Refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises: a main body including an inner case provided with a storage chamber therein, an outer case coupled to the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material foamed between the inner case and the outer case; a door provided to open and close the storage chamber; a hinge device rotatably supporting the door at the outside of the outer case, the hinge device including a hinge shaft forming the rotation axis of the door and a hinge bracket provided to support the hinge shaft; a hinge reinforcing plate coupled to the top wall of the outer case from the inside of the outer case, the hinge reinforcing plate including a bracket fixing portion penetrating insertion holes formed in the top wall of the outer case to fix the hinge bracket at the outside of the outer case; an outer case reinforcing bar extending in one direction along the top wall of the outer case at the inside of the outer case to reinforce the outer case, the outer case reinforcing bar being coupled to the lower side of the hinge reinforcing plate; and a reinforcing plate sealing member for sealing between the top wall of the outer case and the outer case reinforcing bar, at the outside of the hinge reinforcing plate, to prevent the insulating material from leaking to the outside of the outer case through the insertion holes of the outer case, the reinforcing plate sealing member having a seating portion formed on the inside on which at least a portion of the hinge reinforcing plate is seated.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator having an improved structure.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device that maintains food freshness by including a main body having a storage compartment and a cold air supply system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment may include a refrigerator compartment maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius for refrigerated storage of food, and a freezer compartment maintained at approximately 0 to -30 degrees Celsius for frozen storage of food.

[0003] A refrigerator may include an inner case containing a storage compartment and an outer case attached to the outer case. Insulating material is placed between the inner and outer cases for thermal insulation. The insulation may be foamed into a liquid form between the inner and outer cases, and then solidified to form the walls.

[0004] A refrigerator may include a door configured to open and close a storage compartment, and a hinge device that rotatably supports the door. Furthermore, the refrigerator may include a hinge reinforcement plate configured to secure the hinge device. The hinge reinforcement plate may be attached to the upper wall of the outer case from the inner side of the outer case. This configuration allows insulation to flow to the outer side of the hinge reinforcement plate while foaming the insulation between the inner case and the outer case.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator having improved assembly capabilities.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator including a sealing member that prevents insulation from leaking outward from the outer surface while the insulation is foamed between the inner surface and the outer surface.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator comprising a sealing member, at least one portion of which can extend in one direction.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises: a body including an inner case having a storage compartment provided therein, an outer case coupled to an outer side of the inner case, and an insulating material foamed between the inner case and the outer case; a door provided to open and close the storage compartment; a hinge device for rotatably supporting the door from an outer side of the outer case, the hinge device including a hinge shaft forming a rotation axis of the door and a hinge bracket provided to support the hinge shaft; a hinge reinforcing plate coupled to an upper wall of the outer case from an inner side of the outer case, the hinge reinforcing plate including a bracket fixing part penetrating an insertion hole formed in the upper wall of the outer case and fixing the hinge bracket from an outer side of the outer case; an outer reinforcing bar extending in one direction along the upper wall of the outer case from the inner side of the outer case to reinforce the outer case, the outer reinforcing bar coupled to a lower side of the hinge reinforcing plate; and a hinge device for preventing the insulating material from leaking out of the outer case through the insertion hole of the outer case. A reinforcing plate sealing member sealing between the upper wall of the outer surface and the outer reinforcing bar on the outer surface of the reinforcing plate, the reinforcing plate sealing member including a mounting portion formed on the inner surface where at least a portion of the hinge reinforcing plate is mounted.

[0010] A refrigerator according to the invention comprises a body including an inner case having a storage compartment therein and an outer case coupled to an outer side of the inner case, a door provided to open and close the storage compartment, a hinge device for rotatably supporting the door from an outer side of the outer case, the hinge device including a hinge shaft forming a rotation axis of the door and a hinge bracket provided to support the hinge shaft, an outer case reinforcing bar extending in one direction along an upper wall of the outer case from an inner side of the outer case to reinforce the outer case, a hinge reinforcing plate coupled to the upper wall of the outer case from the inner side of the outer case, the hinge reinforcing plate including a plate body disposed between the upper wall of the outer case and the outer case reinforcing bar and a bracket fixing portion that is bent from an edge of the plate body and penetrates an insertion hole formed in the upper wall of the outer case and fixes the hinge bracket from an outer side of the outer case, and a reinforcing plate sealing member provided to seal between the upper wall of the outer case and the outer case reinforcing bar from an outer side of the hinge reinforcing plate. The above reinforcing plate sealing member is formed on the inner side of the reinforcing plate sealing member so that at least a portion of the outer surface of the plate body is covered by the reinforcing plate sealing member, and includes an opening into which the plate body is inserted.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator door in an open state according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a schematic drawing illustrating part of the internal configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of area A shown in Figure 4.

[0016] Figure 6 is an exploded view of a portion of the configuration shown in Figure 4.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a state in which a hinge reinforcement plate according to one embodiment is connected to the upper wall of the outer body.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a state in which a hinge reinforcement plate according to one embodiment is connected to the upper wall of the outer body.

[0019] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a hinge reinforcement plate, a reinforcement plate sealing member, and a trauma reinforcement bar according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a hinge reinforcement plate, a reinforcement plate sealing member, and a trauma reinforcement bar according to one embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' shown in Fig. 7.

[0022] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line C-C' shown in Fig. 7.

[0023] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' shown in Fig. 7.

[0024] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a state in which a hinge reinforcement plate according to one embodiment is connected to the upper wall of the outer body.

[0025] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but rather include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0026] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0027] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0028] In this disclosure, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0029] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0030] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0031] In addition, terms such as 'front', 'rear', 'top', 'bottom', 'side', 'left', 'right', 'upper', and 'lower' used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0032] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0033] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0034] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0035] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a body.

[0036] The "body" may include an inner case, an outer case disposed on the outside of the inner case, and an insulating material provided between the inner case and the outer case.

[0037] The "inner case" may include at least one of a case, a plate, a panel, or a liner forming a storage compartment. The inner case may be formed as a single body, or may be formed by assembling a plurality of plates. The "outer case" may form the outer appearance of the main body, and may be joined to the outer side of the inner case so that insulation is placed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0038] "Insulation" can insulate the interior and exterior of a storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room can be maintained at a set temperature without being affected by the external environment. In one embodiment, the insulation can include foam insulation. The foam insulation can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0039] In one embodiment, the insulation may include a vacuum insulation material in addition to the foam insulation, or the insulation may consist solely of the vacuum insulation material instead of the foam insulation. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under a vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation or vacuum insulation material described above, and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0040] A "storage room" may include a space defined by an interior wall. The storage room may further include an interior wall defining a corresponding space. The storage room may store various items, such as food, medicine, and cosmetics, and the storage room may be configured to be open on at least one side for the entry and exit of items.

[0041] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When a refrigerator includes two or more storage compartments, each compartment may have a different purpose and be maintained at different temperatures. To achieve this, each storage compartment may be separated from the others by a partition wall containing insulation.

[0042] The storage room may be designed to maintain an appropriate temperature range depending on its intended use, and may include a "refrigerator," a "freezer," or a "variable temperature room," which are distinguished by their intended use and / or temperature range. A refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for refrigerating items, and a freezer may be maintained at a temperature appropriate for freezing items. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling items to a temperature that does not freeze them, and for example, a refrigerator may be maintained at a temperature ranging from 0 degrees Celsius to +7 degrees Celsius. "Freezing" may mean cooling items to freeze them or keep them frozen, and for example, a freezer may be maintained at a temperature ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. A variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator or a freezer, at the user's option or not.

[0043] In addition to names such as "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room," a storage room may also be called by various other names such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice room." The terms "refrigerator," "freezer," and "variable temperature room" used hereinafter should be understood to encompass storage rooms having corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0044] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include at least one door configured to open and close an open side of a storage compartment. The door may be configured to open and close one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be configured to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed on the front of the main body in a pivotal or sliding manner.

[0045] The "door" may be configured to seal the storage compartment when the door is closed. The door may include insulation, similar to the body, to insulate the storage compartment when the door is closed.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the back of the door and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided on the interior of these.

[0047] The door inner panel may be provided with a gasket that seals the storage compartment by contacting the front of the body when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to accommodate a door basket for storing items.

[0048] In one embodiment, the door may include a door body and a front panel detachably coupled to the front side of the door body and forming the front of the door. The door body may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door body, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door body and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and door insulation provided inside these.

[0049] Depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment, refrigerators can be classified into French door type, side-by-side type, bottom mounted freezer (BMF), top mounted freezer (TMF), or single-door refrigerator.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device configured to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0051] A "cold air supply device" may include a system of machines, devices, electronic devices and / or combinations thereof that can generate cold air and guide the cold air to cool a storage room.

[0052] In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device can include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. In one embodiment, the cold air supply device can include a semiconductor, such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage compartment through heat generation and cooling through the Peltier effect.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a machine room in which at least some components belonging to the cold air supply device are arranged.

[0054] The "machine room" may be designed to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated by components placed within the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to be in communication with the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed within the machine room.

[0055] In one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a dispenser provided on the door to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser may be provided on the door so that it is accessible to a user without having to open the door.

[0056] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include an ice-making device configured to produce ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray configured to store water, an ice-separating device configured to separate ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket configured to store ice produced in the ice-making tray.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0058] The "control unit" may include a memory that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling the refrigerator, and a processor that outputs a control signal for controlling a cold air supply device, etc. according to the program and / or data memorized in the memory.

[0059] Memory stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc. necessary for the operation of the refrigerator. Memory can store temporary data generated during the generation of control signals for controlling components within the refrigerator. Memory may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0060] The processor controls the overall operation of the refrigerator. The processor can control the components of the refrigerator by executing programs stored in memory. The processor may include a separate NPU that performs the operations of an artificial intelligence model. The processor may also include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like. The processor may generate control signals to control the operation of the cooling system. For example, the processor may receive temperature information about the storage compartment from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal to control the operation of the cooling system based on the temperature information.

[0061] Additionally, the processor may process user input of the user interface and control the operation of the user interface based on programs and / or data stored / stored in the memory. The user interface may be provided using an input interface and an output interface. The processor may receive user input from the user interface. Additionally, the processor may transmit display control signals and image data to the user interface for displaying an image on the user interface in response to the user input.

[0062] The processor and memory may be provided as a single unit or separately. The processor may include one or more processors. For example, the processor may include a main processor and at least one subprocessor. The memory may include one or more memories.

[0063] In one embodiment, a refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control all components within the refrigerator, and may include multiple processors and multiple memories that individually control the components within the refrigerator. For example, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control the operation of a cooling device based on the output of a temperature sensor. Additionally, the refrigerator may separately include a processor and memory that control the operation of a user interface based on user input.

[0064] The communication module can communicate with external devices, such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances, via a nearby access point (AP). The AP can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the refrigerator or user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The refrigerator or user device can then connect to the server via the WAN.

[0065] The input interface may include keys, a touchscreen, a microphone, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0066] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface may output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0067] Meanwhile, the terms “front / rear direction,” “left / right direction,” “upper side,” “lower side,” etc. used in the description below are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0068] For example, the X direction can be defined as the forward-backward direction. For example, the Y direction can be defined as the sideways direction. For example, the Z direction can be defined as the up-down direction. For example, the +X direction can be defined as the forward direction and the -X direction can be defined as the backward direction. For example, the +Y direction can be defined as the right direction and the -Y direction can be defined as the left direction. For example, the +Z direction can be defined as the upward direction and the -Z direction can be defined as the downward direction.

[0069] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0070] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator with its door open according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator may include a main body (10), a storage compartment (20) formed inside the main body (10), and a door (30) provided to open and close the storage compartment (20).

[0072] The main body (10) may include an inner case (11) having a storage compartment (20) therein, and an outer case (12) forming the exterior of the refrigerator (1). The outer case (12) may be coupled to the outside of the inner case (11).

[0073] The main body (10) may include an insulating material (19) that is foamed between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12). The insulating material (19) may be foamed in a liquid state between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12) and then formed into a wall in a solidified state. The insulating material (19) may insulate the storage room (20).

[0074] The main body (10) may include a top cover (17) that covers the front upper surface of the main body (10). The top cover (17) may be coupled to the outer side of the outer case (12). The top cover (17) may be provided to cover the upper hinge device (40) and various electrical components arranged on the upper surface of the main body (10).

[0075] A refrigerator (1) may include a cold air supply device that supplies cold air to a storage compartment (20). The cold air supply device may generate cold air using a refrigeration cycle that compresses, condenses, expands, and evaporates a refrigerant. For example, the cold air supply device may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, a blower fan, and a cold air duct.

[0076] The storage room (20) can be divided into a plurality of parts by partitions (15). The partitions (15) can include a first partition (15a) that is horizontally coupled inside the storage room (20) to divide the storage room (20) into an upper storage room (21) and a lower storage room (22), and a second partition (15b) that is vertically coupled to the lower storage room (22) to divide the lower storage room (22) into a first storage room (22a) and a second storage room (22b).

[0077] That is, the partition (15) having a T-shape formed by combining the first partition (15a) and the second partition (15b) can divide the storage room (20) into three spaces. Among the upper storage room (21) and the lower storage room (22) divided by the first partition (15a), the upper storage room (21) can be used as a refrigerator, and the lower storage room (22) can be used as a freezer.

[0078] The entire lower storage compartment (22) can be used as a freezer, but the first storage compartment (22a) can be used as a freezer and the second storage compartment (22b) can be used as a refrigerator, or the first storage compartment (22a) can be used as a freezer and the second storage compartment (22b) can be used as both a freezer and a refrigerator.

[0079] The division of the storage room (20) as described above is only an example, and the upper storage room (21) and the lower storage room (22) can be used differently from the above configuration, and the first storage room (22a) and the second storage room (22b) can also be used differently from the above configuration.

[0080] Inside the storage room (20), a plurality of shelves (23) and storage containers (24) can be provided to store food, etc.

[0081] The storage room (20) can be opened and closed by a door (30) that is rotatably coupled to the main body (10). Specifically, the front of the storage room (20) can be provided to be open, and the door (30) can open and close the open front of the storage room (20).

[0082] The door (30) may include an upper door (31) that is rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close the upper storage chamber (21), and a lower door (32) that is rotatably coupled to the main body (10) to open and close the lower storage chamber (22).

[0083] The upper door (31) may include a first upper door (31a) and a second upper door (31b). The first upper door (31a) and the second upper door (31b) may each be rotatably supported by an upper hinge device (40). Specifically, the first upper door (31a) may be rotatably supported by the first upper hinge device (40a), and the second upper door (31b) may be rotatably supported by the second upper hinge device (40b, see FIG. 4).

[0084] In this document, the upper hinge device (40), the first upper hinge device (40a), and the second upper hinge device (40b) may be referred to as the hinge device (40), the first hinge device (40a), and the second hinge device (40b), respectively.

[0085] The lower door (32) may include a first lower door (32a) and a second lower door (32b). The first lower door (32a) can open and close the first storage compartment (22a), and the second lower door (32b) can open and close the second storage compartment (22b).

[0086] The first lower door (32a) and the second lower door (32b) may each be rotatably supported by a lower hinge (50). Specifically, the first lower door (32a) may be rotatably supported by a first lower hinge device (50a), and the second lower door (32b) may be rotatably supported by a second lower hinge device (not shown).

[0087] A plurality of door guards (33) for storing food, etc. can be installed on the back of the door (30).

[0088] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the internal configuration of a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is an enlarged diagram illustrating area A shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is an exploded diagram illustrating a portion of the configuration shown in FIG. 4.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the refrigerator (1) may include a trauma reinforcement bar (60) provided to reinforce the outer case (12). The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may be provided on the inner side of the outer case (12). The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may be positioned between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12). The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may be positioned below the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12). The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may be positioned adjacent to the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12).

[0090] The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may extend in one direction along the upper wall (12a) of the trauma (12). For example, the trauma reinforcement bar (60) may extend in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may be arranged parallel to the upper wall (12a) of the trauma.

[0091] One end of the trauma reinforcement bar (60) may be provided adjacent to one side wall of the trauma (12), and the other end of the trauma reinforcement bar (60) may be provided adjacent to the other side wall of the trauma (12). The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may include a metal material having rigidity. The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may be fixed to the trauma (12) together with a hinge reinforcement plate (100) and a reinforcement plate sealing member (200) to be described later. Through this configuration, the trauma reinforcement bar (60) may prevent the trauma (12) from bending.

[0092] The refrigerator (1) may include a hinge reinforcement plate (100). The hinge reinforcement plate (100) may be provided to secure the upper hinge device (40). The hinge reinforcement plate (100) may be coupled to the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12) on the inner side of the outer case (12). The hinge reinforcement plate (100) may be positioned on the outer case reinforcement bar (60).

[0093] The refrigerator (1) may include a reinforcing plate sealing member (200). The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be provided to seal between the outer surface (12) and the outer reinforcement bar (60) on the outer side of the hinge reinforcing plate (100).

[0094] The hinge reinforcement plate (100) may include a first hinge reinforcement plate (100a) and a second hinge reinforcement plate (100b), and the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) may include a first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a) and a second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b). The first hinge reinforcement plate (100a) and the first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a) may be arranged on one end of the trauma reinforcement bar (60) based on the direction in which the trauma reinforcement bar (60) extends. The second hinge reinforcement plate (100b) and the second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b) may be arranged on the other end of the trauma reinforcement bar (60) based on the direction in which the trauma reinforcement bar (60) extends.

[0095] The first hinge reinforcement plate (100a) may be provided to secure the first upper hinge device (40a). The first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a) may seal between the outer surface (12) and one end of the outer reinforcement bar (60).

[0096] The second hinge reinforcement plate (100b) may be provided to secure the second upper hinge device (40b). The second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b) may seal between the outer surface (12) and the other end of the outer reinforcement bar (60).

[0097] The first hinge reinforcement plate (100a), the first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a), the first upper hinge device (40a), and the first upper door (31a) may have substantially the same configuration, structure, and characteristics as the second hinge reinforcement plate (100b), the second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b), the second upper hinge device (40b), and the second upper door (31b), respectively. Therefore, for convenience of explanation, the first hinge reinforcement plate (100a), the first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a), the first upper hinge device (40a), and the first upper door (31a) will be described below, but a detailed description of the second hinge reinforcement plate (100b), the second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b), the second upper hinge device (40b), and the second upper door (31b) may be omitted. In addition, hereinafter, the first hinge reinforcement plate (100a), the first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a), the first upper hinge device (40a), and the first upper door (31a) may be referred to as the hinge reinforcement plate (100), the reinforcement plate sealing member (200), the upper hinge device (40), and the upper door (31), respectively.

[0098] A reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be provided between the outer surface (12) and the outer reinforcing bar (60). In other words, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be mounted on the outer reinforcing bar (60). A hinge reinforcing plate (100) may be mounted on the reinforcing plate sealing member (200).

[0099] Specifically, the first reinforcing plate sealing member (200a) can be mounted on one end of the trauma reinforcing bar (60) based on the direction in which the trauma reinforcing bar (60) extends. The first hinge reinforcing plate (100a) can be mounted on the first reinforcing plate sealing member (200a).

[0100] Specifically, the second reinforcing plate sealing member (200b) can be mounted on the other end of the trauma reinforcing bar (60) based on the direction in which the trauma reinforcing bar (60) extends. The second hinge reinforcing plate (100b) can be mounted on the second reinforcing plate sealing member (200b).

[0101] The trauma reinforcement bar (60), the hinge reinforcement plate (100), and the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) can be integrated through a pressing process. That is, by performing the pressing process while the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) is secured on the trauma reinforcement bar (60) and the hinge reinforcement plate (100) is secured on the reinforcement plate sealing member (200), the trauma reinforcement bar (60), the hinge reinforcement plate (100), and the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) can be integrated. Specifically, the joint projection provided on the hinge reinforcement plate (100) is fitted into the joint hole provided on the trauma reinforcement bar (60) by a pressing process, so that the trauma reinforcement bar (60) can be coupled to the lower side of the hinge reinforcement plate (100), and the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) is fixed between the hinge reinforcement plate (100) and the trauma reinforcement bar (60), so that the trauma reinforcement bar (60), the hinge reinforcement plate (100), and the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) can be integrated.

[0102] As described above, a first hinge reinforcement plate (100a) and a first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a) may be arranged on one end of the trauma reinforcement bar (60), and a second hinge reinforcement plate (100b) and a second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b) may be arranged on the other end of the trauma reinforcement bar (60). At this time, the first hinge reinforcement plate (100a), the first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a), the second hinge reinforcement plate (200b), and the second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b) may be integrated with the trauma reinforcement bar (60) by performing a pressing process. Through this configuration, the first hinge reinforcement plate (100a), the first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a), the second hinge reinforcement plate (200b), the second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b), and the external reinforcement bar (60) can be assembled at one time, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the refrigerator (1). In addition, since the distance between the positions where the first hinge reinforcement plate (100a) and the first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a) are arranged and the positions where the second hinge reinforcement plate (200b) and the second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b) are arranged is maintained constant, it can be easy to assemble the hinge reinforcement plate (100a), the first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a), the second hinge reinforcement plate (200b), and the second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b) in their respective correct positions.

[0103] The integrated trauma reinforcement bar (60), hinge reinforcement plate (100), and reinforcement plate sealing member (200) can be fixed to the trauma (12) through a separate fastening member (S). For example, the integrated trauma reinforcement bar (60), hinge reinforcement plate (100), and reinforcement plate sealing member (200) can be fixed to the trauma (12) through a riveting process.

[0104] The hinge reinforcement plate (100) may include a plate body (110). The plate body (110) may be placed between the upper wall (12a) of the outer body (12) and the outer reinforcement bar (60).

[0105] The hinge reinforcement plate (100) may include a bracket fixing portion (120) provided to fix the upper hinge device (40). The bracket fixing portion (120) may protrude from the upper surface of the plate body (110). The bracket fixing portion (120) may penetrate an insertion hole (12b) formed in an upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12), so that at least a portion of the bracket fixing portion (120) may be disposed on the outer side of the outer case (12). The bracket fixing portion (120) may fix a hinge bracket (42, 43) to be described later on the outer side of the outer case (12). In order to easily insert the bracket fixing portion (120) into the insertion hole (12b), the open area of ​​the insertion hole (12b) may be larger than the horizontal cross-sectional area of ​​the bracket fixing portion (120a).

[0106] Specifically, the bracket fixing portion (120) may be bent and extended upward from the edge of the plate body (110). The insertion hole (12b) of the outer body (12) may be provided at a position corresponding to the bracket fixing portion (120).

[0107] The bracket fixing part (120) may include a first bracket fixing part (121), a second bracket fixing part (122), and a third bracket fixing part (123). The first bracket fixing part (121) may protrude from the left end of the plate body (110). The second bracket fixing part (122) may protrude from the right end of the plate body (110). The third bracket fixing part (123) may protrude from the rear end of the plate body (110).

[0108] The insertion hole (12b) of the external part (12) may include a first insertion hole (12ba), a second insertion hole (12bb), and a third insertion hole (12bc). The first insertion hole (12ba) may be provided at a position corresponding to the first bracket fixing part (121) so that the first bracket fixing part (121) may be inserted therein. The second insertion hole (12bb) may be provided at a position corresponding to the second bracket fixing part (122) so that the second bracket fixing part (122) may be inserted therein. The third insertion hole (12bc) may be provided at a position corresponding to the third bracket fixing part (123) so that the third bracket fixing part (123) may be inserted therein.

[0109] The hinge device (40) may be placed on the outside of the outer case (12). Specifically, the hinge device (40) may be placed on the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12). The hinge device (40) may be covered by a top cover (17).

[0110] The hinge device (40) may include a hinge shaft (41) and a first hinge bracket (42). The hinge shaft (41) may form a rotation axis of the upper door (31). The first hinge bracket (42) may be provided to support the hinge shaft (41).

[0111] The hinge shaft (41) can be coupled to a bracket hole (42a) formed in the front end of the first hinge bracket (42). The hinge shaft (41) can extend downward from the bracket hole (42a). The hinge shaft (41) can be provided in a cylindrical shape with a hollow space formed therein.

[0112] At least a portion of the hinge shaft (41) can be inserted into a hinge connector (39) provided in the upper door (31). Through this configuration, the upper door (31) can rotate about the hinge shaft (41) and the hinge connector (39) as an axis.

[0113] The first hinge bracket (42) may include a protrusion (42b) that protrudes rearward from the rear end of the first hinge bracket (42). The protrusion (42b) may be configured to be inserted into a fixing hole (123a) formed in the third bracket fixing part (123). By inserting the protrusion (42b) into the fixing hole (123a), the first hinge bracket (42) may be placed in the correct position.

[0114] The hinge device (40) may include a second hinge bracket (43) provided to secure the first hinge bracket (42). The second hinge bracket (43) may be positioned on the upper side of the first hinge bracket (42).

[0115] The second hinge bracket (43) may include a first fixing protrusion (43a) and a second fixing protrusion (43b). The first fixing protrusion (43a) may protrude from the left end of the second hinge bracket (43), and the second fixing protrusion (43b) may protrude from the right end of the second hinge bracket (43). The first fixing protrusion (43a) may be inserted into a first fixing groove (121a) formed in the first bracket fixing portion (121), and the second fixing protrusion (43b) may be inserted into a second fixing groove (122a) formed in the second bracket fixing portion (122). Through this configuration, the second hinge bracket (43) may be fixed in a state of being coupled to the hinge reinforcement plate (100).

[0116] The second hinge bracket (43) may include a pressing portion (43c) configured to press downwardly the first hinge bracket (42). The pressing portion (43c) may be formed by bending a portion of the second hinge bracket (43). The pressing portion (43c) may press downwardly the rear end of the first hinge bracket (42). Through this configuration, the first hinge bracket (42) may be fixed.

[0117] The hinge device (40) may include a spacer (44). The spacer (44) may be disposed between the first hinge bracket (42) and the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12). The spacer (44) may have a flat plate shape to space the first hinge bracket (42) and the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12). The first hinge bracket (42) may be disposed on the spacer (44) to maintain a horizontal state. Accordingly, interference between the hinge shaft (41) and the hinge connector (39) that may occur when the first hinge bracket (42) deviates from the horizontal state may be prevented.

[0118] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a hinge reinforcement plate according to one embodiment is coupled to an upper wall of a case. FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a hinge reinforcement plate according to one embodiment is coupled to an upper wall of a case. FIG. 9 is an exploded drawing illustrating a hinge reinforcement plate, a reinforcement plate sealing member, and a case reinforcement bar according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is an exploded drawing illustrating a hinge reinforcement plate, a reinforcement plate sealing member, and a case reinforcement bar according to one embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' in FIG. 7. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C' in FIG. 7. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D' in FIG. 7.

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 13, a reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be provided on the outer side of the hinge reinforcing plate (100). The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may seal between the upper wall (12a) of the outer side (12) and the outer reinforcing bar (60) on the outer side of the hinge reinforcing plate (100).

[0120] As described above, the insulation (19) may be foamed in a liquid state between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12). At this time, the bracket fixing part (120) of the hinge reinforcement plate (100) may be inserted into the insertion hole (12b) formed in the outer case (12), and the open area of ​​the insertion hole (12b) may be larger than the horizontal cross-sectional area of ​​the bracket fixing part (120). Therefore, even if the bracket fixing part (120) is inserted into the insertion hole (12b), the insertion hole (12b) may not be closed by the bracket fixing part (120), and thus a space in which the insulation (19) can flow may remain. If the insulation (19) flows through the space, the insulation (19) may leak outward from the outer case (12).

[0121] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the insertion hole (12b) of the outer case (12) may be provided at a position corresponding to the bracket fixing portion (120), and the bracket fixing portion (120) may be bent and extended upward from the edge of the plate body (110). At this time, since the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) seals between the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12) and the outer case reinforcing bar (60) on the outside of the hinge reinforcing plate (100), the flow of the insulating material (19) into the insertion hole (12b) may be restricted by the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). That is, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can prevent the insulating material (19) from leaking outward of the outer case (12) through the insertion hole (12b).

[0122] At least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may extend in a direction parallel to the outer reinforcing bar (60). In other words, at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may extend in a direction parallel to the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12). As the length by which at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) extends becomes longer, the flow of the liquid insulating material (19) into the insertion hole (12b) will be more restricted, thereby more effectively preventing the insulating material (19) from leaking outward from the outer case (12) through the insertion hole (12b).

[0123] For example, at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may extend between the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall (12) and the outer reinforcing bar (60) in the direction in which the outer reinforcing bar (60) extends (Y-axis direction). For example, at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may extend in a direction that intersects the direction in which the outer reinforcing bar (60) extends and is parallel to the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall (12).

[0124] There is no particular limitation on the length by which at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) extends. Therefore, during the manufacturing process of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), the length by which at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) extends can be adjusted to suit the surrounding configuration, such as the hinge reinforcing plate (100) or the external reinforcing bar (60). In addition, during the manufacturing process of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), the length by which at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) extends can be adjusted to improve the sealing effect of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). That is, the size or shape of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be adjusted to suit the surrounding configuration or to secure a relatively high sealing effect.

[0125] At least a portion of the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be formed flat. Specifically, a portion of the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) excluding the receiving groove (220) and the seating portion (240) described later may be formed flat. In addition, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may have a thickness corresponding to the vertical distance between the upper wall (12a) of the outer surface (12) and the outer reinforcement bar (60).

[0126] Through this configuration, at least a portion of the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be in full contact with the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall (12), or be spaced apart from it by a small distance. That is, the space between the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall and the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be minimized. Accordingly, the sealing effect by the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be relatively improved.

[0127] In addition, through this configuration, it can be made easy to attach a separate sealing member, such as a sponge, to the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). By attaching a separate sealing member to the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), the sealing effect can be further improved.

[0128] The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include a plurality of receiving grooves (220) formed on the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). The receiving grooves (220) may be formed by being sunken in the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). The receiving grooves (220) may be provided to receive a liquid insulating material (19) flowing between the upper wall (12a) of the outer surface (12) and the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). That is, even if the insulation (19) flows between the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall (12) and the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) while the insulation (19) is being foamed between the inner wall (11) and the outer wall (12), the insulation (19) can be accommodated inside the accommodation groove (220), so the insulation (19) can be restricted from flowing to the insertion hole (12b).

[0129] The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include a plurality of partition walls (230) formed on the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). The plurality of partition walls (230) may each partition a plurality of receiving grooves (220).

[0130] The plurality of bulkheads (230) may have a certain pattern. For example, the plurality of bulkheads (230) may have a grid shape.

[0131] The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include a mounting portion (240) on which at least a portion of the hinge reinforcing plate (100) is mounted. The mounting portion (240) may be formed on the inner side of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). The mounting portion (240) may be formed by being recessed in the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200).

[0132] The mounting portion (240) may include a first mounting portion (241) and a second mounting portion (242). One end of the hinge reinforcing plate (100) may be mounted on the first mounting portion (241). The other end of the hinge reinforcing plate (100) may be mounted on the second mounting portion (242). For example, the first mounting portion (241) may be provided at the rear end of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), and the rear end of the hinge reinforcing plate (100) may be mounted on the first mounting portion (241). For example, the second mounting portion (242) may be provided at the rear end of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), and the front end of the hinge reinforcing plate (100) may be mounted on the second mounting portion (242).

[0133] The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include a plurality of receiving grooves (242a) formed on the second mounting portion (242). The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include a plurality of partition walls (242b) that partition each of the plurality of receiving grooves (242a). The receiving grooves (242a) and the plurality of partition walls (242b) formed on the second mounting portion (242) have substantially the same structure and characteristics as the receiving grooves (220) and the plurality of partition walls (230) formed on the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), and therefore, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0134] The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include an opening (250) formed on the inner side of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). The opening (250) may be formed between a first mounting portion (241) and a second mounting portion (242). In other words, the first mounting portion (241) may be provided on one side of the opening (250), and the second mounting portion (242) may be provided on the other side of the opening (250).

[0135] At least a portion of the hinge reinforcement plate (100) can be inserted into the opening (250). Specifically, the plate body (110) of the hinge reinforcement plate (100) can be inserted into the opening (250). When the plate body (110) is inserted into the opening (250), the hinge reinforcement plate (100) can be seated on the mounting portion (240).

[0136] By inserting the plate body (110) into the opening (250), at least a portion of the outer surface of the plate body (110) can be covered by the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). That is, by inserting the plate body (110) into the opening (250), the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can surround the plate body (110). Through this configuration, while the insulating material (19) is foamed between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12), the flow of the insulating material (19) toward the plate body (110) can be restricted, and leakage of the insulating material (19) through the insertion hole (12b) of the outer case (12) can be more effectively prevented.

[0137] The opening (250) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the plate body (110). Due to this configuration, it may be easy to secure the hinge reinforcement plate (100) to the reinforcement plate sealing member (200). In addition, when the hinge reinforcement plate (100) is secured to the securing portion (240), movement of the hinge reinforcement plate (100) in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) may be restricted.

[0138] When the plate body (110) is inserted into the opening (250), the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be formed at the same height as the upper surface of the plate body (110) or at a lower height. Through this configuration, the upper surface of the plate body (110) can be in complete contact with the upper wall (12a) of the outer surface (12).

[0139] As described above, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be mounted on the external reinforcing bar (60). At this time, the bottom surface (260) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be in contact with the external reinforcing bar (60).

[0140] The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may include a first bent portion (60a) that is bent and extends downward from an edge of the trauma reinforcement bar (60). The reinforcement plate sealing member (200) may include a second bent portion (270) that is bent and extends downward from an edge of a bottom surface (260) of the reinforcement plate sealing member (200). The second bent portion (270) of the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) may be provided in a shape corresponding to the first bent portion (60a) of the trauma reinforcement bar (60). Through this configuration, the second bent portion (270) may be seated on the first bent portion (60a), and the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) may be seated more stably on the trauma reinforcement bar (60).

[0141] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) includes a bent portion (270) formed on the bottom surface (260) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), so that it can be easily installed in the correct position on the external reinforcement bar (60). In addition, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) includes a fixing portion (240) and an opening (250) formed on the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), so that it can be easily installed in the correct position on the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). That is, due to the above-described structural features of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), it can be easier to assemble the external reinforcement bar (60), the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), and the hinge reinforcing plate (100).

[0142] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be formed by injection molding a resin material. However, there is no particular limitation on the material of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200). For example, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include an elastic material.

[0143] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13, the principle by which the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) restricts the flow of the insulation material (19) to the insertion hole (12b) will be examined.

[0144] Referring to Fig. 11, a portion of a reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be provided on one side of a first bracket fixing member (121) penetrating a first insertion hole (12ba). Another portion of a reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be provided on one side of a second bracket fixing member (122) penetrating a second insertion hole (12bb). At this time, the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be in complete contact with the inner surface of the upper wall (12a) of the outer surface (12), or may be spaced apart from it by a small distance. Accordingly, the liquid insulation (19) may be restricted from flowing to the first insertion hole (12ba) or the second insertion hole (12bb).

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, another portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be provided on the outer side of the third bracket fixing member (123) penetrating the third insertion hole (12bc). At this time, the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be in complete contact with the inner surface of the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12), or may be spaced apart from it by a small distance. Accordingly, the liquid insulation (19) may be restricted from flowing to the third insertion hole (12bc).

[0146] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a state in which a hinge reinforcement plate according to one embodiment is coupled to the upper wall of the outer body.

[0147] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 14, a reinforcing plate sealing member (200') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In describing the reinforcing plate sealing member (200'), the same member numbers are assigned to components that are substantially the same as those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 13, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0148] Referring to Fig. 14, at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200') may extend in the same direction as the direction in which the trauma reinforcement bar (60) extends. For example, the right portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200') may extend in the same direction as the direction in which the trauma reinforcement bar (60) extends. In this case, the length (L2) along which the right portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200') illustrated in Fig. 14 extends may be different from the length (L1) along which the right portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 13 extends.

[0149] As described above, during the manufacturing process of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200'), the length by which at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200') extends can be adjusted to suit the surrounding configuration, such as the hinge reinforcing plate (100) or the external reinforcing bar (60). In addition, during the manufacturing process of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200'), the length by which at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200') extends can be adjusted to improve the sealing effect of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200'). For example, since the reinforcing plate sealing member (200') illustrated in FIG. 14 has a right side that extends longer than the reinforcing plate sealing members (200) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 13, the sealing effect of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200') can be further improved.

[0150] However, there are no special restrictions on the size or shape of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200'). As described above, the size or shape of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200') may be adjusted to suit the surrounding configuration or to secure a relatively high sealing effect.

[0151] In the above, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14, an embodiment in which the first reinforcing plate sealing member (200a) and the second reinforcing plate sealing member (200b) are provided separately has been described. However, depending on the embodiment, the first reinforcing plate sealing member (200a) and the second reinforcing plate sealing member (200b) may be provided integrally. In this case, the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may be extended by the length of the external reinforcing bar (60) along the direction in which the external reinforcing bar (60) extends (Y-axis direction) and may be seated on the external reinforcing bar (60).

[0152] The reinforcing plate sealing member (200) including a plurality of receiving grooves (220) and a plurality of partition walls (230) has been described above. However, depending on the embodiment, the plurality of receiving grooves and the plurality of partition walls may be omitted. In this case, the portion of the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member, excluding the mounting portion, may be formed flat. In other words, the portion formed flat on the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member may be relatively wide.

[0153] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment comprises a main body (10) including an inner case (11) having a storage compartment (20) therein, an outer case (12) coupled to the outer side of the inner case (11), and an insulating material (19) foamed between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12), a door (30) provided to open and close the storage compartment (20), a hinge device (40) that rotatably supports the door (30) from the outer side of the outer case (12), the hinge device (40) including a hinge shaft (41) forming a rotation axis of the door (30) and a hinge bracket (42) provided to support the hinge shaft (41), a hinge reinforcing plate (100) coupled to an upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12) from the inner side of the outer case (12), the hinge reinforcing plate (100) penetrating through an insertion hole (12b) formed in the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12) and A hinge reinforcing plate (100) including a bracket fixing part (120) for fixing the hinge bracket (42) on the outside of the outer case (12), a reinforcing bar (60) extending in one direction along the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12) on the inside of the outer case (12) to reinforce the outer case (12), the reinforcing bar (60) being coupled to the lower side of the hinge reinforcing plate (100), and a reinforcing plate sealing member (200) for sealing between the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12) and the reinforcing bar (60) on the outside of the hinge reinforcing plate (100) to prevent the insulating material (19) from leaking out of the outer case (12) through the insertion hole (12b) of the outer case (12), the hinge reinforcing plate (100) having a fixing part (240) formed on the inside where at least a part of the hinge reinforcing plate (100) is fixed. Includes a reinforcing plate sealing member (200).

[0154] At least a portion of the above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can extend along the above direction between the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall (12) and the outer reinforcing bar (60).

[0155] At least a portion of the upper surface (210) of the above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be formed flat.

[0156] The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include a plurality of receiving grooves (220) formed on the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) to receive the insulating material (19) introduced between the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall (12) and the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200).

[0157] The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may further include a plurality of partition walls (230) that partition each of the plurality of receiving grooves (220).

[0158] The above plurality of bulkheads (230) may have a grid shape.

[0159] The above-mentioned fixing portion (240) can be formed by being sunken into the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200).

[0160] The above-mentioned fixing portion (240) may include a first fixing portion (241) on which one end of the hinge reinforcement plate (100) is fixed, and a second fixing portion (242) on which the other end of the hinge reinforcement plate (100) is fixed.

[0161] The above hinge reinforcement plate (100) may further include a plate body (110) disposed between the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall (12) and the outer reinforcement bar (60). The bracket fixing portion (120) may be bent and extended upward from the edge of the plate body (110). The reinforcement plate sealing member (200) may include an opening (250) formed on the inside of the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) so that the plate body (110) may be inserted.

[0162] The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may further include a plurality of receiving grooves (242a) formed on the second mounting portion (242), and a plurality of partition walls (242b) dividing each of the plurality of receiving grooves (242a).

[0163] The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be placed on one end of the trauma reinforcing bar (60) based on the above one direction.

[0164] The trauma reinforcement bar (60) may include a first bent portion (60a) that is bent and extends downward from an edge of the trauma reinforcement bar (60). The reinforcement plate sealing member (200) may include a second bent portion (270) that is bent and extends downward from an edge of a bottom surface (260) of the reinforcement plate sealing member (200) and is seated on the first bent portion (60a) of the trauma reinforcement bar (60).

[0165] The above hinge reinforcement plate (100) may be a first hinge reinforcement plate (100a). The above reinforcement plate sealing member (200) may be a first reinforcement plate sealing member (200a). The above refrigerator (1) may further include a second reinforcement plate sealing member (200b) mounted on the other end of the external reinforcement bar (60) with respect to the one direction, and a second hinge reinforcement plate (100b) mounted on the second reinforcement plate sealing member (200).

[0166] The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) can be formed by injection molding.

[0167] The above hinge reinforcement plate (100) may further include a plate body (110) arranged between the upper wall (12a) of the outer wall (12) and the outer reinforcement bar (60). The bracket fixing portion (120) may be bent and extended upward from the edge of the plate body (110). The insertion hole (12b) of the outer wall (12) may be provided at a position corresponding to the bracket fixing portion (120).

[0168] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment comprises a main body (10) including an inner case (11) having a storage compartment (20) therein and an outer case (12) coupled to the outer side of the inner case (11), a door (30) provided to open and close the storage compartment (20), a hinge device (40) that rotatably supports the door (30) from the outer side of the outer case (12), the hinge device (40) including a hinge shaft (41) forming a rotation axis of the door (30) and a hinge bracket (42) provided to support the hinge shaft (41), a case reinforcing bar (60) extending in one direction along an upper wall (12a) of the case (12) from the inner side of the case (12) to reinforce the case (12), and a hinge reinforcing plate (100) coupled to the upper wall (12a) of the case (12) from the inner side of the case (12), A hinge reinforcement plate (100) including a plate body (110) disposed between an upper wall (12a) of a case (12) and the case reinforcement bar (60), a bracket fixing part (120) that is bent from an edge of the plate body (110) and penetrates an insertion hole (12b) formed in the upper wall (12a) of the case (12), and fixes the hinge bracket (42) on the outside of the case (12), and a reinforcing plate sealing member (200) provided to seal between the upper wall (12a) of the case (12) and the case reinforcement bar (60) on the outside of the hinge reinforcement plate (100). The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) is formed on the inner side of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) so that at least a portion of the outer surface of the plate body (110) is covered by the reinforcing plate sealing member (200), and includes an opening (250) into which the plate body (110) is inserted.

[0169] The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may further include a seating portion (240) formed by being sunken into the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) so that at least a portion of the plate body (110) is seated therein.

[0170] The above-mentioned fixing portion (240) may include a first fixing portion (241) provided on one side of the opening (250) so that one end of the plate body (110) is fixed, and a second fixing portion (242) provided on the other side of the opening (250) so that the other end of the plate body (110) is fixed.

[0171] The above body (10) may further include an insulating material (19) that is foamed between the inner case (11) and the outer case (12). The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may include a plurality of receiving grooves (220) formed on the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200) to receive the insulating material (19) that flows between the upper wall (12a) of the outer case (12) and the upper surface (210) of the reinforcing plate sealing member (200).

[0172] The above reinforcing plate sealing member (200) may further include a plurality of partition walls (230) that partition each of the plurality of receiving grooves (220). The plurality of partition walls (230) may have a grid shape.

[0173] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the reinforcing plate sealing member of the refrigerator includes a fixing portion, an opening, a bending portion, etc., so that the process of fixing the reinforcing plate sealing member in the correct position on the external reinforcing bar and fixing the hinge reinforcing plate in the correct position on the reinforcing plate sealing member can be facilitated. In other words, the assembly of the external reinforcing bar, the reinforcing plate sealing member, and the hinge reinforcing plate can be facilitated.

[0174] According to the concept of the present disclosure, since the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member is provided parallel to the upper wall of the outer case, the gap between the upper wall of the outer case and the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member can be minimized, thereby relatively improving the sealing effect. In addition, since a plurality of receiving grooves are formed on the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member, the insulating material introduced between the upper wall of the outer case and the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member during the foaming process of the insulating material can be received in the plurality of receiving grooves. In other words, the reinforcing plate sealing member can prevent the insulating material from leaking outward from the outer case through the insertion holes formed in the outer case while the insulating material is foamed between the inner case and the outer case.

[0175] According to the concept of the present disclosure, at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member may extend in one direction. For example, at least a portion of the reinforcing plate sealing member may extend in a direction parallel to the upper wall of the outer surface, or in a direction parallel to the outer surface reinforcement bar. In this case, there is no particular limitation on the length of extension of the reinforcing plate sealing member. Therefore, during the manufacturing process of the reinforcing plate sealing member, the size and shape of the reinforcing plate sealing member may be adjusted to suit surrounding configurations, such as a hinge reinforcing plate or an outer surface reinforcement bar, or may be adjusted to secure a higher sealing effect.

[0176] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A main body including an inner case having a storage room therein, an outer case coupled to the outer side of the inner case, and an insulating material foamed between the inner case and the outer case; A door provided to open and close the above storage room; A hinge device that rotatably supports the door from the outside of the above-mentioned trauma, the hinge device including a hinge shaft forming a rotational axis of the door and a hinge bracket provided to support the hinge shaft; A hinge reinforcement plate that is coupled to the upper wall of the outer surface of the outer surface from the inner side of the outer surface, and includes a bracket fixing portion that penetrates an insertion hole formed in the upper wall of the outer surface of the outer surface and fixes the hinge bracket from the outer side of the outer surface; A trauma reinforcement bar extending in one direction along the upper wall of the trauma from the inside of the trauma to reinforce the trauma, the trauma reinforcement bar being coupled to the lower side of the hinge reinforcement plate; and A refrigerator comprising a reinforcing plate sealing member that seals between the upper wall of the outer case and the outer case reinforcement bar on the outer side of the hinge reinforcing plate, in order to prevent the insulating material from leaking outward through the insertion hole of the outer case, and a reinforcing plate sealing member having a mounting portion formed on the inner side where at least a portion of the hinge reinforcing plate is mounted.

2. In paragraph 1, At least a portion of the above reinforcing plate sealing member, A refrigerator extending along the one direction between the upper wall of the above-mentioned trauma and the above-mentioned trauma reinforcement bar.

3. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which at least a portion of the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member is formed flat.

4. In paragraph 1, The above reinforcing plate sealing member is, A refrigerator comprising a plurality of receiving grooves formed on the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member to receive insulating material introduced between the upper wall of the outer surface and the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member.

5. In paragraph 4, A refrigerator in which the above reinforcing plate sealing member further includes a plurality of partition walls that partition each of the plurality of receiving grooves.

6. In paragraph 5, A refrigerator in which the above plurality of bulkheads have a grid shape.

7. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned fixing portion is formed by being sunken into the upper surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member.

8. In paragraph 7, The above-mentioned fixing part is, A first fixing portion on which one end of the above hinge reinforcement plate is fixed; and A refrigerator including a second fixing portion on which the other end of the hinge reinforcement plate is fixed.

9. In paragraph 1, The above hinge reinforcement plate further includes a plate body disposed between the upper wall of the above trauma and the above trauma reinforcement bar, The above bracket fixing portion is bent and extends upward from the edge of the plate body, The above reinforcing plate sealing member is, A refrigerator including an opening formed on the inside of the reinforcing plate sealing member so that the plate body is inserted.

10. In paragraph 8, The above reinforcing plate sealing member is, A plurality of receiving grooves formed on the second mounting portion; and A refrigerator further comprising a plurality of partition walls that partition each of the plurality of receiving grooves.

11. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the above reinforcing plate sealing member is mounted on one end of the above outer reinforcing bar based on the above one direction.

12. In paragraph 11, The above trauma reinforcement bar is, It includes a first bent portion that is bent and extends downward from the edge of the above trauma reinforcement bar, The above reinforcing plate sealing member is, A refrigerator including a second bent portion that extends downwardly and is bent from the edge of the bottom surface of the reinforcing plate sealing member and is seated on the first bent portion of the external reinforcing bar.

13. In paragraph 11, The above hinge reinforcement plate is a first hinge reinforcement plate, The above reinforcing plate sealing member is a first reinforcing plate sealing member, The above refrigerator, A second reinforcing plate sealing member mounted on the other end of the trauma reinforcement bar based on the above one direction; and A refrigerator further comprising a second hinge reinforcement plate mounted on the second reinforcement plate sealing member.

14. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the above reinforcing plate sealing member is formed by injection molding.

15. In paragraph 1, The above hinge reinforcement plate further includes a plate body disposed between the upper wall of the above trauma and the above trauma reinforcement bar, The above bracket fixing portion is bent and extends upward from the edge of the plate body, A refrigerator in which the above insertion hole of the above trauma is provided at a position corresponding to the above bracket fixing part.

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