Refrigerator

Abstract

The refrigerator of the present disclosure comprises: a cabinet having a storage compartment opened forward; a door body disposed in front of the cabinet to open / close the storage compartment, the door body including a side decoration and a rear panel coupled to the side decoration and facing rearward; and a door panel coupled to the front surface of the door body. The door panel comprises: a rear surface facing the front surface of the door body; and a magnet attached to the rear surface. The side decoration comprises: a side wall providing a side surface of the door body; and a front portion extending inward in the width direction of the door body from the side wall. The magnet is coupled to the front portion of the side decoration by magnetic force.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to a refrigerator having a door panel.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device that supplies cold air to a storage space to keep food and ingredients stored in the storage space fresh.

[0003] The above refrigerator includes a door that opens to allow a user to access the storage space and closes to prevent the escape of cold air.

[0004] Additionally, doors are equipped with insulation inside for thermal insulation. Typically, foam is injected into the space inside the door, and the foam expands, filling the door with insulation. During the insulation filling process, thin panels may deform.

[0005] Recently, in addition to the essential function of keeping food and other items fresh, user convenience and aesthetic design have become important factors in consumers' choices.

[0006] There is a growing demand for refrigerators with glass or metal door panels mounted on the front of the door. These door panels can be either glued to prevent separation from the door body by conventional means, or can be detachably attached to the door body.

[0007] US8,789,900B2 discloses a refrigerator capable of mounting a decorative panel using multiple fasteners. However, the refrigerator suffers from a complex structure for joining the decorative panels, and the fasteners for joining are exposed to the outside.

[0008] Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0103412 discloses a refrigerator including a door having a door body and a door panel, and discloses a feature in which a magnet attached to the rear of the door panel is magnetically attached to a body cover of the door body.

[0009] Meanwhile, the side decorations that form the sides of the door body can extend vertically and have a consistent cross-section. Considering this characteristic, they are often manufactured using extrusion molding. When extrusion molding side decorations, aluminum is typically used due to the specific manufacturing process.

[0010] If the side decoration is made of aluminum, the magnet cannot be attached to the side decoration by magnetic force. Therefore, as in Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0103412, the magnet provided on the door panel can only be attached to a body cover made of iron or an iron-containing alloy, and cannot be attached to the side decoration made of aluminum.

[0011] However, as mentioned above, the shape of such a body cover can be deformed during the insulation filling process, and the magnet is attached to the body cover placed at the front of the door body rather than the side deco, making it difficult to install the side edge of the door panel and the side edge of the door body in the same way as designed.

[0012] Meanwhile, demand is growing for refrigerators designed with a depth similar to that of other appliances or furniture. While a greater depth of the refrigerator door offers advantages in terms of insulation, the overall depth of the refrigerator can also increase.

[0013] When attaching the door panel to the door body using a magnet, there was a problem in which the thickness of the entire door increased by the thickness occupied by the magnet, regardless of insulation.

[0014] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned and other problems.

[0015] Another purpose may be to provide a refrigerator with a door panel.

[0016] Another purpose may be to provide a refrigerator in which the door panel can be easily mounted to the door body.

[0017] Another purpose may be to provide a refrigerator in which the fastening member that joins the door panel to the door body is not exposed to the outside.

[0018] Another purpose may be to provide a refrigerator in which the fastening member that joins the door panel to the door body is not exposed to the outside.

[0019] Another object may be to provide a refrigerator in which a door panel can be installed in a fixed position on a door body, and in which the door panel can be installed in a fixed position on the door body even if the shape of the door body is deformed during the insulation filling process. In particular, it may be to provide a refrigerator in which the side edge of the door panel can be installed in a designed position relative to the side edge of the door body.

[0020] Another purpose may be to provide a refrigerator in which the part that binds to the magnet of the door body does not become deformed during the insulation filling process.

[0021] Another purpose may be to provide a refrigerator in which the mounting position of the door panel is not interfered with even if the front surface of the door body swells forward during the insulation filling process.

[0022] Another purpose may be to provide a refrigerator having a reduced depth of the door in the forward-reverse direction.

[0023] Another purpose may be to provide a refrigerator that can share parts of a door of a type in which a door panel is attached to a door body and a door of a type in which a door panel is detachably connected to a door body.

[0024] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0025]

[0026] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object, a refrigerator includes a cabinet and a door.

[0027] The above cabinet has a storage compartment. The storage compartment can be opened toward the front.

[0028] The above door can open and close the storage compartment. The door can be rotatably coupled to the cabinet to open and close the storage compartment.

[0029] The above door may include a door body and a door panel.

[0030] The above door body can be placed at the front of the cabinet. The door body can open and close the storage compartment.

[0031] The interior space of the door may be provided with insulation. The interior space of the door may be provided by the door body. Alternatively, the interior space of the door may be provided by both the door body and the door panel.

[0032] The door body may include a front surface facing forward. The door body may include a side surface facing sideways.

[0033] The front surface may include a receiving portion. The receiving portion may be in contact with a side surface of the door body. The receiving portion may form an edge of the front surface of the door body. The receiving portion may be recessed rearward to form a groove.

[0034] The above door panel can be coupled to the front surface of the above door body.

[0035] The door panel may include a magnet. The magnet may be positioned on a back surface facing the front surface of the door body. The magnet may be provided on the back surface of the door body.

[0036] The above magnet can be attached to the back surface of the door body.

[0037] The magnet may be attached to an adhesive member attached to the back surface of the door body. The adhesive member may attach the magnet to the back surface of the door body. The adhesive member may be a double-sided tape.

[0038] The magnet may be positioned on a side edge of the back surface of the door panel. Alternatively, the magnet may be positioned adjacent to a side edge of the back surface of the door panel.

[0039] The above magnets may be placed on the left and right sides of the back surface of the door panel, or may be placed adjacent to the left and right sides.

[0040] The above magnets may be extended vertically. Alternatively, multiple magnets may be arranged side by side vertically.

[0041] The above magnet can be coupled to the above receiving portion by magnetic force.

[0042] The above door body may include a side decoration. The side decoration may provide a side surface of the door body. The side decoration may extend vertically.

[0043] The above side decoration may have a cross-section of a certain shape and include a portion extending in the vertical direction.

[0044] The above side decoration can be provided on both sides of the door body.

[0045] The above side deco may include a side wall providing a side surface of the door body.

[0046] The above side decoration may include the front part.

[0047] The front portion may extend from the side wall. The front portion may extend inwardly in the width direction of the door body.

[0048] The magnet can be coupled to the side deco by magnetic force. The magnet can be coupled to the front part of the side deco.

[0049] The front portion of the above side decoration may include a receiving portion to which a magnet is coupled. The receiving portion may extend from the side wall to form an outer edge of the front surface of the door body.

[0050] The above-mentioned receiving portion may be arranged on the outer side of the inner panel in the width direction of the door. The above-mentioned receiving portion may be exposed forward when the door panel is not connected to the door body.

[0051] An attractive force may be applied between the side deco and the magnet by the magnetic force of the magnet. The side deco may be a magnetic material that is magnetized by an external magnetic field. The side deco may be a magnetic material that is magnetized by the magnetic force of the magnet.

[0052] The above side decoration may be made of iron, nickel, cobalt, or an alloy containing at least some of these. The above side decoration may be made of galcanized iron.

[0053] The above side decoration can be manufactured by sheet metal forming.

[0054] The front portion of the above side deco may include an extension portion.

[0055] The above extension portion may extend from the receiving portion. The above extension portion may extend inwardly in the width direction of the door from the receiving portion.

[0056] The front portion of the above side decoration may have a step between the receiving portion and the extension portion. The receiving portion and the extension portion may be stepped in the front-back direction. The receiving portion may be positioned rearward of the extension portion.

[0057] The above-mentioned receptacle may be recessed rearward. The above-mentioned receptacle may be recessed rearward between the side wall and the extension to form a groove. A magnet of the door panel may be placed in the groove.

[0058] The above side deco may include a rear portion extending from the rear end of the side wall.

[0059] The above door body may include an inner panel. The inner panel may provide a front surface of the door body. The inner panel may provide a portion of the front surface of the door body.

[0060] The inner panel can be attached to the front of the side deco. The inner panel can be positioned at the front of the extension.

[0061] The inner panel may include a side rim positioned at the front of the extension. The side rim may form a lateral edge of the inner panel.

[0062] The above side rim can contact the inner panel at the front of the inner panel.

[0063] The inner panel may include a bending portion that is bent rearward from the edge of the side rim. The bending portion may be positioned at the front end of the step between the extension portion and the receiving portion. The bending portion may be inserted into a groove of the receiving portion.

[0064] The inner panel may include a cover panel. The cover panel may form a central portion of the inner panel. The cover panel may extend from the side rim. The cover panel may extend inwardly in the width direction of the door body from the side rim.

[0065] The cover panel and the side panel may be stepped in the front-rear direction. The cover panel may be positioned rearward of the side panel. Alternatively, the inner panel may further include a step part that is stepped rearward from the side rim, and the cover part may be stepped rearward from the step part.

[0066] The inner panel may have side rims arranged on both left and right sides. A cover panel may be arranged between the side rims arranged on the left and right sides.

[0067] The side rim and the back surface of the door panel may be in contact with each other. Alternatively, the side rim and the back surface of the door panel may be arranged adjacent to each other even though they are spaced apart from each other. For example, the side rim and the back surface of the door panel may be spaced apart by a gap smaller than the thickness of the door panel.

[0068] The width of the front part of the side deco in the width direction of the door may be smaller than the width of the front part of the inner panel.

[0069] The side wall of the side decoration may include a side cover part that protrudes further forward than the front portion of the side decoration. The side cover part may overlap at least a portion of the door panel in the width direction of the door.

[0070] The side cover part includes: an outer portion facing outward in the width direction of the door body; and an inner portion that is bent inward in the width direction of the door body from the front end of the side of the door body and extends rearward, and the front portion of the door body can extend from the rear end of the inner portion.

[0071] The door body may include a rear panel facing rearward. The rear panel may be coupled to the side deco. The rear panel may be coupled to the rear portion of the side deco.

[0072] The above door body may further include a lower cap deco that provides the lower surface of the door body.

[0073] The lower cap deco may include: a bottom providing the lower surface of the door body; a front wall having a lower portion extending upward from the bottom and positioned rearward of a front end of the bottom, and an upper portion extending upward from the bottom and inserted into the rear of the inner panel and positioned forward of the lower portion; and a connecting rib extending upward from the bottom between the front end of the bottom and the front wall of the lower cap deco.

[0074] The door panel may further include a lower bracket attached to the lower portion of the rear surface of the door panel and having a lower portion spaced rearward from the lower portion of the door panel.

[0075] The above-mentioned joining rib can be inserted between the lower part of the door panel and the lower part of the lower bracket.

[0076] The inner panel may further include a lower rim that forms the lower portion of the inner panel and overlaps the upper portion of the front wall of the lower cap deco in the front-back direction.

[0077] The lower rim may contact the rear surface of the door panel or be spaced rearward from the door panel by a gap smaller than the thickness of the door panel.

[0078] The above lower bracket may include a lower panel attached to the door panel. The lower rim may overlap the lower panel in the vertical direction.

[0079] The above door panel may include an upper bracket attached to the upper portion of the rear surface of the door panel.

[0080] The above upper bracket may include a coupler having a latch hole that protrudes rearward and is open upwardly and downwardly.

[0081] The above door body may include an upper cap deco arranged on the upper portion of the door body.

[0082] The above upper cap deco may include: a front wall facing forward and having a hole into which the coupler is inserted; and a cover providing the upper surface of the door body, the cover having a latch protruding downward and inserted into the latch hole of the coupler.

[0083] The inner panel may further include an upper rim that forms the upper portion of the inner panel and overlaps the front wall of the upper cap deco in the front-back direction.

[0084] The upper rim may contact the rear surface of the door panel or be spaced rearward from the door panel by a distance smaller than the thickness of the door panel.

[0085] The above upper bracket may further include an upper panel attached to the door panel.

[0086] The above upper rim can be overlapped with the upper panel in the vertical direction.

[0087]

[0088] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage compartment open to the front; a door body disposed at the front of the cabinet for opening and closing the storage compartment, the door body including a side deco and a rear panel coupled to the side deco and facing rearward; and a door panel coupled to the front surface of the door body.

[0089] The door panel may include: a back surface facing the front surface of the door body; and a magnet attached to the back surface.

[0090] The above side deco may include: a side wall providing a side surface of the door body; and a front portion extending inwardly in the width direction of the door body from the side wall.

[0091] The above magnet can be coupled to the front part of the side deco by magnetic force.

[0092]

[0093] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described purpose, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage compartment open to the front; a door body disposed at the front of the cabinet for opening and closing the storage compartment; and a door panel including a rear surface facing the front surface of the door body and a magnet attached to the rear surface, the door panel being coupled to the front surface of the door body.

[0094] The front surface of the door body may include a receiving portion that forms an edge of the front surface of the door body by contacting the side surface of the door body and is sunken rearward to form a groove.

[0095] The magnet is placed in the groove of the receiving portion and can be coupled to the receiving portion by magnetic force.

[0096]

[0097] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having a storage compartment open to the front; a door body disposed at the front of the cabinet for opening and closing the storage compartment, the door body including an inner panel facing forward, a rear panel facing rearward, and a side deco facing sideways and coupled to the inner panel and the rear panel; and a door panel including a rear surface facing the front of the door body and a magnet attached to the rear surface, the door panel being coupled to the door body at the front of the door body.

[0098] The above side deco may include: a side wall providing a side surface of the door body; a receiving portion extending inwardly in the width direction of the door body from the side wall and facing forward; and a joining portion extending inwardly in the width direction of the door body from the receiving portion and facing forward and joined to the inner panel.

[0099] The above-mentioned receiving portion may be recessed rearwardly relative to the connecting portion to form a groove between the front portion of the side wall and the connecting portion. The magnet may be positioned in the groove of the receiving portion and may be coupled to the receiving portion by magnetic force.

[0100] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

[0101] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator having a door panel can be provided.

[0102] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator can be provided in which a door panel can be easily mounted on a door body.

[0103] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator can be provided in which a fastening member for connecting a door panel to a door body is not exposed to the outside.

[0104] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator can be provided in which a fastening member for connecting a door panel to a door body is not exposed to the outside.

[0105] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator can be provided in which a door panel can be mounted in a fixed position on a door body, and the door panel can be mounted in a fixed position on the door body even if the shape of the door body is deformed during the process of filling the door body with insulation. In particular, a refrigerator can be provided in which a side edge of the door panel can be mounted in a designed position relative to a side edge of the door body.

[0106] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator can be provided in which a portion coupled to a magnet of a door body is not deformed during an insulation filling process.

[0107] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator can be provided in which the mounting position of the door panel is not interfered with even if the front surface of the door body swells forward during the insulation filling process.

[0108] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator having a reduced depth of a door in the front-rear direction can be provided.

[0109] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a refrigerator can be provided in which parts of a door of a type in which a door panel is attached to a door body and a door of a type in which a door panel is detachably connected to a door body can be shared.

[0110]

[0111] FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0112] Figure 2 is a front view of the refrigerator with the door shown in Figure 1 open.

[0113] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the door shown in FIG. 1, showing the door panel mounted on the door body and the door panel detached.

[0114] Figure 4 is a rear view of the door panel illustrated in Figure 3.

[0115] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of the door body illustrated in Figure 3.

[0116] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the door shown in Figure 3.

[0117] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a door of a refrigerator according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, and is an enlarged view of a portion shown in FIG. 6.

[0118] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the door illustrated in Figure 3.

[0119] Figure 9 is a conceptual diagram showing the process of assembling the door panel illustrated in Figure 3 to the door body.

[0120] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the lower part of the door shown in Fig. 3.

[0121] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the door body illustrated in Fig. 3 with the cover and door panel separated.

[0122] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of the door shown in Fig. 3.

[0123] Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the door panel of the lower door illustrated in Fig. 1 in a separated state.

[0124] Fig. 14 is a rear view of the door panel of the lower door illustrated in Fig. 13.

[0125] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the upper part of the lower door shown in Fig. 13.

[0126] Fig. 16 is a lower perspective view of the lower door illustrated in Fig. 13.

[0127] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the lower part of the lower door shown in Fig. 13.

[0128] Fig. 18 is a bottom view of the door shown in Fig. 1, showing a closed state and a state during the opening process.

[0129] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator door according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0130] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator door according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0131] Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator door according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator door according to the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a refrigerator door according to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134]

[0135] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0136] The suffixes "module" and "part" used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing specifications, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0137] In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0138] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another.

[0139] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0140] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0141]

[0142] Hereinafter, the appearance and storage compartment of the refrigerator will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0143]

[0144] Referring to FIG. 1, a refrigerator includes a cabinet (10). The cabinet (10) may form the exterior of the refrigerator. The cabinet (10) may have a space inside. Food may be stored in the space. Hereinafter, the space is also referred to as a storage compartment (10).

[0145] The cabinet (10) may have a plurality of storage rooms (R1, R2, F1, F2). The plurality of storage rooms (R1, R2, F1, F2) may be partitioned from each other. Alternatively, the plurality of storage rooms (R1, R2, F1, F2) may be a single space that is not partitioned from each other.

[0146] For example, the cold storage rooms (R1, R2) and the freezer rooms (F1, F2) described below can be partitioned from each other. For example, the first refrigerator room (R1) and the second refrigerator room (R2) described below can form a single refrigerator room (R, see FIG. 2). For example, the first freezer room (F1) and the second freezer room (F2) described below can be partitioned from each other.

[0147] The storage room (10) may include a first refrigerating room (R1). The first refrigerating room (R1) may be formed at the top of the cabinet (10).

[0148] The storage compartments (R1, R2, F1, F2) may include a second refrigerating compartment (R2). The second refrigerating compartment (R2) may be formed at the top of the cabinet (10).

[0149] The first refrigerating chamber (R1) and the second refrigerating chamber (R2) may be connected to each other. Alternatively, the first refrigerating chamber (R1) and the second refrigerating chamber (R2) may be partitioned from each other. The first refrigerating chamber (R1) may be a space formed at the rear of the first door (91). The second refrigerating chamber (R2) may be a space formed at the rear of the second door (22).

[0150] The storage compartment (10) may include a first freezer compartment (F1). The first freezer compartment (F1) may be formed at the bottom of the cabinet (10). The first freezer compartment (F1) may be located below the refrigerator compartments (R1, R2).

[0151] The storage compartment (10) may include a second freezer compartment (F2). The second freezer compartment (F2) may be formed at the bottom of the cabinet (90). The second freezer compartment (F2) may be located below the refrigerator compartments (R1, R2).

[0152] The arrangement of the refrigerators (R, R1, R2) and the freezers (F1, F2) may be different from that described above. For example, the storage compartment may be elongated vertically and partitioned in the width direction of the cabinet (10), with the freezer being arranged on one side and the refrigerator being arranged on the other side. Alternatively, the refrigerators (R1, R2) arranged on the upper side may be partitioned in the width direction of the cabinet (10), and the freezer arranged on the lower side may be partitioned vertically. Alternatively, the freezer may be arranged on the upper side and the refrigerator may be arranged on the lower side.

[0153] Hereinafter, with regard to the arrangement and partitioning of the storage room (10), an example will be described in which a refrigerator room (R) is arranged at the top, a freezer room (F1, F2) partitioned vertically from the refrigerator room (R) is arranged at the bottom, and the first freezer room (F1) and the second freezer room (F2) are partitioned in the width direction of the cabinet (see Fig. 2).

[0154] The above cabinet (10) may include a first compartment (161). The refrigerator compartment (R) and the freezer compartment (R1, R2) may be partitioned by the first compartment (161).

[0155] A refrigerator may include a door (2). The door (2) can open and close a storage compartment (10). The door (2) can be rotatably coupled to a cabinet (10). The door (2) can be rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10) by a hinge (12, see FIG. 2). The door (2) is rotatably coupled to the cabinet (10) to open and close the storage compartment (10).

[0156] The door (2) may include a refrigerator door (20) that opens and closes the refrigerator compartment (R). The refrigerator door (20) may also be referred to as an upper door (20). Furthermore, the refrigerator compartment (R) may also be referred to as an upper storage compartment.

[0157] The upper door (20) may include a first upper door (21) and a second upper door (22). The first upper door (21) may open and close a portion (R1) of the refrigerator compartment (R), and the second upper door (22) may open and close another portion (R2) of the refrigerator compartment (R). The first upper door (21) may also be referred to as a first refrigerator compartment door (21), and the second upper door (22) may also be referred to as a second refrigerator compartment door (22).

[0158] The door (2) may include a freezer door (25) that opens and closes the freezer (F). The freezer door (25) may also be referred to as a lower door (25). Furthermore, the freezer (F) may also be referred to as a lower storage compartment.

[0159] The lower door (25) may include a first lower door (26) and a second lower door (27). The first lower door (26) may open and close a part (F1) of the freezer (F), and the second lower door (27) may open and close another part (F2) of the freezer (F). The first lower door (26) may also be referred to as a first freezer door (26), and the second lower door (27) may also be referred to as a second freezer door (27).

[0160]

[0161] Referring to Fig. 2, the storage compartment (11) can be opened forward. A user can access the interior of the storage compartment (11) through the open front of the storage compartment. A door (2) is positioned at the front of the cabinet (10) to open and close the storage compartment (11).

[0162] The first refrigerator door (21) and the second refrigerator door (22) can open and close the refrigerator compartment (R). The first freezer door (23) can open and close the first freezer compartment (F1). The second freezer door (24) can open and close the second freezer compartment (F2).

[0163] The refrigerator may include a first compartment (161) that divides a refrigerator compartment (R) and a freezer compartment (F, see FIG. 1). The first compartment (161) may separate the refrigerator compartment (R) and the freezer compartment (F) from each other. The first compartment (161) may divide the refrigerator compartment (R) and the freezer compartment (F2) in a vertical direction.

[0164] The first compartment (161) may provide the floor of the refrigerator®. The first compartment (161) may provide the ceiling of the freezer (F).

[0165] The refrigerator may include a second compartment (162) that divides the freezer (F) into a first freezer (F1) and a second freezer (F2). The second compartment (162) may divide the first and second freezer compartments (F1, F2) in the width direction of the cabinet (10).

[0166] The refrigerator may include shelves. The shelves (131, 132, 133) may be arranged in the refrigerator compartment (R). The shelves (131, 132, 133) may be arranged horizontally. The shelves (131, 132, 133) may partition the refrigerator compartment (R) vertically.

[0167] The shelves (131, 132, 133) may be provided in multiple numbers. For example, the plurality of shelves (131, 132, 133) may include a first shelf (131), a second shelf (132) arranged below the first shelf (132), and a third shelf (133) arranged below the second shelf (132).

[0168] The third shelf (133) may be spaced upward from the floor of the refrigerator (R). A drawer (151) may be placed in the space between the third shelf (133) and the floor of the refrigerator (R).

[0169] The refrigerator may include drawers (151, 152). The drawers (151, 152) may be arranged in a storage compartment (10). The drawers (151, 152) may be provided so as to be withdrawable from the storage compartments (R, F1, F2). The drawers (151, 152) may be withdrawable forward from the storage compartments (R, F1, F2).

[0170] The drawers (151, 152) may include a refrigerator drawer (151) placed in the refrigerator compartment (R) and a freezer drawer (152) placed in the freezer compartment (F1, F2).

[0171] The refrigerator may include a basket (211, 221, 261, 271). The basket (211, 221, 261, 271) may be placed in the door (2).

[0172] The baskets (211, 221, 261, 271) may include a first basket (211) provided in the first upper door (21). A plurality of first baskets (211) may be provided in the first upper door (21). A plurality of first baskets (211) may be arranged in a vertical direction.

[0173] The baskets (211, 221, 261, 271) may include a second basket (221) provided in the second upper door (22), a third basket (261) provided in the first lower door (26), and a fourth basket (271) provided in the second lower door (27). The characteristics of the first basket (211) described above may also be applied to the second to fourth baskets (221, 261, 271).

[0174] A refrigerator may include a refrigeration cycle and a blower fan. This allows cold air to be supplied at a set temperature to the refrigerator compartment (R) and the freezer compartments (F1, F2). For example, cold air may be supplied to the refrigerator compartment (R) at a set temperature ranging from 0°C to 10°C. For example, cold air may be supplied to the freezer compartment (F) at a set temperature ranging from below 0°C to above -30°C.

[0175]

[0176] Hereinafter, the door (2) will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 12. Although the first upper door (21) is illustrated in FIG. 3, the second upper door (22) has the same features as the first upper door (21) and is arranged symmetrically. The features of the door (2) described below can be commonly applied to the first upper door (21) and the second upper door (22).

[0177]

[0178] Referring to FIG. 3, the door (2) includes a door body (4) and a door panel (3).

[0179] The door body (4) can be placed at the front of the cabinet (10). The door body (4) can open and close the storage compartment (11). The door body (4) is placed at the front of the cabinet (10) and can open and close the storage compartment (11).

[0180] The door body (4) can provide an interior space of the door (2) filled with insulation. The door (2) is filled with insulation on the inside to insulate the storage compartment (11).

[0181] For example, if foam is injected into the space inside the door (2), the foam expands and the inside of the door (2) can be filled with insulation.

[0182] If the panel surrounding the interior space of a door (2) is thin, the panel's shape may deform during the process of filling it with insulation. The present disclosure proposes various means to reduce the risk of panel shape deformation and resolve problems that may arise due to deformation. A detailed description thereof will be provided below.

[0183] The side deco (5, see Fig. 5) providing the side of the door body (4) may include a hinge receiving portion (512) into which a hinge (12) is inserted.

[0184] The door panel (3) can be coupled to the door body (4). For example, the door panel (3) can be coupled to the front surface of the door body (4).

[0185] The door panel (3) can be detachably connected to the door body (4). The door panel (3) can be separated from the door body (4) so ​​that the door body (4) and the door panel (3) are not damaged during the process of being detached from the door body (4).

[0186]

[0187] Referring to FIG. 4, the door panel (3) may include a rearward-facing back surface (32). The back surface (32) may face the front surface of the door body (4).

[0188] A magnet (36) may be provided on the back surface of the door body (4).

[0189] The magnet (36) can be attached to the back surface (32). For example, the magnet (36) can be attached to the back surface (32) via an adhesive member (37, see FIG. 7). The adhesive member (37) is attached to the back surface (32), and the magnet (36) can be attached to the adhesive member. The adhesive member (37) can be a double-sided tape.

[0190] The magnet (36) may be placed on the side edge of the back surface (32). Alternatively, unlike as shown in FIG. 4, the magnet (36) may be placed spaced apart from the side edge of the back surface (32), but adjacent to the side edge.

[0191] The magnet (36) may be placed on the left and right sides of the back surface (32), or may be placed adjacent to the two sides.

[0192] The above magnet can be extended in the vertical direction.

[0193] Alternatively, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 4, multiple magnets may be arranged in a vertical direction. Multiple magnets may be arranged in parallel in a vertical direction.

[0194] The magnet (36) can be coupled to the door body by magnetic force. The magnet (36) of the door panel (3) can be coupled to the front surface of the door body (4).

[0195] An attractive force may be applied between the front surface of the door body (4) and the magnet (36) by the magnetic force of the magnet (36). At least a portion of the front surface of the door body (4) may be made of a magnetic material or may include a magnetic material. A magnetic material may refer to a material that is magnetized by an external magnetic field.

[0196] At least a portion of the front surface of the door body (4) may be made of iron, nickel, cobalt or an alloy containing at least some of these.

[0197] A lower bracket (35) may be provided on the back surface (32) of the door panel (3). The lower bracket (35) may include a lower panel (351) attached to the door panel (3).

[0198] The lower bracket (35) can be attached to the back surface (32). The lower bracket (35) can be attached to the lower part (38, see Fig. 10) of the back surface (32).

[0199] The lower bracket (35) may include a rib (355) protruding rearward from the lower panel (351).

[0200] The lower bracket (35) may include a lower portion (353) spaced rearward from the lower portion (381) of the door panel (3).

[0201] Through this, the lower part of the door panel (3) can be joined and supported to the lower part of the door body (4).

[0202] An upper bracket (33) may be provided on the back surface (32) of the door panel (3). The upper bracket (33) may include an upper panel (331) attached to the door panel (3).

[0203] The upper bracket (33) can be attached to the upper part of the back surface (32).

[0204] The upper bracket may include a coupler (333) protruding rearwardly. The coupler (333) may have a latch hole (334) that is open upwardly and downwardly.

[0205] Through this, the upper part of the door panel (3) can be joined to the upper part of the door body (4).

[0206]

[0207] Referring to Fig. 5, the front surface of the door body (4) may include a receiving portion (56). At least a portion of the front surface of the door body (4) described above may be the receiving portion (56).

[0208] The magnet (36) provided on the aforementioned door panel (3) can be coupled to the receiving portion (56) by magnetic force. The magnet (36) is attached to the back surface of the door panel (3) and can be coupled to the receiving portion (56) by magnetic force.

[0209] Alternatively, the magnet (36) may be coupled to the receiving portion (56) without being attached to the door panel (3). In this case, the door panel (3) may be provided with a means for coupling with the magnet (36). For example, the magnet (36) coupled to the receiving portion (56) through the adhesive member (37) illustrated in FIG. 7 may be attached to the back surface (32) of the door panel (3). Alternatively, a magnetic body may be provided on the back surface of the door panel (3), and the magnetic body and the magnet (36) may be coupled. Alternatively, the door panel (3) may be made of a magnetic body, as in the second embodiment described below with reference to FIG. 19.

[0210] Hereinafter, it is described that a magnet (36) is attached to the back surface of the door panel (3) and the magnet (36) is coupled to the receiving portion (56).

[0211] The receiving portion (56) can be in contact with the side surface (51) of the door body (4). The receiving portion (56) can form the edge of the front surface of the door body (4).

[0212] The receiving portion (56) may be recessed rearward. The receiving portion (56) may be recessed rearward to form a groove (46).

[0213] The door body (4) may include a side deco (5). The side deco (5) may include a side wall (51) that provides the side of the door body.

[0214] The receiving portion (56) can be formed in the side deco (5).

[0215] The receiving portion (56) of the side deco (5) can provide the lateral edge of the front surface of the door body (4).

[0216] The door body (4) may include an inner panel (41).

[0217] The inner panel (41) can be connected to the side deco (5). The inner panel (41) and the side deco (5) can be connected through a fastening member (419). In addition, the inner panel (41) and the upper cap deco (43) can be connected through the fastening member (419).

[0218] The inner panel (41) can provide the front surface of the door body (4). The inner panel (41) can provide the central portion of the front surface of the door body (4).

[0219] The receiving portion (56) may be positioned on the outside of the inner panel (41). As illustrated in Fig. 5, the receiving portion (56) may be exposed forward when the door panel (3) is not mounted on the door body (4).

[0220] The side deco (5) may include a side cover part (53). The side cover part (53) may be the front part of the side wall (51).

[0221] The side cover part (53) may protrude forward from the outer end of the receiving portion (56). The front end (533) of the side cover part (53) or the front end (533) of the side wall (51) may protrude forward from the receiving portion (56).

[0222] The side deco (5) may include a rear portion (58). The rear portion (58) may be coupled to a rear panel (46, see FIG. 6) described later.

[0223] The rear portion (58) can extend from the rear end of the side wall (51). The rear portion (58) can extend inward in the width direction of the door body (4) from the rear end of the side wall (51).

[0224] An attractive force may be applied between the side deco (5) and the magnet (36) by the magnetic force of the magnet (36). The side deco (5) may be a magnetic material that is magnetized by an external magnetic field. The side deco (5) may be a magnetic material that is magnetized by the magnetic force of the magnet.

[0225] The side deco (5) may be made of iron, nickel, cobalt, or an alloy containing at least some of these. The side deco may be made of galcanized iron.

[0226] The door body (4) may include a top cap deco (43). The top cap deco (43) may cover the upper part of the door body (4).

[0227] The door body (4) may include a cover (44). The cover (44) may cover the upper surface of the upper cap deco.

[0228] The upper surface cap deco (43) and cover (44) can provide the upper surface of the door body (4).

[0229] The side deco (5) and the top cap deco (43) can be joined by a fastening member (59).

[0230]

[0231] Referring to Fig. 6, side deco (5) can be provided on both sides of the door body (4).

[0232] The side deco (5) may include a rear portion (58) extending from the rear end of the side wall (51).

[0233] The door body (4) may include a rear panel (46) facing rearward. The rear panel (46) may be coupled to the side deco (5). The rear panel (46) may be coupled to the rear portion (58) of the side deco (5).

[0234] A rear panel (46) can be placed between the rear portion (58) of the side deco (5) placed on both sides of the door body (4).

[0235] The rear panel (46) may face rearward. The rear panel (46) may face the storage compartment (11).

[0236] A gasket (49) can be attached to the rear panel (46). The gasket (49) can seal the space between the cabinet (10) and the door body (4).

[0237] The side deco (5) may include a front portion (55) extending from the side wall (51).

[0238] The door body (4) may include a lower cap deco (45) that covers the lower part of the door body (4).

[0239] The lower cap deco (45) may include a bushing mount (452) that accommodates a bushing (425).

[0240] The lower cap deco (45) may include a handle (458) having a groove that protrudes upward from the bottom and is sunken upward from the bottom.

[0241] An inner panel (41) can be placed between the front portion (55) of the side deco (5) provided on both sides of the door body (4).

[0242] The side deco (5), rear panel (46), inner panel (41), lower cap deco (45) and the aforementioned upper cap deco (43) provide an internal space of the door (2), and insulation can be filled into the internal space of the door (2).

[0243] The width of the front part (55) of the side deco (5) is a small proportion of the total width of the door (2) and is not large. For example, the width of the front part (55) of the side deco (5) in the width direction of the door (2) is smaller than the width of the inner panel (41).

[0244] In addition, the receiving portion (56) is a part of the front portion (55), and a side cover part (53) with a bent structure is arranged on one side, and a step structure is arranged on the other side as described later.

[0245] Accordingly, even if the front part (55) of the side deco (5) is thin, the shape may not be deformed during the process of filling the insulation material.

[0246] The door panel (3) can be attached to the front of the door body (4). The door panel (3) can be placed in front of the inner panel (41).

[0247] The magnet (36) of the door panel (55) can be combined with the front part (55) of the side deco (5).

[0248]

[0249] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of the section shown in Figure 6. However, to aid understanding, components located below the cross-section are not shown.

[0250] Referring to Fig. 7, the door panel (3) can be placed at the front of the door body (4, see Fig. 3). The door panel (3) can be coupled to the front surface of the door body (4).

[0251] The door panel (3) may be formed of a glass material. For example, the door panel (3) may be formed of a tempered glass material. In addition, it may have a color or pattern through printing or film attachment, etc.

[0252] A magnet (36) may be provided on the back surface (32) of the door panel (3).

[0253] The magnet (36) can be attached to the back surface (32). For example, the magnet (36) can be attached to the back surface (32) via an adhesive member (37). The adhesive member (37) is attached to the back surface (32), and the magnet (36) can be attached to the adhesive member. The adhesive member (37) can be a double-sided tape.

[0254] The side deco (5) may include a front portion (55) extending from the side wall (51). The front portion (55) may extend from the rear end of the inner portion (534) described below.

[0255] The front portion (55) may extend inwardly in the width direction of the door body. The front portion (55) may provide a surface facing forward.

[0256] The magnet (36) can be coupled to the front part (55) of the side deco (5) by magnetic force.

[0257] The front portion (55) of the side deco may include a receiving portion (56). The receiving portion (56) may extend from the side wall (51). The receiving portion (56) may form the outer edge of the front surface of the door body (4). The receiving portion (56) may be coupled to a magnet (36).

[0258] The receiving portion (56) may be recessed rearward. The receiving portion (56) may be recessed rearward to form a groove (563). A magnet (36) may be placed in the groove (563).

[0259] The side wall (51) of the side deco (5) may include a side cover part (53). The side cover part (53) may correspond to the front part of the side wall (51).

[0260] The side cover part (53) includes an outer portion (531) extending from the side of the door body (41), and an inner portion (534) extending rearward by bending inward from the front end (533) of the side.

[0261] The receiving portion (56) can extend from the inner portion (534).

[0262] The side cover part (53) may protrude forward from the outer end of the receiving portion (56). The front end (533) of the side cover part (53) or the front end (533) of the side wall (51) may protrude forward from the receiving portion (56).

[0263] The side cover part (53) may protrude further forward than the front portion (55) of the side deco (5). The side cover part (53) may cover at least a portion of the door panel (3) on the outer side in the width direction of the door (2). The side cover part (53) may overlap at least a portion of the door panel (3) in the width direction of the door (2).

[0264] The outer portion (531) may be bent inward toward the shear (533). Alternatively, the outer portion (531) may include an inclined surface (532) facing inward toward the shear. The inclined surface (532) may be a curved surface.

[0265] The side deco (5) may include an extension (57). The extension (57) may extend from the receiving portion (56). The extension (57) may extend inwardly in the width direction of the door (2) from the receiving portion (56).

[0266] The front portion (55) of the side deco (5) may have a step (567) between the receiving portion (56) and the extension portion (57). That is, the receiving portion (56) and the extension portion (57) may be stepped in the front-back direction. The receiving portion (56) may be positioned rearward relative to the extension portion (57).

[0267] Accordingly, when the foam expands and the insulation is filled, and sufficient insulation is filled at the rear of the receiving portion, the foam expands at the rear of the receiving portion and can easily move to the rear of the extension portion without excessively pressurizing the receiving portion forward.

[0268] The receiving portion (56) may be recessed rearward. The receiving portion (56) may be recessed rearward between the side wall (51) and the extension portion (57) to form a groove (563) for receiving the magnet (36).

[0269] Accordingly, the shape of the receiving portion (56) that is coupled with the magnet (36) may not be deformed during the insulation filling process.

[0270] The side deco (5) may be made of iron, nickel, cobalt, or an alloy containing at least some of these. The side deco (5) may be made of galvanized iron.

[0271] Side deco (5) can be manufactured by sheet metal forming.

[0272] The extension (57) of the side deco (5) can be placed at the rear of the inner panel (41). The receiving portion (56) of the side deco (5) can be placed on the outside of the inner panel (41) in the width direction of the door (2).

[0273] The inner panel (41) may include a side rim (415) that overlaps the extension (57) of the side deco (5) in the front-rear direction.

[0274] The inner panel (41) may include a bending portion (418) that is bent rearward from the outer end of the side rim (415). The bending portion (418) may be caught on the step (567) of the side deco (5).

[0275] The side rim (415) and the door panel (3) may be in contact with each other. Alternatively, the side rim (415) and the door panel (3) may be arranged adjacent to each other but spaced apart from each other. For example, the side rim (415) and the door panel (3) may be spaced apart from each other by a gap (G) smaller than the thickness (D) of the door panel (3).

[0276] The inner panel (41) may include a cover part (411) that is stepped rearward from the side rim (415).

[0277] The cover part (411) can cover the space between the side decos (5) arranged on both sides of the door (2) from the front.

[0278]

[0279] Referring to Fig. 8, the side deco (5) can extend in the vertical direction. The side deco (5) has a cross-section of a certain shape and can include a portion extending in the vertical direction.

[0280] Side deco (5) may be provided on both sides of the door body (4). Side deco (5) may include a first side deco (501) arranged on the outside in the width direction of the refrigerator, and a second side deco (502) arranged on the inside.

[0281] The first side deco (501) and the second side deco (502) have shapes that are symmetrical to each other overall. However, the first side deco (501) may have a hinge receiving portion (512), and the second side deco (502) may not have a hinge receiving portion (512).

[0282] A rear panel (46) can be attached to the rear of the side deco (5).

[0283] The door (2) may include a basket (211) that is coupled to the rear panel (46).

[0284] A lower cap deco (45) can be combined at the bottom of the side deco (5). A handle cover (48) can be inserted into the handle groove of the lower cap deco (45). A bushing (425) can be inserted into the bushing mount (452) of the lower cap deco (45).

[0285] The axis of the hinge (12) is inserted into the bushing (425) so that the door (2) can be rotatably connected to and supported by the cabinet (10).

[0286] An upper cap deco (43) can be combined on the upper side of the side deco (95). A cover (44) can be placed on the upper surface of the upper cap deco (43).

[0287] A bushing (423) can be inserted into the upper cap deco (43).

[0288] The axis of the first hinge (121) can be inserted into a bushing (423) placed in the upper cap deco (43).

[0289] An inner panel (41) may be coupled to the front of the side deco (5). The inner panel (41) may be coupled to the side deco (5) with a side rim (415), to the upper rim (413) with an upper cap deco (43), and to the lower rim (414) with a lower cap deco (45). The cover part (411) may be surrounded by the side rim (415), the upper rim (413), and the lower rim (414). The cover part (411) may be stepped backward from the side rim (415), the upper rim (413), and the lower rim (414).

[0290] A lower bracket (35) is attached to the lower part of the back surface of the door panel (3), and an upper bracket (33) is attached to the upper part, so that the lower and upper parts of the door panel (3) can be connected to the lower cap deco (45) and the upper cap deco (43).

[0291]

[0292] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12, a method for mounting a door panel (3) to a door body (4) and a structure for mounting will be described.

[0293]

[0294] Referring to Fig. 9, the lower part of the door panel (3) is hung on the door body (4), the upper part is pressed against the door body (4), and then the cover (44) is joined to the upper part of the door body to mount the door panel on the door body.

[0295]

[0296] Referring to FIG. 10, the lower cap deco (45) may include a bottom (451) that provides the lower surface of the door body (4) and a front wall (456, 457) extending upward from the bottom (451).

[0297] The front wall (456, 457) may include a lower portion (456) extending upward from the floor (451) at a rearward angle from the front end (452) of the floor (451), and an upper portion (457) extending upward from the lower portion (456).

[0298] The upper portion (457) may be positioned forward relative to the lower portion (456). For example, the front wall (456, 457) may be stepped between the upper portion (457) and the lower portion (456).

[0299] The lower part (456) of the front wall is positioned rearward relative to the front end (452) of the floor (451), and the upper part (457) is positioned forward relative to the lower part (456), so that a space (454) can be formed between the upper part (457), the lower part (456), and the floor (451).

[0300] A lower bracket (35) can be inserted into the above space (454).

[0301] The lower bracket (35) has a lower end (353) positioned further rearward than the lower end (381) of the door panel (3), so that a lower-open joining groove (354) is formed between the lower end (381) of the door panel and the lower end of the lower bracket (35).

[0302] The lower cap deco (45) may include a connecting rib (453) protruding upward from the bottom (451) between the front wall (456, 457) and the front end (452).

[0303] When the lower part of the door panel (3) is mounted on the door body (4), the joining rib (453) is inserted into the joining groove (354) so ​​that the lower part of the door panel (3) can be supported on the lower cap deco (45).

[0304] The lower bracket (35) includes a rib (355) that protrudes rearward. Therefore, even if the lower end of the door panel (3) is pressed rearward, it can be supported by the front wall (456) of the rib (355).

[0305] The inner panel (41) can be connected to the lower cap deco (45) and / or the side deco (5) by a fastening member (419).

[0306] The lower rim (414) may be positioned in front of the front wall (456, 457). The lower rim (414) may be positioned in front of the upper portion (457) of the front wall. The lower rim (454) may overlap the upper portion (457) of the front wall in the front-back direction.

[0307] The lower rim (414) may be in contact with the rear surface (32) of the door panel (3), or the lower rim (414) may be positioned close to but spaced apart from the door panel. For example, the lower rim (414) may be spaced rearward from the door panel (3) so as to have a gap smaller than the thickness (D, see FIG. 7) of the door panel (3).

[0308] The lower rim (414) can be overlapped with the lower panel (351) in the vertical direction.

[0309] The upper part (457) of the front wall can overlap with the lower panel (351) in the vertical direction. The upper part (457) of the front wall can be arranged on the same line as the lower panel (351) in the vertical direction. Therefore, when the inner panel is not provided, the door panel can be attached by attaching an adhesive member to the upper part (457) of the front wall.

[0310] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a hole into which a coupler (333) is inserted is provided in the front wall (435) of the upper cap deco (43), so that the coupler (333) passes through the front wall (435), and the latch (446) of the cover (44) is inserted into the latch hole (334) of the coupler (333) that passes through the front wall, so that the upper part of the door panel (3) can be coupled to the upper part of the door body (4).

[0311] The upper cap deco (43) has a joining hole, and the cover (44) includes a fastening part (447, 448) that is inserted into the joining hole, so that the cover (44) can be joined to the upper part of the upper cap deco (43).

[0312] When the door panel (3) is not mounted on the door body (4), the receiving portion (56) and groove (563) of the side deco (5) are exposed forward, so that the magnet (36) can be inserted into the groove when mounting the door panel (3) on the door body.

[0313] The upper cap deco (43) can cover the upper part of the interior space of the door body.

[0314] The upper cap deco (43) may include an upper cover part (433). The upper cover part (433) may protrude forward from the top and cover at least a portion of the upper part of the door panel (3) from the upper side.

[0315] The upper cap deco (43) may have an open space (430) toward the top.

[0316] The cover (44) may include an upper surface that covers the upper portion of the upper cap deco (43).

[0317] The cover (44) has a front end (442) and a rear end (443) that are fitted around the open top of the upper cap deco, and a front insertion part protrudes from the rear of the front end, and a rear insertion part (445) protrudes from the front of the rear end so that it can be inserted into the open top of the upper cap deco (43).

[0318] The upper cap deco (43) includes a connecting portion (434) located at the front, and the front insertion portion of the cover (44) can be inserted into the connecting portion (434).

[0319] The upper cap deco (43) may include a rib (439) protruding forward from the front wall (435). The front wall (435) may include a lower portion (437) extending upward from the bottom and an upper portion (436) positioned forward of the lower portion and extending upward. The rib (439) may protrude from the upper portion (436).

[0320] The front end of the rib (439) can be arranged on the same line in the vertical direction as the upper panel (331) of the upper bracket (33). Therefore, when the inner panel (41) is not provided, the door panel (3) can be attached by attaching an adhesive member to the rib (439).

[0321] The inner panel (41) may include an upper rim (413) forming the upper portion of the inner panel (41). The upper rim (413) may overlap with the front wall (436) and / or rib (439) of the upper cap deco (43) in the front-rear direction.

[0322] The upper rim (413) may be in contact with the back surface (32) of the door panel (3) or may be spaced rearward from the door panel (3) by a distance smaller than the thickness (G) of the door panel.

[0323] The upper rim (413) can be overlapped with the upper panel (331) in the vertical direction.

[0324]

[0325] Hereinafter, the lower door (25) will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 17. The first lower door (26) and the second lower door (27) are arranged symmetrically with each other and have identical features. The features of the lower door (25) described below can be applied to the first lower door (26) and the second lower door (27). Furthermore, features identical or similar to those of the aforementioned upper door (20) may be omitted or briefly described.

[0326] Referring to Fig. 13, the lower door (25) may include a lower door body (7) and a lower door panel (6).

[0327] The lower door panel (6) is similar to the door panel (3) described above. Except for the features specifically described, the features of the door panel (3) described above can be applied.

[0328] The lower door body (7) may include a lower side deco (8). The features of the side deco (5) described above may be applied to the lower side deco (8).

[0329] The lower door body (7) may include a lower inner panel (71). The features of the inner panel (41) described above may be applied to the lower inner panel (71).

[0330] The lower door body (7) may include a first cap deco (73). The first cap deco (73) may be provided on the upper portion of the lower door body (7). The first cap deco (73) is similar to the lower cap deco (45) described above. Except for the features specifically described, the features of the lower cap deco (45) described above may be applied.

[0331] The first lower cap deco (73) may include a handle (738) that is sunken from the upper side to the lower side.

[0332] A bushing (72) can be installed in the first cap deco (73). The hinge axis of the hinge (12) can be inserted into the bushing (72).

[0333] The lower door body (7) may include a second cap deco (75). The second cap deco (75) is similar to the upper cap deco (43) described above. Except for the features specifically described, the features of the upper cap deco (43) described above may be applied.

[0334]

[0335] Referring to Fig. 14, a magnet (66) may be provided on the back surface (62) of the lower door panel (6).

[0336] A first bracket (65) may be provided on the upper portion of the back surface (62) of the lower door panel (6). The first bracket (65) is similar to the lower bracket (35). Therefore, the features of the aforementioned lower bracket (35) may be applied to the first bracket (65).

[0337] A second bracket (63) may be provided on the lower portion of the back surface (62) of the lower door panel (6). The second bracket (63) may have the same features as the upper bracket (33) described above, except for the features specifically described.

[0338]

[0339] Referring to Fig. 15, the joining rib (733) of the first cap deco (73) can be inserted into the groove between the top of the first bracket (653) and the top of the lower door panel (6).

[0340]

[0341] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the second bracket (63) is positioned in the groove in front of the second cap deco, and the latch (746) is inserted into the groove (634) of the coupler (633) of the second bracket (63) through the bottom of the second cap deco (75) to connect the lower part of the lower door panel (6) to the lower door body (7).

[0342]

[0343] FIG. 18 shows an example of a hinge structure that can be applied to a door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0344] Referring to FIG. 18, the hinge (12) includes a hinge axis (120) extending in the vertical direction, and the door (2) may include a bushing (42) having a groove (420) into which the hinge axis (120) is inserted.

[0345] The door (2) may be rotatably provided at the front of the cabinet (10). The position of the rotation axis (120) for the door (2) may be changed depending on the degree of opening of the door (2).

[0346] The axis (120) of the hinge (12) may be provided with two or more hinge axes (120) per hinge (12), and the hinge groove (420) of the bushing (42) may extend in a curved shape. For example, as illustrated, the hinge (122) disposed on the lower side of the upper door (20) may be provided with a rotation center by two hinge axes (120). At this time, the position of the rotation axis of the door may change depending on the degree of door opening. That is, when the door (2) is opened, the hinge axis (120) may slide along the hinge groove (420) within the hinge groove (420).

[0347] The hinge home (420) may include a first curved part (421) at which the axis of the hinge is positioned (c) when the door is closed. The first curved part (421) may extend convexly rearward.

[0348] The hinge home (421) may include a second curved part (422) on which the axis (120) of the hinge is positioned when the door (2) is opened to the maximum opening angle (θ) (state of FIG. 2). The second curved part (422) may extend from the first curved part (421). The second curved part (422) may have a smaller radius of curvature than the first curved part (421).

[0349] When the position (c) of the rotation axis of the door is fixed (see Fig. 18(a)), the outer edge (533) of the door may deviate from the position of the side (51) of the door (2) when the door (2) is closed as the door is opened (533p of Fig. 18(a)).

[0350] In the case of the structure of the hinge axis (120) and hinge home (420) of the door (2) described above, the outer edge (533) of the door does not deviate from the position (533c) of the side (51) of the door (2) when the door (2) is closed, even when the door is opened, or the extent of deviation can be minimized.

[0351] Accordingly, in a situation where other furniture is placed next to the refrigerator, or the refrigerator is placed in a cabinet and the refrigerator door does not protrude forward relative to the other furniture or cabinet, the door may not interfere with the other furniture or cabinet even when opened.

[0352] However, in the present disclosure, the structure of the hinge axis (120) and hinge home (42) is not essential. For example, unlike the above, the position of the rotation axis of the door may be fixed.

[0353]

[0354] Hereinafter, the second to sixth embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 to 23. FIGS. 19 to 23 are enlarged views of a portion illustrated in FIG. 6, as in FIG. 7, and, to aid understanding, components located below the cross-section are not shown.

[0355] Hereinafter, a door of a refrigerator according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 19. The refrigerator according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the refrigerator according to the first embodiment described above in its door panel (30). Hereinafter, descriptions of features identical to those of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0356] Referring to Fig. 19, the door panel (30) may be made of a metal material. The door panel (30) may include a body (301) forming the front surface.

[0357] The door panel (30) may include a side end (303) extending rearward from the body (301).

[0358] The door panel (30) may include a bending portion (305) bent inward at the rear end of the side end (303).

[0359] A magnet (36) can be attached to the back surface of the body (301) of the door panel (30). The magnet (36) can be attached to the back surface of the body (301) of the door panel (30) by an adhesive member (37).

[0360] The door panel (3) may be made of a magnetic material or may have a magnetic material provided on the back surface.

[0361] The magnet (36) is placed in the groove (563) of the receiving portion (56) of the side deco (5) and can be combined with the receiving portion (56) by magnetic force. The side cover part (53) of the side deco (5) can cover at least a portion of the side end (303) of the door panel (30) from the side.

[0362] Unlike the above, the magnet (36) may be attached to the door panel (30) by magnetic force. In this case, the adhesive member (37) may be omitted. The magnet (36) may be directly coupled to the back surface of the door body (301) by magnetic force. The magnet (36) may be coupled to the receiving portion (56) without being attached or coupled to the door panel (30). By coupling the door body (301) to the magnet (36) arranged in the receiving portion (56), the door panel (30) may be coupled to the front of the door body (4).

[0363]

[0364] Hereinafter, a refrigerator door according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 20. The refrigerator according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the refrigerator according to the first embodiment described above in the way the door panel (3) and the door body (5) are joined. Hereinafter, descriptions of features identical to those of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0365] Referring to Fig. 20, the door body (40) does not include an inner panel. The space between the extensions of the side decos (5) arranged on both sides of the door body (40) can be opened forward.

[0366] The door panel (3) can cover the space open to the front.

[0367] The above door panel (3) covers the front, forming a closed space inside the door, and the space can be filled with foam to fill the insulation material.

[0368] That is, the interior space of the door where insulation is provided can be provided together with the door body and the door panel.

[0369] As the foam expands, the door panel (3) and the door body (4) can be combined.

[0370] However, in order to temporarily fix the door panel (3) and the door body (4) before filling the foam, an adhesive member (407) may be attached to the extension (57) of the side deco (5). The door panel (3) may be attached to the side deco (5) through the adhesive member (407).

[0371] As described above with reference to FIG. 10, since the upper portion (457) of the front wall is arranged in the same line as the lower panel (351) in the vertical direction, in the case of the third embodiment that does not have an inner panel, the door panel can be attached by attaching an adhesive member to the upper portion (457) of the front wall.

[0372] In addition, as described above with reference to FIG. 12, since the front end of the rib (439) is arranged on the same line in the vertical direction as the upper panel (331) of the upper bracket (33), in the case of the third embodiment, the door panel (3) can be attached by attaching an adhesive member to the rib (439).

[0373] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 7 and FIG. 20, the door body (40) in the third embodiment is identical to the door body (4) in the first embodiment except for the inner panel, and the position of the door panel (3) with respect to the door body (40) is identical to that in the first embodiment.

[0374] Therefore, parts and production facilities can be shared to manufacture the refrigerator according to the first embodiment and the refrigerator according to the second embodiment.

[0375]

[0376] Referring now to FIG. 21, a refrigerator door according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The refrigerator according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the refrigerator according to the first embodiment described above in the shape of the inner panel (410). Hereinafter, descriptions of features identical to those of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0377] Referring to Fig. 21, the inner panel (410) includes a step part (417) that is stepped rearward from the side rim (415), and the cover part (411) can be stepped rearward from the step part (417).

[0378] Through this, the strength of the inner panel (410) in the front-rear direction can be improved.

[0379]

[0380] Hereinafter, a refrigerator door according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 22. The refrigerator according to the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure differs in the structure of the side deco (50) compared to the refrigerator according to the first embodiment described above. Hereinafter, descriptions of features identical to those of the refrigerator according to the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0381] Since the adhesive and magnet are light in weight, it is not difficult to attach the adhesive and magnet to the correct position on the back of the door panel, but it is not easy to place the relatively heavy and large door panel in the correct position on the door body.

[0382] Referring to Fig. 22, a guide (54) may be provided to guide the position of the magnet (36) in the receiving portion (56) of the side deco (50).

[0383] For example, the receiving portion (56) of the side deco (50) may include a guide groove (542) into which the rear end of the magnet is inserted.

[0384] Alternatively, a guide member (541) that guides the position of the magnet in the receiving portion (56) of the side deco (50) may be provided.

[0385]

[0386] Hereinafter, a refrigerator door according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 23. The refrigerator according to the sixth embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the refrigerator according to the first embodiment described above in that it further includes a reinforcing member (569).

[0387] Referring to Fig. 23, a reinforcing member (567) may be provided in the receiving portion (56). The reinforcing member (567) may be the magnetic material described above.

[0388] The magnet (36) can be coupled to the reinforcing member (567).

[0389] Accordingly, the strength of the receiving portion (56) can be improved. In addition, the side deco (5) can be composed of a material other than a magnetic material.

[0390]

[0391] Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any or all of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

[0392] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

[0393] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in any respect and should be considered illustrative only. The scope of the present invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cabinet having a storage compartment open to the front; A door body positioned at the front of the cabinet to open and close the storage room; and Includes a door panel that is coupled to the front surface of the door body, The above door panel: The back surface facing the front surface of the above door body; and Including a magnet attached to the above back surface, The above door body includes a side decoration, and the side decoration: A side wall providing the side of the above door body; and Includes a front portion extending inward in the width direction of the door body from the side wall, A refrigerator in which the magnet is attached to the front part of the side deco.

2. In paragraph 1, The front part of the above side deco: A receiving portion extending from the side wall and forming an outer edge of the front surface of the door body, and coupled to the magnet; and A refrigerator including an extension portion extending inwardly in the width direction of the door from the receiving portion.

3. In paragraph 2, A refrigerator in which the front part of the above side deco has a step between the receiving part and the extension part.

4. In paragraph 2, The above-mentioned receiving portion is positioned behind the above-mentioned extension portion, and a groove is formed between the side wall of the side deco and the above-mentioned extension portion. A refrigerator in which the magnet is placed in the groove.

5. In paragraph 2, The above door body further includes an inner panel that provides the front surface of the door body and is coupled to the front portion of the side deco, The extension of the above side deco is placed at the rear of the inner panel, A refrigerator in which the side deco receiving portion is positioned on the outside of the inner panel in the width direction of the door.

6. In paragraph 5, The inner panel includes a side rim that overlaps the extension of the side deco in the front and rear directions, A refrigerator in which the side rim and the back surface of the door panel are in contact with each other or are spaced apart by a gap smaller than the thickness of the door panel.

7. In paragraph 6, A refrigerator wherein the inner panel further includes a cover part stepped rearward from the side rim.

8. In paragraph 1, The side walls of the above side deco are: An outer portion facing outward in the width direction of the above door body; and Including an inner portion that is bent inwardly in the width direction of the door body and extends rearward from the front end of the side of the door body, A refrigerator in which the front part of the above door body extends from the rear end of the inner part.

9. In paragraph 1, The side wall of the above side deco includes a side cover part that protrudes further forward than the front part of the above side deco, A refrigerator in which the side cover part overlaps at least a portion of the door panel in the width direction of the door.

10. In paragraph 1, The above door body: An inner panel that provides the front surface of the door body and is joined to the front part of the side deco; and Further including a lower cap deco that provides the lower surface of the above door body, The above lower cap deco: A bottom providing the lower surface of the above door body; A front wall having a lower portion extending upward from the floor and positioned rearward of the front end of the floor, and an upper portion extending upward from the lower portion and inserted into the rear of the inner panel and positioned forward of the lower portion; and It includes a connecting rib extending upward from the floor between the front end of the floor and the front wall of the lower cap deco, The door panel further includes a lower bracket attached to the lower portion of the rear surface of the door panel and having a lower portion spaced rearward from the lower portion of the door panel, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned connecting rib is inserted between the lower end of the door panel and the lower end of the lower bracket.

11. In paragraph 10, The inner panel further includes a lower rim that forms the lower portion of the inner panel and overlaps the upper portion of the front wall of the lower cap deco in the front-back direction. A refrigerator wherein the lower rim contacts the back surface of the door panel or is spaced rearward from the door panel by a gap smaller than the thickness of the door panel.

12. In paragraph 1, The above door panel includes an upper bracket attached to the upper portion of the rear surface of the door panel, The above upper bracket includes a coupler that protrudes rearward and has a latch hole that is open upward and downward, The above door body includes an upper cap deco arranged on the upper part of the door body, The above upper cap deco: a front wall facing forward and having a hole into which the coupler is inserted; and A refrigerator comprising a cover that provides the upper surface of the door body, the cover having a latch that protrudes downward and is inserted into the latch hole of the coupler.

13. Cabinet having a storage compartment open to the front; A door body positioned at the front of the cabinet to open and close the storage room; and A door panel comprising a back surface facing the front surface of the door body and a magnet attached to the back surface, and coupled to the front surface of the door body; The front surface of the door body includes a receiving portion that forms an edge of the front surface of the door body by contacting the side surface of the door body and is sunken rearward to form a groove. A refrigerator in which the magnet is placed in a groove of the receiving portion and is coupled to the receiving portion by magnetic force.

14. In paragraph 13, The above door body: A side deco including a side wall providing a side surface of the door body and a front portion extending inwardly in the width direction of the door body from the side wall; and Including an inner panel providing the front surface of the above door body, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned receiving portion is formed in the side deco and is placed on the outer side of the inner panel.

15. Cabinet having a storage compartment open to the front; A door body that is arranged in front of the cabinet and opens and closes the storage room, the door body including an inner panel facing forward, a rear panel facing rearward, and a side deco that faces sideways and is connected to the inner panel and the rear panel; and A door panel including a back surface facing the front of the door body and a magnet attached to the back surface, and coupled to the door body at the front of the door body, The above side decoration is: A side wall providing the side of the above door body; A receiving portion extending inwardly in the width direction of the door body from the side wall and facing forward; and It includes a connecting portion that extends inwardly in the width direction of the door body from the receiving portion and faces forward and is connected to the inner panel, The above-mentioned receiving portion is recessed rearwardly from the above-mentioned joining portion to form a groove between the front portion of the side wall and the above-mentioned joining portion, A refrigerator in which the magnet is placed in a groove of the receiving portion and is coupled to the receiving portion by magnetic force.

Images