Refrigerator

Abstract

This refrigerator comprises: a main body in which a storage compartment is provided; a thermoelectric element provided on an upper wall of the main body and including a heating portion and a heat absorbing portion provided on the opposite side to the heating portion; a heat dissipation sink provided to be in contact with the heating portion; a cooling sink provided to be in contact with the heat absorbing portion; and a sink insulating member provided on the outside the thermoelectric element in order to provide insulation between the heat dissipation sink and the cooling sink. The cooling sink comprises: a cooling plate including an upper surface, a lower surface, and a side surface portion provided between the upper surface and the lower surface; a protrusion portion protruding up from the upper surface of the cooling plate toward the heat absorbing portion; and a plurality of cooling fins protruding down from the lower surface of the cooling plate and forming a cooling flow path through which air can pass. The sink insulating member is provided to cover at least a portion of the side surface portion of the cooling plate.

Description

refrigerator

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

[0002] A refrigerator is a home appliance that keeps food fresh by having a main body having a storage compartment and a cold air supply device provided to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0003] A thermoelectric cooling device that generates heat and cooling through the Peltier effect can be used as a cold air supply device for a refrigerator. The thermoelectric cooling device may include a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element has a heat-generating part formed on one side and a heat-absorbing part formed on the opposite side, and when current is applied to the thermoelectric element, a heat-generating action may occur in the heat-generating part and a heat-absorbing action may occur in the heat-absorbing part.

[0004] The thermoelectric cooling device may be equipped with a heat sink, a cooling sink, a heat dissipation fan, a cooling fan, a heat dissipation duct, and a cooling duct, etc., to increase the efficiency of cooling the storage room through the thermoelectric cooling device.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator comprising a thermoelectric cooling device mounted on one wall of the main body.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator capable of reducing cold air leakage between a thermoelectric element assembly of a thermoelectric cooling device and one wall of a main body.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a refrigerator capable of reducing cold air leakage through a thermoelectric element, a heat dissipation sink, and a cooling sink when the thermoelectric cooling device is not in operation.

[0008] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] A refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure comprises a main body having a storage compartment provided therein, a thermoelectric element provided on the upper wall of the main body and including a heating element and a heat-absorbing element provided on the opposite side of the heating element, a heat-dissipating sink provided to contact the heating element, a cooling sink provided to contact the heat-absorbing element, and a sink insulation member provided on the outer side of the thermoelectric element to insulate between the heat-dissipating sink and the cooling sink. The cooling sink comprises a cooling plate including an upper surface, a lower surface, and a side portion provided between the upper surface and the lower surface, a protrusion protruding upward from the upper surface of the cooling plate toward the heat-absorbing element, and a plurality of cooling fins protruding downward from the lower surface of the cooling plate and forming a cooling channel through which air can pass. The sink insulation member is provided to cover at least a portion of the side portion of the cooling plate.

[0010] A refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure comprises a main body having a storage compartment provided therein; a thermoelectric element mounted on the upper wall of the main body and comprising a heating element provided on the upper side and a heat absorption element provided on the lower side; a heat sink disposed above the thermoelectric element, comprising a heat dissipation plate in contact with the heating element and a plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding upward from the heat dissipation plate and forming a heat dissipation channel through which air can pass; a cooling sink disposed below the thermoelectric element, comprising a cooling plate, a protrusion protruding upward from the cooling plate and in contact with the heat absorption element, and a plurality of cooling fins protruding downward from the cooling plate and forming a cooling channel through which air can pass; and a sink insulation member provided on the outer side of the thermoelectric element to insulate between the heat dissipation plate and the cooling plate. The sink insulation member comprises a cover portion provided to surround the edge of the cooling plate and having at least one portion located below the upper surface of the cooling plate.

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

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

[0013] FIG. 3 is a drawing of the upper part of a storage room according to one embodiment, viewed from below.

[0014] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along the line AA' shown in Figure 1.

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

[0016] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along the line BB' shown in Figure 1.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a heat dissipation duct according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a heat dissipation duct and a heat dissipation fan separated according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric element assembly and a duct body according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a sink insulation member and a cooling sink separated according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a sink insulation member and a cooling sink separated according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view along the line DD' shown in FIG. 8.

[0023] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view along the line EE' shown in FIG. 8.

[0024] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment mounted on one wall of a main body.

[0025] FIG. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment mounted on one wall of a main body.

[0026] FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the combination of a thermoelectric element assembly and a duct body according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the combination of a thermoelectric element assembly and a duct body according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a sink insulation member, a duct body, a thermoelectric element, a thermoelectric element sealing part, and a heat dissipation sink separated according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a sink insulation member, a duct body, a thermoelectric element, a thermoelectric element sealing part, and a heat dissipation sink separated according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view along the FF' line shown in FIG. 8.

[0031] FIG. 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the combination of a thermoelectric element assembly and a duct body according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 22 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment mounted on one wall of a main body.

[0033] The various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0034] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0035] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0036] In the present disclosure, each of the phrases such as “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.

[0037] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0038] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another corresponding component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0039] Additionally, terms such as 'front,' 'rear,' 'top,' 'bottom,' 'side,' 'left,' 'right,' 'top,' and 'bottom' used in this disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and location of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0040] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this disclosure, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0041] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0042] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0043] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a main body.

[0044] The "main body" may include an inner body, an outer body positioned on the outside of the inner body, and an insulating material provided between the inner body and the outer body.

[0045] The "inner body" may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or liner forming a storage chamber. The inner body may be formed as a single body or may be formed by assembling multiple plates. The "outer body" may form the exterior of the main body and may be coupled to the outer side of the inner body so that an insulating material is disposed between the inner body and the outer body.

[0046] The "insulating material" can insulate the interior and exterior of the storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room is maintained at a set appropriate temperature without being affected by the external environment. According to one embodiment, the insulating material may include a foamed insulating material. The foamed insulating material can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, which is a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the insulation material may additionally include a vacuum insulation material in addition to a foam insulation material, or the insulation material may consist solely of a vacuum insulation material instead of a foam insulation material. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation material or vacuum insulation material described above and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0048] The "storage room" may include a space defined by an internal structure. The storage room may further include an internal structure defining a space corresponding to the storage room. Various items such as food, medicine, and cosmetics may be stored in the storage room, and the storage room may be formed so that at least one side is open to allow for the retrieval and retrieval of items.

[0049] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When two or more storage compartments are formed in a refrigerator, each storage compartment may have a different use and may be maintained at a different temperature. To this end, each storage compartment may be partitioned from one another by a partition containing insulation.

[0050] The storage room may be provided to be maintained within an appropriate temperature range according to its intended use and may include a "refrigeration room," "freezing room," or "variable temperature room" distinguished according to its intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature suitable for refrigerated storage of goods, and the freezer room may be maintained at a temperature suitable for frozen storage of goods. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling goods to a temperature that does not freeze them; for example, the refrigerator room may be maintained within a range of 0 degrees Celsius to 7 degrees Celsius. "Freezing" may mean cooling goods to freeze them or to maintain them in a frozen state; for example, the freezer room may be maintained within a range of -20 degrees Celsius to -1 degree Celsius. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator room or a freezer room, with or without the user's choice.

[0051] Storage rooms may be referred to by various names, such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice-making room," in addition to terms like "refrigeration room," "freezing room," and "variable temperature room." The terms "refrigeration room," "freezing room," and "variable temperature room" used below should be understood as encompassing storage rooms with corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include at least one door configured to open and close one side of the storage compartment. The door may be provided to open and close each of one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be provided to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed to be rotatable or sliding on the front of the main body.

[0053] The “door” may be configured to seal the storage room when the door is closed. The door may include insulation material, similar to the main body, to insulate the storage room when the door is closed.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door and facing the storage room, an upper cap, a lower cap, and a door insulation material provided inside the same.

[0055] A gasket may be provided on the edge of the door inner panel to seal the storage compartment by adhering to the front of the main body when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to allow a door basket for storing items to be mounted.

[0056] According to 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 a door insulation material provided inside them.

[0057] Refrigerators can be classified into French Door Type, Side-by-side Type, BMF (Bottom Mounted Freezer), TMF (Top Mounted Freezer), or 1-door refrigerators depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device arranged to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0059] The "cold air supply device" may include a machine, apparatus, electronic device, and / or a system combining these that can generate cold air and guide cold air to cool a storage room.

[0060] According to one embodiment, a cold 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 supply device may include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. According to one embodiment, the cold supply device may include a semiconductor such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage chamber through heat generation and cooling action via the Peltier effect.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a machine room arranged to accommodate at least some parts belonging to a cold air supply device.

[0062] The "machine room" may be configured to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated from components placed in the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to communicate with the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed inside the machine room.

[0063] According to 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 opening the door.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include an ice-making device configured to generate ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray that stores water, an ice-removing device that separates ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket that stores the ice generated from the ice-making tray.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0066] The "control unit" may include a memory that stores or remembers a program and / or data for controlling a refrigerator, and a processor that outputs a control signal for controlling a cold air supply device, etc., according to the program and / or data stored in the memory.

[0067] The memory stores or records various information, data, commands, programs, etc., necessary for the operation of the refrigerator. The memory can store temporary data generated while generating control signals to control the components included in the refrigerator. The memory may include at least one of volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0068] 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 operation of an artificial intelligence model. Additionally, the processor may include a central processing unit, a graphics processing unit (GPU), etc. The processor can generate control signals to control the operation of the cold air supply unit. For example, the processor can receive temperature information of the storage compartment from a temperature sensor and generate a cooling control signal to control the operation of the cold air supply unit based on the temperature information of the storage compartment.

[0069] Additionally, the processor can process user input of the user interface and control the operation of the user interface according to programs and / or data stored in memory. The user interface may be provided using an input interface and an output interface. The processor can receive user input from the user interface. Additionally, the processor can transmit display control signals and image data to the user interface to display an image on the user interface in response to the user input.

[0070] 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 sub-processor. The memory may include one or more memory units.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control all components included in the refrigerator, and may include a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories that individually control the components of the refrigerator. For example, the refrigerator may include a processor and memory that control the operation of a cold air supply device according to the output of a temperature sensor. Additionally, the refrigerator may separately provide a processor and memory that control the operation of a user interface according to user input.

[0072] The communication module can communicate with external devices, such as servers, mobile devices, and other home appliances, through nearby Access Points (APs). The Access Point (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 be connected to the server through the Wide Area Network (WAN).

[0073] The input interface may include keys, touchscreens, microphones, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0074] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface can output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0075] Meanwhile, terms such as "front-back direction," "left-right direction," "upper side," and "lower side" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0076] For example, the X direction can be defined as the forward-backward direction. For example, the Y direction can be defined as the lateral direction. For example, the Z direction can be defined as the up-down direction. For example, the +X direction can be defined as forward and the -X direction as backward. For example, the +Y direction can be defined as left and the -Y direction as right. For example, the +Z direction can be defined as upward and the -Z direction as downward.

[0077] Hereinafter, an embodiment according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0078] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the refrigerator door in an open state according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a view of the upper part of a storage compartment according to one embodiment, viewed from below. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view along the line AA' indicated in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of area C indicated in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view along the line BB' indicated in FIG. 2.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, the refrigerator (1) may include a main body (100), a storage room (10) provided inside the main body (100), and a door (20) provided to open and close the storage room (10).

[0080] The main body (100) may include an inner body (101). A storage room (10) may be provided inside the inner body (101). The inner surface of the inner body (101) may form the inner wall of the storage room (10).

[0081] The inner layer (101) may be configured to include a plastic material. For example, the inner layer (101) may be manufactured by a vacuum forming process. For example, the inner layer (101) may be manufactured by an injection molding process.

[0082] The main body (100) may include an outer casing (102). The outer casing (102) may form the exterior of the refrigerator (1). The outer casing (102) may be provided on the outside of the inner casing (101). For example, the outer casing (102) may be coupled to the outside of the inner casing (101).

[0083] The outer casing (102) may have a box shape with an open front. The outer casing (102) may form the upper and lower surfaces, left and right sides, and rear of the refrigerator (1).

[0084] The outer casing (102) may be configured to include a metal material. For example, the outer casing (102) may be manufactured by processing a steel plate material.

[0085] The main body (100) may include a plurality of walls (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170). The plurality of walls (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170) may form a storage room (10).

[0086] A plurality of walls (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170) may include an upper wall (110), a lower wall (120), a left wall (130), a right wall (140), and a rear wall (150). The upper wall (110), lower wall (120), left wall (130), right wall (140), and rear wall (150) may each form the upper surface (+Z direction), lower surface (-Z direction), left side (+Y direction), right side (-Y direction), and rear surface (-X direction) of the main body (100).

[0087] Each of the upper wall (110), lower wall (120), left wall (130), right wall (140), and rear wall (150) can be formed by the combination of an inner surface (101) and an outer surface (102). The inner surface of each of the upper wall (110), lower wall (120), left wall (130), right wall (140), and rear wall (150) can be formed by the inner surface (101). The outer surface of each of the upper wall (110), lower wall (120), left wall (130), right wall (140), and rear wall (150) can be formed by the outer surface (102).

[0088] The storage room (10) may be provided to accommodate items. The storage room (10) may be formed with an open front so that items can be put in or taken out.

[0089] The storage room (10) may be provided in multiple units. The multiple storage rooms (10) may include a first storage room (11), a second storage room (12), and a third storage room (13). The first storage room (11) may be provided on the upper part of the main body (100), and the second storage room (12) and the third storage room (13) may be provided on the lower part of the main body (100). For example, the first storage room (11) may be a refrigerator room, the second storage room (12) may be a freezer room, and the third storage room (13) may be a variable temperature room.

[0090] A plurality of walls (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170) may include a horizontal partition (160) and a vertical partition (170) provided to partition a first storage room (11), a second storage room (12), and a third storage room (13). The horizontal partition (160) may partition the first storage room (11) from the second storage room (12) and the third storage room (13). The vertical partition (170) may partition the second storage room (12) from the third storage room (13).

[0091] A door (20) may be provided to open and close the storage room (10). Specifically, the door (20) may be provided to open and close the open front of the storage room (10). The door (20) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (100) to open and close the storage room (10).

[0092] A plurality of doors (20) may be provided. The plurality of doors (20) may include a first door (21), a second door (22), a third door (23), and a fourth door (24). The first door (21) and the second door (22) can open and close the first storage room (11), the third door (23) can open and close the second storage room (12), and the fourth door (24) can open and close the third storage room (13). Each of the first door (21), the second door (22), the third door (23), and the fourth door (24) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (100).

[0093] The refrigerator (1) may include a rotating bar (30). The rotating bar (30) may be provided to cover the gap formed between the first door (21) and the second door (22) when the first door (21) and the second door (22) are closed. The rotating bar (30) may have a rod shape formed long in the vertical direction. The rotating bar (30) may also be referred to as a pillar or a mullion.

[0094] The rotating bar (30) may be rotatably provided on either the first door (21) or the second door (22). Although the drawing shows the rotating bar (30) provided on the first door (21), the rotating bar (30) may also be provided on the second door (22).

[0095] The refrigerator (1) may include a shelf (41). The shelf (41) may be provided to place food or items on. The shelf (41) may be provided inside the storage room (10). Although the drawing shows the shelf (41) being provided only in the first storage room (11), the shelf (41) may also be provided in the second storage room (12) or the third storage room (13).

[0096] The refrigerator (1) may include a storage container (42). The storage container (42) may be provided to store food or items inside. The storage container (42) may be provided inside the storage room (10).

[0097] The door (20) may include a gasket (51). The gasket (51) may be provided on the back surface of the door (20). When the door (20) is closed, the gasket (51) may be in close contact with the front surface of the main body (100). When the door (20) is closed, the gasket (51) may seal the gap formed between the door (20) and the main body (100).

[0098] The door (20) may include a dike (52). The dike (52) may protrude rearward from the back of the door (20). The dike (52) may be equipped with a door shelf (53) provided to accommodate food or items.

[0099] Although the number and arrangement of storage rooms (10) and the number and arrangement of doors (20) have been described above, there are no limitations on the number and arrangement of storage rooms (10) and the number and arrangement of doors (20) of the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0100] The refrigerator (1) may include a top cover (200). The top cover (200) may be attached to the upper wall (110) of the main body (100). For example, the top cover (200) may be provided to cover a hinge device connecting the door (20) and the main body (100), or various electrical components.

[0101] The refrigerator (1) may include a thermoelectric cooling device (300) configured to cool the storage room (10). For example, the thermoelectric cooling device (300) may be configured to cool the first storage room (11).

[0102] The thermoelectric cooling device (300) may be provided on one of the plurality of walls (110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170). For example, the thermoelectric cooling device (300) may be provided on the upper wall (110). In other words, the thermoelectric cooling device (300) may be provided on the upper side of the first storage room (11). Specifically, the thermoelectric cooling device (300) may be provided on the rear side of the top cover (200).

[0103] Although the drawings only show an embodiment in which the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided on the upper wall (110), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. That is, depending on the embodiment, the thermoelectric cooling device may also be provided on the left wall (130), the right wall (140), and the rear wall (150), etc. For convenience of explanation, only the embodiment in which the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided on the upper wall (110) will be examined below.

[0104] The thermoelectric cooling device (300) may include a thermoelectric element assembly (400). The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may be configured to cool the storage room (10) using a thermoelectric element (410). Specifically, the thermoelectric element assembly (400) may be configured to cool the first storage room (11).

[0105] The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a thermoelectric element (410). The thermoelectric element (410) may be a semiconductor device that converts thermal energy into electrical energy using the thermoelectric effect, and may be referred to as a thermoelectric semiconductor device, a Peltier device, etc.

[0106] The thermoelectric element (410) may be provided on one wall (110) where the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided. For example, the thermoelectric element (410) may be provided on the upper wall (110). In other words, the thermoelectric element (410) may be provided on the upper side of the first storage room (11).

[0107] The thermoelectric element (410) may include a heating portion (410a) and a heat absorption portion (410b). When current is applied to the thermoelectric element (410), a heating action may occur in the heating portion (410a) and a heat absorption action may occur in the heat absorption portion (410b).

[0108] A heating portion (410a) may be provided on one side of the thermoelectric element (410), and a heat absorption portion (410b) may be provided on the other side of the thermoelectric element (410). That is, the heating portion (410a) and the heat absorption portion (410b) may be provided on opposite sides. For example, the heating portion (410a) may be provided on the upper side of the thermoelectric element (410), and the heat absorption portion (410b) may be provided on the lower side of the thermoelectric element (410).

[0109] The heating element (410a) may face the outside of the main body (100), and the heat absorption element (410b) may face the inside of the storage room (10). For example, the heating element (410a) may face the outside of the main body (100), and the heat absorption element (410b) may face the inside of the first storage room (11). For example, the heating element (410a) may be positioned to face the top of the thermoelectric element (410), and the heat absorption element (410b) may be positioned to face the bottom of the thermoelectric element (410). Accordingly, air heated by exchanging heat with the heating element (410a) can be discharged to the outside of the refrigerator (1), and air cooled by exchanging heat with the heat absorption element (410b) can be supplied to the storage room (10).

[0110] The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a heat dissipation sink (420). The heat dissipation sink (420) may be provided to contact the heating element (410a) from the outside of the main body (100). For example, the heat dissipation sink (420) may contact the upper surface of the thermoelectric element (410) from the upper side of the thermoelectric element (410). Through this configuration, heat exchange between the heating element (410a) and the air outside the main body (100) can be achieved more efficiently.

[0111] The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a cooling sink (430). The cooling sink (430) may be arranged to be in contact with the heat-absorbing portion (410b) inside the main body (100). In other words, the cooling sink (430) may be arranged to be in contact with the heat-absorbing portion (410b) inside the storage chamber (10). For example, the cooling sink (430) may be in contact with the lower surface of the thermoelectric element (410) at the lower side of the thermoelectric element (410). Through this configuration, heat exchange between the heat-absorbing portion (410b) and the air inside the storage chamber (10) can be achieved more efficiently.

[0112] The thermoelectric cooling device (300) may include a heat dissipation fan (500). The heat dissipation fan (500) may be configured to blow air toward the heat dissipation sink (420) from one side of the heat dissipation sink (420). Through this configuration, heat exchange between the heat dissipation sink (420) and the air outside the main body (100) can be achieved more efficiently.

[0113] The heat dissipation fan (500) may be a centrifugal fan that draws in air in the axial direction and discharges it in the radial direction. That is, the heat dissipation fan (500) may be configured to draw in air through the center of the heat dissipation fan (500) and discharge air in the radial direction of the heat dissipation fan (500).

[0114] The thermoelectric cooling device (300) may include a heat dissipation duct (600). The heat dissipation duct (600) may be provided to guide air blown by a heat dissipation fan (500) to a heat dissipation sink (420).

[0115] A heat dissipation duct (600) can be attached to a wall (110) on which a thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided. Specifically, the heat dissipation duct (600) can be attached to the outer surface of the wall (110) on which the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided. For example, the heat dissipation duct (600) can be attached to the outer surface of the upper wall (110). A heat dissipation sink (420) and a heat dissipation fan (500) can be accommodated inside the heat dissipation duct (600).

[0116] The heat dissipation duct (600) may include a first air inlet (621) provided to introduce air from outside the refrigerator (1) into the heat dissipation duct (600), and a first air outlet (633) provided to discharge air that has exchanged heat with the heat dissipation sink (420) to the outside of the heat dissipation duct (600). That is, air from outside the refrigerator (1) can be introduced into the heat dissipation duct (600) through the first air inlet (621), and the air introduced into the heat dissipation duct (600) can be discharged to the outside of the heat dissipation duct (600) through the first air outlet (633) after exchanging heat with the heat dissipation sink (420).

[0117] The thermoelectric cooling device (300) may include a cooling fan (700). The cooling fan (700) may be configured to blow air toward the cooling sink (430) from one side of the cooling sink (430). Through this configuration, heat exchange between the cooling sink (430) and the air in the storage room (10) can be achieved more efficiently.

[0118] The thermoelectric cooling device (300) may include a cooling duct (800). The cooling duct (800) may be provided to guide air blown by a cooling fan (700) to a cooling sink (430).

[0119] A cooling duct (800) can be attached to a wall (110) where a thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided. Specifically, the cooling duct (800) can be attached to the inner side of the wall (110) where the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided. For example, the cooling duct (800) can be attached to the inner side of the upper wall (110). A cooling sink (430) and a cooling fan (700) can be accommodated inside the cooling duct (800).

[0120] The cooling duct (800) may include a second air inlet (801) provided to introduce air from the storage room (10) into the interior of the cooling duct (800), and a second air outlet (802) provided to discharge air that has exchanged heat with the cooling sink (430) into the storage room (10). For example, the second air inlet (801) may be provided to introduce air from the first storage room (11) into the interior of the cooling duct (800), and the second air outlet (802) may be provided to discharge air that has exchanged heat with the cooling sink (420) into the first storage room (11). After the air introduced into the cooling duct (800) is cooled by exchanging heat with the cooling sink (430), it may be discharged into the storage room (10) through the second air outlet (802).

[0121] Referring to FIG. 4, the refrigerator (1) may include a refrigeration cycle device to cool the storage room through a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle device may include a compressor (2), a condenser (not shown), an expansion device (not shown), and an evaporator (3). The evaporator (3) may be provided at the rear of the second storage room (12) and the third storage room (13).

[0122] The refrigerator (1) may include an evaporator duct (60, 70) that guides cold air generated in an evaporator (3). The evaporator duct (60, 70) may include a first evaporator duct (60) and a second evaporator duct (70). The first evaporator duct (60) may be provided at the rear of the second storage room (12) and the third storage room (13). The second evaporator duct (70) may be provided at the rear of the first storage room (11).

[0123] The refrigerator (1) may include an evaporator fan (80) provided inside the first evaporator duct (60). Cold air generated in the evaporator (3) may be introduced into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) by the evaporator fan (80). Cold air introduced into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) may be discharged to the second storage room (12) or the third storage room (13) through a cold air outlet (not shown) formed on the front. Additionally, cold air introduced into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) may be guided to the internal flow path (71) of the second evaporator duct (70).

[0124] The first evaporator duct (60) may include a damper (61). The damper (61) may be provided to control the supply of cold air inside the first evaporator duct (60) to the second evaporator duct (70).

[0125] The refrigerator (1) may include a connecting duct (90). The connecting duct (90) may be provided to connect the first evaporator duct (60) and the second evaporator duct (70).

[0126] As described above, cold air introduced into the interior of the first evaporator duct (60) can be guided into the internal flow path (71) of the second evaporator duct (70). Cold air introduced into the internal flow path (71) of the second evaporator duct (70) can be supplied to the first storage room (11) through the cold air outlet (72) formed on the front of the second evaporator duct (70).

[0127] However, unlike the above embodiment, the cold air generated in the evaporator (3) may be supplied directly to the second evaporator duct (70) without passing through the first evaporator duct (60). Additionally, a separate evaporator may be provided at the rear of the first storage room (11) so that the above evaporator may be configured to directly supply cold air to the second evaporator duct (70).

[0128] As such, since the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a thermoelectric cooling device (300) and a refrigeration cycle device for cooling the storage room (10), the method of supplying cold air to the storage room (10) may include a first method of supplying only cold air generated by the thermoelectric cooling device (300), a second method of supplying only cold air generated by the refrigeration cycle device, and a third method of supplying both cold air generated by the thermoelectric cooling device (300) and cold air generated by the refrigeration cycle device.

[0129] As such, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator may include a thermoelectric cooling device (300) and a refrigeration cycle device, but is not limited thereto, and the refrigerator (1) may include only the thermoelectric cooling device (300).

[0130] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a heat dissipation duct according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a heat dissipation duct and a heat dissipation fan separated according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a thermoelectric element assembly and a duct body according to one embodiment.

[0131] Referring to FIGS. 4 through 9, the thermoelectric cooling device (300) may include a thermoelectric element assembly (400), a heat dissipation fan (500), and a heat dissipation duct (600). A heat dissipation sink (420) of the thermoelectric element assembly (400) and a heat dissipation fan (500) may be accommodated inside the heat dissipation duct (600).

[0132] As described above, the thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a thermoelectric element (410), a heat dissipation sink (420), and a cooling sink (430). The heat dissipation sink (420) may be arranged to be in contact with the heat-generating portion (410a) of the thermoelectric element (410), and the cooling sink (430) may be arranged to be in contact with the heat-absorbing portion (410b) of the thermoelectric element (410). For example, the heat dissipation sink (420) may be placed above the thermoelectric element (410), and the cooling sink (430) may be placed below the thermoelectric element (410).

[0133] The thermoelectric element (410) may include a thermoelectric element section (411). A heating section (410a) may be provided on one side of the thermoelectric element section (411), and a heat absorption section (410b) may be provided on the other side of the thermoelectric element section (411). For example, the heating section (410a) may be provided on the upper surface of the thermoelectric element section (411), and the heat absorption section (410b) may be provided on the lower surface of the thermoelectric element section (411).

[0134] The thermoelectric element (410) may include a wire section (412). The wire section (412) may be connected to the thermoelectric element section (411) to supply power to the thermoelectric element section (411).

[0135] The wire section (412) may include a first wire (412a) and a second wire (412b) that are spaced apart from each other. For example, the first wire (412a) and the second wire (412b) may be arranged spaced apart in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction).

[0136] A heat dissipation sink (420) may be provided for efficient heat exchange between the heat source (410a) and the air outside the main body (100). Accordingly, the heat dissipation sink (420) may be formed from a metal material with good thermal conductivity. For example, the heat dissipation sink (420) may be formed from aluminum or copper. The heat dissipation sink (420) may also be referred to as a hot sink, heat dissipation heat sink, hot heat sink, etc.

[0137] The heat dissipation sink (420) may include a heat dissipation plate (421). The heat dissipation plate (421) may be provided on one side of the heat-generating part (410a). For example, the heat dissipation plate (421) may be provided on the upper side of the heat-generating part (410a).

[0138] The heat dissipation plate (421) may include a first surface (421a) and a second surface (421b). The first surface (421a) and the second surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be provided on opposite sides of each other. For example, the first surface (421a) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be the lower surface (421a) of the heat dissipation plate (421), and the second surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be the upper surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421).

[0139] For example, the heat dissipation plate (421) may be provided in a roughly rectangular shape. However, there are no special restrictions on the shape of the heat dissipation plate (421).

[0140] The heat dissipation plate (421) may be provided to be in contact with the heat source (410a). Specifically, the first surface (421a) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be in contact with the heat source (410a). For example, the lower surface (421a) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be in contact with the heat source (410a).

[0141] The heat sink (420) may include heat fins (422). The heat fins (422) may protrude from the heat plate (421) to increase the heat transfer area of ​​the heat sink (420).

[0142] Specifically, the heat dissipation fin (422) may protrude in a first direction (D1) from the second surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421). For example, the heat dissipation fin (422) may protrude upward from the upper surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421).

[0143] The heat dissipation fins (422) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple heat dissipation fins (422) may form a heat dissipation channel (P1) through which air can pass. However, there is no specific limitation on the number of multiple heat dissipation fins (422).

[0144] A plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in a second direction (D2). For example, a plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in a front-rear direction (X-axis direction).

[0145] The heat dissipation channel (P1) can be extended in a direction that intersects with the direction in which the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) are arranged. That is, the heat dissipation channel (P1) can be extended in a third direction (D3) that intersects with the second direction (D2). For example, the heat dissipation channel (P1) can be extended in the left direction (+Y direction).

[0146] The heat sink (420) may include a first sensor mounting portion (423). The first sensor mounting portion (423) may be provided to mount a first sensor (not shown) to be described later.

[0147] The first sensor mounting portion (423) may be provided on any one of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422). Specifically, the first sensor mounting portion (423) may be provided on a heat dissipation fin (422) located at one end of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422). The first sensor mounting portion (423) may have a curved shape to form a space into which a first sensor (not shown), to be described later, can be inserted.

[0148] However, the shape or location of the first sensor mounting portion (423) is not limited thereto. Depending on the embodiment, the first sensor mounting portion may be provided on the heat dissipation plate (421) and may be provided separately from the heat dissipation sink (420).

[0149] A cooling sink (430) may be provided for efficient heat exchange between the heat absorption section (410b) and the air in the storage room (10). Accordingly, the cooling sink (430) may be formed from a metal material with good thermal conductivity. For example, the cooling sink (430) may be formed from aluminum or copper. The cooling sink (430) may also be referred to as a cold sink, cooling sink, cooling heat sink, cold heat sink, cooling heat sink, etc.

[0150] The cooling sink (430) may include a cooling plate (431). The cooling plate (431) may be provided on one side of the heat absorption section (410b). For example, the cooling plate (431) may be provided on the lower side of the heat absorption section (410b).

[0151] The cooling plate (431) may include a first surface (431a) and a second surface (431b). The first surface (431a) and the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) may be provided on opposite sides of each other. For example, the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431) may be the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431), and the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) may be the lower surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431).

[0152] The cooling plate (431) may include a side portion (431c). The side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431) may be provided between a first surface (431a) and a second surface (431b). For example, the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431) may be provided between an upper surface (431a) and a lower surface (431b). For example, the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431) may include four sides.

[0153] For example, the cooling plate (431) may be provided in a roughly rectangular shape. However, there are no special restrictions on the shape of the cooling plate (431).

[0154] The cooling sink (430) may include a protrusion (432). The protrusion (432) may protrude from a first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the protrusion (432) may protrude from an upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0155] Specifically, the protrusion (432) may protrude in a first direction (D1) toward the heat absorption portion (410b) from the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the protrusion (432) may protrude upward from the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0156] The protrusion (432) may be arranged to be in contact with the heat absorption portion (410b). For example, the top of the protrusion (432) may be in contact with the heat absorption portion (410b). Due to this configuration, heat absorbed from the storage chamber (10) by the cooling plate (431) and the cooling fin (433) described later can be transferred to the heat absorption portion (410b) through the protrusion (432).

[0157] The cooling sink (430) may include cooling fins (433). The cooling fins (433) may be provided to increase the heat transfer area of ​​the cooling sink (430).

[0158] The cooling fin (433) may protrude from the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the cooling fin (433) may protrude from the lower surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431).

[0159] Specifically, the cooling fin (433) may protrude from the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) in a fourth direction (D4) opposite to the first direction (D1). For example, the cooling fin (433) may protrude downward from the lower surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431).

[0160] The cooling fins (433) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple cooling fins (433) may form a cooling channel (P2) through which air can pass. However, there is no specific limitation on the number of cooling fins (433).

[0161] A plurality of cooling fins (433) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in a fifth direction (D5). For example, a plurality of cooling fins (433) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in a front-rear direction (X-axis direction). For example, the fifth direction (D5) in which the plurality of cooling fins (433) are arranged and the second direction (D2) in which the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) are arranged may be the same.

[0162] The cooling channel (P2) may extend in a direction that intersects with the direction in which the plurality of cooling fins (433) are arranged. That is, the cooling channel (P2) may extend in a sixth direction (D6) that intersects with the fifth direction (D5). For example, the cooling channel (P2) may extend in a right direction (-Y direction). For example, the direction in which the cooling channel (P2) extends and the direction in which the heat dissipation channel (P1) extends may be opposite to each other.

[0163] The cooling sink (430) may include a second sensor mounting portion (434). The second sensor mounting portion (434) may be provided to mount a second sensor (460) to be described later.

[0164] The second sensor mounting portion (434) may be provided on any one of the plurality of cooling fins (433). Specifically, the second sensor mounting portion (434) may be provided on a cooling fin (433) located at one end of the plurality of cooling fins (433). The second sensor mounting portion (434) may have a curved shape to form a space into which the second sensor (460), which will be described later, can be inserted.

[0165] However, the shape or location of the second sensor mounting portion (434) is not limited thereto. Depending on the embodiment, the second sensor mounting portion may be provided on the cooling plate (431) or the protrusion (432), and may be provided separately from the cooling sink (430).

[0166] The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a thermoelectric element sealing portion (440). The thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) may be provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element (410). In other words, the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) may be provided on the outside of the protrusion (432) of the cooling sink (430). The thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) may seal between the thermoelectric element (410), the heat dissipation sink (420), the cooling sink (430), and the duct body (610) to be described later.

[0167] The thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) may include a first sealing member (441) and a second sealing member (442). The first sealing member (441) and the second sealing member (442) may be coupled to each other. For example, the second sealing member (442) may be coupled to the upper side of the first sealing member (441). In other words, the first sealing member (441) may be coupled to the lower side of the second sealing member (442).

[0168] However, the shape of the thermoelectric element sealing part (440) is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the thermoelectric element sealing part (440) may be provided as a single unit.

[0169] The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a sink insulation member (450). The sink insulation member (450) may be provided to insulate between the heat dissipation sink (420) and the cooling sink (430). In other words, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided to insulate between the heat dissipation plate (421) and the cooling plate (431).

[0170] At least a portion of the sink insulation member (450) may be provided between the heat dissipation sink (420) and the cooling sink (430). In other words, at least a portion of the sink insulation member (450) may be provided between the heat dissipation plate (421) and the cooling plate (431). For example, the stepped portion (453) described later may be provided between the heat dissipation plate (421) and the cooling plate (431).

[0171] The sink insulation member (450) may be provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element (410). In other words, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440). In other words, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) of the duct body (610) to be described later.

[0172] The sink insulation member (450) may include a material with low thermal conductivity. For example, the sink insulation member (450) may include urethane, expanded polypropylene, and expanded polystyrene.

[0173] The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a first sensor (not shown). The first sensor (not shown) may be configured to detect the temperature within the heat dissipation duct (600). Based on the temperature within the heat dissipation duct (600) detected through the first sensor (not shown), the operation of the thermoelectric element (410) may be controlled, and the malfunction of the thermoelectric element (410) may be checked. The first sensor (not shown) may be mounted on a first sensor mounting portion (423). The first sensor (not shown) may also be referred to as a first temperature sensor (not shown).

[0174] The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a second sensor (460). The second sensor (460) may be configured to detect the temperature within the cooling duct (800). Based on the temperature within the cooling duct (800) detected through the second sensor (460), the operation of the thermoelectric element (410) may be controlled, and the malfunction of the thermoelectric element (410) may be checked. The second sensor (460) may be mounted on a second sensor mounting portion (434). The second sensor (460) may also be referred to as a second temperature sensor (460).

[0175] The thermoelectric element assembly (400) may include a sink fixing part (470). The sink fixing part (470) may be provided to fix the heat dissipation sink (420) and the cooling sink (430) to the duct body (610) to be described later.

[0176] The sink fixing part (470) may include a first fixing member (471). The first fixing member (471) may be provided on one side of the heat dissipation sink (420). For example, the first fixing member (471) may be provided on the upper side of the heat dissipation sink (420).

[0177] The first fixing member (471) may be seated on the second surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421). For example, the first fixing member (471) may be seated on the upper surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421). Specifically, the heat dissipation sink (420) may include a spaced-apart space formed between a plurality of heat dissipation fins (422), and the first fixing member (471) may be seated on the second surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421) within the spaced-apart space.

[0178] The first fixing member (471) may include a first insertion hole (471a). The first insertion hole (471a) may be provided so that a fastening member (473), which will be described later, passes through it.

[0179] The first insertion holes (471a) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple first insertion holes (471a) may be spaced apart from each other along the third direction (D3) in which the heat dissipation channel (P1) extends. For example, the multiple first insertion holes (471a) may be spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0180] Although only two first insertion holes (471a) are shown in the drawing, there is no particular limitation on the number of first insertion holes (471a). For example, three or more first insertion holes (471a) may be provided, or only one may be provided.

[0181] The sink fixing part (470) may include a second fixing member (472). The second fixing member (472) may be provided on one side of the cooling sink (430). For example, the second fixing member (472) may be provided on the lower side of the cooling sink (430).

[0182] The second fixing member (472) may be seated on the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the second fixing member (472) may be seated on the lower surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431). Specifically, the cooling sink (430) may include a spaced-apart space formed between a plurality of cooling fins (433), and the second fixing member (472) may be seated on the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) within the spaced-apart space.

[0183] The second fixing member (472) may include a second insertion hole (472a). The second insertion hole (472a) may be provided so that a fastening member (473), which will be described later, passes through it.

[0184] The second insertion holes (472a) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple second insertion holes (472a) may be spaced apart from each other along the sixth direction (D6) in which the cooling channel (P1) extends. For example, the multiple second insertion holes (472a) may be spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0185] Although only two second insertion holes (472a) are shown in the drawing, there is no specific limitation on the number of second insertion holes (472a). For example, three or more second insertion holes (472a) may be provided, or only one may be provided.

[0186] The sink fixing part (470) may include a fastening member (473). The fastening member (473) may be provided to penetrate the first insertion hole (471a) and the second insertion hole (472a), respectively. In other words, the fastening member (473) may be inserted into the first insertion hole (471a) and the second insertion hole (472a), respectively. Additionally, the fastening member (473) may be provided to penetrate the insertion holes formed in the cooling sink (420), the heat dissipation sink (430), and the duct body (610), respectively, as well as the groove (457) of the sink insulation member (450) to be described later. Through this configuration, the heat dissipation sink (420), the cooling sink (430), and the sink insulation member (450) can be fixed to the duct body (610) to be described later.

[0187] The fastening members (473) may be provided in multiple numbers. The number of fastening members (473) may correspond to the number of first insertion holes (471a) or the number of second insertion holes (472a).

[0188] As described above, the heat dissipation duct (600) may be provided to guide air blown by the heat dissipation fan (500) to the heat dissipation sink (420). The heat dissipation sink (420) and the heat dissipation fan (500) may be accommodated inside the heat dissipation duct (600).

[0189] The heat dissipation duct (600) can be attached to the outer surface of the wall (110) where the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided. For example, the heat dissipation duct (600) can be attached to the outer surface of the upper wall (110).

[0190] The heat dissipation duct (600) may include a duct body (610). The duct body (610) may be placed on a wall (110) where the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided. For example, the duct body (610) may be placed on an upper wall (110).

[0191] The duct body (610) may include a base plate (611) and a first side wall portion (612) protruding from the edge of the base plate (611). For example, the first side wall portion (612) may protrude upward from the edge of the base plate (611). The base plate (611) and the first side wall portion (612) may form a space through which air can flow.

[0192] The duct body (610) may include a thermoelectric element mounting portion (613). The thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) may be provided to mount a thermoelectric element (410). Accordingly, a heat dissipation sink (420) may be disposed on one side of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613), and a cooling sink (430) may be disposed on the other side of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613). For example, a heat dissipation sink (420) may be disposed on the upper side of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613), and a cooling sink (430) may be disposed on the lower side of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613).

[0193] A thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) may be provided on a base plate (611). The thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) may form a thermoelectric element insertion hole (613a) into which at least a portion of the thermoelectric element (410) is inserted.

[0194] In the thermoelectric element insertion hole (613a), not only the thermoelectric element (410) but also the protrusion (432) of the thermoelectric element sealing part (440) and the cooling sink (430) can be inserted (see FIG. 12 and FIG. 13).

[0195] The duct body (610) may include a heat dissipation fan mounting portion (614). The heat dissipation fan mounting portion (614) may be provided so that a heat dissipation fan (500) is mounted thereon.

[0196] A heat dissipation fan mounting portion (614) may be provided on a base plate (611). The heat dissipation fan mounting portion (614) may be formed by a slight indentation on one side of the base plate (611). For example, the heat dissipation fan mounting portion (614) may be formed by a slight indentation on the upper surface of the base plate (611).

[0197] The heat dissipation duct (600) may include a first duct cover (620). The first duct cover (620) may be placed on the duct body (610). The first duct cover (620) may be coupled to the duct body (610). For example, the first duct cover (620) may be coupled to the upper side of the duct body (610).

[0198] The first duct cover (620) may include a first air inlet (621). The first air inlet (621) may be provided to introduce air from outside the refrigerator (1) into the interior of the heat dissipation duct (600). Through the first air inlet (621), the space outside the refrigerator (1) and the space inside the heat dissipation duct (600) may be connected.

[0199] Although not shown in the drawing, a filter device may be provided in the first air inlet (621). The filter device may be provided so that the first air inlet (621) filters the air flowing into the heat dissipation duct (600).

[0200] The first duct cover (620) may include an inlet (622). The inlet (622) may be provided to allow air introduced into the heat dissipation duct (600) through the first air inlet (621) to be introduced into the heat dissipation fan (500). The inlet (622) may form an opening through which air can pass.

[0201] The heat dissipation duct (600) may include a second duct cover (630). The second duct cover (630) may be placed on the duct body (610) and the first duct cover (620). The second duct cover (630) may be combined with the duct body (610) and the first duct cover (620). For example, the second duct cover (630) may be combined on the upper side of the duct body (610) and the first duct cover (620).

[0202] The second duct cover (630) may include a cover plate (631) and a second side wall portion (632) protruding from the edge of the cover plate (631). For example, the second side wall portion (632) may protrude downward from the edge of the cover plate (631).

[0203] The second duct cover (630) may include a first air outlet (633). The first air outlet (633) may be provided to discharge air that has passed through the heat sink (420) and exchanged heat with the heat sink (420) to the outside of the refrigerator (1). The space outside the refrigerator (1) and the space inside the heat duct (600) may be connected through the first air outlet (633). The first air outlet (633) may be provided in the second side wall (632).

[0204] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a sink insulation member and a cooling sink separated according to one embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a sink insulation member and a cooling sink separated according to one embodiment. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view along the line DD' indicated in FIG. 8. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view along the line EE' indicated in FIG. 8.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 10 to 13, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element (410). In other words, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440). In other words, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613).

[0206] The sink insulation member (450) may include an opening (451) that is open in one direction. For example, the opening (451) may be open in an up-and-down direction. The opening (451) may be formed on the inner side of the sink insulation member (450).

[0207] The opening (451) may be provided so that at least a portion of the thermoelectric element (410) is inserted. Additionally, the opening (451) may be provided so that at least a portion of the protrusion (432) is inserted. Additionally, the opening (451) may be provided so that at least a portion of the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) is inserted. Additionally, the opening (451) may be provided so that at least a portion of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) is inserted.

[0208] By inserting at least a portion of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) into the opening (451), the sink insulation member (450) can be arranged to surround the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613). That is, the sink insulation member (450) can be arranged to cover at least a portion of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) from the outside of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613).

[0209] Additionally, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided to surround the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431). That is, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided to cover at least a portion of the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431).

[0210] Specifically, the sink insulation member (450) may include a cover portion (452) provided to surround the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431). In other words, the sink insulation member (450) may include a cover portion (452) provided to surround the edge of the cooling plate (431).

[0211] The cover portion (452) can cover at least a portion of the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431). That is, at least a portion of the cover portion (452) can be arranged to face at least a portion of the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431).

[0212] At least one part of the cover portion (452) may be located in the fourth direction (D4) from the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431). For example, at least one part of the cover portion (452) may be located below the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0213] In other words, one end (452a) along the fourth direction (D4) of the cover portion (452) may be located in the fourth direction (D4) from the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the bottom (452a) of the cover portion (452) may be located below the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0214] That is, the cover portion (452) can cover a part or the entire area of ​​the side portion (431c) extending in the fourth direction (D4) from the edge of the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the cover portion (452) can cover a part or the entire area of ​​the side portion (431c) extending downward from the edge of the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0215] One end (452a) along the fourth direction (D4) of the cover portion (452) may be located in the first direction (D1) from the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the bottom of the cover portion (452) may be located above the bottom surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431).

[0216] Additionally, one end (452a) along the fourth direction (D4) of the cover portion (452) may be located on a virtual plane where the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) is provided. For example, the bottom (452a) of the cover portion (452) may be located on a virtual plane where the bottom surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) is provided. That is, the bottom of the cover portion (452) and the bottom surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) may be located at the same height (see FIG. 16 and FIG. 17). More details regarding this will be described later.

[0217] That is, the cover portion (452) may be provided in a first direction (D1) from the plurality of cooling fins (433). For example, the cover portion (452) may be provided above the plurality of cooling fins (433). Specifically, the entire portion of the cover portion (452) may be provided above the plurality of cooling fins (433).

[0218] The sink insulation member (450) may include a stepped portion (453) that is stepped apart from the cover portion (452). Specifically, the stepped portion (453) may be stepped apart so as to be located in a first direction (D1) from the cover portion (452). For example, the stepped portion (453) may be stepped apart so as to be located above the cover portion (452).

[0219] The stepped portion (453) may be provided on the inner side of the cover portion (452). In other words, the cover portion (452) may be provided on the outer side of the stepped portion (453). An opening (451) may be provided on the inner side of the stepped portion (453).

[0220] The stepped portion (453) may face at least a portion of the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the stepped portion (453) may face at least a portion of the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0221] The step portion (453) may be provided between the heat dissipation sink (420) and the cooling sink (430). In other words, the step portion (453) may be provided between the heat dissipation plate (421) and the cooling plate (431).

[0222] The cover portion (452) and the step portion (453) may form a plate insertion space (454) into which at least a portion of the cooling plate (431) is inserted. The plate insertion space (454) may be formed by being recessed on one side of the sink insulation member (450). For example, the plate insertion space (454) may be formed by being recessed upward from the lower surface of the sink insulation member (450).

[0223] By forming a plate insertion space (454) in which at least a portion of the cooling plate (431) is inserted into the sink insulation member (450), it becomes easier to place the cooling sink (430) in the sink insulation member (450). Accordingly, the assembly ease of the thermoelectric cooling device (300) can be improved.

[0224] By inserting at least a portion of the cooling plate (431) into the plate insertion space (454), the cover portion (452) can cover at least a portion of the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431), and the stepped portion (453) can face at least a portion of the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0225] As described above, the cooling sink (430) may include a second sensor mounting portion (434). The second sensor mounting portion (434) may be provided on a cooling fin (433) located at one end of a plurality of cooling fins (433).

[0226] The second sensor mounting portion (434) may be provided to overlap with the step portion (453) with respect to the first direction (D1). That is, the second sensor mounting portion (434) may be provided on the inner side of the cover portion (452). Through this configuration, the cover portion (452) and the step portion (453) can cover at least a part of the second sensor mounting portion (434), and the second sensor (460) mounted on the second sensor mounting portion (434) can be prevented from being damaged by external impact.

[0227] The length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the second direction (D2) may be longer than the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the second direction (D2). In other words, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the fifth direction (D5) may be longer than the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the fifth direction (D5). For example, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) may be longer than the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the front-rear direction (X-axis direction).

[0228] Additionally, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the third direction (D3) may be longer than the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the third direction (D3). In other words, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the sixth direction (D6) may be longer than the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the sixth direction (D6). For example, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) may be longer than the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0229] That is, the horizontal length of the sink insulation member (450) may be longer than the horizontal length of the heat dissipation plate (421), and the vertical length of the sink insulation member (450) may be longer than the vertical length of the heat dissipation plate (421).

[0230] The length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the second direction (D2) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the second direction (D2). In other words, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the fifth direction (D5) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the fifth direction (D5). For example, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the front-rear direction (X-axis direction).

[0231] Additionally, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the third direction (D3) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the third direction (D3). In other words, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the sixth direction (D6) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the sixth direction (D6). For example, the length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0232] That is, the horizontal length of the sink insulation member (450) may be longer than the horizontal length of the cooling plate (431), and the vertical length of the sink insulation member (450) may be longer than the vertical length of the cooling plate (431).

[0233] The length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the second direction (D2) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the second direction (D2). In other words, the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the fifth direction (D5) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the fifth direction (D5). For example, the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the front-rear direction (X-axis direction).

[0234] Additionally, the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the third direction (D3) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the third direction (D3). In other words, the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the sixth direction (D6) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the sixth direction (D6). For example, the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0235] That is, the horizontal length of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be longer than the horizontal length of the cooling plate (431), and the vertical length of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be longer than the vertical length of the cooling plate (431).

[0236] Additionally, the horizontal length and vertical length of the heat dissipation plate (421) correspond to the horizontal length and vertical length of the heat dissipation sink (420), respectively, and the horizontal length and vertical length of the cooling plate (431) correspond to the horizontal length and vertical length of the cooling sink (430), respectively, so the horizontal length of the heat dissipation sink (420) may be longer than the horizontal length of the cooling sink (430), and the vertical length of the heat dissipation sink (420) may be longer than the vertical length of the cooling sink (430).3

[0237] The distance (L1) at which one end of the heat dissipation plate (421) in the second direction (D2) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the second direction (D2) may be longer than the distance (L2) at which one end of the cooling plate (431) in the second direction (D2) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the second direction (D2). In other words, the distance (L1) at which one end of the heat dissipation plate (421) in the fifth direction (D5) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the fifth direction (D5) may be longer than the distance (L2) at which one end of the cooling plate (431) in the fifth direction (D5) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the fifth direction (D5). For example, the distance at which the rear end of the heat dissipation plate (421) is spaced rearward from the thermoelectric element (410) may be longer than the distance at which the rear end of the cooling plate (431) is spaced rearward from the thermoelectric element (410). In other words, the rear end of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be located further rearward than the rear end of the cooling plate (431).

[0238] The distance (L3) at which the other end of the heat dissipation plate (421) in the second direction (D2) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the opposite direction to the second direction (D2) may be longer than the distance (L4) at which the other end of the cooling plate (431) in the second direction (D2) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the opposite direction to the second direction (D2). In other words, the distance (L3) at which the other end of the heat dissipation plate (421) in the fifth direction (D5) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the opposite direction to the fifth direction (D5) may be longer than the distance (L4) at which the other end of the cooling plate (431) in the fifth direction (D5) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the opposite direction to the fifth direction (D5). For example, the distance at which the front end of the heat dissipation plate (421) is spaced forward from the thermoelectric element (410) may be longer than the distance at which the front end of the cooling plate (431) is spaced forward from the thermoelectric element (410). In other words, the front end of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be located further forward than the front end of the cooling plate (431).

[0239] The distance (L5) at which one end of the heat dissipation plate (421) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the third direction (D3) in the third direction (D3) may be longer than the distance (L6) at which one end of the cooling plate (431) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the third direction (D3) in the third direction (D3). For example, the distance at which the left end (+Y direction) of the heat dissipation plate (421) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the left direction (+Y direction) may be longer than the distance at which the left end (+Y direction) of the cooling plate (431) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the left direction (+Y direction). In other words, the left end (+Y direction) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be located in the left direction (+Y direction) of the cooling plate (431) than the left end (+Y direction).

[0240] The distance (L7) at which one end of the heat dissipation plate (421) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the sixth direction (D6) in the sixth direction (D6) may be longer than the distance (L8) at which one end of the cooling plate (431) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the sixth direction (D6) in the sixth direction (D6). For example, the distance at which the right end (-Y direction) of the heat dissipation plate (421) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the right direction (-Y direction) may be longer than the distance at which the right end (-Y direction) of the cooling plate (431) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the right direction (-Y direction). In other words, the right end (-Y direction) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be located in the right direction (-Y direction) rather than the right end (-Y direction) of the cooling plate (431).

[0241] As described above, each of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) may protrude from the second surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421), and each of the plurality of cooling fins (433) may protrude from the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431). For example, each of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) may protrude upward from the upper surface (421b) of the heat dissipation plate (421), and each of the plurality of cooling fins (433) may protrude downward from the lower surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431).

[0242] The length (L9) of each of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) protruding from the heat dissipation plate (421) may be longer than the length (L10) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (433) protruding from the cooling plate (431). For example, the length of each of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) in the vertical direction may be longer than the length of each of the plurality of cooling fins (433) in the vertical direction.

[0243] That is, the size of each of the heat dissipation plate (421) and the heat dissipation fin (422) may be larger than the size of each of the cooling plate (431) and the cooling fin (433). In other words, the overall size of the heat dissipation sink (420) may be larger than the overall size of the cooling sink (430). In other words, the overall size of the cooling sink (430) may be smaller than the overall size of the heat dissipation sink (420). By making the overall size of the cooling sink (430) smaller than the overall size of the heat dissipation sink (420), the total material cost of the thermoelectric cooling device (300) can be reduced.

[0244] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, an embodiment is possible in which the sizes of the heat dissipation fin (422) and the cooling fin (433) are different from each other, but the vertical length or horizontal length of each of the heat dissipation plate (421) and the cooling plate (431) is provided to be the same as each other, and an embodiment is also possible in which the sizes of the heat dissipation plate (421) and the cooling plate (431) are different from each other, but the sizes of the heat dissipation fin (422) and the cooling fin (433) are provided to be the same as each other.

[0245] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment mounted on one wall of a main body. FIG. 15 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a thermoelectric cooling device according to one embodiment mounted on one wall of a main body.

[0246] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 12 to 15, the configuration and features of the thermoelectric cooling device (300) will be examined in more detail. However, for the convenience of explanation, only an embodiment in which the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided on the upper wall (110) will be described.

[0247] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 15, as the thermoelectric cooling device (300) operates, an airflow can be formed within the heat dissipation duct (600) along the heat dissipation path (P1), and an airflow can be formed within the cooling duct (800) along the cooling path (P2). At this time, the air within the airflow along the cooling path (P2) can exchange heat with the cooling sink (430), and the heat absorbed by the cooling sink (430) can be transferred to the heat dissipation sink (420) through the thermoelectric element (410). Additionally, the air within the airflow along the heat dissipation path (P1) can exchange heat with the heat dissipation sink (420), and the heat absorbed by the airflow along the heat dissipation path (P1) can be released outside the refrigerator (1).

[0248] As described above, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided to insulate the space between the heat dissipation sink (420) and the cooling sink (430). That is, the sink insulation member (450) may be provided to reduce the heat exchange between the heat dissipation sink (420) and the cooling sink (430) without the medium of the thermoelectric element (410). If the heat dissipation sink (420) and the cooling sink (430) exchange heat without the medium of the thermoelectric element (410), heat may be transferred from the heat dissipation sink (420) to the cooling sink (430) or cold air may be transferred from the cooling sink (430) to the heat dissipation sink (420), thereby reducing the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10).

[0249] The sink insulation member (450) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the space in which the sink insulation member (450) is placed. Specifically, the sink insulation member (450) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the space enclosed by the cooling plate (431), the upper wall (110), and the thermoelectric element mounting part (613).

[0250] However, due to design tolerances of the refrigerator (1), a certain gap may be formed between the sink insulation member (450) and surrounding components. For example, a certain gap may be formed between the sink insulation member (450) and the cooling plate (431), between the sink insulation member (450) and the upper wall (110), and between the sink insulation member (450) and the thermoelectric element mounting part (613).

[0251] In particular, the gap formed between the sink insulation member (450) and the upper wall (110) can form a cold air leakage path (C). In other words, the gap formed between the thermoelectric element assembly (400) and the upper wall (110) can form a cold air leakage path (C).

[0252] Cold air leaking from the cooling sink (430) can be transferred to the heat dissipation sink (420) through the cold air leakage path (C). For example, cold air leaking from the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431) can be transferred to the heat dissipation plate (421) through the cold air leakage path (C).

[0253] That is, when the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is operating, the cold air leaking from the cooling sink (430) can be transferred to the heat dissipation sink (420) through the cold air leakage path (C). As the amount of cold air leaking from the cooling sink (430) through the cold air leakage path (C) increases, the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10) may decrease.

[0254] In addition, depending on the situation, cold air may be supplied to the storage room (10) using only the refrigeration cycle device without using the thermoelectric cooling device (300). In this way, even when the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is not operating, cold air leaking from the cooling sink (430) can be transferred to the heat dissipation sink (420) through the cold air leakage path (C), and accordingly, the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10) may decrease.

[0255] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the sink insulation member (450) may include a cover portion (452) provided to surround the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431). That is, the cover portion (452) may cover at least a portion of the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431). Through this configuration, the sink insulation member (450) can reduce the cold air leaking from the cooling plate (431) of the cooling sink (430) through the cold air leakage path (C), and the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10) can be further increased.

[0256] Additionally, according to the concept of the present disclosure, the rear end of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be located further back than the rear end of the cooling plate (431), the front end of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be located further forward than the front end of the cooling plate (431), the left end (+Y direction) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be located further left (+Y direction) than the left end (+Y direction) of the cooling plate (431), and the right end (-Y direction) of the heat dissipation plate (421) may be located further right (-Y direction) than the right end (-Y direction) of the cooling plate (431). Through this configuration, the cold air leakage path (C) extending from the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431) to the heat dissipation plate (421) may be formed to be longer. As the cold air leakage path (C) becomes longer, the amount of cold air leaking through the cold air leakage path (C) can be reduced, and the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10) can be increased.

[0257] Additionally, according to the concept of the present disclosure, the cover portion (452) may be provided above the plurality of cooling fins (433). Specifically, the entire portion of the cover portion (452) may be provided above the plurality of cooling fins (433). Through this configuration, the cover portion (452) can be prevented from acting as a flow resistance to the airflow along the cooling channel (P1), and the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10) can be further increased.

[0258] As described above, even when the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is not operating, there is a possibility that cold air may leak from the cooling sink (430). For example, the cold air leaking from the cooling sink (430) may be transferred to the heat dissipation sink (420) through the cold air leakage path (C).

[0259] In addition, the cold air from the cooling sink (430) may be transferred to the heat dissipation sink (420) through the thermoelectric element (410). That is, the cold air from the cooling sink (430) may leak out through the thermoelectric element (410) and the heat dissipation sink (420). This is because, when the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is not operating, the thermoelectric element (410) can act as a heat transfer medium between the cooling sink (430) and the heat dissipation sink (420).

[0260] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the overall size of the heat dissipation sink (420) may be larger than the overall size of the cooling sink (430). In other words, the overall size of the cooling sink (430) may be smaller than the overall size of the heat dissipation sink (420). By forming the size of the cooling sink (430) relatively small, the cold air absorbed through the cooling sink (430) may be reduced. Accordingly, when the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is not operating, the cold air transferred from the cooling sink (430) to the heat dissipation sink (420) through the thermoelectric element (410) may be reduced, and the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10) may be further increased.

[0261] FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the combination of a thermoelectric element assembly and a duct body according to one embodiment. FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the combination of a thermoelectric element assembly and a duct body according to one embodiment.

[0262] Hereinafter, a sink insulation member (450') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. In describing the sink insulation member (450'), the same reference numerals are assigned to configurations that are substantially identical to those shown in FIGS. 1 to 15, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0263] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the sink insulation member (450') may include a cover portion (452') provided to surround the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431). The cover portion (452') may cover at least a portion of the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431).

[0264] At least one part of the cover portion (452') may be located in the fourth direction (D4) from the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431). For example, at least one part of the cover portion (452') may be located below the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0265] In other words, one end (452a') along the fourth direction (D4) of the cover portion (452') may be located in the fourth direction (D4) from the first surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431). For example, the bottom (452a') of the cover portion (452') may be located below the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0266] One end (452a') along the fourth direction (D4) of the cover portion (452') may be located on a virtual plane where the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) is provided. For example, the bottom (452a') of the cover portion (452') may be located on a virtual plane where the bottom surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) is provided. That is, the bottom of the cover portion (452') and the bottom surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) may be located at the same height.

[0267] The cover portion (452') may be provided in a first direction (D1) from the plurality of cooling fins (433). For example, the cover portion (452') may be provided above the plurality of cooling fins (433). Specifically, the entire portion of the cover portion (452') may be provided above the plurality of cooling fins (433).

[0268] In the foregoing, a sink insulation member (450') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure was examined with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. Below, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be examined again with reference to FIGS. 18 to 20.

[0269] FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a sink insulation member, a duct body, a thermoelectric element, a thermoelectric element sealing part, and a heat dissipation sink separated according to one embodiment. FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a sink insulation member, a duct body, a thermoelectric element, a thermoelectric element sealing part, and a heat dissipation sink separated according to one embodiment. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view along the line FF' indicated in FIG. 8.

[0270] Referring to FIGS. 18 to 20, the thermoelectric element (410) may include a thermoelectric element section (411) and a wire section (412) connected to the thermoelectric element section (411) to supply power to the thermoelectric element section (411).

[0271] The wire section (412) may include a first wire (412a) and a second wire (412b) that are spaced apart from each other. For example, the first wire (412a) and the second wire (412b) may be arranged spaced apart in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction).

[0272] At least a portion of the thermoelectric element (410) may be inserted into the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440). For example, the thermoelectric element portion (411) may be inserted into the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440).

[0273] The thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) may include a sealing body (440a). The sealing body (440a) may be provided to seal the thermoelectric element portion (411). The sealing body (440a) may form an opening into which the thermoelectric element portion (411) is inserted.

[0274] The thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) may include a wire cover portion (440b). The wire cover portion (440b) may be provided to cover the wire portion (413). The wire cover portion (440b) may be formed protruding from the sealing body (440a).

[0275] The wire cover portion (440b) may include a first wire cover (440ba) and a second wire cover (440bb). The first wire cover (440ba) may be provided to cover the first wire (412a). The second wire cover (440bb) may be provided to cover the second wire (412b).

[0276] The duct body (610) may include a thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) provided to mount a thermoelectric element (410). The thermoelectric element mounting portion (613) may form a thermoelectric element insertion hole (613a) provided to insert at least a portion of the thermoelectric element (410).

[0277] In the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613), not only the thermoelectric element (410) but also the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) can be mounted. At least a portion of the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) can be inserted into the thermoelectric element insertion hole (613a). For example, by inserting at least a portion of the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) into which the thermoelectric element (410) is inserted into the thermoelectric element insertion hole (613a), the thermoelectric element (410) and the thermoelectric element sealing portion (440) can be mounted in the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613).

[0278] The duct body (610) may include a first wire cover insertion part (615). The first wire cover insertion part (615) may be provided to allow the first wire cover (440ba) to be inserted. That is, the first wire cover (440ba) and the first wire (412a) may be accommodated inside the first wire cover insertion part (615).

[0279] The first wire cover insertion portion (615) may be provided on one side of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613). Specifically, the first wire cover insertion portion (615) may be formed by being recessed in a part of the base plate (611) provided on one side of the thermoelectric element mounting portion (613).

[0280] The first wire cover insert (615) can be formed at a position corresponding to the first wire cover (440ba). In other words, the first wire cover insert (615) can be formed at a position corresponding to the first wire (412a).

[0281] The duct body (610) may include a second wire cover insertion part (616). The second wire cover insertion part (616) may be provided to allow the second wire cover (440bb) to be inserted. That is, the second wire cover (440bb) and the second wire (412b) may be accommodated inside the second wire cover insertion part (616).

[0282] The second wire cover insertion part (616) may be provided on one side of the thermoelectric element mounting part (613). Specifically, the second wire cover insertion part (616) may be formed by being recessed in a part of the base plate (611) provided on one side of the thermoelectric element mounting part (613).

[0283] The second wire cover insert (616) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second wire cover (440bb). In other words, the second wire cover insert (616) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second wire (412b).

[0284] The sink insulation member (450) may include a first recess (455a). The first recess (455a) may be recessed on one side of the sink insulation member (450) facing the heat dissipation sink (420). For example, the first recess (455a) may be recessed on the upper surface of the sink insulation member (450).

[0285] The first recess (455a) may be provided to receive the first wire cover insert (615). That is, the first wire cover insert (615), the first wire cover (440ba), and the first wire (412a) may be received inside the first recess (455a).

[0286] The width of the first recess (455a) may be the same as or wider than the width of the first wire (412a). In particular, by forming the width of the first recess (455a) wider than the width of the first wire (412a), the disconnection of the first wire (412a) can be effectively prevented.

[0287] The sink insulation member (450) may include a second recess (455b). The second recess (455b) may be recessed on one side of the sink insulation member (450) facing the heat dissipation sink (420). For example, the second recess (455b) may be recessed on the upper surface of the sink insulation member (450).

[0288] The second recess (455b) may be provided to allow the second wire cover insert (616) to be inserted. That is, the second wire cover insert (616), the second wire cover (440bb), and the second wire (412b) may be accommodated inside the second recess (455b).

[0289] The width of the second recess (455b) may be the same as or wider than the width of the second wire (412b). In particular, by forming the width of the second recess (455b) wider than the width of the second wire (412b), the disconnection of the second wire (412b) can be effectively prevented.

[0290] The sink insulation member (450) may include a first partition (456a) that partitions the first recess (455a) and the second recess (455b). Specifically, the first partition (456a) may protrude toward the heat dissipation sink (420) between the first recess (455a) and the second recess (455b) to partition the first recess (455a) and the second recess (455b). For example, the first partition (456a) may protrude upward between the first recess (455a) and the second recess (455b).

[0291] The thickness of the first section (456a) according to the first direction (D1) may be thicker than the thickness of the first recess (455a) according to the first direction (D1) or the thickness of the second recess (455b) according to the first direction (D1). For example, the thickness of the first section (456a) according to the up-down direction may be thicker than the thickness of the first recess (455a) according to the up-down direction or the thickness of the second recess (455b) according to the up-down direction. Through such a configuration, the size of the sink insulation member (450) can be formed to the maximum, and the insulation performance between the cooling sink (420) and the heat dissipation sink (430) through the sink insulation member (450) can be further improved.

[0292] The sink insulation member (450) may include a third recess (455c). The third recess (455c) may be recessed on one side of the sink insulation member (450) facing the heat dissipation sink (420). For example, the third recess (455c) may be recessed on the upper surface of the sink insulation member (450).

[0293] The third recess (455c) may be provided with a shape corresponding to the second recess (455b). The third recess (455c) may be provided on the opposite side of the first recess (455a) with respect to the opening (451).

[0294] The sink insulation member (450) may include a fourth recess (455d). The fourth recess (455d) may be recessed on one side of the sink insulation member (450) facing the heat dissipation sink (420). For example, the fourth recess (455d) may be recessed on the upper surface of the sink insulation member (450).

[0295] The fourth recess (455d) may be provided with a shape corresponding to the first recess (455a). The fourth recess (455d) may be provided on the opposite side of the second recess (455b) with respect to the opening (451).

[0296] The sink insulation member (450) may include a second section (456b) that separates the third recess (455c) and the fourth recess (455d). Specifically, the second section (456b) may protrude toward the heat dissipation sink (420) between the third recess (455c) and the fourth recess (455d) to separate the third recess (455c) and the fourth recess (455d). For example, the second section (456b) may protrude upward between the third recess (455c) and the fourth recess (455d).

[0297] The second section (456b) may be provided with a shape corresponding to the first section (456a). The second section (456b) may be provided on the opposite side of the first section (456a) with respect to the opening (451).

[0298] Due to the above configuration, the sink insulation member (450) can be placed in the duct body (610) without distinguishing the first recess (455a) and the second recess (455b) from the third recess (455c) and the fourth recess (455d). For example, the sink insulation member (450) may be arranged such that the first wire cover insert (615) is inserted into the first recess (455a) and the second wire cover insert (616) is inserted into the first recess (455b), or may be arranged such that the first wire cover insert (615) is inserted into the fourth recess (455d) and the second wire cover insert (616) is inserted into the third recess (455c). That is, even when the sink insulation member (450) is rotated 180 degrees based on the drawing, the sink insulation member (450) can be placed in the duct body (610). Accordingly, the assemblability of the sink insulation member (450) can be improved.

[0299] The sink insulation member (450) may include a groove (457). The groove (457) may be formed by being recessed on the inner surface of the sink insulation member (450) that forms the opening (451). The groove (457) may be provided so that a fastening member (473) can pass through it.

[0300] The groove portion (457) may include a first groove portion (457a) and a second groove portion (457b). The first groove portion (457a) may be formed by being recessed on the inner surface of the portion where the first stepped portion (456a) is provided. The second groove portion (457b) may be formed by being recessed on the inner surface of the portion where the second stepped portion (456b) is provided.

[0301] FIG. 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the combination of a thermoelectric element assembly and a duct body according to one embodiment.

[0302] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 21, a sink insulation member (450'') according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In describing the sink insulation member (450''), the same reference numerals are assigned to configurations that are substantially identical to those shown in FIG. 1 to 15 and FIG. 18 to 20, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0303] Referring to FIG. 21, the sink insulation member (450'') may include a cover portion (452'') provided to surround the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431). The cover portion (452'') may cover at least a portion of the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431).

[0304] The cover portion (452'') may include an inclined surface (452b) that is inclined in a first direction (D1) as it moves away from the cooling sink (430). For example, the inclined surface (452b) may be inclined upward as it moves away from the cooling sink (430). Specifically, the inclined surface (452b) may be inclined in a direction toward the wall (110) where the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided, from the second surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431).

[0305] For example, the inclined surface (452b) may be provided to be inclined upward as it moves away from the cooling sink (430). Specifically, the inclined surface (452b) may be inclined in a direction toward the upper wall (110) from the lower surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431).

[0306] The inclined surface (452b) can guide the airflow flowing within the cooling duct (800) to the cooling sink (430). Through this configuration, the flow resistance caused by the airflow flowing within the cooling duct (800) hitting the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431) can be prevented, and the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10) can be further increased.

[0307] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 22, a sink insulation member (450''') and surrounding configurations according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In describing the sink insulation member (450''') and surrounding configurations, configurations that are substantially identical to those shown in FIG. 1 to 15 and FIG. 18 to 20 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0308] Referring to FIG. 22, one wall (110''') on which the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided may form an insulating member insertion groove (110a). The insulating member insertion groove (110a) may be formed by being recessed in the one wall (110''') on which the thermoelectric cooling device (300) is provided. For example, the insulating member insertion groove (110a) may be formed by being recessed in the upper wall (110''').

[0309] At least a portion of the sink insulation member (450''') may be provided to be inserted into the insulation member insertion groove (110a). For example, the edge of the sink insulation member (450''') may be provided to be inserted into the insulation member insertion groove (110a).

[0310] Since at least a portion of the sink insulation member (450''') can be inserted into the insulation member insertion groove (110a), the size of the sink insulation member (450''') can be formed to be relatively larger. For example, the length of the sink insulation member (450''') shown in FIG. 22 extending along the second direction (D2) may be longer than the length of the sink insulation member (450) shown in FIG. 15 extending along the second direction (D2).

[0311] Through the above configuration, the cold air leakage path (C''') extending from the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431) to the heat dissipation plate (421) can be formed to be longer. As the cold air leakage path (C''') becomes longer, the amount of cold air leaking through the cold air leakage path (C''') can be reduced, and the cooling efficiency of the storage room (10) can be further increased.

[0312] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment comprises a main body (100) having a storage room (10) provided inside, a thermoelectric element (410) provided on the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) and including a heating part (410a) and a heat absorption part (410b) provided on the opposite side of the heating part (410a), a heat dissipation sink (420) provided to be in contact with the heating part (410a), a cooling sink (430) provided to be in contact with the heat absorption part (410b), and a sink insulation member (450) provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element (410) to insulate between the heat dissipation sink (420) and the cooling sink (430). The cooling sink (430) comprises a cooling plate (431) including an upper surface (431a), a lower surface (431b), and a side portion (431c) provided between the upper surface (431a) and the lower surface (431b); a protrusion (432) protruding upward from the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431) toward the heat absorption portion (410b); and a plurality of cooling fins (433) protruding downward from the lower surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) and forming a cooling channel (P2) through which air can pass. The sink insulation member (450) is provided to cover at least a portion of the side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431).

[0313] The sink insulation member (450) may include a cover portion (452) provided to surround a side portion (431c) of the cooling plate (431), and a stepped portion (453) provided on the inner side of the cover portion (452) at a step from the cover portion (452) and facing at least a portion of the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0314] The above cover portion (452) and the above step portion (453) can form a plate insertion space (454) into which at least a portion of the cooling plate (431) is inserted.

[0315] The lower end (452a) of the above cover portion (452) may be located below the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0316] The bottom (452a) of the above cover portion (452) may be located at the same height as the bottom surface (431b) of the cooling plate (431) or above it.

[0317] The cooling sink (430) may further include a sensor mounting portion (434) provided to mount a temperature sensor (460). The sensor mounting portion (434) may be provided to overlap with the stepped portion (453) with respect to the vertical direction.

[0318] The plurality of cooling fins (433) may be arranged in a first direction (D5). The cooling channel (P2) may extend in a second direction (D6) that intersects the first direction (D5). The length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the first direction (D5) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the first direction (D5). The length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the second direction (D6) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the second direction (D6).

[0319] The plurality of cooling fins (433) may be arranged in a first direction (D5). The cooling channel (P2) may extend in a second direction (D6) that intersects the first direction (D5). The heat sink (420) may include a heat dissipation plate (421) and a plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) protruding upward from the heat dissipation plate (421). The length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the first direction (D5) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the first direction (D5). The length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the second direction (D6) may be longer than the length of the cooling plate (431) extending along the second direction (D6).

[0320] The distance (L1) at which one end of the heat dissipation plate (421) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the first direction (D5) in the first direction (D5) may be longer than the distance (L2) at which one end of the cooling plate (431) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the first direction (D5) in the first direction (D5).

[0321] The distance (L5) at which one end of the heat dissipation plate (421) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the second direction (D6) in the second direction (D6) may be longer than the distance (L6) at which one end of the cooling plate (431) is separated from the thermoelectric element (410) in the second direction (D6) in the second direction (D6).

[0322] The heat dissipation sink (420) may include a heat dissipation plate (421) and a plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) protruding upward from the heat dissipation plate (421). The length (L9) of each of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) protruding from the heat dissipation plate (421) may be longer than the length (L10) of each of the plurality of cooling fins (433) protruding from the cooling plate (431).

[0323] The thermoelectric element (410) may include a thermoelectric element section (411) having a heating section (410a) on one side and a heat absorption section (410b) on the other side opposite to the one side, and a wire section (412) connected to the thermoelectric element section (411) to supply power to the thermoelectric element section (411), and including a first wire (412a) and a second wire (412b) that are spaced apart from each other. The sink insulation member (450) may include a first recessed section (455a) that is recessed on one side facing the heat dissipation sink (420) and in which the first wire (412a) is disposed on the inside, and a second recessed section (455b) that is recessed on one side facing the heat dissipation sink (420) and in which the second wire (412b) is disposed on the inside.

[0324] The sink insulation member (450) may include a partition (456a) protruding toward the heat dissipation sink (420) between the first recess (455a) and the second recess (455b) to partition the first recess (455a) and the second recess (455b).

[0325] The above cover portion (452'') may include an inclined surface (452b) that slopes upward as it moves away from the cooling sink (430).

[0326] At least a portion of the sink insulation member (450''') may be provided to be inserted into an insertion groove (110a) formed in the upper wall (110''').

[0327] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment comprises a main body (100) having a storage compartment (10) provided inside, a thermoelectric element (410) mounted on the upper wall (110) of the main body (100) and including a heating part (410a) provided on the upper side and a heat absorption part (410b) provided on the lower side, a heat dissipation sink (420) disposed above the thermoelectric element (410) and including a heat dissipation plate (421) in contact with the heating part (410a), and a plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) protruding upward from the heat dissipation plate (421) and forming a heat dissipation channel (P1) through which air can pass, and a cooling sink (430) disposed below the thermoelectric element (410) and including a cooling plate (431), a protrusion (432) protruding upward from the cooling plate (431) and in contact with the heat absorption part (410b), and the cooling It includes a cooling sink (430) comprising a plurality of cooling fins (433) that protrude downward from a plate (431) and form a cooling channel (P2) through which air can pass, and a sink insulation member (450) provided on the outside of the thermoelectric element (410) to insulate between the heat dissipation plate (421) and the cooling plate (431). The sink insulation member (450) includes a cover portion (452) that is provided to surround the edge of the cooling plate (431) and has at least one portion located below the upper surface (431a) of the cooling plate (431).

[0328] The above cover portion (452) may be provided above the plurality of cooling fins (433).

[0329] The sink insulation member (450) may further include a stepped portion (453) that is stepped from the cover portion (452) on the inner side of the cover portion (452). The cover portion (452) and the stepped portion (453) may form a plate insertion space (454) that is recessed upward so that at least a portion of the cooling plate (431) is inserted.

[0330] The plurality of heat dissipation fins (422) may be arranged in one direction (D2). The length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the one direction may be longer than the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the one direction.

[0331] The above heat dissipation channel (P1) may extend in one direction (D3). The length of the sink insulation member (450) extending along the one direction may be longer than the length of the heat dissipation plate (421) extending along the one direction.

[0332] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the sink insulation member may include a cover portion provided to surround the side portion of the cooling plate. Accordingly, cold air leaking from the cooling sink between the thermoelectric element assembly and one wall of the main body can be reduced, and the cooling efficiency of the storage chamber can be increased.

[0333] According to the concept of the present disclosure, the overall size of the cooling sink is formed to be smaller than the overall size of the heat dissipation sink, so that the cold air absorbed through the cooling sink can be reduced. Accordingly, when the thermoelectric cooling device is not in operation, heat leakage through the thermoelectric element, the heat dissipation sink, and the cooling sink can be reduced, and the cooling efficiency of the storage room can be increased.

[0334] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0335] Specific embodiments have been illustrated and described above. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art may make various modifications without departing from the essence of the technical concept of the invention as described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A main body with a storage room provided inside; A thermoelectric element provided on the upper wall of the above-mentioned main body and comprising a heating portion and a heat absorption portion provided on the opposite side of the heating portion; A heat dissipation sink arranged to come into contact with the above-mentioned heat source; A cooling sink arranged to be in contact with the above-mentioned heat absorption part; and It includes a sink insulation member provided on the outer side of the thermoelectric element to insulate between the heat dissipation sink and the cooling sink, and The above cooling sink is, A cooling plate comprising an upper surface, a lower surface, and a side portion provided between the upper surface and the lower surface; A protrusion protruding upward from the upper surface of the cooling plate toward the heat absorption portion; It includes a plurality of cooling fins that protrude downward from the lower surface of the cooling plate and form a cooling channel through which air can pass, A refrigerator in which the sink insulation member is provided to cover at least a portion of the side portion of the cooling plate.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above sink insulation member is, A cover portion provided to surround the side portion of the cooling plate; and A refrigerator comprising a stepped portion formed on the inner side of the cover portion, which is stepped from the cover portion and faces at least a portion of the upper surface of the cooling plate.

3. In Paragraph 2, A refrigerator having the above-mentioned cover portion and the above-mentioned step portion forming a plate insertion space into which at least a portion of the cooling plate is inserted.

4. In Paragraph 2, A refrigerator in which the lower part of the above cover is located below the upper surface of the cooling plate.

5. In Paragraph 2, A refrigerator in which the lower part of the above cover is located at the same height as or above the lower surface of the cooling plate.

6. In Paragraph 2, The above cooling sink further includes a sensor mounting portion provided to mount a temperature sensor, and A refrigerator in which the sensor mounting portion is arranged to overlap with the stepped portion based on the vertical direction.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of cooling fins are arranged in a first direction, and The above cooling channel extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and The length of the sink insulation member extending along the first direction is longer than the length of the cooling plate extending along the first direction, and A refrigerator in which the length of the sink insulation member extending along the second direction is longer than the length of the cooling plate extending along the second direction.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of cooling fins are arranged in a first direction, and The above cooling channel extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and The above heat sink is, Heat dissipation plate; and It includes a plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding upward from the heat dissipation plate, and The length of the heat dissipation plate extending along the first direction is longer than the length of the cooling plate extending along the first direction, and A refrigerator in which the length of the heat dissipation plate extending along the second direction is longer than the length of the cooling plate extending along the second direction.

9. In Paragraph 8, A refrigerator in which the distance at which one end of the heat dissipation plate is spaced from the thermoelectric element in the first direction according to the first direction is longer than the distance at which one end of the cooling plate is spaced from the thermoelectric element in the first direction according to the first direction.

10. In Paragraph 8, A refrigerator in which the distance at which one end of the heat dissipation plate is spaced from the thermoelectric element in the second direction according to the second direction is longer than the distance at which one end of the cooling plate is spaced from the thermoelectric element in the second direction according to the second direction.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above heat sink is, Heat dissipation plate; and It includes a plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding upward from the heat dissipation plate, and A refrigerator in which the length of each of the plurality of heat dissipation fins protruding from the heat dissipation plate is longer than the length of each of the plurality of cooling fins protruding from the cooling plate.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above thermoelectric element is, A thermoelectric element part having the heating element provided on one side and the heat absorption element provided on the other side opposite to the one side; and A wire section connected to the thermoelectric element section to supply power to the thermoelectric element section, comprising a wire section including a first wire and a second wire spaced apart from each other. The above sink insulation member is, A first recessed portion that is recessed on one side facing the heat dissipation sink, wherein the first wire is disposed on the inside; and A refrigerator comprising a second recess that is recessed on one side facing the heat dissipation sink, wherein the second wire is disposed on the inside.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above sink insulation member is, A refrigerator comprising a partition portion protruding toward the heat dissipation sink between the first recess and the second recess to partition the first recess and the second recess.

14. In Paragraph 2, A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned cover portion includes an inclined surface that slopes upward as it moves away from the cooling sink.

15. In Paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which at least a portion of the above-mentioned sink insulation member is arranged to be inserted into an insertion groove formed in the upper wall.

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