Insulation assembly and refrigerator including same

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment disclosed herein may comprise: a main body; a door rotatably connected to open and close the main body; a storage compartment, disposed inside the main body, for storing food; and an insulation assembly adjacent to the storage compartment and disposed inside the main body. The insulation assembly may comprise: a vacuum insulation material including a core material and at least one outer cover material covering the core material; and an auxiliary insulation material providing a space for the vacuum insulation material to be seated and having one side open. A portion of the at least one outer cover material may be configured to protrude into the auxiliary insulation material (200) and restrict the movement of the vacuum insulation material (100) in the outward direction.

Description

Insulation assembly and refrigerator including the same

[0001] One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an insulating assembly placed inside a refrigerator.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device for keeping food fresh by having a main body having a storage compartment and a cold air supply system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment may include a refrigerator compartment that is maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius to refrigerate food, and a freezer compartment that is maintained at approximately 0 to minus 30 degrees Celsius to freeze food. The storage compartment may be arranged so that the front is open for the retrieval and transfer of food, and the open front of the storage compartment may be opened and closed by a door.

[0003] To reduce heat loss occurring in the refrigerator, an insulating member providing insulation function may be placed between the outer and inner layers. The insulating member may include foam insulation and / or vacuum insulation (vacuum insulation panel, VIP).

[0004] Foam insulation materials may contain polyurethane (PU) materials. Consequently, the manufacturing of foam insulation using polyurethane materials may be subject to international environmental regulations due to the potential for greenhouse gas emissions and the generation of ozone-depleting substances. As a result, the importance of measures to increase the utilization of vacuum insulation materials is becoming increasingly apparent.

[0005] The information described above may be provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body, a door rotatably connected to open and close the main body, a storage room disposed inside the main body for storing food, and an insulation assembly disposed adjacent to the storage room and inside the main body. The insulation assembly may include a vacuum insulation material comprising a core material and at least one outer shell material covering the core material, and an auxiliary insulation material having one side open and providing a space for the vacuum insulation material to be seated. A portion of the at least one outer shell material may be configured to protrude inward toward the auxiliary insulation material (200) to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving outward.

[0007] An insulation assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a vacuum insulation material comprising a core material and a first outer layer covering the core material, and an auxiliary insulation material having one side open and providing a space for the vacuum insulation material to be seated. A portion of the at least one outer layer may be configured to protrude inwardly toward the auxiliary insulation material (200) to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving outward.

[0008] However, the problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part A of the refrigerator of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIGS. 4a and 4b are drawings showing an insulation assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which forms a first flange structure and includes an auxiliary insulation material and a vacuum insulation material.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an insulation assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which forms a second flange structure and includes an auxiliary insulation material and a vacuum insulation material.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an insulation assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which forms a third flange structure and includes an auxiliary insulation material and a vacuum insulation material.

[0015] FIG. 7a is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material forming a fourth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7b is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material forming a fourth flange structure and a second outer shell material covering the same, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8a is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8b is a view of one side of the first outer shell of a vacuum insulation material forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 8c is a view looking at the other side of the first outer shell of a vacuum insulation material forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 8d is a drawing showing a flange formation process of a first outer shell material of a vacuum insulation material according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 9a is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a second outer shell material forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9b is a view of one side of the second outer shell of a vacuum insulation material forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 9c is a view looking at the other side of the second outer shell of the vacuum insulation material forming the fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 9d is a drawing showing a flange formation process of a second outer shell material of a vacuum insulation material according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 10a is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material forming a sixth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 10b is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material forming a sixth flange structure and a second outer shell material covering the same, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a second outer shell formed to surround a vacuum insulation material and an auxiliary insulation material, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0029] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0030] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0031] In this document, 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.

[0032] In this document, the term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0033] In this document, terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order).

[0034] In this document, terms such as "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "side," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom" are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and location of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0035] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0036] 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 document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a main body.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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 appropriate for refrigerated storage of goods, and the freezer room may be maintained at a temperature appropriate 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°C to 7°C. "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°C to -1°C. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator room or a freezer room, with or without the user's choice.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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 them.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device arranged to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0055] 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.

[0056] According to one embodiment, a cold air supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold air supply device 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 air 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a control unit for controlling the refrigerator.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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 connect to the server through the Wide Area Network (WAN).

[0069] The input interface may include keys, touchscreens, microphones, etc. The input interface may receive user input and transmit it to the processor.

[0070] The output interface may include a display, a speaker, etc. The output interface can output various notifications, messages, information, etc. generated by the processor.

[0071] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0072] Meanwhile, terms such as "upward," "downward," "front," and "rear" 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. For example, the terms "front" and "rear" below may refer to the front and rear of the refrigerator in the X-direction, respectively, based on the drawings. The terms "upward" and "downward" below may refer to the upward and downward directions of the refrigerator in the Z-direction, respectively, based on the drawings. The terms "left" and "right" below may refer to the left and right directions of the refrigerator in the Y-direction, respectively, based on the drawings.

[0073] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the exterior of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2, the refrigerator (1) may include a main body (10), a storage room (20), a door (30), and / or a cold air supply device.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the storage room (20) may be partitioned inside the main body (10) and formed into multiple spaces. A door (30) may be positioned at the front of the main body (10) to open and close the storage room (20). A cold air supply device may be provided inside the main body (10) to supply cold air to the storage room (20).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the main body (10) may include an inner body (11) and an outer body (12). The inner body (11) may be provided to form the exterior of the storage room (20). The inner body (11) may have a plastic material and be integrally injection molded. For example, the inner body (11) may include a polymer material such as ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), or HIPS (high impact poly styrene), PS (poly styrene), or PP (polypropylene). The outer body (12) may be provided to form at least a part of the exterior of the refrigerator (1). The outer body (12) may be made of a metal material with excellent durability and aesthetic appeal. For example, the outer body (13) may include a metal material including stainless steel, or a high-strength glass material.

[0078] According to one embodiment, a receiving space may be formed between the inner part (11) and the outer part (12). A main body insulation assembly (60) that insulates the storage room (20) may be provided in a part of the receiving space.

[0079] According to one embodiment, a cold air supply device can generate cold air by using a cooling circulation cycle that compresses, condenses, expands, and evaporates a refrigerant.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the storage room (20) may be divided into multiple sections by partitions (14). The storage room (20) may be formed by the internal housing (11) of the main body (10) and the partitions (14). Inside the storage room (20), a plurality of shelves (24) or storage containers (25) may be provided to store food or the like. The plurality of shelves (24) and storage containers (25) may be provided, for example, so as to be separable.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the storage room (20) may be divided into a plurality of storage rooms (21, 22, 23) by a partition wall (14). For example, the storage room (20) may include one first storage room (21) located at the top (e.g., upper storage room) and two second storage rooms (22) (e.g., lower storage rooms) and a third storage room (23) (e.g., lower storage room) located at the bottom, as illustrated.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the partition (14) may include a first partition (141) and a second partition (142). The partition (14) may, for example, have a T-shaped cross-section. The first partition (141) may be provided horizontally, for example, to partition the first storage room (21) and the second and third storage rooms (22, 23). The second partition (142) may be provided vertically, for example, to partition the second storage room (22) and the third storage room (23). The second partition (142) may be formed to protrude downward from the first partition (141), for example. The illustrated second partition (142) is formed protruding from the center of the first partition (141), but is not limited thereto, and the size of the second storage room (22) and the third storage room (23) may vary depending on the position of the second partition (142).

[0083] Among the illustrated storage rooms (20), the first storage room (21) can be used as a refrigerator room, and the second and third storage rooms (22, 23) can be used as freezer rooms, but are not limited thereto, and the location and number of each refrigerator room and freezer room can be varied according to the user's needs.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the number, size, or shape of the storage rooms (20) may vary depending on the shape or location of the partition wall (14). The freezer room may be maintained at approximately minus 20 degrees, and the refrigerator room may be maintained at approximately plus 3 degrees. The storage rooms (20) may be insulated, for example, by the partition wall (14).

[0085] According to one embodiment, the door (30) may include a first door (31) (e.g., upper door) or a second door (32) (e.g., lower door) as illustrated. The door (30) may be provided to open and close, for example, an opening (10a) of the main body (10). The first door (31) may be provided as a pair (e.g., double door) to open and close the first storage room (21), for example. The second door (32) may be provided as a pair (e.g., double door) to open and close the second storage room (22) or the third storage room (23), for example. In addition, the number and shape of the door (30) may vary in correspondence with the number and shape of the storage room (20), and the door (30) may be configured to rotate around the hinge (16) as well as to slide.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (1) may include a top table (13) provided on the upper part of the main body (10). The top table (13) may be coupled to the upper part of the outer housing (12). For example, the top table (13) may be coupled to the upper surface of the outer housing (12). For example, the top table (13) may be fixed to the outer housing (12).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the top table (13) can cover various electrical components. A receiving space for accommodating various electrical components may be formed on the inner side of the top table (13). For example, the top table (13) can cover a door driving module (not shown) described later.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the cold air supply device may include a compressor (C), a condenser (not shown), an expansion valve (not shown), an evaporator (26), and a blower fan (27). For example, an insulation assembly (60) providing an insulation function to prevent cold air leakage from the storage room (20) may be disposed between the inner surface (11) and the outer surface (13) of the main body (10).

[0089] Although the refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has been described as an example of the present disclosure on the premise that it is a cold-cooling refrigerator, the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto and can also be applied to a direct-cooling refrigerator.

[0090] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of part A of the refrigerator of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 3, the refrigerator (1) may include a main body (10) and a thermal insulation assembly (60). The main body (10) may include an inner body (11) forming a storage room (20) and an outer body (13) forming an outer body.

[0092] The configuration of the main body (10) of the refrigerator (1) in Fig. 3 may be partially or entirely the same as the configuration of the main body (10) of the refrigerator (1) in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2.

[0093] The embodiment of FIG. 3 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 4a to FIG. 11.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulated panel (100) and an auxiliary insulated panel (200). The vacuum insulated panel (110) may include at least one of a core material (110), a first outer layer material (130), or a second outer layer material (300).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulated panel (100), an auxiliary insulated panel (200), and a second envelope (300).

[0096] Hereinafter, the second outer layer material (300) is described as a component corresponding to the vacuum insulation material (100). However, depending on the structure, the vacuum insulation material (100) can be easily understood as having a structure that includes the second outer layer material (300).

[0097] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core (110) and a first envelope (120). For example, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core (110) and a first envelope (130) covering the core (110). For example, the first envelope (130) may be configured to completely enclose the core (110). For example, the first envelope (130) may be positioned to seal the core (110).

[0098] According to one embodiment, the core material (110) may be made of a material that maintains the shape of a vacuum insulation material (110) and has high thermal insulation performance. For example, the core material (110) may include glass fiber.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the diameter of the glass fiber forming the core (110) may include at least one of chopped long glass fiber with a diameter of approximately 7 μm to 12 μm (micrometer), glass wool with a diameter of 4 μm to 6 μm, or microfiber with a diameter of 0.3 μm to 3 μm. For example, the core (110) may be composed of at least one or a combination of two or more of the chopped long glass fiber, glass wool, or microfiber.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) can block gas and / or moisture penetrating into the interior of the vacuum insulation (100). The first outer layer (130) can improve the durability of the vacuum insulation (100).

[0101] According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) may include a first-1 outer layer (131) formed to surround one side of the core (110), and a first-2 outer layer (132) formed to surround the other side of the core (110). For example, the first-1 outer layer (131) may be positioned adjacent to the outer side of the inner layer (11). For example, the first-2 outer layer (132) may be positioned adjacent to the inner side of the outer layer (13). For example, the outer layer (130) may be formed by combining the first-1 outer layer (131) and the first-2 outer layer (132).

[0102] According to one embodiment, the first-1 outer layer (131) and the first-2 outer layer (132) may be provided with materials having the same thermal conductivity or with different thermal conductivity. For example, when the first-1 outer layer (131) and the first-2 outer layer (132) are provided with materials having different thermal conductivity, the thermal conductivity of the first-2 outer layer (132) placed adjacent to the inner side of the outer layer (13) may be relatively lower than the thermal conductivity of the first-1 outer layer (131) placed adjacent to the outer side of the inner layer (11). As a result, the first-2 outer layer (132) having low thermal conductivity is placed adjacent to the inner surface of the outer layer (13), thereby improving thermal insulation performance and limiting external moisture and gas from entering the interior of the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0103] According to one embodiment, both sides of the first-1 outer shell material (131) and the first-2 outer shell material (132) may be joined together to form a receiving space (160). A core material (160) may be placed inside the receiving space (160).

[0104] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include an extension (not shown) formed by extending outwardly into the receiving space (160) when the first-1 outer layer material (131) and the first-2 outer layer material (132) are combined. For example, the receiving space (160) formed inside the extension where the first-1 outer layer material (131) and the first-2 outer layer material (132) are combined can maintain a vacuum state.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) may include an aluminum or polyethylene material. For example, the first outer layer (130) may include low-density polyethylene (LDPE). For example, the first outer layer (130) may be implemented as a film of aluminum material. For example, the first outer layer (130) may be formed by plating an aluminum layer on the surface of a polyethylene film.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may be arranged to surround the first outer layer (130). The second outer layer (300) is formed to surround the vacuum insulation material (100) and may include a joining portion (310) that joins with the auxiliary insulation material (200) and an exposed portion (320) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0107] According to one embodiment, as the second outer layer (300) is arranged to surround the outer side of the first outer layer (130), a vacuum layer may be formed between the outer side of the first outer layer (130) and the second outer layer (300). For example, the vacuum layer may be formed as a space having a pressure less than a predetermined level. The vacuum layer may improve the bonding strength between the first outer layer (130) and the second outer layer (300) and may strengthen the shear rigidity of the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0108] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may include a second-1 outer layer (301) and a second-2 outer layer (302). For example, the second-1 outer layer (301) may be positioned adjacent to the outer side of the inner layer (11). For example, the second-2 outer layer (302) may be positioned adjacent to the inner side of the outer layer (13). For example, the second outer layer (300) may be formed by combining the second-1 outer layer (301) and the second-2 outer layer (302).

[0109] According to one embodiment, the second-1 outer layer (301) and the second-2 outer layer (302) may be provided with materials having the same thermal conductivity or with different thermal conductivity. For example, when the second-1 outer layer (301) and the second-2 outer layer (302) are provided with materials having different thermal conductivity, the thermal conductivity of the second-2 outer layer (132) placed adjacent to the inner side of the outer layer (13) may be relatively lower than the thermal conductivity of the second-1 outer layer (301) placed adjacent to the outer side of the inner layer (11). As a result, the second-2 outer layer (132) having a low thermal conductivity is placed adjacent to the inner surface of the outer layer (13), thereby improving thermal insulation performance and limiting external moisture and gas from entering the interior of the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0110] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer material (300) may include a polyethylene material or a nylon material. For example, the second outer layer material (300) may include a low-density polyethylene material. For example, the second outer layer material (300) may include a polyethylene film or a nylon film.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may be implemented as a single film and arranged to wrap around the outside of the first outer layer (130).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer material (300) may have a predetermined thickness. For example, the thickness of the second outer layer material (300) may be set considering the folding process. For example, the shear strength of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be improved as the second outer layer material (300) becomes thicker, but if the thickness of the second outer layer material (300) exceeds a critical level, the folding process may not be easy. For example, the second outer layer material (300) may have a thickness of approximately 50 μm to 150 μm.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) of the present disclosure can be provided with a high level of shear stiffness and a low level of thermal conductivity by being implemented as a double outer layer material comprising a first outer layer material (130) and a second outer layer material (300).

[0114] According to one embodiment, the auxiliary insulation material (200) may be formed to provide insulation performance and to wrap around a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) may have a shape with one side open to be combined with the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) may form a space (e.g., a recess) in which the vacuum insulation material (100), which has a polyhedral shape such as a plate, can be seated.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the auxiliary insulation material (200) is formed to protect or reinforce the vacuum insulation material (100) and may include various materials to provide insulation performance. For example, the auxiliary insulation material (200) may be expanded polypropylene (EPP). EPP is a structure made by foaming polypropylene, which has good heat and shock absorption capabilities and may have high elasticity and shock resistance.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the auxiliary insulation material (200) can be formed through insert injection with the vacuum insulation material (100). For example, after placing the vacuum insulation material (100) inside a mold, the raw material of the auxiliary insulation material (200) (e.g., plastic or EPP) is injected in a molten state to form a covering for the surfaces of the vacuum insulation material (100), excluding one side (e.g., the exposed portion (320) of the second outer layer material (300)), and then manufactured by cooling and demolding. In this case, the auxiliary insulation material (200) (or the second outer layer material (300)) may form a flange structure so that the vacuum insulation material (100) does not easily detach from the auxiliary insulation material (200). The flange structure is described in detail below in the drawings.

[0117] Generally, the vacuum insulation material (100) is a component that improves insulation performance by removing air from the interior and maintaining a vacuum state, and while it has excellent insulation performance, it may be a structure that is weak against external pressure and prone to damage. Accordingly, the connection between the vacuum insulation material (100) and the auxiliary insulation material (200) of the present disclosure can be formed through insert injection, which has improved dimensional accuracy and stability, rather than a point contact fixing method such as a screw that provides local pressure.

[0118] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary insulation material (200) may be positioned between the outer surface (13) and the inner surface (11) of the main body (10) so as to surround at least a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) includes a cover portion (210) formed to surround the vacuum insulation material (100) and may form an opening configured to expose a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100) (or the second outer surface material (300)). The outer surface (210a) of the cover portion (210) of the auxiliary insulation material (200) formed on the side opposite to the opening may be positioned adjacent to the inner surface (11). For example, the outer surface (210a) of the cover portion (210) may be positioned to be in contact with the inner surface (11). The opening facing one side of the auxiliary insulation material (200) may be positioned adjacent to the outer surface (13). For example, the vacuum insulation material (100) (or the second outer layer material (300)) located within the opening and / or within the opening and exposed outside the auxiliary insulation material (200) may be positioned to be in contact with the outer layer (13).

[0119] According to one embodiment, the efficiency of the insulation assembly (60) structure can be improved by the auxiliary insulation material (200) not entirely covering the vacuum insulation material (100) but exposing a portion thereof. For example, the insulation performance of the insulation assembly (60) can be effectively utilized by exposing a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100), which has high-efficiency insulation performance, rather than the auxiliary insulation material (200), which has lower insulation performance than the vacuum insulation material (100), entirely covering the vacuum insulation material (100). For example, if the auxiliary insulation material (200) entirely covers the vacuum insulation material (100), the heat transfer path (e.g., thermal bridge) may increase; therefore, by exposing a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100), the thermal bridge phenomenon can be reduced and the insulation performance of the insulation assembly (60) can be effectively utilized. For example, rather than the auxiliary insulation (200) covering the entire vacuum insulation (100), applying it only to the necessary parts and minimizing the exposed portion of the vacuum insulation (100) can improve the weight reduction (and cost reduction) and space utilization of the insulation assembly (60).

[0120] Referring to FIG. 3, a structure is disclosed in which the opening side of the auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned close to the outer side (13), but this is not limited thereto, and the design can be modified in various ways to be advantageous for insulation, such as a structure in which the opening side of the auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned close to the inner side (11).

[0121] FIGS. 4a and 4b are drawings showing an insulation assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which forms a first flange structure and includes an auxiliary insulation material and a vacuum insulation material.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulation material (100) and an auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0123] The configuration of the insulation assembly (60) in FIGS. 4a and 4b may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the insulation assembly (60) in FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0124] The embodiments of FIGS. 4a and 4b can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIGS. 5 to 11.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulated panel (100) and an auxiliary insulated panel (200). Hereinafter, the vacuum insulated panel (100) is described as having a structure including a second outer covering (300). However, depending on the structure, the second outer covering (300) can be easily understood as a component corresponding to the vacuum insulated panel (100).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (e.g., the core material (110) of FIG. 3) and at least one outer envelope material (130; 300) covering the core material (110). The at least one outer envelope material (130; 300) may include a first outer envelope material (e.g., the first outer envelope material (130) of FIG. 3) and a second outer envelope material (300). Referring to FIG. 4a, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (100) and a first outer envelope material (130). Referring to FIG. 4b, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (100), a first outer envelope material (130), and a second outer envelope material (300).

[0127] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned to surround a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100) and can improve insulation performance together with the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) provides a space where the vacuum insulation material (100) can be seated, and one side may be open so that a portion of the first outer layer material (130) or the second outer layer material (300) may be exposed. For example, the auxiliary insulation material (200) may include a supporting seating surface (220) formed to surround the vacuum insulation material (100). The seating surface (220) may be positioned in contact with the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 4a, the first outer layer (130) formed to surround the core material (110) may have a flange shape on one side to prevent the vacuum insulation material (100) from detaching from the auxiliary insulation material (200). Generally, the vacuum insulation material (100) may be manufactured by insert injection together with the auxiliary insulation material (200), but the vacuum insulation material (100) may not be easily bonded within the auxiliary insulation material (200), and thus separation of the vacuum insulation material (100) may occur. Accordingly, in the insulation assembly (60) of the present disclosure, one side of the first outer layer (130) covering the core material (110) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may protrude into the interior of the auxiliary insulation material (200), thereby limiting (e.g., preventing) the vacuum insulation material (100) from detaching from the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0129] According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) may be arranged to seal the core (110). The first outer layer (130) is formed to surround the core (110) and may include a joining portion (150) that joins with the auxiliary insulation (200) and an exposed portion (160) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation (200). According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) of the vacuum insulation (100) may be composed of a flexible material. Accordingly, the first outer layer (130) can be sealed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the core (110).

[0130] According to one embodiment, the exposed portion (160) of the first outer layer (130) may be a portion covering the surface facing the outer side of the core material (110) (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3). The exposed portion (320) of the first outer layer (130) is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200) through an opening in the auxiliary insulation material (200) and may face (or come into contact with) the outer side (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., the refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the joining portion (150) of the first outer layer (130) may be a portion covering surfaces other than the surface facing the outside of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the outside (13) side of FIG. 3). The area of ​​the joining portion (150) of the first outer layer (130) may be larger than the area of ​​the exposed portion (160). The joining portion (150) may be positioned between the core material (110) and the auxiliary insulation material (200) to separate the core material (110) and the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0132] In the cross-sectional view with reference to FIG. 4a, the joining portion (150) of the first outer shell material (130) may include a front side wall (151) facing the inner side (e.g., inner side (11) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3), and side walls (152) perpendicular to the front wall (311). The side walls (152) may include a first side wall (152a) facing in a first direction (+Z-axis direction) and a second side wall (152b) facing in a second direction (-Z-axis direction) opposite to the first direction (+Z-axis direction). Given that the first outer shell material (130) is a cuboid, the side walls (312) may further include a third side wall and a fourth side wall perpendicular to the first side wall (152a) and the second side wall (152b).

[0133] According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) may include a flange shape. The front wall (151) may include a flange portion (153) that extends outwardly from one side of the facing core material (110) and is inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material (200). The flange portion (153) may be a part of the connecting portion (310) that extends along the edge of the front wall (151).

[0134] According to one embodiment, a portion of the joining portion (150) of the first outer layer (130) (e.g., flange portion (153)) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the outer direction (e.g., X-axis direction) and the exposed portion (160) (e.g., Z-axis direction). According to one embodiment, one side of the joining portion (150) of the first outer layer (130) (e.g., flange portion (153)) may be configured not to overlap with the core material (110).

[0135] According to one embodiment, the flange portion (153) of the first outer layer (130) extends further outward than one side of the core material (110), and as the extended portion is inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (200), it may be formed to restrict the movement of the first outer layer (130) (and the core material (110) wrapped by the first outer layer (130).

[0136] According to one embodiment, the flange portion (153) may extend to a specified thickness along at least a portion of the edge of the front wall (151) when viewed toward the front side of the first outer shell material (130) (e.g., when viewed toward the X-axis). For example, the flange portion (153) may have a square shape (or plate shape) and be a closed loop shape extending along the edge of the front wall (151). For example, the flange portion (153) may have a shape resembling only a portion of the edge of the front wall (151) of the square shape (or plate shape) (e.g., both sides extending outwardly from the first side wall (152a) and the second side wall (152b)). The flange portion (151) may be named at least one of an extension portion, a protrusion portion, a fitting portion, or a movement limiting portion.

[0137] According to one embodiment, as the flange portion (153) of the first outer layer (130) is fitted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation (200), the vacuum insulation (100) may be configured to restrict separation or movement from the auxiliary insulation (200). For example, as the flange portion (153) has a shape that protrudes outward (e.g., X-axis direction) and perpendicularly (e.g., Z-axis direction), the core material (110) covered by the first outer layer (130) may be restricted from moving outward (or in the opening direction).

[0138] According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) has a flange shape, which limits (e.g., prevents) separation caused by insert injection of the auxiliary insulation material (200) and the vacuum insulation material (100), and can provide an insulation assembly (60) with improved strength.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 4b, a second outer layer (300) formed to surround the vacuum insulation material (100) may have one side having a flange shape so as not to detach the vacuum insulation material (100) from the auxiliary insulation material (200). Generally, the vacuum insulation material (100) can be manufactured by insert injection together with the auxiliary insulation material (200), but the vacuum insulation material (100) may not be easily bonded within the auxiliary insulation material (200), and thus separation of the vacuum insulation material (100) may occur. Accordingly, the insulation assembly (60) of the present disclosure may have one side of the second outer layer (300) covering the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., core material (110) and first outer layer (130)) protrude into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material (200), thereby limiting (e.g., preventing) the vacuum insulation material (100) from being separated from the auxiliary insulation material (200). Although the first outer layer (130) of FIG. 4b does not have a separate flange shape, it is not limited thereto, and the first outer layer (130) may have a flange shape corresponding to FIG. 4a, and the design may be easily modified so that the flange shape of the second outer layer (300) covers the flange shape of the first outer layer (130).

[0140] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may be arranged to seal the core (110) and the first outer layer (130). The second outer layer (300) is formed to wrap the first outer layer (130) that wraps the core (110) and may include a joining portion (310) that joins with the auxiliary insulation material (200) and an exposed portion (320) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200). According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) and / or the second outer layer (300) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be made of a flexible material. Accordingly, the first outer layer (130) can be sealed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the core (110), and the second outer layer (300) can be sealed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the first outer layer (130) that surrounds the core (110).

[0141] According to one embodiment, the exposed portion (320) of the second outer layer (300) may be a portion that covers the surface facing the outside of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the outside (13) side of FIG. 3). The exposed portion (320) of the second outer layer (300) is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200) through an opening in the auxiliary insulation material (200) and may face (or come into contact with) the outside of the refrigerator (e.g., the refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3) (e.g., the outside (13) of FIG. 3).

[0142] According to one embodiment, the joining portion (310) of the second outer layer (300) may be a portion that covers surfaces other than the surface facing the outside of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the outside (13) side of FIG. 3). The area of ​​the joining portion (310) of the second outer layer (300) may be larger than the area of ​​the exposed portion (320). The joining portion (310) may be placed between the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the first outer layer (130) surrounding the core material (110)) and the auxiliary insulation material (200) to separate the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the first outer layer (130) surrounding the core material (110)) and the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0143] In the cross-sectional view with reference to FIG. 4b, the joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) may include a front side wall (311) facing the inner side (e.g., inner side (11) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3), and side walls (312) perpendicular to the front wall (311). The side walls (312) may include a first side wall (312a) facing in a first direction (+Z-axis direction) and a second side wall (312b) facing in a second direction (-Z-axis direction) opposite to the first direction (+Z-axis direction). Given that the second outer shell material (300) is a cuboid, the side walls (312) may further include a third side wall and a fourth side wall perpendicular to the first side wall (312a) and the second side wall (312b).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may include a flange shape. The front wall (311) may include a first flange portion (313) that extends outwardly from one side of the facing vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the first outer layer (130) covering the core material (110)) and is inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material (200). The first flange portion (313) may be a part of the connecting portion (310) that extends along the edge of the front wall (311).

[0145] According to one embodiment, a portion of the joining portion (310) of the second outer layer (300) (e.g., the first flange portion (313)) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the outer direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) and the exposed portion (320) (e.g., the Z-axis direction). According to one embodiment, one side of the joining portion (310) of the second outer layer (300) (e.g., the first flange portion (313)) may be configured not to overlap with the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the first outer layer (130) surrounding the core material (110).

[0146] According to one embodiment, the first flange portion (313) of the second outer layer (300) extends further outward than one side of the vacuum insulation material (100), and as the extended portion is inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (200), it may be formed to restrict the movement of the second outer layer (300) (and the vacuum insulation material (100) wrapped by the second outer layer (300) (e.g., the first outer layer (130) wrapped by the core material (110)).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the first flange portion (313) may extend to a specified thickness along at least a portion of the edge of the front wall (311) when viewed toward the front side of the second outer shell material (300) (e.g., when viewed toward the X-axis). For example, the first flange portion (313) may have a square shape (or plate shape) and be a closed loop shape extending along the edge of the front wall (311). For example, the first flange portion (313) may have a shape resembling only a portion of the edge of the front wall (311) of the square shape (or plate shape) (e.g., both sides extending outwardly from the first side wall (312a) and the second side wall (312b)). The first flange portion (313) may be named as at least one of an extension portion, a protrusion portion, a fitting portion, or a movement limiting portion.

[0148] According to one embodiment, as the first flange portion (313) of the second outer layer (300) is fitted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material (200), the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to restrict separation or movement from the auxiliary insulation material (200). For example, as the first flange portion (313) has a shape that protrudes outward (e.g., X-axis direction) and perpendicularly (e.g., Z-axis direction), the first outer layer (130) that encloses the core material (110) covered by the second outer layer (300) may be restricted from moving outward (or in the opening direction).

[0149] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) has a flange shape, which limits (e.g., prevents) separation caused by insert injection of the auxiliary insulation material (200) and the vacuum insulation material (100), and can provide an insulation assembly (60) with improved strength.

[0150] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an insulation assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which forms a second flange structure and includes an auxiliary insulation material and a vacuum insulation material.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 5, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulation material (100) and an auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0152] The configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 5 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 1 to FIG. 4a.

[0153] The embodiment of FIG. 5 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b, and FIG. 6 to FIG. 11.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulated panel (100), an auxiliary insulated panel (200), and a second envelope (300).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (e.g., the core material (110) of FIG. 3), and a first outer covering material (e.g., the first outer covering material (130) of FIG. 3) covering the core material (110).

[0156] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned to surround a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100) and can improve insulation performance together with the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) provides a space where the vacuum insulation material (100) (and the second outer layer material (300)) can be seated, and one side is open so that a portion of the second outer layer material (300) can be exposed.

[0157] Hereinafter, the configuration of the second outer shell material (300) having a second flange structure different from the first flange structure of FIGS. 4a and 4b will be described in detail.

[0158] According to one embodiment, a second outer covering material (300) formed to surround a vacuum insulation material (100) may have one side having a flange shape so as to prevent the vacuum insulation material (100) from separating from the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may be arranged to seal the vacuum insulation material (100). The second outer layer (300) is formed to surround the vacuum insulation material (100) and may include a joining portion (310) that joins with the auxiliary insulation material (200) and an exposed portion (320) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0160] For example, the exposed portion (320) of the second outer layer (300) may be a portion covering the surface facing the outside of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the outside (13) side of FIG. 3). For example, the bonded portion (310) of the second outer layer (300) may be a portion covering surfaces other than the surface facing the outside of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the outside (13) side of FIG. 3). The area of ​​the bonded portion (310) of the second outer layer (300) may be larger than the area of ​​the exposed portion (320).

[0161] In the cross-sectional view with reference to FIG. 5, the joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) may include a front side wall (311) facing the inner side (e.g., inner side (11) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3), and side walls (312) perpendicular to the front wall (311). The side walls (312) may include a first side wall (312a) facing in a first direction (+Z-axis direction) and a second side wall (312b) facing in a second direction (-Z-axis direction) opposite to the first direction (+Z-axis direction). Given that the second outer shell material (300) is a cuboid, the side walls (312) may further include a third side wall and a fourth side wall perpendicular to the first side wall (312a) and the second side wall (312b).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may include a flange shape. At least a portion of the side walls (312) may include a second flange portion (314) that extends outward from the outer surface of the side wall (312) beyond one surface of the vacuum insulation material (100) facing the front wall (311) and is inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0163] According to one embodiment, a portion of the joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) (e.g., the second flange portion (314)) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the outer direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) than the exposed portion (320) (e.g., the Z-axis direction).

[0164] According to one embodiment, the second flange portion (314) of the second outer layer (300) is further extended opposite to the vacuum insulation material (100), and as the extended portion is inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (200), it may be formed to restrict the movement of the second outer layer (300) (and the vacuum insulation material (100) wrapped by the second outer layer (300)).

[0165] According to one embodiment, the second flange portion (314) may extend to a specified thickness along at least a portion of the edge of the side wall (312) when viewed toward the front side of the second outer shell material (300) (e.g., when viewed toward the X-axis). The second flange portion (314) may have a shape that protrudes outward from the middle portion of the length in the X-axis direction of the side wall (312). For example, the second flange portion (314) may have a square shape with an open inner side and a closed loop shape that extends along the edge of the side wall (312). For example, the second flange portion (314) may have a shape that resembles only a portion of the edge of the front wall (311) of the square shape (or plate shape) (e.g., both portions extending outwardly from the first side wall (312a) and the second side wall (312b)). The second flange portion (314) may be named at least one of an extension portion, a protruding portion, a fitting portion, or a movement limiting portion.

[0166] According to one embodiment, as the second flange portion (314) of the second outer layer (300) is fitted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material (200), the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to restrict separation or movement from the auxiliary insulation material (200). For example, as the second flange portion (314) has a shape that protrudes outward (e.g., X-axis direction) and perpendicularly (e.g., Z-axis direction), the auxiliary insulation material (200) covered by the second outer layer (300) may be restricted from moving outward (or in the opening direction).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) has a flange shape, which limits (e.g., prevents) separation caused by insert injection of the auxiliary insulation material (200) and the vacuum insulation material (100), and can provide an insulation assembly (60) with improved strength.

[0168] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an insulation assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which forms a third flange structure and includes an auxiliary insulation material and a vacuum insulation material.

[0169] Referring to FIG. 6, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulation material (100) and an auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0170] The configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 6 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 1 to FIG. 5.

[0171] The embodiment of FIG. 6 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4a, FIG. 4b, FIG. 5, and FIG. 7a to FIG. 11.

[0172] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulated panel (100), an auxiliary insulated panel (200), a second envelope (300), and a third flange element (400).

[0173] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (e.g., the core material (110) of FIG. 3), and a first outer covering material (e.g., the first outer covering material (130) of FIG. 3) covering the core material (110).

[0174] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned to surround a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100) and can improve insulation performance together with the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) provides a space where the vacuum insulation material (100) (and the second outer layer material (300)) can be seated, and one side is open so that a portion of the second outer layer material (300) can be exposed.

[0175] Hereinafter, the configuration of the second outer shell material (300) (and the third flange element (400)) having a third flange structure different from the first flange structure of FIG. 6 will be described in detail.

[0176] According to one embodiment, a third flange element (400) may be disposed within a second outer shell (300) formed to surround a vacuum insulation material (100). The third flange element (400) may be a rigid element manufactured by injection molding. For example, the third flange element (400) may include a material such as plastic, metal, or ceramic. The third flange element (400) is disposed to surround the second outer shell (300) and may have a flange shape that protrudes on one side from the vacuum insulation material (100) to prevent the vacuum insulation material (100) from separating from the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0177] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may be arranged to seal the vacuum insulation material (100). The second outer layer (300) is formed to surround the third flange element (400) together with the vacuum insulation material (100), and the portion formed to surround the third flange element (400) may have a shape corresponding to the third flange element (400). The second outer layer (300) may include a joining portion (310) that joins with the auxiliary insulation material (200) and an exposed portion (320) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0178] In the cross-sectional view with reference to FIG. 6, the joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) may include a front side wall (311) facing the inner side (e.g., inner side (11) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3), and side walls (312) perpendicular to the front wall (311). The side walls (312) may include a first side wall (312a) facing in a first direction (+Z-axis direction) and a second side wall (312b) facing in a second direction (-Z-axis direction) opposite to the first direction (+Z-axis direction). Given that the second outer shell material (300) is a cuboid, the side walls (312) may further include a third side wall and a fourth side wall perpendicular to the first side wall (312a) and the second side wall (312b).

[0179] According to one embodiment, the flange shape of the third flange element (400) and the second outer layer material (300) surrounding it may be formed to extend further outward than one side of the vacuum insulation material (100), and as the extended portion is inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (200), the movement of the vacuum insulation material (100) surrounded by the second outer layer material (300) may be restricted.

[0180] According to one embodiment, the third flange element (400) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the external direction (e.g., X-axis direction) from the exposed portion (320) (e.g., Z-axis direction).

[0181] According to one embodiment, the third flange element (400) is positioned on one side of the vacuum insulation material (100) together with the vacuum insulation material (100) and the auxiliary insulation material (200) during the insert injection process, and the plate-shaped third flange element (400) may be positioned on one side of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., one side parallel to the Z-axis direction). The third flange element (400) has an area larger than the said side of the vacuum insulation material (100), and the injection process may proceed with the third flange element (400) joined by the second outer shell material (300).

[0182] According to one embodiment, as the edge portion (or end portion) of the third flange element (400) (and the second outer covering material (300) surrounding it) is fitted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material (200), the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to restrict the detachment or movement of the auxiliary insulation material (200). For example, as the edge portion of the third flange element (400) has a shape that protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the outer direction (e.g., X-axis direction) (e.g., Z-axis direction), the auxiliary insulation material (200), which is covered together with the third flange element (400) by the second outer covering material (300), may be restricted from moving in the outer direction (or opening direction).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the third flange element (400) can limit (e.g., prevent) separation caused by insert injection of the auxiliary insulation material (200) and the vacuum insulation material (100) due to the flange shape, and can provide an insulation assembly (60) with improved strength.

[0184] FIG. 7a is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material (100) forming a fourth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0185] FIG. 7b is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material (100) forming a fourth flange structure and a second outer shell material covering the same, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0186] Referring to FIGS. 7a and 7b, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulation material (100) and an auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0187] The configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIGS. 7a and 7b may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0188] The embodiments of FIGS. 7a and 7b can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6 and FIGS. 8a to 11.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 7a, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulated panel (100) and an auxiliary insulated panel (200).

[0190] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (e.g., the core material (110) of FIG. 3), and a first outer covering material (e.g., the first outer covering material (130) of FIG. 3) covering the core material (110).

[0191] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned to wrap around a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100) and can improve insulation performance together with the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) provides a space where the vacuum insulation material (100) can be seated, and one side is open so that a portion of the second outer covering material (300) can be exposed.

[0192] Hereinafter, the fourth flange structure formed in the vacuum insulation material (100), which is different from the first flange structure formed in the second outer shell material of FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b, will be described with focus.

[0193] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may have a flange shape on one side so that the vacuum insulation material (100) does not detach from the auxiliary insulation material (200). The vacuum insulation material (100) may include a joining portion (150) that joins with the auxiliary insulation material (200) and an exposed portion (160) on one side that is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200). For example, the exposed portion (160) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be a portion facing the outside of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3) and may be a portion that contacts the outer side (13). For example, the joining portion (150) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be a portion that contacts the auxiliary insulation material (200) and is a portion other than the surface facing the outside of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3).

[0194] In the cross-sectional view with reference to FIG. 7a, the joining portion (150) of the vacuum insulation (100) may include a front surface (151) facing the inner side (e.g., inner side (11) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3), and sides (152) facing the other direction from the front surface (151). At least some of the sides (152) may be formed to restrict the movement of the vacuum insulation (100) by being formed to protrude or bevel so as to be inserted into the auxiliary insulation (200). The configuration including the protruding or beveled sides (152) may be named a fourth flange portion (155).

[0195] In the cross-sectional view with reference to FIG. 7b, the insulation assembly (60) may further include a second outer covering (300) configured to surround the vacuum insulation material (100). The configuration of the vacuum insulation material (100) in FIG. 7b may adopt the configuration of the vacuum insulation material (100) in FIG. 7a.

[0196] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may be arranged to surround the fourth flange portion (155) so as to correspond to the shape of the fourth flange portion (155) of the vacuum insulation material (100). The second outer layer (300) may be formed to restrict the movement of the vacuum insulation material (100) by having an extension or fitting shape into the auxiliary insulation material (200) together with the fourth flange portion (155) of the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0197] According to one embodiment, due to the flange shape of the vacuum insulation material (100) itself, separation caused by insert injection of the auxiliary insulation material (200) and the vacuum insulation material (100) can be limited (e.g., prevented), and an insulation assembly (60) with improved strength can be provided.

[0198] FIG. 8a is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material (100) forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0199] FIG. 8b is a view of one side of the first outer shell of a vacuum insulation material (100) forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0200] FIG. 8c is a view looking at the other side of the first outer shell material of the vacuum insulation material (100) forming the fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0201] FIG. 8d is a drawing showing a flange formation process of a first outer shell material of a vacuum insulation material (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] FIG. 9a is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a second outer shell material forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0203] FIG. 9b is a view of one side of the second outer shell of a vacuum insulation material (100) forming a fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0204] FIG. 9c is a view looking at the other side of the second outer shell of the vacuum insulation material (100) forming the fifth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0205] FIG. 9d is a drawing showing a flange formation process of a second outer shell material of a vacuum insulation material (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0206] Referring to FIGS. 8a through 9d, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulation material (100) and an auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0207] The configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIGS. 8a to 9d may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIGS. 1 to 7b.

[0208] The embodiments of FIGS. 8a to 9d can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 7b and FIGS. 10a to 11.

[0209] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulated panel (100), an auxiliary insulated panel (200), and / or a second outer covering (300).

[0210] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (e.g., the core material (110) of FIG. 3), and a first outer covering material (e.g., the first outer covering material (130) of FIG. 3) covering the core material (110).

[0211] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned to wrap around a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100) and can improve insulation performance together with the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) provides a space where the vacuum insulation material (100) can be seated, and one side is open so that a portion of the second outer covering material (300) can be exposed.

[0212] Hereinafter, the fifth flange structure formed in the vacuum insulation material (100), which is different from the fourth flange structure formed in the vacuum insulation material (100) of FIG. 7a, will be described in detail.

[0213] Referring to FIG. 8a, the vacuum insulation material (100) may have a flange shape on one side so that the vacuum insulation material (100) does not detach from the auxiliary insulation material (200). The first outer layer (130) may include a connecting portion (150) that is joined to the auxiliary insulation material (200), and an exposed portion (160) on one side that is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200). For example, the exposed portion (160) of the first outer layer (130) may be a portion facing the outside of the first outer layer (130) (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3) and may be a portion that comes into contact with the outer side (13). For example, the joining portion (150) of the first outer layer (130) may be a portion that contacts the auxiliary insulation material (200), other than the surface facing the outside of the first outer layer (130) (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3).

[0214] According to one embodiment, the joining portion (150) of the first outer shell material (130) may include a front surface (151) facing the inner surface (e.g., inner surface (11) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3), and sides (152) facing in a direction different from the front surface (151).

[0215] FIG. 8b discloses a top view projection of only the vacuum insulation material (100) of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 8a. Referring to FIG. 8b, the first outer layer (130) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may include an exposed portion (160) exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200) and a 5-1 flange portion (156) for restricting separation from the auxiliary insulation material (200). When viewed from above, the core material (110) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to be surrounded by the first outer layer (130).

[0216] FIG. 8c discloses a bottom view projection of only the vacuum insulation material (100) of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 8a. Referring to FIG. 8c, the first outer layer (130) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a connecting portion (150) that is connected (or in contact) with the auxiliary insulation material (200) and a 5-1 flange portion (156) for limiting separation from the auxiliary insulation material (200). When viewed from below, the core material (110) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to be surrounded by the first outer layer (130).

[0217] In the cross-sectional view with reference to FIG. 8d, the first outer layer (130) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may perform a folding process in which an edge portion (or extension portion) protruding toward the side wall (152) is folded at least once (e.g., multiple times) in a direction toward the front side (e.g., in a direction toward the +X axis). One side of the first outer layer (130) in which the folding process is performed may form a step, thereby forming a 5-1 flange portion (156). For example, the first outer layer (130) may include a 1-1 outer layer (131) formed to wrap around one side of the core material (110), and a 1-2 outer layer (132) formed to wrap around the other side of the core material (110).

[0218] Referring to FIG. 8d, when the first-1 outer layer material (131) and the first-2 outer layer material (132) are combined, an extension portion (133) is formed by extending outwardly in the receiving space, and the extension portion (133) can form a fifth-1 flange portion (156) by folding at least once (e.g., multiple times). FIG. 8d can be seen that a fifth-1 flange portion (156) of a specified thickness (e.g., first thickness (d1)) is formed by folding the extension portion (133) multiple times. The specified thickness (e.g., first thickness (d1)) is the thickness of the portion inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (e.g., auxiliary insulation material (200) of FIG. 8a), and may be approximately 2 mm or more. The specified thickness (e.g., first thickness (d1)) is a thickness that protrudes outward from the side (152) of the first outer layer (130), which limits deviation from the auxiliary insulation (200), and may be approximately 2 mm or more.

[0219] According to one embodiment, the 5-1 flange portion (156) formed by the first outer shell material (130) may be formed to extend into or have a fitted joint shape into the auxiliary insulation material (200) and to restrict the movement of the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0220] Referring to FIGS. 9a to 9d, the vacuum insulation material (100) of the insulation assembly (60) may include a core material (110), a first outer layer material (130) covering the core material (110), and a second outer layer material (300) configured to surround the first outer layer material (130).

[0221] Referring to FIG. 9a, the vacuum insulation material (100) may have a flange shape on one side so that the vacuum insulation material (100) does not detach from the auxiliary insulation material (200). The second outer layer material (300) may include a connecting portion (310) that is connected to the auxiliary insulation material (200), and an exposed portion (320) on one side that is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200). For example, the exposed portion (320) of the second outer layer material (300) may be a portion facing the outside of the second outer layer material (300) (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3) and may be a portion that comes into contact with the outer side (13). For example, the joining portion (310) of the second outer layer (300) may be a portion that contacts the auxiliary insulation material (200), other than the surface facing the outside of the vacuum insulation material (100) (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3).

[0222] According to one embodiment, the joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) may include a front surface (311) facing the inner surface (e.g., inner surface (11) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3), and sides (312) facing in a direction different from the front surface (311).

[0223] FIG. 9b discloses a top view projection of only the vacuum insulation material (100) of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 9a. Referring to FIG. 9b, the second outer layer (130) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may include an exposed portion (320) exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200) and a 5-2 flange portion (316) for restricting separation from the auxiliary insulation material (200). When viewed from above, the core material (110) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to be surrounded by the first outer layer (130). The first outer layer (130) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to be surrounded by the second outer layer (300).

[0224] FIG. 9c discloses a bottom view projection of only the vacuum insulation material (100) of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 9a. Referring to FIG. 9c, the second outer layer (300) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a connecting portion (310) that is connected (or in contact) with the auxiliary insulation material (200) and a 5-2 flange portion (316) for limiting separation from the auxiliary insulation material (200). When viewed from below, the core material (110) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to be surrounded by the first outer layer (130). The first outer layer (130) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to be surrounded by the second outer layer (300).

[0225] In the cross-sectional view with reference to FIG. 9d, the second outer layer (300) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may perform a folding process in which an edge portion (or extension portion) protruding toward the side wall (312) is folded at least once (e.g., multiple times) in a direction toward the front side (e.g., in a direction toward the +X axis). One side of the second outer layer (300) in which the folding process is performed may form a step, thereby forming a 5-2 flange portion (316). For example, the second outer layer (300) may include a 2-1 outer layer (301) and a 2-2 outer layer (302).

[0226] Referring to FIG. 9d, when the 2-1 outer shell material (301) and the 2-2 outer shell material (302) are combined, an extension portion (303) is formed by extending outwardly in the receiving space, and the extension portion (303) can form a 5-2 flange portion (316) by folding at least once (e.g., multiple times). FIG. 9d can be seen that a 5-2 flange portion (316) of a specified thickness (e.g., 2nd thickness (d2)) is formed as the extension portion (303) is folded multiple times. The specified thickness (e.g., 2nd thickness (d2)) is the thickness of the portion inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (e.g., auxiliary insulation material (200) in FIG. 9a), and may be approximately 2 mm or more. The above specified thickness (e.g., second thickness (d2)) is a thickness protruding outward from the side (312) of the second outer covering material (300), which limits deviation from the auxiliary insulation material (200), and may be approximately 2 mm or more.

[0227] According to one embodiment, the folding process of the second outer shell material (300) may be performed after the folding process of the first outer shell material (130), or may be performed without the folding process of the first outer shell material (130).

[0228] According to one embodiment, the 5-2 flange portion (316) formed by the 2nd outer shell material (300) may be formed to extend into the auxiliary insulation material (200) or to have a fitted joint shape, thereby restricting the movement of the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0229] According to one embodiment, the edge portion of the first outer layer (130) and / or the second outer layer (300) that is folded to form a step can be named a fifth flange structure. According to one embodiment, due to the flange shape of the first outer layer (130) and the second outer layer (300) of the vacuum insulation material (100), separation caused by insert injection of the auxiliary insulation material (200) and the vacuum insulation material (100) can be limited (e.g., prevented), and an insulation assembly (60) with improved strength can be provided.

[0230] FIG. 10a is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material (100) forming a sixth flange structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0231] FIG. 10b is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a vacuum insulation material (100) forming a sixth flange structure and a second outer covering material covering the same, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0232] Referring to FIGS. 10a and FIGS. 10b, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulation material (100) and an auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0233] The configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIGS. 10a and FIGS. 109b may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIGS. 1 to FIGS. 8b.

[0234] The embodiments of FIGS. 10a and 10b can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9db and FIG. 11.

[0235] Referring to FIG. 10a, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulated panel (100) and an auxiliary insulated panel (200).

[0236] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (e.g., the core material (110) of FIG. 3), and a first outer covering material (e.g., the first outer covering material (130) of FIG. 3) covering the core material (110).

[0237] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned to wrap around a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100) and can improve insulation performance together with the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) provides a space where the vacuum insulation material (100) can be seated, and one side is open so that a portion of the second outer covering material (300) can be exposed.

[0238] Hereinafter, a sixth flange structure formed by a plurality of vacuum insulation materials (100), which is different from the fourth flange structure formed in the vacuum insulation material (100) of FIG. 7a, will be described focusing on the following.

[0239] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a plurality of vacuum insulation materials (100). For example, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a first vacuum insulation material (100a) and a second vacuum insulation material (100b) laminated with the first vacuum insulation material (100a). The first vacuum insulation material (100a) may be positioned to face the front side (e.g., the inner side (11) of FIG. 3) of the refrigerator (e.g., the refrigerator (1) of FIG. 3), and the second vacuum insulation material (100b) may be positioned to face the rear side (e.g., the outer side (13) of FIG. 3). As the area of ​​the second vacuum insulation material (100b) is formed to be larger than the area of ​​the first vacuum insulation material (100a), the laminated configuration of the plurality of vacuum insulation materials (100) may form a step. The above step (e.g., the edge of the second vacuum insulation material (100b)) may have a flange shape (e.g., the sixth flange portion (157)) so that the vacuum insulation materials (100) do not detach from the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0240] According to one embodiment, the second vacuum insulation material (100b) may have a shape that is more extended (or protruded) in a direction perpendicular to the external direction (e.g., X-axis direction) than the first vacuum insulation material (100a). According to one embodiment, the second vacuum insulation material (100b) may be seated within a recess of the auxiliary insulation material (200), and the first vacuum insulation material (100a) may be placed on the second vacuum insulation material (100b). The first vacuum insulation material (100a) and the second vacuum insulation material (100b) may be joined by an injection molding process or a bonding process. The first vacuum insulation material (100a) placed on the opening side of the auxiliary insulation material (200) may be restricted from moving outward as it is fixed inside the auxiliary insulation material (200) due to the flange shape of the second vacuum insulation material (100b) joined with the first vacuum insulation material (100a).

[0241] Referring to FIG. 10b, the insulation assembly (60) may further include a second outer covering (300) configured to wrap around the vacuum insulation material (100). The configuration of the vacuum insulation material (100) in FIG. 9b may be based on the configuration of the vacuum insulation material (100) in FIG. 9a.

[0242] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may be formed to surround the first vacuum insulation material (100a) and the second vacuum insulation material (100b). The second outer layer (300) may be formed to surround the remaining portion excluding the contact area (e.g., a joining area) between the first vacuum insulation material (100a) and the second vacuum insulation material (100b). The second outer layer (300) may be positioned to surround the sixth flange portion (157) so as to correspond to the shape of the sixth flange portion (157) of the second vacuum insulation material (100b). The second outer layer (300) may be formed to restrict the movement of the vacuum insulation material (100) by having an extension or fitting-joint shape into the auxiliary insulation material (200) together with the sixth flange portion (157) of the second vacuum insulation material (100b).

[0243] According to one embodiment, due to a flange shape formed by a stacked configuration of a plurality of vacuum insulation materials (100), separation caused by insert injection of an auxiliary insulation material (200) and a vacuum insulation material (100) can be limited (e.g., prevented), and an insulation assembly (60) with improved strength can be provided.

[0244] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing an insulation assembly including a second outer shell formed to surround a vacuum insulation material and an auxiliary insulation material, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0245] Referring to FIG. 11, the insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulation material (100), an auxiliary insulation material (200), and a second outer covering material (300).

[0246] The configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 11 may be partially or entirely identical to the configuration of the insulation assembly (60) of FIG. 1 to FIG. 10b.

[0247] The embodiment of FIG. 11 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1 to FIG. 10b.

[0248] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) may include a core material (e.g., the core material (110) of FIG. 3) and a first envelope material (e.g., the first envelope material (130) of FIG. 3) covering the core material (110).

[0249] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary insulation material (200) is positioned to surround a portion of the vacuum insulation material (100) and can improve insulation performance together with the vacuum insulation material (100). The auxiliary insulation material (200) provides a space where the vacuum insulation material (100) can be seated, and one side is open so that a portion of the second outer covering material (300) can be exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0250] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) may be configured to completely enclose the vacuum insulation material (100) and the auxiliary insulation material (200). For example, when the vacuum insulation material (100) is inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (200) (e.g., insert injection), the second outer layer (300) may seal the vacuum insulation material (100) and the auxiliary insulation material (200) so that the second outer layer (300) corresponds to the outer shape of the vacuum insulation material (100) and the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0251] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) is formed to wrap the vacuum insulation material (100) and the auxiliary insulation material (200) together, thereby preventing the vacuum insulation material (100) from separating from the auxiliary insulation material (200). As the second outer layer (300) covers the vacuum insulation material (100) and the auxiliary insulation material (200), it can form the outer surface of the insulation assembly (60). For example, a part of the second outer layer (300) can cover the exposed portion of the vacuum insulation material (100), and another part of the second outer layer (300) can cover the outer side of the auxiliary insulation material (200).

[0252] According to one embodiment, the second outer layer (300) is configured to surround a cubic (or plate-shaped) insulating structure (a combined configuration of vacuum insulating material (100) and auxiliary insulating material (200), but is not limited thereto and can be easily modified into various structures corresponding to various insulating structures.

[0253] According to one embodiment, due to the shape of the second outer layer (300) that seals the insulation structure (combined configuration of vacuum insulation (100) and auxiliary insulation (200) at once), separation caused by insert injection of the auxiliary insulation (200) and vacuum insulation (100) can be limited (e.g., prevented), and an insulation assembly (60) with improved strength can be provided.

[0254] Generally, insulation assemblies in electronic devices (e.g., refrigerators) can provide additional insulation by applying urethane foam to the areas excluding the vacuum insulation. However, insulation assemblies containing urethane foam may have a reduced footprint due to the space required for the urethane filling. To address this, vacuum insulation (e.g., vacuum insulated panel) can be molded and combined with auxiliary insulation (e.g., auxiliary insulated panel); however, there is a risk of detachment as the vacuum insulation may not adhere strongly to the auxiliary insulation.

[0255] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can provide an insulating assembly with improved thermal insulation performance and shear stiffness.

[0256] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may form a vacuum insulation material (e.g., vacuum insulated panel) and an auxiliary insulation material (e.g., auxiliary insulated panel) through insert injection molding, and may form a flange structure to maintain a strong bond between the auxiliary insulation material and the vacuum insulation material. Accordingly, the vacuum insulation material placed inside the auxiliary insulation material may not detach.

[0257] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a vacuum insulation material (e.g., vacuum insulated panel), an auxiliary insulation material (e.g., auxiliary insulated panel), and a second outer shell material configured to surround the vacuum insulation material. The second outer shell material has a flange shape, and one side of the second outer shell material protrudes and is inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material, thereby restricting (e.g., preventing) the vacuum insulation material from detaching from the auxiliary insulation material.

[0258] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a vacuum insulation material (e.g., a vacuum insulated panel), an auxiliary insulation material (e.g., an auxiliary insulated panel), a second outer shell material configured to surround the vacuum insulation material, and a flange element disposed between the vacuum insulation material and the second outer shell material. The flange element may protrude and be inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material together with the second outer shell material to restrict (e.g., prevent) the vacuum insulation material from detaching from the auxiliary insulation material.

[0259] A refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a vacuum insulation material (e.g., a vacuum insulated panel) and an auxiliary insulation material (e.g., an auxiliary insulated panel). One side of the vacuum insulation material may protrude and be inserted into the interior of the auxiliary insulation material to restrict (e.g., prevent) the vacuum insulation material from detaching from the auxiliary insulation material.

[0260] 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.

[0261] A refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body (10), a door (30) rotatably connected to open and close the main body, a storage room (20) disposed inside the main body for storing food, and an insulation assembly (60) disposed adjacent to the storage room and inside the main body. The insulation assembly (60) may include a vacuum insulation material (100) comprising a core material (110) and at least one outer covering material configured to cover the core material (110), and an auxiliary insulation material (200) having one side open and providing a space for the vacuum insulation material (100) to be seated. A portion of the at least one outer covering material may be configured to protrude inward toward the auxiliary insulation material (200) to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving outward.

[0262] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a first outer layer (130) configured to surround the core material, and a second outer layer (300) configured to surround the first outer layer (130), comprising a connecting portion (310) that is coupled to the auxiliary insulation material (200) and an exposed portion (320) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material.

[0263] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may include a first outer layer (130) configured to surround the core material and comprising a connecting portion (150) that is coupled to the auxiliary insulation material (200) and an exposed portion (160) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material.

[0264] According to one embodiment, the area of ​​the bonding portion of the first outer shell material (130) or the second outer shell material (300) may be larger than the area of ​​the exposed portion.

[0265] According to one embodiment, a portion of the joining portion of the first outer shell material (130) or the second outer shell material (300) may be a flange portion and may extend in a direction perpendicular to the outer direction (e.g., X-axis direction) than the exposed portion (e.g., Z-axis direction).

[0266] According to one embodiment, one side of the joint portion of the first outer layer material (130) or the second outer layer material (300) may be configured not to overlap with the core material (110) of the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0267] According to one embodiment, one side of the joint portion of the first outer layer (130) or the second outer layer (300) has a specified thickness protruding into the auxiliary insulation material (200) in a flange shape inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (200), and the specified thickness may be 2 mm or more.

[0268] According to one embodiment, the joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) includes a front side wall (311) and side walls extending vertically from the front side wall (311), and the front side wall may include a first flange portion (313) that extends outwardly from one side of the vacuum insulation material facing it and is inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material.

[0269] According to one embodiment, the joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) includes a front side wall (311) and side walls extending vertically from the front side wall (311), and at least a portion of the side walls may include a second flange portion (314) that extends outward from the outer surface of the side wall toward one side of the vacuum insulation material facing the front wall and is inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material.

[0270] According to one embodiment, a flange element (400) located between the second outer layer (300) and the vacuum insulation material (100) is further included, and one side of the flange element (400) protrudes into the auxiliary insulation material (200) to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving in the outer direction.

[0271] According to one embodiment, the flange portion (155) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be configured to protrude inwardly toward the auxiliary insulation material (200) to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving outward. A portion of the connecting portion (310) of the second outer covering material (300) may be positioned to surround the flange portion of the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0272] According to one embodiment, the flange shape of the vacuum insulation material may include a stepped shape or an inclined shape.

[0273] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material may include a first vacuum insulation material (100a) and a second vacuum insulation material (100b) of different sizes. The laminated structure of the first vacuum insulation material (100a) and the second vacuum insulation material (100b) may be configured to restrict the movement of the vacuum insulation material (100) in the outward direction due to a stepped shape.

[0274] According to one embodiment, the vacuum insulation material (100) and the auxiliary insulation material (200) can be manufactured by an insert injection method.

[0275] According to one embodiment, the first outer layer (130) and the second outer layer (300) of the vacuum insulation material (100) may be made of a flexible material.

[0276] According to one embodiment, the auxiliary insulation material (200) is formed to surround the vacuum insulation material (100) and includes a supporting surface (220), and the supporting surface may be placed in contact with the vacuum insulation material (100).

[0277] An insulation assembly (60) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a vacuum insulation material (100) comprising a core material (110) and at least one outer covering material (130; 300) configured to cover the core material (110), and an auxiliary insulation material (200) having one side open and providing a space for the vacuum insulation material (100) to be seated. A portion of the at least one outer covering material may be configured to protrude inwardly toward the auxiliary insulation material (200) to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving outward.

[0278] According to one embodiment, the insulation assembly (60) may further include a second outer layer (300) configured to surround the vacuum insulation material (100) and comprising a connecting portion (310) that is coupled to the auxiliary insulation material (200) and an exposed portion (320) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material.

[0279] According to one embodiment, the area of ​​the bonding portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) may be larger than the area of ​​the exposed portion (320).

[0280] According to one embodiment, a portion of the joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) may be a flange portion and may extend in a direction perpendicular to the outer direction than the exposed portion.

[0281] According to one embodiment, one side of the connecting portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) may be configured not to overlap with the vacuum insulation material (100).

Claims

1. In the refrigerator (1), Main body (10); A door (30) rotatably connected to open and close the main body; A storage room (20) disposed inside the main body and for storing food; and It includes an insulating assembly (60) that is adjacent to the storage room and disposed inside the main body, and The above insulation assembly (60) is, A vacuum insulation material (100) comprising a core material (110) and at least one outer covering material configured to cover the core material (110); and It provides a space for the above vacuum insulation material (100) to be seated and includes an auxiliary insulation material (200) with one side open, and A refrigerator, wherein a portion of the above-mentioned at least one outer shell material is configured to protrude inwardly from the auxiliary insulation material (200) to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving outward.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above insulation assembly (60) is, A first outer shell material (130) configured to surround the above core material; and A refrigerator comprising a second outer shell (300) configured to surround the first outer shell (130), and including a connecting portion (310) that is coupled to the auxiliary insulation (200) and an exposed portion (320) on one side that is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation.

3. In Paragraph 1, A refrigerator comprising a first outer shell (130) configured to surround the core material, a connecting portion (150) that is coupled to the auxiliary insulation material (200), and an exposed portion (160) on one side which is exposed to the outside of the auxiliary insulation material.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, A refrigerator in which the area of ​​the joint portion of the first outer shell material (130) or the second outer shell material (300) is larger than the area of ​​the exposed portion.

5. In any one of paragraphs 2 through 4, A refrigerator in which a portion of the joint portion of the first outer shell material (130) or the second outer shell material (300) is a flange portion extending in a direction perpendicular to the outer direction (e.g., X-axis direction) from the exposed portion.

6. In any one of paragraphs 2 through 5, A refrigerator configured such that one side of the joint portion of the first outer shell material (130) or the second outer shell material (300) does not overlap with the core material (110) of the vacuum insulation material (100).

7. In any one of paragraphs 2 through 6, One side of the joint portion of the first outer shell material (130) or the second outer shell material (300) has a designated thickness protruding into the auxiliary insulation material (200) in a flange shape inserted into the auxiliary insulation material (200), and the designated thickness is 2 mm or more, a refrigerator.

8. In any one of paragraphs 2 through 7, The joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) includes a front side wall (311) and side walls extending vertically from the front side wall (311). A refrigerator, wherein the above-mentioned front wall includes a first flange portion (313) that extends outwardly from one side of the facing vacuum insulation material and is inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation material.

9. In any one of paragraphs 2 through 7, The joining portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) includes a front side wall (311) and side walls extending vertically from the front side wall (311). A refrigerator comprising at least a portion of the above side walls, which extends outward from the outer surface of the side wall toward one surface of the vacuum insulation facing the front wall and includes a second flange portion (314) inserted into the inner side of the auxiliary insulation.

10. In any one of paragraphs 2 through 7, It further includes a flange element (400) located between the second outer shell material (300) and the vacuum insulation material (100), and A refrigerator in which one side of the above flange element (400) protrudes into the auxiliary insulation material (200) and is configured to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving in the outward direction.

11. In any one of paragraphs 2 through 7, The flange portion (155) of the vacuum insulation material (100) is configured to protrude inwardly toward the auxiliary insulation material (200) to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving in the outward direction, and A refrigerator in which a portion of the connecting portion (310) of the second outer shell material (300) is positioned to surround the flange portion of the vacuum insulation material (100).

12. In Paragraph 11, A refrigerator in which the flange shape of the above vacuum insulation material includes a stepped shape or an inclined shape.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 7, The above vacuum insulation material includes a first vacuum insulation material (100a) and a second vacuum insulation material (100b) of different sizes, and A refrigerator in which the laminated structure of the first vacuum insulation material (100a) and the second vacuum insulation material (100b) is configured to restrict the vacuum insulation material (100) from moving in the outer direction due to the stepped shape.

14. In any one of paragraphs 2 through 13, A refrigerator in which the first outer layer (130) and the second outer layer (300) of the vacuum insulation material (100) are made of a flexible material.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 14, The above auxiliary insulation material (200) is formed to surround the vacuum insulation material (100) and includes a supporting surface (220). The above-mentioned mounting surface is a refrigerator that is placed in contact with the vacuum insulation material (100).

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