JP2005315479A - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve problems in a conventional refrigerator manufactured and marketed by integrally forming a communication unit with the refrigerator wherein the communication unit must be easily added or replaced according to a change in the way of living of a user and, since a high-tension is generally applied to the main control part of the refrigerator to which the communication unit is connected, safety in its mounting and dismounting operations must be secured. <P>SOLUTION: A home communication circuit is formed on an operation control substrate, the connection terminals of the home communication circuit are covered by a cover, holes or openings connected to the connection terminals from the outside are formed in the cover, and the holes or openings are closed by terminal covers. Accordingly, when the communication unit is replaced, the large cover fixed with a plurality of screws must not be removed but merely the small terminal covers only at the connection terminal parts may be removed. As a result, the risk of touching the high-tension applied to the operation control substrate and the home communication circuit can be reduced. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a refrigerator that can be connected to a home network.

  As one of conventional refrigerators that can be connected to a home network, as shown in FIG. 2 and the specification of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-224891, the refrigerator has an operating device (20) and a server (24), The cooking device such as the above and the operation device (20) exchange cooking data via the short-range wireless data communication means. Further, as short-distance wireless data communication means on the refrigerator side, a communication unit (48) including an antenna (49) illustrated in FIG. 5 and a communication control unit (50), as shown in FIG. ) As a communication unit (51). Note that the communication unit (51) including the antenna (49) and the like was configured integrally with the main controller (164) of the refrigerator by the wiring cord (53).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-224891

  At present, household networks are not so popular, so it is often not connected to the network at the time of purchase of the refrigerator. However, the average life of the refrigerator has a life of more than 10 years even for general users. Therefore, there are many cases where the refrigerator user connects the refrigerator to the home network in accordance with the necessity of the home network, for example, between 3 and 5 years after purchasing the refrigerator.

  In addition, since the information to be processed in the home network changes from time to time depending on how the refrigerator user lives, it is also necessary to change the information transmitted and received by the communication unit (51), but in the conventional example, the communication unit (51) Is manufactured and sold together with the refrigerator, the information processed by the communication unit (51) is also limited. Therefore, recently, it is necessary to prepare several types of communication units that are equivalent to the above communication units and have different information that can be transmitted and received, and to replace the communication units in accordance with changes in the way of living of the refrigerator user. It has occurred. In addition, as a communication unit that can be replaced, not only the communication unit (51) for the cooking system shown in the conventional example, but also various communication units such as for refrigerator operation information, stored food information or failure information, It has become necessary for general information devices such as general personal computers and video cameras to be arbitrarily connectable according to the necessity.

  From the above viewpoints, there is a need to be able to easily attach and remove the communication unit (51) connected to the refrigerator body, but the main control unit (164) of the refrigerator to which the communication unit (51) is connected is generally Since a high voltage is applied, sufficient safety precautions are required during replacement work. Further, since the main control unit (164) is generally controlled by a microcomputer, sufficient care is required to prevent water droplets and dust from adhering to the surface. Also, since the wiring cord (53) that connects the main control unit (164) and the communication unit (51) usually uses wires covered with a soft synthetic resin, it is sandwiched between parts by careless during removal and installation work. This could lead to leakage, electric shock and signal noise.

  Regarding the above problems, the above Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-224891 does not disclose a specific structure for dealing with the above problem.

  Accordingly, the present invention provides a refrigerator structure in which an external device such as a communication unit is independently configured to suppress an increase in manufacturing cost of the refrigerator itself, and the external device such as a communication unit for the refrigerator can be replaced safely and easily. It is to provide.

  In addition, signal radio waves for receiving and transmitting information for home networks such as refrigerators are usually very weak. For example, in the case of a specific low power radio regulated by the Radio Law, the output level is about 10 mW. When there is a metal body that may become magnetized between transmission and reception, there are many cases in which reception and transmission of the signal radio waves are hindered. From that point of view, refrigerators installed in homes are usually installed in kitchens, etc., and there are kitchen equipment such as metal cooking tables, gas tables, or washrooms around them. In many cases, the signal radio wave is disturbed by a metal kitchen device, which hinders the reception and transmission of the signal. Therefore, there is a need to arbitrarily change the mounting position of the communication unit that receives and transmits weak radio waves according to the installation state of kitchen equipment such as a metal cooking table, gas table, or washing room that constitutes the periphery of the refrigerator installed in each home. However, regarding the above-mentioned problem, the above Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-224891 does not disclose a specific structure for dealing with it.

  Therefore, the present invention provides a refrigerator configuration in which a communication unit can be attached at a position that is not easily affected by magnetic noise or the like, and in which the arrival distance of signal radio waves is unstable and transmission accuracy errors are less likely to occur.

  The present invention provides an in-home communication circuit on the operation control board, covers a connection terminal of the in-home communication circuit with a cover, and provides a hole or opening in the cover that can be connected to the connection terminal from the outside. Since the terminal cover is closed, when the refrigerator user needs it, it is possible to provide a refrigerator that can be connected to a home network by simply removing the terminal cover and connecting the communication unit connector to the connection terminal.

  In addition, an in-home communication circuit is provided on the operation control board, the connection terminal of the in-home communication circuit is covered with a cover, and a hole or an opening through which the connection tool can be connected from the outside to the connection terminal is provided in the connection terminal. Because it is provided in close proximity, it is not necessary to remove the large body cover fixed with multiple fixing screws when adding or replacing the communication unit. Since it is only necessary to remove it, it is possible to reduce the risk of touching the high voltage applied to the operation control board and the home communication circuit. Further, since the area for exposing the operation control board and the home communication circuit is small during the replacement work, it is possible to reduce the dripping of water droplets and dust on the surface of the operation control board and the home communication circuit. In addition, since it is possible to reduce the occurrence of pinching of the wiring cord due to careless mistakes during installation of the communication unit, it is possible to provide a refrigerator structure that is less likely to cause leakage, electric shock, and signal noise.

  Further, an operation check terminal is provided on the operation control board, the operation check terminal is covered with a cover, and a hole or an opening that can be connected to the operation check terminal from the outside is provided in the cover. Since the hole or opening connected to the connection terminal of the home communication circuit from the outside is shared, it is only necessary to use one terminal cover for closing the hole or opening, so that the refrigerator structure is advantageous in terms of manufacturing cost.

  Further, in a refrigerator having a hinge cover that covers a hinge that pivotally supports a door, a connection terminal of a wiring cord wired from a home communication circuit can be installed in the hinge cover, and a connection tool can be connected to the connection terminal from the outside. Since the hole or opening is provided in the hinge cover and the hole or opening is closed by the terminal cover, the space on the refrigerator ceiling surface can be used when adding or replacing the communication unit. Since there is not, a structure with good workability can be provided.

  Further, in a refrigerator having a hinge cover that covers a hinge that pivotally supports the door, a connection terminal of a wiring cord wired from a home communication circuit is installed in the hinge cover, and a surface other than the upper surface of the connection terminal corresponding position is installed. Since the hinge cover is provided with a notch capable of forming a hole or opening for connecting a connection tool from the outside to the connection terminal, it is not necessary to use a terminal cover for closing the hole or opening, which is advantageous in terms of manufacturing cost. It becomes a refrigerator structure.

  Further, in the refrigerator having a door on the front of the box opening, an operation control board and a home communication circuit are provided on the box, and a connection terminal of a wiring cord wired from the home communication circuit is installed on the door. Covering the installed connection terminal with a cover, and providing a hole or opening in the cover to which a connection tool can be connected from the outside to the connection terminal, and closing the hole or opening with the terminal cover. A necessary communication unit can be added to provide a refrigerator that can be connected to a home network. Moreover, since the space of the front surface in which the refrigerator is installed can be used when the communication unit is added or the communication unit is replaced, it is not necessary to move the refrigerator itself, so that a structure with good workability can be provided.

  Further, in the refrigerator having a door on the front of the box opening, an operation control board and a home communication circuit are provided on the box, and a connection terminal of a wiring cord wired from the home communication circuit is installed on the door. The installed connection terminal is covered with a cover, and the cover is provided with a notch capable of forming a hole or opening for connecting a connection tool from the outside to the connection terminal, so that it is not necessary to use a terminal cover for closing the hole or opening. Since it is good, the refrigerator structure is advantageous in terms of manufacturing cost.

  In addition, since the network-compatible refrigerator display unit is provided on the cover surface covering the connection terminals or on the surface of the terminal cover, it is possible to provide a refrigerator in which the position of the home network connection terminal can be clearly seen even after several years have passed since the purchase of the refrigerator.

  As described above, the refrigerator of the present invention can be connected to the home network by removing only the terminal cover and connecting the connection unit of the communication unit to the connection terminal of the home communication circuit when the refrigerator user needs it. A refrigerator can be provided.

  In addition, when adding or replacing a communication unit, it is not necessary to remove the large body cover fixed with multiple fixing screws, etc., and it is only necessary to remove the small terminal cover that closes only the relevant part of the connection terminal. Further, it is possible to reduce the touching of the high voltage applied to the operation control board and the home communication circuit. In addition, since it is possible to reduce the occurrence of pinching of the wiring cord, which can cause careless mistakes during the installation of the communication unit, it is possible to provide a refrigerator that is less likely to cause leakage, electric shock, and signal noise.

  In addition, since the wiring cord of the exchangeable communication unit can be set to a sufficient length, it is possible to provide a configuration in which the antenna of the communication unit can be installed in a place with the least radio interference around the refrigerator.

  The details of the present invention will be described below based on an embodiment shown in the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is an installation explanatory view of a refrigerator and a communication unit showing a first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, 30 is a refrigerator, and 10 is a home communication terminal that serves as a home gateway of a home network. A communication unit 20 wirelessly communicates information in the refrigerator 30 with the external antenna 11 of the home communication terminal 10. As will be described later, the antenna unit 21 for transmitting and receiving the radio wave of the communication unit 20 is configured to be installed at a position where the radio wave interference of the transmitted and received radio waves is the smallest. Moreover, although the communication unit 20 and the refrigerator 30 are comprised so that it may manufacture and sell each independently, FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 mentioned later on description are the information of the refrigerator which a refrigerator user requires by the way of life. The communication unit 20 that can transmit and receive is shown as an example when it is attached after purchasing the refrigerator.

  A connection example of the communication unit 20 and the refrigerator 30 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 60 denotes an operation control board that controls the operation of the refrigerator 30, and is installed on the refrigerator back surface 34 a that is thermally insulated from the interior 33 of the refrigerator 30 by the heat insulating material 32. Reference numeral 50 denotes an in-home communication circuit configured to be able to communicate information of the operation control board 60 to the wireless communication unit 20 described above. The home communication circuit 50 has a connection terminal 52 configured to be connectable to the connection tool 24 installed at the tip of the wiring cord 23 of the wireless communication unit 20 described above.

  The operation control board 60 has an operation confirmation terminal 61. By connecting a commercial test device to the operation confirmation terminal 61, a commercial confirmation test such as an accelerated operation test in a refrigerator production line is performed. Alternatively, it is configured to perform failure diagnosis confirmation when an accident occurs while using the refrigerator.

  A cover 37 is formed so that dust and water droplets from the outside do not adhere to the domestic communication circuit 50 including the connection terminal 52 and the operation control board 60 including the operation confirmation terminal 61. 37a is a hole or opening provided in the cover 37 so that a commercial test device can be connected to the operation confirmation terminal 61. The hole or opening 37a is a terminal cover 38 so that dust and water droplets do not enter inside. Is blocked. 37 b is a hole or opening provided in the cover 37 at a position close to the connection terminal 52 so that the connection tool 24 formed at the tip of the connection cord 23 of the wireless communication unit 20 can be connected to the connection terminal 52. As will be described later, the hole or opening 37b is closed by a terminal cover 39 so that dust and water droplets do not enter inside. Reference numeral 35 denotes a seal packing configured to prevent external water droplets and dust from entering between the cover 37 and the substrate installation portion 34a. A plurality of fixing screws 36 are provided between the cover 37 and the refrigerator back portion 34. It is installed between.

  In addition, due to changes in ambient conditions, even if a water droplet adheres to the wiring cord 23, a draining portion G is formed at the terminal cover outlet portion of the wiring cord 23 so that the water droplet does not enter the board installation portion 34a. Has been.

  FIGS. 1 to 2 show the case where the wireless communication unit 20 is connected to the refrigerator 30. Depending on the way of life, some refrigerator users may have refrigerator information in the initial stage of the home network because of the purchase cost. May not be connected to the network. Therefore, the refrigerator of the present invention is configured to manufacture and sell the refrigerator without the wireless communication unit 20 attached. FIG. 3 showing a cross section of the main part of the refrigerator will be described.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory view showing a state before the communication unit 20 described in FIG. 2 is attached. The home communication circuit 50 including the connection terminal 52 and the cover 37 are the same as those described in FIG. Are the same.

  The terminal cover 39 that closes the hole or opening 37b formed so that the connection tool 24 (24 in FIG. 2) can be connected to the connection terminal 52 from the outside is installed so that it can be attached to and removed from the hole or opening 37b. In the state where the hole or opening 37b is closed with the terminal cover 39, external dust and water droplets do not enter the substrate mounting portion 34a. In other words, the terminal cover 39 is configured not to be detached from the hole or the opening 37b during normal use by the refrigerator user. However, when the communication unit 20 is connected, the terminal cover 39 is not connected. By inserting a tool such as a flat-blade screwdriver into the flange portion B, it can be removed from the hole or opening 37b. In addition, the terminal cover 38 that closes the hole or opening 37a is installed in the hole or opening 37a so as to be attachable / detachable. When the hole or opening 37a is closed by the terminal cover 38, an external cover is provided. The structure is such that dust and water droplets do not enter the substrate mounting portion 34a. In other words, the terminal cover 38 is configured so as not to be removed from the hole or opening 37a during normal use by the refrigerator user. By inserting a tool such as a flat-blade screwdriver into the flange E of 38, it can be removed from the hole or opening 37a.

  Reference numeral 40 denotes an obturator disposed on the terminal cover 39 so as to be at an angle Θ1 smaller than 90 degrees with the terminal cover 39. That is, after the obturator 40 is removed, the wiring cord 23 is disposed in that portion as shown in FIG. Even if it adheres to F, the angle Θ1 is set so that the water droplet does not enter the substrate mounting portion 34a.

  Next, FIG. 4 which is explanatory drawing of a communication unit and a terminal cover is demonstrated.

  FIG. 4A shows a configuration example of the terminal cover 39 and the communication unit 20 with the terminal cover 39 removed from the cover 37 described with reference to FIG.

  When the terminal cover 39 is removed from the cover 37 and the obturator 40 is removed using a tool such as pliers, the through-hole 39a into which the above-described wiring cord 23 (23 in FIG. 2) can be inserted substantially at the center. And a notch 39b into which the wiring cord 23 can be attached. Therefore, when the communication unit 20 is attached to the refrigerator, the terminal cover 39 is attached to the wiring cord portion 23 of the communication unit 20 as shown by the phantom line in FIG. After attaching to the connection terminal 52 shown, the terminal cover 39 attached to the wiring cord 23 may be attached to the hole or opening 37b. In other words, since the communication unit 20 can be attached to the connection terminal 52 without removing the cover 37, the wiring cord 23 of the communication unit is sandwiched between the cover 37 and the back surface portion 34 due to a handling mistake during the mounting operation. The fear can be reduced. In addition, since the communication unit can be attached without removing the cover 37, the contact with the operation control board 60 to which a high voltage is applied during the operation can be reduced.

  FIG. 4B shows a case where a terminal cover 26 integrally formed with the wiring cord 23 is employed instead of the terminal cover 39 shown in FIG. That is, as an example of improving the airtightness between the terminal cover and the wiring cord 23, the terminal cover 26 may be integrally formed with the wiring cord 23 in advance.

  The length L1 of the wiring cord between the terminal cover 39 or the terminal cover 26 and the antenna unit 21 is determined so that the antenna unit 21 of the communication unit is free of radio interference around the refrigerator after the connection unit 24 is attached to the refrigerator. It is set with a length sufficient to be installed in the fewest positions. In other words, the communication unit is located in a position that is not easily affected by magnetic noise or the like such as metallic kitchen equipment installed around the refrigerator 30 and is less likely to cause instability of signal radio waves and transmission error. The L1 dimension is set to a length sufficient to attach the antenna portion 21.

  Next, a communication control example of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  Reference numeral 50 (92) denotes an in-home communication circuit configured to convert information of the central control unit 60a that controls the operation of the refrigerator into short-range wireless data communication and transmit the information to the communication unit 20. The home communication circuit 50 (92) has a connection terminal 52 (94) as an input / output terminal, and the connection terminal 52 (94) and the connection unit 24 of the communication unit are connected as described in FIG. Thus, any necessary information of the refrigerator or home network information can be transmitted / received to / from the above-described home communication terminal 10 (10 in FIG. 1) via the antenna 21.

  In addition, since the kind of information to be transmitted / received changes depending on the way of life of the refrigerator user and the change of the user's family structure, the above-described communication unit 20 can be replaced according to the necessity. Has been.

  Further, the wiring cord 23 and the connection tool 24 are configured so that the refrigerator information can be used by being taken into an external device 66 such as a personal computer or a camera depending on how the refrigerator user uses it. For example, as an example in which the connector 24 is in a 6-pin format, pins 1 and 2 are voltage terminals, pin 3 is a signal output terminal of the communication unit, pin 4 is a signal input terminal of the communication unit, pin 5 is It is desirable to use a signal output terminal of the external device and 6 pins as a signal input terminal of the external device.

  In addition, the operation confirmation terminal 61 to which the commercial test equipment 62 is connected is configured so that a commercial confirmation test can be normally performed in the refrigerator production line. Further, the failure information of the refrigerator can be obtained using the terminal 61. It is desirable to be configured so that

  For example, when the operation confirmation terminal 61 is in a 6-pin format, pins 1 and 6 are voltage terminals, 2 is an operation timer acceleration terminal, 3 is a signal input terminal for commercial tests, and 4 is A method of using a signal output terminal for the compressor rotation speed and using pin 5 as a signal output terminal for failure indication is desirable.

  An example of the arrangement of the connection terminals 52 (94) and the connection terminals 61 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 6, a hole or opening 37 b of the main body cover is provided so that the connection tool 24 of the communication unit described above can be connected to the connection terminal 52. Further, a cover hole or opening 37a independent from the hole or opening 37b is provided in the vicinity of the hole or opening 37b. From the hole or opening 37a to the operation confirmation terminal 61 used for commercial tests or failure diagnosis. The operation confirmation terminal 61 is provided so that the connection can be made. Therefore, when adding or replacing a communication unit, only the terminal cover 39 (39 in FIG. 2) that closes the hole or opening 37b may be attached and removed. Since the control board 60 and the like are not exposed, it is possible to create a situation where electrical safety is easily maintained.

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an essential part of a refrigerator showing a second embodiment of the present invention, and shows a cross-section of the above-described equivalent view of FIG. A feature of the second embodiment is that a hole or opening 77c provided in the cover 76c used when connecting the connection terminal from the outside to the connection terminal 72c of the home communication circuit 71c is connected to the operation control board 70c. That is, the terminal 75c is shared with a hole or opening 77c for connecting a device from the outside. That is, the connection hole or opening of the commercial test equipment 62 or the like described above with reference to FIG. 5 and the connection hole or opening of the communication unit 20 or the like are shared. Accordingly, since only one terminal cover 73c for closing the hole or opening 77c has to be used, the number of parts is reduced, and at the same time, the number of processing operations for closing the hole is reduced. I can do it.

  Next, an example of a planar relationship layout diagram of the connection terminal 72c and the connection terminal 75c described above will be described with reference to FIG. 8A is an example in which the connection terminal 72c and the connection terminal 75c are arranged in a substantially inverted T shape, and FIG. 8B is an example in which the connection terminal 72c and the connection terminal 75c are arranged in substantially parallel. . The holes or openings 77c provided in the cover in the case of FIGS. 8A and 8B are indicated by a two-dot chain line as a substantially circular or elliptical shape. It is obvious that the effect is the same even if it is formed in the opening.

  Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11 and FIG. FIG. 9 is a longitudinal section of a refrigerator showing a third embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, reference numeral 80 denotes a refrigerator having a plurality of doors 81 on the front surface of the opening, and has a substrate chamber 87 on the rear surface of which an operation control board 91 and a home communication circuit 92 are installed. . 93 is a wiring cord of the above-mentioned home communication circuit 92. The wiring cord 93 is hinged together with a wiring cord 95 (95 in FIG. 10) to be described later from the side wall of the substrate chamber 87 through the heat insulating wall 80a of the refrigerator box. As shown in FIG. 10, it is wired in the cover inner space 85b. FIG. 10 is a plan view of the ceiling surface of FIG. 9, and 83 is a hinge that pivotally supports the door 81. A hinge cover 85 is formed so as to cover the hinge 83, a cord outlet 80e described later, and the connection terminal 94 of the wiring cord 93 described above. The cord outlet 80e is provided on the ceiling surface of the refrigerator for guiding the wiring cord 93 of the home communication circuit 92 wired in the heat insulating material and the wiring cord 95 of the operation control board 91 to the hinge cover inner space 85b. As shown in FIG. 11, a rubber bush 98 is provided so that the above-described wiring cord is not damaged by the cord outlet 80e. 10 in FIG. 10 is a relay board that relays between the operation panel 97 provided on the door 81 and the operation control board 91, and is installed in the hinge cover inner space 85b.

  Next, the sectional shape of the above-described hinge cover 85 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 10, and the connection terminal 94, which is the tip of the wiring cord 93 passing through the heat insulating wall 80a, is installed in the space 85b covered with the hinge cover 85 described above. Yes. A hole or hole is formed in the hinge cover 85 so that the connection tool 24 (24 in FIG. 5) of the communication unit can be connected to the connection terminal 94 installed in the space 85b covered with the hinge cover 85 from the outside. An opening 85a is provided. A terminal cover 86 that closes the hole or opening 85a is provided so that dust and water droplets do not adhere to the connection terminal 94 from the outside.

  With this configuration, when connecting an optional communication unit or external device to the refrigerator, there is no need to remove the hinge cover 85 fixed with the fixing screw 84 or the like. Since it is sufficient to insert a tool such as a flat-blade screwdriver and remove the terminal cover 86, it is possible to provide a refrigerator that makes it easy to connect a communication unit or an external device. In addition, workability is good because the communication unit and the external device can be connected only on the refrigerator ceiling. In other words, a regular household refrigerator usually has a kitchen wall and kitchen equipment on the back and side surfaces, but the ceiling surface secures a space for condensing heat radiation to ensure the cooling performance of the refrigerator. For this reason, since the communication unit and the external device can be connected while the refrigerator is installed, a refrigerator with good workability can be provided.

  Note that the communication cover when the terminal cover 86 described with reference to FIG. 11 is removed and a communication unit sold separately is connected to the terminal cover 39 or the terminal cover 26 described with reference to FIG. It is self-evident to match the shape.

  Next, FIG. 12 showing a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 12 is a sectional view corresponding to FIG. The feature of the fourth embodiment is that the hinge cover 87 that covers the connection terminal 94 for connecting the communication unit and the external device is the hinge cover 87 on the projection surface in the side direction at the position corresponding to the connection terminal 94. For example, the hinge cover 87 on the surface other than the upper surface of the connection terminal 94 is provided with a cut. That is, a front surface notch 87b and a back surface notch 87c are provided at the periphery of a hole or a planned opening 87a of the hinge cover 87 that covers the connection terminal 94 for connecting the communication unit and the external device to the connection terminal 94 from the outside. In addition, only when the hole or planned opening 87a is opened, the 87a portion is cut with a tool such as pliers.

  With such a configuration, it is only necessary to cut the portion 87a only when a communication unit or an external device is connected. Further, the cuts 87b and 87c can be performed simultaneously with molding the hinge cover 87 itself, which is advantageous in terms of manufacturing cost. Can provide a simple refrigerator structure.

  It is obvious that the same effect can be obtained by using only the front surface cut 87b or the back surface cut 87c depending on the depth of the cut.

  Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15 and FIG. FIG. 13 (a) is a front view of a refrigerator showing a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 (b) is a refrigerator of FIG. 13 (a) with an optional communication unit and operation panel attached. Indicates the state. FIG. 14 is a plan view of FIG. 13A, and FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the main part taken along line MM of FIG. First, with reference to FIG. 13A, 101 is a refrigerator, and 110 is a door provided in front of the opening of the box 102 of the refrigerator 101. 116 is a terminal cover to be described later, and 120 is a board attachment member provided on the ceiling surface of the box 102. As shown in FIG. 14, the board mounting member 120 includes an operation control board 121 for controlling the operation of the refrigerator, and information on the operation control board 121 in a communication unit 130 (130 in FIG. 17) described later. Home communication circuit 122 configured to be able to communicate with each other, and a hinge 103 that pivotally supports the door 110. The operation control board 121 has an operation confirmation terminal 126, and by connecting a commercial test device to the operation confirmation terminal 126, a commercial confirmation test such as an accelerated operation test in a refrigerator production line, or It is configured so that failure diagnosis and confirmation can be performed when an accident occurs while using the refrigerator. 127 is a hole or opening provided in the board mounting member 120 so that a connection unit 150 (150 in FIG. 17) described later can be connected to the operation confirmation terminal 126, and 128 is the hole or opening. This is a terminal cover that closes the opening 127. A connector 123 connects the wiring cord 124 of the home communication circuit 122. The wiring cord 124 of the home communication circuit 122 is wired as described later on the back surface of the terminal cover 116 provided on the door 110 through the through hole 104 provided in the hinge 103 that pivotally supports the door 110. Yes.

  A method for wiring the door 110 of the wiring cord 124 of the in-home communication circuit 122 will be described with reference to FIG. The door 110 includes an outer plate 111, an inner plate 113, a frame body 117, and a heat insulating material 112 such as urethane that firmly bonds the outer plate 111, the inner plate 113, and the frame body 117 with their own adhesive force. And is constituted by. Reference numeral 115 denotes a recess formed in the door, and is set to a size that can accommodate the above-described wiring cord 124 and the connection terminal 125 formed at the tip of the wiring cord 124. 114 is a cover that covers the connection terminal 125, and the cover 114 is formed as a material for a so-called system kitchen in which the material and the surface pattern are matched to the kitchen in which the refrigerator is installed. The periphery of the frame body 117 is detachably inserted and fixed. 114a is a hole or opening provided in the cover 114 so that the connection tool 150 (150 in FIG. 17) described later can be connected to the connection terminal 125 from outside. A terminal cover 116 closes the hole or opening 114a, and is locked to the hole or opening 114a by the locking portions 116b and 116c. As shown in FIG. 15, the terminal cover 116 is normally locked in a hole or opening 114a. However, when connecting a connector 150 (150 in FIG. 17) to be described later, a tool such as a flat-blade screwdriver is inserted into the gap. If it is inserted into the portion 116d, it can be removed from the hole or opening 114a. In addition, since the connection terminal 125 is detachably held by the locking claw 116a provided on the back surface of the terminal cover 116, when the terminal cover 116 is removed from the door, the connection terminal 125 is simultaneously placed on the front surface of the door. The connection terminal 125 is exposed so as to facilitate connection work between a connection tool 150 (150 in FIG. 17) described later.

  In addition, on the front surface 116f of the terminal cover 116, an indication that “there is a connection terminal that can be connected to a home network” is displayed on the back surface of the terminal cover by a method that does not easily disappear. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a refrigerator in which the home network connection terminal position can be clearly seen by the user even after several years have passed since the purchase of the refrigerator. In addition, on the surface 116f of the terminal cover 116, an indication such as a model of the refrigerator, a serial number, or a method for connecting to the home network is entered, and the refrigerator has a connection terminal that can be connected to the home network. It is also a good way to show that

  Next, a communication control block diagram showing a fifth embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 17 will be described. The feature of the fifth embodiment is that the operation panel 140 provided with the liquid crystal display unit 142 can be connected by the same connector 150 as the communication unit 130 communicating with the home network. That is, the information to be sent to the home network can be operated with the operation unit 141 while confirming with the display unit 142. As a specific structural example of the operation panel 140 and the communication unit 130, for example, as shown in FIG. 13 (b), the terminal cover 116 is removed, and the position where the terminal cover was located is covered. A configuration in which a thin sheet-like liquid crystal display unit 142 is installed, a communication unit 130 having an antenna 131 is installed on the upper side, and an operation unit 141 and an alarm unit 143 are installed on the lower side of the liquid crystal display unit 142 is desirable.

  Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a door showing a sixth embodiment of the present invention, which corresponds to FIG. 15 described above. The feature of the sixth embodiment is that the cover covering the connection terminal 125 is not provided with a hole or an opening, and a notch that can be cut with a simple hand tool is formed at the periphery of the hole or opening. It is provided. That is, 163 in FIG. 16 is a cover that covers the connection terminal 125, and 163e is a hole or opening that has a necessary and sufficient size when connecting the connection tool 150 (150 in FIG. 17) from the outside to the connection terminal 125. Part. A front surface notch 163c and a back surface notch 163b are provided at the periphery of the hole or planned opening portion 163e. Further, a locking claw 163d for locking the connection terminal 125 is provided on the back surface of the hole or the planned opening portion 163e. In addition, the surface 163f of the cover 163 or the surface of the hole 163e or the surface 163g of the planned opening 163e is displayed in a manner that does not easily disappear, or “this refrigerator has a connection terminal that can be connected to a home network” , Fill in an indication such as “model, serial number or method of connecting to the home network” of the refrigerator, and so that the refrigerator has a connection terminal that can be connected to the home network. is there.

Installation explanatory drawing of the refrigerator and communication unit which show the 1st Example of this invention. The principal part enlarged view of FIG. The principal part enlarged view of the refrigerator which shows the 1st Example of this invention. Explanatory drawing of the communication unit which shows one Example of this invention. The block diagram of communication control which shows one Example of this invention. The connection terminal arrangement explanatory drawing which shows the 1st Example of this invention. The principal part sectional drawing of the refrigerator which shows the 2nd Example of this invention. Connection terminal arrangement explanatory drawing showing the 2nd example of the present invention. The longitudinal cross-sectional view of the refrigerator which shows the 3rd Example of this invention. The top view of FIG. AA sectional view taken on the line AA in FIG. FIG. 11 is a view corresponding to FIG. 11 showing a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The front view of the refrigerator which shows the 5th Example of this invention. FIG. 14 is a plan view of FIG. 13. MM line principal part sectional drawing of FIG. The cross-sectional view of the door which shows the 6th Example of this invention. The block diagram of communication control which shows the 5th Example of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 20 ... Communication unit, 24 ... Connection tool, 30 ... Refrigerator, 37 ... Cover, 37b ... Hole or opening, 39 ... Terminal cover, 50 ... Domestic communication circuit, 52 ... Connection terminal, 85 ... Hinge cover.

Claims (8)

  A home communication circuit is provided on the operation control board, a connection terminal of the home communication circuit is covered with a cover, a hole or an opening that can be connected to the connection terminal from the outside is provided in the cover, and the hole or opening is provided with a terminal cover. A refrigerator characterized by being closed.   A home communication circuit is provided on the operation control board, a connection terminal of the home communication circuit is covered with a cover, and a hole or an opening through which the connection tool can be connected to the connection terminal from the outside is provided close to the connection terminal. A refrigerator provided at a position.   An operation check terminal is provided on the operation control board, the operation check terminal is covered with a cover, and a hole or an opening that can be connected to the operation check terminal from the outside is provided in the cover, and the hole or opening is provided in the claim 1 or A refrigerator shared with the hole or opening according to claim 2.   In a refrigerator having a hinge cover that covers a hinge that pivotally supports a door, a connection terminal of a wiring cord wired from a home communication circuit is installed in the hinge cover, and a hole or a hole through which a connection tool can be connected to the connection terminal from outside An opening is provided in the hinge cover, and the hole or opening is closed with a terminal cover.   In a refrigerator having a hinge cover that covers a hinge that pivotally supports a door, a connection terminal of a wiring cord wired from a home communication circuit is installed in the hinge cover, and the hinge on a surface other than the upper surface of the connection terminal corresponding position A refrigerator provided with a notch capable of forming a hole or an opening through which a connection tool can be externally connected to the connection terminal.   In the refrigerator having a door at the front of the box opening, the box is provided with an operation control board and a home communication circuit, a connection terminal of a wiring cord wired from the home communication circuit is installed on the door, and the door is installed on the door A refrigerator characterized in that a connection terminal is covered with a cover, and a hole or opening for connecting a connection tool from the outside to the connection terminal is provided in the cover, and the hole or opening is closed with a terminal cover.   In the refrigerator having a door at the front of the box opening, the box is provided with an operation control board and a home communication circuit, a connection terminal of a wiring cord wired from the home communication circuit is installed on the door, and the door is installed on the door A refrigerator characterized in that the connection terminal is covered with a cover, and the cover is provided with a notch capable of forming a hole or an opening through which the connection tool can be connected from the outside. The refrigerator according to claim 6 or 7, wherein a network-compatible refrigerator display section is provided on a cover surface covering the connection terminal or on the surface of the terminal cover.

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