KR102273104B1 - Manufacture method for outplate for home appliance - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances, wherein light irradiated from an LED is transmitted to form a plurality of through holes indicating operation information of the home appliance, and an exterior member for home appliances forming the exterior of the home appliance In the manufacturing method, the front coating layer forming the exterior of the home appliance is formed on the front side, the step of inputting a metal plate having a rear coating layer formed on the rear surface; irradiating a laser to the front coating layer and the back coating layer to form a hole in which a portion corresponding to the through hole is removed in the front coating layer and the back coating layer except for the metal plate; introducing an etching solution through the perforations formed in the front coating layer and the rear coating layer to form the through-holes communicating with the perforations in the metal plate; shielding the perforation of the front coating layer by attaching a protective film to the front surface of the front coating layer in a state in which the through hole is formed; It characterized in that it comprises a hole-filling step of filling both the perforations of the front coating layer, the through-holes and the perforations of the rear coating layer with a hole-filling member capable of transmitting light through the perforations of the rear coating layer.

Description

Manufacturing method of exterior member for home appliance { Manufacture method for outplate for home appliance }

The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances.

2. Description of the Related Art In general, home appliances include a display assembly for displaying the operating state of the home appliance. The display assembly may display various information according to the operation of the home appliance in the form of numbers, letters, symbols, or pictures.

Accordingly, the user can determine the operating state of the home appliance by checking the information output through the display assembly, and perform a manipulation for the operation of the home appliance.

In recent home appliances, an exterior member made of a metal plate is formed to give a more luxurious appearance, or an exterior member made of a material coated to give the exterior a steel-like texture is used. Make it possible to display the operation of home appliances.

In Korean Patent Laid-Open No. 10-2014-0121753, a display unit is provided on the rear surface of a metal front plate of a refrigerator door, and the display unit of the display unit is visible to the user through a plurality of through holes formed in the front plate. A refrigerator having a structure is disclosed. In addition, the through hole is formed through etching or laser drilling to be formed in a fine size.

However, in the case of etching, it is necessary to protect the front plate except for the portion in which the through hole is formed in the front plate during the etching process. Accordingly, there is a problem in that a complicated and many additional processes are required for the etching process, and the manufacturing cost is increased.

In addition, in the case of laser drilling, thermal deformation may occur around the through hole, and there is a problem that the surface of the front plate may be damaged by thermal deformation.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances, which enables a plurality of through holes to be easily formed in an exterior member for home appliances made of a metal material on which a coating layer forming an exterior is formed.

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances that can form fine through-holes in a uniform size in an exterior member for home appliances made of a metal material on which a coating layer forming an exterior is formed .

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances capable of forming fine through-holes in an exterior member for home appliances made of a metal material on which a coating layer for forming an exterior is formed through laser processing and etching processing do it with

In the method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances according to an embodiment of the present invention, light irradiated from an LED is transmitted to form a plurality of through holes indicating operation information of the home appliance, and for home appliances forming the exterior of the home appliance A method of manufacturing an exterior member, the method comprising: a metal plate having a front coating layer formed on the front surface of the home appliance, and a rear coating layer formed on the rear surface; irradiating a laser to the front coating layer and the back coating layer to form a hole in which a portion corresponding to the through hole is removed in the front coating layer and the back coating layer except for the metal plate; introducing an etching solution through the perforations formed in the front coating layer and the rear coating layer to form the through-holes communicating with the perforations in the metal plate; shielding the perforation of the front coating layer by attaching a protective film to the front surface of the front coating layer in a state in which the through hole is formed; The method may include a hole-filling step of filling both the perforations of the front coating layer, the through-holes and the perforations of the rear coating layer with a hole-filling member capable of transmitting light through the perforations of the rear coating layer.

The front coating layer may be formed by a color coating having a colored color to form the color of the exterior member.

The front coating layer may be formed of an acrylic resin or a polyester resin, the rear coating layer may be formed of an epoxy resin, and the front coating layer and the rear coating layer may not react with the etching solution.

The metal plate may be formed of a stainless material, and the etchant may be ferric chloride (FeC12) that corrodes the metal plate without corroding the front coating layer and the rear coating layer.

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The inner diameter of the perforations of the front coating layer may be formed smaller than the inner diameter of the perforations of the rear coating layer.

An inner diameter of the front surface of the through hole may be smaller than an inner diameter of the rear surface of the through hole.

The metal plate is fixedly mounted to the metal plate fixing member so that the machining position of the perforations can be aligned, and in the state where the metal plate is fixed, the perforations of the front coating layer and the perforations of the rear coating layer are laser-processed so that the center is located on the same extension line. can

The metal plate fixing member is disposed so as to be in contact with both surfaces of the metal plate, and includes a first fixing jig and a second fixing jig having an opening, and a guide jig for fixing the first fixing jig and the second fixing jig, , The metal plate may be perforated through the opening in a state disposed between the fixed first fixing jig and the second fixing jig.

The first fixing jig and the second fixing jig are formed to extend further than the outer ends of the metal plate, and the guide jig passes through a pin fixing hole formed on the outside of the first fixing jig and the second fixing jig to fix the first fixing jig. A guide pin for fixing the jig and the second fixing jig may be formed.

The through hole is formed by a front groove formed by etching on the front surface of the metal plate through the perforation of the front coating layer, and a rear groove formed by etching on the rear surface of the metal plate through the perforation of the rear coating layer. The front groove and the rear groove may be formed by etching until they are in contact with each other.

A diameter of the front groove may be smaller than a diameter of the rear groove.

A diameter of a portion where the front groove and the rear groove are in contact with each other may be formed to be smaller than a diameter of the front groove.

The rear groove may be etched for a longer period of time than the front groove.

The front groove is formed by etching to have a set diameter, and the rear groove may be etched until it communicates with the front groove.

The depth of the rear groove may be greater than that of the front groove.

The hole filling member may be formed to form a layer of a predetermined thickness in a partial region of the metal plate including the through hole, and may be formed to completely fill the plurality of through holes at once.

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The laser irradiated to form the perforations in the front coating layer and the back coating layer is irradiated with an output of 10 to 20w to prevent damage to the metal plate.

The protective film may be removably attached.

According to the method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances according to an embodiment of the present invention, the following effects can be expected.

A perforation is formed at a position corresponding to a through hole in a metal plate having a coating layer formed on both surfaces, the coating layer is formed of a material that does not react with an etching solution, and the through hole is formed by etching processing through the perforation of the coating layer. Therefore, since there is no need for a separate surface treatment for protecting the metal plate before etching and a process for removing the surface treatment after etching, the process is simplified and the manufacturing cost is reduced.

And, by forming the perforation of the coating layer by laser processing, it is possible to easily remove the coating layer of the intended position and size by controlling the output of the laser.

In addition, the through hole is formed by etching the front groove and the rear groove, and in particular, since the front groove forms an exposed diameter of the through hole, the size of the front groove is constant and the rear surface according to the thickness of the metal plate. By varying the size of the groove, it is possible to form a through hole having a uniform size even if the thickness of the metal plate is different.

In addition, the rear groove is formed to have a narrower diameter in the direction of the depression, so that the light irradiated from the LED can be collected and irradiated to the outside through the through hole. Therefore, when viewed from the outside, the light transmitted through the through hole may be strengthened, and the effect of improving the visibility of the display unit may be expected.

And, the perforation of the coating layer is laser-processed while the metal plate is fixed to the metal plate fixing jig. Therefore, shaking during laser processing is prevented and the processing position is aligned, so that the coating layer of the correct size can be removed at the intended precise position.

In addition, the front coating layer is provided as a color coating having a colored color, and since the coating layer at a position corresponding to the through hole is removed, various colors can be applied to produce various aesthetic appearances, and the light irradiated from the LED can be applied to the coating layer. Since it is not blocked by the , visibility of the display unit can also be secured.

In addition, by filling the through hole with the hole filling member, it is possible to prevent the through hole from being blocked or the interior members from being contaminated due to inflow of foreign matter through the through hole.

And, in a metal plate having a coating layer formed on both sides, since the through hole is processed by a laser irradiated to the rear surface of the metal plate, damage to the front coating layer exposed to the outside is minimized, and manufacturing cost is reduced and manufacturing time is reduced by processing by laser. A shortening effect can be expected.

And, since the through hole formed by the laser is formed such that the inner diameter decreases from the rear to the front, the light emitted from the LED can be collected and irradiated to the outside. Therefore, when viewed from the outside, the light transmitted through the through hole may be strengthened, and the effect of improving the visibility of the display unit may be expected.

In addition, since the output of the laser forming the through hole is irradiated with 10 to 20w, damage to the coating layer is minimized and the quality of the appearance can be satisfied.

And, during laser processing, a protective vinyl made of PET is adhered to the front coating layer with a silicone adhesive and provided. Accordingly, damage to the front coating layer is prevented, and the effect of minimizing material transfer of the silicone component having excellent heat resistance can be expected.

1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a perspective view of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention.
3 is a rear view of the refrigerator door.
4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a mounting structure of the display assembly of the refrigerator door.
5 is an exploded perspective view in which the front panel of the refrigerator door is separated.
6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a coupling structure of a touch sensor assembly, a display cover, a display assembly, a frame display, and a frame according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a cross-sectional view 7-7' of FIG. 2 .
FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 7 .
9 is a view showing a lighting state of a display unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
10 is a cross-sectional view 10-10′ of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
11 is a flowchart sequentially illustrating a method of forming a first through hole by etching on a metal plate having a coating layer formed on both surfaces according to an embodiment of the present invention.
12 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating a forming process of a first through hole according to the procedure of FIG. 11 .
13 is a view illustrating a metal plate fixing member for fixing a metal plate in the coating layer removal process of FIG. 11 .
14 is a flowchart sequentially illustrating a method of forming a first through hole using a laser on a metal plate having a coating layer formed on both surfaces according to another embodiment of the present invention.
15 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating a forming process of a first through hole according to the procedure of FIG. 14 .
16 is an exploded perspective view of an air conditioner provided with an exterior member on which a display unit is formed according to an embodiment of the present invention.
17 is an exploded perspective view of a washing machine provided with an exterior member on which a display unit is formed according to an embodiment of the present invention.
18 is an exploded perspective view of a dishwasher provided with an exterior member on which a display unit is formed according to an embodiment of the present invention.
19 is an exploded perspective view of a cooking appliance provided with an exterior member having a display unit formed therein according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with drawings. However, the present invention cannot be said to be limited to the embodiments in which the spirit of the present invention is presented, and other inventions that are degenerative by addition, change, deletion, etc. of other elements or other embodiments included within the scope of the present invention are easy. can suggest

In particular, the embodiment of the present invention will be described as an example in which the display assembly is mounted on the door of the refrigerator for convenience of explanation and understanding, and the present invention provides a method in which a plurality of fine through-holes are formed in an exterior member and light passes through. It should be noted in advance that it can be applied to home appliances including all types of refrigerators that can display the operating state by a combination of through holes.

1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawings, the refrigerator 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention may have an external shape formed by a cabinet forming a storage space and a refrigerator door 10 mounted on the cabinet to open and close the storage space.

The storage space may be divided into left and right sides and/or up and down, and a plurality of refrigerator doors 10 for opening and closing each space may be provided on the opened front surface of the storage space. The refrigerator door 10 is configured to open and close the storage space in a sliding or rotating manner, and is configured to form a front exterior of the refrigerator 1 in a closed state.

In addition, a display unit 11 and a touch manipulation unit 12 are provided at a height at which a user can easily manipulate and identify the refrigerator door 10 on one side of the plurality of refrigerator doors 10 .

The display unit 11 is for externally indicating the operating state of the refrigerator 1, and is configured so that light irradiated from the inside of the refrigerator door 10 is transmitted and displayed as symbols or numbers, etc. Through this, operation information of the refrigerator can be checked.

The touch manipulation unit 12 is a part that the user touch-manipulates for the operation of the refrigerator 1, and is provided on a partial area of the front surface of the refrigerator door 10, and the part where the press operation can be sensed is printed or etched. It can be marked by the same method, such as surface processing.

Of course, the touch manipulation unit 12 may be provided in a refrigerator door 10 other than the refrigerator door 10 provided with the display unit 11 among the plurality of refrigerator doors 10 , and the refrigerator door 10 ), but may be provided on one side of the cabinet. In addition, if necessary, the touch manipulation unit 12 may be provided with a switch or button manipulation unit instead of a touch type.

2 is a perspective view of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawing, the refrigerator door 10 has a front exterior formed by the front panel 20 as a whole. In an embodiment of the present invention, the front panel 20 is the same concept as the exterior member, and for convenience of description, it is only referred to as the front panel 20 and may be the same as the exterior member of other embodiments.

The refrigerator door 10 includes the front panel 20 forming the front exterior, the door liner 30 forming the rear exterior, and decorative members 40 provided at the top and bottom of the refrigerator door 10 . , 43) can form the overall appearance.

Looking at this in more detail, the front panel 20 forms the front exterior of the refrigerator door 10 and may be formed of a plate-shaped stainless steel material. In addition, the front panel 20 may further include the entire front surface of the refrigerator door 10 as well as a part of a side surface of the refrigerator door 10 . In addition, the surface of the front panel 20 may be subjected to anti-fingerprint treatment or a specific pattern or pattern may be expressed, and a hairline may be formed to have a metal texture.

Meanwhile, the display unit 11 may be defined by a plurality of first through holes 21 formed in a partial area of the front panel 20 . The display unit 11 may be composed of a set of a plurality of first through holes 21 perforated in a predetermined arrangement to display numbers or symbols. For example, a set of a plurality of the first through holes 21 may be arranged in the shape of 7 segments, and may be arranged to indicate the shape or letter of a specific symbol or pattern that may indicate the state of the refrigerator 1 . .

The display unit 11 is formed to correspond to the arrangement of a plurality of second through-holes 220 and third through-holes 321 to be described below, so that light emitted from the LED 313 of the display assembly 300 is transmitted. configured to be

That is, light may be irradiated through at least some of the first through-holes 21 formed at a position corresponding to the position of the LED 313 to which light is irradiated among the first through-holes 21, The first through-holes 21 to which light is irradiated represent specific numbers or character shapes to transmit information to the user.

The first through hole 21 may be formed by etching in the shape of a fine hole communicating with each other on the front and rear surfaces of the front panel 20 . The shape and forming process of the first through hole 21 will be described in more detail below.

3 is a rear view of the refrigerator door.

As shown in the drawings, the front panel is formed in a plate shape, and may be bent to form at least a portion of a side surface of the refrigerator door. And, since the front panel 20 forms the exterior of the refrigerator door 10, it may be formed to have a thickness that can ensure sufficient strength.

In addition, a plurality of first through holes 21 may be formed in the area of the display unit 11 of the front panel 20 . The first through hole 21 may be formed through the front panel 20 . The first through hole 21 may be formed to have a fine size of 0.2 to 0.3 mm when viewed from the front.

When the LED 313 of the display assembly 300 is not turned on and the refrigerator door 10 is viewed from a position away from the refrigerator 1, the size of the first through hole 21 is small. so that it is not clearly visible. Accordingly, the refrigerator door 10 may appear as if the display unit 11 is not formed on the front side, and the user may see that the entire front surface of the refrigerator door 10 is made of a smooth stainless plate without any other configuration. It can be recognized that there is

In addition, the plurality of first through holes 21 may be disposed to transmit information in the form of specific characters or symbols when the LED 313 is turned on to form the display unit 11 .

The first through hole 21 may be formed by etching the front panel 20 from both front and rear surfaces. That is, the first through hole 21 is formed in the shape of a hole of a fine size and is etched into a groove shape on both sides of the front panel 20 in order to secure the thickness of the front panel 20 having sufficient strength at the same time. It can be molded by

Meanwhile, the first through hole 21 may be formed by laser drilling. In addition, laser drilling may be performed on the rear surface of the front panel 20 to prevent damage to the front surface of the front panel 20 exposed to the outside.

4 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a mounting structure of the display assembly of the refrigerator door. 5 is an exploded perspective view in which the front panel of the refrigerator door is separated.

As shown in the drawing, the door liner 30 forming the rear surface of the refrigerator door 10 is coupled to the front panel 20 and forms a surface facing the inside of the storage space. The door liner 30 may be injection-molded from a plastic material, and may provide a structure in which a gasket may be disposed along the periphery, a basket, or the like may be mounted. In addition, when the door liner 30 is coupled to the front panel 20 , a space is formed between the door liner 30 and the front panel 20 , and the foam forming the heat insulating material 24 is formed in this space. Liquid may be filled.

A frame 100 may be attached to the rear surface of the front panel 20 . The frame 100 is formed to provide a separate space in which the foaming liquid is not filled inside the refrigerator door 10 , and includes a display cover 200 , a display assembly 300 , and a touch sensor assembly 500 . ), a space in which the frame display 400 is accommodated is provided.

The decoration members 40 and 43 form the exterior of the upper and lower portions of the refrigerator door 10, and the opened refrigerator door (30) formed by the coupling of the front panel (20) and the door liner (30). 10) is configured to shield the upper and lower ends.

An insertion hole 41 and an insertion hole cover 42 for opening and closing the insertion hole 41 are provided in the decoration member 40 above the refrigerator door 10 among the decoration members 40 and 43 . The insertion hole 41 passes through the decor member 40 and communicates with the space formed by the frame 100 . In addition, when the refrigerator door 10 is assembled, the display assembly 300 can be inserted into the frame 100 through the insertion hole 41 while the display assembly 300 is coupled to the frame display 400 . To this end, the insertion hole 41 is formed in a size in which the frame display 400 can be inserted, and may be positioned vertically above the display cover 200 .

Meanwhile, although not shown in detail, a hinge hole (not shown) in which a hinge serving as a rotation axis of the refrigerator door 10 is mounted is formed on one side of the decor member 40 . Then, a wire guided to the inside of the frame 100 through the hinge hole enters and exits to supply power to the front components inside the frame 10 and to transmit and receive operation signals.

A door handle 44 may be provided on the decorative member 43 under the refrigerator door 10 . The door handle 44 is recessed in the shape of a pocket so that the refrigerator door 10 can be rotated. In addition, a lever 45 for opening and closing the refrigerator door 10 is further provided on the decor member 43 under the refrigerator door 10 , and the latch assembly 31 is opened by the operation of the lever 45 . It is driven so that it is possible to select whether the refrigerator door 10 is opened or closed.

A display cover 200 is attached to the rear surface of the front panel 20 . The display cover 200 is for guiding the mounting of the display assembly 300 on which the LED 313 is mounted. It is configured to be attached to the back.

A touch sensor assembly 500 capable of detecting a user's pressing operation of the front panel 20 is mounted on one side of the display cover 200 . The display cover 200 has a structure capable of being attached to the front panel 20 while being coupled to the touch sensor assembly 500 .

In addition, the display assembly 300 is inserted into the space inside the frame 100 through the insertion hole 41 while being mounted on the frame display 400 . When the frame display 400 is completely inserted, the display assembly 300 is positioned inside the display cover 200 , and the light irradiated from the LED 313 is applied to the display cover 200 and the display unit 11 . ) and can be investigated externally.

6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a coupling structure of a touch sensor assembly, a display cover, a display assembly, a frame display, and a frame according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawing, the frame 100 is formed so that the front and upper surfaces are opened, and when attached to the front panel 20, the frame 100 is formed to form a space 110 with an open upper surface. To this end, the periphery except for the upper end of the frame 100 is bent toward the front panel 20 , and the end thereof is again bent outward to form the frame bonding part 120 . A double-sided tape or adhesive is provided on the frame adhesive part 120 so that the frame 100 can be attached to the rear surface of the front panel 20 .

The frame 100 is attached to the front panel 20, the upper end is in contact with the lower surface of the decoration member (40). In addition, the opened upper surface of the frame 100 may communicate with the insertion hole 41 , thereby forming an independent space inside the refrigerator door 10 .

Therefore, even when the foaming liquid for forming the heat insulating material 24 is injected into the refrigerator door 10 , the foaming liquid is not introduced into the space inside the frame 100 and can be protected.

In addition, a plate support portion 140 on which the support plate 141 is seated is formed on both upper left and right ends of the frame 100 . The support plate 141 is installed in the region of the upper space of the frame 100 above the display cover 200 in a state in which the display cover 200 is mounted, and the front panel 20 is moved from the rear side. configured to support. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the corresponding portion of the front panel 20 from being shaken, as well as to prevent the front panel 20 from being deformed by an external impact.

A wire entrance 150 is formed on the upper side of the frame 100 . The wire entry/exit 150 forms a passage through which electric wires provided in the frame 100 and the power supply unit on the cabinet are connected to each other. The wire entrance 150 may be formed at an upper portion of a side close to the hinge of the refrigerator door 10 and disposed at a distance close to the hinge hole of the refrigerator door 10 . In addition, when the foaming liquid is injected into the refrigerator door 10 , it is finished to prevent the foaming liquid from flowing into the frame 100 .

In addition, restraint grooves 160 are formed on both left and right sides of the frame 100 . The restraining groove 160 is formed so that the restraining portions 230 protruding laterally from both left and right ends of the display cover 200 are inserted.

A cover support portion 170 supporting the display cover 200 is formed in a portion where the display cover 200 is located under the restraining groove 160 . The cover support unit 170 protrudes from both left and right sides of the frame 100 , and presses the left and right side ends of the display cover 200 from the rear to support it.

The display cover 200 is formed of a plate-shaped plastic material, and is formed to be accommodated inside the frame 100 while being attached to the front panel 20 . In addition, restraint portions 230 protruding outwardly and inserted into the restraint groove 160 are formed on the upper portions of the left and right ends of the display cover 200 .

On the other hand, the display cover 200 is formed with a receiving portion 210 to which the touch sensor assembly 500 is mounted. In addition, a plurality of second through-holes 220 are formed in the display cover 200 at positions corresponding to the display unit 11 .

The second through hole 220 is formed at a position corresponding to the first through hole 21 when the display cover 200 is attached to the rear surface of the front panel. The second through-hole 220 may be formed to open in a shape corresponding to the 7-segment, or may be formed in various hole shapes for displaying other information.

A blocking portion 221 is formed around the second through hole 220 . The blocking part 221 is formed to surround the second through-hole 220 from the outside of the second through-hole 220 and is formed to protrude forward.

In addition, the adhesive member 25 for bonding the display cover 200 is attached only to the outer region of the blocking part 221 . Therefore, when the display cover 200 is attached, the gap between the first through hole 21 and the second through hole 220 generated by the thickness of the adhesive member 25 can be minimized, and this space can be reduced. This will prevent light leakage. The protrusion height of the blocking part 221 is formed to a height that can block light leakage, and considering that the adhesive member 25 attached to the front surface of the display cover 200 is compressed, before the adhesive member 25 is compressed. It may be formed lower than the height.

The display assembly 300 may include a display PCB 310 on which the LED 313 is mounted and a reflector 320 disposed in front of the display PCB 310 .

The display PCB 310 includes a control unit for driving the LED 313 , and a sensor control unit for driving the touch sensor assembly 500 is mounted. That is, the sensor controller processes the manipulation signal of the front panel 20 sensed through the touch sensor assembly 500 on the display PCB 310 . To this end, the sensor PCB (not shown) inside the touch sensor assembly 500 and the display PCB 310 may be connected to each other through the cable connector 600 .

The cable connector 600 includes a first cable connector 610 connected to the sensor PCB inside the touch sensor assembly 500 and a second cable connector 620 connected to the display PCB 310, The first cable connector 610 and the second cable connector 620 have a structure connectable to each other. In the process of mounting the display assembly 300 to the refrigerator door 10 , the first cable connector 610 and the second cable connector 620 may be connected to each other from the outside of the refrigerator door 10 . is composed

That is, the total length of the cable connector 600 is formed to be longer than the distance from the touch sensor assembly 500 to the insertion hole 41 so that the touch sensor assembly 500 is mounted on the display cover 200 . It is formed so that the display assembly 300 can be mounted after being connected to each other from the outside of the insertion hole 41 in this state.

In addition, a reflector 320 for guiding the light of the LED 313 toward the first through hole 21 is provided on the front surface of the display PCB 310 . The reflector 320 not only guides the light of the LED 313 , but also the display PCB 310 and the display terminal 311 may be spaced apart from the front panel 20 by the thickness of the reflector 320 . to protect the display PCB 310 from static electricity.

In particular, the front panel 20 may be vulnerable to static electricity generated during use due to the nature of the structure in which the display assembly 300 is to be disposed adjacent to the display unit 11 as well as the front panel 20 is made of a stainless steel material, but the reflector By 320 , the display PCB 310 is structurally spaced apart from the front panel 20 while providing excellent light transmission, thereby protecting the display PCB 310 from static electricity.

The reflector 320 has a third through hole that corresponds to the arrangement of the LED 313 mounted on the display PCB 310 , and can communicate with the second through hole 220 and the first through hole 21 . (321) is formed. In a state in which the display assembly 300 is mounted, the frame display 400 is mounted on the display cover 200 , and the first through hole 21 , the second through hole 220 , and the third through hole ( All 321 have a structure in close contact with each other, and the light irradiated from the LED 313 may be irradiated to the outside through the display unit 11 .

Meanwhile, the frame display 400 has the display PCB 310 mounted thereon, and is formed in a plate shape on which the display PCB 310 can be seated. In addition, an edge 410 bent forward along the periphery of the frame display 400 is formed to form a space in which the display PCB 310 is accommodated. In addition, sliding inserts 415 bent to the left and right sides are formed at both left and right ends of the frame display 400 . The sliding insertion part 415 is formed to be inserted into the guide rail 240 formed on the display cover 200 . Accordingly, the frame display 400 can be mounted on the display cover 200 by the sliding insertion part 415 .

In addition, a frame handle 420 extending upwardly is provided at the center of the upper end of the frame display 400 . The frame handle 420 is formed to have a predetermined length as the user grips and manipulates the frame display 400 when the frame display 400 is coupled to the display cover 200 .

When the insertion hole cover 42 is closed while the frame display 400 is fully inserted, the insertion hole cover 42 comes into contact with the frame handle 420 .

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view 7-7′ of FIG. 2 . And, FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 7 .

Referring to these drawings, when the display cover 200 is attached to the rear surface of the front panel 20 by the adhesive member 25 , the first through hole 21 and the second through hole 220 are have a structure that communicates with each other. At this time, the size of the first through-hole 21 is formed very small to be much smaller than the size of the second through-hole 220 , and a plurality of the first through-holes 21 are formed with the one second through-hole. It may be disposed in the inner region of the sphere 220 .

Further, in a state in which the frame display 400 is completely inserted and the display assembly 300 is positioned inside the display cover 200 , the third through hole 321 is connected to the second through hole 220 . ) and are congruently connected to each other. The second through-hole 220 and the third through-hole 321 have the same size, and the reflector 320 is in close contact with the rear surface of the display cover 200 so that the second through-hole 220 and the third through-hole 321 are in close contact with each other. The three through holes 321 may completely overlap each other.

Accordingly, the third through-hole 321, the second through-hole 220, and the first through-hole 21 may all communicate, and the light irradiated from the LED 313 is transmitted through the third through-hole 321. ), the second through-hole 220 and the first through-hole 21 pass in sequence to be irradiated to the outside of the refrigerator door 10 .

A diffusion sheet 25 may be attached to the rear surface of the front panel 20 in which the first through hole 21 is formed. The diffusion sheet 25 diffuses the light irradiated from the LED 313 so that the light passing through the first through hole 21 is evenly distributed, and the light irradiated through the display unit 11 is evenly bright. so that letters or numbers expressed through the display unit 11 can be clearly identified.

9 is a view showing a lighting state of a display unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawings, the display unit 11 may be formed by a plurality of first through holes 21 and may be expressed in the form of 7 segments and symbols. The display unit 11 has a shape of a fine hole that is difficult to identify from the outside when the LED 313 of the display assembly 300 is not turned on, and at a position a little further away, the display unit passes through the front surface of the refrigerator door 10 . It can be seen in the form of an iron plate not equipped with.

In such a state, when the user touches the touch manipulation unit 12 or the LED 313 is turned on by an internal setting, the light irradiated from the LED 313 passes through the third through hole 321 and the second through hole. It is irradiated to the outside by passing through the sphere 220 and the first through hole 21 in sequence.

At this time, light is emitted from some of the first through holes 21 among the plurality of first through holes 21 according to the lighting state of the LED 313 , and the remaining first through holes 21 emit light. is not emitted and is not visible to the user. As such, the first through-holes 21 through which the light of the LED 313 passes and emits light may be combined with each other to form a specific number, letter, or symbol.

For example, as shown in FIG. 9, light is emitted from some of the first through-holes 21 among the plurality of first through-holes 21 to transmit information such as 4°C and -12°C as shown. It can be expressed in the form of numbers. That is, information is transmitted through the front surface of the refrigerator door 10 in various forms by the combination of the first through holes 21 that are turned on in a state where a separate display is not visualized on the front surface of the refrigerator door 10 . can be displayed.

Meanwhile, a method of manufacturing an exterior member according to an embodiment of the present invention having the above structure will be described.

10 is a cross-sectional view 10-10′ of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Looking at this in more detail with reference to FIG. 10 , the first through hole 21 may be composed of a front groove 21a etched from the front surface and a rear groove 21b etched from the rear surface, and the front groove 21a ) and the rear groove 21b contact each other and communicate with each other to form the first through hole 21 . That is, the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b may be matched one-to-one, respectively, and communicate with each other in a hole-to-hole manner to form the first through hole 21 . do.

The diameter of the first through hole 21 exposed to the front of the refrigerator door 10 by the front groove 21a can be finely formed to be 0.15 to 0.3 mm. Also, since the rear groove 21b is not exposed to the outside, it may be formed in a size of 0.8-1.5 mm having a larger diameter than the front groove 21a. Therefore, even if the thickness of the front panel 20 is rather thick, the rear groove 21b can be formed deeper, and the front panel 20 can be in contact with the end of the front groove 21a and communicate with each other. thickness can be obtained.

That is, as shown in the drawings, looking at the cross-sectional structure of the first through hole 21, the opening diameter D1 of the front groove 21a exposed to the outside may be formed to a set size, and the rear groove 21b is formed to have a size and depth in contact with the front groove 21a. Therefore, in order to penetrate the metal plate 20', which is the material of the front panel 20, the opening diameter D3 of the rear groove is formed to be much larger than the size of the opening diameter D1 of the front groove 21a. can In addition, a diameter D2 of a portion where the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b are in contact with each other by etching may be formed to be smaller than a diameter of the opening D1 of the front groove 21a.

In addition, due to the difference in diameter between the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b, the depth of the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b is also different. The depth H1 of the front groove 21a is significantly shallower than the depth H2 of the rear groove 21b, and the depth of the front groove 21a by the diameter D1 of the front groove 21a ( H1) is determined, and accordingly, the rear groove 21b is machined to a depth H2 in contact with the front groove 21a. At this time, the diameter D2 of the rear groove 21b can be defined.

As described above, the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b may have a predetermined curvature as their inner diameters become narrower in the recessed direction. Accordingly, a large amount of light irradiated by the LED 313 from the rear of the rear groove 21b is incident on the inside of the wide rear groove 21b, and has a round shape on the inner surface of the rear groove 21b. You will be able to focus as you go through the area. Accordingly, the light passing through the first through hole 21 can be concentrated, so that the light passing through the first through hole 21 can be seen brighter when viewed from the outside, and the visibility of the display unit 11 is increased. can be increased

Of course, the portions in which the front grooves 21a and the rear grooves 21b are in contact with each other may be in communication with each other while maintaining a constant diameter without being formed to be inclined or formed to be inclined or rounded.

Meanwhile, a hole filling member 22 is formed in the first through hole. The hole filling member 22 may be formed on a portion of the rear surface of the front panel 20 where the display unit 11 is formed by a printing method.

The hole filling member 22 may be formed by a screen printing method, and a printed layer having a predetermined thickness may be formed in a portion of the metal plate 20 ′ that completely fills the first through hole and corresponds to the display portion. When the thickness of the hole filling member 22 is too thin, the diffusivity of transmitted light decreases, and when the thickness of the front panel 20 is too thick, bending by the hole filling member 22 during sheet metal forming of the front panel 20 is caused by the front panel 20 ) is exposed in the front.

In order to form the hole filling member 22, a thermal drying type printing ink, that is, an acrylic resin ink may be used. The printing ink may have a viscosity of 20,000 cps to 40,000 cps. At this time, when the viscosity of the printing ink is lower than 20,000 cps, there is a problem that the ink may leak even after drying the ink. Defects may occur because it is not completely filled.

Therefore, in order to effectively fill the fine-sized first through-holes 21 with the printing ink, it has an appropriate viscosity. In addition, the printing ink may have excellent dynamic viscosity due to the characteristics of the printing ink component.

Looking in detail at the main components of the resin ink for the arc forming the hole filling member 22, when the weight of the total coating solution is 100%, 33w% of silicone acrylic polyol and 34w% of acrylic polyol, which are the main resins, are mixed and used. do. By mixing the main resin as described above, it is possible to implement a screen printing method, and physical properties such as transparency and thermal stability are satisfied.

And, about 15w% of epoxy and melamine resin, which are thermal curing agents, are mixed, 8w% of solvent, 2w%~3w% of fumed silica as a thickener for controlling dynamic viscosity, 1w% of curing agent, and the remaining amount is antifoaming agent and It may consist of a leveling agent and an adhesion promoter.

On the other hand, the component ratio of some of the components constituting the hole filling member 22 may be changed according to circumstances, but the fumed silica may be determined between 2 to 3w% to maintain a set viscosity.

By controlling the dynamic viscosity by the fumed silica, the acrylic resin ink more effectively fills the first through hole 21 during screen printing, so that the hole filling member 22 can be formed. That is, the acrylic resin ink can easily flow into the first through hole 21 while the viscosity is lowered by the external force applied during screen printing, and when the external force is removed, the viscosity of the first through hole decreases. (21) is maintained on the inside of the attached state. It is dried in such a state to form the hole filling member 22 , and it is possible to effectively fill the inside of the first through hole 21 .

As such, the inside of the first through hole 21 may be filled by the hole filling member 22 , and the hole filling member 22 prevents the first through hole 21 from being blocked by foreign substances. . In addition, since the inner side of the first through hole 21 is filled by the hole filling member 22 , it is possible to prevent corrosion of the processed surface of the first through hole 21 .

11 is a flowchart sequentially illustrating a method of forming a first through hole by etching on a metal plate having a coating layer formed on both sides according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the first through hole according to the procedure of FIG. It is a schematic diagram schematically showing the molding process.

11 and 12, referring to the forming process of the first through hole in turn, in order to form the exterior member, that is, the front panel 20 according to the embodiment of the present invention, first, the material of the front panel 20 is The metal plate 20' is cut to an appropriate length and put into stock.

The metal plate 20' may be a stainless steel plate, and coating layers 26 and 27 may be formed on the front and rear surfaces, respectively, and may be stocked. The coating layers 26 and 27 are formed of a component that does not react with the etchant to protect the metal plate 20' from being corroded from the etchant during etching for forming the first through hole, which will be described later.

The front surface of the metal plate 20' corresponds to the front surface of the front panel 20 exposed to the outside, and the front coating layer 26 is an anti-fingerprint coating or external coating to prevent fingerprints or stains from occurring on the surface of the refrigerator. It may be a color coating to improve aesthetics. Of course, the anti-fingerprint coating and the color coating may be laminated and formed or may be an anti-fingerprint coating having a colored color. In addition, the front coating layer 26 may be formed of an acrylic resin or a polyester resin so as not to react with the etching solution.

On the other hand, the rear surface of the metal plate 20 ′ corresponds to the rear surface of the front panel 20 that is not exposed to the outside, and is accommodated between the front panel 20 and the decoration members 40 and 43 . It may be exposed to electric components and pipes through which water flows. Accordingly, the back coating layer 27 is formed of an epoxy resin, does not react with the etching solution, and may have high resistance to water, heat, and the like.

As the thickness of the coating layers 26 and 27 increases, the adhesion decreases and may interfere with the assembly of the front panel 20 and the decoration members 40 and 43 to cause problems in assembling. On the other hand, as the thickness decreases, the effect of protecting the metal plate 20' from the etching solution decreases. Accordingly, the coating layers 26 and 27 are formed as thin as possible, but may be formed to a thickness of 5 μm or more to effectively prevent corrosion of the metal plate 20 ′ from the etching solution during etching, and to be formed from 5 μm or more to 10 μm or less. can Of course, since the back coating layer 27 is not exposed to the outside, it may be formed to a thickness thinner than 5 μm to reduce process cost and process time. [Metal plate input step, S110]

The metal plate 20' on which the coating layers 26 and 27 are formed is fed into the coating layer perforation forming step. The coating layer perforation forming step is a step of removing the coating layer in the portion where the first through hole is formed before the etching step. That is, by removing the coating layer in the portion corresponding to the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b in the front coating layer 26 and the rear coating layer 27, a hole is formed in the coating layers 26 and 27. Accordingly, the portion of the metal plate 20 ′ where the first through hole 21 is formed is in an exposed state that is not protected by the coating layers 26 and 27 .

In the coating layer perforation forming step, the perforations of the coating layers 26 and 27 may be formed using a laser, and a marking laser may be used. At this time, the laser is irradiated with a relatively low output of 10 to 20w, thereby preventing damage to the surface of the metal plate 20 ′ and effectively only the coating layers 26 and 27 in the portion corresponding to the first through hole 21 . can be removed

The perforations of the coating layers 26 and 27 may be simultaneously formed by a laser that is simultaneously irradiated to the front and rear surfaces of the metal plate 20'. Of course, it will be possible to form a perforation on one surface by the laser irradiated to one surface of the front and rear surfaces of the metal plate 20', and to form the perforations on the other surface by turning over the metal plate 20'.

On the other hand, in order to form the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b of the intended size, the inner diameter of the perforation formed in the front coating layer 26 corresponds to the inner diameter of the intended front groove 21a. The inner diameter of the perforation formed in the rear coating layer 27 may be formed to have a size corresponding to the intended inner diameter of the rear groove 21b.

And, in order to form the first through hole 21 at an accurate position and uniform size, the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b correspond to each other on the front surface and the rear surface of the metal plate 20', respectively. It must be formed in the correct position. That is, the front groove 21a and the rear groove 21b need to be formed so that their centers are arranged on the same extension line. To this end, the perforations formed in the front coating layer 26 and the rear coating layer 27 may be formed to be centered on the same extension line at exact positions corresponding to each other.

The metal plate 20' is provided in a state of being fixed to a separate fixing member during laser processing so that the perforations formed in the front coating layer 26 and the rear coating layer 27 can be formed at precise positions corresponding to each other, This is prevented and the laser processing position can be aligned. The fixing member for fixing the metal plate 20 ′ may be a metal plate fixing member ( FIGS. 13 and 700 ), and the metal plate fixing member 700 will be described in detail in the description with reference to FIG. 13 . [Coating layer perforation forming step , S120]

After the step of forming the perforations in the coating layer, the metal plate 20 ′ from which a part of the coating layers 26 and 27 is removed is put into an etching step. In the etching step, portions corresponding to the front grooves 21a and the rear grooves 21b from which the coating layers 26 and 27 have been removed are corroded using an etching solution. Ferric chloride (FeC12) may be used as the etching solution, and the front and rear surfaces of the metal plate 20' may be etched at the same time. Of course, if necessary, it may be possible to perform a secondary etching process so that the front groove 21a is first processed by etching and then the rear groove 21b is processed by etching.

The front groove 21a is a hole exposed to the front surface of the front panel 20, and is processed to be formed into a fine and uniform size. In addition, the rear groove 21b is formed on the rear surface of the front panel 20 and is not exposed to the outside, and may communicate with the front groove 21a to form the first through hole 21 . It can be etched so as to

That is, the front groove 21a is etched to a relatively shallower depth compared to the rear groove 21b so as to satisfy the fine and uniform size of the opening exposed to the outside of the first through hole 21 . can be processed. And, the rear groove 21b is not exposed to the outside, but can communicate with the front groove 21b so that the light irradiated from the LED 313 can pass through the first through hole 21 . It can be etched to a certain depth.

At this time, as the rear groove 21b is increased, the depth of the rear groove 21b becomes deeper and the depth of the first through hole 21 becomes deeper, so that the thickness of the metal plate 20' can be increased. there will be That is, in order to have a thickness sufficient to satisfy the strength of the front panel 20, the diameter of the rear groove 21b is increased to increase the depth of the rear groove 21b. Of course, the rear groove 21b may be formed in a size that does not contact or overlap with the neighboring rear grooves.

Then, in order to increase the diameter of the rear groove 21b to increase the thickness of the front panel 20, and to increase the depth of the rear groove 21b, the etching processing time of the rear groove 21b is It may be made longer than the etching processing time of the front groove 21a.

On the other hand, the diameter of the front groove (21a) and the rear groove (21b) may be determined by the diameter of the coating layer removed in the coating layer perforation forming step, in the coating layer perforation forming step, the intended front groove (21a) and the rear surface The coating layers 26 and 27 may be removed to correspond to the diameter of the groove 21b. Therefore, in order to form the rear groove 21b to have a larger inner diameter than the front groove 21a, the inner diameter of the perforations formed in the front coating layer 26 is greater than the inner diameter of the perforations formed in the rear coating layer 27 The coating layers 26 and 27 may be removed to have a small size. [Etching step, S130]

When the etching step is completed, the protective film 28 may be attached to the metal plate 20 ′. The protective film 28 is for protecting the surface of the metal plate 20' on which the first through hole 21 is formed, and is applied to the entire front surface of the metal plate 20' to prevent damage such as scratches during movement. can be attached. In this case, the front surface of the first through hole may be shielded by the protective film.

In addition, the protective film 28 may be provided to be removable from the metal plate 20' by being adhered to the metal plate 20' by an adhesive. [Protective film attachment step, S140]

After the step of attaching the protective film 28, hole-fill printing is performed through the unshielded rear surface of the first through hole 21 corresponding to the rear surface of the metal plate 20'. That is, since the front surface of the first through hole 21 is shielded by the protective film 28 , the hole-filling member 22 does not flow out through the front surface of the first through hole 21 and passes through the first through hole 21 . It may be filled in the inside of the sphere 21 . Accordingly, the hole filling member 22 is filled in the first through hole 21 so that the first through hole 21 is completely shielded and the inflow of foreign substances is prevented. [hole-filling printing step, S150]

When the hole-filling printing step is completed, the metal plate 20 ′ is subjected to a process such as bending both ends of the left and right sides by a sheet metal to form the front panel 20 and 20 to form the exterior of the refrigerator door 10 . processed Of course, the processing of the front panel 20 may be performed before the etching step of the first through hole 21 or before the coating layer perforation forming step.

13 is a view showing a metal plate fixing member for fixing the metal plate in the coating layer perforation forming step of FIG. 11 .

In order to form the first through hole 21 in the correct position and the correct size of the metal plate 20', the correct size of the coating layer must be removed at the correct position in the coating layer perforation forming step. Therefore, the metal plate 20' should be provided in a state of being placed in the correct machining position before removing the coating layer, and shaking should be prevented when the coating layer 26, 27 is removed. To this end, the metal plate 20 ′ may be provided by being fixed to the metal plate fixing member 700 in the coating layer perforation forming step.

The metal plate fixing member 700 includes a first fixing jig 710 and a second fixing jig 720 for closely fixing the metal plate 20' on both sides of the metal plate 20', and the metal plate 20'. ) may include a guide jig 730 to which the first fixing jig 710 and the second fixing jig 720 are fixed in close contact.

The first fixing jig 710 and the second fixing jig 720 may be provided in a shape corresponding to the metal plate 20', and are formed to be larger than the metal plate 20' and the metal plate 20'. In this approximately centrally located state, the metal plate 20' may extend further outwardly.

And, in the first fixing jig 710 and the second fixing jig 720, pin fixing holes 712 and 722 are formed in a portion extending outwardly from the metal plate 20 ′, and in the guide jig 730 . At positions corresponding to the pin fixing holes 712 and 722 , a guide pin 731 protruding to be guided through the pin fixing holes 712 and 722 may be formed.

The guide pin 731 and the pin fixing holes 712 and 722 may be formed to have sizes corresponding to each other, and a plurality of them may be formed to be spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, as the pin fixing holes 712 and 722 are penetrated through the guide pin 731 , the fixing jigs 710 and 720 may be firmly fixed to the guide jig 730 . In addition, the metal plate 20' that is closely fixed between the fixing jigs 710 and 720 is also firmly fixed, so that the coating layer at the correct position can be removed by the laser.

The pin fixing holes 712 and 722 may be respectively formed at positions corresponding to each other in the first fixing jig 710 and the second fixing jig 720 , and a plurality of pin fixing holes 712 and 722 may be formed to be spaced apart from each other. In addition, the plurality of pin fixing holes 712 and 722 are formed to be symmetrical to each other at the center of the fixing jigs 710 and 720 to effectively prevent shaking of the fixing jigs 710 and 720 and the metal plate 20'.

Meanwhile, perforated openings 711 and 721 may be formed in the fixing jigs 710 and 720 . The openings 711 and 721 are perforated at positions corresponding to the positions where the first through holes 21 are formed in a state where the metal plate 20 ′ is closely fixed between the fixing jigs 710 and 720 . That is, the portion of the metal plate 20 ′ from which the coating layers 26 and 27 are to be removed is exposed to the outside through the openings 711 and 721 so that the coating layer can be removed by a laser.

14 is a flowchart sequentially illustrating a method of forming a first through hole using a laser on a metal plate having a coating layer formed on both sides according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a first through hole according to the procedure of FIG. It is a schematic diagram schematically showing the forming process of a sphere.

14 and 15, the forming process of the first through hole is sequentially described. In order to form the exterior member, that is, the front panel 20 according to the embodiment of the present invention, first, the material of the front panel 20 is The metal plate 20' is cut to an appropriate length and put into stock.

The metal plate 20' may be a stainless steel plate, and coating layers 26 and 27 may be formed on the front and rear surfaces, respectively, and may be stocked.

The front surface of the metal plate 20' corresponds to the front surface of the front panel 20 exposed to the outside, and the front coating layer 26 is an anti-fingerprint coating or external coating to prevent fingerprints or stains from occurring on the surface of the refrigerator. It may be a color coating to improve aesthetics. Of course, the anti-fingerprint coating and the color coating may be laminated and formed or may be an anti-fingerprint coating having a colored color. In addition, the front coating layer 26 may be formed of an acrylic resin or a polyester resin.

On the other hand, the rear surface of the metal plate 20 ′ corresponds to the rear surface of the front panel 20 that is not exposed to the outside, and is accommodated between the front panel 20 and the decoration members 40 and 43 . It may be exposed to electric components and pipes through which water flows. Accordingly, the back coating layer 27 may be formed of an epoxy resin, and may have high resistance to water and heat.

As the thickness of the coating layers 26 and 27 increases, the adhesion decreases and may interfere with the assembly of the front panel 20 and the decoration members 40 and 43 to cause problems in assembling. On the other hand, as the thickness decreases, the effect of protecting the metal plate 20 ′ decreases. Therefore, the coating layers 26 and 27 are formed as thin as possible, but may be formed to a thickness of 5 μm or more for effective protection of the metal plate 20 ′. Of course, since the back coating layer 27 is not exposed to the outside, it may be formed to a thickness thinner than 5 μm to reduce process cost and process time. [Metal plate input step, S110]

The metal plate 20' on which the coating layers 26 and 27 are formed may be fed into a laser punching step. In the laser perforation step, the coating layers 26 and 27 and the metal plate 20' are pierced at once using a laser to form the perforations of the coating layers 26 and 27 and the laser penetration hole 21'.

The laser through-hole 21 ′ has the same function as the above-described first through-hole 21 , and is defined as another embodiment of the present invention, that is, the first through-hole 21 formed by laser processing. do.

When the perforations of the coating layers 26 and 27 and the laser through-holes 21' are formed at the same time using a laser, the laser output is higher than the laser power when only the perforations of the coating layers 26 and 27 are formed. It may be provided at a higher or the same level. At this time, when laser processing is performed with the same level of output, the laser processing time may be longer to form the laser through hole 21 ′ in the metal plate 20 ′ formed of a metal material.

And, in the laser punching step, the laser is irradiated to the back surface of the metal plate 20', and the punching can be performed from the back surface of the metal plate 20'. Accordingly, the front coating layer 26 exposed to the outside may be damaged relatively less than the rear coating layer 27 not exposed to the outside.

Meanwhile, as the laser is irradiated to the rear surface of the metal plate 20', the inner diameter of the front surface of the laser through hole 21' may be smaller than the inner diameter of the rear surface. That is, the inner circumferential surface of the laser through hole 21 ′ by the laser perforation may be formed in an inclined shape to become narrower toward the front surface. Accordingly, the light irradiated from the display assembly 300 is concentrated by the laser through-hole 21 ′ having the inclined inner circumferential surface so that when viewed from the outside, the light can be seen brighter and visibility can be improved. [Laser perforation step, S220]

The metal plate 20 ′ on which the laser perforation has been completed may be put into a deburring step. In the deburring step, the oxide film and the burr formed on the inner peripheral surface of the laser through hole 21' formed by the laser drilling and the surface of the metal plate 20' are removed. [Deburring step, S230]

When the deburring step is completed, a protective film 28 may be attached to the metal plate 20 ′. The protective film 28 is to protect the surface of the metal plate 20' on which the laser through hole 21' is formed, and is applied to the entire front surface of the metal plate 20' to prevent damage such as scratches during movement. can be attached. In this case, the front surface of the laser through hole 21 ′ may be shielded by the protective film.

In addition, the protective film 28 may be provided to be removable from the metal plate 20' by being adhered to the metal plate 20' by an adhesive. [Protective film attachment step, S140]

After the step of attaching the protective film 28 , hole-fill printing is performed through the unshielded rear surface of the laser through hole 21 ′ corresponding to the rear surface of the metal plate 20 ′. That is, since the front surface of the laser through hole 21 ′ is shielded by the protective film 28 , the hole filling member 22 does not flow out through the front surface of the laser through hole 21 ′. (21') may be filled inside. Accordingly, the hole filling member 22 is filled in the laser through hole 21 ′ to completely shield the laser through hole 21 ′ and prevent the inflow of foreign substances. [hole-filling printing step, S150]

When the hole filling printing step is completed, the metal plate 20 ′ is processed into the front panel 20 forming the exterior of the refrigerator door 10 through a process such as bending both ends of the left and right sides by a sheet metal. Of course, the processing of the front panel 20 may be performed before the etching step of the first through hole 21 or before the coating layer perforation forming step.

Hereinafter, an assembly process of the refrigerator door 10 after the molding of the front panel 20 is completed will be described.

After the molding of the front panel 20 is completed, the display cover 200 is attached to the front panel 20 . In this state, an adhesive member 25 is attached to the front surfaces of the display cover 200 and the housing cover 510 , and the display cover 200 and the touch sensor assembly 500 are used using the adhesive member 25 . ) is attached to the rear surface of the front panel 20 at the same time.

Meanwhile, a diffusion sheet 25 may be disposed in the display area on the rear surface of the front panel 20 before the display cover 200 is attached. The diffusion sheet 25 is positioned between the first through hole and the second through hole 220 , and may realize even brightness by dispersing the light emitted from the LED 313 .

When the attachment of the display cover 200 to the front panel 20 is completed, the frame 100 is fixedly mounted to the front panel 20 to accommodate the display cover 200 . Then, the door liner 30 and the decor member 40 are assembled to form the overall appearance of the refrigerator door 10 . In this state, a foaming liquid is injected into the refrigerator door 10 to foam the heat insulating material 24 . The heat insulating material 24 is filled in the entire inner space of the refrigerator door 10 except for the inner region of the frame 100 , and stably fixes the frame 100 .

The assembled touch sensor assembly 500 is seated in the receiving part 210 of the display cover 200 , and the housing coupling part 511 is coupled to the receiving part 210 so that the touch sensor assembly 500 is It maintains a state fixed to the display cover 200 .

When assembling the outer shape of the refrigerator door 10 and molding the insulating material 24 are completed, the touch sensor assembly 500 is mounted on the frame display 400 .

In a state in which the touch sensor assembly 500 is mounted on the frame display 400 , an operator operates the first cable connector 610 connected to the sensor PCB 700 and the sensor mounted on the display PCB 310 . The second cable connector 620 connected to the control unit 330 is connected.

Since the first cable connector 610 and the second cable connector 620 are already connected after the forming of the insulating material 24 is completed, the sensor control unit ( 330) to prevent damage.

After the first cable connector 610 and the second cable connector 620 are connected to each other, the frame display 400 is inserted through the insertion hole 41 , and the frame display 400 is inserted using the frame handle 420 . The frame display 400 can be completely inserted into the display cover 200 .

When the frame display 400 is completely inserted, the display assembly 300 is completely in close contact with the rear surface of the display cover 200 , and the first through hole 21 , the second through hole 220 , and the third through hole 321 can all be aligned and communicated in turn.

After insertion of the frame display 400 is completed, the insertion hole cover 42 is mounted on the insertion hole 41 to close the insertion hole 41 and fix the upper end of the frame handle 420 to secure the refrigerator door 10 . ) to complete the production.

On the other hand, the touch sensor assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention is not provided only in the refrigerator door according to the above-described embodiments, but may be provided in various types of home appliances. Since the exterior member and the display assembly described below have the same structure as the aforementioned display and the exterior member, a detailed description of the same configuration will be omitted.

17 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a structure in which a display unit is formed in an air conditioner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawings, the indoor unit 60 of the air conditioner according to the embodiment of the present invention has an overall external shape formed by a case. The case may include a base 61 , a rear cabinet 62 disposed above the second half of the base 61 , and a front cabinet 63 disposed above the first half of the base 61 , An exterior member 64 may be disposed on the front side of the front cabinet 63 .

The base 61, the rear cabinet 62, and the front cabinet 63 are combined to form a predetermined space therein. A blower fan and flow path for suction and discharge of air are provided inside the space, and a filter assembly for filtering intake air, a heat exchanger for heat exchange of intake air, and a configuration for driving a refrigeration cycle are accommodated. In addition, the base 61, the rear cabinet 62, and the front cabinet 63 are provided with a plurality of outlets for discharging the heat-exchanged air with the inlet through which the outside air is sucked.

Meanwhile, the exterior member 64 is rotatably mounted to the front cabinet 63 and is detachably mounted. Accordingly, the front side of the front cabinet 63 can be opened by rotating or detaching the exterior member 64 , and the operation and maintenance of the components provided on the inside and outside of the front cabinet 63 are possible. do. Of course, the exterior member 64 may be configured to be fixedly mounted on one side of the case as one component constituting the exterior of the indoor unit 60 .

A display unit 65 for displaying an operating state of the air conditioner may be formed on the exterior member 64 . The display unit 65 may be formed of a set of fine through-holes as in the above-described embodiment, and the through-holes may form a hole filling coating layer by the above-described method of forming a hole by etching and screen printing. . And, if necessary, a touch manipulation unit 66 may be formed on one side of the display unit 65 by printing or surface processing.

In addition, a display assembly 67 is provided at the rear of the display unit 65 , and by irradiating light to the display unit 65 by the display assembly 67, operation information of the air conditioner can be expressed. The display assembly 67 may be configured as a combination of LEDs to provide information in the form of numbers or symbols.

In addition, a touch sensor assembly 500 may be attached to the rear surface of the exterior member 64 corresponding to the touch manipulation unit 66 . The touch sensor assembly 500 is adhered by an adhesive member such as an adhesive or double-sided tape, and the touch sensor assembly 500 is in close contact with the touch manipulation unit 66 to recognize a user's touch manipulation.

18 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a structure in which a display unit is formed in a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawing, a washing machine 70 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a washing machine body 71 forming an exterior, a tub for storing wash water, and a drum rotatably disposed inside the tub to receive laundry. And, a driving device for transmitting the rotational force for rotating the drum, a washing water supply device for supplying wash water to the tub, and a discharge device for discharging the wash water are provided.

Meanwhile, the front part of the washing machine body 71 is opened to put laundry into the drum, and the opening of the washing machine body 71 can be opened and closed by the door 72 . To this end, the door 72 is rotatably mounted to the main body 71 .

A plate-shaped exterior member 73 may be provided on the front and upper surfaces of the washing machine body 71 except for the door 72 . In addition, a display unit 74 and a touch manipulation unit 75 may be formed on at least a portion of the exterior member 73 .

The display unit 74 displays the operating state of the washing machine 70, and may be formed of a set of fine through-holes as in the above-described embodiment. In addition, the display unit 74 may be formed of a set of fine through-holes as in the above-described embodiment, and the through-holes may form a hole filling coating layer by the above-described method of forming a hole by etching and screen printing. there will be

In addition, the touch manipulation unit 75 allows the washing machine 70 to be driven and selected by the user's touch manipulation. Of course, a dial-shaped knob 76 for operating the washing machine 70 may be provided.

In addition, a display assembly 77 is provided at the rear of the display unit 74 , and operation information of the washing machine 70 can be expressed by irradiating light to the display window 74 by the display assembly 77 . . The display assembly 77 may be configured as a combination of LEDs to provide information in the form of numbers or symbols.

In addition, a touch sensor assembly 500 may be attached to the rear surface of the exterior member 73 corresponding to the touch manipulation unit 75 . The touch sensor assembly 500 is adhered by an adhesive member such as an adhesive or double-sided tape, and the touch sensor assembly 500 is in close contact with the touch manipulation unit 75 to recognize a user's touch manipulation.

19 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a structure in which a display unit is formed in a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to the drawings, the dish washing machine 80 provided with the touch sensor assembly 500 according to the embodiment of the present invention has an external shape formed by the dish washing machine body 81 formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape.

Although not shown in detail, the inside of the dishwasher body 81 includes a cavity in which dishes for washing are accommodated, a rack member in which dishes are drawn out and placed in the cavity, and water for washing into the interior of the cavity. It consists of a water supply device for supplying, and a discharge device for discharging the washed water.

In addition, the dishwasher body 81 is provided with a door 82 . The door 82 is configured to selectively shield the opened front surface of the dishwasher main body 81 , and when the door 82 is closed, the front exterior of the dishwasher 80 is formed.

The door 82 includes an upper door and a lower door, and may be formed to have a structure in which the upper door can be opened and closed by interlocking when the lower door is operated. In addition, the lower door may be provided with a handle 83 for opening and closing the door 82 .

An exterior member 84 forming an exterior is attached to the front surface of the door 82 , that is, to the front surfaces of the upper and lower doors.

A display unit 85 for displaying the operating state of the dishwasher 80 may be formed on the exterior member 84 . The display window 85 may be formed of a set of fine through-holes as in the above-described embodiment. In addition, the display unit 85 may be formed of a set of fine through-holes as in the above-described embodiment, and the through-holes may form a hole filling coating layer by the above-described method of forming a hole by etching and screen printing. there will be

A display assembly 87 is provided at the rear of the display unit 85 , and operation information of the dishwasher 80 can be expressed by irradiating light to the display unit 85 by the display assembly 87 . The display assembly 87 may be configured as a combination of LEDs to provide information in the form of numbers or symbols.

A touch manipulation unit 86 may be formed on one side of the display unit 85 by printing or surface processing. In addition, the touch sensor assembly 500 may be attached to the rear surface of the exterior member 84 corresponding to the touch manipulation unit 86 . The touch sensor assembly 500 is adhered by an adhesive member such as an adhesive or double-sided tape, and the touch sensor assembly is in close contact with the touch manipulation unit to recognize a user's touch manipulation.

20 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a structure in which a display unit is formed in a cooking appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawings, the cooking appliance 90 provided with the touch sensor assembly 500 according to the embodiment of the present invention has an outer shape formed by the cooking appliance body 91 formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape.

Although not shown in detail, the cooking appliance body 91 has a cavity in which food for cooking is accommodated, a heating means or magnetron for cooking food inside the cavity, and a fan assembly for convection inside the cavity, etc. This may be provided.

In addition, the cooking appliance body 91 is provided with a door 92 . The door 92 is configured to selectively shield the opened front surface of the cooking appliance main body 91 , and forms the front exterior of the cooking appliance 90 when the door 92 is closed.

The door 92 is hinged to the cooking appliance body 91 to be rotatably provided, and is rotated in the left-right direction or in the vertical direction to selectively open and close the opened front surface of the cooking appliance 90 .

In addition, the door 92 is provided with a handle 93 for opening and closing the door 92 . In addition, an exterior member 94 forming the front exterior of the door 92 may be provided on the front surface of the door 92 . The exterior member 94 is not limited to the door 92 and may form one side of the cooking appliance body 91 .

Meanwhile, a display unit 95 for displaying the operating state of the cooking appliance 90 may be formed on the exterior member 94 . The display unit 95 may be formed of a set of fine through-holes as in the above-described embodiment. In addition, the display unit 95 may be formed as a set of fine through-holes as in the above-described embodiment, and the through-holes may form a hole filling coating layer by the above-described method of forming a hole by etching and screen printing. there will be In addition, a touch manipulation unit 96 may be formed on one side of the display unit 95 by printing or surface processing.

In addition, a display assembly 97 is provided at the rear of the display unit 95 , and by irradiating light to the display window 95 by the display assembly 97, operation information of the cooking appliance can be expressed. The display assembly 97 may be configured as a combination of LEDs to provide information in the form of numbers or symbols.

In addition, a touch sensor assembly 500 may be attached to the rear surface of the exterior member 94 corresponding to the touch manipulation unit 96 . The touch sensor assembly 500 is adhered by an adhesive member such as an adhesive or double-sided tape, and the touch sensor assembly 500 is in close contact with the touch manipulation unit 96 to recognize a user's touch manipulation.

Claims (20)

In the method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances, the light irradiated from the LED is transmitted to form a plurality of through-holes indicating operation information of the home appliance, and forming the exterior of the home appliance,
A front coating layer forming the exterior of the home appliance is formed on the front side, the step of putting a metal plate having a rear coating layer formed on the back side;
irradiating a laser to the front coating layer and the back coating layer to form a hole in which a portion corresponding to the through hole is removed in the front coating layer and the back coating layer except for the metal plate;
introducing an etching solution through the perforations formed in the front coating layer and the rear coating layer to form the through-holes communicating with the perforations in the metal plate;
shielding the perforation of the front coating layer by attaching a protective film to the front surface of the front coating layer in a state in which the through hole is formed;
A method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances comprising a hole-filling step of filling both the perforations of the front coating layer, the through-holes and the perforations of the rear coating layer with a hole-filling member capable of transmitting light through the perforations of the rear coating layer.
The method of claim 1,
The front coating layer is a method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances formed by a color coating having a colored color to form the color of the exterior member.
The method of claim 1,
The front coating layer is formed of an acrylic resin or polyester resin,
The back coating layer is formed of an epoxy resin,
The front coating layer and the back coating layer is a method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances that does not react to the etching solution.
The method of claim 1,
The metal plate is formed of a stainless material,
The etchant is ferric chloride (FeC12) that corrodes the metal plate without corroding the front coating layer and the back coating layer.
delete The method of claim 1,
An inner diameter of the perforation of the front coating layer is formed smaller than the inner diameter of the perforation of the rear coating layer.
7. The method of claim 6,
An inner diameter of the front surface of the through hole is formed to be smaller than the inner diameter of the rear surface of the through hole.
The method of claim 1,
The metal plate may be fixedly mounted to the metal plate fixing member so that the machining position of the perforation may be aligned,
In a state in which the metal plate is fixed, laser processing is performed so that the center of the perforation of the front coating layer and the perforation of the rear coating layer are located on the same extension line.
9. The method of claim 8,
The metal plate fixing member,
A first fixing jig and a second fixing jig disposed in contact with both surfaces of the metal plate and having an opening formed therein;
It includes a guide jig for fixing the first fixing jig and the second fixing jig,
The metal plate is a method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances in which the perforation is processed through the opening in a state disposed between the fixed first and second fixing jigs.
10. The method of claim 9,
The first fixing jig and the second fixing jig are formed to extend further than the outer end of the metal plate,
The guide jig has a guide pin for fixing the first fixing jig and the second fixing jig through a pin fixing hole formed outside the first fixing jig and the second fixing jig.
The method of claim 1,
The through hole is
a front groove formed by etching on the entire surface of the metal plate through the perforation of the front coating layer;
It is formed by a rear groove formed by etching on the rear surface of the metal plate through the perforation of the rear coating layer,
The method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances is formed by etching the front groove and the rear groove until they are in contact with each other.
12. The method of claim 11,
A method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances, wherein the diameter of the front groove is smaller than the diameter of the rear groove.
13. The method of claim 12,
A method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances, wherein a diameter of a portion where the front groove and the rear groove are in contact with each other is formed to be smaller than the diameter of the front groove.
12. The method of claim 11,
The rear groove is a method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances that is etched for a longer time than the front groove.
12. The method of claim 11,
The front groove is formed by etching to have a set diameter,
The method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances, wherein the rear groove is etched until it communicates with the front groove.
12. The method of claim 11,
A method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances in which the depth of the rear groove is deeper than that of the front groove.
The method of claim 1,
The hole filling member is formed to form a layer of a predetermined thickness in a portion of the metal plate including the through hole,
A method of manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances, which is formed to completely fill a plurality of the through holes at once.
delete The method of claim 1,
The laser irradiated to form the perforations in the front coating layer and the back coating layer is irradiated with an output of 10 to 20w to prevent damage to the metal plate.
The method of claim 1,
The method for manufacturing an exterior member for home appliances to which the protective film is removably attached.

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