KR102598224B1 - Refigerator having microphone module - Google Patents

Abstract

A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet forming a storage space; A door that opens and closes the storage space; a receiving portion recessed in the upper surface of the door; A microphone module provided inside the receiving portion and through which the user's voice is input; a door cover that shields the receiving portion; A microphone mounting portion formed on the door cover and on which the microphone module is mounted; and a microphone hole formed in the microphone mounting portion and formed to penetrate the door cover through which the user's voice passes. The upper surface of the microphone module is in contact with the lower surface of the door cover at a position corresponding to the microphone hole. It is characterized in that it is installed so as to.

Description

Refrigerator with microphone module {Refigerator having microphone module}

The present invention relates to a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module.

In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at low temperatures in an internal storage space shielded by a door. To this end, refrigerators are designed to keep stored food in optimal condition by cooling the inside of the storage space using cold air generated through heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle.

Recently, refrigerators are gradually becoming larger and more multi-functional in accordance with changes in eating habits and the trend of higher quality products, and refrigerators equipped with various convenience devices to improve user convenience are being released.

In particular, recently, a variety of refrigerators have been developed that allow users to control the operation of the refrigerator using voice. In the case of a refrigerator, if you are holding an object with both hands, there may be problems with opening and closing the door or operating the refrigerator. To solve this problem, a refrigerator is being developed that places a microphone in the refrigerator and controls its operation by receiving the user's voice.

Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1999-0041832 discloses a structure in which a microphone for inputting a user's voice is provided, and a voice signal recognition unit analyzes the voice received from the microphone to operate a motor that drives a door. Through this structure, the user can open and close the door by inputting a voice.

And, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-20180-0079835 discloses a refrigerator equipped with a microphone in a cabinet or door, and controlling the output of a screen provided to the door by the microphone. Through this structure, the user can control the refrigerator's screen and operations using voice.

However, in this prior art, there is no specific description of the placement position of the microphone and no specific description of the arrangement structure.

The microphone has the best recognition rate when placed on the front of the main body or door to increase the voice recognition rate, but a microphone hole may be formed at the location corresponding to the microphone placement, which may be exposed to the outside and deteriorate the appearance of the refrigerator. There is.

If the microphone hole is placed in an invisible location, problems such as low recognition rate or excessive structural noise may occur. Additionally, depending on where the microphone is placed, dust or dirt may block the microphone hole, and in this case, normal voice input becomes impossible.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that can improve voice recognition performance.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that has a structure that is easy to install.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that can effectively recognize a user's voice and control the operation of the refrigerator.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that can improve the appearance by minimizing exposure of components for voice input.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that ensures a voice recognition rate without exposing the microphone hole through which the user's voice signal flows to the user.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that can improve voice recognition rate by minimizing the effects of vibration and noise generated during operation of the refrigerator.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module to prevent the microphone hole through which voice is inputted from being blocked by dust or foreign substances.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that can prevent a decrease in voice recognition rate by maintaining the installed state of the microphone module even when the door is repeatedly opened and closed.

The purpose of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that allows the microphone module to be placed in a location that is easy to install and service.

The purpose of an embodiment of the invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that can improve convenience of use by controlling the door light with the user's voice input.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that can improve convenience of use by controlling the dispenser with a user's voice input.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module that can control the screen output of the dispenser with a user's voice input.

The purpose of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator equipped with a microphone module in which the drawer door is pulled in and out and raised and lowered by a user's voice input.

A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet forming a storage space; A door that opens and closes the storage space; a receiving portion recessed in the upper surface of the door; A microphone module provided inside the receiving portion and through which the user's voice is input; a door cover that shields the receiving portion; A microphone mounting portion formed on the door cover and on which the microphone module is mounted; and a microphone hole formed in the microphone mounting portion and formed to penetrate the door cover through which the user's voice passes. The upper surface of the microphone module is in contact with the lower surface of the door cover at a position corresponding to the microphone hole. It can be equipped to do so.
The microphone mounting portion may protrude upward from the door cover.
The microphone hole is opened to face forward in the microphone mounting unit and may be formed on a protruding peripheral surface of the microphone mounting unit.
The microphone mounting portion includes a protrusion protruding upward; It extends forward from the front end of the protrusion and includes an inclined portion having a slope that decreases as it moves forward, and the microphone hole may be formed in the inclined portion.
The microphone mounting unit includes a depression that is depressed downward from the front of the slope, and the front end of the slope may extend to the bottom of the depression.
A hole guide protrudes around the microphone hole, and the front surface of the hole guide may be formed to have a slope greater than the slope of the inclined portion.
The microphone module is mounted on the back of the inclined portion and may be spaced apart from the inner surface of the receiving portion.
A microphone supporter is provided on the lower surface of the microphone mounting unit to support the microphone module from below and is coupled to the door cover. The microphone supporter includes a mounting surface coupled to the protrusion; It includes a support surface extending at an angle corresponding to the inclined portion at a front end of the mounting surface, and the microphone module can be mounted on the support surface.
A connector hole that opens to expose a microphone connector protruding downward from the microphone module may be formed in the microphone supporter.
The receiving portion may be provided with a voice module that is spaced apart from the microphone module and is electrically connected to the microphone module to process voice signals input from the microphone module.
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet forming a storage space; A door that opens and closes the storage space; a receiving portion recessed in the upper surface of the door; a microphone module accommodated in the receiving portion and including a microphone element through which a user's voice is input; a speaker module accommodated in the receiving portion and outputting sound; a door cover that shields the accommodating part, has a microphone hole formed at a position corresponding to the microphone element, and on which the microphone module and the speaker module are mounted; a speaker mounting portion recessed in the door cover corresponding to the speaker module; a speaker hole formed in the speaker mounting portion and open to expose an audio output portion of the speaker module; and a speaker cover provided on the speaker mounting unit and covering the speaker hole from above.
A perimeter of the speaker cover may be spaced apart from a perimeter of the speaker mounting portion.
An edge that protrudes upward may be formed along the perimeter of the speaker hole.
An output guide may be formed around the audio output unit to protrude into close contact with the periphery of the speaker hole.
The receiving portion may be provided with a voice module that is spaced apart from the microphone module and the speaker module and connected to the microphone module and the speaker module by a connector.
A control unit electrically connected to the voice module is formed in the cabinet, and the control unit can control the operation of the refrigerator according to the voice received from the microphone module.
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet forming a storage space; A door that opens and closes the storage space; a plurality of microphone holes formed to penetrate one side of the door through which the user's voice passes; And a microphone module mounted on the inner side of the door corresponding to the position where the microphone hole is formed, and through which the user's voice is input. The microphone module includes: a substrate with one side in close contact with the inner side of the door; a plurality of microphone elements provided on the other side of the substrate and spaced apart from each other; a plurality of substrate holes formed through the substrate at positions corresponding to the plurality of microphone elements; A sealing member formed in a sheet shape and disposed on the substrate and made of an adhesive material to closely adhere between the upper surface of the substrate and the microphone mounting portion; and a plurality of through holes formed through the sealing member at positions corresponding to the plurality of microphone elements, wherein the microphone holes, the through holes, and the substrate hole are sequentially communicated to form a passage toward the microphone elements. You can.
The microphone module may be mounted on the cap deco that forms the upper surface of the door.
The microphone module may be mounted on an outer case that forms the front of the door.
The microphone module may be mounted on an inclined surface formed at an angle at the bottom of the outer case.
The microphone module may be mounted on the door handle.
The handle is recessed on the inside, and the microphone module may be placed on the recessed inside of the handle.
A lower cap decor forming a surface facing the ground is formed on the lower surface of the door, and the microphone module can be mounted on the lower cap decor.
The door may be provided with a dispenser for dispensing water or ice, and a microphone module may be provided, wherein the microphone module is mounted on the dispenser.
The door is equipped with a display to display the operating status of the refrigerator, and the microphone module may be mounted on the display.
The microphone hole, the substrate hole, and the microphone element may be arranged on the same extension line.
The sealing member may be formed of a compressible material.
The sealing member may be formed in a shape corresponding to the size of the substrate.
A connector for electrical connection to the outside of the board may be provided on one side of the board, which is the same as the side on which the plurality of microphone modules are mounted.
The connector may be disposed between adjacent microphone elements.

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The following effects can be expected from the microphone module and the refrigerator equipped with the microphone module according to the proposed embodiment.

Even when the user is holding an object in both hands, the door opening device is operated through the user's voice input, allowing the door to automatically open, dispensing water and ice through the dispenser, adjusting the display output screen, and pulling in and out of the drawer door. There is an advantage in that it allows for smooth dispensing of water or ice even in situations where both hands are not free by being able to operate it.

In addition, since it is possible to control various operations of the refrigerator by the user's voice, operation structures such as buttons exposed to the outside can be omitted, and components such as handles can be omitted or minimized to make the appearance more neat and luxurious. There is an advantage.

In addition, the microphone module is accommodated inside the cap deco at the top of the door, and a microphone hole is formed at the top of the cap deco, which has the advantage of improving recognition rate while preventing direct exposure to the user.

In particular, the microphone hole is formed on an inclined portion of the protruding microphone mounting portion, so there is an advantage in that the microphone hole can be secured at a minimum protrusion height. In addition, the microphone hole formed on the inclined portion is visually less visible to the user, which has the advantage of preventing exposure of the microphone hole while effectively performing voice recognition.

Additionally, a hole guide is formed around the microphone hole, which has the advantage of preventing dust or foreign matter falling by the hole guide from directly entering the microphone hole.

In addition, the microphone hole formed on the inclined portion becomes lower from top to bottom, and its slope is formed to be larger than that of the inclined portion, which has the advantage of preventing the inflow of dust or foreign matter and allowing voice input more effectively. there is.

In addition, a depression is formed below the microphone hole, and when foreign matter or dust, which can frequently occur due to the arrangement structure of the top of the door, falls, it accumulates inside the depression to prevent the microphone hole from being easily blocked or obscured. do. Therefore, this makes it possible to maintain voice recognition performance.

Additionally, the microphone module may be mounted in close contact with the inclined surface and may be stably fixed and mounted on the door cover by a microphone supporter.

In addition, the microphone module has a structure in which the board is in close contact with the door cover, so that a path through which voice can flow in the shortest distance from the microphone element mounted on the board can be formed, which is an advantage that voice recognition performance can be dramatically improved. There is.

The microphone module is mounted on the door cover so that operating noise or shock from the refrigerator is not directly transmitted, and is disposed in a hanging form within the upper accommodating portion to minimize noise and vibration transmitted from the refrigerator cabinet. Therefore, it can be expected that voice recognition performance will be improved by reducing noise.

In addition, the microphone module can be maintained in a normal mounting state by the stable support of the microphone supporter even in an environment where the door is repeatedly opened and closed and subjected to shock.

In addition, the microphone module can be in close contact with the back of the door cover and the board on which the microphone element is mounted by an airtight member, thereby blocking the inflow of noise. In addition, even if an impact is applied to the door by the elastic airtight member, it is cushioned to protect the microphone module and reduce noise caused by the impact. Therefore, there is an advantage in reducing the possibility of incorrect voice input and improving voice recognition performance.

Additionally, a microphone module and a speaker module may be disposed inside the upper accommodating portion, and a voice module connected to the microphone module and the speaker module through a connector may be further provided. Therefore, in a service situation, there is an advantage in that easier service and maintenance are possible by opening the door cover and separately mounting the modular microphone module and speaker module.

In addition, by having a structure in which the microphone module and speaker module are arranged separately from the voice module and mounted on the door cover, space for service work can be secured, and assembly workability can be expected to be improved.

In addition, a speaker mounting portion on which the speaker module is mounted is formed on the door cover, and a speaker hole and a border around the speaker hole are formed on the recessed inside of the speaker mounting portion to prevent dust or foreign substances from penetrating into the speaker module. .

In addition, the speaker mounting part is provided with a speaker cover, so that it has a structure that prevents dust or foreign substances from entering while effectively outputting audio.

In addition, the speaker module has an output guide in contact with the outer surface of the edge, which has the advantage of preventing malfunction by minimizing transmission of the voice output from the speaker module to an adjacent microphone module.

Additionally, the microphone module may be composed of a plurality of microphone elements. Therefore, noise can be reduced by analyzing voice signals input to both microphone elements, so voice recognition performance can be further improved.

In particular, by using a plurality of microphone elements, it is possible to determine the location of the input voice signal, and thus the location of the user close to the front of the refrigerator, which corresponds to the actual user, can be accurately recognized, and thus the user's voice can be heard even in an environment with a lot of surrounding noise. It has the advantage of being able to recognize accurately.

Additionally, a voice module connected to the microphone module is disposed inside the upper accommodating portion. Therefore, in a service situation, by opening the door cover and mounting the modular microphone module and speaker module separately, there is an advantage in that easier service and maintenance are possible.

In addition, the voice module has a structure capable of communicating with a remote server, and therefore can transmit the voice signal transmitted from the microphone module to the server, and the server processes and analyzes the voice signal in natural language to operate and operate the drive unit. It can be made available for operation of the refrigerator.

In other words, when the size and performance of a server placed in a remote location are secured, the voice module can be designed at a level that allows minimum communication, and therefore can be placed on the door in the minimum size. Therefore, space loss for insulation of the door can be minimized, and when a transparent sub-door is placed on the door, there is an advantage of securing sufficient space for the sub-door.

In addition, there is an advantage in that the manufacturing cost of the refrigerator can be reduced by simply configuring the voice module.

In addition, by securing the performance of the server with relatively few space and cost constraints, voice processing and recognition performance can be significantly improved, thereby ensuring an excellent voice recognition rate, and furthermore, the refrigerator can be operated through voice commands. There is an advantage in ensuring operational reliability.

1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the refrigerator.
Figure 3 is a front view of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4' of Figure 3.
Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the upper part of the refrigerator door.
Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the combined structure of the cab door cover, speaker module, and microphone module according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 is a partially enlarged view of the microphone mounting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 is a perspective view of the microphone mounting unit viewed from below.
Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting structure of the microphone module.
Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the microphone module.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of a microphone supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a cutaway cross-sectional view showing the combined structure of the microphone module and the microphone supporter.
Figure 13 is a partial enlarged view showing the combined state of the microphone module and microphone supporter.
Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting structure of the speaker module.
Figure 15 is a block diagram showing the control signal flow of the refrigerator.
Figures 16 to 23 are diagrams showing different arrangements of the microphone module.
Figure 24 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 25 is a perspective view of the upper door.
Figure 26 is an exploded perspective view showing the upper coupling structure of the refrigerator and the upper door.
Figure 27 is an exploded perspective view showing the combined structure of the cover mounted on the top of the upper door, the speaker module, and the microphone module.
Figure 28 is a block diagram showing the control signal flow of the refrigerator.
Figure 29 is a perspective view of the lower door in a closed state according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 30 is a perspective view of the lower door in a pulled out state.
Figure 31 is a diagram showing the inner state of the lower door of Figure 30.
Figure 32 is a perspective view of the lower door being pulled out and the container being raised.
Figure 33 is a diagram showing the inner state of the lower door of Figure 32.

Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail along with the drawings. However, the present invention cannot be said to be limited to the embodiments in which the idea of the present invention is presented, and other inventions that are regressive or other embodiments included within the scope of the present invention can be easily developed by adding, changing, or deleting other components. can be suggested.

1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. And, Figure 2 is a perspective view of the refrigerator. And, Figure 3 is a front view of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawing, the external appearance of the refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed by a cabinet 10 forming a storage space and a door opening and closing the storage space.

The interior of the cabinet 10 may be divided into upper and lower sections, and a refrigerating chamber may be formed in the upper part of the cabinet 10 and a freezing chamber may be formed in the lower part of the cabinet 10. The interior of the cabinet 10 may be divided into left and right sides, and a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment may be formed on both left and right sides, respectively.

The door may be composed of a refrigerator door 20 and a freezer door 30. The refrigerating compartment door 20 and the freezer compartment door 30 can open and close the refrigerating compartment and the freezer compartment by rotating them, respectively.

The refrigerating compartment door 20 may be composed of a pair of left refrigerating compartment doors 21 and a right refrigerating compartment door 22 that open and close the refrigerating compartment in the upper part of the cabinet 10. Additionally, the freezer door 30 may be composed of a pair of left freezer door 31 and right freezer door 32 that open and close the lower part of the cabinet 10.

It should be noted in advance that embodiments of the present invention can be applied to all types of doors of refrigerators regardless of the shape and structure of the door. For convenience of explanation and understanding, a refrigerator consisting of a refrigerator compartment door and a freezer compartment door is taken as an example. I decided to do it.

Meanwhile, an ice maker 25 may be provided on the inner side of the left refrigerating compartment door 21. The ice maker 25 is a device that makes and stores ice by automatically supplying water, and may be installed inside the insulated space formed on the back of the left refrigerating compartment door 21.

Additionally, a dispenser 23 may be provided on the front of the left refrigerating compartment door 21. The dispenser 23 allows ice or purified water produced in the ice maker 25 to be dispensed, and water or ice can be dispensed by external manipulation by the user.

An auxiliary display 231 may be provided on the upper part of the dispenser 23. The auxiliary display 231 displays the operating status of the dispenser 23 and the refrigerator 1 and allows operation input. When the display 24 is not provided on the right refrigerator door 22. It may also perform the functions of the display 24.

The right refrigerating compartment door 22 may have an opening 220 formed in the center, and a door basket 221 may be provided inside the opening 220. Additionally, a sub door 40 that opens and closes the opening 220 may be provided. Accordingly, the user will be able to access the door basket 221 by opening and closing the sub door 40. Additionally, the right refrigerating compartment door 22 equipped with the sub door 40 may also be called the main door.

The sub door 40 may be axially coupled at one end to enable rotation, and a handle 425 may be recessed at the other end to facilitate rotation of the sub door 40.

At least a portion of the sub-door 40 may be selectively transparent or opaque, and therefore, the inside of the opening 220 can be viewed even when the sub-door 40 is closed.

Additionally, a display 24 may be provided at the bottom of the opening 220. The display 24 displays the operating status of the refrigerator and allows the user to input operations for operating the refrigerator 1.

Accordingly, when the display 24 is turned on even when the sub door 40 is closed, the user can check the output information of the display 24 through the sub door 40.

Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 3, a microphone mounting portion 511 on which a microphone module 53 for receiving a user's voice is mounted may protrude from the upper surface of the right refrigerating compartment door 22. The microphone module 53 may be provided inside the microphone mounting unit 511.

The microphone module 53 and the microphone mounting unit 511 may be placed in a position biased to the left or at the left end of the right refrigerating compartment door 22. Since the refrigerator compartment door 20 is provided in pairs on both left and right sides, when the microphone module 53 is placed at the left end of the right refrigerator compartment door 22, when the user speaks in the center of the refrigerator 1 You can recognize it more effectively.

Due to the nature of its shape, the microphone mounting portion 511 becomes virtually invisible when viewed from the front. Since the height of the refrigerator is usually greater than the user's height, the microphone mounting portion 511 is not visible to the user in a normal use environment. And, even if the user is away from the refrigerator 1, the microphone mounting unit 511 and the microphone hole 512 located in the microphone mounting unit 511 have a structure that is difficult to see.

That is, the microphone mounting unit 511 can have a position and structure that ensures a high recognition rate while minimizing external exposure. Hereinafter, the structure of the microphone mounting unit 511 and the microphone module 53 will be examined in more detail.

In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, the microphone module 53 is provided on the right refrigerator door 22 as an example, but the present invention is applicable to all types of refrigerators in which a cap decoration is formed on the upper surface of the door. Please note that it can be applied. In the following, the right refrigerating compartment door 22 will be referred to as the door 22.

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4' of Figure 3. And, Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the upper part of the refrigerator door.

As shown, the sub-door 40 forms a perimeter, includes a door frame 41 with an open center, and is mounted on the door frame 41 to shield the open center of the door frame 41. It may include a panel assembly (42).

The panel assembly 42 includes a plurality of glasses 421, 422, 423 spaced back and forth, and a spacer 424 provided between the glasses 421, 422, 423 and supporting the periphery of the plurality of glasses 421, 422, 423. It can be included. Additionally, an insulating space may be formed between the plurality of spaced apart glasses 421, 422, and 423. And, at least one glass 421 may be formed of insulating glass.

And, although not shown, a display module such as a touch sensor and a transparent LCD (LCD) may be disposed on the back of the glass 421 provided at the front of the panel assembly 42. In this structure, the panel assembly 42 itself can perform the function of a display.

The panel assembly 42 may form the front and rear sides of the sub door 40 when mounted on the door frame 41. In particular, the frontmost glass 421 of the panel assembly 42 is formed larger than the other glasses 422 and 423 so that the protruding outer end can be seated on the door frame 41, and the sub-door 40 ) can form the entire front of the. Additionally, a film of a specific color may be attached to at least the front glass 421 so that the inside of the opening 220 can be selectively seen, or a coating layer such as vapor deposition may be formed.

Meanwhile, the door 22 includes an out plate 222 that forms the front and peripheral surfaces of the door 22, and a door liner 223 that is combined with the out plate 222 to form the rear of the door 22. ) may include. The out plate 222 may be formed of a metal material, and may be formed so that a portion corresponding to the opening 220 is open.

The door liner 223 may form the rear surface of the door 22 and the inner surface of the opening 220. Of course, if necessary, a separate frame may be further formed to form the inner surface of the opening 220, and a structure in which the out plate 222 and the door liner 223 are coupled to both sides of the frame, respectively. You can have it.

The door light 225 may be mounted on the door liner 223 forming the inner surface of the opening 220. The door light 225 may include an LED module 225b and a light case 225a that accommodates the LED module 225b. The light emitted from the LED module 225b passes through the light case 225a and is irradiated toward the inside of the opening 220, illuminating the inside of the opening 220.

Therefore, when the light door 22 is turned on, the inside of the opening 220 becomes bright, and even when the sub door 40 is closed, the light stored in the door basket 221 through the transparent part 421a Food can be identified.

When the door light 225 is turned off, the inside of the opening 220 becomes dark and the transparent part 421a may also become opaque so that the inside is not visible. At this time, the transparent portion 421a may appear opaque or appear like a mirror surface due to the glass 421 of the panel assembly 42. The transparent portion 421a refers to an area where the inside of the glass 421 is visible, and when an opaque bezel is formed around the glass 421, it may be defined as an inner area of the bezel.

Meanwhile, a gasket is mounted on the door liner 223, and the gasket may be formed along the perimeter of the door.

A cap deco 50 may be formed on the upper surface of the door 22. The cap decor 50 is combined with the door liner 223 and the out plate 222 to form the upper surface of the door 22. The inner space of the door 22 formed by the out plate 222, the door liner 223, and the cap decor 50 may be filled with an insulating material 224.

Meanwhile, the cap deco 50 may be formed of a plastic material, and a hinge mounting portion 502 on which a hinge for rotation of the door 22 is mounted may be recessed at one end.

Additionally, an upper receiving portion 501 that is recessed downward may be formed in the cap decor 50. The upper receiving portion 501 may be formed such that most of the space excluding the periphery of the cap decoration 50 is depressed downward.

A door opening device 52, a microphone module 53, a speaker module 55, and a voice module 56 can be accommodated inside the upper accommodating portion 501. Additionally, a door cover 51 may be provided to shield the open upper surface of the upper accommodating portion 501.

In detail, the door opening device 52 is configured to automatically open the door 22 in a closed state without the user directly pulling the door 22. The door opening device 52 may have various configurations, and usually includes a push rod 521 that selectively protrudes. When an opening signal is input, the push rod 521 may protrude, and the end of the push rod 521 pushes the cabinet 10 to open the door 22. Then, when the push rod 521 is retracted, the door 22 is rotated and closed by its own weight.

A rod opening 501a may be formed on one rear side of the upper receiving portion 501 facing the push rod 521. Therefore, when the door opening device 52 inside the door 22 operates, the push rod 521 passes through the rod opening 501a and pushes the cabinet 10 to open the door 22. can do.

The door opening device 52 can be operated by the user's voice input to the microphone module 53, and thus the door 22 can be opened and closed through the user's voice.

The door opening device 52 is used to position the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 close to the center of the refrigerator 1, that is, to the left of the upper accommodating portion 501. It can be arranged to be located on the inner right side of the unit 501.

The microphone module 53 is used to receive a user's voice for controlling the operation of the refrigerator 1, and can be mounted on the microphone mounting portion 511 formed on the door cover 51. The microphone module 53 may be in close contact with the lower surface of the door cover 51 and may be supported by the microphone supporter 54. A microphone hole 512 may be further formed in the microphone mounting unit 511, and the user's voice may flow into the microphone module 53 mounted inside the microphone mounting unit 511 through the microphone hole 512. You can.

The speaker module 55 is used to output sound, and outputs information that can be output as sound, such as information on the operating status of the refrigerator 1 or information requested by the user. The speaker module 55 may be located below the speaker mounting portion 514 formed on the door cover 51. Additionally, the speaker module 55 may also be fixedly mounted on the door cover 51.

The voice module 56 may be connected to the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55. The voice module 56 can process the voice input from the microphone module 53, and therefore the voice module 56 can be called a voice recognition PCB. The microphone module is formed separately from the voice module, and the microphone module can perform a function for voice processing, thereby minimizing and compacting the configuration of the microphone module 53. Through this structure, it is possible to minimize the space where the microphone module 53 is installed and minimize the part that protrudes to the outside. Meanwhile, the voice module 56 may be connected to the speaker module 55 and transmit an output voice signal to the speaker module 55.

The voice module 56 may be fixedly mounted on the inner bottom of the upper receiving portion 501. Additionally, the voice module 56 may be provided with a plurality of connectors 561, 562, 563, and 564. In detail, the connectors 561, 562, 563, and 564 include a first connector 562 and a second connector 563 connected to the microphone module 53, a third connector 561 connected to the speaker module 55, and a power supply. This may include a supplied fourth connector 564. Therefore, the speaker module 55 or the microphone module 53 can be simply separated and serviced or replaced as needed, and the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 depending on the model specifications of the refrigerator 1 ) becomes possible to use selectively.

The door cover 51 is formed in a plate shape corresponding to the opening of the upper accommodating part 501, and may be mounted to shield the upper accommodating part 501. The door cover 51 forms the upper surface of the door 22 when mounted on the cap decoration 50, and the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 can be fixedly mounted. That is, the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 are provided on the door 22, and can be mounted on the door cover 51 and suspended inside the upper accommodating portion 501. .

In particular, the microphone module 53 remains attached to the lower surface of the door cover 51, and noise flowing into the microphone module 53 can be minimized. For example, due to the nature of the operation of the refrigerator 1, noise and vibration from devices such as the compressor 12 constituting the refrigeration cycle are continuously generated during operation of the refrigeration cycle, and this vibration noise travels through the door 22 and into the microphone. This prevents it from being transmitted to the module 53.

Therefore, the microphone module 53 can be installed in a spaced state from the inside of the door 22 without being exposed by being mounted on the inside of the door 22, thereby generating noise when the refrigerator 1 operates. The impact can be minimized, and the recognition rate can be improved as a result.

In addition, the upper surface of the microphone module 53 is in complete contact with the inner surface of the door cover 51, so that the user's voice is not leaked in the process of heading to the microphone module 53 and is completely connected to the microphone module 53. The recognition rate can be improved further.

Hereinafter, the structures of the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 will be examined in more detail with reference to the drawings.

Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the combined structure of the cab door cover, speaker module, and microphone module according to an embodiment of the present invention. and. Figure 7 is a partially enlarged view of the microphone mounting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention. And, Figure 8 is a perspective view of the microphone mounting unit viewed from below. And, Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting structure of the microphone module.

As shown, a microphone mounting portion 511 may be formed on the door cover 51. The microphone mounting portion 511 includes a protrusion 511a that protrudes upward from the door cover 51, an inclined portion 511b formed at the front of the protruding portion 511a, and an end of the inclined portion 511b. It may include a depression 513.

The protruding part 511a is the most protruding part of the microphone mounting part 511 and may protrude parallel to the upper surface of the door cover 51. And a microphone mounting boss 517 may be formed at the lower part of the protrusion 511a. A pair of microphone mounting bosses 517 may be provided on both left and right sides, and may be inserted into the supporter through hole 546 of the microphone supporter 54. Then, the screw (S) fastened to the supporter through hole 546 is fastened so that the microphone supporter 54 can be fixedly mounted on the lower surface of the protrusion 511a.

The protruding height of the protruding part 511a may be formed at a height at which the microphone hole 512 can be formed in the inclined part 511b, and may have a height at which the microphone mounting part 511 is not visible as much as possible when viewed from the front. You can. For example, the protrusion 511a may be formed to have a height of 2 mm to 3 mm.

The inclined portion 511b may be formed at the front end of the microphone mounting portion 511 and have a slope that becomes lower as it extends forward. The inclined portion 511b may be formed to have an inclination of 30˚ to 50˚.

The inclined portion 511b is formed to have a predetermined width, and may have a corresponding size and shape so that the microphone module 53 can be closely attached to the rear surface. Additionally, a front rib 511c and a rear rib 511d for fixing the microphone module 53 may each protrude downward from the rear surface of the inclined portion 511b. The front rib 511c and the rear rib 511d may extend in the horizontal direction along the front and rear ends of the inclined portion 511b, respectively. Additionally, the microphone module 53 may be positioned between the front rib 511c and the rear rib 511d.

The microphone module 53 can be mounted in an accurate position by the front rib 511c and the rear rib 511d, and therefore the microphone hole 512 formed in the inclined portion 511b is used to position the microphone module 53. It can be aligned at a position corresponding to the microphone element 532.

The microphone hole 512 is mounted on the inclined portion 511b. The microphone hole 512 may be formed at a position corresponding to the center of the microphone element 53, so that the user's voice can be effectively input through the microphone hole 512. To this end, the microphone hole 512 is disposed on the same extension as the through hole 533a of the sealing member 533 and the substrate hole 531a formed in the microphone substrate 531, so that the user's voice is transmitted through the microphone. This ensures that it can be effectively transmitted to the element 532.

A pair of microphone holes 512 may be provided on both left and right sides. That is, a pair of microphone elements 532 corresponding to the microphone hole 512 are also provided, and voice passing through the pair of microphone holes 512 can be input.

Considering the general user's position, the pair of microphone holes 512 and the pair of microphone elements 532 are preferably formed on both sides with a distance of approximately 50 mm to 100 mm. Analysis and processing of the voice input to the microphone element 532 can be performed more effectively by a pair of microphone holes 512 spaced apart by a set distance, thereby improving the recognition rate.

A hole guide 512a may be formed around the microphone hole 512. The hole guide 512a may be formed to protrude along the circumference of the microphone hole 512, and the protruding height may decrease from top to bottom. Therefore, when dust or foreign matter falls from above, the hole guide 512a blocks the dust or foreign matter from directly entering the microphone hole 512, and the dust or foreign matter flows down into the depression 513. ) to be guided to.

In addition, the microphone hole 512 is formed on the inclined portion 511b, but the end of the hole guide 512a has a larger angle than the inclined portion 511b, so that the user's voice from the front is transmitted through the microphone hole. It can be delivered more effectively to (512).

In addition, the microphone hole 512 faces the front, and the hole guide 512a is formed around the microphone hole 512 so that the sound output from the speaker module 55 is directed to the microphone element 532. It can prevent re-introduction. And, preferably, the speaker mounting part 514 and the microphone mounting part 511 or the microphone hole 512 are positioned at a distance of at least 80 mm to 120 mm.

Meanwhile, the recessed portion 513 may be formed in front of the inclined portion 511b. The recessed portion 513 is formed to recess downward from the end of the inclined portion 511b so that dust or foreign matter falling from above can collect. Therefore, even if dust or foreign matter falls from above and accumulates on the upper surface of the door cover 51, it does not easily cover the microphone hole 512.

That is, dust or foreign matter flowing down along the inclined portion 511b is accommodated in the recessed portion 513 below the inclined portion 511b. Accordingly, after dust or foreign matter completely fills the recess 513, it does not cover the microphone hole 512 until further accumulation occurs, thereby maintaining the user's voice recognition performance.

Meanwhile, a speaker mounting portion 514 on which the speaker module 55 is mounted may be formed on the door cover 51. The speaker mounting portion 514 may be formed by one side of the door cover 51 being depressed downward. Additionally, the speaker module 55 may be mounted on the lower surface of the speaker mounting unit 514.

A speaker hole 515 may be formed in the center of the speaker mounting portion 514, and a border 515a may be formed around the speaker hole 515. The edge 515a may protrude but may be formed at a height that does not contact the speaker cover 57. The edge 515a prevents dust or foreign matter introduced into the speaker mounting unit 514 from entering the speaker module 55.

Meanwhile, the audio output unit 550 of the speaker module 55 is formed in the inner area of the edge 515a, that is, at a position corresponding to the speaker hole 515, and thus the audio output from the audio output unit 550 is formed. Sound can be output to the outside through the speaker hole 515 without leaking into the door 22.

Additionally, a pair of speaker mounting bosses 516 may be formed on the speaker mounting portion 514. The speaker mounting boss 516 may be formed on both sides of the speaker hole 515. Additionally, the speaker boss 572 extends downward and may extend to the speaker fastening portions 552 on both sides of the speaker module 55.

Additionally, the speaker cover 57 may be mounted on the speaker mounting portion 514. The speaker cover 57 may include a plate portion 571 and a speaker boss 572. The plate portion 571 is formed in a plate shape and has a shape corresponding to the speaker mounting portion 514, but may be formed in a somewhat smaller size. Accordingly, when the speaker cover 57 is mounted on the speaker mounting portion 514, the perimeter of the speaker mounting portion 514 and the perimeter of the speaker cover 57 are spaced apart from each other, and the space between the spaced spaces is a speaker module ( 55), the voice output may be leaked.

A speaker boss 572 extending downward may be formed on the lower surface of the speaker cover 57. The speaker boss 572 may extend through the speaker mounting boss 516 to the speaker fastening portion 552. In addition, the screw (S) fastened to the speaker fastening portion 552 is fastened to the speaker boss 572 so that the speaker cover 57 and the speaker module 55 are fixedly mounted on the door cover 51. It can be done as much as possible.

Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the microphone module.

Looking at the microphone module 53 with reference to the drawings, the microphone module 53 may include a microphone substrate 531, a microphone element 532, and a sealing member 533. The microphone module 53 includes at least a microphone element 532 and may be called a microphone.

In detail, the microphone board 531 is intended to allow the microphone element 532 to be mounted and supported at a certain distance, allowing the microphone element 532 to be placed at a certain distance.

Meanwhile, the microphone elements 532 have a structure in which a pair is arranged left and right. Of course, the microphone elements 532 may be provided in two or more pieces, but when placing multiple microphone elements 532, the installation space increases and the manufacturing cost increases, so two microphone elements 532 are used. ) would be desirable to be provided.

A pair of microphone elements 532 are disposed on both left and right sides, thereby improving the recognition rate. In detail, when a pair of microphone elements 532 are placed on both sides, the user's voice can be received by both microphone elements 532, and thus the voice input to each microphone element 532 is converted into a signal and transmitted to each other. Comparative analysis can be performed and noise can be removed more effectively. Therefore, a significantly improved voice recognition rate can be expected compared to when only one microphone element 532 is disposed.

In addition, since the microphone elements 532 are disposed on both left and right sides, a difference occurs in the intensity of sound input to each pair of microphone elements 532, through which it is possible to determine the location where the sound is input. That is, if the user is positioned in front of the refrigerator 1 to use the refrigerator 1, the difference in the intensity of sound input to the microphone elements 532 on both sides becomes relatively small, and the difference in the intensity of sound input to the microphone elements 532 on both sides becomes relatively small, and ) Sound input from a location other than the front, such as a side or diagonal direction, is greatly different from the microphone elements 532 on both sides.

Therefore, the location of the input sound, that is, the user's location, can be determined using the pair of microphone elements 532, and the voice recognition rate can be increased by amplifying the sound generated at the location determined to be the user. According to the same principle, even if many sounds are input at the same time, the voice of the user in front of the refrigerator 1 can be accurately found and recognized, thereby improving the reliability of voice recognition performance.

Meanwhile, substrate holes 531a penetrating the microphone substrate 531 may be formed on both sides of the microphone substrate 531. The substrate hole 531a may be formed at a position corresponding to the microphone element 532 and has a structure that allows the user's voice to be transmitted to the microphone element 532. In addition, the microphone substrate 531 may be formed in a plate shape extending long in the horizontal direction so that it can be mounted on the inclined portion 511b of the microphone mounting portion 511.

In addition, a microphone connector 534 is provided at the center of the lower surface of the microphone board 531, and the microphone connector 534 protrudes downward (in a direction away from the cap decoration) and connects the connector hole of the microphone supporter 54 ( 545) Can be inserted medially. Therefore, the first connector 562 and the second connector 563 of the voice module 56 and the microphone connector 534 can be connected to each other without interference from the microphone supporter 54 by a harness with connectors connected to both ends. I do it.

The microphone element 532 is a part where voice is input, and may be mounted on both sides of the lower surface of the microphone board 531. The microphone element 532 allows the user's voice to be input at a position corresponding to the microphone hole 512 when the microphone module 53 is mounted. Additionally, the microphone element 532 may be of various structures capable of allowing a user's voice input. Of course, the microphone element 532 may be used as a variety of devices capable of receiving voice input, and therefore the microphone element 532 may be called a microphone or a microphone device.

In addition, the microphone element 532 is located on the lower surface of the microphone substrate 531, and is located at a position corresponding to the substrate hole 531a of the microphone substrate 531 and the through hole 533a of the sealing member 533. can be formed in Accordingly, the voice flowing in from the microphone hole 512 passes through the through hole 533a and the substrate hole 531a in order to flow into the microphone element 532.

In addition, both the microphone element 532 and the microphone connector 534 may be provided on the lower surface of the microphone board 531, and therefore the upper surface of the microphone board 531 is formed in a flat shape to form the cover 51. It has a structure that allows it to be in close contact with the lower surface of the microphone mounting unit 511.

Meanwhile, the sealing member 533 may be formed in a sheet shape and placed on the upper surface of the microphone substrate 531. Accordingly, the microphone substrate 531 can be brought into close contact between the inclined portions 511b of the microphone mounting portion 511 by the sealing member 533.

The sealing member 533 completely airtightens the space between the upper surface of the microphone substrate 531 and the lower surface of the inclined portion 511b so that sound coming from the outside does not leak between the substrate and the door cover 51 and all It can be directed to the microphone element 532.

In addition, if the space between the microphone board 531 and the door cover 51 is completely airtight by the sealing member 533, noise, vibration, shock, etc. generated inside the upper door 20 may be caused. Noise can also be prevented from entering.

Additionally, adhesive tape or double-sided tape may be used as the sealing member 533. When the sealing member 533 is made of an adhesive material, the microphone module 53 can be substantially attached and fixed to the microphone mounting unit 511. Therefore, the sealing member 533 may be called an adhesive member or a fixing member.

Through holes 533a are formed on both sides of the sealing member 533, and the through holes 533a may be disposed on the same extension line as the microphone element 532 and the substrate hole 531a. Accordingly, the sealing member 533 can not only secure the microphone module 53 but also form a passage through which voice is transmitted to the microphone element 532.

Additionally, the sealing member 533 may be formed of an elastic material to effectively cushion shock or vibration generated when opening and closing the upper door 20 due to the characteristics of the usage environment of the upper door 20. Additionally, vibration or shock generated in the cabinet 10 and transmitted to the microphone module 53 during operation of the refrigerator 1 can be further alleviated.

Meanwhile, the sealing member 533 may be formed by applying an adhesive to the substrate 531 as long as it does not cover or block the substrate hole 531a. Of course, if close contact and support performance are guaranteed by the microphone supporter 54, the sealing member 533 is omitted, and the upper surface of the substrate 531 has a structure in close contact with the lower surface of the inclined portion 511a. It may be possible.

In this way, regardless of the material and structure of the sealing member 533, the space between the substrate 531 and the door cover 51 is completely airtight. As a result, the path leading to the microphone element 532 can be formed only by the path formed by the microphone hole 512 and the substrate hole 531a. Therefore, external voices are directed to the microphone element 532 at the shortest distance without leakage, and noise inside the door 22 or transmitted through the cabinet 10 is also prevented from flowing into the microphone element 532. It can be blocked fundamentally.

Figure 11 is a perspective view of a microphone supporter according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawing, the microphone supporter 54 is mounted on the door cover 51 so that the microphone module 53 can be closely fixed to the inclined portion 511b of the door cover 51. Additionally, the upper surface of the microphone supporter 54 may include a mounting surface 541 and a support surface 542.

The mounting surface 541 is a part for mounting the microphone supporter 54 and may be formed parallel to the lower surface of the door cover 51, or more specifically, the lower surface of the protrusion 511a. Additionally, a pair of supporter through holes 546 may be formed on both sides of the mounting surface 541 to penetrate the microphone supporter 54 in the vertical direction. The screw (S) may be fastened below the supporter through hole 546 and fastened to the microphone mounting boss 517.

The support surface 542 is formed at the front end of the mounting surface 541 and has a slope that decreases toward the front. The support surface 542 may be formed to a size on which the microphone module 53 can be seated, and may be formed to have an inclination corresponding to the inclined portion 511b of the microphone mounting unit 511. Accordingly, the microphone module 53 may be disposed between the inclined portion 511b and the support surface 542.

Additionally, an upper rib 543 in contact with the rear rib 511d may be formed at the rear end of the support surface 542. Additionally, a lower rib 544 in contact with the front rib 511c may be provided at the front end of the support surface 542.

The lower rib 544 has a predetermined height and may form a border 515a extending upward along a portion of the front and side surfaces of the microphone supporter 54. Therefore, when the microphone supporter 54 is mounted, the front rib 511c and the rear rib 511d are located between the upper rib 543 and the lower rib 544, and the microphone mounting portion 511 A depression 513 may also be inserted into the space between the support surface 542 and the lower rib 544.

With this structure, the microphone supporter 54 can be mounted in an accurate position, and the guide structure of the plurality of ribs 511c, 511d, 543, and 544 guides the microphone supporter 54 so that it can be mounted in an accurate position. I do it. Through this structure, the perimeter of the microphone module 53 can be further airtightened, and the microphone module 53 can be more effectively adhered to the door cover 51.

Meanwhile, a connector hole 545 may be formed in the center of the microphone supporter 54. When the microphone module 53 is mounted on the support surface 542, the microphone connector 534 may be exposed downward through the connector hole 545. Accordingly, while the microphone module 53 is fixedly mounted on the door cover 51, the microphone module 53 can be connected to the voice module 56 by wire.

Figure 12 is a cutaway cross-sectional view showing the combined structure of the microphone module and the microphone supporter. And, Figure 13 is a partial enlarged view showing the combined state of the microphone module and microphone supporter.

Looking at the mounting structure of the microphone module 53 in detail with reference to the drawings, the microphone module 53 is mounted on the support surface 542 of the microphone supporter 54. At this time, the microphone connector 534 is located inside the connector hole 545.

Then, the microphone supporter 54 on which the microphone module 53 is seated is placed on the microphone mounting portion 511. At this time, the mounting surface 541 of the microphone supporter 54 is located on the lower surface of the protrusion 511a of the microphone mounting part 511. In addition, the screw S is fastened below the microphone supporter 54, passes through the supporter through hole 546, and may be fastened to the microphone mounting boss 517.

In a state in which the screw (S) is fastened, the upper rib 543 and the lower rib 544 are formed on the outside of the front rib 511c and the rear rib 511d, respectively. ) can be combined with each other to come into contact with each other. Accordingly, the microphone supporter 54 can be located at an accurate position, which allows the microphone element 532 of the microphone module 53 and the microphone hole 512 to be aligned with each other.

In particular, by fastening the screw S, the microphone supporter 54 can press the substrate 531 from below the substrate 531 toward the lower surface of the door cover 51, and the substrate 531 ) can be in closer contact with the lower surface of the door cover 51.

And, the microphone module 53 is located in the space between the front rib 511c and the rear rib 511d. In addition, the sealing member 533 of the microphone module 53 seals the space between the microphone voice module 56 and the lower surface of the inclined portion 511b.

When the screw (S) for mounting the microphone supporter 54 is fully tightened, the microphone supporter 54 presses the microphone module 53 to the lower surface of the inclined portion 511b. Accordingly, the sealing member 533 is compressed to airtightly seal the space between the microphone voice module 56 and the back of the inclined portion 511b, and the substrate 531 is maintained even when the door 22 is frequently opened and closed. ) and the door cover 51 are separated, or the alignment of the microphone hole 512 and the substrate hole 531a is prevented from being damaged.

Therefore, under any circumstances, the voice flowing into the microphone hole 512 can be completely transmitted to the microphone element 532 without leakage. In addition, unnecessary noise is prevented from flowing into the microphone element 532.

Meanwhile, the microphone hole 512 may be formed so that its diameter becomes wider as it approaches the microphone element 532 from the open upper surface. Accordingly, the voice flowing into the microphone hole 512 can be effectively transmitted to the microphone element 532, and the generation of noise can be minimized.

Hereinafter, the mounting structure of the speaker module 55 will be examined in more detail with reference to the drawings.

Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the mounting structure of the speaker module.

As shown, the speaker module may be placed on the lower surface of the speaker mounting unit 514. At this time, an audio output unit 550 that outputs audio is disposed on the speaker module 55 facing the speaker hole 515, and an output unit guide 551 is provided around the audio output unit 550. It can be. The output unit guide 551 may be formed to contact the outer end of the edge 515a formed on the speaker mounting unit 514. Accordingly, the speaker module 55 can be mounted at an accurate position and allows the sound output from the audio output unit 550 to completely pass through the speaker hole 515 and be transmitted to the outside.

The speaker cover 57 is located inside the speaker mounting portion 514, and the speaker boss 572 is mounted to penetrate the speaker mounting boss 516. In addition, the screw (S) that penetrates the speaker fastening part 552 and is fastened from below is combined with the speaker boss 572 to enable simultaneous fixation of the speaker cover 57 and the speaker module 55.

The speaker cover 57 may be positioned on the same plane as the top surface of the door cover 51 and the cap decoration 50 when installed. In addition, sound output to the speaker module 55 may leak between the speaker hole 515 and the speaker cover 57 between the perimeter of the speaker cover 57 and the speaker mounting portion 514. there is.

Hereinafter, we will look at the operation of the refrigerator 1 having the above structure.

Figure 15 is a block diagram showing the control signal flow of the refrigerator.

As shown in the figure, the refrigerator 1 operates the refrigeration cycle, including the compressor 12, under the control of the main control unit 11 to cool the interior of the refrigerator. The main control unit 11 controls the overall operation of the refrigerator and may be called a main controller, main PCB, or control unit.

To operate the refrigerator 1, the user directly operates the display 24 or the auxiliary display 231 of the refrigerator 1. Additionally, the temperature of the refrigerator 1 can be manipulated or the performance of a specific function can be manipulated through the user's manipulation input. Additionally, operations such as dispensing water or ice through the dispenser 23 or turning the door light 225 on and off for viewing through the sub door 40 are possible.

Meanwhile, in remote locations where the user cannot use both hands or where direct operation of the refrigerator 1 is difficult, the operation of the refrigerator 1 may be controlled by recognizing the user's voice.

For example, when the user speaks a set trigger voice in front of the refrigerator 1, the voice recognition mode is activated by the microphone module 53 and the voice module 56, and then the user controls the operation of the refrigerator 1. You will enter a voice command for . When a user issues a command, the voice signal input through the microphone module 53 is processed by the voice module 56 and then transmitted to the main control unit 11 to control a specific operation of the refrigerator.

Examples of functions operated by the user's voice are as follows.

The user can check the operating status of the refrigerator 1 by turning the display 24 of the refrigerator 1 on and off using a voice command. In addition, the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 13 in the refrigerator can be output to the display 24, and the user can control the temperature of the refrigerator and freezer by voice or operate them in a desired state by referring to the output temperature. You can.

Also, the user can turn the door light 225 on and off by the user's voice command. When the door light 225 is turned on and off, the sub door 40 can be selectively transparent and opaque, and when the door light 225 is turned on, the transparent portion 421a of the sub door 40 is visible. It is visualized so that the inside of the door basket 221 can be identified even when the sub door 40 is closed.

Additionally, the user can operate the dispenser 23 using the user's voice command. Water or ice can be dispensed by the user's voice command. Then, when the user inputs the desired amount of water by voice by adjusting the dispenser valve 231, the dispenser valve 231 and the dispenser 23 can perform a set operation to dispense a set amount of water. .

In addition, it is also possible to select the ice state of the ice maker 25 and take it out through the user's voice. For example, when the user selects an ice state such as pieced ice or regular ice, the ice maker 25 or the moving device 251 provided in the ice bank where the ice is stored performs a set operation so that the ice in the selected state is dispensed from the dispenser ( It can be taken out through 23).

In addition, various operation information, including changes in the operation state or setting status of the refrigerator 1, may be output on the screen through the display 24 or the auxiliary display 231, and a voice may be output through the speaker module 55. It may also be printed.

In addition, the speaker module 55 can guide the user by outputting a voice to determine whether the user's voice input has been made correctly, as well as driving information, and guide the user to input an accurate voice command to the refrigerator 1. do.

Meanwhile, the microphone module 53 can be mounted in various positions of the refrigerator 1. Hereinafter, various examples of arrangement of the microphone module 53 will be examined in detail with reference to the drawings. The microphone module described below differs from the above-described microphone module 53 only in the mounting location, and the structure of the microphone module 53 itself is the same, so the structure of the microphone module 53 itself will be omitted.

Figure 16 is a diagram showing the microphone module disposed in the dispenser.

As shown in the drawing, a dispenser 23 may be provided on the front of the door 22. The dispenser 23 has a recessed space through which water or ice is dispensed, and an auxiliary display 231 that displays the operating state of the refrigerator 1 may be provided above the recessed space.

The dispenser 23 and the auxiliary display 231 may be composed of one module and may be mounted on the front of the door 22. A microphone module 53a may be provided on one side of the dispenser 23 where the auxiliary display 231 is located. The microphone module 53a formed adjacent to the auxiliary display 231 may be said to be located in the dispenser 23 because it is located in a part of the dispenser 23.

The microphone module 53a may have the same structure as described above, but may be configured to be in close contact with the back of the auxiliary display 231. Additionally, a pair of microphone holes 231a may be formed on one side of the auxiliary display 231 corresponding to the position of the microphone element 532 of the microphone module 53a. The microphone hole 231a may be open toward the front, and may be placed adjacent to the recessed space 230 of the dispenser 23 so that it is not easily visible to the user.

The microphone module 53a may be located inside the recessed space of the dispenser 23 as well as the auxiliary display 231. At this time, the microphone module 53a and the microphone hole 231a are located inside the recessed space 230, so they may not be exposed to the user.

Figure 17 is a diagram showing the microphone module disposed between doors.

As shown, the doors 20 are located on both left and right sides, and when the doors 20 on both left and right sides are closed, a predetermined space may be formed between the doors 20.

Additionally, the microphone module 53b may be placed on the front 101 of the cabinet 10 corresponding to the space between the doors. The microphone module 53b may be mounted inside the cabinet 10 and may be placed in close contact with the inner surface of the cabinet 10. Additionally, a microphone hole 101a may be formed in the front 101 of the cabinet 10 corresponding to the position of the microphone element 532 of the microphone module 53b.

Since the left and right widths between the pair of doors 20 are narrow, the microphone module 53b can be formed to be long up and down. Also, the pair of microphone elements 532 and the microphone hole 101a may be arranged in the vertical direction. Accordingly, the microphone hole 101a can be exposed to the outside through the door 20 and between the doors 20, thereby facilitating the reception of voice signals.

Of course, the part on the front of the cabinet 10 where the microphone module 53b is mounted is a part spaced apart from the door 20, so the microphone module 53b is arranged horizontally as in the examples above, It would also be possible for the microphone element 532 and the microphone hole 101a to be arranged horizontally.

Additionally, if a barrier (not shown) is provided to partition the interior space of the cabinet 10 to the left and right, the microphone module 53b may be placed in front of the barrier.

Figure 18 is a diagram showing the microphone module disposed on the hinge cover.

As shown, the door 20 has a structure rotatably connected to the cabinet 10 by a hinge device 26. Additionally, the hinge device 26 may include a hinge cover 261 that covers components including the hinge disposed therein.

The hinge cover 261 may be located on the top of the cabinet 10 and the door 20, and may have a structure exposed to the outside. Additionally, the hinge cover 261 may be provided with a microphone module 53c.

The microphone module 53c may be mounted on the inner surface of the hinge cover 261. Additionally, a microphone hole 261a may be formed on the outer surface of the hinge cover corresponding to the position where the microphone module 53c is mounted.

The pair of microphone holes 261a may be formed at positions corresponding to the pair of microphone elements 532. The microphone hole 261a may be formed to face upward. Of course, if necessary, a structure such as a microphone mounting portion 511 may be further formed on the upper surface of the hinge cover 261, and the microphone hole 261a may be formed to face forward.

Since the microphone module 53c is mounted on the hinge cover 261, the microphone hole 261a can be hidden from the user when viewed from the front. Additionally, the microphone module 53c can be easily serviced by removing the hinge cover 261. Also, it is possible to facilitate the arrangement of electric wires along the hinge cover 261.

Figure 19 is a diagram showing the microphone module disposed on the upper cap decor.

As shown in the drawing, the microphone module 53d may be provided inside the upper cap decor 51. At this time, the microphone module 53d may be in close contact with the upper surface of the upper cap decoration 51, and a pair of microphone holes 51a are formed in the upper cap decoration 51 corresponding to the microphone module 53d. It can be. The pair of microphone holes 51a may be located at positions corresponding to the pair of microphone elements 532 disposed in the microphone module 53d.

Meanwhile, the microphone hole 51a may be opened upward, and therefore, the microphone hole 51a may not be visible at all when the user views it from the front of the refrigerator 1.

Additionally, the mounting location of the microphone module 53d and the location of the microphone hole 51a may be formed at a location close to the center of the left and right sides of the door 20 or the entire center of the cabinet 10.

Figure 20 is a diagram showing the microphone module disposed on the front of the door.

As shown, the outer surface of the door 20 may be formed by an outer case 201. The outer case 201 may be made of various materials such as metal and plastic. Additionally, a microphone module 53e may be provided on the front of the outer case 201.

The microphone module 53e is located inside the door 20 and may be in close contact with the inner surface of the portion forming the front of the outer case 201. Additionally, a microphone hole 201a may be opened in the outer case 201. The microphone holes 201a are formed in pairs spaced apart from each other to the left and right, and may be formed at positions corresponding to the pair of microphone elements 532 located in the microphone module 53e.

The location of the microphone module 53e and the microphone hole 201a may be located in the front of the door 20, but may be formed close to the perimeter of the door 20. Accordingly, the microphone hole 201a may not be easily visible to the user, and may be formed in a position adjacent to the bottom and far from the user's line of sight.

Figure 21 is a view showing the microphone module disposed on the handle.

As shown in the drawing, a handle 325 that is recessed inward may be provided on one side of the door 20. In this embodiment, the handle 325 provided on the lower door 20 is described as an example, but the microphone module 53f may be provided on the handle of all doors regardless of the location or structure of the door.

The handle 325 may form a recessed handle groove 324, and may be injection-molded from a plastic material and assembled to the door 20. Additionally, a microphone module 53f may be mounted on the handle 325. The microphone module 53f may be placed inside the door 20 and may be mounted in close contact with the outer surface of the handle 325, that is, the surface forming the handle groove 324.

Additionally, a pair of microphone holes 325a may be formed on one side of the handle 325. The microphone hole 325a may be formed at a position corresponding to the microphone element 532 of the microphone module 53f and may be formed inside the handle groove 324. Accordingly, the microphone module 53f and the microphone hole 325a may not be exposed when viewed from the outside.

Meanwhile, the microphone module 53f may be formed at any position inside the handle groove 324, but if possible, it is formed at a position other than the position where the user puts his hand to open the door 20. It would be desirable. For example, if it is located close to the outer end where the rotation axis of the door 20 is located, the user's hand cannot easily reach it, and therefore the microphone hole 325a is clogged or contaminated due to frequent contact with the user's hand. can be prevented.

Figure 12 is a diagram showing the microphone module disposed at the bottom of the door.

As shown in the drawing, the exterior of the lower door 32 may be formed by an outer case 321. The outer case 321 may be formed in a plate shape and forms the exterior including the front of the lower door 32.

A microphone module 53g may be provided at the bottom of the outer case 321, that is, at the front bottom of the lower door 32. The microphone module 53g may be provided inside the lower door 32 and may be configured to be in close contact with the front of the outer case 321.

A pair of microphone holes 321b may be formed in the outer case 321. The microphone hole 321b may be located at a position corresponding to the pair of microphone elements 532 provided in the microphone module 53g. and. Since the microphone module 53g and the microphone hole 321b are located at the bottom of the lower door 32, they may not be clearly visible when the user stands in front of the refrigerator.

Meanwhile, the outer case 321 may be bent to form an inclined surface 321a at the front bottom of the lower door 32. Additionally, the microphone module 53g and the microphone hole 321b may be located on the inclined surface 321a. When the microphone hole 321b is placed on the inclined surface 321a, the microphone hole 321b can be made more inconspicuous to the user.

In this embodiment, the lower door 32 among the doors 21 and 32 arranged up and down is taken as an example. However, when the doors are arranged on both left and right sides, the microphone is installed at the bottom of one of the doors on both left and right sides. The module 53g may be disposed and the microphone hole 321b may be formed.

Figure 23 is a diagram showing the microphone module disposed on the lower cap decor.

As shown in the drawing, a lower cap decoration 322 may be provided at the bottom of the lower door 32. The lower cap decor 322 forms the lower surface of the lower door 32, and may be mounted on the lower door 32 and formed at a position facing the ground. The lower cap decor 322 may be injection-molded from a plastic material, and is combined with the outer case 321 that forms the exterior of the lower door 32 to form the lower surface of the lower door 32.

A microphone module 53h may be mounted on the lower surface of the lower cap decor 322. The microphone module 53h may be provided inside the lower door 32 and may be in close contact with the inner surface of the lower cap decor 322. Therefore, the microphone module 53h is not exposed to the outside.

Additionally, a pair of microphone holes 323a may be formed in the lower cap decor 322. The microphone hole 323a may be located at a position corresponding to a pair of microphone elements 532 provided in the microphone module 53h.

Meanwhile, a microphone module mounting portion 323 protruding downward may be further formed on the lower cap decor 322. Additionally, the microphone module 53h may be mounted inside the microphone module mounting portion 323. At this time, the microphone hole 323a may be formed on the front of the microphone module mounting portion 323 and pointed forward.

The microphone module mounting portion 323 has a protruding structure, but is located on the lower surface of the lower door 32 close to the ground so that it is difficult to reach the user's line of sight, thereby minimizing exposure of the microphone hole 323a. can do.

In addition, in this embodiment, the lower door 32 disposed at the lower part of the doors disposed up and down is taken as an example. However, even when the door is disposed left and right, a lower cap decoration is provided at the bottom, and the lower cap decoration is provided. The microphone module 53h may be provided and a microphone hole 323a may be formed.

The refrigerator refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may have various other embodiments in addition to the above-described embodiments.

In another embodiment of the present invention, it relates to a structure in which a single door opens and closes one space. There is a difference in the thickness of the door and the structure of the cap decoration, and since the other configurations are the same, the same reference numerals are used for the same configuration and the detailed The explanation will be omitted.

Figure 24 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The refrigerator 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet 60 forming a storage space and doors 61 and 62 that open and close the cabinet 60.

The storage space of the cabinet 60 may be divided upper and lower into an upper storage space 11 and a lower storage space 12, and the divided upper and lower spaces may be maintained at substantially different temperatures. Additionally, the door may include an upper door 62 that opens and closes the upper storage space, and at least one lower door 61 that opens and closes the lower storage space.

The upper door 62 is rotatably mounted on the cabinet 60 and can be configured to open and close the upper storage space 11 by rotation. Accordingly, the upper door 62 may be called a rotary door or a rotating door. In addition, the lower door 61 is mounted on the cabinet 60 to be retractable and can be configured to open and close the lower storage space 12 by retracting and retracting. Therefore, the lower door 61 may be called a drawer door or drawer door. The lower door 61 may be composed of a plurality of doors. Additionally, the lower door 61 may be arranged up and down and may be composed of an upper drawer door 30a and a lower drawer door 30b.

The upper door 62 has the sub door 40 rotatably mounted on the central opening 201. The sub door 40 may be formed at least in part to be transparent so that the interior can be seen. Although not shown in detail, the sub door 40 may be configured to be insulated by a plurality of glass panels, and may be configured to have a transparent display inside to enable screen output. Additionally, the sub door 40 can be selectively changed from transparent to opaque according to the user's manipulation. Accordingly, the interior of the upper storage space 11 can be selectively visible or invisible.

The front of the sub-door 40 may be formed by a front panel 421, and the front panel 421 forms most of the front area of the sub-door 40, substantially forming the sub-door 40. ) Most of the area inside the upper storage space 11 can be seen.

A display 24 may be provided at the bottom of the opening 201. Additionally, the display 24 is configured to be visible from the outside through the sub door 40. The display 24 may output the operating status or setting status of the refrigerator 1. The display 24 may especially output the operation setting status of the lower door 61.

For example, the lifting state of the lower door 61 or the setting state for lifting can be displayed. That is, if the lower door 61 is in a state in which withdrawal and lifting operations are possible by the user's voice input, this can be output. In addition, if the lower door 61 is in a state in which withdrawal and lifting operations are possible through the user's direct manipulation of the operation units 301 and 302, this can be output. In addition, if only one of the pulling in and out or raising and lowering of the lower door 61 can be operated through voice input through the display 24, this may be output.

In addition, the lower door 61 may output a state in which a withdrawal operation is in progress or an operation has been completed, and the lower door 61 may output a state in which a lifting operation is in progress or an operation has been completed.

Figure 25 is a perspective view of the upper door. And, Figure 26 is an exploded perspective view showing the upper coupling structure of the refrigerator and the upper door.

A main control unit 11 may be provided on the upper surface of the door cabinet 60, and a door opening device 63 may be provided on a side of the main control unit 11. The door opening device 63 is configured to allow the push rod 631 to be pulled out and retracted, and when the push rod 631 is pulled out or protruded, the rear of the upper door 62 can be pushed and opened. And, when the push rod 631 is retracted, the upper door 62 is closed by its own weight.

The main control unit 11 and the door opening device 63 are mounted on the top end of the cabinet 60. In addition, on the upper surface of the cabinet 60, there is a main case 12 that accommodates not only the main control unit 11 and the door opening device 63, but also the hinge device 14 for opening and closing the upper door 62. It can be included.

The main control unit 11 may be connected to the door opening device 63 and may be configured to operate the door opening device 63 when a user inputs a voice command. In other words, the door opening device 63 can be operated by the user's voice without operating a separate button or the like.

Meanwhile, in another embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the upper door 62 is relatively thin, and therefore the door opening device 63, which is relatively large in size, cannot be placed on the cap deco 70. It is mounted on the cabinet 60 and is configured to push and rotate the upper door 62.

By arranging the door opening device 63 on the side of the cabinet 60, the door 62 can be made slim, and the insulation loss of the upper door 62 can be minimized even in a slim structure. .

The appearance of the upper door 62 may be formed by combining an out plate 621, which forms the exterior including the front, and a door liner (not shown), which forms the back, and the out plate 621 and the door The space between the liners may be filled with insulation. Additionally, a cap decoration 70 may be provided on the upper surface of the upper door 62.

A microphone mounting portion 511 on which a microphone module 53 for receiving a user's voice is mounted may protrude from the upper surface of the upper door 62. The microphone module 53 may be accommodated in the inner space of the cap decor 70. Additionally, the space of the cap decoration 70 may be shielded by the cover 71. The microphone mounting portion 511 may be formed on the cover 71.

Additionally, the microphone mounting unit 511 may be placed in an area between the left and right ends of the upper door 62. Accordingly, it is possible to recognize more effectively when the user speaks in the center of the refrigerator 1.

Due to the nature of its shape, the microphone mounting portion 511 becomes virtually invisible when viewed from the front. Since the height of the refrigerator is usually greater than the user's height, the microphone mounting portion 511 is not visible to the user in a normal use environment.

In addition, the microphone mounting portion 511 may include a protruding portion 511a, an inclined portion 511b, and a recessed portion 513, and the microphone hole 512 may be located on the inclined portion 511b. You can. Therefore, even if the user is away from the refrigerator 1, the microphone mounting unit 511 and the microphone hole 512 located in the microphone mounting unit 511 have a structure that is not easily visible.

In this way, the microphone mounting unit 511 can have a position and structure that ensures a high recognition rate while minimizing external exposure. Hereinafter, the structure of the microphone mounting unit 511 and the microphone module 53 will be examined in more detail.

Figure 27 is an exploded perspective view showing the combined structure of the cover mounted on the top of the upper door, the speaker module, and the microphone module.

A cap deco 70 may be formed on the upper surface of the door 22. The cap decor 70 is combined with the door liner and the out plate 621 to form the upper surface of the door 22. The inner space of the door 22 formed by the out plate 621, the door liner, and the cap decor 70 may be filled with an insulating material.

Additionally, an upper receiving portion 701 that is depressed downward may be formed in the cap decor 70. The upper receiving portion 701 may be formed by collapsing most of the space except for the periphery of the cap decoration 70 downward.

A microphone module 53, a speaker module 55, and a voice module 56 can be accommodated inside the upper accommodating portion 701. Additionally, a cover 71 may be provided to shield the open upper surface of the upper accommodating portion 701.

The microphone module 53 is used to receive a user's voice for controlling the operation of the refrigerator 1, and may be mounted on the microphone mounting portion 511 formed on the cover 71. The microphone module 53 may be in close contact with the lower surface of the cover 71 and may be supported by the microphone supporter 54. A microphone hole 512 may be further formed in the microphone mounting unit 511, and the user's voice may flow into the microphone module 53 mounted inside the microphone mounting unit 511 through the microphone hole 512. You can.

The speaker module 55 is used to output sound, and outputs information that can be output as sound, such as information on the operating status of the refrigerator 1 or information requested by the user. The speaker module 55 may be located below the speaker mounting portion 514 formed on the cover 71. Additionally, the speaker module 55 may also be fixedly mounted on the cover 71.

The voice module 56 may be connected to the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55. The voice module 56 can recognize a voice by receiving a voice signal input from the microphone module 53. Therefore, the voice module 56 can be called a voice recognition PCB.

The voice module 56 can convert the voice signal input from the microphone module 53 and transmit it to a remote server. Therefore, the voice module 56 can be formed to the minimum size for signal processing inside the upper door 62, where space is very narrow, and the voice module 56 is installed in the upper door 62. The space for placement can be minimized. In other words, through this configuration of the microphone module 53, the loss of the insulation space of the upper door 62 can be minimized, and the size of the sub-door 40 can be made as large as possible to make the interior space more visible. can do.

Meanwhile, the voice module 56 may be connected to the speaker module 55 to process an output signal and transmit it to the speaker module 55.

The voice module 56 may be fixedly mounted on the inner bottom of the upper receiving portion 701. Additionally, the voice module 56 may be provided with a plurality of connectors 561, 562, 563, and 564. In detail, the connectors 561, 562, 563, and 564 include a first connector 562 and a second connector 563 respectively connected to the pair of microphone modules 53, and a third connector 561 connected to the speaker module 55. , and may include a fourth connector 564 to which power is supplied. Therefore, the speaker module 55 or the microphone module 53 can be simply separated and serviced or replaced as needed, and the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 depending on the model specifications of the refrigerator 1 ) becomes possible to use selectively.

The cover 71 is formed in a plate shape corresponding to the opening of the upper accommodating part 701, and may be mounted to shield the upper accommodating part 701. The cover 71 forms the upper surface of the upper door 62 when mounted on the cap decoration 70, and the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 can be fixedly mounted. That is, the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 are provided on the upper door 62, and can be mounted on the cover 71 and suspended inside the upper receiving portion 701. .

In particular, the microphone module 53 remains attached to the lower surface of the cover 71, and noise flowing into the microphone module 53 can be minimized. For example, due to the nature of the operation of the refrigerator 1, noise and vibration from devices such as the compressor 12 constituting the refrigeration cycle are continuously generated during operation of the refrigeration cycle, and this vibration noise travels through the door 22 and into the microphone. This prevents it from being transmitted to the module 53.

Accordingly, the microphone module 53 is mounted on the inside of the upper door 62 so that it is not exposed, but can be mounted in a state spaced apart from the inside of the upper door 62, causing noise when the refrigerator 1 is operated. The influence of noise can be minimized, thereby improving the recognition rate.

Meanwhile, a cover 71 may be mounted on the cap decor 70. The cover 71 can shield the opening of the upper accommodating part 701 and allows the microphone module 53 and the speaker module 55 to be fixedly mounted. For this purpose, the microphone mounting portion 511 and the microphone mounting portion 511 may be formed on the cover 71.

Figure 28 is a block diagram showing the control signal flow of the refrigerator.

The refrigerator 1 operates the refrigeration cycle, including the compressor 602, under the control of the main control unit 11 to cool the interior of the refrigerator. The main control unit 11 controls the overall operation of the refrigerator and may be configured to control overall electrical components inside the refrigerator and receive signals from various sensors. The main control unit 11 may be called a main PCB or control unit.

To operate the refrigerator 1, the user directly operates the display 24 of the refrigerator 1 or the operation units 301 and 302 provided on the door or cabinet. Additionally, the temperature of the refrigerator 1 can be manipulated or the performance of a specific function can be manipulated through the user's manipulation input.

Meanwhile, in remote locations where the user cannot use both hands or where direct operation of the refrigerator 1 is difficult, the operation of the refrigerator 1 may be controlled by recognizing the user's voice.

For example, when the user speaks a set trigger voice in front of the refrigerator 1, the voice recognition mode is activated by the microphone module 53 and the voice module 56, and then the user controls the operation of the refrigerator 1. You will enter a voice command for .

Meanwhile, the voice module 56 includes a communication unit 565. Therefore, communication with the server 2 is possible through the communication unit 565, and it is possible to process the voice signal input from the microphone module 53 and transmit it to the server 2.

The server 2 can receive a voice signal from the microphone module 53, analyze the voice signal, and determine a voice command accordingly. In addition, the server can process or analyze the received voice signal as a natural language, convert it into text data, etc., and analyze the text data to determine a voice command, or send the analyzed data or text data to the communication unit. It can be delivered to the refrigerator (1) or other home appliances (3).

The server may consist of at least one of an Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) server, a Natural Language Processing (NLP) server, and a Text to Speech (TTS) server, and may be linked to each other. It may be possible to perform complex movements.

Therefore, the process of analyzing and processing the voice signal received from the refrigerator 1 can be performed in the server 2, and the processed data is transmitted back to the voice module 56 through the communication unit 565. You can. Through this structure, it is possible to minimize the configuration of the voice module 56. In particular, the server 2, which has relatively no limitations in size and performance, can have excellent performance, and can perform not only analysis of voice signals and conversion of voice signals, but also other additional tasks linked to input voice signals. It becomes possible.

For example, the server 2 can search for information based on a received voice signal or check the status by comparing operation information of the refrigerator 1 with stored data. In addition, the information obtained through the server 2 may be transmitted to the refrigerator 1 through the communication unit 565 and output to the speaker module 55 or the display 24. Additionally, operation control of the refrigerator 1 may also be possible according to information transmitted from the server 2.

In addition, indirect communication with other home appliances 3 is possible through communication with the server 2, and it may be possible to control the operation of the other home appliances 3 or obtain status information.

Meanwhile, the voice module 56 may be connected to the main control unit 11, and thus may control the operation of electrical components connected to the main control unit 11 through a user's voice input.

For example, the user can input the withdrawing, withdrawing and lifting operations of the lower door 61 using voice. That is, in a state where the user cannot use his or her hands, the driving unit for operating the lower door 61 can be controlled using only voice.

The driving unit may include a motor 15 for drawing in and out of the lower door 61 and a lifting motor 35 for raising and lowering the lower door 61, and the driving unit operates through the user's voice. can be controlled.

Hereinafter, the structure and control method for raising and lowering the lower door using the user's voice will be examined in more detail with reference to the drawings.

Figure 29 is a perspective view of the lower door in a closed state according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the refrigerator 1, both the upper door 62 and the lower door 61 remain closed when food is stored. In this state, the user can store food by pulling in and out and raising and lowering the lower door 61.

The user can operate the operating units 301 and 302 provided on the front or bottom of the lower door 61 to withdraw and withdraw the lower door 61. The operating units 301 and 302 may have a switch 301 structure that can be operated by touch or press, as provided on the front of the lower door 61, and the proximity sensor 302 as provided at the bottom of the lower door 61. ) may be a structure using.

In addition, when the user is holding an object in both hands or is unable to directly manipulate the operation units 301 and 302 at a somewhat distant location, the user can input the withdrawal and lifting operations of the lower door 61 through voice.

In the following, opening and lowering of the lower drawer door 30b among the lower doors 61 disposed upward and downward will be described as an example. However, the upper drawer door 30a also has the same structure and is pulled out in the same way. The mouth may be elevated.

And, hereinafter, controlling the operation of the lower door using the user's voice will be explained as an example.

Figure 30 is a perspective view of the lower door in a pulled out state. And, Figure 31 is a diagram showing the inner state of the lower door of Figure 30.

As shown, when the user wants to withdraw and raise the lower drawer door 30b, a specific voice is input within a set distance from the refrigerator 1 to instruct the operation of the lower drawer door 30b. .

The lower drawer door 30b includes a drawer portion 32 on which a pull-out rail 34 is mounted and a container 36 and a lifting device 80 are accommodated, and a lifting motor connected to the lifting device 80. It may be configured to include a door portion 32 in which (35) is accommodated.

According to the user's operation of pulling out the lower drawer door 30b, the lower drawer door 30b is pulled out forward. The lower drawer door 30b can be pulled out as the pull-out rail 33 extends.

Meanwhile, the lower drawer door 30b may be configured to be pulled out and closed by driving the pull-out motor 15 inside the cabinet 60, rather than being opened by directly being pulled by the user.

The pull-out rack 34 provided on the bottom of the lower drawer door 30b may be coupled to the pinion gear 151 that rotates when the pull-out motor 15 provided in the cabinet 60 is driven, and thus The lower drawer door 30b is pulled out and retracted as the pull-out motor 15 is driven.

The lower drawer door 30b can be pulled out at least to a distance where the front space S1 inside the drawer 32 where the container 36 is accommodated can be completely exposed to the outside. And, in this state, when the lifting device 80 inside the drawer unit 32 is lifted or lowered, the container 36 or food interferes with the doors 20 or 30a or the cabinet 60 placed above. It won't happen.

At this time, the withdrawal/extraction distance of the lower drawer door 30b may be determined by a withdrawal/extraction detection device disposed on the cabinet 60 and/or the lower drawer door 30b. The withdrawal/extraction detection device can detect whether the lower drawer door 30b is completely withdrawn or closed. The withdrawal/input detection device includes, for example, a pair of magnets (381,382) provided on the withdrawal/indrawal rail (33) or the drawer unit (32), and a detection sensor (16) provided on one side of the cabinet to detect the magnets (381,382). ) can be composed of.

Additionally, if necessary, the withdrawal/output detection device may be configured as a switch at a position where the lower drawer door (30b) is completely retracted and a position where the lower drawer door (30b) is fully withdrawn, so as to detect the withdrawal/intraction of the lower drawer door (30b). In addition, the withdrawal/input detection device is composed of a sensor that counts the number of rotations of the withdrawal/input motor 15 or measures the distance between the back of the door part 31 and the front end of the cabinet 60 to open the lower drawer door. It is also possible to detect withdrawals and deposits in (30b).

In a state in which the lower drawer door 30b is sensed to be completely withdrawn, the driving motor 64 may be driven to operate the lifting device 80. The lifting device 80 may be configured to operate in a situation where the lower drawer door 30b is sufficiently withdrawn to ensure safe lifting and lowering of the food or container 36 mounted on the lifting device 80.

Looking at the state in which the lower drawer door 30b is pulled out in more detail, when the lower drawer door 30b is pulled out for lifting, the front space S1 is completely outside the lower storage space 602. It must be in a withdrawn state.

In particular, the rear end (L1) of the front space (S1) must be drawn out further than the front end (L2) of the cabinet 60 or the upper door 62 to prevent interference during lifting and lowering of the lifting device 80. In order to prevent this, it must be located at least further forward than the cabinet 60 or the front end (L2) of the upper door 62.

In addition, when the lifting device 80 is pulled out to be driven, the entire drawer portion 32 is not completely pulled out, but only to a position to avoid interference during the lifting and lowering of the lifting device 80, as shown in FIG. 31. can be withdrawn At this time, at least a portion of the rear space S2 of the drawer unit 32 is located inside the lower storage space 602. That is, the rear end L3 of the drawer unit 32 is located at least inside the lower storage space 602.

Therefore, even in the state where the weight of the contents is added to the weight of the lower drawer door 30b itself, including the lifting motor 40 and the lifting device 80 provided inside the door portion 31, the pull-out rail (33) Alternatively, stable withdrawal and lifting operations can be ensured without sagging or damage to the lower drawer door (30b) itself.

The lifting motor 35 is provided inside the door part 31 and is connected to the lifting device 80 to provide power to raise and lower the lifting device 80. In addition, the lifting device 80 may be configured to have a scissor structure and be configured to be raised and lowered according to the driving of the lifting motor 35. Of course, the lifting device 80 may have various other configurations capable of being lifted up and down by the lifting motor 35.

The lifting motor 35 may start operating when the lower drawer door 30b is confirmed to be completely withdrawn. In order to ensure user safety and prevent damage to stored food, the lifting device 80 begins to rise by operating the lifting motor 35 after the withdrawal of the lower drawer door 30b is confirmed and a set time has elapsed. It can be configured as follows.

Of course, if necessary, the user may instruct only the withdrawal operation of the lower drawer door 30b by voice, and in this case, the lifting motor 35 remains in a stopped state after the lower drawer door 30b is withdrawn. I do it. And, after confirming that the lower drawer door 30b has been completely pulled out, the user can again instruct the raising operation of the lower drawer door 30b by voice.

Figure 32 is a perspective view of the lower door being pulled out and the container being raised. And, Figure 33 is a diagram showing the inner state of the lower door of Figure 32.

In a state in which the lower drawer door 30b is withdrawn, when the operation signal of the lifting motor 40 is input, the lifting motor 40 is operated, and the lifting device 80 is lifted and lowered as shown in FIG. 32. The lifting motor 35 is operated until the state is reached.

With the start of operation of the lifting motor 40, power is transmitted to the lifting device 80, and the lifting device 80 begins to ascend. As the lifting device 80 rises, the container supported by the lifting device 80 passes through the open top of the drawer portion 32 and rises upward.

The lifting device 80 continues to rise and stops when it is raised to a sufficient height to facilitate access to the food or container 36 mounted on the lifting device 80, as shown in FIG. 22. In this state, the user can easily lift the food or container 36 without excessively bending the waist.

Meanwhile, completion of the raising or lowering of the lifting device 80 can be confirmed by the lifting detection device. The lifting detection device is provided with a magnet 81 provided in the lifting device 80 and on both sides of the door portion 31 corresponding to the maximum rising position and maximum lowering position of the lifting sensing device, and the magnet 81 ) may be configured to include a pair of detection sensors (171,172) that detect.

That is, when the detection sensor 172 on the upper part of the door part 31 detects the magnet 81 as shown in FIG. 33, it is determined that the lifting device 80 has completed raising and the lifting motor 35 Ensure that forward rotation of is stopped.

In addition, even when the lifting device 80 is lowered, if the detection sensor 171 at the bottom of the door part 31 detects the magnet 81, it is determined that the lowering of the lifting device 80 is completed. Reverse rotation of the lifting motor 35 is stopped.

After the user's food storage task is completed, the user inputs a voice to lower the lifting device 80 and retract the lower drawer door 30b. When a voice for lowering the lifting device 80 and retracting the lower drawer door 30b is input from the user, the lifting motor 35 is first operated, and the lifting device 80 begins lowering. .

The lowering of the lifting device 80 can be achieved by reverse rotation of the drive motor 64, and can be achieved gradually through a process opposite to the above-described process.

And, when the lifting device 80 completes lowering, the state is as shown in FIG. 17. At this time, the lowering of the lifting device 80 is also completed by the lifting detection device. When the magnet 81 is detected by the detection sensor 171 positioned below, the lifting device 80 determines that lowering has been completed and the lifting motor 35 stops.

And, after the lifting motor 35 is stopped, the lower drawer door 30b can be retracted by the operation of the withdrawing motor 15. When the complete retraction of the lower drawer door 30b is detected by the withdrawal/extraction detection device, the withdrawal/extraction motor 15 stops, and when the lower drawer door 30b is completely closed, the state shown in FIG. 15 can be reached. there is.

In this way, the lower door 61 can be operated through a continuous operation from withdrawal to raising with only the user's voice input, and the lower drawer door 30b can be operated continuously from lowering to retraction through the user's voice input. It can work.

Accordingly, the operation of the lower door 61 can be controlled by voice even in situations where the user is holding an object in his or her hand or cannot directly operate the operation units 301 and 302. Of course, the operating units 301 and 302 may be omitted if necessary, thereby creating a neater and more luxurious appearance.

Claims (41)

A cabinet forming a storage space;
A door that opens and closes the storage space;
a receiving portion recessed in the upper surface of the door;
A microphone module provided inside the receiving portion and through which the user's voice is input;
a door cover that shields the receiving portion;
A microphone mounting portion formed on the door cover and on which the microphone module is mounted; and
It includes a microphone hole formed in the microphone mounting portion and formed to penetrate the door cover through which the user's voice passes,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the upper surface of the microphone module is mounted to contact the lower surface of the door cover at a position corresponding to the microphone hole.
According to claim 1,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the microphone mounting portion protrudes upward from the door cover.
According to claim 2,
The microphone hole is opened to face forward in the microphone mounting unit,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that formed on the protruding peripheral surface of the microphone mounting portion.
According to claim 1,
The microphone mounting part,
A protrusion protruding upward;
It extends forward from the front end of the protrusion and includes an inclined portion having a slope that decreases as it moves forward,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the microphone hole is formed in the inclined portion.
According to claim 4,
The microphone mounting portion includes a depression that is depressed downward from the front of the inclined portion,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the front end of the inclined portion extends to the bottom of the recessed portion.
According to claim 4,
A hole guide protrudes around the microphone hole,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the front of the hole guide is formed to have a slope greater than the slope of the inclined portion.
According to claim 4,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the microphone module is mounted on the back of the inclined portion and spaced apart from the inner surface of the receiving portion.
According to claim 4,
A microphone supporter is provided on the bottom of the microphone mounting unit to support the microphone module from below and is coupled to the door cover,
The microphone supporter is,
a mounting surface coupled to the protrusion;
It includes a support surface extending at a slope corresponding to the slope at the front end of the mounting surface,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the microphone module is mounted on the support surface.
According to claim 8,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the microphone supporter has a connector hole that opens to expose a microphone connector protruding downward from the microphone module.
According to claim 1,
The receiving portion is arranged to be spaced apart from the microphone module,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that it is provided with a voice module that is electrically connected to the microphone module and processes voice signals input from the microphone module.
A cabinet forming a storage space;
A door that opens and closes the storage space;
a receiving portion recessed in the upper surface of the door;
a microphone module accommodated in the receiving portion and including a microphone element through which a user's voice is input;
a speaker module accommodated in the receiving portion and outputting sound;
a door cover that shields the accommodating part, has a microphone hole formed at a position corresponding to the microphone element, and on which the microphone module and the speaker module are mounted;
a speaker mounting portion recessed in the door cover corresponding to the speaker module;
a speaker hole formed in the speaker mounting portion and open to expose an audio output portion of the speaker module; and
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, comprising a speaker cover provided on the speaker mounting portion and covering the speaker hole from above.
delete According to claim 11,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the perimeter of the speaker cover is spaced apart from the perimeter of the speaker mounting portion.
According to claim 11,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that an edge protrudes upward along the perimeter of the speaker hole.
According to claim 11,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein an output guide is formed around the audio output unit and protrudes to come into close contact with the periphery of the speaker hole.
According to claim 11,
The receiving portion is arranged to be spaced apart from the microphone module and speaker module,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that it is provided with a voice module connected to the microphone module and the speaker module by a connector.
According to claim 16,
A control unit electrically connected to the voice module is formed in the cabinet,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the refrigerator according to the voice received from the microphone module.
A cabinet forming a storage space;
A door that opens and closes the storage space;
a plurality of microphone holes formed to penetrate one side of the door through which the user's voice passes; and
It includes a microphone module mounted on the inner side of the door corresponding to the position where the microphone hole is formed and through which the user's voice is input,
The microphone module is,
A substrate with one side in close contact with the inner surface of the door;
a plurality of microphone elements provided on the other side of the substrate and spaced apart from each other;
a plurality of substrate holes formed through the substrate at positions corresponding to the plurality of microphone elements;
A sealing member formed in a sheet shape and disposed on the substrate and made of an adhesive material to closely adhere between the upper surface of the substrate and the microphone mounting portion; and
It includes a plurality of through holes formed through the sealing member at positions corresponding to the plurality of microphone elements,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the microphone hole, the through hole, and the substrate hole are sequentially communicated to form a passage toward the microphone element.
According to claim 18,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the microphone module is mounted on a cap deco forming the upper surface of the door.
According to claim 18,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the microphone module is mounted on an outer case forming the front of the door.
According to claim 20,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the microphone module is mounted on an inclined surface formed at an angle at the bottom of the outer case.
According to claim 18,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the microphone module is mounted on the handle of the door.
According to claim 22,
The handle is recessed inward,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the microphone module is disposed inside a recessed portion of the handle.
According to claim 18,
A lower cap decor forming a surface facing the ground is formed on the lower surface of the door,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the microphone module is mounted on the lower cap decor.
According to claim 18,
The door is equipped with a dispenser for dispensing water or ice,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the microphone module is mounted on the dispenser.
According to claim 18,
The door is equipped with a display to display the operating status of the refrigerator,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, characterized in that the microphone module is mounted on the display.
According to claim 18,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the microphone hole, the substrate hole, and the microphone element are arranged on the same extension line.
delete delete delete delete delete delete delete According to claim 18,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the sealing member is formed of a compressible material.
According to claim 18,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the sealing member is formed in a shape corresponding to the size of the substrate.
According to claim 18,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein a connector for electrically connecting to the outside of the board is provided on one side of the board that is the same as the side on which the plurality of microphone modules are mounted.
According to clause 37,
A refrigerator equipped with a microphone module, wherein the connector is disposed between the microphone elements that are adjacent to each other.
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