KR102663517B1 - Refrigerator and home appliance - Google Patents

Abstract

The home appliance of this embodiment includes a cabinet having a space; A door that opens and closes the space and has a light source; and a control unit that controls the light source, wherein the door includes a front plate and a light guide plate that guides light to the front plate, the light source radiates light to the light guide plate, and the home appliance is in the first mode or It can operate in a second mode, and when a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit controls the light source so that the light source changes from the first state to the second state, and the specific event occurs in the second mode. In this case, the control unit controls the light source so that the light source maintains the first state or changes from the first state to the third state.

Description

Refrigerators and home appliances{ REFRIGERATOR AND HOME APPLIANCE }

The present invention relates to refrigerators and home appliances.

In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at low temperature in an internal storage space shielded by the refrigerator door. The refrigerator can store stored food in an 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.

Refrigerators are gradually becoming larger and more multi-functional in accordance with changes in eating habits and the trend toward higher quality products, and refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenience devices that take user convenience into consideration are being released.

Technologies are being developed to vary the appearance of the front of the refrigerator door to harmonize with the environment in which the refrigerator is placed or with surrounding furniture or home appliances, and this trend is taking place across home appliances.

U.S. Patent No. 8789900 (hereinafter referred to as “Prior Document 1”) discloses a structure in which a decoration panel forming the exterior of the front door of a refrigerator is mounted, and the decoration panel is made to be detachable, allowing the door to fit the user’s preference. It can shape the appearance of the front.

However, in the refrigerator of Prior Literature 1, if the user wants to change the appearance, the entire decoration panel must be removed and replaced, and the decoration panel before replacement can no longer be used.

To solve this problem, Chinese Patent No. 103250018 (hereinafter referred to as "Prior Document 2") provides a reflective layer and a transparent panel on the front of the door of a refrigerator, and lighting devices are installed on both ends of the reflective layer to set the color of the transparent panel. A refrigerator is disclosed that allows it to shine.

In the case of Prior Document 2, the light source of the lighting device can be adjusted to a desired color by the control unit. For example, blue or red may be used, or other colors may be used depending on the temperature of the cooler and/or freezer and/or the load rate of the cooler or freezer.

However, in the case of Prior Document 2, it does not disclose a technology for setting the operating mode of the light source by the user.

In addition, in the case of Prior Document 2, the feature of changing the operating state of the light source when a specific event occurs is not disclosed, and it does not disclose that the state of the light source is determined to be changed or the state change pattern is set differently depending on the mode selected by the user. .

This embodiment provides a home appliance and a refrigerator in which the state of a light source provided in the door can be changed when a specific event occurs.

Optionally or additionally, home appliances and refrigerators are provided that can limit changes in the state of a light source despite the occurrence of a specific event.

Alternatively or additionally, the present embodiment provides a home appliance and a refrigerator in which a user can select one mode among a plurality of modes related to changing the state of a light source.

Alternatively or additionally, this embodiment provides a home appliance and refrigerator that can easily change between modes.

Optionally or additionally, this embodiment provides home appliances and refrigerators that can set whether the state of the light source changes or the state change pattern of the light source for each event.

A home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet having a space; And it may include a door that opens and closes the space and has a light source.

The home appliance may further include a control unit that controls the light source.

The door may include a front plate and a light guide plate that guides light to the front plate. The light source may irradiate light to the light guide plate. The light source may include a plurality of LEDs.

Home appliances may operate in the first mode or the second mode.

When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit may control the light source so that the light source changes from the first state to the second state.

When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit may control the light source so that the light source maintains the first state or changes from the first state to the third state.

A plurality of functions may be performed in the first mode, and some or all of the functions may be restricted in the second mode.

It further includes a control unit for changing a mode between the first mode and the second mode, and when the first mode is changed to the second mode by the control unit, all of the plurality of functions may be restricted.

The home appliance may further include a communication unit capable of communicating with an external remote device. When the first mode is changed to the second mode through the remote device, some or all of the plurality of functions may be restricted.

The operating unit includes a plurality of buttons, and when two or more buttons among the plurality of buttons are pressed sequentially or simultaneously, the mode can be changed.

The home appliance may further include a detection unit for changing the mode between the first mode and the second mode.

When the reference state is detected by the detection unit, the first mode may be changed to the second mode or the second mode may be changed to the first mode.

The detection unit may include an illumination sensor. When the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is detected to be less than a limit illuminance for a certain period of time, the mode may be changed.

The detection unit may include a user detection sensor to detect the user's proximity. The mode may be changed when the user detection sensor detects that the user is within a limited distance for a certain period of time.

When the current time becomes the start time of the second mode, it can be changed to the second mode, and when the current time becomes the end time of the second mode, it can be changed to the first mode.

The first state may be a state in which the light source is turned off, and the second state and the third state may be a state in which the light source is turned on.

The second state may be a state in which the light source is turned on and radiates light of a first color, and the third state may be a state in which the light source is turned on and irradiates light of a second color.

Alternatively, the second state is a state in which the light source is turned on and light of the first color is radiated at a first intensity, and the third state is a state in which the light source is turned on and the light of the first color is irradiated at a first intensity less than the first intensity. It may be a state of investigation into the 2nd century.

Alternatively, the second state may be a state in which some or all of the plurality of LEDs included in the light source are turned on, and the third state may be a state in which fewer LEDs than the number of LEDs turned on in the second state are turned on. there is.

One or more of the first color, second color, first intensity, second intensity, and number of LEDs turned on can be changed.

The door may include a plurality of doors, and each of the plurality of doors may include a light source.

The light source operating in the second state may be different from the light source operating in the third state.

The home appliance may further include a detection unit for detecting the user's proximity. When the detection unit detects that the user is within a reference distance, it may be determined that the specific event has occurred.

The home appliance may further include a detection unit for detecting opening and closing of the door. When the opening or closing of the door is detected by the sensor, it may be determined that the specific event has occurred.

Alternatively, when the door closing is not detected by the detection unit until the opening reference time has elapsed after the door is opened, it may be determined that the specific event has occurred.

The first state may include a fourth state in which the light source operates when the current time is the first time zone, and a fifth state in which the light source operates in a second time zone after the first time zone.

When the current time reaches the start time of each time zone, it may be determined that the specific event has occurred.

The home appliance may further include a voice input unit for inputting a voice command and an output unit for outputting sound.

When an input of a voice command is detected through the voice input unit, it may be determined that the specific event has occurred.

When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit causes the output unit to operate, and when the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit causes the output unit to not operate or turns on the sound of the output unit in the first mode. The output unit can be operated to generate a quieter sound.

Home appliances according to another aspect include a cabinet having a space; A door that opens and closes the space and has a light source; An output unit that outputs sound information; And it may include a control unit that controls the light source and the output unit to perform the function of the home appliance.

The door may include a front plate and a light guide plate that guides light to the front plate. The light source may irradiate light to the light guide plate.

The home appliance may operate in the first mode or the second mode.

A plurality of functions may be performed in the first mode, and some or all of the functions may be restricted in the second mode.

To limit the function, the number of outputs or operations of one or more of the light source and the output unit may be limited.

When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit may control the light source so that the light source changes from the first state to the second state.

When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit may control the light source so that the light source maintains the first state or changes from the first state to the third state.

When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit can cause the output unit to operate.

When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit may operate the output unit so that the output unit does not operate or produces a sound that is quieter than the sound of the output unit in the first mode.

According to this embodiment, when a specific event occurs, the state of the light source provided in the door can be changed, so the user can easily recognize the refrigerator or approach the refrigerator, and the aesthetic sense is improved.

In addition, since it is possible to select a mode that restricts changes in the state of the light source despite the occurrence of a specific event, the operation of the light source or the operation of the output unit can be prevented from interfering with the user.

According to this embodiment, the user can select any one mode among a plurality of modes related to changing the state of the light source, which improves user convenience and has the advantage of satisfying the user's various preferences.

According to this embodiment, there is an advantage that a command for changing between the first mode and the second mode can be easily input.

This embodiment has the advantage of being able to set whether the state of the light source changes or the state change pattern of the light source for each event, thereby improving user convenience and satisfying various preferences of users.

1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a view showing a state in which the panel assembly is separated from the refrigerator door.
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 3.
Figure 5 is a diagram showing the arrangement of a light guide plate and a light source.
Figure 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing a light emitting state of the panel assembly.
Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the flow of control signals of the refrigerator.
Figure 8 is a diagram showing a state in which some doors among a plurality of doors emit light.
Figure 9 is a diagram showing a state in which all doors in a refrigerator emit light.
10 is a diagram illustrating a method of changing the operating mode of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
11 is a diagram illustrating a change in the state of a light source for each mode when a specific event occurs.
Figure 12 is a diagram showing the first function performed by the refrigerator for each mode.
13 is a diagram showing the state of the light source when the door is closed.
Figure 14 is a diagram showing the second function performed by the refrigerator for each mode.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through illustrative drawings. When adding reference numerals to components in each drawing, it should be noted that identical components are given the same reference numerals as much as possible even if they are shown in different drawings. Additionally, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if detailed descriptions of related known configurations or functions are judged to impede understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, the detailed descriptions will be omitted.

Additionally, in describing the components of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the component from other components, and the nature, sequence, or order of the component is not limited by the term. When a component is described as being “connected,” “coupled,” or “connected” to another component, that component may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but there is no need for another component between each component. It should be understood that may be “connected,” “combined,” or “connected.”

Below, a refrigerator will be described as an example of a home appliance. However, the description of the refrigerator of the present invention includes a cabinet having a space therein; And it can be applied to various home appliances including doors that open and close the space. The home appliances may include, for example, air conditioners, clothes care machines, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, cooking appliances, etc.

Furthermore, it should be noted that the home appliance of the present invention is not limited to home appliances in which the interior space of the cabinet is open and closed, and can also be applied to home appliances in which the interior space of the cabinet is not open and closed.

Before explaining, define the direction. The embodiment of the present invention is forward in the direction toward the door based on the cabinet shown in FIG. 1, backward in the direction toward the cabinet relative to the door, downward in the direction toward the floor where the refrigerator is installed, and downward in the direction toward the floor where the refrigerator is installed. The direction can be defined as upward.

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

Referring to FIG. 1, the refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet 10 forming a storage space (or storage area), and a door 20 that opens and closes the storage space of the cabinet 10. It can be included.

For example, the cabinet 10 may form a storage space divided into upper and lower sections, and a refrigerating compartment may be formed at the top and a freezer compartment may be formed at the bottom. The refrigerator compartment may be referred to as an upper storage space, and the freezer compartment may be referred to as a lower storage space.

The door 20 can open and close the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment, respectively. For example, the door 20 may be rotatably mounted on the cabinet 10, and the refrigerating compartment and the freezer compartment may be opened and closed by rotation. Of course, the door 20 may be configured to open and close the refrigerating compartment and/or the freezer compartment by pulling in and out.

The door 20 may include a refrigerator compartment door 201 that opens and closes the refrigerator compartment, and a freezer compartment door 202 that opens and closes the freezer compartment. The refrigerating compartment door 201 may be referred to as an upper door and the freezing compartment door 202 may be referred to as a lower door.

The refrigerating compartment doors 201 may be arranged in a pair of a left refrigerating compartment door and a right refrigerating compartment door side by side. The left refrigerating compartment door and the right refrigerating compartment door can be rotated independently to open and close the refrigerating compartment. The left refrigerating compartment door and the right refrigerating compartment door may be arranged adjacent to each other and may be formed to have the same size.

The freezer door 202 may also include a pair of left freezer door and right freezer door arranged side by side. The left freezer door and the right freezer door can be rotated independently to open and close the freezer. The left freezer door and the right freezer door may be arranged adjacent to each other and may be formed to have the same size.

Of course, in this embodiment, for convenience of explanation and understanding, a refrigerator in which the refrigerating compartment is disposed above the freezer is taken as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to the shape of the refrigerator and can be applied to all types of refrigerators equipped with a door. It may be applied to .

Meanwhile, the door 20 forms the front exterior of the refrigerator 1 in a closed state, and can form the exterior of the refrigerator 1 seen from the front when the refrigerator 1 is installed.

The door 20 may have a structure that allows the front surface to selectively emit light, and may be configured to illuminate with a set color or brightness. Accordingly, the user can change the front color or brightness of the door 20 without removing or disassembling the door 20 and change the overall appearance of the refrigerator 1.

Hereinafter, the structure of the door 20 will be examined in detail with reference to the drawings.

Figure 2 is a perspective view of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a view showing a state in which the panel assembly is separated from the refrigerator door.

2 and 3, the door 20 includes a door body 40 that forms the overall shape of the door 20, and a panel assembly 30 that forms the front exterior of the door 20. It can be included. That is, the door 20 may be configured so that the panel assembly 30 is mounted on the front of the door body 40.

The door body 40 may include a body plate 41 forming the front side and a door liner 42 forming the rear side.

For example, the body plate 41 may be made of a metal material and may be formed in a plate shape with a size corresponding to that of the panel assembly 30. The door liner 42 may be formed of a plastic material, for example, and may form the shape of the back of the door 20 .

The door body 40 may further include side decorations 44 forming both left and right sides of the door body 40. The side decor 44 may connect both left and right ends of the body plate 41 and both left and right ends of the door liner 42.

The door body 40 may further include an upper cap deco 43 and a lower cap deco 45 that form the upper and lower surfaces of the door body 40. The upper cap deco 43 may be connected to the top of the side decor 44, the top of the body plate 41, and the top of the door liner 42. The lower cap deco 45 may be connected to the bottom of the side decor 44, the bottom of the body plate 41, and the bottom of the door liner 42.

The exterior of the door body 40 may be formed by the body plate 41, the door liner 42, the side decor 44, the upper cap decor 43, and the lower cap decor 45.

The space inside the door body 40 formed by combining the body plate 41, the door liner 42, the side decor 44, the upper cap decor 43, and the lower cap decor 45 is provided with an insulation material. may be filled, and may have an insulating structure to prevent heat transfer through the door 20. For example, the insulation material may be formed as the foaming liquid is filled and then hardened. The door body 40 may be provided with an injection port for filling the foaming liquid.

Meanwhile, a panel receiving space 410 opening forward may be formed on the front of the door body 40. That is, the front ends of the side deco 44, upper cap deco 43, and lower cap deco 45 may protrude further forward than the front of the body plate 41.

Accordingly, a panel receiving space 410 with an open front surface may be formed in front of the body plate 41. The panel receiving space 410 is formed in a size corresponding to the size of the panel assembly 30 so that the panel assembly 30 can be inserted. The perimeter of the panel assembly 30 may be supported by the peripheral surface of the panel receiving space 410, that is, the protruding portions of the side decor 44, upper cap decor 43, and lower cap decor 45. there is.

The panel assembly 30 is generally formed in a plate shape and may be formed in a size corresponding to the front surface of the door body 40. Therefore, when the panel assembly 30 is mounted on the front of the door body 40, the panel assembly 30 can form the front exterior of the door 20 by shielding the front of the door body 40. there is. The panel assembly 30 forms the front exterior of the door 20, so it can be called a door panel. Since it forms the front exterior of the refrigerator 1, it can also be called an exterior panel.

While the panel assembly 30 is mounted on the door body 40, the rear side of the panel assembly 30 may be tightly fixed to the body plate 41. Meanwhile, for fixed installation of the panel assembly 30, the lower end of the panel assembly 30 is locked with the lower end of the lower cap deco 45, and the upper end of the panel assembly 30 is connected to the upper cap deco ( The panel assembly 30 can be firmly coupled to the door body 40 by being coupled to the front top of the door 43). The panel assembly 30 may have a structure that can be mounted separately from the door body 40 for service and maintenance.

The front of the panel assembly 30 is exposed to the front when mounted on the door body 40, and can form a substantial front exterior of the door 20. The panel assembly 30 may be configured to emit light from the entire front surface and may be configured to emit light in various colors.

For this purpose, a lighting device 36 may be provided inside the panel assembly 30. The lighting device 36 may be connected to a wire (not shown) for power supply and control. The wire (not shown) is exposed to the outside at the rear of the panel assembly 30, and a connector (not shown) may be provided at an end of the wire (not shown).

A structure may be provided on the front of the door body 40 to connect to the connector of the wire to supply power to the lighting device 36.

Hereinafter, the structure of the panel assembly 30 will be examined in detail with reference to the drawings.

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 in Figure 3, and Figure 5 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the light guide plate and light source.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the panel assembly 30 includes a front plate 31 that forms the front exterior, a lighting device 36 that irradiates light so that the front plate 31 shines, and the lighting device It may include a light guide plate 33 that guides the light emitted from (36), and a diffusion member 32 that spreads the light while separating the light guide plate 33 from the front plate 31. The diffusion member 32 may also be referred to as a support member in that it supports the light guide plate 33.

The lighting device 36 and the light guide plate 33 may be mounted or supported on the diffusion member 32.

The panel assembly 30 may further include a back cover 39 that forms the rear of the panel assembly 30.

The front plate 31 may be formed in a rectangular plate shape and may be made of a material capable of transmitting light. For example, the front plate 31 may be made of a glass material such as blue glass, white glass, or evaporated glass, or another material capable of transmitting light such as ABS, PMMA, or PC. The front plate 31 may also be called a transparent plate or an out plate.

The front plate 31 may be transparent so that light reflected by the light guide plate 33 can be transmitted. At this time, transparency can be defined as the degree to which light reflected from the light guide plate can be transmitted and irradiated to the outside.

The front plate 31 may be formed to have a color, and may be formed to appear in different colors depending on the operation or on/off state of the lighting device 36. For example, a specific pattern or design may be printed on the front plate 31 to have a specific color. A film printed with a pattern having a specific pattern or color is attached to the front plate 31, surface treatment such as imprinting, nickname, or initial printing is performed on the front plate 31, or a specific color and texture are applied to the front plate 31. A coating or deposition layer having a may be formed to form the appearance of the front plate 31.

The front plate 31 may be configured to transmit light emitted from the lighting device 36 but not illuminate components behind the front plate 31. That is, the front plate 31 is configured so that the internal components of the panel assembly 30 are visible through the front plate 31 due to the color of the front plate 31 itself when the lighting device 36 is turned off. It can be prevented from being seen from the outside.

At this time, the front plate 31 may be formed to have a color with a brightness of 0 or more other than black in the off state. That is, when the refrigerator 1 is installed, the front of the refrigerator 1 can be displayed in a color other than black, and the front color of the refrigerator can be changed according to the operation of the lighting device 36. there is.

In the panel assembly 30, the entire front of the front plate 31 may be exposed to the outside. Accordingly, the light diffused by the diffusion member 32 can entirely pass through the front plate 31, so that the entire front surface of the front plate 31 can shine.

The back of the front plate 31 may be coupled to the front of the diffusion member 32 .

The light guide plate 33 may be located at the rear, spaced apart from the front plate 31 by the diffusion member 32, and transmits light emitted from the lighting device 36 disposed below the light guide plate 33. It can guide you to the front.

For example, the light guide plate 33 may be made of a transparent polymer material such as acrylic. A diffusion agent may be added to the light guide plate 33 to allow light incident on the light guide plate 33 to diffuse, or a pattern for light diffusion may be formed. Therefore, light can be transmitted to the front plate 31 by the light guide plate 33, and at this time, the pattern of the light guide plate 33 is set so that the entire front surface of the front plate 31 shines with uniform brightness. It can be.

The load of the light guide plate 33 may be supported by the diffusion member 32, and the front surface of the light guide plate 33 may be pressed toward the diffusion member 32 by the back cover 39.

Meanwhile, a diffusion member 32 may be provided between the front plate 31 and the light guide plate 33. The diffusion member 32 maintains a certain distance between the light guide plate 33 and the front plate 31 and can diffuse the light emitted from the light exit surface of the light guide plate 33.

The front surface of the diffusion member 32 supports the front plate 31, and both sides can constrain both ends of the light guide plate 33. The front surface of the diffusion member 32 may be formed to be larger than the light guide plate 33, and when the light guide plate 33 is mounted, the rear surface of the diffusion member 32 and the light guide plate 33 are in surface contact with each other. to maintain the status quo.

The diffusion member 32 may include a plate-shaped front portion 321 on which the front plate 31 is mounted, and an extension portion extending around the periphery of the front portion 321. The front part 321 and the extension part may form an accommodation space 320a in which the light guide plate 33 is positioned.

The extension part may be arranged to cover the circumference of the light guide plate 33. The circumference of the light guide plate 33 may include, for example, an upper surface, a lower surface, and both sides.

For example, the extension part includes an upper extension part 322 extending from the top of the back of the front part 321, a lower extension part 324 extending from the bottom of the back of the front part 321, and the front part. It may include a pair of side parts extending from both left and right ends of (321).

The upper extension part 322, the lower extension part 324, and the pair of side parts may form the receiving space 320a in which the light guide plate 33 is positioned. Therefore, the diffusion member 32 not only serves to diffuse light, but also serves to accommodate and support the light guide plate 33.

The front portion 321 may be formed in a plate shape corresponding to the front plate 31, and the front surface of the light guide plate 33 may be in close contact with the back of the front portion 321.

According to this embodiment, the front portion 321 of the diffusion member 32 is entirely disposed between the front plate 31 and the light guide plate 33, so even if the light guide plate 33 is deformed by heat, the light guide plate 33 ) can be prevented from directly contacting the front plate 31. Accordingly, dark areas such as stains can be prevented from occurring on the front plate 31.

The front part 321 and the back side of the front plate 31 may be joined by an adhesive part 313. The adhesive portion 313 may include, for example, a sealant or double-sided tape.

The side portion extends rearward from both left and right ends of the front portion 321 and may restrict both left and right sides of the light guide plate 33. The side portion may be spaced apart from at least one of the left and right sides of the light guide plate 33. When the light guide plate 33 moves left and right, the side portion may contact and restrain at least one of the left and right sides. When considering that the light guide plate 33 expands due to heat, it may be desirable for the side portion to be spaced apart from at least one of the left and right sides of the light guide plate 33.

Each of the upper extension part 322 and the lower extension part 324 extends rearward from the front part 321, and each length of the upper extension part 322 and the lower extension part 324 is the light guide plate ( 33) is larger than the thickness.

The diffusion member 32 may be formed of a material capable of transmitting and diffusing light, and may be formed entirely by injection or extrusion as a single structure.

The diffusion member 32 may be entirely formed of a transparent or translucent material. The diffusion member 32 itself may be formed to have a color. Accordingly, when viewed from the front of the panel assembly 30, the front color, texture, or shape of the panel assembly 30 may be determined by the diffusion member 32.

The diffusion member 32 may further include a light guide plate support portion 326 that supports the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33. The light guide plate support part 326 extends rearward from the rear surface of the front part 321 and may be arranged above the lower extension part 324 to be spaced apart from the lower extension part 324 .

In order to stably support the load of the light guide plate 33, the diffusion member 32 may include a plurality of light guide plate supports 326. The plurality of light guide plate supports 326 may be arranged to be spaced apart in the horizontal direction.

The lighting device 36 can be accommodated in the diffusion member 32 . The diffusion member 32 may include a receiving groove 324a (or receiving portion) for receiving a portion of the writing device 36.

The receiving groove 324a may be formed as a portion of the rear surface of the front portion 321 is depressed forward. Accordingly, the portion of the front portion 321 where the receiving groove 324a is formed may be thinner than other portions.

The receiving groove 324a may be located between the light guide plate support part 326 and the lower extension part 324. Accordingly, when the writing device 36 is accommodated in the receiving groove 324a, the writing device 36 can be positioned below the light guide plate support portion 326.

The lighting device 36 may include a substrate 361 and a light source 362. The substrate 361 may be formed in a plate shape and may be long in the left and right directions.

A plurality of light sources 362 may be continuously arranged at regular intervals on the substrate 361. The light source 362 may be arranged to irradiate light toward the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33. That is, the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33 is the light entering surface, and the front surface 331 of the light guiding plate 33 is the light exiting surface.

The substrate 361 may provide a space in which the light source 362 can be continuously arranged from the left end to the other side end of the light guide plate 33.

The light source 362 may be placed vertically below the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33, that is, facing the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33.

The light source 362 may be composed of, for example, an LED. The light source 362 may be composed of an RGB LED that can emit light of various colors under the control of the control unit 13, which will be described later. That is, the light source 362 can emit light of various colors according to the control of the control unit 13, which will be described later, and thus the front plate 31 can shine in the color set by the control unit 13. . The front exterior color of the refrigerator 1 may be determined depending on the color of the front plate 31.

The light source 362 may be composed of an LED that emits light of a specific color in addition to the RGB LED, or may be composed of a combination of a plurality of LEDs that emit light of different colors. For example, the plurality of light sources 362 may be composed of red, green, and blue LEDs and may be sequentially and repeatedly arranged. Under the control of the control unit 13, the operations of the light sources 362 can be combined to cause the front plate 31 to shine in a desired color.

The distance between the light sources 362 is formed to be larger than the left and right widths of the light guide plate support portion 326, so that the light guide plate support portion 355 can be disposed between the light sources 362. Accordingly, the light emitted from the light source 362 may pass between two adjacent light guide plate supports 326 and be irradiated to the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33.

The panel assembly 30 may further include a substrate supporter 37 mounted on the lower extension portion 324 of the diffusion member 32 .

The substrate supporter 37 may support the substrate 361 while being seated on the lower extension portion 324. The substrate supporter 37 can dissipate heat generated by the lighting device 36 through conduction.

The substrate supporter 37 may be formed of a metal material, for example. For example, the substrate supporter 37 may be made of aluminum material with high thermal conductivity. The substrate supporter 37 may be extruded from a metal material to have the same cross-sectional shape in the longitudinal direction.

A portion of the substrate supporter 37 may be accommodated in the receiving groove 324a. The substrate supporter 37 may contact the back cover 39 when the back cover 39 is assembled. Accordingly, the heat generated by the lighting device 36 may be transferred to the back cover 39 through the substrate supporter 37 and dissipated through the back cover 39.

The panel assembly 30 may further include a rear supporter 34 that supports the rear side of the light guide plate 33. The rear supporter 34 may be formed in a plate shape and may be attached to the back of the light guide plate 33 by an adhesive.

The rear supporter 34 may be made of an opaque material that limits light transmission. The rear supporter 34 may be accommodated in the receiving space 320a formed by the diffusion member 32. The upper extension portion 322 may cover the upper side of the rear supporter 34, and the side portions 327 and 328 may cover both sides of the rear supporter 34.

The lower surface of the rear supporter 34 may be located on the upper side of the substrate 361. For example, the lower surface of the rear supporter 34 may be seated on the upper surface of the substrate 361.

In this case, the upward movement of the substrate 361 may be restricted by the rear supporter 34. Since the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33 is seated on the upper surface of the light guide plate supporter 226, a set distance can be maintained between the lower surface of the light guide plate 33 and the light source 362.

In this way, the lighting device 36 is maintained in a fixed state and the distance between the light guide plate 33 and the light source 362 is also maintained at a set distance, so that the light emitted from the light source 362 is at a designed angle. Thus, light can be incident on the light guide plate 33. Accordingly, the light emitted from the light source 362 is effectively irradiated toward the light guide plate 33, and the light reflected through the light guide plate 33 can cause the front plate 31 to shine at a set brightness.

In another aspect, the rear supporter 34 may be mounted on the light guide plate support portion 326.

The rear supporter 34 may include an opening 342 through which a portion of the back cover 39 passes.

The back cover 39 may include a cover body 391 and a bent portion extending horizontally from an edge of the cover body 391.

The cover body 391 may contact the rear side of the rear supporter 34. The cover body 391 may be attached to the rear supporter 34 by an adhesive or may be coupled to the rear supporter 34 by a fastening member such as a screw.

The bent portion extends forward from the edge of the cover body 391 and may include an upper bent portion 393, a lower bent portion 396, and a pair of side bent portions. The bent portion may contact the diffusion member 32. For example, the bent portion may be attached to the extension portion of the diffusion member 32 by an adhesive portion.

For example, the upper bent portion 393 may be seated in the recessed upper seating groove 323 formed in the upper extension portion 322 of the diffusion member 32.

The lower bent portion 396 may contact the lower surface of the lower extension portion 324 of the diffusion member 32. The side bent portion may be seated in a recessed side seating groove formed in the side extension portion.

In the case of this embodiment, the diffusion member 32 supports and fixes the position of the light guide plate 33, and the back cover 39 is coupled to surround a portion of the diffusion member 32, so that the panel assembly ( There is an advantage in that the number of parts of the panel assembly 30 can be reduced and the thickness of the panel assembly 30 in the front-back direction can be reduced.

The cover body 391 may further include a pressing portion 392 bent toward the light guide plate 33 . The pressing portion 392 may pass through the opening 342 of the rear supporter 34 and contact the rear surface of the light guide plate 33.

In the case of this embodiment, the cover body 391 may press the rear supporter 34 toward the rear side of the light guide plate 33 while in contact with the rear side of the rear supporter 34, and the pressing portion 392 ) can directly pressurize the light guide plate 33.

Meanwhile, the receiving groove 324a may be positioned equal to or lower than the lower surface 311 of the front plate 31. That is, a portion of the front portion 321 may extend further downward than the lower surface 311 of the front plate 31.

The diffusion member 32 can diffuse the light radiated from the light exit surface of the light guide plate 33. Since a part of the diffusion member 32 is located lower than the lower surface 311 of the front plate 31, There is a possibility that the light passing through the diffusion member 32 is directly irradiated to the outside without passing through the front plate 31. To prevent this phenomenon, the panel assembly 30 of this embodiment may further include a lower trim 35.

The lower trim 35 may be coupled to the diffusion member 32 by a coupling means such as an adhesive or a hook.

The lower trim 35 may include a first part 351 extending vertically and a second part 352 extending horizontally from the bottom of the first part 351. At least the first part 351 may be formed to be opaque or translucent and, if necessary, may be formed to have a specific color.

The first part 351 may cover a portion of the diffusion member 32 extending downward from the lower surface 311 of the front plate 31. For example, the first part 351 may be disposed in the diffusion member 32 to face the receiving groove 324a in front of the receiving groove 324a.

The second portion 352 may support the lower extension portion 324. The second part 352 may include a seating groove 393 for seating the lower bent portion 396 of the back cover 39.

Figure 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing the light emitting state of the panel assembly. Figure 7 is a block diagram showing the flow of control signals of the refrigerator. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a state in which all doors in a refrigerator emit light, and FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a state in which some doors among a plurality of doors emit light.

Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9 , in the refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the front of the door 20 can be illuminated by the operation of the lighting device 36.

The front of the door 20 may shine in one of a plurality of colors under the control of the control unit 13.

The operation of the writing device 36 can be performed through the user's manipulation of the operation unit 14. The operating unit 14 may be provided on one side of the refrigerator 1, and for example, may be provided on one side of the cabinet 10. Of course, the manipulation unit 14 may be provided on the door 20 as needed, and input may be input through a touch manipulation of the front plate 31. That is, the user can set the operation of the lighting device 36 by directly manipulating the manipulation unit 14 and can also turn the lighting device 36 on or off.

The user can set the operating state of the lighting device 36, such as the operating time, operating conditions, and color of the light source 362, by manipulating the manipulation unit 14. Various commands related to the operation of the refrigerator can be input by manipulating the operation unit 14. If necessary, the manipulation unit 14 may be configured as a display capable of displaying and manipulating information.

By way of example, the manipulation unit 14 may include one or more buttons 141, 142, and 143.

When the control unit 14 includes a plurality of buttons, the control unit 14 includes a button 141 for selecting a storage space (for example, a refrigerator button and a freezer button) and a temperature control button for controlling the temperature of the storage room. It may include a button 142 (for example, an up button and a down button), and a lock button 143 for locking or unlocking the button.

If the lock button 143 is named the first button, the remaining buttons can be named the second button and the third button. There is no limit to the number of button names.

When the user presses the lock button 143 for a standard time, all buttons may be locked. In this state, even if the buttons are pressed, the button press signal is not transmitted to the control unit 13. On the other hand, if the lock button 143 is pressed for the reference time, all buttons can be unlocked. In this state, a signal corresponding to the button pressed by the user may be transmitted to the control unit 13.

As another example, the manipulation unit 14 may further include a mode selection button. Using the mode selection button, one of the plurality of operating modes of the refrigerator can be selected or the mode can be changed.

The lighting device 36 may be operated and operating conditions may be set through a remote device 2 separate from the refrigerator 1. The refrigerator 1 can communicate with the remote device 2 through a communication unit 17 connected to the control unit 13, and the user controls the operation of the lighting device 36 through the remote device 2. can do.

The communication unit 17 may communicate with the remote device 2 and/or a server that manages the home appliance in various ways. As an example, the communication unit 17 may have a structure capable of communicating in at least one of wired, wireless, and short-range communication (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, NFC, etc.). The remote device 2 may be a variety of devices capable of communication, such as a dedicated terminal, mobile phone, tablet, portable PC, desktop PC, remote control, or Bluetooth speaker.

The user can manipulate and set the operating state of the lighting device 36, such as the operating time, operating conditions, and color of the light source, through manipulation of the remote device 2. For example, simple operation and settings may be possible through an application or dedicated program installed on the user's mobile phone.

The refrigerator 1 may further include a timer 16. The timer 16 can count the elapsed time since a specific event occurs.

Meanwhile, the lighting device 36 may be operated based on a detection result by the detection unit 15.

For example, the detection unit 15 may include a user detection sensor 151 that detects the user's proximity. The user detection sensor may be a variety of devices that can detect the user's proximity to the refrigerator, such as an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a laser sensor.

The user detection sensor 151 may be provided on one side of the cabinet 10 or the door 20, and may be placed in various locations to detect the proximity of a user. A plurality of the sensors may be provided at different locations.

Therefore, when the user approaches the refrigerator 1 by a standard distance to use the refrigerator 1, the user detection sensor 151 detects this, transmits a signal to the control unit 13, and switches on the lighting device. (36) can be turned on.

When the user moves away from the refrigerator 1, the user detection sensor 151 can detect this and transmit a signal to the control unit 13 to turn off the lighting device 36.

If the user detection sensor 151 is provided in the cabinet 10, the user detection sensor 151 may be located on the front of the cabinet 10 corresponding to the space between the upper door and the lower door. . Since the upper door and the lower door are spaced apart, a gap exists between the upper door and the lower door.

Therefore, when the user detection sensor 151 is placed at a position corresponding to the gap, the user detection sensor 151 can detect the user's proximity.

The detection unit 15 may further include a knock detection sensor 152. The knock detection sensor 152 may be installed on the door 20, for example. When a knock input is detected by the knock detection sensor 152 and the detected knock input corresponds to a normal knock input, the control unit 13 can change the state of the refrigerator 1 in response to the knock input.

For example, some of the doors 20 may include a panel capable of transmitting light and may include a knock detection sensor 152, and a lighting device may be installed on some of the doors 20 and/or the cabinet 10. may be provided. When a normal knock input is detected, the lighting device is turned on and the space inside the cabinet 10 and/or the door storage space provided in some of the doors 20 can be checked through the panel without opening some of the doors 20. there is.

Of course, one or more of the remaining doors in the plurality of doors 20 may also include a knock detection sensor 152. A door used to check the internal space of a storage space can be called a visualization door.

The detection unit 15 may further include a door opening/closing detection unit 153 that detects the opening/closing of the door 20.

When the opening of the door 20 is detected by the detection unit 15, the control unit 13 can operate the lighting device 36 or change its operating state.

The door opening/closing detection unit 153 can detect the opening/closing of each of the plurality of doors. The door opening/closing detection unit 153 can only detect the opening/closing of the door 20. For example, the door opening/closing detection unit 153 may include a reed switch, a hall sensor, or an optical sensor.

Alternatively, the door opening/closing detection unit 153 may not only detect the opening/closing of the door 20 but also detect one or more of the rotation direction, rotation speed (angular velocity), and rotation angle of the door 20.

For example, the door opening/closing detection unit 153 may include, for example, an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor. Using this sensor, the opening of the door 20, the opening angle of the door 20, the opening speed of the door 20, the closing speed of the door 20, the closing speed of the door 20, etc. Detection may be possible.

When the door opening/closing detection unit 153 detects that the door 20 is closed, the control unit 13 can change the state of the lighting device 36.

As another example, the door opening/closing detection unit 153 includes a first detection unit for detecting the opening and closing of the door, and a second detection unit for detecting one or more of the rotation direction, rotation speed (angular velocity), and rotation angle of the door. It is also possible to include a sensing unit.

When the opening of the door 20 is detected by the door opening/closing detection unit 153, the timer 16 may be activated, and the opening time of the door 20 is measured by the timer 16. The opening time of the door 20 may be stored in the memory 18.

The control unit 13 may control the operation of the lighting device 36 based on the opening time of the door 20 measured by the timer 16.

The detection unit 15 may further include an illumination sensor 154. The illuminance sensor 154 can detect the illuminance around the refrigerator 1. The illuminance sensor 154 may be provided in the cabinet 10 or in the door 20 .

In this embodiment, one or more of the user detection sensor 151, the knock detection sensor 152, and the illuminance sensor 154 may be omitted.

The refrigerator may further include an output unit 19. The output unit 19 may include a display that displays information on a screen or a speaker that outputs sound or voice. The display may include, for example, an LCD panel. If the display is capable of inputting commands, the output unit 19 can also serve as an input unit.

Although not shown, the refrigerator 1 may further include a voice input unit for receiving voice commands. The operation of the refrigerator can be controlled based on commands input through the voice input unit, and the operation of the lighting device can also be controlled.

Meanwhile, briefly looking at the operating state of the lighting device operated by the control unit 13, as shown in FIG. 6, when the lighting device 36 is turned on according to the instructions of the control unit 13, Light emitted from the light source 362 is irradiated to the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33 and may be guided along the light guide plate 33.

At this time, the light guided by the light guide plate 33 may pass through the light exit surface, diffuse through the front part 321, and then be transmitted to the outside through the front plate 31. Accordingly, the entire front plate 31 shines brightly, and the front of the door 20 can shine with a set brightness or color.

When the lighting device 36 is turned on, the front of the door 20 can shine brightly, and the front of the door 20 can shine with a set color by the light emitted from the light source 362. At this time, the front color of the door 20 may be a different color or brightness from the color when the lighting device 36 is turned off.

That is, the front color of the door 20 can be seen as the color of the front plate 31, and the texture and pattern formed on the front plate 31 can also be seen. At this time, the color of the front plate 31 may be a color with a brightness greater than 0, and may be a color other than black. The color of the front of the door 20 when the lighting device 36 is turned off may be referred to as the first color (or background color).

Accordingly, the front of the door 20 is shown in the color of the front plate 31, and at this time, the internal components of the panel assembly 30 are changed according to the color of the front plate 31. It is transparent and becomes invisible to the outside.

In this state, the lighting device 36 can be turned on, and when the lighting device 36 is turned on, the front of the door 20 lights up with the color set in the control unit 13.

The front of the door 20 can be controlled to shine in a second color different from the first color, and the lighting device 36 allows the door 20 to shine in the second color according to the control of the control unit 13. The light source 362 can be controlled so that it shines.

At this time, the color emitted from the light source 362 may be different from the second color. That is, since the front plate 31 contains the first color, if light of the second color is irradiated from the light source 362, the light changes to the first color in the process of passing through the front plate 31. As a result, the door 20 can actually shine with a third color.

Therefore, in this embodiment, controlling the light source 362 to emit a specific color from the door 20 actually controls the color emitted from the light source 362 by considering the color of the front plate 31 itself. It can mean doing.

That is, when the light source 362 is turned on, the color shining from the door 20 may be a mixture of the color of the front plate 31 and the color of the light emitted from the light source 362. there is.

Meanwhile, some of the doors 20 of the plurality of doors 20 forming the front exterior of the refrigerator 1 emit light, or the plurality of doors 20 emit light independently to display the refrigerator 1 in a set color. It can also form the front exterior.

The refrigerator 1 may be operated so that some of the doors 20 among the plurality of doors light up or light up in a specific color. In other words, not all of the lighting devices 36 provided on the doors 20 are operated, but only some of the doors 20 may be configured to illuminate. For example, one of the refrigerating compartment doors 201 may shine.

If necessary, the left and right refrigerator compartment doors may glow in different colors. Among the doors 20, at least two doors 20 may change color sequentially, and at least two doors 20 may be turned on and off sequentially.

At this time, the lighting device 36 provided in the panel assembly 30 may be controlled by the control unit 13 according to the various conditions described above.

Meanwhile, among the doors, the refrigerator compartment door or the freezer compartment door may be controlled to shine in different colors.

The control unit 13 may control the lighting device 36 so that the pair of refrigerating compartment doors 201 are displayed in the first color. The control unit 13 may control the lighting device 36 so that the pair of refrigerating compartment doors 201 appear in the second color.

Hereinafter, specific operation control of the lighting device 36 will be described.

For convenience of explanation, as shown in FIG. 12, the two upper doors of the refrigerator are referred to as the first door 211 and the second door 212, and the two lower doors are referred to as the third door ( 213) and the fourth door (213).

In the case of the upper first door 211 and the second door 212, the light source 362 may be located below each of the first door and the second door. In the case of the lower third door 213 and fourth door 214, the light source 362 may be located above the third door 213 and fourth door 214, respectively. Of course, it is also possible for the light source 362 to be located below each of the third door 213 and the fourth door 214.

Of course, as an optional terminology, it is also possible to refer to the two doors on the lower side as the first door and the second door, and the two doors on the upper side of the first door and the second door as the third door and the fourth door. .

Additionally, operation control of the lighting device 36 described below is not limited to the structure of the panel assembly described above. That is, one or more of the plurality of components constituting the panel assembly may be omitted, one or more of the plurality of components may be replaced with another component, or the position or shape of one or more of the plurality of components may be changed. .

In this specification, changing the state of the light source 362 means changing the light source 362 from an off state to an on state, changing the light source 362 from an on state to an off state, or changing the light source 362 from an on state to an on state. The brightness of the light emitted from the light source 362 is changed, the brightness or color of the light emitted from some of the plurality of LEDs is changed when the light source 362 is turned on, and the number of lights on the LEDs is changed. It may include one or more of (increasing the number of LED lights-up or decreasing the number of LED lights-up) and changing the color of light emitted from the light source 362 when the light source 362 is turned on.

The state in which the light source 362 is turned on may mean that one or more LEDs among a plurality of LEDs are turned on. That is, when the light source 362 is turned on, some of the LEDs may be turned on or all of the plurality of LEDs may be turned on. The state in which the light source 362 is turned off may mean that all of the plurality of LEDs are turned off.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a method of changing the operating mode of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a change in the state of a light source for each mode when a specific event occurs.

The operating mode of the refrigerator can be set in the refrigerator (1) or in a remote device (2) that can communicate with the refrigerator.

Below, first, setting the operating mode of the refrigerator 1 will be described as an example.

The operating mode of the refrigerator may include a first mode and a second mode.

The first mode is a mode in which a specific function is performed in the refrigerator by the light source 362 and/or the output unit 18 when a specific event occurs.

On the other hand, the second mode is a mode in which performance of the specific function by one or more of the light source and the output unit is restricted when the specific event occurs.

When the first mode is selected, the specific function can be performed, but depending on the user, performance of the specific function may be a hindrance to the user or the user may not want to perform the specific function. The second mode can be understood as a do not disturb mode, for example. Accordingly, the user can change the first mode to the second mode. Additionally, the user can change the second mode back to the first mode.

The performance of a specific function is limited because the specific function is not performed (the light source and/or the output unit does not operate) or when a specific function is performed, the light source and/or the output unit is used to achieve the original function. This may mean that the light source and/or the output unit operates or changes its state differently from the operation of the unit.

In order to limit the specific function, the output or number of operations of one or more of the light source and the output unit may be limited.

For example, the color of the light emitted by the light source in the first mode is different from the color of the light emitted by the light source in the second mode, or the intensity of the light emitted by the light source in the first mode is greater than that in the second mode. The intensity of the light emitted by the light source is small, the number of LEDs turned on in the second mode is smaller than the number of LEDs turned on in the first mode, or the volume of the sound generated from the output unit in the first mode is smaller than the number of LEDs turned on in the first mode. The volume of sound generated from the output unit in mode 1 may be small, or the number of times the output unit operates in the second mode may be smaller than the number of times the output unit operates in the first mode.

When manufacturing the refrigerator 1, the first mode is basically set, and the first mode can be automatically changed to the second mode when a mode change command is input by the user or when a specific condition is satisfied. .

Even when the second mode is set, the second mode may be automatically changed to the first mode when a mode change command is input by the user or a specific condition is satisfied.

When the specific condition is satisfied, for example, the current time may be within a specific time range or the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor may be less than the standard illuminance.

The specific time range may be set as a late-night time zone, for example, between 9 PM and 6 AM, and the specific time range can be changed. Therefore, when the current time is 9 PM (the start time of the second mode), the first mode is automatically changed to the second mode, and when the current time is 6 AM (the end time of the second mode), the first mode is automatically changed to the second mode. Mode 2 may be automatically changed to the first mode.

In the first mode, a plurality of functions may be performed in the refrigerator by the light source 362 and/or the output unit 18. In the second mode, some or all of a plurality of functions may be restricted.

Although not limited, when changing the first mode to the second mode in the refrigerator 1, all of a plurality of functions may be restricted (all settings). On the other hand, when changing the first mode to the second mode in the remote device 2, all of the plurality of functions can be restricted or some of the plurality of functions can be restricted (individual setting). That is, the remote device 2 can select a restricted function from among a plurality of functions.

Referring to FIG. 10, the operating mode of the refrigerator 1 may be set to the first mode (S1).

With the refrigerator 10 set to the first mode, the control unit 13 can determine whether the first reference state is detected by the detection unit 15 (S2).

Step S2 can also be described as a step of determining whether a mode change command has been input by the detection unit 15.

When it is determined that the first reference state is detected by the detection unit 15, the control unit 13 changes the operating mode of the refrigerator 1 from the first mode to the second mode (S3). .

With the refrigerator 10 set to the second mode, the control unit 13 can determine whether the second reference state is detected by the detection unit 15 (S4).

Step S4 can also be described as a step of determining whether a mode change command has been input by the detection unit 15.

If it is determined that the second reference state is detected by the detection unit 15, the control unit 13 changes the operating mode of the refrigerator 1 from the second mode to the first mode (S1) .

When the first reference state is detected, for example, it may be when the user proximity sensor 151 detects for a certain period of time that the user is within a limited distance for changing the mode.

At this time, the limit distance may be set shorter than the reference distance. For example, the reference distance can be set in the range of 1m to 3m, and the limit distance can be set to 5cm.

In practice, the case where the user approaches within the above-mentioned limit distance is the case where the user intentionally places the user's hand (a part other than the hand or another object is also possible) in front of the user proximity sensor 152 in order to change the mode.

In order to reflect the user's intention to change the mode, it may be determined that the first reference state is detected only when a certain period of time has elapsed when the user approaches the limit distance. The limit distance and reference distance can be set and changed by the user.

For example, when the user runs the application of the remote device 2 and inputs a reference distance registration command while standing in front of the refrigerator, the user detection sensor 151 determines the current distance between the user and the refrigerator as the reference distance. can be registered.

In the same way, when the user executes the application of the remote device 2 with the user's hand close to the user detection sensor 151 and inputs a limit distance registration command, the user detection sensor 151 detects the current user and The distance between refrigerators can be registered as a limit distance.

As another example, when the first reference state is detected, for example, it may be a case where the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 154 is detected to be less than the limit illuminance for mode change for a certain period of time.

At this time, the limited illuminance may be the same as or different from the reference illuminance described above. The limit illuminance can be set and changed by the user.

In reality, when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 154 is below the limit illuminance, the user intentionally places his or her hand in front of the illuminance sensor 154 to change the mode.

In order to reflect the user's intention to change the mode, it may be determined that the first reference state has been detected only after a certain period of time has elapsed when the illuminance is detected below the limit.

In this way, when it is determined that the first reference state is detected by the detection unit 15, the control unit 13 changes the operating mode of the refrigerator 1 from the first mode to the second mode. .

As another example, when the first reference state is detected, for example, the knock detection sensor 152 may detect that more than a standard number of knocks for mode change have been input during the set time.

For example, if the user knocks on the door equipped with the knock detection sensor four or more times during a set time, it may be determined that a mode change command has been entered.

In this embodiment, the first reference state and the second reference state may be the same.

If the second reference state is different from the first reference state, the limit distance or limit illuminance may be set differently, the length of the certain time may be set differently, or the reference number may be set differently.

That is, for detection of the first reference state, a first limit distance may be set, and for detection of the second reference state, a second limit distance may be set.

Alternatively, for detection of the first reference state, a first limit illuminance and a first time may be set, and for detection of the second reference state, a second limit illuminance and a second time may be set.

Alternatively, for detection of the first reference state, a first reference number may be set, and for detection of the second reference state, a second reference number may be set.

As another example, steps S2 and S4 may be replaced with a step of determining whether a mode change command has been detected using the manipulation unit 14.

For example, a mode change command can be input using a plurality of buttons constituting the operation unit 14.

For example, after the user unlocks the buttons by pressing the lock button 143 for the reference time, if two or more buttons are pressed sequentially or simultaneously during the mode change reference time, it may be determined that a mode change command has been entered. You can.

Alternatively, regardless of whether the buttons are locked, if the lock button 143 and one or more of the remaining buttons are pressed during the mode change reference time, it may be determined that a mode change command has been input.

Alternatively, if the manipulation unit 14 includes a mode change button, it may be determined that a mode change command is input by pressing the mode change button.

When inputting a mode change command using the manipulation unit 14 or the detection unit 15, there is an advantage that no additional button or additional structure for the mode change command is required.

As another example, steps S2 and S4 may be replaced with a step of determining whether a mode change command has been detected using the voice input unit.

Next, the case of changing the mode in the remote device 2 will be explained.

For example, after an application is executed on the remote device 2, a mode change menu can be selected from the application.

When the mode change menu is selected on the application, a screen for changing the mode may be displayed on the display unit of the remote device 2.

On the screen, a button for changing a mode and a selection unit for individually selecting each of a plurality of functions may be displayed.

For example, a user may change from a first mode to a second mode and select limited functions in the second mode. Functions not selected by the user may not be restricted in the second mode. That is, unrestricted functions can be performed equally in the first mode and the second mode.

When the second mode is selected and fully set in the remote device 2 (when all of the plurality of functions are restricted), an icon to notify that the second mode has been selected is displayed on the screen, or the color or brightness of the screen changes. can be changed.

When the second mode is selected and individually set in the remote device 2 (when some of the plurality of functions are restricted), an icon to notify that the second mode has been selected is displayed on the screen, or the color or brightness of the screen is changed. can be changed, and at the same time, information on individually set functions can be displayed.

Meanwhile, when the mode is changed, the light source 362 and/or the output unit 18 may operate to notify the mode change. For example, when the mode is changed, the light source 362 may be turned on/off twice or more or notification information may be output from the output unit 18 to notify the mode change.

Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 11, the refrigerator 1 may detect the occurrence of a specific event or determine that a specific event has occurred (S11).

The functions performed by the refrigerator may vary depending on the event.

Below, a plurality of functions that the refrigerator can perform according to events will be described.

The first function among the plurality of functions may refer to a function of controlling the light source 362 when detecting user proximity.

For example, when it is detected that the user is approaching the refrigerator within the reference distance, the light source may change from the first state to the second state.

When the user detection sensor 151 detects that the user is within the reference distance, it may be determined (or detected) that an event for performing the first function has occurred.

The second function among the plurality of functions may be a function to control the light source 362 when the door 20 is detected to be open or closed.

For example, when detecting the opening of one of a plurality of doors, the light source of one or more doors among the open door and/or the closed door may change from the first state to the second state. Alternatively, when detecting that one of the plurality of doors is opened and then closed, the light source of one or more doors among the opened and closed door and/or the doors surrounding it may be changed from the first state to the second state.

When the door opening/closing detection unit 153 detects the opening or closing of the door 20, it may be determined (or detected) that an event for performing the second function has occurred.

The third function among the plurality of functions is to control the light source 362 of the open door and/or the door adjacent to the open door or the output unit ( It may be a function that controls 18).

For example, when the door closing is not detected until the opening reference time has elapsed after the opening of one of the plurality of doors is detected, the light source of at least one of the open doors and/or doors in the closed state is illuminated by the first door. The state can be changed to the second state. Alternatively, a sound to notify the door sliding state may be output from the output unit 18.

Alternatively, simultaneous operation of the light source 362 and the output unit 18 is also possible.

If the door opening/closing detection unit 153 does not detect the door closing until the opening reference time has elapsed after the door is opened, it may be determined (or detected) that an event for performing the third function has occurred.

The fourth function among the plurality of functions may refer to a function of controlling the operation of the light source 362 differently depending on the time period.

For example, in a first time period, the light source 362 may operate in a first state, and in a second time period after the first time period, the light source 362 may operate in a second state.

When the current time reaches the start time of each time zone, it may be determined (or detected) that an event for performing the fourth function has occurred.

The fifth function among the plurality of functions may be a function of controlling the light source 362 or the output unit 18 during the voice command input process by the voice input unit.

In the process of inputting a voice command by the voice input unit, or in a state where the input of the voice command is completed, the light source 362 may change from the first state to the second state, or a sound may be output from the output unit 18. there is.

When an input of a voice command is detected through the voice input unit, it may be determined (or detected) that an event for performing the fifth function has occurred.

The sixth function among the plurality of functions is a function to control the light source 362 and/or the output unit 18 for schedule notification when the user inputs a specific schedule and notification time on the remote device or display.

When the current time reaches the notification time of a specific schedule, it may be determined (or detected) that an event for performing the fifth function has occurred.

In this embodiment, the functions that the refrigerator can perform are not limited to the functions mentioned above, and various additional functions can be performed.

In step S11, when it is detected that a specific event has occurred in the refrigerator, the control unit 11 can determine whether the current operating mode of the refrigerator is set to the first mode (S12).

When the set mode is the first mode, the control unit 13 can change the light source 362 from the first state to the second state or operate the output unit 18 (S13). Alternatively, the control unit 13 may change the light source 362 from the first state to the second state and operate the output unit 18.

On the other hand, when the set mode is the second mode, the control unit 13 can maintain the light source 362 in the first state or change it to the third state. Alternatively, the control unit 13 may inactivate the output unit 18 even if it is detected that a specific event has occurred.

Alternatively, when the set mode is the second mode, the control unit 13 may maintain the light source 362 in the first state or change to the third state and deactivate the output unit 18. .

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the first function performed by the refrigerator for each mode, FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the state of the light source when the door is closed, and FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the second function performed by the refrigerator for each mode.

In relation to the first function, for example, when the user detection sensor 152 does not detect that the user is within the reference distance, the light source 362 maintains the off state, as shown in (a) of FIG. 12. You can.

In the first mode, when the user detection sensor 152 detects that the user is within a reference distance, the light source 362 of one or more doors 20 of the plurality of doors changes from the first state to the second state. It can be.

In the case of Figure 12 (b), for example, the light source 362 of each of the first door 211 and the second door 212 is shown to be turned on.

On the other hand, in the second mode, when the user detection sensor 152 detects that the user is within a reference distance, the light source 362 of each of the plurality of doors 20 may remain in an off state. Alternatively, as shown in (c) of FIG. 12, the light source 362 of each of the first door 211 and the second door 212 may be changed from the first state to the third state.

In this embodiment, the light source 362 operating in the first mode and the light source 362 operating in the second mode may be different. For example, when a specific event occurs in the first mode, the light source of the first door 211 and/or the second door 213 may be activated. On the other hand, when a specific event occurs in the second mode, the third door 213 and/or the fourth door 214 may operate. As in this embodiment, the light source operating in the second mode is the light source of the lower door, and when the light source 362 operates in the second mode, the user's feeling of glare can be reduced.

For example, the second state is a state in which the light source 362 is turned on and irradiates light of a first color, and the third state is a state in which the light source 362 is turned on and irradiates light of a second color. It can be. The first color and second color can be changed by the user.

Alternatively, the second state is a state in which the light source 362 is turned on and light of the first color is radiated at a first intensity, and the third state is a state in which the light source 362 is turned on and light of the first color is irradiated. It may be a state of investigation into the second century, which is smaller than the first century. The first intensity and the second intensity can be changed by the user.

Alternatively, the second state may be a state in which some or all of the plurality of LEDs are turned on, and the third state may be a state in which fewer LEDs are turned on than the number of LEDs turned on in the second state. .

Alternatively, the light source turned on in the second state may be different from the light source turned on in the third state.

Referring to FIG. 13 in relation to the second function, when the door is closed, the light source 362 of each of the plurality of doors may be in the first state. For example, the light sources 362 of all doors may be in an off state.

In the first mode, for example, when the opening of the first door 211 is detected, the light source 362 of one or more doors among the plurality of doors may change from the first state to the second state.

For example, as shown in (a) of FIG. 14, the light source 362 of the first door 211 and the second door 212, which is the upper door, is turned on, or as shown in (b) of FIG. 14, the light source 362 of the lower door 211 is turned on. The light source 362 of the third door 213 and the fourth door 214 may be turned on.

On the other hand, in the second mode, for example, when the opening of the first door 211 is detected, the light source 362 of one or more doors 20 is maintained in the first state or is changed to the first state as shown in (c) of FIG. 14. It can be changed from state 1 to state 3.

The examples of the second and third states described in relation to the first function in FIG. 12 can be equally applied to the second and third states in relation to the second function in FIGS. 13 and 14 .

Meanwhile, with regard to the third function, when a specific event occurs in the first mode, the light source 362 may change from the first state to the second state or the output unit 18 may operate. On the other hand, when a specific event occurs in the second mode, the light source 362 may maintain the first state or change from the first state to the third state. Additionally, the output unit 18 may not operate.

In relation to the fourth function, when a specific event occurs in the first mode, the light source 362 may change from the first state to the second state. On the other hand, in relation to the fourth function, when a specific event occurs in the second mode, the light source 362 may maintain the first state.

Regarding the fifth function, when a specific event occurs in the first mode, the light source 362 can change from the first state to the second state, and the output unit 18 can operate. . On the other hand, when a specific event occurs in the second mode, the light source 362 can maintain the first state, the output unit 18 does not operate, or the sound generated from the output unit 18 is reduced. You can.

Regarding the sixth function, when a specific event occurs in the first mode, the light source 362 may change from the first state to the second state, or the output unit 18 may operate. On the other hand, when a specific event occurs in the second mode, the light source 362 can maintain the first state, the output unit 18 does not operate, or the sound generated from the output unit 18 is reduced. You can.

Meanwhile, when individual settings are made through the remote device 2, the second mode is changed to the first mode in the refrigerator 1, and the first mode is changed to the second mode in the refrigerator 1. When changed to , the second mode may include all settings.

According to this embodiment, when a specific event occurs, the state of the light source provided in the door can be changed, so the user can easily recognize the refrigerator or approach the refrigerator, and the aesthetic sense is improved.

In addition, since it is possible to select a mode that restricts changes in the state of the light source despite the occurrence of a specific event, the operation of the light source or the operation of the output unit can be prevented from interfering with the user.

According to this embodiment, the user can select any one mode among a plurality of modes related to changing the state of the light source, which improves user convenience and has the advantage of satisfying the user's various preferences.

According to this embodiment, there is an advantage that a command for changing between the first mode and the second mode can be easily input.

This embodiment has the advantage of being able to set whether the state of the light source changes or the state change pattern of the light source for each event, thereby improving user convenience and satisfying various preferences of users.

Claims (21)

Cabinets providing space;
A door that opens and closes the space and has a light source; and
It includes a control unit that controls the light source,
The door includes a front plate,
Light irradiated from the light source passes through the front plate,
Home appliances can operate in the first mode or the second mode,
A control unit for changing the mode between the first mode and the second mode,
A communication unit capable of communicating with an external remote device,
It further includes a detection unit for detecting the user's proximity or opening and closing of the door,
When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit controls the light source to change from the first state to the second state,
When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit controls the light source to maintain the first state or change from the first state to the third state,
In the first mode, a plurality of functions can be performed, and in the second mode, some or all of the plurality of functions are limited,
When the first mode is changed to the second mode by the operation unit, all of the plurality of functions are limited,
When the first mode is changed to the second mode through the remote device, some of the plurality of functions can be restricted,
The detection unit detects that the user is within a standard distance, the detection unit detects the opening or closing of the door, or the detection unit detects the door being closed until the standard opening time has elapsed after opening the door. If not, the home appliance is determined to have occurred the above-mentioned specific event. delete delete delete According to claim 1,
A home appliance in which the operating unit includes a plurality of buttons, and the mode is changed when two or more buttons among the plurality of buttons are pressed sequentially or simultaneously. According to claim 1,
Further comprising a detection unit for mode change between the first mode and the second mode,
A home appliance in which the first mode is changed to the second mode or the second mode is changed to the first mode when a reference state is detected by the mode change detection unit. According to claim 6,
The detection unit for changing the mode includes an illuminance sensor,
A home appliance whose mode is changed when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is detected to be below a limit illuminance for a certain period of time. delete According to claim 1,
A home appliance that changes to the second mode when the current time becomes the start time of the second mode, and changes to the first mode when the current time becomes the end time of the second mode. According to claim 1,
The first state is a state in which the light source is turned off, and the second state and the third state are a state in which the light source is turned on. According to claim 10,
The second state is a state in which the light source is turned on and radiates light of a first color, and the third state is a state in which the light source is turned on and irradiates light of a second color, or
The second state is a state in which the light source is turned on and light of the first color is irradiated at a first intensity, and the third state is a state in which the light source is turned on and the light of the first color is irradiated at a second intensity lower than the first intensity. is being investigated, or
The second state is a state in which some or all of the plurality of LEDs included in the light source are turned on, and the third state is a state in which a fewer number of LEDs than the number of LEDs turned on in the second state is turned on. . According to claim 11,
A home appliance in which at least one of the first color, second color, first century, second century, and number of LEDs that are turned on can be changed. According to claim 11,
The door includes a plurality of doors,
Each of the plurality of doors includes a light source,
The light source operating in the second state and the light source operating in the third state are different home appliances. delete delete delete delete delete Cabinets providing space;
A door that opens and closes the space and has a light source;
An output unit that outputs sound information;
A communication unit capable of communicating with an external remote device; and
In order to perform the function of the home appliance, it includes a control unit that controls the light source and the output unit,
The door includes a front plate,
Light irradiated from the light source passes through the front plate,
Home appliances can operate in the first mode or the second mode,
A plurality of functions may be performed in the first mode,
In the second mode, some or all of the plurality of functions are restricted,
Mode change between the first mode and the second mode is possible through the control panel,
In order to limit the function, the number of outputs or operations of one or more of the light source and the output unit is limited,
The first mode may be selected or the second mode may be selected in the remote device,
When the first mode is changed to the second mode by the operation unit, all of the plurality of functions are limited,
When the first mode is changed to the second mode through the remote device, some of the plurality of functions can be restricted,
When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit causes the output unit to operate,
When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit operates the output unit so that the output unit does not operate or generates a sound smaller than the sound of the output unit in the first mode. According to claim 19,
When another event occurs in the first mode, the control unit controls the light source to change from the first state to the second state,
When the other event occurs in the second mode, the control unit controls the light source so that the light source maintains the first state or changes from the first state to a third state. delete

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