KR20210156164A - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention relates to a refrigerator which comprises: a cabinet forming a storage space; and a door for opening and closing the storage space. The door includes: a door body filled with an insulating material and having upper and lower exteriors formed by an upper cap deco and a lower cap deco; and a panel assembly provided on a front surface of the door body to form a front exterior of the door. A lower end of the panel assembly is restrained by inserting a lower protrusion protruding upward from the lower cap deco, and in an upper end of the panel assembly, an upper fastening member fastened through the upper cap deco is fastened and mounted on the body.

Description

refrigerator { Refrigerator }

The present invention relates to a refrigerator.

BACKGROUND ART In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at a low temperature in an internal storage space shielded by a refrigerator door. It is configured to store the stored food in an optimal state.

As such, refrigerators are gradually becoming larger and multifunctional in accordance with changes in dietary habits and the trend of luxury products, and refrigerators having various structures and convenience devices in consideration of user convenience are being released.

In addition, in order to harmonize with the environment in which the refrigerator is disposed or with surrounding furniture or home appliances, structures for varying the exterior of the front door of the refrigerator are being opened.

US Patent No. 8789900 discloses a structure in which a decorative panel forming an exterior is mounted on the front door of a refrigerator. In addition, a plurality of restraining bridges are disposed on both sides of the rear surface of the decorative panel, and brackets inserted from both ends of the door are coupled to the bridge to provide a structure in which the decorative panel can be mounted.

However, in this prior art, since a plurality of brackets must be mounted from the outside for panel mounting, there is a problem in that productivity is lowered, and there is a problem in that an accurate mounting position cannot be maintained according to the workability of an operator. In particular, there is a problem of impairing the appearance of the bracket for coupling is exposed to both sides of the door.

Japanese Patent No. 6460832 discloses a structure in which a glass panel forming an exterior is mounted on the front door of a refrigerator. In addition, a plurality of recessed grooves are formed in the front portion of the door body, and multi-stage bent installation portions are formed on the rear surface of the glass panel, and the installation portions are inserted into the recessed grooves to disclose a structure in which the glass panel can be mounted. has been

However, in the prior art, it is not easy to precisely couple the plurality of installation parts on the rear surface of the glass panel to the grooves of the door body, and thus there is a problem in that workability and productivity are deteriorated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator having an improved appearance by preventing a structure for mounting a panel assembly from being exposed to the outside.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a refrigerator capable of maintaining a rigidly mounted state of a panel assembly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator in which a panel assembly can be easily mounted and detached.

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, a cabinet forming a storage space; and a door for opening and closing the storage space, the door comprising: a door body filled with an insulating material and having upper and lower exteriors formed by upper cap deco and lower cap deco; and a panel assembly provided on a front surface of the door body to form a front exterior of the door, wherein a lower end of the panel assembly is constrained by inserting a lower protrusion protruding upward from the lower cap deco, and the panel assembly The upper end of the upper fastening member that is fastened through the upper cap deco may be fastened to be mounted on the body.

The panel assembly may include: a panel that forms a front exterior of the door and is formed in a plate shape; an upper bracket disposed along the upper end of the rear surface of the panel and to which the fastening member is fastened; and a lower bracket disposed along a lower end of the rear surface of the panel, wherein an insertion portion into which the lower protrusion is inserted may be formed on a lower surface of the lower bracket.

The panel may be formed of a tempered glass material.

The panel may be formed of a metal material, and a bent portion extending rearwardly may be formed around the panel.

A bent part opening communicating with the insertion part is formed in a bent part formed along a lower end of the panel among the bent parts, and the lower protrusion may be inserted into the insert part through the bending part opening.

A lower fastening boss may be formed on the lower surface of the lower bracket to which the lower cap deco and the lower fastening member penetrating the bent portion in turn are fastened.

Among the bent portions, the bent portion formed along the upper end of the panel may include a first bent portion bent backward from the upper end of the front surface of the panel, and a second bent portion bent downward from the rear end of the first bent portion.

The upper cap deco and the lower cap deco include an upper support end and a lower support end protruding forward to face the bent portions of the upper and lower ends of the panel, and the lower protrusion may be formed along the lower support end.

The upper bracket may include: an upper bonding unit in contact with the rear surface of the panel; It may include an upper fastening protrusion that protrudes backward from the upper adhesive part and to which the upper fastening member is fastened.

An upper rib that protrudes more than a rear end of the bent part may be provided at an upper end of the upper bonding part.

The upper fastening protrusion may extend in an inclined direction toward the rear and upward, and a screw hole to which the upper fastening member is fastened may be formed at an upper end of the upper fastening protrusion.

An upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion may have a protrusion inclined surface having an inclination that decreases toward the rear, and the screw hole may be formed on the protrusion inclined surface.

An evacuation portion may be formed at the rear end of the upper fastening protrusion to be inclined more than the protrusion inclined surface to prevent interference with the upper cap deco when the panel assembly is mounted.

An upper fastening part through which the upper fastening member passes may be formed on the front surface of the upper cap deco facing the upper fastening protrusion.

The upper cap deco may have a recessed space with an open upper surface, and the upper coupling part may be exposed to the inside of the recessed space, and the upper coupling member may be fastened through the recessed space.

The upper cap decor may be provided with a decor cover for opening and closing the recessed space.

The upper fastening part may be recessed to the rear to accommodate the upper fastening protrusion, and may protrude into the recessed space.

The upper fastening part is formed to have an inclination corresponding to the protrusion inclined surface, and a fastening part inclined surface is formed in contact with the protruding inclined surface when the panel assembly is mounted, and the upper fastening member passes through the fastening part inclined surface and the protruding inclined surface in turn. can be contracted to do so.

When the panel assembly is mounted on the door body so that the lower protrusion is inserted into the insertion part, the protrusion inclined surface and the fastening part inclined surface may contact each other.

The door body is formed of a steel material and includes a front plate spaced apart from the rear surface of the panel to form a front surface of the door body, and the panel assembly is magnetically attached to the front plate on the rear surface of the panel. A magnet may be provided.

In the refrigerator according to the proposed embodiment, the following effects can be expected.

In the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, the front exterior of the refrigerator may be formed by mounting the panel assembly. In addition, the panel assembly may be replaceable and mountable if necessary. Accordingly, when the built-in installation is performed, it is possible to install a panel assembly that matches the surrounding furniture or wall. In addition, even when a plurality of refrigerators are continuously arranged, there is an advantage in that the appearance can be harmonized.

In addition, the panel assembly may have a structure in which the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly are fixedly light-constrained by the upper cap-deco and the lower cap-deco, and thus the appearance of the panel assembly can be improved because the coupling structure is not exposed to the outside when viewed from the front.

Also, a magnet may be disposed on the rear surface of the panel assembly, and left and right side ends of the panel assembly may be attached to the door body by the magnet. Accordingly, the entire circumference of the panel assembly may be maintained in a stable bonding state without exposing the components for bonding the panel assembly.

In addition, the lower end of the panel assembly has a structure in which a lower protrusion is primarily inserted into the insertion groove of the lower bracket, and the lower end of the panel assembly is primarily fixed to the upper and lower fastening members of the panel assembly. by fastening the panel assembly to the upper cap deco and the lower cap deco.

That is, the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly are firmly fixed to the upper cap deco and the lower cap deco by the coupling by the lower protrusion as well as the coupling of the upper fastening member and the lower fastening member, so that the panel assembly is mounted. can be maintained.

In addition, there is an advantage that the panel assembly can maintain a more firmly coupled state with the door body by the adhesion force between the panel and the front surface of the door body by the magnet.

In addition, the lower end of the panel assembly is inserted into the lower protrusion, and the fastening member can be maintained in a state in which it is temporarily fixed by a magnet, thus making it easier to fasten the fastening member. There is an advantage.

In particular, in a state in which the lower end of the panel assembly is fixed, the upper end of the panel assembly is naturally aligned with the upper fastening protrusion and the upper fastening portion to facilitate fastening of the upper fastening member.

And, since the upper fastening protrusion and the upper fastening part formed to be inclined have a structure in which the upper fastening member can be fastened in an oblique direction, the upper fastening member can be fastened in a state in which the panel assembly is laid down. Accordingly, a space for the fastening operation can be secured, and there is an advantage that the fastening operation is further facilitated.

In addition, the upper fastening part is disposed inside the recessed space of the upper cap deco, and the inside of the recessed space can be shielded by mounting a decor cover after the upper coupling member is fastened. Accordingly, it is possible to further improve the appearance by preventing exposure of the structure for fixing the upper fastening member and the panel assembly.

In addition, after the fastening member is separated, the panel assembly may be easily separated by lifting the panel assembly to separate the coupling between the lower end of the panel assembly and the lower protrusion.

1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed.
2 is a perspective view of the refrigerator.
3 is an exploded perspective view of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention.
4 is an exploded perspective view of a door body according to an embodiment of the present invention in which the door body is disassembled.
5 is an exploded perspective view of the door body as viewed from the rear.
6 is a perspective view of an upper cap deco, which is a configuration of the door body.
7 is a perspective view taken along VII-VII' of FIG. 6 .
8 is a perspective view of a lower cap deco, which is a configuration of the door body.
9 is a perspective view of a side frame that is one configuration of the door body.
10 is a perspective view of a panel assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the rear.
11 is an exploded perspective view of the panel assembly.
12 is a perspective view of an upper bracket that is a component of the panel assembly.
13 is a perspective view taken along XIII-XIII' of FIG. 2;
14 is a perspective view taken along XIV-XIV' of FIG. 2 .
15 is a perspective view of a lower bracket that is a component of the panel assembly.
16 is a perspective view taken along line XVI-XVI' of FIG. 2 .
17 is a perspective view taken along XVII-XVII' of FIG. 2 .
18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII' of FIG. 2 .
19 is a view schematically illustrating a state before the panel assembly is mounted on the door body.
20 to 22 are views sequentially illustrating a change in position of an upper end of the panel assembly when the panel assembly is mounted.
23 is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which the panel assembly is mounted to the door body.
24 is a view schematically illustrating a state in which fastening members are fastened to upper ends and lower ends of the panel assembly mounted on the door body.
25 is a view showing a state in which the upper end of the panel mounting part is fixed.
26 is a rear view of a panel assembly mounted on the refrigerators of FIG. 1 .
27 is a rear perspective view of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.
28 is a cutaway perspective view illustrating a state in which the panel assembly is mounted.
29 is a rear perspective view of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

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

Before the description, the direction is defined. According to the embodiment of the present invention, the direction in which the front of the door faces as shown in FIG. 2 is forward, the direction toward the cabinet with respect to the front of the door is in the rear, and the direction toward the floor where the refrigerator is installed is downward, and away from the floor. The direction can be defined as upward.

1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed. And, Figure 2 is a perspective view of the refrigerator.

As shown in the drawing, the refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention has an overall appearance by a cabinet 10 forming a storage space with an open front and doors 20 and 30 for opening and closing the storage space. can be formed.

In addition, the refrigerator 1 may be mounted in harmony with the furniture or the wall O of the indoor space. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the refrigerator 1 may be installed in an indoor space such as a kitchen, and may be arranged adjacent to furniture or a wall O so as to be in harmony. That is, a space corresponding to the size of the refrigerator 1 is provided on the furniture or the wall O, and the refrigerator 1 may be accommodated or may be arranged in a built-in type.

In addition, other refrigerators 1 ′ may be continuously arranged in parallel on the side of the refrigerator 1 . That is, a space in which a plurality of refrigerators 1 and 1 ′ can be arranged may be provided by furniture or a wall O. As shown in FIG.

The plurality of refrigerators 1 and 1 ′ may have the same structure, and refrigerators 1 and 1 ′ having various structures may be arranged in combination as needed. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , in the refrigerator 1 disposed on the right side, the door 20 may be disposed vertically. That is, the refrigerator 1 on the right side may be configured such that the door 20 that opens and closes in a rotational manner is provided at the upper side, and the door 30 that opens and closes in a sliding manner is provided at the lower side. In addition, the refrigerator 1 disposed side by side on the left side may be configured such that the upper storage space is opened and closed by the pair of doors 20a and 20b and the lower storage space is opened and closed by the pair of doors 20c. In addition, the doors 20a, 20b, and 20c may be configured to open and close in a rotational manner, and these doors 20a, 20b, and 20c may be referred to as French-type doors.

Meanwhile, the same panel assemblies 50 , 50a , 50b , 50c and 50d may be mounted on the doors 20 , 30 , 20a , and 20c of the refrigerator 1 on the left and the refrigerator 1 on the right side. The panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d form the front surfaces of the doors 20, 30, 20a, and 20c, and thus form the exterior of the refrigerator 1, 1' when viewed from the front. will do Of course, any one door 20b of the doors of the refrigerator 1' on the left has a different appearance and may be configured to have a see-through function inside. As such, the remaining doors 20, 30, 20a, and 20c except for the door 20b having a specific function may be formed to have the same exterior.

That is, the doors 20, 30, 20a, and 20c of the refrigerators 1 and 1' can be mounted with panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d having the same structure but different in size. have. Accordingly, even when a plurality of refrigerators 1 are disposed, the same appearance such as color and texture can be formed. Of course, the panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d may use materials having different colors or different textures as needed.

Also, since the panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d have a detachable structure, it may be possible to select and install those having an appropriate appearance according to the environment in which the refrigerator 1, 1' is installed. have.

When the refrigerator 1 is mounted on furniture or a wall O, the exterior of the refrigerator 1 is made of the same material or material having the same texture as the furniture or wall O, and the adjacent furniture or The exterior of the wall O and the refrigerator may be made to have a sense of unity with each other. Of course, even if the exterior of the refrigerator 1 and the furniture or wall O do not have a sense of unity, it will be preferable to provide a material that can harmonize.

In addition, the refrigerator 1 is disposed adjacent to the adjacent refrigerator 1 ′, furniture or wall O, and adjacent refrigerator 1 is not interfered with when the doors 20 and 30 are opened and closed. , can be placed close to furniture or wall (O).

The panel assembly (50, 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d) structure and mounting structure of the present invention may be the same in both the refrigerator 1' on the left and the refrigerator 1 on the right, thus avoiding duplication of description below. In order to do this, the structure of the refrigerators 1 and 1' in FIG. 1 will be described in more detail with reference to the refrigerator 1 on the right side.

The refrigerator 1 may have an exterior formed by the cabinet 10 and the doors 20 and 30 . In addition, the cabinet 10 may form a storage space divided up and down. In addition, the doors 20 and 30 for opening and closing the storage space may be continuously arranged in the vertical direction.

An upper door 20 may be provided in the upper storage space, and a lower door 30 may be provided in the lower storage space. The upper door 20 may open and close the upper storage space by rotation. Accordingly, the upper door 20 may be referred to as a rotary door. In addition, the lower door 30 may be drawn in and out in a drawer type to open and close the storage space below, and the lower door 30 may be called a drawer type door.

The lower door 30 may be provided with two upper and lower doors, and the lower storage space opened and closed by the lower door 30 consists of one space, or a space in which each of the lower doors 30 is accommodated. may be partitioned.

Meanwhile, the front exteriors of the upper door 20 and the lower door 30 may be formed by panel assemblies 50 , 50a and 50b . The panel assemblies 50 , 50a , and 50b provided in the upper door 20 and the lower door 30 , respectively, may have the same appearance only different in size.

Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation and understanding, the panel assembly 50 and the mounting structure of the panel assembly 50 will be described with reference to the upper door 20 . And, hereinafter, the upper door 20 may be referred to as a door 20 .

3 is an exploded perspective view of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention. And, Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the door body according to an embodiment of the present invention is disassembled from the front. And, FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the door body as viewed from the rear.

As shown in the drawing, the door 20 is filled with an insulating material (in FIG. 16 , 400 ), a door body 40 that substantially opens and closes the storage space, and a panel mounted on the door body 40 . assembly 50 may be included.

The door body 40 may have a predetermined thickness, and may be filled with an insulating material 400 therein to insulate the storage space. In addition, the panel assembly 50 may be mounted on the front surface of the door body 40 to form front exteriors of the door 20 and the refrigerator 1 . The panel assembly 50 may be easily detachably mounted on the door body 40 , and the panel assembly 50 can be easily detached even when the door 20 is mounted on the cabinet 10 . It can have one structure.

Accordingly, the panel assembly 50 may be mounted in consideration of the appearance of the furniture or wall O, and the panel assembly 50 of a design desired by a user may be mounted or exchanged if necessary.

Looking at the structure of the door body 40 , the door body 40 as a whole includes a front plate 41 , a side frame 45 , an upper cap decor 42 , a lower cap decor 44 , and a door liner 47 . ) and a gasket 48 . And, the inside of the door body 40 may be filled with a heat insulating material (400).

In detail, the front plate 41 forms the front surface of the door body 40 and may be formed in a plate shape. The front plate 41 may be formed of a steel material, and forms a surface facing the rear surface of the panel assembly 50 .

In addition, a plurality of screw holes 414 may be formed along the circumference of the front plate 41 . Screws fastened to the upper cap decor 42 and the lower cap decor 44 and the side frames 45 on both sides may be fastened to the screw hole 414 .

The upper cap deco 42 and the lower cap deco 44 are respectively disposed at the upper end and lower end of the front plate 41 to form the upper and lower surfaces of the door body 40 . In addition, the side frames 45 are coupled to both left and right ends of the front plate 41, and the upper and lower ends of the side frame 45 are respectively connected to the upper cap deco 42 and the lower cap deco 44 and can be connected

The door liner 47 may be coupled to the rear surfaces of the upper cap deco 42 , the lower cap deco 44 , and the side frame 45 . The door liner 47 may be formed in a plate shape to form a rear surface of the door body 40 . The door liner 47 may be formed of a plastic material, and may be vacuum-formed to form the shape of the rear surface of the door body 40 .

A gasket groove 471 may be formed around the rear surface of the door liner 47 , and the gasket 48 may be disposed along the gasket groove 471 . The gasket 48 may be in contact with the circumference of the cabinet 10 when the door 20 is closed to seal the storage space.

Hereinafter, the main components constituting the door body 40 will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

6 is a perspective view of an upper cap deco, which is a configuration of the door body. And, FIG. 7 is a perspective view taken along VII-VII' of FIG. 6 .

As shown in the drawing, the upper cap deco 42 may form an upper portion of the door 20 and may form an upper surface of the door 20 exposed to the outside in an assembled state. In addition, the upper cap decor 42 may be configured to support the front plate 41 , the door liner 47 , and upper ends of the side frame 45 .

In detail, the upper cap deco 42 may be formed of a plastic material, and may include a front surface 421 , a rear surface 423 , and both side surfaces 426 . A front plate 41 may be coupled to the front surface 421 , a door liner 47 may be coupled to the rear surface 423 , and the side frames 45 may be coupled to the left and right side surfaces 426 , respectively.

In addition, a recessed space 420 having an open upper surface may be formed in the upper cap deco 42 , and a screw may be fastened to the upper end of the panel assembly 50 through the recessed space 420 . Also, a PCB for controlling the electric components provided in the door 20 may be accommodated inside the recessed space 420 . In addition, the recessed space 420 may extend to the lower end of the upper cap decor 42 , and the rear surface 423 may be formed in a flat shape during injection molding. On the other hand, the opened upper surface of the recessed space 420 may be shielded by the decoration cover (43). That is, the decorative cover 43 may form most of the exterior of the upper surface of the door 20 .

A plurality of screw holes 431 may be formed along the decoration cover 43 . In addition, a cover support boss 425 extending upward may be formed inside the recessed space 420 corresponding to the screw hole 431 . The cover support boss 425 may be formed at a position corresponding to the screw hole 431 , and may extend to support the decoration cover 43 from below when the decoration cover 43 is mounted. In addition, the screw passing through the screw hole 431 may be fastened to the upper surface of the cover support boss 425 so that the decorative cover 43 is fixed.

In addition, an upper fastening part 424 to which an upper fastening member 424d for coupling with an upper bracket 53 to be described in detail below is fastened may be formed inside the recessed space 420 . The upper fastening part 424 may be formed at a position corresponding to the upper fastening protrusion 533 protruding from the upper bracket 53 . For example, the upper fastening part 424 may be formed in a position spaced apart from each other in a pair of left and right sides based on the center of the upper cap deco 42 . That is, the upper fastening portion 424 may be formed one at each of both ends of the upper cap deco 42 , and may be further formed on the inner side spaced apart from both ends.

The upper fastening portion 424 includes an upper extension portion 424a extending along the front surface of the recessed space 420, an upper inclined surface 424b of an upper end of the upper extension portion 424a, and the upper inclined surface 424b. An upper screw hole 424c to be formed may be included.

The upper extension portion 424a may be formed such that a portion of the front surface 421 is depressed to accommodate the upper fastening protrusion 533 , and may protrude from the inside of the depression space 420 . In addition, the upper extension portion 424a may extend upward to a lower position than the decoration cover 43 . For example, the upper extension portion 424a may be formed to have a height equal to or slightly lower than a height of the cover support boss 425 . Accordingly, the upper fastening member 424d can be easily fastened to the screw hole 424c formed on the upper surface of the upper extension part 424a in a state in which the decoration cover 43 is opened. For example, the upper fastening member 424d may be a screw.

An upper inclined surface 424b may be formed on an upper surface of the upper extension part 424a. The upper inclined surface 424b may be formed to have a downward inclination such that the rear end is lower than the front end. In addition, the upper screw hole 424c to which the upper fastening member 424d is fastened may be formed on the upper inclined surface 424b. Therefore, when assembling the door 20, it is easy to secure a space for the fastening operation of the upper fastening member 424d through the recessed space 420 in a state where the rear side of the door 20 faces the floor. do.

On the other hand, the front surface of the upper cap deco 42 may be formed in a shape in which the lower portion protrudes more rearward than the upper portion. In addition, an upper plate coupling portion 421a supporting the front plate 41 from the rear may be formed on the front surface of the upper cap deco 42 . The upper plate coupling portion 421a may extend from the left end to the right end of the upper cap decor 42 , and may be formed such that a plurality of ribs and grooves are vertically and continuously arranged at regular intervals. In addition, the upper plate coupling portion 421a and the upper cap deco 42 may be coupled by a screw. And, when the foaming liquid is injected into the lower portion of the upper cap deco 42 for molding the heat insulating material 400, the upper cap deco 42 and the front plate ( 41) can be joined. In addition, the upper plate coupling portion 421a may be formed to pass through the lower end of the upper extension portion 424a.

In addition, an upper support end 422 protruding forward may be formed on the upper end of the front surface of the upper cap deco 42 . The upper support end 422 may protrude forward and support the upper end of the panel assembly 50 . The protruding length of the upper support end 422 may be shorter than the thickness of the panel assembly 50 , so that the upper support end 422 is supported forward of the panel assembly 50 while the panel assembly 50 is mounted. The end 422 may not protrude. Accordingly, when viewed from the front, the upper panel assembly 50 may be completely exposed, and the upper support end 422 may be prevented from being excessively exposed.

8 is a perspective view of a lower cap deco, which is a configuration of the door body.

As shown in the drawing, the lower cap deco 44 may be formed of a plastic material, may form a lower portion of the door body 40 and may form a lower surface of the door body 40 . The lower cap deco 44 may include a lower surface 441 , a front surface 442 , a rear surface 444 , and both side surfaces 443 as a whole. In addition, the lower cap deco 44 may form a space 440 having an open upper surface, and the insulating material 400 may be filled inside the space.

The front surface 442 may support the lower end of the front plate 41 from the rear. In addition, the both side surfaces 443 may support the lower end of the side frame 45 from the inside. In addition, the rear surface 444 may support the lower end of the door liner 47 from the front.

As such, it is closed inside by the front plate 41, the side frame 45, and the door liner 47 coupled to the front surface 442, both side surfaces 443 and the rear surface 444 of the lower cap deco 44. A space 440 may be formed, and the heat insulating material 400 may be filled in the space 440 .

A lower plate coupling portion 442a supporting the front plate 41 from the rear may be formed on the front surface of the lower cap deco 44 . The lower plate coupling portion 442a may extend from the left end to the right end of the front surface, and may slightly protrude forward to support the front plate 41 from the rear. In addition, a plurality of screws passing through the front plate 41 may be fastened.

A lower support end 445 extending forward may be formed at the lower end of the front surface 442 of the lower cap deco 44 . The lower support end 445 may be formed so that the lower surface 441 of the lower cap deco 44 extends past the lower end of the front surface 442 of the lower cap deco 44 .

The lower support end 445 may protrude to support the lower end of the panel assembly 50 , and the protruding length of the lower support end 445 may be formed to be shorter than the thickness of the panel assembly 50 . can Accordingly, it is possible to minimize the exposure of the lower support end 445 when viewed from the front so that the entire front surface of the door 20 appears to be formed by the panel assembly 50 .

Meanwhile, a lower protrusion 445a protruding upward may be formed at a lower end of the lower support end 445 . The lower protrusion 445a is inserted into a lower bracket 54 to be described below to restrain the lower end of the panel assembly 50 .

A plurality of the lower protrusions 445a may be formed at regular intervals along the lower support end 445 . In addition, the lower protrusion 445a may be spaced apart from the front surface of the lower cap deco 44 . An opening 445c may be formed in the lower support end 445 between the lower protrusion 445a and the front surface 442 . When the lower cap deco 44 is injection-molded, the lower protrusion 445a can be formed by the opening 445c.

In addition, a plurality of lower fastening holes 445b may be formed in the lower support end 445 . The lower fastening hole 445b may be formed so that a lower fastening member 545b fastened through the lower support end 445 from below passes. The lower fastening member 545b passes through the lower fastening hole 445b and is fastened to the lower bracket 54, and the lower end of the panel assembly 50 seated on the lower support end 445 is firmly fixed. can make it happen

9 is a perspective view of a side frame that is one configuration of the door body.

As shown in the drawing, the side frame 45 connects between the upper cap decor 42 and the lower cap decor 44, and at the same time connects the front plate 41 and the door liner 47. will connect In addition, the side frame 45 may form both side surfaces of the door body 40 .

The side frame 45 may be formed to extend long in the vertical direction, and may be extruded from a metal material. For example, the side frame 45 may be formed of an aluminum material. Accordingly, the side frame 45 may make the side appearance of the door 20 more luxurious. In addition, the side frame 45 may prevent deformation by reinforcing the strength of the door 20 . In particular, the side frame 45 is equipped with a receiving member 46 coupled to the panel fixing member 55 , and firmly supports the part on which the panel assembly 50 is mounted, so that the panel assembly 50 is stable. It is possible to ensure the maintenance of the mounted state and the prevention of deformation of the door body 40 .

The side frames 45 on both sides of the left and right sides may be formed in the same shape, and may be disposed in a direction facing each other. That is, the side frames 45 on both sides may be formed to be symmetrical with respect to the center of the door body 40 . Accordingly, in order to prevent overlapping description, the side frame 45 on one of the left and right sides will be described.

Looking at the structure of the side frame 45 in more detail, the side frame 45 may include a frame side surface 451 , a frame front surface 452 , and a frame rear surface 458 .

In detail, the frame side surface 451 forms a surface exposed to the side of the door body 40 and may be formed in a planar shape. An upper end of the frame side surface 451 may contact the upper cap deco 42 , and a lower end of the frame side surface 451 may contact the lower cap deco 44 .

In addition, the frame front surface 452 may extend inward from the front end of the frame side surface 451 . The frame front surface 452 may be formed to support both left and right ends of the front plate 41 . The frame front surface 452 may extend from an upper end to a lower end of the side frame 45 and may be formed perpendicular to the frame side surface 451 .

Hereinafter, the panel assembly 50 will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

10 is a perspective view of a panel assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the rear. And, FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the panel assembly.

As shown in the drawing, the panel assembly 50 has a size corresponding to the size of the front surface of the door body 40 , and the entire front surface of the door 20 is mounted on the door body 40 . may be configured to form an appearance.

The panel assembly 50 may include a plate-shaped panel 52 forming an exterior, and an upper bracket 53 and a lower bracket 54 for fixing upper and lower ends of the panel 52 . In addition, the panel assembly 50 may further include a magnet 56 for attaching the rear surface of the panel 52 and the front surface of the door body 40 to each other.

In detail, the panel 52 may be formed of a rectangular plate-shaped material having a predetermined thickness, and may be formed of a material that can harmonize with the furniture or wall O or home appliances disposed around it. .

For example, the panel 52 may be formed of a plate-shaped metal material such as stainless steel. In addition, printing, coating, or film attachment may be performed on the front surface of the panel 52 to have a color or pattern, and the exterior of the door 20 may be formed.

On the other hand, the panel 52 maintains a stable support state when mounted on the door body 40, and bent portions 51, 522, 523 may be formed along the circumference so that the cross section of the panel 52 is not exposed to the outside. . Accordingly, the outer surface of the peripheral surface of the panel 52 may be formed by the bent portions 521 , 522 , and 523 . And, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted, the upper support end 422 of the upper cap deco 42, the lower support end 445 of the lower cap deco 44, and the side of the side frame 45 The support end 451a may be disposed to be in contact with or adjacent to each other. In addition, the extended length of the bent portions 521 , 522 , and 523 , that is, the thickness of the circumferential surface of the panel 52 is greater than the protrusion heights of the upper support end 422 , the lower support end 445 , and the side support end 451a. can be formed large. Accordingly, when viewed from the front, the exterior of the entire front surface of the door 20 can be seen by the panel 52 , and the upper support end 422 , the lower support end 445 , and the side support end 451a are connected to the outside. can be prevented from being exposed.

The bent portions 521 , 522 , and 523 include an upper bent portion 521 formed at the upper end of the circumference of the panel 52 , side bent portions 522 formed at left and right opposite ends of the panel 52 , and the panel 52 . It may include a lower bent portion 523 formed at the lower end of the circumference.

In detail, the upper bent part 521 includes a first bent part 521a bent backward from the top of the panel 52 and a second bent part 521a bent downward from the extended end of the first bent part 521a. A bent portion 521b may be included. Accordingly, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted, the sharp end of the panel 52 is not in direct contact with the upper cap decor 42 by the second bent portion 521b to prevent the upper cap decor 42 from being directly contacted. damage can be prevented.

The side bent part 522 may be bent rearward at both left and right ends of the panel 52 , and may protrude rearward by the same height as the upper bent part 521 and the lower bent part 523 .

The lower bent portion 523 may be bent backward from the lower end of the panel 52 . In addition, the lower bent part 523 may have a bent part opening 524 into which the lower protrusion 445a may be inserted. The bent opening 524 is formed along the lower bent part 523 , and a plurality of openings 524 may be formed at positions corresponding to the plurality of lower protrusions 445a protruding from the lower support end 445 . In addition, a bent part screw hole 525 may be further formed in the lower bent part 523 . The bent screw hole 525 is a hole through which the lower fastening member 545b fastened to the lower bracket 54 passes. can be formed.

In addition, an upper bracket 53 and a lower bracket 54 may be provided at the upper and lower ends of the rear surface of the panel 52 , respectively. The upper bracket 53 and the lower bracket 54 may be configured such that upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 50 can be fixedly mounted to the door body 40 .

The upper bracket 53 and the lower bracket 54 may extend along upper and lower ends of the panel 52 , and may have lengths corresponding to the left and right widths of the panel 52 . In addition, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted, it may have a structure that is respectively fastened to the upper cap decor 42 and the lower cap decor 44 .

In addition, magnets 56 may be provided at both left and right ends of the panel 52 . The magnet 56 may be attached to the rear surface of the panel 52 by an adhesive or magnetic force. The magnet 56 may extend from the top to the bottom of the panel 52 . Also, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted to the door body 40 while the magnet is attached to the panel 52 , the magnet 56 may be attached to the front panel 52 by magnetic force. have. That is, the mounting of the panel assembly 50 may be aided by the magnet 56 .

Hereinafter, the structure of the upper bracket 53 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

12 is a perspective view of an upper bracket that is a component of the panel assembly. And, FIG. 13 is a perspective view taken along XIII-XIII' of FIG. 2 . And, FIG. 14 is a perspective view taken along XIV-XIV' of FIG. 2 .

As shown, the upper bracket 53 may be mounted on the upper end of the panel 52 , and may be formed to have a length corresponding to a horizontal width of the panel 52 . In addition, the upper bracket 53 may be injection-molded of a plastic material, and includes an upper adhesive part 531 having a flat shape, an upper rib 532 on the upper part of the upper adhesive part 531 , and the upper adhesive part 531 . It may include an upper fastening protrusion 533 provided.

In detail, the front surface of the upper bonding part 531 may be formed in a planar shape, and may be adhered to the upper end of the rear surface of the panel 52 . In this case, an adhesive may be applied to the front surface of the upper adhesive part 531 , and the upper bracket 53 may be firmly fixed to the panel 52 by the adhesive.

The upper bracket 53 has a predetermined vertical width, the upper rib 532 is formed on the upper end of the upper bonding part 531 , and the upper fastening protrusion 533 is disposed below the upper rib 532 . It can have any possible width. The upper end of the upper bracket 53 may be positioned adjacent to the upper end of the panel 52 , but spaced apart from the upper support end 422 so as not to interfere with the upper end of the upper bracket 53 .

The upper rib 532 may be formed along an upper end of the upper bracket 53 . In addition, the upper rib 532 may protrude rearward and come into contact with the front surface of the upper cap deco 42 . Accordingly, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 may be supported by the upper cap decor 42 . In addition, in a state in which the upper rib 532 is in contact with the front surface of the upper cap deco 42, the upper fastening protrusion 533 is in contact with the upper fastening part 424 to facilitate fastening of the upper fastening member 424d. You can even guide you to do it.

Meanwhile, a reinforcement part 532a connecting the upper rib 532 and the upper bonding part 531 may be formed on a lower surface of the upper rib 532 . The reinforcing parts 532a may be continuously formed at regular intervals along the upper rib 532 .

The upper fastening protrusion 533 may protrude rearward from the rear surface of the upper adhesive part 531 , and may protrude from a position corresponding to the upper fastening part 424 of the upper cap deco 42 . The upper fastening protrusion 533 may protrude further rearward than the upper rib 532 , and may be formed to contact the upper fastening portion 424 when the panel assembly 50 is mounted.

In detail, the upper fastening protrusion 533 may protrude backward and upward from the upper bonding part 531 . In addition, the cross-sectional area may be formed to decrease toward the rear from the upper bonding portion 531 .

In addition, the upper fastening protrusion 533 may be inserted into the upper extension portion 424a formed on the front surface of the upper cap decor 42 when the panel assembly 50 is coupled. That is, the upper fastening protrusion 533 may be formed to correspond to the recessed shape of the upper extension part 424a.

A protrusion inclined surface 533a formed to be inclined may be formed on the upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion 533 . The protrusion inclined surface 533a may have a downward inclination that decreases toward the rear. In addition, the protrusion inclined surface 533a may be formed to have a corresponding inclination to the upper inclined surface 424b. Accordingly, when the panel assembly 50 is accurately mounted on the front surface of the door body 40 , the protrusion inclined surface 533a may be in close contact with the upper inclined surface 424b.

In addition, the screw hole 533b may be formed in the protrusion inclined surface 533a. An upper fastening member 424d passing through the upper fastening part 424 may be fastened to the screw hole 533b. Accordingly, when the upper fastening member 424d is fastened to pass through the upper fastening part 424 while the upper end of the panel assembly 50 is disposed on the front surface of the door body 40, the upper fastening member 424d may be fastened to the screw hole 533b of the upper fastening protrusion 533 so that the protrusion inclined surface 533a and the upper inclined surface 424b are in close contact with each other. In this state, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 may be firmly fixed to the door body 40 .

In addition, an evacuation portion 533c may be further formed on the upper surface of the upper fastening member 424d. The evacuation part 533c may be formed to be hard on the upper surface of the upper fastening member 424d. In detail, the evacuation part 533c may be formed to be inclined downward from the rear end to the rear end of the protrusion inclined surface 533a. In this case, the inclination of the evacuation part 533c may have a greater inclination than the protrusion inclined surface 533a, and therefore, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted to the door body 40, the upper cap deco 42 ) may not interfere with the protruding portion of the upper fastening member 424d.

Meanwhile, the upper bracket 53 may be located at the upper end of the panel 52 , and the height from the upper end of the panel 52 to the upper bracket 53 is from the upper end of the panel 52 to the gasket ( 48) can be formed higher than the height of up to

Accordingly, the upper bracket 53 can be located substantially outside the gasket 48, and thus does not affect the thermal insulation performance of the storage space. That is, even if the front surface of the upper cap deco 42 corresponding to the upper bracket 53 is mounted and has a structure in which the thickness is relatively thin due to inclination and depression, the corresponding position is an area that is not affected by the cold air in the refrigerator. Accordingly, dew condensation does not occur and the thermal insulation performance of the door 20 is not deteriorated. That is, the upper bracket 53 is disposed outside the gasket 48 , and may be located outside the heat insulating area.

Hereinafter, the structure of the lower bracket 54 will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

15 is a perspective view of a lower bracket that is a component of the panel assembly. And, FIG. 16 is a perspective view taken along line XVI-XVI' of FIG. 2 . And, FIG. 17 is a perspective view taken along XVII-XVII' of FIG. 2 .

As shown in the drawing, the lower bracket 54 may be injection-molded from a plastic material, and may be provided at the lower end of the panel 52 . In addition, the lower bracket 54 may be formed to extend to a length corresponding to the left and right widths of the panel 52 . In addition, the upper and lower widths of the lower bracket 54 may be formed to have at least an upper and lower length in which the lower fastening boss 545 can be formed.

The lower bracket 54 may be caught and constrained by the lower cap deco 44, and a lower fastening member 545b penetrating the lower cap deco 44 is fastened so that the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is It can be firmly fixed to the door body 40 . For example, the lower fastening member 545b may be a screw.

In detail, the lower bracket 54 may include a lower bonding portion 541 mounted on the rear surface of the panel 52 . The lower adhesive part 541 may be formed in a planar shape, and may be attached to the rear surface of the panel 52 by an adhesive. The lower bracket 54 may be positioned so that a lower end thereof corresponds to a lower end of the panel 52 in a state in which the lower adhesive portion 541 is attached to the rear surface of the panel 52 .

In addition, a lower protrusion 543 protruding backward from the lower bonding unit 541 may be formed at the rear of the lower bonding unit 541 . The lower protrusion 543 may extend from one side of the lower bonding unit 541 to a position corresponding to the lower end of the lower bonding unit 541 .

A lower insertion portion 544 having an open lower surface may be formed on a lower surface of the lower protrusion 543 . That is, the lower insertion part 544 may be formed in a shape recessed upwardly from the lower surface of the lower bracket 54 , and the lower protrusion 445a of the lower cap deco 44 may be inserted thereinto. can The lower insertion part 544 may be formed over the entire lower surface of the lower bracket 54 . In addition, the lower insertion part 544 may be formed at a position opposite to the bent part opening 524 formed in the lower bent part 523 of the panel 52 .

Accordingly, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted in the original position of the door body 40 , the lower protrusion 445a passes through the bent opening 524 and is inserted into the lower insert 544 . and a lower end of the panel assembly 50 may be fixed. When the lower protrusion 445a is inserted into the bending opening 524 and the lower inserting part 544, the panel assembly 50 will be lifted before the fastening members 424d and 545b are fastened. In this case, it can be said to be in a state of being temporarily fixed because it becomes a state in which it can be separated again.

Meanwhile, a lower fastening boss 545 may be formed in the lower bonding part 541 . The lower fastening boss 545 may protrude from the rear surface of the lower bonding part 541 , and may extend from the lower end to the upper end of the lower bracket 54 .

In addition, a screw hole 545a may be formed on a lower surface of the lower fastening boss 545 . The lower fastening boss 545 may extend downward through the lower protrusion 543 . Accordingly, the screw hole 545a formed on the lower surface of the lower fastening boss 545 may be formed at a position corresponding to the position of the opened lower surface of the lower insertion part 544 .

The screw hole 545a may be formed at a position corresponding to the screw hole 445b formed in the lower cap decor 44 and the bent screw hole 525 formed in the lower bent portion 523 . Accordingly, the lower fastening boss 545 is formed at a position corresponding to the bent part screw hole 525 and the screw hole 445b, and may be formed in a corresponding number. For example, three lower fastening bosses 545 may be formed, one at the center and one at both left and right sides of the lower bracket 54 .

When the panel assembly 50 is mounted on the door body 40 so that the lower protrusion 445a is inserted into the bent opening 524 and the lower insertion part 544, the lower cap deco 44 The screw hole 445b, the bent part screw hole 525, and the screw hole 545a may be aligned with each other. And, when the screw 545b is fastened to pass through the screw hole 445b of the lower cap deco 44 and the bent screw hole 525 in this state, the screw 545b is the lower bracket ( 54 , so that the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is firmly fixed to the lower bracket 54 .

Meanwhile, the lower bracket 54 may be located at the lower end of the panel 52 , and the height h1 from the lower end of the panel 52 to the lower bracket 54 is the height of the gasket 48 . It can be formed lower than (h2). In this case, the height of the gasket 48 may be from the lower end of the panel 52 to the center of the gasket mounting part 481 .

Accordingly, the lower bracket 54 can be located substantially outside the gasket 48, and thus does not affect the thermal insulation performance of the storage space. That is, even if the front surface of the lower cap deco 44 corresponding to the lower bracket 54 is installed and has a structure in which the thickness is relatively thin, the corresponding position is not affected by the cold air in the refrigerator, so dew condensation occurs. not only does not occur, but also does not cause deterioration of the thermal insulation performance of the door 20 . That is, the lower bracket 54 is also located outside the insulating area outside the gasket 48 to prevent deterioration of the insulating performance of the door 20 .

Hereinafter, the arrangement structure of the magnet 55 will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVIII-XVIII' of FIG. 2 .

As shown in the drawing, the magnet 56 may be provided on the rear surface of the panel 52 to assist in mounting the panel assembly 50 . The magnet 56 may be formed to extend long in the vertical direction, and may be formed to extend in the vertical direction along left and right both ends of the panel 52 .

One side of the magnet 56 may be adhered to the back surface of the panel 52 , and the other side of the magnet 56 may be magnetically applied to the front plate 41 when the panel assembly 50 is mounted to the door body 40 . can be attached by

Meanwhile, the magnet 56 may be disposed on the side portion 511 on both sides of the front plate 41 . Accordingly, the thickness of the magnet 56 corresponds to the distance between the rear surface of the panel 52 and the front surface of the front panel 52 , that is, the side portion 511 when the panel assembly 50 is mounted. can be formed.

A magnetic force may be applied to the panel assembly 50 and the front plate 41 in a pulling direction by the magnet 56 , so that the panel assembly 50 further extends the front surface of the door body 40 . You will be able to stay attached to the

In addition, the magnet 56 may be disposed in a space between the panel assembly 50 and the front plate 41 . Accordingly, the thickness of the door body 40 is not affected, and the thermal insulation performance of the door 20 is not deteriorated.

Hereinafter, a process in which the panel assembly 50 is mounted to the door 20 of the refrigerator 1 having the above structure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

19 is a view schematically illustrating a state before the panel assembly is mounted on the door body.

As shown in the drawing, the door 20 may be assembled by mounting the panel assembly 50 to the door body 40 . To this end, the panel assembly 50 is completed by mounting the upper bracket 53 , the lower bracket 54 , and the panel fixing member 55 to the panel 52 . Then, after assembling the front panel 52, the side frame 45, the upper cap deco 42, the lower cap deco 44, and the receiving member 46, respectively, a heat insulating material 400 is molded therein to form the door. The body 40 is completed.

In addition, the panel assembly 50 is disposed for mounting on the front surface of the door body 40 in an assembled state. In this case, the rear surface of the panel assembly 50 is directed to the front side of the door body 40 , and the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is positioned above the lower support end 445 to fix the panel. The locking part 556 of the member 55 is disposed at a position where it can be inserted through the plate opening 412 and the frame opening 453 of the front side of the door body 40 .

In detail, the panel assembly 50 is moved from the front to the rear to approach the front surface of the door body 40 , and at the same time moves from the upper side to the lower side to approach the front side of the door body 40 .

At this time, the lower protrusion 445a of the lower support end 445 passes through the bent opening 524 and is inserted into the lower insertion part 544 so that the lower end of the panel assembly 50 can be restrained. have.

Therefore, in the panel assembly 50, the downward movement is restricted by the lower protrusion 445a and the lower bracket 54, and the movement in the front-rear direction is restricted by the panel fixing member 55. can be

That is, the panel assembly 50 is brought to the front of the door body 40 for mounting the panel assembly 50 , and in this case, the lower end of the panel assembly 50 supports the lower cap deco 44 . It is to be fixed to the stage (445).

As such, the user first temporarily restrains the lower end of the panel assembly 50 to the door body 40 and then brings the upper end of the panel assembly 50 into close contact with the upper cap decor 42 .

Meanwhile, the state of the upper end of the panel assembly 50 when the panel assembly 50 is mounted will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

20 to 22 are views sequentially illustrating a change in position of an upper end of the panel assembly when the panel assembly is mounted.

As illustrated, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted, the lower protrusion 445a is moved downward to be inserted into the lower insertion part 544 of the lower bracket 54 . At this time, the panel assembly 50 is moved downward in a tilted state so that the lower end is closer to the door body 40 side than the upper end, and the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is attached to the lower support end 445 . It can be temporarily fixed as it is seated.

In this case, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 may be moved downward to pass through the upper support end 422 , as shown in FIG. 20 . In addition, an upper rib 532 may protrude from an upper end of the rear surface of the panel assembly 50 . The upper rib 532 protrudes further rearward than the upper bent portion 521 , and thus may come into contact with the upper support end 422 while the panel assembly 50 is moved downward. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the upper support end 422 from being scratched or damaged as the sharp upper end of the panel 52 comes into contact with the upper support end 422 .

And, when the lower protrusion 445a is inserted into the lower insertion part 544, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 is in a state as shown in FIG. 21, and the upper rib 532 and the upper bent part 521 are ) is in a state positioned below the upper support end 422 .

In a state where the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is supported and temporarily fixed by the lower support end 445 , the user rotates the upper end of the panel assembly 50 so that it is in close contact with the front surface of the upper cap deco 42 . do.

When the upper end of the panel assembly 50 is completely rotated, as shown in FIG. 22 , the upper bent part 521 may come into contact with the upper support end 422 . In addition, the upper bracket 53 may be in close contact with the upper cap deco 42 , and the upper fastening protrusion 533 may be in close contact with the upper fastening part 424 so that the upper fastening member 424d is fastened. can be a possible state.

23 is a view schematically illustrating a state in which the panel assembly is mounted on the door body.

As shown in the drawing, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted on the front surface of the door body 40, the panel assembly 50 includes the upper support end 422, the lower support end 445, and the side, respectively. The support end 451a is positioned inside the region to be formed, and may be disposed to be in contact with each other.

In a state in which the panel assembly 50 is mounted on the front surface of the door body 40 , the lower protrusion 445a penetrates the lower bent portion 523 and is inserted into the lower bracket 54 . . Accordingly, the panel assembly 50 may not be easily separated by its own weight in a state in which the lower end is restrained. The upper end of the panel assembly 50 may be in a state in which the upper fastening protrusion 533 is in close contact with the upper fastening portion 424 .

In particular, the panel assembly 50 can be maintained attached to the front surface of the door body 40 by the magnet 56 attached to the rear surface of the panel assembly 50 . Accordingly, the panel assembly 50 can maintain a state temporarily fixed to the front surface of the door body 40 .

24 is a view schematically illustrating a state in which fastening members are fastened to upper ends and lower ends of the panel assembly mounted on the door body. And, Fig. 25 is a view showing a state in which the upper end of the panel mounting part is fixed.

As shown in the drawing, in a state in which the panel assembly 50 is disposed on the front side of the door body 40, the fastening members 424d and 545b are fastened to firmly secure the upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 50. can be fixed

In detail, in a state in which the panel assembly 50 is mounted on the front surface of the door body 40 , the screw hole 445b of the lower cap deco 44 and the bent part screw hole 525 of the panel 52 are formed. The screw holes 545a of the lower bracket 54 may be aligned with each other. And, when the screw 545b is fastened to pass through the screw hole 445b and the bent part screw hole 525 in this state, the screw 545b is the screw hole 545a of the lower bracket 54 . ) so that the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is firmly fixed to the lower bracket 54 .

Also, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted on the front surface of the door body 40 , the upper end of the upper bracket 53 comes into contact with the upper cap deco 42 . In particular, the upper fastening protrusion 533 of the upper bracket 53 comes into contact with the upper fastening portion 424 of the upper cap deco 42 .

In detail, as shown in FIG. 25 , when the panel assembly 50 is mounted, the upper fastening protrusion 533 may be inserted into the upper extension part 424a. And, in a state in which the upper fastening protrusion 533 is inserted into the upper extension part 424a, the protrusion inclined surface 533a of the upper fastening protrusion 533 is formed with the upper inclined surface 424b of the upper extension part 424a and come into contact with each other. In addition, the screw hole 533b of the protrusion inclined surface 533a and the screw hole 424c of the upper inclined surface 424b may be aligned with each other.

In this state, the user can fasten the upper fastening member 424d through the recessed space 420 of the upper cap deco 42 . The upper fastening member 424d may pass through the screw hole 424c of the upper inclined surface 424b to be fastened to the screw hole 533b of the protruding inclined surface 533a. The upper fastening member 424d may be fastened in a direction crossing the upper inclined surface 424b and the protruding inclined surface 533a. Accordingly, the panel assembly 50 can be moved upwardly and backwardly according to the fastening of the upper fastening member 424d, and thus can be adjusted according to the fastening degree of the upper fastening member 424d.

The upper end of the panel assembly 50 may be fixed to the upper cap deco 42 by fastening the upper fastening member 424d. In addition, the upper end of the panel assembly 50 may be in contact with the upper support end 422 or may maintain a predetermined interval.

And, when the door body 40 is installed in a lying state for assembly of the door 20, the upper fastening member 424d is inclined and the upper fastening member 424d passes through the recessed space 420. of the fastening operation can be performed more easily.

Meanwhile, the panel assembly 50 constitutes the front surface of the door 20 , and not only the upper door 20 but also the other doors 20a, 20b, 20c, and 30 may have the same structure.

26 is a rear view of a panel assembly mounted on the refrigerators of FIG. 1 .

As shown, the plurality of doors 20 , 20a , 20b , 20c and 30 constituting the refrigerators 1 and 1 ′ according to the embodiment of the present invention are all the same panel assembly as the panel assembly 50 . (50a, 50b, 50c, 50d) structure.

The doors 20 , 20a , 20b , 20c , and 30 may have the same structure as the panel assemblies 50 , 50a , 50b , 50c and 50d except that only the horizontal width and the vertical length are different. . That is, an upper bracket 53 and a lower bracket 54 may be mounted on the upper and lower ends of the panel 52, respectively, and the structures of the upper bracket 53 and the lower bracket 54 may all be the same. have.

In addition, the panel fixing member 55 may be mounted at both left and right ends between the upper bracket 53 and the lower bracket 54 . In this case, only the number of the panel fixing members 55 disposed in the vertical direction may be different according to the vertical length of the panel 52 , but the structure may be the same.

In addition, although the door bodies 40 constituting the doors 20, 20a, 20b, 20c, and 30 are not shown in detail, they all have the same structure or the same panel assemblies 50, 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d. It may have a bonding structure with

Meanwhile, the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may be capable of various other embodiments in addition to the above-described embodiments. Another embodiment of the present invention may have a structure in which only the magnet and the upper bracket are included in the panel assembly. All other exemplary embodiments of the present invention are the same except for the above-described exemplary embodiment and the configuration of the panel assembly, and the same reference numerals are used for the same components, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

27 is a rear perspective view of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention. And, FIG. 28 is a cutaway perspective view showing a state in which the panel assembly is mounted.

As shown in the drawing, the refrigerator door 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a door body 40 and a panel assembly 50 ′ mounted on the front surface of the door body 40 . .

The panel assembly 50 ′ has a size corresponding to the size of the front surface of the door body 40 , and is configured to form the appearance of the entire front surface of the door 20 in a state in which it is mounted on the door body 40 . can

The panel assembly 50 ′ may include a plate-shaped panel 52 forming an exterior, and an upper bracket 53 for fixing upper and lower ends of the panel 52 . In addition, the panel assembly 50 may further include a magnet 56 for attaching the rear surface of the panel 52 and the front surface of the door body 40 to each other.

In detail, the panel 52 may be formed of a rectangular plate-shaped material having a predetermined thickness, and may be formed of a material that can harmonize with the furniture or wall O or home appliances disposed around it. .

For example, the panel 52 may be formed of a plate-shaped metal material such as stainless steel. In addition, printing, coating, or film attachment may be performed on the front surface of the panel 52 to have a color or pattern, and the exterior of the door 20 may be formed.

On the other hand, the panel 52 maintains a stable support state when mounted on the door body 40, and bent portions 512, 522, 523 may be formed along the circumference so that the cross section of the panel 52 is not exposed to the outside. . Accordingly, the outer surface of the peripheral surface of the panel 52 may be formed by the bent portions 512 , 522 , and 523 .

The bent portions 521 , 522 , and 523 include an upper bent portion 521 formed at the upper end of the circumference of the panel 52 , side bent portions 522 formed at left and right opposite ends of the panel 52 , and the panel 52 . It may include a lower bent portion 523 formed at the lower end of the circumference.

Also, the lower bent portion 523 may be bent backward from the lower end of the panel 52 . In addition, the lower bent part 523 may have a bent part opening 524 into which the lower protrusion 445a may be inserted. The bent opening 524 is formed along the lower bent part 523 , and a plurality of openings 524 may be formed at positions corresponding to the plurality of lower protrusions 445a protruding from the lower support end 445 . In addition, a bent part screw hole 525 may be further formed in the lower bent part 523 . The bent screw hole 525 is a hole through which the lower fastening member 545b fastened to the lower bracket 54 passes. can be formed.

In addition, magnets 56 may be provided at both left and right ends of the panel 52 . The magnet 56 may be attached to the rear surface of the panel 52 by an adhesive or magnetic force. The magnet 56 may extend from the top to the bottom of the panel 52 . Also, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted to the door body 40 while the magnet is attached to the panel 52 , the magnet 56 may be attached to the front panel 52 by magnetic force. have. That is, the mounting of the panel assembly 50 may be aided by the magnet 56 .

The upper bracket 53 may extend along the upper end of the panel 52 , and may have a length corresponding to the left and right widths of the panel 52 . In addition, when the panel assembly 50 is mounted, it may be fastened to the upper cap decor 42 to constrain the upper end of the panel assembly.

In addition, the lower protrusion 445a of the lower end of the panel assembly 50 may be inserted into the bent opening 524 to be primarily fixed. Then, the lower fastening member 545b penetrates the screw hole 525 of the lower cap deco 44 and is fastened to the lower fastening boss 545 so that the lower end of the panel assembly 50 is secondarily fixed. can do.

Meanwhile, the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention may be capable of various other embodiments in addition to the above-described embodiments. In another embodiment of the present invention, the panel of the panel assembly may be formed of a tempered glass material. In another embodiment of the present invention, all other components except for the panel are the same as in the above-described embodiment, and the same reference numerals are used for the same components, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

29 is a rear perspective view of a panel assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawing, the refrigerator door 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a door body 40 and a panel assembly 50 ″ mounted on the front of the door body 40 . can

The door body 40 includes a front plate 41, a door liner 47, an upper cap decor 42, a lower cap decor 44, and a side frame 45 therein, and the front plate 41 ), the receiving member 46 may be mounted on the rear surface. The structure of the door body 40 may be completely the same as the structure of the above-described embodiment.

The panel assembly 50 ″ may be mounted on the front surface of the door body 40 to form a front exterior of the door 20 . The panel assembly 50 ″ may include a panel 51 , an upper bracket 53 , a lower bracket 54 , and a panel fixing member 55 . Specific structures and shapes of the upper bracket 53 , the lower bracket 54 , and the panel fixing member 55 except for the panel 51 may be the same as in the above-described embodiment.

In detail, the panel 51 may be formed of a rectangular plate-shaped material having a predetermined thickness, and may be formed of a material that can harmonize with the furniture or wall O or home appliances disposed around it. . For example, the panel 51 may be formed of a glass material. For example, the panel 51 may be formed of a tempered glass material, and the exterior of the door 20 may be formed by printing or attaching a film to have a color or a pattern.

In a state in which the panel 51 is mounted on the door body 40, upper and lower ends are supported by an upper support end 422 and a lower support end 445, respectively, and both ends of the panel 51 are mounted on the side support end 451a. It may be formed in a size that can be supported.

In addition, an upper bracket 53 and a lower bracket 54 may be provided at the upper and lower ends of the rear surface of the panel 51 , respectively. The upper bracket 53 and the lower bracket 54 may be configured such that upper and lower ends of the panel assembly 50 can be fixedly mounted to the door body 40 .

The upper bracket 53 is provided on the upper end of the panel 51 and may be formed to have the same horizontal length as the left and right lengths of the panel 51 . In addition, an upper rib 532 may be formed at the upper end of the rear surface of the upper bracket 53 , and the upper cap deco 42 and the upper fastening member 424d may be coupled to the lower side of the upper rib 532 . An upper fastening protrusion 533 may be formed.

The lower bracket 54 is provided at the lower end of the panel 51 , and may be formed to have the same horizontal length as the left and right side lengths of the panel 51 . In addition, a lower insertion part 544 into which the lower protrusion 445a of the lower cap deco 44 is inserted may be formed at the lower end of the lower bracket 54 , and a screw penetrating the lower cap deco 44 . A lower fastening boss 545 to which 545b is fastened may be formed.

Meanwhile, the magnet 56 may be provided on the rear surface of the panel 51 to assist in mounting the panel assembly 50 ″. The magnet 56 may be formed to extend long in the vertical direction, and may be formed to extend in the vertical direction along the side end of the panel fixing member 55 . In addition, a pair of the magnets 56 may be provided on both left and right sides.

One side of the magnet 56 may be adhered to the rear surface of the panel 51 , and the other side is attached to the front plate 41 when the panel assembly 50 ″ is mounted to the door body 40 . It can be attached by magnetic force.

Claims (20)

cabinets forming a storage space; and
and a door for opening and closing the storage space,
the door;
a door body filled with an insulating material and having upper and lower exteriors formed by upper cap deco and lower cap deco; and
a panel assembly provided on the front surface of the door body to form a front exterior of the door;
The lower end of the panel assembly is constrained by inserting a lower protrusion protruding upward from the lower cap deco,
An upper fastening member, which is fastened to an upper end of the panel assembly through the upper cap deco, is fastened to the upper end of the panel assembly, and is mounted on the body.
The method of claim 1,
The panel assembly,
a panel that forms the front exterior of the door and is formed in a plate shape;
an upper bracket disposed along the upper end of the rear surface of the panel and to which the fastening member is fastened; and
It includes a lower bracket disposed along the lower end of the rear panel,
A refrigerator in which an insertion portion into which the lower protrusion is inserted is formed on a lower surface of the lower bracket.
3. The method of claim 2,
The panel is a refrigerator formed of a tempered glass material.
3. The method of claim 2,
The panel is formed of a metal material,
A refrigerator in which a bent portion extending rearwardly is formed around the panel.
5. The method of claim 4,
A bent part opening communicating with the insertion part is formed in the bent part formed along the lower end of the panel among the bent parts,
The lower protrusion passes through the opening of the bent part and is inserted into the insertion part.
5. The method of claim 4,
A lower fastening boss is formed on a lower surface of the lower bracket to fasten the lower cap deco and a lower fastening member penetrating the bent portion in turn.
5. The method of claim 4,
Among the bent portions, a bent portion formed along the upper end of the panel,
a first bent portion bent backward from the top of the front surface of the panel;
and a second bent part bent downward from the rear end of the first bent part.
5. The method of claim 4,
The upper cap deco and the lower cap deco include an upper support end and a lower support end protruding forward to face the bent portions of the upper and lower ends of the panel,
The lower protrusion is formed along the lower support end.
5. The method of claim 4,
The upper bracket is
an upper adhesive portion in contact with the rear surface of the panel;
and an upper fastening protrusion protruding rearward from the upper bonding part and to which the upper fastening member is fastened.
10. The method of claim 9,
The refrigerator is provided with an upper rib that protrudes more than a rear end of the bent part at an upper end of the upper bonding part.
10. The method of claim 9,
The upper fastening projection,
The refrigerator extends obliquely toward the rear and the upper side, and a screw hole through which the upper fastening member is fastened is formed at an upper end of the upper fastening protrusion.
12. The method of claim 11,
An upper surface of the upper fastening protrusion may have a protrusion inclined surface having an inclination that decreases toward the rear, and the screw hole is formed on the protrusion inclined surface.
13. The method of claim 12,
A refrigerator having an evacuation part formed at the rear end of the upper fastening protrusion to be more inclined than the protrusion inclined surface to prevent interference with the upper cap deco when the panel assembly is mounted.
13. The method of claim 12,
A refrigerator in which an upper fastening part through which the upper fastening member penetrates is formed on a front surface of the upper cap deco facing the upper fastening protrusion.
15. The method of claim 14,
The upper cap deco may have a recessed space with an open upper surface,
The upper fastening part is exposed to the inside of the recessed space, and the refrigerator to which the upper fastening member is fastened through the recessed space.
16. The method of claim 15,
The upper cap deco refrigerator is provided with a deco cover for opening and closing the recessed space.
16. The method of claim 15,
The upper fastening part may be recessed rearward to accommodate the upper fastening protrusion, and the refrigerator protrudes into the recessed space.
13. The method of claim 12,
The upper fastening part is formed to have an inclination corresponding to the protrusion inclined surface, and a fastening part inclined surface in contact with the protruding inclined surface is formed,
The upper fastening member is fastened to sequentially pass through the fastening part inclined surface and the protrusion inclined surface.
19. The method of claim 18,
When the panel assembly is mounted on the door body so that the lower protrusion is inserted into the insertion part, the protrusion inclined surface and the fastening part inclined surface contact each other.
3. The method of claim 2,
The door body is formed of a steel material, and includes a front plate spaced apart from the rear surface of the panel to form a front surface of the door body,
The refrigerator is provided with a magnet on the rear surface of the panel so that the panel assembly is attached to the front plate by magnetic force.

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