SG188718A1 - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

REFRIGERATOR[Abstract][Object' To provide a refrigerator which can make a user realize the order in which a 5 plurality of switches provided in an operation panel are to be operated, thereby improving the operability of the operation panel.[Solution] An operation panel 7 includes a chamber selection switch 8a to select one of a plurality of chambers for which operation setting is to be performed: one or more setting switches to perform the operation settings of the chambers; a currently 10 selected-chamber display 9a to display information specifying one of the chambers selected by use of the chamber selection switch 8a; and a setting display unit to display information indicating the operation settings of the chambers. Information to be displayed is sequentially displayed on the currently-selected-chamber display 9a and the setting display unit in accordance with the order in which the chamber 15 selection switch 8a and the setting switches are operated.[Selected Figure] Fig. 5

Description

[Name of Document] DESCRIPTION

Title of invention] REFRIGERATOR {Technical Field] 0001] § The present invention relates to refrigerators, and more specifically, it relates to the operability of an operation pans! thereof. [Background Ar] 10002

In recent years, as distary habits have become move diverse, refrigerators having a plurality of chambers (storages compartments} of different temperature bands have begome mainstream among refrigerators used by users. The temperature of gach of the chambers of such a refrigerator can be set slightly lower or slightly higher in accordance with the user's preference. Further, many refrigerators have a temperatura-swilching compariment whose temperature can be freely satin the range 18 from a refrigeration temperature of about 3°C to a freezing temperature of about - 18°C.

[0003] in a refrigerator having a plurality of chambers {storage compartments) as described above, the temperature setting of each chamber can be controlled via an operation pane! provided on the surface or the like of the door of the refrigerator. however, a control switch was provided for each of the chambers, switches of the operation pans! would increase In number by the number of chambers with making the operation complicated, which would result in an increase in the size of the operation panel and thus a broader installation space being needed and also an

J8 increase in cost 0004]

Moreover, since the sizes of the operation panel and the installation space theraof cannot be greatly increased from a design standpoint, in the case where the numbers of switches and display elements are increased, the sizes of characters and numbers or the space for each display slement need to be reduced, which may lead to reduced visibility or erronsous operation, 0005]

As a refrigerator having temperature control switches for respective chambers, & there has been proposed a refrigerator that includes a temperature display unit and a temperature setling switch for each of a refrigerator companiment and a freezer comparimant on the front surface of the refrigerator compartment (see Patent

Literature 1, for example). In this refrigerator, one switch is operated for the selling of only one chamber, and one temperature display unit performs display for only ane 18 chamber. While a temperature display unit usually displays the current interior temperate, the above refrigerator is configured such that, If the temperature setting switch is operated, the temperature display unit temporarily stops displaying the interior temperature, and displays a target set temperature instead, If the setting switch is operated again after the set temperature is displayed, the temperature selling level is changad by one level. Alter completion of adjustment through the operation of the temperature setting switch, if the temperaitre setling switch is not pressed for a predetermined time period or mors, the display is switched back to the terior temperatire. The operation panel having the configuration described above can display two information ems, the current interior lemperature and the target set famperature, in one display area, resulting in a reduction in the display area of the operation pane! and an inorease in size being suppressed, 13008]

However, since the above refrigerator is configured {o include the switches dedicated to the respective chambers, If the number of chambers which are desired a8 to be satis increased, switches need to be increased in number by thal increment, and also the size of the operation panel nesds to be increased. As an example refrigerator that solves this problem, thers is a refrigerator which includes a changeover switch for switching between soraens for a plurality of chambers, such as a refrigerator compartment, 8 vegelable compartment, 8 switching compartment, and a freezer compartment, each of the screens displaying the interior temperature, the sat temperature, the operation status, and the Bke of the corresponding chamber, and which can display the sellings, the inferior temperature, the set temperature, the operation siatus, and the like of the selecled chamber switched over via the changeover swilch (ses Patent Lilerature 2, for example). Because this refrigerator has a soresn for each chamber and is configured such that by switching between the screens via the changeover switch, the contents displayed at one time can be restricted, the size of and space for each display element can be set larger

Moreover, because the refrigerator nead only have the same number of switches as the number of functions, common to the chambers, of changing the set lamperature, putting In a rapid cooling mode, and the ke, instead of having the same number of switches as the number of chambers, # is possible to suppress an increase in the size, complication, and an increases in the cost of the operation panel dus to an increase in the number of switches. {Citation LisY {Hatent Literature] 007] [Patent Literature 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-208454 (Page 3, Fig. 1) [Patent Literature 2] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No, 2003-85854 (Page 4, Fig. 2) [Summary of Invention] {Tachnical Problem] 13008]

According to Patent Literature 2, the disclosed refrigerator includes a changeover switch for switching between screens for a plurality of chambers, such as a refrigerator compartment, a vegetable compartment, a switching compartment, and a freezer compartment, sach of the screens displaying the interior temperature, the sof temperature, the operation satus, and the like of the corresponding chamber, and which includes an operation pane! that displays the sellings, the interior temperature, the set lemperaturs, the operation status, and the like of a specific chamber switched over via this changsover switch, so that i is possible to suppress an increase in the size, complication, and an increase in the cost of the operation panel.

However, thers is the problem that, since the switch for switching between the screens for the respective chambers (storage compartments) and the switch for & changing the temperature setting exist separately, it is hard to realize which switches arg to be operated in what order, 0006]

Also, there is the problem that, since only the chamber currently selected and the selling Information thereof are displayed when the switch for switching between 18 the screens for the respective chambers or the switch for changing the temperature setling is operated, {is hard to realize what operation can be performed via which switch, {G00

The present invention was made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is {0 provide a refrigerator which can make a user realize in what order to operate 8 plurality of swilchas provided in the operation panel, so that the operability of the operation panel can be improved.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator which can make a user realize what operation can be performed via the switches provided in the operation panel, so that the operability of the operation panel can be improved. {Solution to Problemy

HURRY

A refrigerator according to the present invention comprises a plurality of storage compartments; and an operation pane! configured to allow performing 28 aperation selling on each of the storage compartments. The operation panel includes a selection switch configured to allow selecting one of the plurality of storage compartments for which operation setling is to be performed; one or more sstling switches {0 be operated to perform the operation ssetling on the storages compartments; a selected chamber display unit to display information indicating the storage compartment selecled by use of the selection switch; and a selling display unit fo display information about the operation satiings of the storage compartments. information fo be displayed is sequentially displayed on the selecled-chambaer display unit and the selling display unit in accordance with an order in which the selsction switch and the setting switches are operated. {Advantageous Effects of Invention] 0012]

The present invention can make a user realize the order iy which the selection switeh and the selling swilches provided in the operation pane! are 10 be operated, thereby improving the operability of the operation pans. {Brief Description of Drawings]

[0013]

Fig. 1] Fig. 1is a schematic front visw of a refrigerator according to Embodiment 1.

Fig. 1 Fig. 2 dlustrates the configuration and display states of an operation pansl according to Embodiment 1. (Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the operation panel according to

Embodiment 1.

Fig. 4] Fig. 4 fllustrates the range of choices and the order in which the choices are switched for each setting allowed by the operation pansd according to Embodiment 1.

Fig. 5] Fig. 5 flustrates an operation of the operation panst (when all the displays

S0 ara off Example 1) according to Embodiment 1.

Fig. 8] Fig. 8 #lustrales an operation of the operation panel {when all the displays are off! Example 2) according to Embodiment 1.

Fig. 71 Fig. 7 Hustrates an operation of the operation panel {when all the displays are off. Example 3) according to Embodiment 1. a8 Fig. 8] Fig. 8 tlustrates an operation of the operation pans! {whan all the displays are off: Example 4} according to Embodiment 1,

Fig. 8] Fig. ¢ flusirates an operation of the operation panel {when displays are one

Example 1} according to Embodiment 1.

Fig. 101 Fig. 10 ustrates an operation of the operation pans! {when displays are an on: Example £) according to Embodiment 1

Fig. 11] Fig. 11 Hustrates an operation of the operation panel {when displays are on

Example 3} according to Embodiment 1

Fig. 12] Fig. 12 fHustrates an operation of an operation panel (when all the displays are off} according to Embodiment 2.

Fig. 13] Fig. 13 #lustrates an operation of the operation panel {when displays are on according to Embodiment 2.

Fig. 14] Fig. 14 Hustrates the configuration and display slate of an operation panel according to Embodiment 3. {Fig. 15] Fig. 15 Hustrates an operation of the operation panel (when a switching compartment is selectad) according to Embodiment 3.

Fig. 18] Fig. 10 dlustrales an operation of the operation panel (whan a freezer compartment is selected) according to Embodiment 3.

Fig. 17] Fig. 17 is a schematic front view of a refrigerator according to Embodiment 4, 18 Fig. 18] Fig. 18 Hlustrates an operation of an operation panst {when no door apeningfclosing is performed) according to Embodiment 4.

Fig. 18] Fig. 18 dllustrates an operation of the operation pana {whan the door openingfclosing of the switching compartment is performed) according to Embodiment 4, 28 [Dascription of Embodiments) 0014]

Embodiment 1. {Configuration of Refrigerator 1)

Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of a refrigerator 1 according to Embodiment 1.

RN As Hustrated In Fig. 1, the refrigerator 1 includes, a3 storage compartments, a refrigerator compartment 2 at the top thereof, an ice making compartment 3 and a switching compartment 4 that are disposed on the lel and right respectively as viewad from the front under the refrigerator compartment 2, a freezer compartment § disposed under them, and a vegetable compartment 8 disposad further below, The refrigerator compartment 2 includes a pair of right and left hinged doors. An operation pana 7 is disposed on the surface of the left door as viewsd from the front, it should be noted that the configuration of the storage compartments of the refrigerator 1 described above is only for illustration. The refrigerator 1 may have a different storage compartment from the compartments in the configuration described above, or may include only some of the above storage compartments. Further, the arrangement of these storage compartments is not Bmitad {o the above, it should be noted that cach storage compartment is also referred to as a “chamber” in the description below, [O08] {Configuration of Operation Fanal 7)

Fig. 2 iHusteates the configuration and display slates of the operation panel 7 according to Embodiment 1.

Fig. 2 (A) shows the slate where all the display slements displaved on a display unit 8 and a switch display unit 10 {both described below) of the operation panel ¥ are turned on.

As Hlustrated in Fig. 2 (A), the operation pans! ¥ includes al least a switch unit 8 with which to perform various selling operation and the like, the display unit 8 that displays sellings and the like, and the switch display unit 10 that displays the actions dons by operating the switches (the functions of the switches). 10018]

The switch unit 8 includes at least a chamber selection switch 8a, a temperature control switch 8b, a flash freezing switch 8g, and an ice making mode change switch 8d. 28 The chamber selection switch 8a is for switching between a plurality of chambers 0 select a chamber for which to perform operation setting, and switching between the chambers to select a chamber for which the seitings and the like are fo he displayed on the display unit 8. i should be noted that the operation settings refer fo seftings for the cooling operation of each chamber, such as temperature control ssttings, onfoff of a flash freezing function, and settings of an automatic oe making function, which will be described below. if should be noted that the chamber selection switch 8a corresponds fo a “selection switch” in the present invention, ooh

The temperature control switch 8b is for controlling the temperature of the chamber selected with uss of the chamber selection switch 8a.

The flash freezing switch Bo is for performing setting for the flash freezing function of the switching compariment 4.

The ice making mode change switch 8d is for performing selling for the automatic ice making function of the ice making compartment 3 it should be noted that the temperature control switch 8b, the flash freezing switch 8¢, and the lve making mode changs switch 8d correspond to "selling switches” In the present invention. 0018}

Tha display unit § includes at least a currentiy-selected-chamber display $a, a temperature setting level display 8b, a flash freezing display 8g, and an ice making selling display gd.

The currently-selectad-chamber display 8a displays information specifying the chamber selected from the plurality of chambers by use of the chamber selection switch 8a. For example, as flustrated in Fig. 2, the currentiy-selecled-chamber display Sa displays the names of the respective chambers in association with the arrangement positions of the respactive chambers (storage compartments), it should be noted that the currently-selacted-chamber display 8a corresponds

BF to a "sedected-chamber display unit" in the present invention, 0019]

The temperature selling level! display 8b displays the sel temperature level of gach chamber, such ag "LU", "HY, "SOFT FREEZING", and "FREEING".

The flash freezing display So displays the selling of the flash freezing function of the switching compartment 4, such as "FLASH"

The ice making setting display 8d displays the selling, of the ice making compartment 3 having an automatic ice making function, whether to make regular ice, fo make vary clear ice, to make ioe quickly, or to suspend the automatic ice making function. it should be noted that the temperature selling level display 8b, the flash freezing display Be, and the ice making setting display 8d correspond to a "salting display unit” in the present invention. 00201

The switch display unit 10 displays information indicating the actions done by operating the respective switches {the functions of the switches) of the switch unit 8

Ag illustrated in Fig. 2 (A), the switch display unit 10 is provided close to {immediately above) the switch unit 8, and includes a chamber selection switch display 10s, 8 temperature control switch display 10h, a flash freezing switch display 10¢, and an ice making mode change switch display 10d.

The chamber selection switch display 10a displays "CHAMBER SELECT iv indicate the action dons by operating the chamber selection switch 8a.

The temperature control switch display 10b displays "TEMPERATURE

CONTROL to indicate the action done by operating the temperate control switch 8k,

The flash freezing switch display 10c displays "FLASH FREEZING” to indicate the action done by operating the flash freezing switch 8c.

The ice making mode change switch display 10d displays "ICE MAKING

MODE CHANGE" to indicate the action done by operating the ice making mode change swilch 8d. 2B it should be noted that the display contents of the switch display unit 10, not being limited {o these, may be any Information indicating the actions done by operating the respective switches, such as symbols or figures. 0021]

Fig. 2 (B) shows the slale where all the display elements displayed on the display unit 8 and the switch display unit 10 of the operation panel 7 are tumed off.

should be noted that the display elements of the display unit 8 may be configured to be turned on for a predetermined time period only when any of the swilches is operated on the operation pana! 7 or only when the openingfclosing of any chamber door is detected. With this configuration, when the operation panel 7 is not in use, the § operation panel 7 appears as shown in Fig. 2 (B) 50 a9 lo be less conspiouous assimilating into the door of the refrigerator 1, and thus improved design can be obtained where the operation panel ¥ is less consplouous, it should be noted that the configurations of the switch unit 8, the display unit 8, and the switch display unit 10 shown in Fig. 2 are only Tor llusiration, and that switches having other functions or display elements for displaying other information may ba included.

F022]

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the operation panel 7 according to

Embodiment 1.

As Hlustrated in Fig. 3, a tactile switch 12 and an LED 13 are mounted on the surface of a substrate 11. An electric part box 14 is disposed so as {0 surround the tactile switch 12 and the LED 13.

A surface component 16 including a display surface 17 with character-shaped cuts is disposed on the surface of the electric part box 14 opposite from the substrals 11 so as to form the surface of the operation panel 7.

Further, a button 18 with an operation portion exiending through the surface component 18 is disposed above the tactile switch 12 {on the opposite side from the mount surface of the substrate 11). When a user presses the button 15 in the diraction of the tactile switch 12, operation for various sellings or the like is performed. 28 The tactile switch 12 and the bution 18 constitute each of the switches of the above- mentioned switch unit 8. 30231

The back surface of the surface component 18 is colored by printing or the Bke, and has a color and a thickness sufficient to block ight, The display surface 17 with character-shaped cuts is formed such that the areas of the characler-shaped culs are open or have a lighter color than the other areas.

YWhen the above-described LED 13 is turned on, the light from the LED 13 passes through only the character-shaped cut in the display surface 17 so that & characters, numbers, or shapes desired to be displayed becomes visible. When the

LED 13 is tuned off, the character-shaped cut in the display swface 17 becomes invisible so that only the surface component 18 remains visible, in the operation panel 7, an LED 13 is provided for each of sets of characters, numbers, or shapes to be displayed independently, and each of the LEDs 13 is turmned 160 on and off independently, 10024] it should be noted that the configuration of the operation panel 7 is not limited to that described above. For example, the display unit 8 and the swilch display unit may be formed of an LCD (Linuid Crystal Display}, and the switch unit 8 may be formed of touch switches disposed on the upper side of the LED. in the description below, "turning on the display” refers to turning on the LED 13 80 that the light from the LED 13 passes through the characler-shaped cut in the display surface 17, and "tuming off the display” refers to turing off the LEDS. In the cass where the display unit 8 and the switch display unit 10 are formed of an LCD or another display device, "displaying information on the display device” corresponds fo "turning on the display unit”, and "not displaying information on the display device” corresponds to Murning off the display unit”.

[0025] {Operating Procedure of Operation Panel 7) a8 Next, a description will be given of the operating procedure of the operation panel 7.

Fig. 4 Hlustrates the range of choloss and the order in which the choices are swilched for each ssiling aliowed by the operation panel according to Embodiment 1. it should be noted that the settings and the order in which to be changed shown in Fig. 4 are only for illustration, and the present invention is not limited to this.

0028]

When the chamber selection switch 8z is pressed by the user, the chambers are selected in the order shown in Fig. 4 (a8). The currently-selected-chamber display

Ba displays information specifying the selected chamber.

[0027]

Subsequently, when the temperature control switch 8b is pressed, the temperature settings of the selected chamber are changed in the order shown in Fig. 4 (by. The temperature salting level display 8b displays the temperature control level sat on the selected chamber, tH 10028]

The flash freezing switch 8c is valid only when the switching compartment 4 is selected. When the switching compartment 4 is selected by operating the chamber selection switch 8a, pressing the flash freezing switch 8c sels the flash freezing function of the swilching compartment 4 to be onfolf in the order shown in Fig. 4 {o). 18 The flash freezing display 8c is tured onfolf In accordance with the on/off of the flash freazing function.

On the other hand, whan a chamber other than the switching compartment 4 is selected by operating the chamber selection switch 8a, the operation of the flash freezing switch 8g is invalid.

Further, when the switch operation of the flash freezing switch 8c is valid, the fiash freezing switch display 10¢ is tuned on. When the switch operation is invalid, the flash freezing switch display 10 is turned off, thereby making the user realize that the operation of the flash freezing switch 8c is invalid, 0029] 3 The ice making compartment J is 2 chamber having an automatic ioe making function. The ice making methods include, for example, a method of making regular ice, a method of making very clear ice, and a method of quickly making ice.

The sailing of the ice making function of the ive making compartment 3 can be changed using the ice making mode change switch 8d regardless of which chamber is selected. When the ice making mode changs switch 8d is pressed, the selling of the ice making function is changed in the order shown in Fig. 4 {dd}. The ice making setting display 8d displays at which the ive making function is seb 0030]

As such, the switches of the operation panel 7 nesd lo be operated in g 8 predetermined order depending on the setting {o be performed.

That is, in the case of parforming operation of changing the temperature selling of a certain chamber, a user first selects the certain chamber viewing the currently- sslscted-chamber display 8a, and then selecls a desired temperature level by operating the temperature control switch 8b. Further, in the case of switching onfoft the flash freezing function of the swilching compartment 4, the user first selects the switching compariment 4 viewing the currentiy-selected-chamber display 92, and then sets the flash freezing function to be on/off by operating the flash freezing display 8c.

Meanwhile, among the switches on the operation panel 7, there is 8 switch which is always operable. 18 Specifically, in the case of changing the setting of the ice making function of the ice making compartment 3, the user selects a desired ice making function by operating the ice making mode change switch 8d regardless of the chamber selection,

[0031] 28 {Display Operation of Operation Panel 73

Next, as to the operation panel 7 having the configuration described above, a description will be given of a display operation performed to make the user realize in what order the switches in the operation pana! 7 are {0 be operated.

[0032] a8 hen All Displays are Off]

First, a description will be given of the operation of starting to tum on the displays if the switch unit 8 is operated when all the displays are off {not displayed).

Here, all the displays being off refers to the state where, for example, because no operation was performed for a predetermined time period {about 30 seconds) after the switch unit 8 was last operated, all the displays are turned off {0 save power or make the design thereof beter, 10033]

Fig. § Hlustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 (when all the displays are & off: Example 1} according to Embodiment 1.

When all the displays are off as shown in Fig. 8 (A), f any of the switches of the switch unit 8 is operated, only the currentiv-selecied-chamber display 8a of the display unit § and the chamber selection switch display 10a of the swilch display unit are first displayed (fumed on} as indicated by a dotted line b in Fig. § (B). 1G After a predetermined time period (about 0.5 second} has passed from when the currentiv-selacted-chamber display 8a and the chamber selaction switch display 10a stared to be displayed, the other displays of the display unit § {the temperature setting level display Bb, the flash freezing display 8c, and the ice making selling display 8d} and the other displays of the switch display unit 10 (the temperature control switch display 10b, the flagh freezing switch display 10g, and ice making mode change switch display 10d) are displayed {fumed on) as indicated by a dolled ins c in

Fig. 5 (QC).

[0034]

As such, the currently-selected-chamber display 8a and the chamber selection switch display 10a are first displayed, thereby visually making the user know that aperation of selecting a chamber is to be performed first,

F038]

A description will be given of another example display operation that is performed when all the displays are off. a8 Fig. § #Hlustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 {when all the displays are off. Example 2) according to Embodiment 1.

Whan all the displays are off as shown in Fig. § (A), If any of the switches of the switch unit 8 is operated, only the currently-selected-chamber display Ba of the display unit 8 is first displayed {fumed on) as indicated by a dolled line b in Fig. 8 (B). a0 Then, after a predetermined time period {about 0.5 second} has passed from when the currently-selscted-chamber display 8a staried to be displayed, only the chamber selection swilch display 10a of the switch display unit 10 is displayed (umed on) as indicated by a dotted line ¢ in Fig, 8 {CM

Then, after a predetermined tims period {about 0.5 second) has passed from

B when the chamber selection switch display 10a staried 10 be displayed, the other displays of the display unit 8 dhe temperature setting level! display 8b, the flash freszing display 8c, and the ice making setting display 8d) are displayed (fumed on) as indicated by a dolled line d in Fig. 8 (D).

After a predetermined time period {about 0.5 second) has passed from whan the other displays of the display unit 8 started to be displayed, the other displays of the switch display unit 10 (the temperature control switch display 10b, the flash freezing switch display 10¢, and ice making mode changs switch display 10d} are displayed (lumed on} as indicated by a dolled fine e In Fig. 8 (EL 0038]

As such, the switch display unit 10 may be displayed {lurned on} with a delay of a predetermined time period (about 0.5 second) with respect to the display unit §, whereby the display unit 8 indicating the states and the switch display unit 10 indicating the actions done by operating the switches {their functions) can be clearly distinguished from each other, aa

A description will be given of another example display operation that is performed when all the displays are off,

Fig. 7 Hlusitrates an operation of the operation panel 7 {when all the displays are off. Example 3) according to Embodiment 1 28 When all the displays arg off as shown in Fig. 7 (A), { any of the switches of the switch unit 8 is operated, only the currentiv-selected-chamber display 8a of the display unit 8 and the chamber selection switch display 10a of the switch display unit 10 are first displayed (fumed on) as indicated by a dotted line bin Fig. 7 (8).

Then, after a predetermined time period {about 0.5 second) has passed from when the currently-selected-chamber display 8a and the chamber selection switch display 10a started to be displayed, the temperature selling level display 8b of the display unit © and the temperature control switch display 10h of the switch display unit 10 are displayed (lurned on) as indicated by a dotted ins ¢ in Fig. 7 {GC}

Then, after a predetermined time period (about 0.5 second) has passed from when the lemperature setiing level display 8b and the temperatures control switch display 10b started {o be displayed, the other displays of the display unit 8 (the flash freazing display So and the ice making ssiting display 8d) and the other displays of the switch display unit 10 {the flash Treszing switch display 10¢ and the ice making mode changes switch display 10d) are displayed (urned on) as indicated by a dotted fine d in Fig. 7 (OD) {0038

As such, the currentiy-selected-chamber display 8a and the chamber selection switch display 10a may be first fumed on; the temperature setting level display 8b and the temperature control switch display 10b may be displayed after a predetermined 18 time period (about 0.5 second) has passed; and the flash freezing display 8¢, the

Hash freezing switch display 10g, the ioe making setling display 8d, and the ke making mods change switch display 10d may be turned on after another pradetermined time period {about 0.5 second} has passed, 10038) 28 A desgeription will be given of another example display operation that is performed when all the displays ars off.

Fig. 8 Hlustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 {when all the displays are off: Example 4) according to Embodiment 1.

When all the displays are off as shown in Fig. 8 (4), if any of the swilches of the 38 switch unit 8 is operated, only the currently-selesied-chamber display 8a and the ios making setting display 8d of the display unit §, and the chamber selection switch display 10a and the ive making mode changs switch display 10d of the switch display unit 10 are displayed (tuned on) as indicated by a dotted line b1 and a dotted line b2 in Fig. 8 (B}.

Then, after a predetermined time period (about 0.5 second) has passed, the temperature setting level display 8b of the display unit 8 and the temperature control switch display 10b of the switch display unit 10 are displayed (umed on) as indicated by a dolled line oc in Fig. 8 (CL 8 After a predetermined time period (about {.5 second) has passed from when the temperature setting level display 8b and the temperature control switch display 10h started to be displayed, the flash freezing display 8c of the display unit 9 and the flash freezing switch display 10c¢ of the switch display unit 10 are displayed (ured on} as indicated by a dotted line d in Fig. 8 (D). £0 [0040]

As mentioned above, the ive making setting can be changed regardless of the result of the chamber selection. Hence, as shown in Fig. 8, the ice making setling display 8d and the ice making mode change switch display 10d may be fumed on at the same time when the currentiv-selscted-chamber display 8a and the chamber | selection switch display 10a are fumed on. This can visually make the user know that the ice making mode change switch 8d is operable. 10041] int the above description, the predetermined time period for transition of display {turning on} is set at about 0.5 second, but this time period may be of an arbitrary length. If the time period is too short, the user may not be able to realize that information was sequentially displayed due to optical illusions or may miss {. On the other hand, i the time period is too long, the user may feel uncomfortable, and may rristakenly consider that a failure has occurred. Hanes, a time period of about 0.1 to 1 second is considered {o be appropriate. 28 [0042 [When Displays are On}

Mex, a description will be given of the operation that is performed if the chamber selection switch 8a is operated when displays are an.

Fig. © lHlustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 (when displays are on

Example 1) according to Embodiment 1

When the switching compartment 4 is displayed as being selected on the currentiy-selected-chamber display 9a as shown in Fig. 8 {4), if the chamber selection swilch 8a is operated, the currently-selected-chamber display 9a shifts its display to

FAR indicating the freezer compartment 5, next {o the switching compartment 4, as indicated by the dotted line bi in Fig. 8 (8). At this time, the displays except the currentiy-selected-chamber display 8a and the chamber selection switch display 10a are temporarily tumed off as indicated by a dotied line b2 in Fig. 8 (B).

Than, when a predetermined time period {about 0.5 second) has passed from when the displays were tumed off, the displays having been turned off (the temperature setting level display 8b, the temperature control switch display 10b, the ice making setting display 8d, and the ice making mode change switch display 10d} are fumed on again as indicated by dotted lines of and ¢2 In Fig. 8 (CC).

[0044]

As such, after the chamber selection switch 8a was operated, the displays are turned off, and then the displays corresponding to the switches that are lo be operated next are displayed, thereby visually making the user know operations to be performed following the chamber selection. 0048]

At this point in time, the chamber selecied is the freezer compariment 5. Since the flash freezing switch 8c is valid only when the swilching compariment 4 is selected as mentioned above, the flash freezing display Be and the flash freezing switch display 100 remain off, thereby making the user know that the operation of the 2B flash freezing switch display 10c is invalid when the freezer compartment 5 is selectad.

[3046]

A description will be given of another example display operation that is performed when displays are on.

Fig. 10 Hustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 (when displays are on

Example 2) according to Embodiment 1.

When the switching compartment 4 is displayed as being selected on the currenthy-selected-chamber display 8a as shown in Fig. 10 (A), if the chamber selection switch 8a is operated, the currently-selected-chamber display Da shifts iis display to "FER" indicating the freezer compartment 8, next {o the switching sompariment 4, as indicated by the dolled line bl in Fig. 10 (B). Atihis point, the displays except the currently-selected-chamber display 8a and the chamber selection switch display 10a are temporarily turned off as indicated by a dotted line b2 In Fig. 10 16 {8},

When a predetermined time period {about 0.8 second} has passed from when the displays were turned off, only the lemperature seating level display 8b and the temperature control switch display 100 owl of the displays that have been off are turned on again as indicated by a dolled line © in Fig. 10 {TC}.

Then, when a predetermined time period {about 0.5 second) has passed, the ive making setting display 8d and the ice making mods change switch display 10d out of the displays that have been off are timed on again as indicated by a doled line d in Fig. 10 (DY). 047]

As such, when tuming on again the displays that have been off, the temperature seiting level display 8b and the temperature control switch display 10b, which correspond to the next operation of the chamber selection switch 8a, are first turned on. Then, after a predetermined time period {about 0.5 second) has passed, the other displays {the ice making setting display 8d and the ice making mode change 28 switch display 10d) may be tumed on. 0048]

A description will be given of another example display operation that is performed when displays are on.

Fig. 11 #Hustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 {when displays are on:

Example 3) according to Embodiment 1. “iO

When the switching compartment 4 is displayed as being selected on the currently-selected-chamber display Sa as shown in Fig. 11 (A), i the chamber selection swilch 8a is operated, the currenth-selected-chamber display Ba shifts iis display fo "FIR" indicating the freezer compartment 8, next fo the swilching 8 compartment 4, as indicated by the dolled line b1 in Fig. 11 (B). Atthis point, the displays (indicated by a dolled line 12) except the currently-sslected-chamber display ga, the chamber selection switch display 10a, the ice making selling display 8d, and the ice making mode change switch display 10d, which are indicated by dotiad lines bY and b3 in Fig, 11 {B), are temporarily fumed off,

Then, when a predetermined tims period {about 0.5 second) has passed from when the displays were tuned off, the temperatures selling level display 8b and the temperature control switch display 10k out of the displays that have been off are turned on again as indicated by a dotted line o in Fig. 11 {C). it should be noted that, in this example, since the freezer compartment Bis selected, the flash freezing display 8¢ and the flash freezing switch display 0c remain off as mentioned above. 10049]

Since the ice making setting can be operated regardiess of which chamber is displayed, when the chamber selection switch 8a is operated, the lve making setting display 8d and the oe making mode change swilch display 10d may remain on as shown in Fig, 1 without being fumed off. This can visually make the user know that the ice making mode change swilch 8d is operable. [GOS {Advantageous Effects) a8 inv the present embodiment, as described above, information to be displaved is sequentially displayed on the display unit 8 in accordance with the order in which the switches of the switch unit 8 are operated.

This means can make the user realize what operation can be performed with each switch of the swilch unit 8 on the operation pans! 7, thereby improving the operability of the operation panel

0051]

Further, in the present embodiment, the switch display unit 10 that displays information indicating actions of the respective switches of the switch unit 8 is provided, and information to be displayed is sequentially displayed on the switch display unit 10 in accordance with the order in which the switches of the switch unit 8 ars operated.

This means can make the user realize what operation can be performed with gach switch of the switch unit 8 on the operation panel 7, thereby improving the operability of the operation panel,

[0082]

Further, in the present embodiment, from among information pieces indicating actions of the respective switches {0 be displayed on the switch display unit 14, information pieces indicating the actions of switches for which operation is invalid are not displayed.

This means can makes the user realize that the switch cannot be operated, fils aperation is invalid, thereby improving the operability of the operation pans

FO083] in the present embodiment, there has been described the case where the switch display unit 10 that displays information about the actions of the switches respectively in association with the switches of the switch unit 8 is provided, but the prasent invention being not limited to this, the switch display unit 10 may be omitted.

For example, the actions dons by oparating them may be printed near the switch unit 8.

Even with this configuration, sequentially displaying information {o be displayed 28 on the display unit 8 can make the user realize what operation can be performed with each switch of the switch unit 8 on the operation panel 7, thereby improving the operability of the operation panal. 054

Embodiment £,

in Embodiment 2, a mode is described in which information places that can be selected or set by use of the switch unit 8 are displayed for a predetermined time period upon transition of displays.

The configurations of a refrigerator 1 and an operation panel 7 of Embodiment 2 are the same as those of Embodiment 1, and the same parts are denoted by the same reference symbols,

[0085]

When All Displays are Off

First, a description will be given of an operation of staring fo tum on the 14 displays if the switch unit 8 is operated when all the displays are off {not displayed).

[3058]

Fig. 12 Mustrates an operation of an operation panal 7 {when all the displays are off} according to Embodiment 2,

When all the displays are off as shown in Fig. 12 (A), If any switch of the switch unit 8 is operated, only the currently-selected-chambar display Ba of the display unit 9 and the chamber selection switch display 10a are first wmed on as indicated by a dotted ine bin Fig. 12 (8B). Al this time, on the currently-selected-chamber display 8a, not only the display of the chamber currently selected but also the displays of gli the chambers "REF", "SW", "FER, and "VEG") that can be selecled by use of the 243 chamber selection switch 8a are tumed on.

Then, when a predetermined time period {about 0.5 second) has passed, the display "SW" indicating the chamber selecied by use of the chamber selection switch

Ba remains turned on, with the other displays of the currentiy-salected-chamber display 8a being tumsd off as indicated by a dotted line ol In Fig. 12 {GC}.

SH Af the same time, the other displays of the display unit 8 {the temperature setting level display 8b, the flash freezing display Bo, and the ice making salting display 8d) and the other displays of the switch display unit 10 {the temperature control switch display 10b, the flash freezing switch display He, and the ice making mode change switch digplay 10d) are turned on as indicated by a dotted line ¢2. Also whan turning on the other displays of the display unit 8 and of the switch display unit

18, not only the displays selecisd at that point but also all the displays that can be selected are turned on,

Then, alter a predetermined time period (about 0.5 second) has passed, the displays of the display unit 8 and the switch display unit 10 except those corresponding to the settings are tumed off as indicated by dofled lines df and d2 in

Fig. 12 (Th

Q0ST]

Although the temperature selling level display 8b, the flash fressing display 8g, and the ice making setting display 8d are tumed on simultaneously in the examples 18 shown in Figs. 12 {C) and (DD), the present invention being not limited fo this, the displays may be sequentially turned on in accordance with the operation procedure as in Embodiment 1, 3058] {When Displays are On}

Next, a desoription will be given of the operation that is performed if the chamber selection switch 8a is operated whan displays are on,

F058

Fig. 13 flustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 (when displays are on} according to Embodiment 2,

Yher the switching compartment 4 is displayed as being selectad on the currently-selected-chamber display 8a as shown in Fig. 13 (4), i the chamber selection switch 8a is operated, the currently-selscted-chamber display Ba shifls is display to "FZR" indicating the freszer compartment 5, next to the switching compartment 4, as indicated by the dolled ine bin Fig. 13 (8B). Al this point, the 28 displays except the currently-selected-chamber display 8a and the chamber selection switch display 10g are temporarily turned off as indicated by a dotted ine 2 In Fig. 13 {B}.

Than, when a predetermined time period (about 0.5 second} has passed from when the displays were tumed off, the displays having been tumed off (the temperature selling level display 8b, the temperature control switch display 10b, the ce making setting display 8d, and the ice making mods change switch display 10d) are turned on again as indicated by a dotted lines ¢ in Fig. 13 {C). At this point, not only the displays selected but also all the displays that can be set are tumed on,

Then, afier a predetermined time period {shout 0.5 second) has passed, the & displays of the display unit § and the switch display unit 10 except those corresponding to the setlings are turned off as indicated by a dotted line d in Fig. 13 {0}. 0080]

Although the temperature setting level display 8b, the flash freezing display 8c, and the ioe making sefting display 8d are turned on simultaneously in the examples shown in Figs. 13 {C) and (D3), the present invention being not limited to this, the displays may be sequentially turned on in accordance with the operation procedure as in Embodiment 1,

[0081] {Advantageous Effects) in the present embodiment, as described above, whan displaying information on the display unit 8 in accordance with the order in which the switches of the switch unit 8 are operated, all information that can be selected or set via the switches of the switch unit 8 are displayed for a predetermined time period, and then the information that have been selected or set by use of the switch unit 8 is displayed,

This means can makes the user realize what operation can be performed with gach switch of the switch unit B on the operation panel 7, thereby improving the operability of the operation pans! 7. 10082] 28 Embodiment 3. in Embodiment 3, a mode is described in which a plurality of operation settings are performed by operating a single switch,

[0083]

Fig. 14 Hlustrates the configuration and display state of an operation panel according to Embodiment 3.

Dh

Fig. 14 shows the state where all the display elements {0 be displayed on the display unit 8 and the switch display unit 10 of the operation panel ¥ are tumed on.

As Bustrated in Fig. 14, the operation panal 7 of Embodiment 3 includes a rapid cooling display Bs adjacent to the Hash freezing display Bc of the display unit 8, In 8 addition to the componsnis of the above-described Embodiment 1 (Fig. 2).

The operation pans! 7 further includes a rapid cooling switch display 10s adiacent to the Hash freezing switch display 10¢ of the switch display unit 10.

The rapid cooling display Se displays the setting of the cooling function of the freszer compartment & 14 The rapid cooling switch display 10e displays "RAFID to Indicate the action done by operating the flash freezing switch 8.

[3084]

The flash freazing switch 8c of Embodiment 3 senves as a switch to switch on and off the flash freezing function of the switching compartment 4 when the switching 18 compartment 4 is selected, and serves as a swilch lo switch on and off the rapid cooling function when a chamber other than the switching compartment 4 is selected.

As such, the flash freezing switch 8c is operated to perform one of a plurality of operation settings in accordance with the chamber selected by use of the chamber selection switch 8a.

O85] i should be noted that rapid cooling display Be corresponds to a "selling display unit” in the present invention,

In Embodiment 3, the configuration of a refrigerator 1 and the other part of the configuration of the operation pans 7 are the same as those of Embodiment 1, and ab the same paris ars denoted by the sams reference symbols. 10086]

Next, a description will be given of operations of the operation pane! 7 having the configuration described above.

Fig. 15 #ustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 {when the switching compartment is selected) according to Embodiment 3.

As lustrated in Fig. 15 {A}, when the swilching compartment 4 is selecled by use of the chamber selection switch 8a, the operation of the flash freezing function of the switching compartment 4 is valid. Hence, the flash freezing switch display 10c is turned on with the rapid cooling switch display 10s being turned off. in this case, & gach ims the flash freezing switch 8c is operated, the flash freezing display 8c is switched between on and off as indicated by a dotted line a in Fig. 15 (A) and a dolled fine bin Fig. 18 (8).

F087]

Fig. 16 Hlustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 {when the freezer compartment is selecled) according to Embodiment 3.

As iHustrated in Fig. 18 {4), when a chamber {8.q., the freezer compartment 5) other than the switching compartment 4 is selecled by use of the chamber selection switch 8a, the flash freezing function becomes invalid and the rapid cooling function becomes valid. Hence, the flash freezing switch display 10¢ is turned off whils the rapid cooling switch display 10s is turned on. In this case, sach time the flash freezing switch 8c is operated, the rapid cooling display Ye is switched between on and off as indicated by a dotted ling 2 In Fig. 16 (A) and a dotted line bin Fig. 18 (B). [00a]

Although two functions, Le, the flash freezing display 8¢ and the rapid cooling display Se are switched according fo the resull of the currently-selected-chamber display 8a in the examples shown in Figs. 15 and 18, the present invention being not

Himited to this, three or more functions may be switched, Further, other functions than the flash freazing function and the rapid cooling function may be assigned thereto. 0068; {Advantageous Effects)

As described above, In the present embodiment, at least one of the plurality of setting switches is operated to perform one of a plurality of operation seftings in accordance with the chamber selected by use of the chamber selection switch Ba.

And the switch display unit 10 displays information indicating the action of the ssiting switch operated to perform a plurality of operation settings, in accordance with the chamber selected by use of the chamber selection switch 8a.

Hence, ong switch of the switehy unit 8 can be made to have a plurality of actions {functions}, and thus there is no nead to add a new switch for each function.

Also, the system can makes the user know the function that can be executed using the switch capable of a plurality of operation seltings, In accordance with the selected chamber or the like,

Hence, itis possible to make the user realize what operation can be performed with each switch on the operation panel 7, thereby improving the operability of the operation panel 7,

Ovo}

Embodiment 4, in Embodiment 4, a mode is described in which a chamber for which operation selling is to be performed is selected by openingfolosing the door of the chamber 18 {storages compartment) instead of the operation of the chamber selection swilch 8a. 0071

Fig. 17 is a schematic front view of a refrigerator according to Embodiment 4.

Ag llustrated in Fig. 17, the refrigerator 1 of Embodiment 4 includes, for each chamber, door openingfolosing detecting means 18 for detecting the opening/closing 28 of the door thereof,

Refrigerator compartment door openingfclosing detecting means 18a detects the opening/closing of the door of the refrigerator compartment 2. ive making compariment door openingfolosing detecting means 18b detects the openingfolosing of the door of the ice making compartment 3. a8 Switching compartment door opening/closing detecting means 18¢ detects the opaning/closing of the door of the switching compartment 4.

Freezer compartment door openingfolosing detecting means 18d detects the openingfeiosing of the door of the freezer compartment 8.

Vegetable compartment door opening/closing detecting means 18g detects the 3G opaning/closing of the door of the vegetable compartment 8.

[0072] in Embodiment 4, the other part of the configuration of the refrigerator 1 and the configuration of the operation panel 7 are the same as those of any of

Lmbodiments 1 through 3, and the same parts are denoted by the same reference & symbols,

[073]

Next, a description will be given of operations of the operation panel 7 of the refrigerator 1 having the configuration described above.

[0074]

When No Door Opening/Closing is Performed)

First, a description will be given of a display operation in the case where no door opening/closing is performed.

Fig. 18 illustrates an operation of the operation panet 7 {when no door opening/olosing is performed) according to Embodiment 4.

After the switch unit 8 on the operation panel 7 was operated (Fig. 18 (A), if the switch unit 8 is not operated during a predetermined time period {about 30 seconds), all the displays of the display unit 8 and the switch display unit 10 are turned off in order to save power or make the design thereof better (Fig, 18 (BY).

At this time, information specifving the chamber {e.g., the refrigerator compartment 2) selacted on the currently-selected-chamber display 8a is stored in a not-shown storage device {a8 memory or the ke}, and then when any of the switches of the switch unit 8 is operated, the display of the chamber {the refrigerator compartment 2) which was last selecled is fumed on first on the currentiy-selected- chamber display 8a (Fig. 18 {TC

JF [0075]

When Door Opening/Closing is Performed]

Next, a description will be given of an operation performed if a door openingfoiosing is performed when all the displays of the operation panel 7 are off,

Fig. 10 Hlustrates an operation of the operation panel 7 (when the door opening/closing of the switching compartment 4 is performed) according to

Embodiment 4.

After the switch unit 8 on the operation panel 7 is operated (Fig. 18 (A), H the switch unit 8 is nol operated during a predetermined time period {about 30 seconds), all the displays of the display unit § and the swilch display unit 10 are turned off in order to save power or make the design thereof better (Fig. 18 {8}. Al this point, information specifying the chamber {8.q., the refrigerator compartment 2) selected on the currenthy-selected-chamber display Ba is stored in a not-shown storage device {a memory of the like.

Then, for example, when the door of the switching compartment 4 is opened or closed, the switching compartment door opening/elosing detecting means 18¢ detects the openingfclosing of the door of the switching compartment 4. When the epeningfclosing of the door of the switching compartment 4 is delecied by the switching compartment door opening/closing detecting means 18g, the operation panal ¥ changes the stored chamber information from the refrigerator compartment 2 {0 the switching compartment 4 (Fig. 18 (Ch.

After that, when any of the swilches of the switch unil 8 is operated, the display of the chamber (the switching compartment 4) specified by the stored information has 28 bean stored is Wurned on first on the currently-selecied-chamber display 8a (Fig. 15 {D3}. if should be noted that the display operation is the same as that of any of

Embodiments 1 through 3.

As such, according fo Embodiment 4, when door opening/closing is performed, the operation pans! 7 selects the chamber of which the door opening/closing has

EAS been detected by the door opening/closing detecting means 18 as a chamber for which operation selling is to be performed, instead of the operation of the chamber selection switch 8a.

[0076]

Although the example of Fig. 19 lllustrates an operation that is started by the door opening/closing of the switching compartment 4, the present invention being not - DG imited {o this, also when the opening/closing of another door is detected, likewise the stored chamber information is changed o specify the chamber whose door has bean opened or closed. 10077]

Not only when all the displays are off but also when a display is on, F the opening/closing of a door is detected, the selected chamber information may be changed to specily the chamber whose door has been opened or closed, but in this case, because sven without! operating the switch unit 8, the displays change each time a door is opened or closed, so that the user may become confused, the above operation is preferably performed only when all the displays are off.

FOOTE]

Although in Embodiment 4 there has been described the case where the door openingfolosing detecting means 18 is provided for all the chambers, the present invention being not limited to this, the openingfclosing of at least one of the doors of the chambers nesd only be detected. in this case, the above operation may be performed for only the chamber whose door opening/closing can be detected. {0079

Further, the above operation does not need to be performed for all the chambers for which the door openingfolosing detecting means 18 is provided, The stored chamber information may be changed only when the door openingfolosing of a pradetermined chamber {a.9., the switching compariment 4} is performed.

[0080] {Advantageous Effects)

As described above, in the present embodiment, the door opening/closing a8 detecting means 18 for detecting the opening/closing of the door of each chamber is provided, and the operation pans! 7 selects the chamber whose door opsning/ciosing has been delectad by the door opening/olosing detecting means 18 as the chamber for which operation sailing is to be parformed, instead of the operation of the chamber selection switch 8a.

Hence, when a user operates the operation panel 7 after opening the door and putting in or taking out food, the user does not nesd {o select the chamber using the switch unit 8, and thus the user can omit one step from the operating procedure.

Thus, the operabilily of the operation panel can be improved, {Reference Signs List]

[0081] 1 refrigerator; 2 refrigeralor compartment; 3 ice making compartment; 4 switching compartment; 5 freszer compartment; € vegetable compartment; 7 operation panel; 8 switch uni; 8a chamber selection switch; 8h temperature conirol switch; Be flash freezing switch; 8d ice making mode change swilch; 8 display unit; 8a currently-selectad-chamber display; Sb temperature setting level display; 8c flash freezing display; 9d ice making setting display; Se rapid cooling display; 10 swilch display unif; 10a chamber selection swilch display; 10h temperature control switch display; 10c flash freazing switch display; 10d ice making mode changes switch display; 10e rapid cooling swilch display; 11 substrate; 12 tactile switch; 13 LED; 14 electric part box; 15 button; 18 surface component; 17 display surface; 18 door opening/closing detecting means, 18a refrigerator compartment door opening/elosing detscting means; 18k ice making compartment door opening/closing detecting means; 18¢ swilching compartment door openingfolosing detecting means; 18d freezer compartment door opening/closing detecting means; and 18e vegetable compartment door openingfclosing detecting means.

Claims (2)

1. {Name of Document] CLAIMS Claim 1} A refrigerator comprising: a plurality of storage compartments; and an operation pang! configurad to allow performing operation selling on each of the storage compartments, wherein the operation pans! includes; a selection switch configured {o allow selecting one of the plurality of storage compartments for which operation setting is to be performed; ong of more setting switches to be operated to perform the operation selling on the storage compartments; a ssiscled-chamber display unit to display information indicating the storage compartment selected by use of the selaction switch; and a selling display unit to display information about the operation settings of the storages compartments, and whergin information to be displayed is sequentially displayed on the selected chamber display unit and the setting display uni in accordance with an order in which the selection switch and the setting switches are operated.
2. Claim 2] Tha refrigerator of Claim 1, wherein the operation pane! further includes a switch display unit configured fo display information indicating an action done by operating sach of the selection swilch and the selling switches, and information fo be displayed is sequentially displayed on the switch display unit 28 in accordance with an order in which the sslection switch and the selling switches are operated. [Claim 3} The refrigerator of Claim 1 or 2, wherein the operation pans! is configured fo, when displaying information on the selected-chamber display unit in accordance with an order in which the selsclion a switch and the setting switches are operated, display information specifying the storage compartment selected by use of the selection switch after displaying all information specifying the storage compartments that can be selected by use of the selection switch for a predetermined time period. {Claim 4]

   The refrigerator of any ons of Claims 1 through 3,

   whaersin the operation pansi is configured to, when displaying information on the selling display unit in accordance with an order in which the selection switch and the selling switches are operated, display information indicating the operation selling set by use of the selling switch after displaying all information indicating the operation sattings that can be performed by use of the setting switch for a pradetermined time pariod,

   ICiaim 8] Tha refrigerator of Claim 2,

   wherein the operation panel does not display, among all information indicating actions done by operating the switches fo he displayed on the switch display unl, information indicating the action done by operating a switch of which the operation is invalid,

   {Claim 8] The refrigerator of Claim 2 or §, wharsin at least one of the plurality of selling switches is configured fo allow performing one of a plurality of operation settings in accordance with the storage compartment selected by use of the selection switch; and wherein the switch display unit is configured to display information indicating the action done by operating the safting switch that allows performing the plurality of aparation settings, In accordance with the storage compartment selected by use of the selection switch.

   {Claim 7] The refrigerator of any one of Claims 1 through 8, further comprising:

   a door openingfolosing detecting means for detecting the openingfolosing of at least one of doors of the storage compartments, wherein the operation pane! selects the storage compartment whose door opening/closing has been detected by the door opening/closing detecting means as & the storage compartment for which operation setting is to be performed, instead of the operation of the selection switch.