WO2023075332A1

WO2023075332A1 - Refrigerator and home appliance

Info

Publication number: WO2023075332A1
Application number: PCT/KR2022/016275
Authority: WO
Inventors: 홍윤정; 강희경; 마용범
Original assignee: 엘지전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2021-10-29
Filing date: 2022-10-24
Publication date: 2023-05-04
Also published as: KR102663517B1; KR20230061924A

Abstract

The home appliance of the present embodiment comprises a cabinet having a space therein, a door which opens and closes the space and is provided with a light source, and a control unit for controlling the light source, wherein the control unit may: operate the home appliance in a first mode or a second mode; and control the light source to switch from a first state to a second state if a specific event occurs in the first mode, and to stay in the first state or to switch from the first state to a third state if the specific event occurs in the second mode.

Description

Refrigerators and Appliances

The present invention relates to refrigerators and home appliances.

In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows low-temperature storage of food in an internal storage space shielded by a refrigerator door. The refrigerator can store stored food in an optimal state by cooling the inside of the storage space using cold air generated through heat exchange with a refrigerant circulating in the refrigerating cycle.

Such refrigerators tend to become larger and more multifunctional in accordance with changes in eating habits and the trend of high-end products, and refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenient devices considering user convenience are being released.

Technologies for diversifying the appearance of the front surface of the refrigerator door are being developed in order to harmonize with the environment in which the refrigerator is placed or the surrounding furniture or home appliances, and this trend is being made in general home appliances.

U.S. Patent No. 8789900 (hereinafter referred to as "Prior Document 1") discloses a structure in which a decor panel for forming an exterior is mounted on the front surface of a refrigerator door, and the decor panel is detachably configured to provide a door suitable for the user's taste. It can form the appearance of the front.

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

In order to solve this problem, Chinese Patent No. 103250018 (hereinafter referred to as "Prior Document 2") discloses that a reflective layer and a transparent panel are provided on the front surface of a refrigerator door, and lighting devices are mounted on both ends of the reflective layer to set the color of the transparent panel. Disclosed is a refrigerator capable of glowing.

In the case of Prior Document 2, the light source of the lighting device may be adjusted to a desired color by the controller. For example, blue or red may be used, or other colors may be adjusted according to the temperature of the cooler and/or the freezer and/or the load ratio of the cooler or freezer.

However, in the case of Prior Document 2, a technique for setting an operation mode of a light source by a user is not disclosed.

In addition, in the case of Prior Document 2, the feature of changing the operating state of the light source when a specific event occurs is not disclosed, and it does not disclose whether or not to change the state of the light source according to the mode selected by the user or setting a different state change pattern. .

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

Optionally or additionally, a home appliance and a refrigerator capable of limiting a change in a state of a light source despite occurrence of a specific event are provided.

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

Optionally or additionally, this embodiment provides a home appliance and a refrigerator that can be easily changed between modes.

Optionally or additionally, the present embodiment provides a home appliance and a refrigerator capable of setting whether to change the state of a light source or a pattern of changing the state of a light source for each event.

A home appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet having a space; and a door opening and closing the space and having a light source.

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

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

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

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

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

A manipulation unit for changing a mode between the first mode and the second mode may be further included, and all of the plurality of functions may be limited when the first mode is changed to the second mode by the manipulation unit.

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

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

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

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

The sensor may include an illuminance sensor. The mode may be changed when it is detected that the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is equal to or less than the limit illuminance for a predetermined period of time.

The sensing unit may include a user detection sensor for sensing the user's proximity. The mode may be changed when it is sensed for a certain period of time that a user has approached within a limited distance by the user detection sensor.

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

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

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

Alternatively, the second state is a state in which the light source is turned on and irradiates light of a first color with a first intensity, and the third state is a state in which the light source is turned on and emits light of a first color with a first intensity lower than the first intensity. It may be in a state of investigation in the second century.

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

At least one of the first color, the second color, the first intensity, the second intensity, and the number of LEDs turned on may be changed.

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

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

The home appliance may further include a sensing unit for sensing a user's proximity. When it is detected that the user approaches within the reference distance by the detector, it may be determined that the specific event has occurred.

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

Alternatively, when door closing is not sensed by the sensor until a reference time for opening the door has elapsed after opening the door, it may be determined that the specific event has occurred.

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

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

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

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

When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the controller operates the output unit, and when the specific event occurs in the second mode, the controller disables the output unit or makes the output unit operate in the first mode. It is possible to activate the output section to produce a quieter sound.

A home appliance according to another aspect includes a cabinet having a space; a door opening and closing the space and having a light source; an output unit that outputs sound information; and a control unit controlling the light source and the output unit in order to perform functions of the home appliance.

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

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

When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit may operate the output unit.

When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit may cause the output unit not to operate or activate the output unit to generate a sound lower than that of the output unit in the first mode.

According to an embodiment, when a specific event occurs, the state of the light source provided in the door can be changed, so that the user can easily recognize the refrigerator, approach the refrigerator, or improve aesthetics.

According to an embodiment, since it is possible to select a mode in which the state of the light source is restricted from being changed despite occurrence of a specific event, it is possible to prevent the operation of the light source or the output unit from interfering with the user.

According to an embodiment, the user can select any one mode among a plurality of modes related to changing the state of the light source, so that user convenience can be improved and various user preferences can be satisfied.

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

According to an embodiment, it is possible to set whether the state of the light source changes or the pattern of changing the state of the light source for each event, so that user convenience can be improved and various user preferences can be satisfied.

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

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

3 is a view showing a state in which a panel assembly is separated from the refrigerator door;

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along 4-4 of Figure 3;

5 is a view showing the arrangement of a light guide plate and a light source;

6 is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating a light emitting state of the panel assembly;

7 is a block diagram showing the flow of control signals of the refrigerator;

8 is a view showing a state in which some doors among a plurality of doors emit light;

9 is a view showing a state in which all doors in the refrigerator emit light;

10 is a diagram explaining a method of changing an operating mode of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

11 is a diagram for explaining a state change of a light source for each mode when a specific event occurs;

12 is a diagram showing a first function performed by a refrigerator for each mode;

Fig. 13 is a view showing the state of the light source with the door closed;

14 is a diagram showing a second function performed by a refrigerator for each mode;

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through exemplary drawings. In adding reference numerals to components of each drawing, it should be noted that the same components have the same numerals as much as possible even if they are displayed on different drawings. In addition, in describing an embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function hinders understanding of the embodiment of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Also, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used to describe components of an embodiment of the present invention. These terms are only used to distinguish the component from other components, and the nature, order, or order of the corresponding component is not limited by the term. When an element is described as being “connected,” “coupled to,” or “connected” to another element, that element may be directly connected or connected to the other element, but there may be another element between the elements. It should be understood that may be "connected", "coupled" or "connected".

Hereinafter, a refrigerator will be described as an example of a home appliance, but the description of the refrigerator of the present invention includes a cabinet having a space therein; And it can be applied to various home appliances including a door that opens and closes the space. The home appliance may include, for example, a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a clothes care machine, a washing machine, a dryer, a dishwasher, a cooking appliance, and the like.

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

Define direction before description. In an embodiment of the present invention, the direction toward the door is forward based on the cabinet shown in FIG. 1, the direction toward the cabinet is backward based on the door, 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 of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1 , a refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cabinet 10 forming a storage space (or storage area) and a door 20 opening and closing the storage space of the cabinet 10. can include

For example, the cabinet 10 may form a storage space divided up and down, and a refrigerating compartment may be formed at an upper portion and a freezing compartment may be formed at a lower portion. The refrigerating compartment may be referred to as an upper storage space, and the freezing compartment may be referred to as a lower storage space.

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

The door 20 may include a refrigerating compartment door 201 opening and closing the refrigerating compartment and a freezing compartment door 202 opening and closing the freezing compartment. The refrigerating compartment door 201 may be referred to as an upper door and the freezing compartment door 202 may be referred to as a lower door.

As for the refrigerating compartment door 201, a pair of left refrigerating compartment doors and right refrigerating compartment doors may be disposed side by side. The left refrigerating compartment door and the right refrigerating compartment door may independently rotate to open and close the refrigerating compartment. The left refrigerating compartment door and the right refrigerating compartment door may be disposed adjacent to each other and may have the same size.

A pair of the freezer compartment doors 202, a left freezer door and a right freezer door, may be disposed side by side. The left freezer door and the right freezer door are independently rotated to open and close the freezer compartment. The left freezer door and the right freezer door may be disposed adjacent to each other and may have the same size.

Of course, in this embodiment, for convenience of description and understanding, a refrigerator having a structure in which a refrigerating compartment is disposed above a freezing compartment is described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to the shape of a refrigerator and all types of refrigerators equipped with doors are not limited thereto. may be applied to Also, in this embodiment, the refrigerator has been described as including a refrigerating compartment and a freezing compartment, but it is also possible that the refrigerator includes only a refrigerating compartment or only a freezing compartment.

Meanwhile, the door 20 forms the front exterior of the refrigerator 1 in a closed state, and may form the front exterior of the refrigerator 1 in a state where the refrigerator 1 is installed.

The door 20 may have a structure in which the front surface may selectively emit light, and may be configured to emit light in a set color or brightness. Therefore, the user can change the color or brightness of the front surface of the door 20 without separating or disassembling the door 20, and can change the overall appearance of the refrigerator 1.

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

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

2 and 3, the door 20 includes a door body 40 forming the overall shape of the door 20 and a panel assembly 30 forming the front exterior of the door 20. can include That is, the door 20 may be configured such that the panel assembly 30 is mounted on the front surface of the door body 40 .

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

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

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

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

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

An insulating material is formed in the space inside the door body 40 formed by combining the body plate 41, the door liner 42, the side deco 44, the upper cap deco 43, and the lower cap deco 45 may be filled, and may have an insulating structure so that heat transfer does not occur through the door 20. The heat insulating material may be formed as, for example, the foam liquid is filled and then cured. The door body 40 may have an inlet through which the foam liquid is filled.

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

Accordingly, a panel accommodating space 410 having an open front surface may be formed in front of the body plate 41 . The panel accommodating space 410 is formed to a size corresponding to that of the panel assembly 30 , into which the panel assembly 30 can be inserted. The circumference of the panel assembly 30 may be supported by the circumferential surface of the panel accommodating space 410, that is, the protruding parts of the side deco 44, upper cap deco 43, and lower cap deco 45. there is.

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

In a state in which the panel assembly 30 is mounted on the door body 40 , the rear surface of the panel assembly 30 may be tightly fixed to the body plate 41 . Meanwhile, for the fixed mounting of the panel assembly 30, the lower end of the panel assembly 30 is engaged with the lower end of the lower cap deco 45, and the upper end of the panel assembly 30 is the upper cap deco ( 43), the panel assembly 30 can be firmly coupled to the door body 40. The panel assembly 30 may have a structure that can be installed and separated from the door body 40 for service and maintenance.

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

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

A structure for supplying power to the lighting device 36 by being connected to the connector of the wire may be provided on the front surface of the door body 40 .

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

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

4 and 5, the panel assembly 30 includes a front plate 31 forming a front exterior, a lighting device 36 for radiating light so that the front plate 31 shines, and the lighting device. It may include a light guide plate 33 guiding the light emitted from 36 and a diffusion member 32 separating the light guide plate 33 and the front plate 31 and diffusing the light. The diffusion member 32 may also be referred to as a support member in terms of supporting the light guide plate 33 .

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

The panel assembly 30 may further include a back cover 39 forming a rear surface of the panel assembly 30 .

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

The front plate 31 may be transparent so that light reflected by the light guide plate 33 may pass through. In this case, transparency may be defined as the degree to which light reflected from the light guide plate is transmitted and irradiated to the outside.

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

The front plate 31 may be configured such that the light irradiated from the lighting device 36 is transmitted but components behind the front plate 31 are not reflected. That is, in the state in which the lighting device 36 is turned off, the components inside the panel assembly 30 are transmitted through the front plate 31 by the color of the front plate 31 itself. It can be prevented from appearing on the outside.

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

In the panel assembly 30, the entire front surface of the front plate 31 may be exposed to the outside. Accordingly, since light diffused by the diffusion member 32 can pass through the front plate 31 as a whole, the entire front surface of the front plate 31 can be illuminated.

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

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

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

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

Meanwhile, a diffusion member 32 may be provided between the front plate 31 and the light guide plate 33 . The diffusion member 32 allows the light guide plate 33 to maintain a predetermined distance from the front plate 31 and diffuses the light emitted from the light exit surface of the light guide plate 33 .

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

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

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

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

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

The front part 321 may be formed in a plate shape corresponding to the shape of the front plate 31 , and the front surface of the light guide plate 33 may be closely attached to the rear surface of the front part 321 .

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

The front part 321 and the rear surface of the front plate 31 may be coupled by an adhesive part 313 . The adhesive part 313 may include, for example, sealant or double-sided tape.

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

Each of the upper extension part 322 and the lower extension part 324 extends backward from the front part 321, and each length of the upper extension part 322 and the lower extension part 324 is the same as the light guide plate ( 33) is greater than the thickness of

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

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

The diffusion member 32 may further include a light guide plate support part 326 supporting the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33 . The light guide plate support part 326 may extend backward from the rear surface of the front part 321 and be spaced apart from the lower extension part 324 above the lower extension part 324 .

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

The lighting device 36 may be accommodated in the diffusion member 32 . The diffusion member 32 may include an accommodating groove 324a (or an accommodating part) for accommodating a part of the lighting device 36 .

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

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

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

A plurality of light sources 362 may be continuously disposed on the substrate 361 at regular intervals. The light source 362 may be disposed to emit light toward the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33 . That is, the lower surface 333 of the light guide plate 33 is the light incident surface, and the front surface 331 of the light guide plate 33 is the light exit surface.

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

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

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

The light source 362 may be composed of an LED emitting light of a specific color in addition to the RGB LED, or may be composed of a combination of a plurality of LEDs emitting light of different colors. For example, the plurality of light sources 362 are composed of red, green, and blue LEDs and may be repeatedly arranged in sequence. According to the control of the controller 13, the operations of the light sources 362 are combined so that the front plate 31 can shine in a desired color.

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

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

The substrate supporter 37 may support the substrate 361 while seated on the lower extension part 324 . The substrate supporter 37 may dissipate heat generated from the lighting device 36 by conduction.

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

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

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

The rear supporter 34 may be formed of an opaque material that restricts light transmission. The rear supporter 34 may be accommodated in the accommodation space 320a formed by the diffusion member 32 . The upper extension part 322 may cover the upper side of the rear supporter 34 , and the side parts 327 and 328 may cover both side surfaces of the rear supporter 34 .

A lower surface of the rear supporter 34 may be positioned above the substrate 361 . For example, the lower surface of the rear supporter 34 may be seated on the upper surface of the substrate 361 .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the present embodiment, since the diffusion member 32 supports and fixes the position of the light guide plate 33, and the back cover 39 is coupled to surround a portion of the diffusion member 32, the panel assembly ( 30) has an advantage in that the number of its own parts can be reduced and the thickness of the panel assembly 30 in the front and rear directions can be reduced.

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

In this embodiment, the cover body 391 may press the rear supporter 34 toward the rear surface of the light guide plate 33 in a state of being in contact with the rear surface of the rear supporter 34, and the pressing portion 392 ) may directly press the light guide plate 33 .

Meanwhile, the receiving groove 324a may be located at the same level as or lower than the lower surface 311 of the front plate 31 . That is, a portion of the front portion 321 may extend further downward than the lower surface 311 of the front plate 31 .

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

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

The lower trim 35 may include a first part 351 extending in a vertical direction and a second part 352 extending in a horizontal direction from a lower end of the first part 351 . At least the first part 351 may be formed to be opaque or translucent, and may be formed to have a specific color as needed.

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

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

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

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

The front surface of the door 20 may shine in any one color among a plurality of colors under the control of the controller 13 .

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

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

Illustratively, the control unit 14 may include one or

more buttons

141 , 142 , and 143 .

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

If the lock button 143 is called a first button, the remaining buttons may be called a second button or a third button. The order of button names is not limited.

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

As another example, the control unit 14 may further include a mode selection button. One of a plurality of operating modes of the refrigerator may be selected or changed by using the mode selection button.

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

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

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

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

Meanwhile, the lighting device 36 may be operated according to a detection result of the sensing unit 15 .

The detection unit 15 may include, for example, a user detection sensor 151 that detects a user's proximity. As the user detection sensor, various devices capable of detecting a user approaching the refrigerator, such as an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a laser sensor, may be used.

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

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

When the user moves away from the refrigerator 1, the user detection sensor 151 detects this and transmits a signal to the control unit 13 so that the lighting device 36 is turned off.

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

Therefore, when the user detection sensor 151 is disposed at a position corresponding to the gap, the user's proximity can be sensed by the user detection sensor 151 .

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

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

Of course, at least one of the remaining doors of the plurality of doors 20 may also include the knock detection sensor 152 . A door used for checking the internal space of the storage space may be referred to as a visualization door.

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

When the opening of the door 20 is detected by the detector 15, the controller 13 may operate the lighting device 36 or change an operating state.

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

Alternatively, the door opening/closing detection unit 153 may detect opening/closing of the door 20 as well as one or more of a rotation direction, a rotation speed (angular velocity), and a rotation angle of the door 20 .

For example, the door open/close sensor 153 may include an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor. If such a sensor is used, the opening of the door 20, the opening angle of the door 20, the opening speed of the door 20, the closing speed of the door 20, the closing speed of the door 20, etc. detection may be possible.

When the closing of the door 20 is detected by the door opening/closing detection unit 153, the control unit 13 may change the state of the lighting device 36.

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

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

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

The sensing unit 15 may further include an illuminance sensor 154 . The illuminance sensor 154 may detect the ambient illuminance of the refrigerator 1 . The illuminance sensor 154 may be provided in the cabinet 10 or in the door 20 .

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

The refrigerator may further include an output unit 19 . The output unit 19 may include a display displaying information on a screen or a speaker outputting sound or voice. The display may include, for example, an LCD panel. When the display is capable of command input, the output unit 19 may also function as an input unit.

Although not shown, the refrigerator 1 may further include a voice input unit for receiving a voice command. An operation of the refrigerator and an operation of the lighting device may be controlled based on a command input through the voice input unit.

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

At this time, the light guided by the light guide plate 33 passes through the light emitting surface and is diffused while passing through the front part 321, and then passes through the front plate 31 to be transmitted to the outside. Accordingly, the entire front plate 31 is brightly illuminated, and the front surface of the door 20 may be illuminated with a set brightness or color.

When the lighting device 36 is turned on, the front surface of the door 20 may be brightly illuminated, and the front surface of the door 20 may be illuminated in a set color by the light emitted from the light source 362 . In this case, the color of the front surface of the door 20 may be a different color or brightness from a color in a state in which the lighting device 36 is turned off.

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

Accordingly, the front surface of the door 20 is shown in the color of the front plate 31, and at this time, the components inside the panel assembly 30 are displayed according to the color of the front plate 31. and becomes invisible from the outside.

In this state, the lighting device 36 can be turned on, and when the lighting device 36 is turned on, the front surface of the door 20 is illuminated in the color set by the controller 13 .

The front surface of the door 20 may be controlled to shine in a second color different from the first color, and the lighting device 36 may light the door 20 in a second color under the control of the control unit 13. It is possible to control the light source 362 so as to shine.

In this case, a color irradiated from the light source 362 may be different from the second color. That is, since the front plate 31 includes the first color, if the light of the second color is irradiated from the light source 362, the light of the first color in the process of passing through the front plate 31 , the door 20 may actually shine in a third color.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, controlling the light source 362 so that the door 20 emits a specific color actually controls the color emitted from the light source 362 in consideration of the color of the front plate 31 itself. can mean doing

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

On the other hand, some of the doors 20 of the plurality of doors 20 forming the front exterior of the refrigerator 1 emit light or the plurality of doors 20 independently emit light so that the color of the refrigerator 1 is set. You can also form a front facade.

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

If necessary, the left refrigerating compartment door and the right refrigerating compartment door may shine in different colors. The color of at least two or more doors 20 among the doors 20 may be sequentially changed, or at least two or more doors 20 may be sequentially turned on or off.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Of course, as an optional term, it is also possible to refer to the lower two doors as the first door and the second door, and to refer to the two doors above the first and second doors as the third door and the fourth door. .

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

In this specification, the state change of the light source 362 is that the light source 362 is changed from an off state to an on state, that the light source 362 is changed from an on state to an off state, and a light source 362 is turned on. The brightness of the light emitted from the light source 362 is changed, the brightness or color of the light emitted from some of the plurality of LEDs is changed while the light source 362 is on, and the number of LEDs lit is changed. It may include one or more of (increasing the number of LEDs lit or decreasing the number of LEDs lit) and changing the color of light emitted from the light source 362 while the light source 362 is turned on.

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

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

The operating mode of the refrigerator can be set in the refrigerator 1 or in a remote device 2 capable of communicating with the refrigerator.

Hereinafter, setting the operation mode of the refrigerator in the refrigerator 1 will be described as an example.

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

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

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

When the first mode is selected, the specific function can be performed. Depending on the user, the execution of the specific function may interfere with the user or the user may not want to perform the specific function. The second mode may be understood as a do not disturb mode as an example. Accordingly, the user can change the first mode to the second mode. Also, the user can change the second mode back to the first mode.

Execution of a specific function is restricted when the specific function is not performed (the light source and/or the output unit does not operate) or when a specific function is performed, the light source and/or the output for achieving the original function Unlike the operation of the unit, it may mean that the light source and/or the output unit operates or a state is changed.

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

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

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

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

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

The specific time range is set, for example, in the middle of the night and may be set between 9:00 PM and 6:00 AM, and the specific time range is changeable. Therefore, when the current time is 9:00 PM (the start time of the second mode), the first mode is automatically changed to the second mode, and when the current time is 6:00 AM (the end time of the second mode), the second mode is automatically changed. The second mode may be automatically changed to the first mode.

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

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

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

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

Step S2 can also be described as a step of determining whether or not a mode change command has been input by the sensing unit 15 .

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

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

Step S4 can also be described as a step of determining whether or not a mode change command has been input by the sensing unit 15 .

When it is determined that the second reference state is detected by the detector 15, the controller 13 changes the operating mode of the refrigerator 1 from the second mode to the first mode (S1) .

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

In this case, the limiting distance may be set shorter than the reference distance. For example, the reference distance may be set within a range of 1 m to 3 m, and the limit distance may be set to 5 cm.

When the user substantially approaches within the limit distance, the user intentionally places the user's hand (other parts other than the hand or other objects are possible) in front of the user proximity sensor 151 to change the mode.

In order to reflect the user's intention to change the mode, it may be determined that the first reference state has been detected only when a predetermined time has elapsed from the proximity of the limited distance. The limiting distance and the reference distance can be set and changed by the user.

For example, when the user executes the application of the remote device 2 and inputs a reference distance registration command while the user is standing in front of the refrigerator, the distance between the user and the refrigerator is determined by the user sensor 151 as the reference distance. can be registered.

In the same way, when the user executes the application of the remote device 2 in a state where the user's hand approaches the user detection sensor 151 and inputs a limit distance registration command, the user detection sensor 151 detects the user and the refrigerator. The current distance between the spaces may be registered as the limiting distance.

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

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

Substantially, when the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor 154 is less than or equal to the limit illuminance, the user intentionally places the user's hand or other part in front of the illuminance sensor 154 to change the mode.

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

As such, when it is determined that the first reference state is detected by the detector 15, the controller 13 causes the operation mode of the refrigerator 1 to be changed from the first mode to the second mode. can

As another example, when the first reference state is detected, it may be a case where, for example, the knock detection sensor 152 detects that more than a reference number of knocks for mode change are input during a set time.

For example, it may be determined that a mode change command is input when a user knocks on a door equipped with the knock detection sensor four or more times during a set time period.

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

If the second reference state is different from the first reference state, the limiting distance or the limiting intensity of illumination may be set differently, the length of the predetermined time may be set differently, or the reference number may be set differently.

That is, a first limiting distance may be set to detect the first reference state, and a second limiting distance may be set to detect the second reference state.

Alternatively, a first limit illuminance and a first time may be set to detect the first reference state, and a second limit illuminance and a second time may be set to detect the second reference state.

Alternatively, a first reference number of times may be set to detect the first reference state, and a second reference number of times may be set to detect the second reference state.

As another example, steps S2 and S4 may be replaced with a step of determining whether or not an input of a mode change command using the control unit 14 is detected.

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

For example, if the user unlocks the buttons by pressing the lock button 143 for the reference time, and then sequentially or simultaneously presses two or more buttons for the mode change reference time, it is determined that the mode change command has been input. can

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

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

When a mode change command is input using the control unit 14 or the sensor 15, there is an advantage in that an additional button or an additional structure for a mode change command is unnecessary.

As another example, steps S2 and S4 may be replaced with a step of determining whether or not it is detected that a mode change command is input using the voice input unit.

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

For example, after an application is executed in the remote device 2, a mode change menu may be selected in the corresponding application.

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

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

For example, the user may select a limited function in the second mode while changing from the first mode to the second mode. Functions not selected by the user may not be restricted even in the second mode. That is, non-restricted functions may be equally performed in the first mode and the second mode.

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

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

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

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

A function performed by the refrigerator may be different for each event.

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

A first function among a plurality of functions may refer to a function of controlling the light source 362 when a user proximity is sensed.

For example, when it is detected that the user approaches the refrigerator within the reference distance, the light source may be changed from a first state to a second state.

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

A second function among the plurality of functions may be a function of controlling the light source 362 when detecting the opening or closing of the door 20 .

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

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

Among the plurality of functions, a third function may control the open door and/or the light source 362 of the door adjacent to the opened door, or output unit ( 18) may be a function to control.

For example, when opening of one door among a plurality of doors is detected and the closing of the door is not detected until the opening reference time elapses, the light source of at least one door among the opened door and/or the door in the closed state is set to a first light source. state can be changed to the second state. Alternatively, a sound for notifying the door sliding state may be output from the output unit 18 .

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

When door closing is not sensed by the door opening/closing detection unit 153 until the door opening standard time elapses after the door opening, it may be determined (or detected) that an event for performing the third function has occurred.

A fourth function among the plurality of functions may mean a function of differently controlling the operation of the light source 362 for each time period.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In step S11, when it is detected that a specific event has occurred by the refrigerator, the controller 13 may determine whether the current operation mode of the refrigerator is set to the first mode (S12).

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

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

Alternatively, when the set mode is the second mode, the control unit 13 may allow the light source 362 to be maintained in the first state or changed to the third state and may disable the output unit 18. .

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

Regarding the first function, for example, when the user detection sensor 151 does not detect that the user has approached within a reference distance, the light source 362 maintains an off state as shown in FIG. 12(a). can

In the first mode, when the user detection sensor 151 detects that a user is approaching within a reference distance, the light source 362 of one or more doors 20 among the plurality of doors changes from a first state to a second state. It can be.

In the case of (b) of FIG. 12, as an example, it is shown that the light sources 362 of each of the first door 211 and the second door 212 are turned on.

On the other hand, in the second mode, when the user detection sensor 151 detects that a user is approaching within a reference distance, the light sources 362 of each of the plurality of doors 20 may maintain an off state. Alternatively, as shown in (c) of FIG. 12 , each of the light sources 362 of the first door 211 and the second door 212 may be changed from the first state to the third state.

In this embodiment, the light source 362 operating in the first mode and the light source 362 operating in the second mode may be different. For example, when a specific event occurs in the first mode, the light sources of the first door 211 and/or the second door 212 may operate. On the other hand, when a specific event occurs in the second mode, the third door 213 and/or the fourth door 214 may operate. As in the present embodiment, the light source operating in the second mode is a light source of the lower door, and when the light source 362 operates in the second mode, glare to the user can be reduced.

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

Alternatively, the second state is a state in which the light source 362 is turned on and emits light of a first color at a first intensity, and the third state is a state in which the light source 362 is turned on and emits light of a first color. It may be in a state of irradiation with a second intensity smaller than the first intensity. The first intensity and the second intensity may be changed by a user.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Examples of the second and third states related to the first function of FIG. 12 may be equally applied to the second and third states related to the second function in FIGS. 13 and 14 .

Meanwhile, in relation to the third function, when a specific event occurs in the first mode, the light source 362 may change from a first state to a second state or the output unit 18 may operate. On the other hand, when the occurrence of a specific event is detected in the second mode, the light source 362 may maintain the first state or change from the first state to the third state. Also, the output unit 18 may not operate.

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

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

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

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

According to an embodiment, the state of the light source provided in the door can be changed when a specific event occurs, so that the user can easily recognize the refrigerator, approach the refrigerator, or improve aesthetics.

Claims

A cabinet having space;

a door opening and closing the space and having a light source; and

Including a control unit for controlling the light source,

The control unit may operate the home appliance in a first mode or a second mode,

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

When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit controls the light source so that the light source maintains the first state or changes from the first state to a third state.
According to claim 1,

A plurality of functions may be performed in the first mode,

In the second mode, some or all of the plurality of functions are restricted.
According to claim 2,

Further comprising a control unit for changing the mode between the first mode and the second mode,

When the first mode is changed to the second mode by the control unit, all of the plurality of functions are limited.
According to claim 3,

Further comprising a communication unit capable of communicating with an external remote device,

A home appliance capable of restricting some or all of the plurality of functions when the first mode is changed to the second mode through the remote device.
According to claim 3,

The control unit includes a plurality of buttons,

A home appliance whose mode is changed when two or more buttons among a plurality of buttons are pressed sequentially or simultaneously.
According to claim 2,

Further comprising a sensor for mode change between the first mode and the second mode,

When a reference state is detected by the detector, the first mode is changed to the second mode or the second mode is changed to the first mode.
According to claim 6,

The sensing unit includes an illuminance sensor,

A home appliance whose mode is changed when it is detected that the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is equal to or less than the limit illuminance for a predetermined period of time.
According to claim 6,

The sensing unit includes a sensor for detecting a user's proximity,

A home appliance whose mode is changed when the sensor detects that a user has approached within a limited distance for a predetermined period of time.
According to claim 1,

The home appliance that changes to the second mode when the current time reaches the start time of the second mode, and changes to the first mode when the current time reaches the end time of the second mode.
According to claim 1,

The first state is a state in which the light source is turned off, and the second state and the third state are states in which the light source is turned on.
According to claim 10,

The second state is a state in which the light source is turned on and emits light of a first color, and the third state is a state in which the light source is turned on and emits light of a second color;

The second state is a state in which the light source is turned on and irradiates light of a first color with a first intensity, and the third state is a state in which the light source is turned on and emits light of a first color at a second intensity less than the first intensity. is being investigated, or

The second state is a state in which some or all of the plurality of LEDs included in the light source are turned on, and the third state is a state in which fewer LEDs than the number of LEDs turned on in the second state are turned on. .
According to claim 10,

The door includes a plurality of doors,

Each of the plurality of doors includes a light source,

The light source operating in the second state and the light source operating in the third state are different from each other.
According to claim 1,

Further comprising a sensor for detecting the user's proximity,

The home appliance that determines that the specific event has occurred when the sensing unit detects that the user has approached within a reference distance.
According to claim 1,

Further comprising a sensor for detecting the opening and closing of the door,

When the opening or closing of the door is detected by the detector, it is determined that the specific event has occurred.
According to claim 1,

Further comprising a sensor for detecting the opening and closing of the door,

The home appliance that determines that the specific event has occurred when door closing is not sensed by the detector until a reference time for opening the door has elapsed after opening the door.
According to claim 1,

The first state includes a fourth state in which the light source operates when the current time is in the first time zone;

A fifth state in which the light source operates in a second time zone after the first time zone,

When the current time reaches the start time of each time zone, it is determined that the specific event has occurred.
According to claim 1,

a voice input unit for inputting a voice command;

Further comprising an output unit for outputting sound,

When an input of a voice command is detected by the voice input unit, it is determined that the specific event has occurred,

When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit causes the output unit to operate,

When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the controller causes the output unit to not operate or activates the output unit to generate a sound lower than that of the output unit in the first mode.
A cabinet having space;

a door opening and closing the space and having a light source;

an output unit that outputs sound information; and

In order to perform the function of the home appliance, including a control unit for controlling the light source and the output unit,

The control unit controls the home appliance to operate in a first mode or a second mode,

A plurality of functions may be performed in the first mode,

In the second mode, some or all of the plurality of functions are limited,

In order to limit the function, a home appliance for limiting the number of times of output or operation of at least one of the light source and the output unit.
According to claim 18,

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

When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the control unit controls the light source so that the light source maintains the first state or changes from the first state to a third state.
According to claim 18,

When a specific event occurs in the first mode, the control unit causes the output unit to operate,

When the specific event occurs in the second mode, the controller causes the output unit to not operate or activates the output unit to generate a sound lower than that of the output unit in the first mode.