REFRIGERATOR

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Application No. 10-2023-0101322 filed on Aug. 2, 2023, whose entire disclosure is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND
1. Field

The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.

2. Background

The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.

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

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

For example, a refrigerator is being released that has a transparent panel assembly formed on the door, allowing the storage space behind the door to be visible even when the door is closed. In such a refrigerator, an insulating layer is provided on the panel assembly to maintain insulating performance.

However, although the heat passing through the panel assembly can be effectively blocked by the insulating layer, the insulating performance of the door deteriorates and power consumption increases due to the heat transmitted along the perimeter of the panel assembly through the spacers constituting the panel assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a state where the door of the refrigerator is opened.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a state where the sub door of the doors is opened.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the sub door viewed from the rear.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the movement of cold air in a state where the door is closed.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of a refrigerator door according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of the door.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of a door according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of a door according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator door according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 12.

FIGS. 15A-15D are views illustrating other refrigerators to which an embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

In addition, it should be noted in advance that, for convenience of explanation and understanding, as an example, the following embodiments only illustrate a refrigerator in which the refrigerating chamber is provided above the freezing chamber and the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the present disclosure is applicable to all types of refrigerators equipped with a door including a panel assembly. In addition, it should be noted in advance that the present disclosure is applicable not only to refrigerators but also to other electronic products including doors including panel assemblies.

Additionally, when components included in multiple embodiments of the present disclosure are the same as each other, they may be denoted by the same reference numerals to prevent duplication of description. Also, the configurations of different embodiments may be combined or replaced with each other.

Before explaining, the direction is defined. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the direction in which a front surface of the door illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 faces may be referred to as a front direction, the direction toward the cabinet based on the front surface of the door may be referred to as a rear direction, the direction toward the floor where the refrigerator is installed may be referred to as a lower direction, and the direction away from the floor may be referred to as an upper direction.

Additionally, the direction toward the center of the panel assembly may be referred to as the inside, and the direction away from the center of the panel assembly may be referred to as the outside. In addition, when you want to talk about an undefined direction, you can redefine and explain the direction based on each drawing.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a state where the door of the refrigerator is opened.

As illustrated, the refrigerator 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cabinet 10 in which a storage space is formed and a door 20 that opens and closes the storage space. For example, the storage space may be divided into upper and lower sections, and a refrigerating chamber 11 may be provided at the upper portion and a freezing chamber 12 may be provided at the lower portion.

The refrigerating chamber 11 consists of one space and may be opened and closed by a pair of refrigerating chamber doors 21. The freezing chamber 12 may be provided at the lower portion of the refrigerating chamber 11. In addition, the freezing chamber 12 may be divided into left and right sides to form independent storage spaces, and may be controlled to different temperatures. In addition, the freezing chambers 12 may be opened and closed by the pair of freezing chamber doors 22. Meanwhile, the refrigerating chamber 11 may be referred to as an upper storage space, and the freezing chamber 12 may be referred to as a lower storage space.

The door 20 may include a refrigerating chamber door 21 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 11 and a freezing chamber door 22 that opens and closes the freezing chamber 12. A pair of the refrigerating chamber doors 21 and the freezing chamber doors 22 may be provided on both left and right sides, respectively. The refrigerating chamber door 21 may be referred to as an upper door, and the freezing chamber door 22 may be referred to as a lower door.

Additionally, hinges 13 may be connected to the upper end and the lower end of the door 20. Hinges 13 are provided at the upper end and the lower end of the door 20, and may be rotatably coupled to the cabinet 10. Some of the doors 20 may be rotated by being coupled by hinges 13, and other doors may be configured to slide in and out.

In addition, at least one of the doors 20 may be configured as a double door structure consisting of a main door 30 and a sub door 40. For example, the refrigerating chamber door 21 may be configured as a double door structure.

The main door 30 is axially coupled to the cabinet 10 by a hinge 13. The main door 30 may open and close the refrigerating chamber 11 by rotating. Additionally, an opening 310 may be formed in the main door 30. The opening 310 penetrates the main door 30 in the front and rear direction and may communicate with the refrigerating chamber 11. Therefore, even in a state where the main door 30 is closed, the refrigerating chamber 11 may be accessed through the opening 310. Additionally, a door storage member 311 may be provided inside the opening 310.

The main door 30 forms the opening 310 and may include a door frame 31 forming the front and peripheral surfaces of the main door 30, and a main door liner 33 behind the door frame 31, and a door cap 32 that forms the upper and lower surfaces of the main door 30. In addition, the inside of the main door 30 may be filled with insulating material 300. Additionally, the main door liner 33 may be provided with a main door gasket 34.

The sub door 40 may be axially coupled to the main door 30 by a hinge 14. Additionally, the sub door 40 can rotate to cover the main door 30 from the front. The sub door 40 may open and close the opening 310.

The sub door 40 may include a door liner 41. Additionally, a door dike 411 may be formed on the door liner 41. Additionally, the door liner 41 may be provided with a gasket 47. Additionally, the sub door 40 may include an upper frame 42, a lower frame 43, and a side frame 44.

The sub door 40 may include a panel assembly 50. The panel assembly 50 may be configured to see through to the storage spaces behind the door 20.

Additionally, a transparent display may be provided between the plurality of panels constituting the panel assembly 50 to enable screen output. Accordingly, both seeing through and screen output of the storage spaces may be possible through the panel assembly 50 of the sub door 40.

Meanwhile, the double door structure as described above may be applied to the refrigerating chamber door 21 and the freezing chamber door 22. Additionally, both of the pair of refrigerating chamber doors 21 may be configured as double door structures. Additionally, the panel assembly may be provided on both sides of the refrigerating chamber door 21 or on one of both sides of the refrigerating chamber door 21.

Hereinafter, the structure of the sub door 40 will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, the structure below may be applied not only to the sub door but also to other doors.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the sub door viewed from the rear, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 3, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 3.

The panel assembly 50 forms the front surface of the sub door 40 in a state of being installed and may cover the liner opening 410 formed in the door liner 41.

The door liner 41 forms the rear of the sub door 40, and the liner opening 410 that is covered by the panel assembly 50 may be formed. A door dike 411 is formed around the liner opening 410, and the door dike 411 may be inserted into the opening of the main door 30. Additionally, a light opening 413 on which the door light 45 is mounted may be formed above the liner opening 410 of the door dike 411.

The door light 45 may include a light case 451 provided within the sub door 40, a light emitting member 452 mounted inside the light case 451, and a light cover 453 that covers the light case 451 and the light opening 413. In addition, the light emitted from the light emitting member 452 may pass through the light cover 453 and illuminate the space behind the sub door 40.

Meanwhile, a mounting groove 412 in which the gasket 47 is mounted may be formed on the rear of the door liner 41. The mounting groove 412 may be formed along the outer perimeter of the door dike 411. Additionally, the mounting groove 412 may be formed to a size into which the mounting part 471 of the gasket 47 may be inserted and fixed. The mounting groove 412 may be recessed so that the mounting part 471 may be inserted. The gasket 47 may be fixed to the door liner 41 in a state where the mounting part 471 is inserted into the mounting groove 412.

The gasket 47 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicon and may be in contact with the front surface of the main door 30 when the sub door 40 is closed to prevent cold air leakage.

The upper frame 42 may form the upper surface of the sub door 40, and the lower frame 43 may form the lower surface of the sub door 40. In addition, the pair of side frames 44 disposed on both left and right sides may form both left and right sides of the sub door 40. The side frame 44 may connect end portions of the upper frame 42 and the lower frame 43.

The side frame 44 may be made of plastic material. In addition, a reinforcing member 441 formed of a metal material may be further provided on the inner surface of the side frame 44. The reinforcing member 441 extends along the side frame 44 and may be formed to correspond to the inner surface of the side frame. Accordingly, deformation of the side frame 44 may be prevented even when the inside of the sub door 40 is filled with the insulating material 400 or when an external impact is applied.

The upper frame 42, the lower frame 43, and the pair of side frames 44 are combined to form a rectangular frame shape and may form the peripheral surface of the sub door 40. In addition, the rear ends of the upper frame 42, the lower frame 43, and the pair of side frames 44 may be coupled to the door liner 41, and the front ends thereof may be coupled to the panel assembly 50. In addition, in a state where the panel assembly 50, the door liner 41, the upper frame 42, the lower frame 43, and the side frame 44 are combined, an insulating material 400 may be filled. The insulating material 400 may be in contact with the peripheral surface of the panel assembly 50.

The front surface of the panel assembly 50 may form at least a portion of the front surface of the sub door 40. For example, the front surface of the panel assembly 50 may form the entire front surface of the sub door 40. Additionally, the rear of the panel assembly 50 may be exposed through the liner opening 410 to form a portion of the rear of the sub door 40.

In detail, the panel assembly 50 may include a first panel 51 forming the front surface, a second panel 52 disposed at the rear spaced apart from the first panel 51, and a third panel 53 disposed at the rear spaced apart from the second panel 52.

The panel assembly 50 may include a third panel 53 forming the rear and a second panel 52 located between the first panel 51 and the third panel 53. The first panel 51, the third panel 53, and the second panel 52 may be made of glass and may be formed in a rectangular plate shape.

For example, the first panel 51 may be made of tempered glass. The first panel 51 may form the entire front surface of the sub door 40. Additionally, the seeing-through part 511 may be formed in the center of the first panel 51, and the opaque part 512 may be formed around the seeing-through part 511. The size of the seeing-through part 511 may be smaller than the second panel 52 and the third panel 53. Additionally, the size of the seeing-through part 511 may be smaller than the liner opening 410. Accordingly, the end portions of the second panel 52 and the third panel 53 may be hidden by the opaque part 512.

The second panel 52 may be provided behind the first panel 51. The second panel 52 may be formed of insulating glass (low-e glass). Of course, the second panel 52 may also be formed of clear glass.

The second panel 52 may be smaller than the first panel 51 and larger than the liner opening 410. Additionally, the second panel 52 may be formed to be larger than the size of the third panel 53.

A first spacer 54 may be provided between the first panel 51 and the second panel 52. The first spacer 54 is formed along the perimeter of the second panel 52 and may maintain a gap between the first panel 51 and the second panel 52. The first spacer 54 may be formed in the shape of a square frame with an opening in the center, and the front surface may be adhered to the first panel 51 and the rear may be adhered to the second panel 52. The first spacer 54 may be formed of thermo plastic spacer (TPS) material. The first spacer 54 may be made of a metal material such as aluminum.

In a state where the first panel 51 and the second panel 52 are adhered to the first spacer 54, a sealed first insulating layer 501 is formed between the first panel 51 and the second panel 52 may be formed. The first insulating layer 501 may provide a structure that may be insulated in a vacuum state. Additionally, insulating gas is injected into the first insulating layer 501 to further improve insulating performance. As an example, the insulating gas may be argon (Ar) gas.

Sealant 56 may be applied to the outer surface of the first spacer 54. The sealant 56 may provide airtightness between the first spacer 54, the first panel 51, and the second panel 52. Additionally, the sealant 56 may be omitted and the first spacer 54 may be disposed up to the sealant 56 area.

The third panel 53 may be disposed rearward of the second panel 52. The third panel 53 may be formed of insulating glass. Additionally, the third panel 53 may be formed to be smaller than the second panel 52. Accordingly, when viewed from the rear, the outer ends of the third panel 53, the second panel 52, and the first panel 51 may be formed to be stepped in order.

A second spacer 55 may be disposed between the second panel 52 and the third panel 53. The second spacers 55 allow the second panels 52 to be spaced apart from each other to maintain a constant distance. The second spacer 55 may be formed of the same material and shape as the first spacer 54, except that the size and disposition position are different.

The second spacer 55 may be disposed along the perimeter of the third panel 53. The second panel 52 may be adhered to the front surface of the second spacer 55, and the third panel 53 may be adhered to the rear of the second spacer 55. Therefore, in a state where the first panel 51 and the third panel 53 are adhered to the second spacer 55, a sealed second insulating layer 502 is formed between the second panel 52 and the third panel 53. The second insulating layer 502 may provide a structure that may be insulated in a vacuum state. Additionally, insulating gas is injected into the second insulating layer 502 to further improve insulating performance. As an example, the insulating gas may be argon (Ar) gas.

Meanwhile, sealant 56 may be applied to the outer surface of the second spacer 55. The sealant 56 may provide airtightness between the second spacer 55, the second panel 52, and third panel 53. Additionally, the sealant 56 may be omitted and the second spacer 55 may be disposed up to the sealant 56 area.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the second spacer 55 may be located at a position L1 that is a set distance away from the end portion of the sub door. Additionally, the first spacer 54 may be located closer to the end portion of the sub door 40 than the second spacer 55.

In addition, the second spacer 55 may be located further inside the first spacer 54. In other words, the first spacer 54 may be located between the inner end of the opaque part 512 and the second spacer 55.

Additionally, the first spacer 54 and the second spacer 55 may be located in the area A between the inner end of the opaque part 512 and the outer end of the first panel 51. Accordingly, both the first spacer 54 and the second spacer 55 are disposed behind the opaque part 512 and may be hidden by the opaque part 512 when viewed from the front.

In addition, the first insulating layer 501 extends further outward than the second insulating layer 502, and the first panel 51, the second panel 52, and the third panel 53 have a stepped disposition structure. Therefore, the cold air behind the panel assembly 50 cannot pass through the shortest distance perpendicular to the panel assembly 50, but moves along the stepped perimeter of the panel assembly 50, thereby lengthening the heat transfer path.

Meanwhile, the mounting groove 412 on which the gasket 47 is mounted is recessed, and the end portion of the second panel 52 is disposed on the outside based on the position L2 of the recessed mounting groove 412, and the end portion of the third panel 53 may be located on the inside. Through this structure, the perimeter of the panel assembly 50 is stepped, thereby lengthening the heat transfer path, while avoiding interference with the mounting groove 412, making it possible to keep the sub door 40 slim.

In detail, the first panel 51 may extend to the upper end and lower end and both left and right ends of the sub door 40. Additionally, the upper end and lower end positions L2 of the second panel 52 may be located outside the mounting groove 412 based on the position L4 of the mounting part. In other words, the upper end and the lower end of the second panel 52 may be disposed closer to the upper and lower end portions of the sub door 40 than the mounting groove 412.

Additionally, the position L2 of both left and right ends of the second panel 52 may be located further outside the mounting groove 412 based on the position L4 of the mounting groove 412. In other words, both left and right ends of the second panel 52 may be located closer to both left and right ends of the sub door 40 than the mounting groove 412.

Accordingly, the second panel 52 and the first spacer 54 extend closer to the end portion of the sub door 40 than the mounting groove 412 to maximize the heat transfer path.

Additionally, the upper end and lower end positions L3 of the third panel 53 may be located inside the mounting groove 412 based on the position L4 of the mounting part. In other words, the top end and lower end of the third panel 53 may be disposed closer to the center of the sub door 40 than the mounting groove 412.

Additionally, the position L3 of both left and right ends of the third panel 53 may be located further outside the mounting groove 412 based on the position L4 of the mounting groove 412. In other words, both left and right ends of the third panel 53 may be located closer to the center of the sub door 40 than the mounting groove 412.

Accordingly, the third panel 53 and the second spacer 55 do not interfere with the mounting groove 412, and a stepped heat transfer path may be formed. In addition, the mounting groove 412 may be recessed without interfering with the third panel 53, thereby sliming the thickness of the sub door 40.

In other words, in the panel assembly 50, the first insulating layer 501 protrudes by a set distance D1, D2 with respect to the end portion of the second insulating layer 502 in the vertical direction and protrudes by a set distance D3 in the left and right direction and thus the heat transfer path may be maximized within the sub door 40, which has a slim structure.

Meanwhile, based on the gasket 47, the end portion of the second panel 52 may be located on the outside, and the end portion of the third panel 53 may be located on the inside.

Meanwhile, a heater bracket 46 and a heater 48 may be provided on the rear of the first panel 51. The heater 48 is disposed along the perimeter of the seeing-through part 511 and may be located at the rear of the opaque part 512. A portion of the first panel 51 is heated by heating by the heater 48, thereby preventing condensation on the front surface of the panel assembly 50.

The heater 48 may be mounted on the heater bracket 46, and the heater bracket 46 may be disposed along the outer surface of the first spacer 54. Additionally, the heater bracket 46 may be embedded in the insulating material 400 while attached to the first panel 51.

Hereinafter, the operation of the refrigerator having the above structure will be examined with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the movement of cold air in a state where the door is closed.

As illustrated, in a state where the refrigerator chamber door 21 is closed, the inside of the refrigerator is cooled and the set temperature thereof can be maintained.

At this time, the third panel 53 of the panel assembly 50 is exposed to the storage space, and the cold air in the storage space cools the third panel 53. At this time, cold air is unable to pass forward due to the second insulating layer 502 and moves outward along the third panel 53.

The cold air moved to the outside of the third panel 53 moves forward along the second spacer 55 and reaches the second panel 52. Cold air that reaches the second panel 52 is unable to pass forward due to the first insulating layer 501 and moves outward along the second panel 52. The cold air moved to the outside of the second panel 52 moves forward along the first spacer 54 and reaches the first panel 51.

In this way, the cold air behind the sub door 40 is prevented from passing in the direction perpendicular to the front surface of the sub door 40, which is the shortest distance, due to the first and second insulating layers 501 and 502, and moves along a heat transfer path formed in a stepped manner around the panel assembly 50. In addition, the heat transfer path can be maximized by avoiding interference with the mounting groove 412, thereby minimizing the loss of cold air.

Additionally, the cold air that has moved to the first spacer 54 along the heat transfer path is prevented from being transferred to the first panel 51 due to heating by the heater 48. Accordingly, condensation on the front surface of the panel assembly 50 may be prevented by driving the heater.

Meanwhile, when the door light 45 is turned on while the sub door 40 is closed, the storage space behind the sub door 40 can be visualized, and the space behind the sub door 40 may be checked through the seeing-through part 511. In addition, when the door light 45 is turned off, the space behind the sub door 40 becomes invisible.

In addition to the above-described embodiments, the present disclosure may be possible in various other embodiments.

The second embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized in that the second heat insulating layer has a structure that protrudes further outward than the first heat insulating layer. The second embodiment of the present disclosure has the same structure as the above-described embodiment except for some structures of the panel assembly, and detailed descriptions of the same structures will be omitted and will be described using the same reference numerals.

Hereinafter, the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 of a refrigerator door according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of the door.

As illustrated, the sub door 40′ of the refrigerator 1 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure may include a panel assembly 50′ and a door liner 41. Additionally, the sub door 40′ may include an upper frame 42 forming the upper surface, a lower frame 43 (see FIG. 5) forming the lower surface, and side frames 44 forming both left and right sides.

The side frame 44 may be made of plastic material. In addition, a reinforcing member 441 formed of a metal material may be further provided on the inner surface of the side frame 44. The reinforcing member 441 extends along the side frame 44 and may be formed to correspond to the inner surface of the side frame. Accordingly, deformation of the side frame 44 may be prevented even when the inside of the sub door 40′ is filled with the insulating material 400 or when an external impact is applied.

A liner opening 410 is formed in the door liner 41. The liner opening 410 may be covered by the rear of the panel assembly 50′. Additionally, a door dike 411 protruding along the liner opening 410 may be formed on the door liner 41. Additionally, a door light 45 may be mounted on the door dike 411.

Additionally, a mounting groove 412 into which the gasket 47 is mounted may be formed along the perimeter of the door dike 411. The mounting groove 412 may be recessed forward. The mounting part 471 of the gasket 47 may be inserted into the mounting groove 412.

The panel assembly 50′ may include a first panel 51, a second panel 52′, and a third panel 53′. The first panel 51 may form the front surface of the sub door 40′. The end portion of the second panel 52′ may be supported by the upper frame 42, the lower frame 43, and the side frame 44.

The third panel 53′ may form a portion of the rear of the sub door 40′.

Additionally, the second panel 52′ may be disposed between the first panel 51 and the third panel 53′. The second panel 52′ may have the same size as the third panel 53′ and may be formed to be substantially smaller than the size of the first panel 51. Additionally, the second and third panels 53′ may be formed to be larger than the size of the liner opening 410.

A first spacer 54′ may be provided between the first panel 51 and the second panel 52′. Accordingly, an airtight first insulating layer 501′ can be formed by the first panel 51, the second panel 52′, and the first spacer 54′. Sealant 56 may be applied to the outside of the first insulating layer 501′.

A second spacer 55′ may be provided between the second panel 52′ and the third panel 53′. Accordingly, an airtight second insulating layer 502′ may be formed by the second panel 52′, the third panel 53′, and the second spacer 55′. Sealant 56 may be applied to the outside of the second heat insulating layer 502′.

The second spacer 55′ may be located further outside the first spacer 54′. Accordingly, the second insulating layer 502′ is formed larger than the first insulating layer 501′ and may extend further outward.

In other words, the second panel 52′, the third panel 53′, and the second spacer 55′ may be formed to protrude further with respect to the first spacer 54′. Accordingly, the end portions of the second panel 52′, the third panel 53′, and the second spacer 55′ may be referred to as protrusions. In addition, based on the second spacer 55′, the first spacer 54′ is located further inside, and a recessed space is formed by the first panel 51, the second panel 52′, and the first spacer 54′ and this can be referred to as a recessed part. A stepped heat transfer path may be formed around the panel assembly 50′ by the protrusions and recessed parts.

In detail, cold air moving along the third panel 53′ exposed to cold air in the storage space is prevented from moving forward by the second insulating layer 502′. The cold air moved outward along the third panel 53′ moves along the second spacer 55′ and is delivered to the second panel 52′. Cold air transmitted to the second panel 52′ is prevented from being transmitted forward due to the insulating material 400 that fills the recessed part. In addition, the cold air moving inward along the second panel 52′ moves forward along the first spacer 54′.

In this way, the cold air in contact with the third panel 53′ cannot move forward, which is the shortest distance, but moves in a longer path along the heat transfer path formed at the end portion of the panel assembly 50′. Therefore, loss of cold air in the storage space may be minimized.

Additionally, a heater 48 in contact with the first panel 51 may be disposed outside the first spacer 54′. Therefore, when cold air is directed to the first panel 51 through the first spacer 54′, the cold air transferred to the first panel 51 by the heat of the heater 48 may be minimized. Therefore, condensation on the front surface of the first panel 51 may be prevented.

Meanwhile, the third panel 53′ and the third panel 53′ forming the perimeter of the panel assembly 50′ may be disposed closer to the center of the panel assembly 50′ than the mounting groove 412. In other words, the position L5 of the end portions of the second panel 52′ and the third panel 53′ may be disposed to be closer to the center of the panel assembly 50′ than the position L4 of the mounting groove 412. Additionally, both the first spacer 54′ and the second spacer 55′ may be disposed closer to the center of the panel assembly 50′ than the position L4 of the mounting groove 412. Additionally, the outer ends of the first and second insulating layers 501′ and 502′ may also be disposed closer to the center of the panel assembly 50′ than the position L4 of the mounting groove 412.

Accordingly, when mounting the panel assembly 50′, the second panel 52′ and the third panel 53′ may be disposed without interfering with the mounting groove 412. In addition, while implementing the above-described heat transfer path, the sub door 40′ can maintain a slim state.

In addition to the above-described embodiments, the present disclosure may be possible in various other embodiments.

The third embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized by having a structure in which the first insulating layer is disposed at the front, and the second insulating layer made of a vacuum insulating layer is disposed at the rear. In the third embodiment of the present disclosure, other structures of the panel assembly except for some structures are the same as the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions of the same structures will be omitted and will be described using the same reference numerals.

Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of a door according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

As illustrated, the sub door 40″ of the refrigerator 1 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure may include a panel assembly 50″ and a door liner 41. Additionally, the sub door 40″ may include an upper frame 42 forming the upper surface, a lower frame 43 forming the lower surface, and side frames 44 forming both left and right sides.

A liner opening 410 is formed in the door liner 41. The liner opening 410 may be covered by the rear of the panel assembly 50″. Additionally, a door dike 411 protruding along the liner opening 410 may be formed on the door liner 41. Additionally, a door light 45 may be mounted on the door dike 411.

The panel assembly 50″ may include a first panel 51, a second panel 57, and a third panel 58. The first panel 51 may form the front surface of the sub door 40″. The end portion of the first panel 51 may be supported by the upper frame 42, the lower frame 43, and the side frame 44.

Additionally, a second panel 57 may be provided behind the first panel 51, and a third panel 58 may be sequentially spaced apart from the second panel 57.

A first spacer 54″ may be provided between the first panel 51 and the second panel 57. A first insulating layer 501″ may be formed between the first panel 51 and the second panel 57 by the first spacer 54″. Insulating gas may be injected into the first insulating layer 501″. In addition, a sealant 56 is applied to the outside of the first spacer 54″ to seal the space between the first panel 51, the second panel 57, and the first spacer 54″.

The position L6 of the first spacer 54″ may be located further inside than the position of the mounting groove 412. In other words, the first spacer 54″ may be disposed closer to the center of the panel assembly 50″ than the mounting groove 412. Additionally, the first spacer 54″ may be positioned between the mounting groove 412 and the liner opening 410. The first insulating layer 501″ may extend between the mounting groove 412 and the liner opening 410.

In addition, the second panel 57 is formed to be smaller than the size of the first panel 51, but the position L7 of the outer end of the second panel 57 may be located further outward than the position L4 of the mounting groove 412. In other words, the end portion of the second panel 57 may extend between the outer end of the sub door 40″ and the mounting groove 412.

The third panel 58 may be formed to have the same size as the second panel 57 and may be provided behind the second panel 57. Additionally, the third panel 58 may cover the door liner 41.

A second spacer 59 may be provided between the second panel 57 and the third panel 58. Additionally, a second insulating layer 502″ may be formed between the second panel 57 and the third panel 58 by the second spacer 59. The second insulating layer 502″ may be configured to have a thinner thickness than the first insulating layer 501″. For example, the second insulating layer 502″ may be formed as a vacuum insulating layer. The thickness of the second insulating layer 502″ is approximately 0.1 mm to 1 mm, thereby ensuring insulation performance and formability while minimizing the overall thickness of the panel assembly 50″.

When the first spacer 54″ is formed of a frit material, it is joined between the second panel 57 and the third panel 58 by plastic processing and thus may combine between the first panel 51 and the second panel 58 in an airtight state. In addition, an exhaust hole may be formed on one side of the second panel 57 or the third panel 58 to exhaust air from the second insulating layer 502″, and a hole cover may be provided to cover the exhaust hole. Additionally, a support member for maintaining the gap may be further provided inside the second insulating layer 502″.

The position L7 of the end portions of the second panel 57 and the third panel 58 may be located further outside than the position L4 of the mounting groove 412. Additionally, the second insulating layer 502″ may extend between the outer end of the sub door 40″ and the mounting groove 412.

Accordingly, the end portions of the second panel 57 and the third panel 58 of the perimeter of the panel assembly 50″ protrude outward to form protrusions, and a space between the second panel 57 and the first panel 51 may be recessed to form a stepped heat transfer path around the panel assembly 50″. In particular, as the second insulating layer 502″ protrudes outward past the mounting groove 412, the heat transfer path may be maximized and power consumption may be reduced by reducing loss of cold air.

Additionally, a heater 48 and a heater bracket 46 may be installed between the recessed first panel 51 and the second panel 57. The heater 48 and the heater bracket 46 are disposed adjacent to the first spacer 54″ to block cold air transmitted through the first spacer 54″.

Additionally, by reducing the thickness of the second insulating layer 502″, the overall thickness of the panel assembly 50″ is reduced. Therefore, when the panel assembly 50″ is installed, interference with the mounting groove 412 is prevented even in a state where a stepped heat transfer path is formed, thereby maintaining the thickness of the sub door 40″ and the heat transfer path may be secured.

Hereinafter, the heat transfer state in the panel assembly 50″ having this structure will be described.

When the cold air in the storage space is in contact with the third panel 58, the cold air is not able to move forward due to the second insulating layer 502″ and moves outward along the third panel 58. Then, the cold air moves forward along the second spacer 59 from the outer end of the third panel 58 and reaches the second panel 57. Cold air at the end portion of the second panel 57 is prevented from moving forward by the insulating material 400 and moves inward along the second panel 57. Additionally, cold air in the second panel 57 is prevented from moving forward by the insulating material 400 and the first insulating layer 501″. Cold air moving along the second panel 57 is directed to the first panel 51 through the first spacer 54″.

In this way, cold air moving along the perimeter of the panel assembly 50″ moves along an increased heat transfer path, and thus the cold air movement path is increased, thereby minimizing cold air loss.

In addition, the cold air delivered to the first panel 51 is further reduced by the operation of the heater outside the first spacer 54″. Therefore, condensation on the front surface of the panel assembly 50″ may be prevented.

In addition to the above-described embodiments, the present disclosure may be possible in various other embodiments.

The fourth embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized by having a structure in which a first insulating layer made of a vacuum insulating layer is disposed at the front, and a second insulating layer is disposed at the rear. The fourth embodiment of the present disclosure has the same structure as the third embodiment except for some structures of the panel assembly, and detailed descriptions of the same structures will be omitted and will be described using the same reference numerals.

Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of a door according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

As illustrated, the sub door 40′″ of the refrigerator 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure may include a panel assembly 50″ and a door liner 41. In addition, the sub door 40′″ may further include an upper frame 42, a lower frame 43, and a side frame 44.

A liner opening 410 may be formed in the door liner 41, and a door dike 411 may be formed along the liner opening 410. Additionally, a door light 45 may be mounted on the door dike 411. Additionally, a mounting groove 412 into which the gasket 47 is mounted is recessed along the perimeter of the door dike 411 so that the mounting part 471 of the gasket 47 may be inserted.

The panel assembly 50″ may include a first panel 51, a second panel 57′, and a third panel 53′. Additionally, a second panel 57′ may be provided behind the first panel 51, and a third panel 53′ may be sequentially spaced apart from the rear of the second panel 57′.

The first panel 51 may form the front surface of the sub door 40″. Additionally, the second panel 57′ may be formed to have the same size as the first panel 51. Accordingly, the first panel 51 and the second panel 57′ may be coupled to each other and supported by the upper frame 42 and the lower frame 43.

A first spacer 59′ may be provided between the first panel 51 and the second panel 57′. Additionally, a first insulating layer 501″ may be formed between the first panel 51 and the second panel 57′ by the first spacer 59′. The first insulating layer 501′″ may be formed as a vacuum insulating layer. The thickness of the first insulating layer 501″ is approximately 0.1 mm to 1 mm, so that the overall thickness of the panel assembly 50″ may be minimized while ensuring insulation performance and formability.

The first spacer 59′ may be formed of frit material. Additionally, the first spacer may couple the first panel 51 and the second panel 57′ in an airtight state. Additionally, an exhaust hole and a hole cover may be provided on one side of the second panel 57′ to make the first insulating layer 501″ into a vacuum state. Additionally, a support member for maintaining the gap may be further provided inside the first insulating layer 501″.

The position L8 of the end portions of the first panel 51 and the second panel 57′ may be located further outside the position L4 of the mounting groove 412. Additionally, the first insulating layer 501″ may extend to the outer end of the sub door 40″. Accordingly, the first insulating layer 501″ can substantially insulate the entire front surface of the sub door 40″.

Meanwhile, the third panel 53′ may be spaced apart from the rear of the second panel 57′. The third panel 53′ may be formed to be smaller than the first panel 51 and the second panel 57′. Additionally, the third panel 53′ may cover the liner opening 410. Additionally, a second spacer 59′ may be provided between the second panel 57′ and the third panel 53′. A second insulating layer 502″ may be formed between the second panel 57′ and the third panel 53′ by the second spacer 59′. Insulating gas may be injected into the second insulating layer 502′″. The second insulating layer 502″ may be formed to be thicker than the first insulating layer 501′″. Additionally, a sealant 56 is applied to the outside of the second spacer 59′ to seal the space between the second panel 57′, the third panel 53′, and the second spacer 59′.

The position L9 of the second spacer 59′ may be located further inside the position of the mounting groove 412. In other words, the second spacer 59′ may be disposed closer to the center of the panel assembly 50″ than the mounting groove 412. Additionally, the second spacer 59′ may be positioned between the mounting groove 412 and the liner opening 410. The second insulating layer 502″ may extend between the mounting groove 412 and the liner opening 410. At this time, the third panel 53′ and the second insulating layer 502″ may extend adjacent to the mounting groove 412 within a range that does not interfere with the mounting groove 412.

In this way, the thickness of the panel assembly 50″ is reduced by combining the first and second insulating layers 501″ and 502″, thereby reducing the overall thickness of the panel assembly 50″. Accordingly, when the panel assembly 50″ is mounted, even when a stepped heat transfer path is formed, interference with the mounting groove 412 is prevented and the thickness of the sub door 40′″ may be maintained.

Hereinafter, the heat transfer state in the panel assembly 50″ having this structure will be described.

When the cold air in the storage space is in contact with the third panel 53′, the cold air cannot move forward due to the second insulating layer 502″ and moves outward along the third panel 53′. Then, the cold air moves forward from the outer end of the third panel 53′ along the second spacer 59′ and reaches the second panel 57′. Cold air at the end portion of the second panel 57′ is prevented from moving forward by the first insulating layer 501″ and moves outward along the second panel 57′. In addition, the cold air of the second panel 57′ flows from the outer end of the second panel 57′ to the first panel 51 through the first spacer 59′.

In addition to the above-described embodiments, the present disclosure may be possible in various other embodiments.

The fifth embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized by having a structure in which the panel assembly is mounted on a door rather than a double door. In the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, the structure of the panel assembly is the same as the above-described embodiment, and there are only some differences in the structure of the door except for the panel assembly. Therefore, detailed descriptions of the same structures will be omitted and will be described using the same reference numerals.

Hereinafter, the fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator door according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12, and FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 12.

As illustrated, the door 21′ is rotatably mounted on the cabinet 10 to open and close the storage space.

In addition, the door 21′ may include a panel assembly 50 forming the front surface of the door 21′, a door liner 61 forming the rear, and. an insulating material 600 filled in a space between the panel assembly 50 and the door liner 61.

The door 21′ may include an upper frame 62 and a lower frame 63 that form the upper and lower surfaces of the door 21′. In addition, the door 21′ may further include side frames 64 forming both left and right sides of the door 21′.

The foaming liquid may be injected into the closed space formed by combining the upper frame 62, the lower frame 63, the panel assembly 50, the door liner 61, and the side frame 64 to form the insulating material 600.

A liner opening 610 may be formed in the center of the door liner 61. Additionally, the rear of the panel assembly 50 may cover the liner opening 610. The door liner 61 may include a door dike 611 protruding rearward along the perimeter of the liner opening 610.

A gasket 66 may be installed on the door liner 61. The gasket 66 is in contact with the cabinet 10 when the door 21′ is closed to prevent cold air leakage. A recessed mounting groove is formed along the perimeter of the door dike 611, and the mounting part 661 of the gasket 66 is inserted into the mounting groove 612 so that the gasket 66 may be fixed.

Meanwhile, the door 21′ may include a door light 65. The door light 65 may illuminate the storage space behind the panel assembly 50 and may be mounted on the door dike 611.

Additionally, the panel assembly 50 may form the front of the door 21′ and cover the liner opening 610 in a state of being installed. In addition, the panel assembly 50 is composed of a plurality of transparent panels 51, 52, and 53, so that the rear of the door 21′ can be seen through. In addition, the front surface of the panel assembly 50 may include a seeing-through part 511 (or transparent part) that sees through the rear of the door 21′, and an opaque part 512 formed opaquely around the perimeter of the see-through part 511 (or transparent part).

The structure of the panel assembly 50 may be the same as any one of the above-described embodiments.

The panel assembly 50 may include a first panel 51 forming the front surface, a second panel 52 provided behind the first panel 51, and a third panel 53 forming the rear. Additionally, a first spacer 54 may be provided between the first panel 51 and the second panel 52 to form a first insulating layer 501. Additionally, a second spacer 55 may be provided between the second panel 52 and the third panel 53 to form a second insulating layer 502. A sealant 56 may be disposed outside the first spacer 54 and the second spacer 55.

The second panel 52 may be formed to be smaller than the size of the first panel 51. Additionally, the third panel 53 may be formed to be smaller than the size of the second panel 52. At this time, the third panel 53 may be formed larger than the size of the liner opening 610. Additionally, the third panel 53 may extend between the end portion of the second panel 52 and the liner opening 610.

Accordingly, the perimeter of the panel assembly 50 can be formed to be stepped, forming a stepped heat transfer path.

In detail, the position L2 of the outer end of the second panel 52 may be located further outside with respect to the position L4 of the mounting groove 612. The end portion of the second panel 52 may extend to one side between the mounting groove 612 and the upper end of the door 21′.

In addition, the position L3 of the outer end of the third panel 53 may be located further outside with respect to the position L4 of the mounting groove 612. An end portion of the third panel 53 may extend to one side between the mounting groove 612 and the liner opening 610.

In other words, based on the mounting groove 612, the second panel 52 may be located further outside, and the end portion of the third panel 53 may be located further inside. In addition, based on the mounting groove 612, the first insulating layer 501 may be located further outside, and the second insulating layer 502 may be located further inside.

Meanwhile, the door light 65 is mounted above the liner opening 610, and at least a portion of the door light 65 may be provided inside the door 21′. At this time, the third panel 53 and the second insulating layer 502 are disposed close to the door liner 61 and therefore do not interfere with the door light 65. In other words, even when the thickness of the door 21′ is so thick that the mounting groove 612 and the panel assembly 50 do not interfere, the end portion of the panel assembly 50 has a stepped shape to avoid interference with the door light 65.

In other words, the outer end of the panel assembly 50 has a stepped structure due to the difference in length between the second panel 52 and the third panel 53, and in particular, the size of the third panel 53 is made smaller to prevent interference with the door light 65 and to increase the heat transfer path.

A heater 48 and a heater bracket 46 on which the heater 48 is mounted may be provided at the rear of the first panel 51. The heater bracket 46 may be provided on the outer surface of the first spacer 54 and may be disposed along the perimeter of the first insulating layer 501. In addition, the heater bracket 46 is provided with a heater 48 to heat the first panel 51 in contact with the first spacer 54.

Hereinafter, the heat transfer state in the panel assembly 50 having this structure will be described.

When the cold air in the storage space is in contact with the third panel 53, the cold air cannot move forward due to the second insulating layer 502 and moves outward along the third panel 53. Then, the cold air moves forward from the outer end of the third panel 53 along the second spacer 55 and reaches the second panel 52. Cold air that reaches the second panel 52 is prevented from moving forward by the first insulating layer 501 and moves outward along the second panel 52. In addition, the cold air of the second panel 52 is directed to the first panel 51 through the first spacer 54 at the outer end of the second panel 52.

In this way, cold air moving along the perimeter of the panel assembly 50 moves along an increased heat transfer path, and thus the cold air movement path is increased, thereby minimizing cold air loss.

Meanwhile, the panel assembly and doors including the panel assembly according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be applied to refrigerators having various structures.

FIG. 15A-15D is a view illustrating other refrigerators to which an embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

As illustrated in FIG. 15A, the refrigerator 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cabinet 10 forming a storage space and a door 20 opening and closing the storage space.

The storage space may include a refrigerating chamber 11 and a freezing chamber 12 formed on both left and right sides. Additionally, the door 20 may include a refrigerating chamber door 21 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 11 and a freezing chamber door 22 that opens and closes the freezing chamber 12. Additionally, the refrigerating chamber door 21 and the freezing chamber door 22 may be disposed side by side on both left and right sides.

Additionally, the panel assembly 50, similar to the above-described embodiment, may be disposed on the refrigerating chamber door 21 to provide visibility into the storage space. The refrigerating chamber door 21 may have a double door structure of a main door and a sub door, as in the above-described embodiment.

Additionally, the panel assembly 50 may be provided on the freezing chamber door 22.

As illustrated in FIG. 15B, the refrigerator 2 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cabinet 10 forming a storage space and a door 20 opening and closing the storage space.

The storage space may be divided in the vertical direction to form an upper storage space 11a and a lower storage space 12a. For example, the upper storage space 11a may be a refrigerating chamber and the lower storage space 12a may be a freezing chamber.

In addition, the door 20 is provided with an upper door 20c that opens and closes the upper storage space 11a by rotation and may be provided with lower doors 20d and 20e that open and close the lower storage space 12a by pulling in and out.

In addition, the panel assembly 50, similar to the above-described embodiment, may be disposed on the upper door 20c to see through the storage space. The upper door 20c may have a double door structure of a main door and a sub door, as in the above-described embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 15C, the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cabinet 10 forming a storage space and a door 20 opening and closing the storage space.

The storage space may be divided in the vertical direction to form an upper storage space 11b and a lower storage space 12b. For example, the upper storage space 11b may be a freezing chamber, and the lower storage space 12b may be a refrigerating chamber.

In addition, the door 20 may be provided with an upper door 20f that opens and closes the upper storage space 11b by rotation and may be provided with a lower door 20g that opens and closes the lower storage space 12b by rotation.

In addition, the panel assembly 50, similar to the above-described embodiment, may be disposed on the lower door 20g to see through the storage space. The lower door 20g may have a double door structure of a main door and a sub door, as in the above-described embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 15D, the refrigerator 5 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cabinet 10 in which a storage space is formed and a door 20h that opens and closes the storage space 11c.

The storage space 11c may be configured as a single space, and the storage space 11c may be opened and closed by a rotating door 20h.

In addition, the panel assembly 50, similar to the above-described embodiment, may be disposed on the door 20g to see through the storage space. The door 20g may have a double door structure of a main door and a sub door, as in the above-described embodiment.

Meanwhile, panel assemblies and doors including panel assemblies according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be applicable to home appliances with various structures in addition to refrigerators. As an example, the panel assembly and the door including the panel assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may also be applied to home appliances which are equipped with a door that opens and closes the space of a cabinet such as a washing machine, dryer, plant cultivation device, air conditioner, styler (clothing care machine), and cooking appliance.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that prevents heat loss through a door that allows internal seeing-through.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator in which the thickness of the door on which the panel assembly is disposed may be minimized.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator that prevents interference between the door internal structure and the panel assembly.

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cabinet forming a storage space; and a door configured to open and close the storage space, in which the door may include a door liner forming a rear of the door and having a liner opening; a gasket mounted at a mounting groove recessed in the door liner; a panel assembly forming a front surface of the door, disposed to cover the liner opening, and configured to see through a space behind the door; and an insulating material filled inside the door excluding the panel assembly, the panel assembly may include a plurality of insulating layers formed by a plurality of transparent panels spaced apart in the front and rear direction, and one of the plurality of insulating layers may extend further toward an outer end of the door with respect to the mounting groove.

Another one of the plurality of insulating layers may extend closer to the center of the panel assembly with respect to the mounting groove.

A peripheral surface of the panel assembly may protrude and be recessed by the plurality of insulating layers to form a stepped surface.

Among the plurality of insulating layers, the insulating layer disposed close to the front surface of the door may be extended further outside with respect to the mounting groove, and the insulating layer disposed further away from the front surface of the door may be extended further inward with respect to the mounting groove.

One of the plurality of insulating layers may be composed of a vacuum insulating layer, another one of the plurality of insulating layers may be composed of an insulating layer injected with insulating gas, and the vacuum insulating layer may be formed to be thinner than other insulating layers.

The vacuum insulating layer may extend further outward than the mounting groove.

The panel assembly may include a first panel forming the front surface of the door; a second panel provided at the rear spaced apart from the first panel and forming a first insulating layer between the second panel and the first panel; and a third panel provided at a rear spaced apart from the second panel, covering the liner opening, and forming a second heat insulating layer between the third panel and the second panel.

The panel assembly may further include a first spacer disposed between the first panel and the second panel; and a second spacer disposed between the second panel and the third panel, and the first spacer may be disposed further away from the center of the panel assembly than the second spacer.

Based on the mounting groove, the second panel may extend closer to the end portion of the door, and the third panel may extend closer to the center of the panel assembly.

The third panel may be located further rear than the recessed end portion of the mounting groove.

The door may include a door light mounted on the door liner and configured to illuminate the rear of the door, and the extended end portion of the third panel may be positioned between the liner opening and the door light.

The mounting groove may be recessed to a space between the second panel and the third panel.

The insulating layer may include a first insulating layer formed between the first panel and the second panel, and a second insulating layer formed between the second panel and the third panel, at least one of the first and second heat insulating layers may be formed as a vacuum insulating layer, and another may be formed as a thicker insulating layer than the vacuum insulating layer.

The first insulating layer may be composed of a vacuum insulating layer, and the first panel and the second panel may extend from the upper end to the lower end of the front surface of the door.

The second insulating layer may be an insulating layer injected with insulating gas and extend until a portion between the liner opening and the mounting groove.

The second insulating layer may be a vacuum insulating layer, and the second panel and the third panel may be formed to be smaller than the first panel and extend until a portion between the mounting groove and an outer end of the door.

The first insulating layer may be an insulating layer injected with insulating gas and extend between the liner opening and the mounting groove.

The door may include a main door configured to open and close the storage space and having an opening; and a sub door provided in front of the main door and configured to open and close the opening, and the panel assembly may be provided in the sub door.

The gasket may be in contact with the main door in a state where the sub door is closed.

The refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure has the following effects.

In the present disclosure, a plurality of panels are disposed in a front and rear direction so that a plurality of insulating layers are formed in the panel assembly, and in this case, the length of the panels may be varied so that the perimeter of the panel assembly is stepped. In other words, the outer ends of the plurality of insulating layers disposed in the front and rear direction protrude or are recessed, and thus the heat transfer path of cold air moving along the panel is increased, the loss of cold air is minimized, thereby having the advantage of reducing power consumption.

In addition, in a double door structure consisting of a main door and a sub door, the thickness of the sub door is relatively thin, but the insulating layer disposed at the front is formed to be larger than the insulating layer at the rear, and thus the panel forming the rear insulating layer does not interfere with the gasket mounting groove while increasing the heat transfer path, thereby preventing an increase in door thickness and minimizing the door thickness.

In addition, one of the plurality of insulating layers constituting the panel assembly may be configured as a vacuum insulating layer, so that the overall thickness of the panel assembly may be thinned, and through this structure, the interference between the protruding end portion of the panel assembly inside the door and the inside configuration of the door may be prevented. In other words, there is an advantage in that the heat transfer path can be made longer by making the protrusion of the panel assembly longer while preventing interference with the door's internal structure.

In addition, by making the size of the rear panel smaller than the front panel, there is an advantage of preventing interference with components such as a door light provided on the inside of the door and simultaneously securing an increased heat transfer path.

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on” another element or layer, the element or layer can be directly on another element or layer or intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

Spatially relative terms, such as “lower”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “lower” relative to other elements or features would then be oriented “upper” relative to the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “lower” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Embodiments of the disclosure are described herein with reference to cross-section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the disclosure. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments of the disclosure should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Any reference in this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,” etc., means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of such phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with any embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the purview of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other ones of the embodiments.

Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

REFRIGERATOR

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Priority Claims (1)