Patent Description:
Generally, a refrigerator is a household appliance that allows low-temperature storage of food in an internal storage space that is shielded by a door. To this end, the refrigerator is configured to store the stored foods in an optimal state by cooling the inside of the storage space using cool air generated via heat exchange with refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle.

Recent refrigerators are becoming increasingly large and multifunctional, depending on changes in diet and high-grade trends. A refrigerator having various structures and convenience devices for the user's convenience and for efficiently using the internal space has been introduced.

The storage space of the refrigerator may be opened or closed by a door. Various types of refrigerators may be classified depending on an arrangement of the storage space and the structure of the door for opening and closing the storage space.

A recent refrigerator has an lighting device capable of illuminating the internal space of the refrigerator as the storage space thereof becomes larger and various foods are stored therein. The lighting device allows the inner space of the refrigerator to be illuminated more brightly so that the user can more conveniently identify and use the contents.

<CIT> discloses a refrigerator equipped with a lighting module mounted on a wall of an inner space of a refrigerator to illuminate an inner space of the refrigerator.

However, the conventional refrigerator has a structure in which LEDs are provided at both ends. Thus, there is a problem that it is difficult to provide an even and bright light quantity via the entire vertical long lighting module.

Further, a light guide plate is required to realize uniform brightness such as surface light. A component for mounting the light guide plate is further required. As a result, the number of overall components of the refrigerator is relatively increased. Thus, there is a problem that the productivity is lowered, the manufacturing cost is increased, and the service performance is lowered.

In addition, in the entire area of the cover part for blocking the LEDs that forms the appearance of the lighting device, only the area where the light guide plate is disposed emits light. The frame of the light guide plate, in particular, the upper and lower end regions where the light source is disposed, cannot emit light, which is disadvantageous in appearance. <CIT> discloses a refrigerator according to the preamble of claim <NUM>.

The invention is defined by the features of appended claim <NUM>.

An embodiment of the present disclosure aims to provide a refrigerator equipped with an lighting device that provides surface light emission and has a simple configuration.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a refrigerator equipped with an lighting device configured to prevent spotlight and to allow light to emit from the entire surface of a cover with uniform brightness.

An embodiment of the present disclosure aims to provide a refrigerator equipped with an lighting device having a light-emitting unit with easy maintenance thereof.

An embodiment of the present disclosure aims to provide a refrigerator that minimizes a connection line generated when the lighting device is installed, thereby improving appearance and preventing contamination.

To this end, in accordance with the present disclosure, there is provided a refrigerator apparatus comprising: a cabinet having an outer case configured to form outer appearance of the refrigerator and an inner case configured to define storage food; a inner case having a refrigerator interior space defined therein; a case opening passing through the inner case; and an lighting device mounted on the case for illuminating surface light through the case opening, wherein the lighting device includes: a lamp case mounted on the inner case and having a cavity defined therein at a position corresponding to the case opening; a light-emitting unit accommodated in the cavity, wherein the light-emitting unit is disposed more outwardly than the case opening, wherein the light-emitting unit irradiates light toward an inner surface of the cavity; a cover coupled with the lamp case to cover the case opening, wherein light from the light-emitting unit is reflected from the cavity through the cover toward the refrigerator interior space; and a reflection portion formed on the cover, wherein the reflection portion is configured to allow light from the light-emission unit directed toward the case opening to be redirected toward the inner surface of the cavity.

In one embodiment, the cover includes: a light-emission portion formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of the case opening, wherein the light-emission portion blocks the case opening and transmits therethrough light reflected from the cavity; and a step portion formed at one end of the light-emission portion and covered by the inner case, wherein the light-emitting unit is oriented to emit light in a direction crossing the step portion.

In one embodiment, the reflection portion protrudes in a round shape from an inner surface of the step portion to refract light emitted from the light-emission unit to be directed to the inner surface of the cavity.

In one embodiment, the reflection portion protrudes in an inclined manner from an inner surface of the step portion to refract light emitted from the light-emission unit to be directed to the inner surface of the cavity.

In one embodiment, the light-emitting unit includes a light-emission member for emitting light, wherein the reflection portion has a height lower than a bottom of the light-emission member.

In one embodiment, the reflection portion includes a planar reflective layer formed an inner surface of the step portion to reflect light emitted from the light-emission unit to be directed to the inner surface of the cavity.

In one embodiment, a reflective surface portion for directing light emitted from the light-emitting unit toward the cover is formed on an inner surface of the cavity, wherein the light-emitting unit faces away the reflective surface portion.

In one embodiment, the light-emitting unit is oriented to irradiate light in a direction opposite to a direction toward an opening of the inner space of the refrigerator.

In one embodiment, the step portion disposed at one end of the cover extends along a back surface of an inner case of the inner case and is constrained by the inner case of the inner case, wherein a rib protruding from the other end of the cover extends rearwardly in contact with the case opening and is inserted into a cover receiving groove defined in the inner case to constrain the rib.

In one embodiment, the inner surface of the cavity has a curvature such that when the rib is disengaged from the cover receiving groove, the step portion is pivotable without interfering with the inner surface of the cavity.

In one embodiment, the lamp case is mounted on an outer surface of the inner case, wherein the cover is insertable through the case opening into the cavity in the inner space of the refrigerator while the light-emitting unit mounted is mounted to the cover.

In one embodiment, one end portion of the cavity defines a cable connection space, wherein the cable connection space is located outside the case opening and is blocked by an inner case of the inner case, wherein the cable connection space receives therein an electric wire passing through the lamp case and connected to the light-emitting unit, and a connector for connecting the electric wire.

In one embodiment, the reflection portion is mounted on the step portion, wherein the light-emitting unit is mounted on the step portion adjacent to the reflection portion, wherein the light emitting unit is mounted on the step potion to be detachable from the step portion via a wire and a connector provided in the lamp case.

In one embodiment, the light-emitting unit includes: a plurality of light-emission members configured for emitting light; and a printed circuit board (PCB) fixedly mounted on the lamp case, wherein the plurality of light-emission members are continuously arranged on the PCB.

In one embodiment, the cover includes: a PCB support bent along an end of the step portion and supporting the PCB; and a PCB fixing portion protruding at a position spaced apart from the PCB support to fix the PCB.

In one embodiment, a fixing-portion receiving groove is defined in an inner surface portion of the cavity to receive an end of the PCB fixing portion.

In one embodiment, the PCB fixing portion includes PCB fixing portions arranged to be spaced apart, wherein a cover support extending from the cover and extending to abut the inner surface of the cavity to support the cover is formed between the PCB fixing portions.

In one embodiment, the PCB support protrudes in a longitudinal direction of the cover beyond the light-emission portion, wherein the connector is disposed on the protruded portion of the PCB support, wherein the protruding end of the PCB support is received inside the cable connection space.

In one embodiment, the lamp case includes: a main case having the cavity defined therein; and an auxiliary case coupled to the main case and covering the step portion.

In one embodiment, the main case and the auxiliary case includes first and second frame portions respectively to define together a circumference of the lamp case, wherein the first and second frame portions have coplanar surfaces adhered to an outer surface of the inner case, wherein the frame of the lamp case surrounds the case opening.

In the refrigerator according to the proposed embodiment, the following effects may be expected. However, effects may not be limited thereto.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the lighting device has the light-emitting unit on one side of the cover. The light emitted from the light-emitting unit may be reflected from the reflective surface of the lamp case, transmitted through the cover, and irradiated externally in a surface light emitting form.

In this connection, the light-emission member is oriented rearward. Thus, when the user views the inner space of the refrigerator from the front, the light-emission member is virtually invisible, thereby preventing the spotlight phenomenon otherwise caused by the light-emission member.

Furthermore, the reflection portion is formed on the stepped portion of the cover on which the light-emission member is mounted. Thus, a portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member is not directly directed to the light-emission portion but is refracted and/or reflected from the reflection portion to be directed to the reflective surface. This prevents the spotlight phenomenon from occurring on the light-emitting portion of the cover.

Therefore, local light concentration through the lighting device does not occur. Thus, light with uniform brightness is provided as a whole. Thereby, there is an advantage that the appearance of the inner space of the refrigerator is excellent and the inner space of the refrigerator is illuminated uniformly.

Further, the light-emitting unit may be mounted together with the cover in the form of a module, so that the mounting of the light-emitting unit is easy, and its replacement or repair is easy.

In particular, with the lighting device being mounted on the cover, the cover may be disengaged from the lamp case and case opening via the pivoting thereof within the interior space of the refrigerator. This is realized by the step portion and the reflection portion of the cover. This has the advantage to simultaneously provide the surface light emission and the easy separation of the cover.

Further, in a state in which the lighting device is mounted, electric wires and connectors connected to the light-emitting unit may be shielded by the inner case in a state where they are accommodated in the cable connection space. Thus, this may provide an easy assembling structure. Further, no additional installation of a cap or frame is required, such that the appearance of the refrigerator is neat.

In addition, since the light-emission portion of the cover is exposed through the case opening without a separate frame or cap, only the connection line between the cover and the inner case is formed, and, there is no need for another connection line, so that the appearance may be further improved.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. The same reference numbers in different figures denote the same or similar elements, and as such perform similar functionality. Also, descriptions and details of well-known steps and elements are omitted for simplicity of the description. Furthermore, in the following detailed description of the present disclosure, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present disclosure.

Examples of various embodiments are illustrated and described further below. It will be understood that the description herein is not intended to limit the claims to the specific embodiments described. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "connected to", or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be present. In addition, it will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intervening elements or layers may also be present.

Spatially relative terms, such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "under," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for ease of explanation to describe one element or feature's relationship 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 in operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" or "under" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example terms "below" and "under" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented for example, rotated <NUM> degrees or at other orientations, and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

It will be further understood that the terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", and "including" when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, components, and/or portions thereof. Expression such as "at least one of" when preceding a list of elements may modify the entire list of elements and may not modify the individual elements of the list.

The present disclosure may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well-known process structures and/or processes have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the present disclosure.

<FIG> shows an open state of a door of a refrigerator according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown in the figure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a refrigerator <NUM> includes a cabinet <NUM> having a storage space defined therein, and doors <NUM> and <NUM> for opening and closing the storage space.

The cabinet <NUM> may include an outer case <NUM> forming an outer appearance and an inner case <NUM> coupled with the outer case <NUM>. The inner case <NUM> forms the inside of the cabinet <NUM>, i.e., the inner surface of the storage space.

The outer case <NUM> may be formed of a plate-shape so as to form an outer appearance of the refrigerator <NUM>. Further, in the case of a built-in type refrigerator, a separate furniture panel may be further attached on the outer case. The inner case <NUM> is made of a plastic material to define the storage space. The inner case <NUM> may be injection-molded. The inner case may be appropriately shaped according to the internal structure of the storage space. Further, between the outer case <NUM> and the inner case <NUM>, a heat insulating material (<NUM> in <FIG>) may be filled. The inside of the storage space may be insulated by the heat insulating material <NUM> to maintain a low temperature state.

The interior of the cabinet <NUM> may be partitioned vertically by a barrier <NUM>. A refrigerating chamber <NUM> may be defined in an upper portion of the cabinet <NUM> while a freezing chamber <NUM> may be defined in a lower portion of the cabinet <NUM>.

Inside the refrigerating chamber <NUM>, various accommodation members <NUM> such as shelves, drawers or baskets may be provided. The accommodation member <NUM> may be detachable or be adjustable in height in the inner space of the refrigerating chamber. Further, the accommodation member <NUM> may be retractable and extendable, if necessary, with the refrigerating chamber door <NUM> opened. Further, a drawer-shaped accommodation member <NUM> that may be drawn out and pushed into the freezing chamber <NUM> may be disposed.

The door includes a refrigerating chamber door <NUM> and a freezing chamber door <NUM>. The refrigerating chamber door <NUM> opens and closes the opened front surface of the refrigerating chamber <NUM> via a pivot movement. The freezing chamber door <NUM> may be configured to open and close the open front of the freezing chamber <NUM> via a pivot movement. Further, each of the refrigerating chamber door <NUM> and the freezing chamber door <NUM> may include a pair of right and left doors so as to shield the freezing chamber <NUM> and the freezing chamber <NUM>, respectively.

The arrangement of the refrigerating chamber <NUM> and the freezing chamber <NUM>, the arrangement and opening and closing scheme of the doors <NUM> and <NUM> and the like will vary according to the type of the refrigerator <NUM>. It may be appreciated that the present disclosure is applicable to all refrigerator <NUM>, and is not limited to the type of refrigerator <NUM>.

<FIG> is a partial perspective view of a structure of the inner case according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, <FIG> is a partially exploded perspective view showing a coupling structure between an lighting device and the inner case according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown in the figure, the inner case <NUM> may define the inner surface of the storage space. In the inner case <NUM>, the barrier <NUM> is formed to divide the storage space into the refrigerating chamber <NUM> and the freezing chamber <NUM>. Grooves or protrusions necessary for mounting the accommodation member <NUM> may be formed in or on the inner wall of the inner case <NUM>. Further, the inner case <NUM> may be equipped with an lighting device <NUM> for illuminating the inside of the storage space.

In the inner wall portion of the inner case <NUM>, a case opening 102a for mounting the lighting device <NUM> therein may be defined. The case opening 102a may be defined at a position where the lighting device <NUM> is mounted. The case opening 102a may be defined in left and right side surface portions or top and bottom portions of the inner case <NUM>. The case opening 102a may be oriented toward the inner space of the refrigerator. Therefore, the interior space of the refrigerator may be illuminated by the light emitted from the lighting device <NUM>.

The case opening 102a may be defined in a front portion of the inner surface portion of the inner case <NUM>. With the doors <NUM> and <NUM> open, the lighting device can brighten the open area of the refrigerating chamber <NUM> or the freezing chamber <NUM>. Further, the case opening 102a is elongated in the vertical direction or the lateral direction. The lighting device disposed in the groove can provide a sufficient amount of light to illuminate the inner space of the refrigerator.

The size of the case opening 102a may be smaller than the size of the lighting device <NUM>. The size of the case opening 102a is defined to be equal to or smaller than the cover <NUM> constituting the lighting device <NUM>. In this way, only the cover <NUM> is exposed in the inner space of the refrigerator, and the rest of the lighting device <NUM> is screened by the inner case <NUM>.

That is, when the lighting device <NUM> is mounted on the outer surface of the inner case <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, substantial light is transmitted through the case opening 102a and only the case opening 102a is exposed toward the inner space of the refrigerator. A peripheral portion <NUM> of a lamp case <NUM> constituting the frame of the cover <NUM> may be screened by the inner case <NUM>.

Further, the outer surface of the cover <NUM> exposed through the case opening 102a may have the same plane as the inner case <NUM>. That is, the outer surface of the cover <NUM> exposed to the inner space of the refrigerator and the inner surface of the inner case <NUM> may not form a step. This allows the appearance to look neat. Except for a connection line between the cover <NUM> and the circumference of the case opening 102a, remaining portions are not exposed.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the lighting device. Further, <FIG> is a partial perspective view showing a mounting state of the lighting device.

The lighting device <NUM> may include a lamp case <NUM> that defines an overall appearance and a cover <NUM> that is coupled to the lamp case <NUM>. Further, the lighting device <NUM> may be mounted in the inner case <NUM> in an assembled state. Alternatively, while at least the lamp case <NUM> is mounted in the inner case <NUM>, the cover <NUM> may be inserted and assembled through the case opening 102a.

That is, only the lamp case <NUM> of the lighting device <NUM> is first installed in the inner case <NUM>. Subsequently, foam liquid is injected into the cabinet <NUM> to form the heat insulating material <NUM>. The cover <NUM> is then assembled to the lamp case <NUM> to complete the assembly of the lighting device <NUM>.

Therefore, when maintenance is required after mounting the lighting device <NUM>, only the cover <NUM> may be separated from the inner space of the refrigerator without detaching the entire lighting device <NUM>, thereby facilitating maintenance.

A frame <NUM>, which is in contact with an outer surface of the inner case <NUM>, may be formed around the lamp case <NUM>. An adhesive member <NUM> such as a double-sided tape or an adhesive may be applied to the peripheral portion <NUM>. Accordingly, the lamp case <NUM> may be fixedly mounted so that the peripheral portion <NUM> is in close contact with the inner case <NUM>. In this connection, the case opening 102a is located in the inner region of the lamp case <NUM>.

The lamp case <NUM> may include a main case <NUM> having a cavity defined therein for accommodating the light-emitting unit <NUM>, and an auxiliary case <NUM> coupled to the main case <NUM> to fix and shield one side of the cover <NUM>. The main case <NUM> and the auxiliary case <NUM> may be coupled to each other to define the frame <NUM> and may be in close contact with the outer surface of the inner case <NUM>.

The lamp case <NUM> is formed of the coupling structure of the main case <NUM> and the auxiliary case <NUM>, thereby making it possible to easily mold the cavity of the lamp case <NUM> and the structure for coupling the cover <NUM>.

In one embodiment, when the cover <NUM> is mounted on the lamp case <NUM>, a portion of the entire cavity of the lamp case <NUM> is shielded by the cover. The portion that is not shielded by the cover <NUM> may be defined as a cable connection space <NUM>. The cable connection space <NUM> is a space in which a connection wire <NUM> and a connector <NUM> extending to the inside of the lamp case <NUM> are connected with a wire <NUM> and a connector <NUM> extending from the light-emitting unit <NUM>.

Accordingly, in a state where the lamp case <NUM> is mounted, the connection cable <NUM> and the connector <NUM> are located inside the cable connection space <NUM>. In this state, a foam molding of the heat insulating material <NUM> is performed. Further, in the process of disposing the light-emitting unit <NUM> inside the lamp case <NUM>, power to the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be supplied via the connection between the connectors <NUM> and <NUM>.

The cable connection space <NUM> is located more outwardly in the lamp case <NUM> than the case opening 102a. Thus, with the lighting device <NUM> being mounted on the inner case <NUM>, the cable connection space may be screened by the inner case <NUM> without being exposed to the outside. Hereinafter, the structure of the lighting device will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

<FIG> is an exploded perspective view of the lighting device viewed from the front. Further, <FIG> is an exploded perspective view of the lighting device viewed from the rear. Further, <FIG> is a cross-section view taken in a line <NUM>-<NUM>' of <FIG>.

As shown in the figure, the lighting device <NUM> may include a lamp case <NUM>, a cover <NUM>, and a light-emitting unit <NUM>. Further, the lamp case <NUM> may include a main case <NUM> and an auxiliary case <NUM>.

More specifically, the main case <NUM> may be injection-molded using a plastic material. The main case <NUM> is coupled to the auxiliary case <NUM> to form the lamp case <NUM>. Further, the main case <NUM> may include a main frame <NUM> and a cavity <NUM> as a whole.

The main frame <NUM> has a surface contacting the outer surface of the inner case <NUM>. The main frame <NUM> may have a surface to which the adhesive member <NUM> such as a double-sided tape is adhered or an adhesive is applied. Further, the main frame <NUM> extends except for a region where the auxiliary case <NUM> is coupled to the main case <NUM>. The main frame <NUM> forms a portion of the frame <NUM>.

The cavity <NUM> may define a space for accommodating the light-emitting unit <NUM>. The cavity may be defined inside the main frame <NUM>. Further, the inner surface of the cavity <NUM> may include a reflective surface 412a formed to be inclined or rounded. The reflective surface 412a is configured to reflect light emitted from the light-emitting unit <NUM> to pass through the cover <NUM>. Coating, vapor deposition, or the like may be performed on the reflective surface to enhance the reflective effect thereof.

At least one side of the cavity <NUM> in which the reflective surface 412a is defined may be formed to be inclined or rounded so as to be closer to the opening of the cavity <NUM> as it goes far away from the position where the light-emitting unit <NUM> is disposed. That is, the light irradiation direction of the light-emitting unit <NUM> and the reflective surface 412a may face each other or cross each other, such that the light emitted from the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be effectively reflected toward the cover <NUM>.

The reflective surface 412a is defined at a position facing one end at which the light-emitting unit <NUM> is mounted, and is formed to be rounded or inclined. Thus, the light may be guided to a light-emission portion <NUM> side of the cover <NUM>. The reflective surface 412a may be defined on the entire inner surface of the cavity <NUM>.

In addition, a pivoting guide portion 412b may be formed at a position on one side of the cavity <NUM> corresponding to a position where the light-emitting unit <NUM> is mounted. The pivoting guide portion 412b may provide a space by which the cover <NUM> and the light-emitting unit <NUM> mounted on the cover <NUM> may be rotated without interfering with the inner surface of the lamp case <NUM> when the cover <NUM> is rotated for separation of the cover <NUM>. For this purpose, the pivoting guide portion 412b may be formed in a rounded shape or may have an inclined or stepped shape to avoid interference.

In this way, the inner surface of the cavity <NUM> may be rounded as a whole. In particular, both ends of the cavity, in which the reflective surface 412a and the pivoting guide portion 412b are formed, may be rounded.

In one embodiment, the cable connection space <NUM> may be defined at the upper end of the cavity <NUM>. Further, in the cable connection space <NUM>, a cable hole 413a passing through the lamp case <NUM> may be defined. Accordingly, the connection cable <NUM> may be introduced into the lamp case <NUM> through the cable hole 413a. The connector <NUM> may be disposed at an end of the connection cable <NUM> inside the lamp case <NUM>.

At one end of the cavity <NUM>, a cover receiving groove <NUM> extending in the up and down direction may be defined. The cover receiving groove <NUM> may extend along the side of the cavity <NUM> in contact with the main frame <NUM>. Further, the cover receiving groove <NUM> is recessed so that the end portion of the cover <NUM> may be received therein. That is, when the cover <NUM> is mounted on the lamp case <NUM>, one end of the cover <NUM> may be inserted into the cover receiving groove <NUM>, so that the end of the cover <NUM> may be fixed thereto and supported thereon.

A coupling protrusion <NUM> may be formed on the other side of the cavity <NUM> opposite the cover receiving groove <NUM>. The coupling protrusion <NUM> is engaged with the auxiliary case <NUM>. The coupling protrusion may protrude so as to engage with the auxiliary case <NUM> at one side thereof. The coupling protrusion <NUM> may protrude to be insertable into a case receiving groove <NUM> defined in the auxiliary case <NUM>.

Further, on the inside of the cavity <NUM> adjacent to the coupling protrusion <NUM>, the fixing-portion receiving groove <NUM> may be defined. The fixing-portion receiving groove <NUM> may have a corresponding size to and a position corresponding to the PCB fixing portion <NUM> such that an end of a PCB fixing portion <NUM> of the cover <NUM> may be inserted into the fixing-portion receiving groove <NUM>. A plurality of the fixing-portion receiving grooves <NUM> may be vertically spaced apart.

The auxiliary case <NUM> is disposed at one end of the main case <NUM> and is coupled to the main case <NUM> to form the lamp case <NUM>. The auxiliary case <NUM> may include a blocking portion <NUM> in contact with the inner case <NUM>, and an outer extension <NUM> and an inner extension <NUM> extending from the back surface of the blocking portion <NUM>.

When the main case <NUM> and the auxiliary case <NUM> are coupled to each other, the blocking portion <NUM> is located on the same plane as the main frame <NUM> and thus defines together the frame <NUM>. Thus, the blocking portion <NUM> along with the main frame <NUM> defines a portion of the frame <NUM>, and may thus be referred to as an auxiliary frame. Further, the adhesive member <NUM> or the adhesive is applied on the blocking portion <NUM>,.

Thereby, via the blocking portion <NUM>, the inner case <NUM> may be attached to the lamp case <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the blocking portion <NUM> extends to abut the top surface of the cover <NUM>. The blocking portion <NUM> may shield one side of the cover <NUM> and at the same time maintain the cover <NUM> in a fixed state. In this connection, the blocking portion <NUM> contacts the step portion <NUM> formed on the top surface of the cover <NUM> such that the blocking portion <NUM> may shield the light-emitting unit <NUM> to prevent the unit <NUM> from being exposed to the outside.

Further, the blocking portion <NUM> may have a length such that the light from the light-emission member <NUM> is prevented from being concentrated onto the light-emission portion <NUM>, thereby preventing the spotlight, while a sufficient amount of light may be ensured.

Specifically, a length L of the blocking portion <NUM> from the inner extension <NUM> to a distal end of the portion <NUM> may be approximately <NUM> to <NUM>. If the length of the blocking portion <NUM> is smaller than <NUM>, the step portion <NUM> of the cover may not be stably fixed and a portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is directly directed to the light-emission portion <NUM> such that a spotlight may be generated on the light-emission portion <NUM>. Therefore, the length of the blocking portion <NUM> is preferably <NUM> or larger such that surface light emission from the light-emission portion <NUM> may be realized without the spotlight occurring on the light-emission portion <NUM>. Further, when the length of the blocking portion <NUM> exceeds <NUM>, the length of the blocking portion <NUM> becomes excessively long, which makes it difficult to separate and assemble the cover <NUM>, and, further, the area of the light-emission portion <NUM> may be narrowed. When the light-emission portion <NUM> is narrowed, the surface light emission area is narrowed. As a result, the total amount of light is reduced, and, hence, the internal space of the refrigerator cannot be sufficiently illuminated. Further, when the blocking portion <NUM> becomes too long, the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> may be excessively shielded, so that the light-emission portion <NUM> may not have sufficient brightness.

The outer extension <NUM> and inner extension <NUM> extending rearward from the back surface of the blocking portion <NUM> may be formed. Each of the outer extension <NUM> and the inner extension <NUM> may extend from the upper end of the auxiliary case <NUM> to the lower end thereof. Further, the outer extension <NUM> may be formed at the outer end of the auxiliary case <NUM>, while the inner extension <NUM> may be spaced apart from the outer extension <NUM>. Further, in the spacing between the inner extension <NUM> and the outer extension <NUM>, the case receiving groove <NUM> into which the coupling protrusion <NUM> is inserted may be defined.

In one embodiment, the outer extension <NUM> has a first stopper protrusion 422a projecting inward of the case receiving groove <NUM>. The first stopper protrusion 422a is engaged with a second stopper protrusion 415a protruded from the coupling protrusion <NUM> of the main case <NUM>. To this end, the first stopper protrusion 422a and the second stopper protrusion 415a may be formed in a hook shape or a shape corresponding to each other.

When the auxiliary case <NUM> is mounted on the main case <NUM>, the coupling protrusion <NUM> of the main case <NUM> is inserted into the case receiving groove <NUM>. At the same time, the first stopper protrusion 422a and the second stopper protrusion 415a are coupled to each other, so that the main case <NUM> and the auxiliary case <NUM> may be firmly coupled and fixed to each other.

The cover <NUM> may be mounted to the lamp case <NUM> such that the cover <NUM> may direct light emitted from the light-emitting unit <NUM> toward the inner space of the refrigerator. Further, the cover <NUM> may be combined with the light-emitting unit <NUM> that emits light. The light-emitting unit <NUM> may be disposed at a position facing the reflective surface 412a of the cavity <NUM> such that the unit <NUM> may irradiate light toward the reflective surface 412a. Accordingly, the light passing through the cover <NUM> comes from light reflected from the reflective surface 412a, whereby the lighting device <NUM> may realize surface light emission. The cover <NUM> and the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be coupled to each other. A combination of the cover <NUM> and the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be mounted on the lamp case <NUM>.

Hereinafter, the structures of the cover <NUM> and the light-emitting unit <NUM> will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a combined state of the cover of the lighting device and the light-emitting unit thereof. Further, <FIG> is an exploded perspective view showing a coupling structure between the cover and the light-emitting unit.

As shown in the figure, the cover <NUM> may be made of a plastic material capable of transmitting light. The cover <NUM> may be mounted to shield a portion of the cavity <NUM> defined in the lamp case <NUM>. Further, the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be fixedly mounted on the cover <NUM>. The unit <NUM> may include a plurality of light-emission members <NUM> and a PCB <NUM> on which the light-emission members <NUM> are mounted.

The cover <NUM> may include the light-emission portion <NUM> formed in a shape corresponding to the case opening 102a and exposed toward the inner space of the refrigerator, and a step portion <NUM> formed to be stepped at one end of the light-emitting portion <NUM> and to which the light-emitting unit <NUM> is mounted. In this way, the cover <NUM> may have a shape of a front surface exposed to the outside. Further, the cover may include a rib <NUM> extending vertically along the periphery of the light-emitting portion <NUM>.

The light emitted from the light-emitting unit <NUM> is reflected from the reflective surface 412a, and then the reflected light is transmitted through the light-emission portion <NUM> to be directed to the inner space of the refrigerator. The light-emission portion <NUM> may be formed to have substantially the same size as the case opening 102a. The light-emitting portion <NUM> may be exposed toward the inner space of the refrigerator through the case opening 102a.

In one embodiment, the back surface of the light-emission portion <NUM> may be subjected to a fine surface treatment such that the portion <NUM> may be capable of diffusing light to realize surface light emission. If necessary, the back surface of the light-emission portion <NUM> may be subjected to a coating or painting treatment such that the portion <NUM> may be capable of having a surface light emission effect.

Further, the rib <NUM> may be formed around the light-emission portion <NUM> except for the portion of the portion <NUM> as connected to the step portion <NUM>. The rib <NUM> extends vertically from the light-emission portion <NUM> at a predetermined length. The ribs <NUM> may be received inside the cavity <NUM> of the lamp case <NUM>. Particularly, one end of the rib <NUM> corresponding to the cover receiving groove <NUM> may be inserted into the cover receiving groove <NUM> to achieve a fixed state of the cover <NUM>. Further, a fixing protrusion <NUM> may be formed on the rib <NUM> for more rigid coupling of the cover <NUM>. The fixing protrusion <NUM> may be engaged with the main case <NUM> on the inside of the cover receiving groove <NUM>.

The step portion <NUM> may be stepped at one end of the light-emission portion <NUM>. On the step portion <NUM>, a blocking portion <NUM> of the auxiliary case <NUM> may be seated. In a state in which the blocking portion <NUM> is seated on the step portion <NUM>, the blocking portion <NUM> is capable of blocking the light-emitting unit <NUM> mounted on the cover <NUM>.

To this end, the auxiliary case <NUM> may be coupled to the main case <NUM> in a state where the cover <NUM> is assembled to the main case <NUM>. Via the coupling between the auxiliary case <NUM> and the main case <NUM>, the blocking portion <NUM> of the auxiliary case <NUM> is seated on the step portion <NUM> to shield the entire step portion <NUM>. The light-emitting unit <NUM> located on the back surface of the step portion <NUM> may be shielded from being exposed to the outside by the blocking portion <NUM>.

A PCB support <NUM> may protrude from the end of the step portion <NUM>. The PCB support <NUM> may extend vertically from the end of the step portion <NUM> and may support the backside of the light-emitting unit <NUM>.

The PCB support <NUM> may have a length and a width corresponding to the length and width of the light-emitting unit <NUM>. Further, the upper end of the PCB support <NUM> may protrude beyond the rib <NUM> of the cover <NUM>, and may extend to the cable connection space <NUM>. Further, the PCB support <NUM> protruding toward the outside of the cover <NUM> may have a hole <NUM> defined therein through which the electric wire <NUM> enters and exits.

Further, a plurality of cut-outs <NUM> may be defined in the PCB support <NUM>. A plurality of PCB fixing portions <NUM> may be formed adjacent the cut-outs <NUM> respectively. The PCB fixing portion <NUM> may be spaced from the PCB support <NUM> by a distance corresponding to the thickness of the PCB <NUM>. Accordingly, the PCB <NUM> may be fixedly mounted between the PCB fixing portion <NUM> and the PCB support <NUM>.

Preferably, the PCB fixing portion <NUM> is positioned between the plurality of light-emission members <NUM> so that the PCB fixing portion <NUM> does not interfere with the light-emission member <NUM> mounted on the PCB <NUM>. Further, an end of the PCB fixing portion <NUM> may be formed in a hook shape to constrain the side edge of the PCB <NUM>.

A cover support <NUM> may be formed between the plurality of PCB fixing portions <NUM>. The cover support <NUM> may protrude from the back surface of the step portion <NUM> and extend to the inner surface of the main case <NUM>. Therefore, when the cover <NUM> is mounted on the main case <NUM>, a portion thereof corresponding to the step portion <NUM> may be supported so that the cover <NUM> is not damaged or the mounting position thereof is not changed even when a load is applied to the cover <NUM>.

Further, the cover support <NUM> is formed adjacent to the PCB fixing portion <NUM>. Therefore, even when the user presses the cover <NUM>, the gap between the cover and the main case <NUM> is maintained by the cover support <NUM> such that the PCB <NUM> is prevented from being damaged. Further, the extended end of the cover support <NUM> may be rounded so that the load exerted through the cover support <NUM> may be distributed.

In one embodiment, a reflection portion <NUM> may be formed to protrude between the PCB fixing portion <NUM> and the end of the step portion <NUM>. The reflection portion <NUM> prevents a portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> from being directly irradiated toward the cover <NUM>. As a result, it is possible to prevent spotlight phenomenon from occurring on the cover <NUM>. Therefore, the reflection portion could be called "spotlight-prevention portion" or "the reflection portion". To this end, the reflection portion <NUM> may be formed so that the amount of light may be secured by directing the refracted and/or reflected light toward the light-emission portion <NUM>.

The reflection portion <NUM> may be formed along the longitudinal direction of the cover <NUM> and may extend from the upper end of the cover <NUM> to the lower end of the cover <NUM>. Further, the reflection portion <NUM> may be formed over the stepped edge area of the step portion <NUM> and may protrude toward the inner surface of the main case <NUM>. The structure of the reflection portion <NUM> will be described in more detail below.

The light-emitting unit <NUM> may include a PCB <NUM> mountable on the cover <NUM> and a plurality of light-emission members <NUM> mounted on the PCB <NUM>. The light-emission member <NUM> may be the LED. The present invention is not limited to this. The light-emission member <NUM> may have another configuration capable of irradiating light, if necessary.

The PCB <NUM> may extend a length corresponding to the length of the cover support <NUM>. The extended top of the PCB <NUM> may protrude to the top of the cover <NUM>. Further, the PCB <NUM> may have a wire connecting portion <NUM> formed thereon. The wire connection portion <NUM> may be located in the cable connection space <NUM>.

The PCB <NUM> is supported by the cover support <NUM>. The PCB <NUM> may be constrained by the PCB fixing portion <NUM> and fixedly mounted on the cover <NUM>. In this connection, the PCB <NUM> may be oriented perpendicular to the cover <NUM>, the inner case <NUM>, or the main frame <NUM> of the main case <NUM>.

Accordingly, the light-emission member <NUM> mounted on the PCB <NUM> is turned on to irradiate light. The light is irradiated in a direction parallel to the cover <NUM>, the inner case <NUM>, or the main frame <NUM> of the main case <NUM>. Further, the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is reflected by the reflective surface 412a of the cavity <NUM> and then is directed toward the cover <NUM>.

The lighting device <NUM> may be mounted such that the step portion <NUM> where the PCB is disposed faces forwardly and the light-emitting portion <NUM> is located behind the step portion <NUM>. Therefore, when the user looks at the inner space of the refrigerator with the inner space of the refrigerator being open, the light-emission member <NUM> mounted on the PCB <NUM> may be prevented from being exposed toward the user.

Further, the reflection portion may be disposed within an irradiation angle range of light irradiated from the light-emission member <NUM>. That is, even when the light-emitting unit <NUM> is disposed at a position adjacent to the light-emission portion <NUM>, the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> may be refracted by the reflection portion <NUM> and hence be prevented from being directly irradiated onto the cover <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view showing the combined structure of the cover and the light-emitting unit.

As shown in the figure, the light-emitting unit <NUM> is disposed on the step portion <NUM> and is mounted such that a back side thereof is supported by the PCB support <NUM>. In this connection, the PCB <NUM> is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the step portion or the light-emission portion <NUM>. The light-emission member <NUM> may be oriented so as to be perpendicular to the side surface of the inner space of the refrigerator.

In this connection, the reflection portion <NUM> may be positioned within a range of the light irradiation angle α of light from the light-emission member <NUM>. The reflection portion <NUM> may be formed to protrude from the back surface of the step portion <NUM>, and may be rounded to have a predetermined curvature. Further, the reflection portion <NUM> may be protruded by a predetermined height. For example, the reflection portion <NUM> may have a radius of curvature R <NUM>, and a projection height H <NUM>.

Accordingly, the reflection portion <NUM> may be curved so as to round from the one end of the step portion <NUM> adjacent to the PCB <NUM> to the other end of the step portion <NUM> adjacent to the cavity <NUM>. In this connection, the projected curvature of the reflection portion <NUM> causes the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> to be refracted, thereby preventing the light from immediately directing to the light-emission portion <NUM>.

In detail, the light in the lower end region of the irradiation range of the light irradiated from the light-emission member <NUM> is directed to the reflection portion <NUM>. In this connection, the light incident on the reflection portion <NUM> may be refracted by the curvature of the outer surface of the reflection portion <NUM>. Thus, the light to be irradiated thereto may be refracted so as to face toward the step portion <NUM> without being immediately directed to the light-emission portion <NUM>. Further, the step portion <NUM> prevents light from passing through a portion shielded by the auxiliary case <NUM> or the inner case <NUM>, but rather, allows the light to be reflected.

Therefore, a portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> may be prevented from directing toward the light-emission portion <NUM>. Thus, light is prevented from being spotted in a region corresponding to the light-emission member <NUM> on the cover <NUM>.

Even when the light-emitting unit <NUM> is not disposed too far from the light-emission portion <NUM>, the spotlight phenomenon does not appear on the light-emission portion <NUM> due to the refraction of light by the reflection portion <NUM>. Thus, surface light emission effect is realized, while a sufficient illuminance to illuminate the inner space of the refrigerator is secured.

Hereinafter, an operation of the lighting device having the above structure will be described with reference to the drawings.

<FIG> is a view showing an operation state of the lighting device.

As shown, when the refrigerating chamber door <NUM> or the freezing chamber door <NUM> is opened or a turn-on command of the lighting device <NUM> is inputted by the user, the lighting device <NUM> is turned on and irradiate light into the interior space of the refrigerator to illuminate the interior space of the refrigerator. In this connection, light is irradiated through the cover <NUM> exposed to the inner surface of the inner case <NUM> toward the inner space of the refrigerator. Thus, the light-emission portion <NUM> of the cover <NUM> realizes a surface light emission/ As a result, not only the inner space of the refrigerator may be illuminated evenly, but also the appearance of the refrigerator may feel more comfortable and bright by the user.

In detail, the light-emission member <NUM> is turned on according to the operation signal of the lighting device <NUM>. Most of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is directed to the reflective surface 412a on the inner side of the cavity <NUM>. Light reflected by the reflective surface 412a passes through the light-emission portion <NUM> of the cover. In this process, the light directed to the light-emission portion <NUM> is reflected light, which enables the same effect as indirect illumination. Further, the light passing through the light-emission portion <NUM> is diffused to be visible as a surface light emission to the outside.

A portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is directed toward the step portion <NUM>. In this connection, if the reflection portion <NUM> is not formed and the step portion <NUM> is formed in a planar shape, the irradiated light may pass through the step portion <NUM> and may be directed to the light-emission portion <NUM>. Accordingly, a spotlight may be generated on the light-emission portion <NUM>. However, according to the present invention, as shown in <FIG>, the reflection portion <NUM> is formed on the step portion <NUM>. As a result, light directed to the step portion <NUM> passes through the reflection portion <NUM>. Then, the light incident on the reflection portion <NUM> is refracted by the curvature of the reflection portion <NUM>. Thereby, the light is directed to the front direction of the step portion <NUM> without being directed to the light-emission portion <NUM>. The front of the step portion <NUM> is shielded by the auxiliary case <NUM> or the inner case <NUM>. As a result, the light directed toward the front of the step portion <NUM> is reflected on the reflective surface 412a and is irradiated to the inner space of the refrigerator through the cover <NUM>.

Therefore, all of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is the light reflected from the reflective surface 412a, and, then, the reflected light passes through the cover. Thus, when viewed from the inner space of the refrigerator, the illumination from the cover <NUM> realizes the same effect as the indirect illumination and causes the surface light emission. Further, it is possible to prevent local spotlight phenomenon, in particular, occurrence of a spotlight phenomenon on a position corresponding to the light-emission member <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the lighting device has a structure that may be separated from the mounted state for maintenance. Hereinafter, the disassembling process of the lighting device will be described with reference to the drawings.

<FIG> shows the disassembly process of the lighting device in sequence.

The lighting device <NUM> maintains the mounted state as shown in <FIG>. When the lighting device <NUM> is mounted on the inner case <NUM>, only the cover <NUM> is exposed toward the inner space of the refrigerator.

In this connection, the outer surface of the light-emission portion <NUM> of the cover <NUM> and the inner surface of the inner case <NUM> have the same plane. That is, while, in the mounted state of the lighting device <NUM>, the light-emission portion <NUM> of the cover <NUM> is inserted into the case opening 102a, the light-emission portion <NUM> of the cover <NUM> only shields the case opening 102a and does not protrude toward the inner space of the refrigerator. Thus, the wall surface of the inner space of the refrigerator in which the lighting device <NUM> is mounted may have a smooth surface without steps thereon.

There is no other connection line except for the boundary line between the light-emission portion <NUM> and the case opening 102a, thereby allowing the appearance to be very clean and to prevent foreign matters to introduced thereto. Further, without additional caps, the wires <NUM> and <NUM> and connectors <NUM> and <NUM>, which are connected to the light-emitting unit <NUM>, are located inside the cable connection space <NUM>, which are shielded by the inner case <NUM>. This allows the appearance to be kept cleaner while maintaining the convenience of assembly and service.

In one embodiment, during use of the lighting device <NUM> with the mounted state, a situation may arise where an abnormality of the light-emitting unit <NUM> necessitates replacement or repair of the light-emitting unit <NUM>. For this or other reasons, situations may arise where disassembly of the lighting device <NUM> is required.

To this end, the user first separates the cover <NUM> from the case opening 102a and the lamp case <NUM> using a tool T, such as a screwdriver or a thin plate, in the interior space of the refrigerator, as in Figure 13a.

When the tool T is inserted into the space between the rib <NUM> of the cover <NUM> and the inner case <NUM> and the tool is lifted up, as in Figure 13b, the rib <NUM> is separated from the cover receiving groove <NUM> and is pivoted about the step portion <NUM>.

Since the step portion <NUM> covers the auxiliary case <NUM> or the inner case <NUM> and does not have a separate coupling structure, the cover <NUM> may be disengaged only by the separation of the ribs <NUM>.

Further, the step portion <NUM> may also have a width that is not excessively large and which allows escaping of the step portion from the cavity <NUM> of the lamp case <NUM> by simple pivoting. Further, the cavity <NUM> has a rounded shape. As a result, no interference occurs during pivoting of the step portion <NUM>. As shown in Figure 13c, after the cover <NUM> is pivoted from the lamp case <NUM>, the cover may exit through the case opening 102a.

In this connection, the above defined width of the step portion <NUM> and the rounded shape of the cavity <NUM> may realize easy separation of the cover <NUM>, effective reflection of the light emitted from the light-emitting unit <NUM>, and spotlight suppression.

That is, if the width of the step portion <NUM> is excessively wide, it is possible to prevent spotlight by blocking light directly directed to the light-emission portion <NUM>. However, when the cover <NUM> is pivoted, the step portion may interfere with the inner surface of the cavity <NUM>, so that the cover may not be easily separated.

However, if the width of the step portion <NUM> is short, the light of the light-emission member <NUM> may be directly directed to the light-emission portion <NUM>, resulting in a spot-light phenomenon. Therefore, in accordance with the present disclosure, the light from the light-emission member <NUM> is refracted by the reflection portion <NUM> formed on the step portion <NUM> to prevent the spotlight phenomenon.

That is, the step portion <NUM> may have a width such that separating the cover <NUM> is achieved via pivoting. At the same time, the reflection portion <NUM> refracts light toward the light-emission portion <NUM> and thus the light is directed to the reflective surface 412a, thereby preventing spotlight while securing a sufficient amount of light.

Further, the inner surface of the cavity <NUM> has a curvature that facilitates the detachment of the cover <NUM>. At the same time, the inner surface of the cavity <NUM> has a curvature that allows the light emitted by the light-emission member <NUM> to be directed to the cover <NUM>. In one embodiment, when the cover <NUM> is completely separated from the lamp case <NUM>, the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be detached together with the cover <NUM> while being coupled with the cover <NUM>.

Furthermore, the cover <NUM> may be completely separated from the lighting device <NUM> by separating the wires <NUM> and <NUM> connected to the light-emitting unit <NUM> and the connectors <NUM> and <NUM> provided on the wires <NUM> and <NUM>. In this state, the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be separated from the cover <NUM>, Then, a repair or replacement operation of the light-emitting unit <NUM> is performed. Thereafter, the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be reattached to the cover <NUM>. Then, after the connectors <NUM> and <NUM> are connected again to the unit <NUM>, the cover <NUM> may be mounted in the reverse order to the above-described procedure.

In this way, when replacement or repair of the lighting device <NUM> is required, there is no need to separate or mount the entire lighting device <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may be easily separated from the inner space of the refrigerator in a state where the lamp case <NUM> is fixedly mounted. Then, the unit <NUM> may be repaired or replaced.

The present disclosure may include various other embodiments as well as the foregoing embodiments. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a reflection portion protruding on the back surface of the step portion is formed in an inclined shape. Another embodiment of the present disclosure is the same as those as described above except for a configuration of the reflection portion. Thus, overlapping descriptions of the same components will be omitted. The same components will be described using the same reference numerals.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of an lighting device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

As shown in the figure, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, an lighting device <NUM> is mounted within the inner case <NUM>. The cover <NUM> is exposed through the case opening 102a so that the light passing through the cover <NUM> illuminates the inner space of the refrigerator. The lighting device <NUM> includes a lamp case <NUM> including the main case <NUM> and an auxiliary case <NUM>, and a cover <NUM> coupled to the lamp case <NUM>. The light-emitting unit <NUM> may be mounted on the cover <NUM>.

In the main case <NUM>, a cavity <NUM> is formed in which the light-emitting unit <NUM> is received. On the inner surface of the cavity <NUM>, a reflective surface 412a may be formed. The light-emission member <NUM> may be positioned in a direction facing away or opposite to the reflective surface 412a. Therefore, the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is reflected by the reflective surface 412a and then directed toward the cover <NUM>.

When the main case <NUM> and the auxiliary case <NUM> are coupled to each other, the blocking portion <NUM> is located on the same plane as the main frame <NUM> and thus defines together the frame <NUM>. Thus, the blocking portion <NUM> along with the main frame 411defines a portion of the frame <NUM>, and may thus be referred to as an auxiliary frame. Further, the adhesive member <NUM> or the adhesive is applied on the blocking portion <NUM>,.

Specifically, a length L of the blocking portion <NUM> from the inner extension <NUM> to a distal end of the portion <NUM> may be approximately <NUM> to <NUM>. The outer extension <NUM> and inner extension <NUM> extending rearward from the back surface of the blocking portion <NUM> may be formed. Each of the outer extension <NUM> and the inner extension <NUM> may extend from the upper end of the auxiliary case <NUM> to the lower end thereof. Further, the outer extension <NUM> may be formed at the outer end of the auxiliary case <NUM>, while the inner extension <NUM> may be spaced apart from the outer extension <NUM>. Further, in the spacing between the inner extension <NUM> and the outer extension <NUM>, the case receiving groove <NUM> into which the coupling protrusion <NUM> is inserted may be defined.

The cover <NUM> may be mounted to the lamp case <NUM> such that the cover <NUM> may direct light emitted from the light-emitting unit <NUM> toward the inner space of the refrigerator. Further, the cover <NUM> may be combined with the light-emitting unit <NUM> that emits light. The light-emitting unit <NUM> may be disposed at a position facing the reflective surface 412a of the cavity <NUM> such that the unit <NUM> may irradiate light toward the reflective surface 412a. Accordingly, the light passing through the cover <NUM> comes from light reflected from the reflective surface 412a, whereby the lighting device <NUM> may realize surface light emission.

The cover <NUM> and the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be coupled to each other. A combination of the cover <NUM> and the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be mounted on the lamp case <NUM>. As shown in the figure, the cover <NUM> may be made of a plastic material capable of transmitting light. The cover <NUM> may be mounted to shield a portion of the cavity <NUM> defined in the lamp case <NUM>. Further, the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be fixedly mounted on the cover <NUM>. The unit <NUM> may include a plurality of light-emission members <NUM> and a PCB <NUM> on which the light-emission members <NUM> are mounted.

In one embodiment, a reflection portion <NUM> may be formed to protrude between the PCB fixing portion <NUM> and the end of the step portion <NUM>. The reflection portion <NUM> prevents a portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> from being directly irradiated toward the cover <NUM>. As a result, it is possible to prevent spotlight phenomenon from occurring on the cover <NUM>. To this end, the reflection portion <NUM> may be formed so that the amount of light may be secured by directing the refracted and/or reflected light toward the light-emission portion <NUM>.

The reflection portion <NUM> may be formed to have an inclined surface that gradually protrudes upwardly as the distance thereof from the light-emitting unit <NUM> increases. In this connection, the protrusion height of the reflection portion <NUM> may be formed to be lower than that of the end portion of the light-emission member <NUM> so as not to block the light-emission member <NUM>. The reflection portion <NUM> may extend from a position adjacent to the light-emitting unit <NUM> to the end of the step portion <NUM>.

Most of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is reflected by the reflective surface 412a and then is directed toward the cover <NUM>. Further, a portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is directed to an inclined surface of the reflection portion <NUM>. Further, light directed to the reflection portion <NUM> may be incident on and refracted from the outer surface of the reflection portion <NUM>. Then, the refracted light is directed toward the front of the step portion <NUM> without being directed to the light-emission portion <NUM>. The front of the step portion <NUM> is shielded by the auxiliary case <NUM> or the inner case <NUM>. As a result, the light directed toward the front of the step portion <NUM> is reflected on the reflective surface 412a and is irradiated to the inner space of the refrigerator through the cover <NUM>.

The present disclosure may include various other embodiments as well as the foregoing embodiments. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a reflection portion formed on the back surface of the step portion is configured to reflect light. Another embodiment of the present disclosure is the same as those as described above except for a configuration of the reflection portion. Thus, overlapping descriptions of the same components will be omitted. The same components will be described using the same reference numerals.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of an lighting device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure.

The cover <NUM> and the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be coupled to each other. A combination of the cover <NUM> and the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be mounted on the lamp case <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may include the light-emission portion <NUM> formed in a shape corresponding to the case opening 102a and exposed toward the inner space of the refrigerator, and a step portion <NUM> formed to be stepped at one end of the light-emitting portion <NUM> and to which the light-emitting unit <NUM> is mounted. In this way, the cover <NUM> may have a shape of a front surface exposed to the outside. Further, the cover may include a rib <NUM> extending vertically along the periphery of the light-emitting portion <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a reflection portion <NUM> may be formed on the step portion <NUM>. The reflection portion <NUM> prevents a portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> from being directly irradiated toward the cover <NUM>. As a result, it is possible to prevent spotlight phenomenon from occurring on the cover <NUM>. To this end, the reflection portion <NUM> may be formed so that the amount of light may be secured by directing the refracted and/or reflected light toward the light-emission portion <NUM>.

The reflection portion <NUM> may be configured to reflect light. The reflection portion <NUM> is formed on the back surface of the step portion <NUM> by coating a light-reflecting paint, attaching a separate light reflection member thereon, or attaching a light reflection member on the step portion <NUM> in various ways such as printing, coating, deposition, attachment, bonding, etc. Therefore, although the reflection portion <NUM> has a planar shape, the reflection portion <NUM> may reflect a portion of the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> to be directed to the reflective surface 412a. The reflection portion <NUM> may be extend from the position adjacent to the light-emitting unit <NUM> to the end of the step portion <NUM>.

The present disclosure may include various other embodiments as well as the foregoing embodiments. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a lamp case to be coupled to the cover is formed of a single body. Another embodiment of the present disclosure is the same as those as described above except for a configuration of the lamp case. Thus, overlapping descriptions of the same components will be omitted. The same components will be described using the same reference numerals.

As shown in the figure, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the lighting device <NUM> includes a lamp case <NUM>' mounted on the inner case <NUM>, the cover <NUM> coupled to the lamp case <NUM>' and exposed through the inner case <NUM> toward the inner space of the refrigerator, and the light-emitting unit <NUM> mounted on the cover <NUM>.

In the lamp case <NUM>', a cavity <NUM> is formed in which the light-emitting unit <NUM> is received.

On the inner surface of the cavity <NUM>, a round reflective surface 412a and a pivoting guide portion 412b may be formed. The reflective surface 412a and the pivoting guide portion 412b may be formed respectively on both side surfaces facing each other. The light-emission member <NUM> may be positioned in a direction facing away or opposite to the reflective surface 412a. Accordingly, the light emitted from the light-emission member <NUM> is reflected by the reflective surface 412a and then is directed toward the cover <NUM>.

Further, the pivoting guide portion 412b is rounded at a position corresponding to the light-emitting unit <NUM>. When the cover <NUM> is separated or mounted via pivoting, the pivoting guide portion 412b prevents the light-emitting unit <NUM> mounted on the cover <NUM> or the cover <NUM> from interfering with the inner surface of the cavity <NUM>.

The cover receiving groove <NUM> into which the rib <NUM> of the cover <NUM> is inserted may be formed at one end of the lamp case <NUM>'. The rib <NUM> inserted into the cover receiving groove <NUM> may be engaged with the inner surface of the cover receiving groove <NUM> in a hook manner. Further, the main frame <NUM> may be formed outside the cover receiving groove <NUM>.

Further, on the other side of the lamp case <NUM>' facing the cover receiving groove <NUM>, the blocking portion <NUM> may be formed. The blocking portion <NUM> extends toward the step portion <NUM> of the cover <NUM>. The blocking portion <NUM> shields the light-emitting unit <NUM> mounted on the cover <NUM> and constrains the cover <NUM> in contact with the cover <NUM>.

An adhesive member <NUM> may be provided on the main frame <NUM> and the blocking portion <NUM>. The adhesive member may be applied such that the lamp case <NUM>' is adhered and fixed to the inner case <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the cover <NUM> may be mounted to the lamp case <NUM>' to shield at least a portion of the cavity <NUM>. The cover <NUM> may include the light-emission portion <NUM> configured for passing therethrough light reflected from the reflective surface 412a, and the step portion <NUM> that is shielded by the blocking portion <NUM> at the side end of the light-emitting portion <NUM>. The light-emission portion <NUM> has a configuration for realizing diffusion of incident light thereto, and thus the light-emission portion <NUM> may realize surface light emission. The light-emission portion <NUM> shields the case opening 102a, so that when the user views the inner space of the refrigerator, the entire case opening 102a executes surface light emission.

The step portion <NUM> may be shielded by the blocking portion <NUM> of the lamp case <NUM>'. Further, the light-emitting unit <NUM> may be disposed behind the step portion <NUM>. The light-emitting unit <NUM> may be positioned at the end of the step portion <NUM>, and the step portion <NUM> may have the reflection portion <NUM> protruding to have a predetermined curvature.

Claim 1:
A refrigerator apparatus comprising:
a cabinet (<NUM>) having an outer case (<NUM>) to form outer appearance of the refrigerator and an inner case (<NUM>) to define an inner space, the inner case (<NUM>) having a case opening (102a);
a lighting device (<NUM>) mounted on the inner case (<NUM>) for illuminating light through the case opening (102a), wherein the lighting device (<NUM>) includes:
a lamp case (<NUM>) mounted on the inner case (<NUM>) and having a cavity (<NUM>) defined therein at a position which allows the cavity to communicate with the case opening (102a);
a light-emitting unit (<NUM>) accommodated in the cavity, wherein the light-emitting unit (<NUM>) is disposed spaced apart from the case opening (102a) along the inner case (<NUM>), and wherein the light-emitting unit emits light toward an inner surface of the cavity; and
a cover (<NUM>) coupled with the lamp case (<NUM>) to cover the case opening (102a), wherein the light emitted from the light-emitting unit (<NUM>) is reflected by the inner surface of the cavity and then radiated toward the interior space through the cover (<NUM>),
wherein the cover (<NUM>) comprises:
a light-emission portion (<NUM>) having a shape for blocking the case opening (102a) and transmitting therethrough light reflected from the cavity (<NUM>); and characterized by
a step portion (<NUM>) extended from one end of the light-emission portion (<NUM>) and covered by the inner case (<NUM>),
wherein the light-emitting unit (<NUM>) is mounted on the step portion (<NUM>) such that the light-emitting unit (<NUM>) is detachable together with the cover (<NUM>) while being coupled with the cover (<NUM>) when the cover (<NUM>) is separated from the lamp case (<NUM>).