• 한국기계가공학회지
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• 제19권2호
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• pp.89-96
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• 2020

In this study, we developed a finite element model for the built-in bottom-freezer type refrigerator and then used the structural analysis method to analyze and evaluate the deflection of the doors. We tested the validity of the developed analytical model by measuring the deflection of the hinge when loads were applied to the upper and lower hinges of the refrigerating compartment and compared these with the analysis results. The comparison of the vertical displacement of the measured result and the analysis result showed an error ratio of up to 12.8%, which indicates that the analytical model is consistent. Using the analytical model composed of the cabinet, hinges and doors, we performed analyses for two cases: both doors closed, and the refrigerating door open. Since the maximum vertical displacement of the refrigerating compartment door (R-door) with the food load is smaller than the gap between the lower surface of the R-door and the upper surface of the freezer compartment door (F-door), it is judged that the R-door and the F-door do not contact when the doors are opened or closed. In addition, the analysis result showed that the difference between the vertical displacement at the hinge on the opposite side and the hinge side of the R-door is favorably smaller than the management criterion of the refrigerator manufacturer.