Refrigerator

Abstract

The refrigerator of the present embodiment includes a cabinet having a storage space, a refrigerator door connected to the cabinet in a rotatable manner by a hinge device to open and close the storage space, an extension member drawn from the cabinet and connected to the inside of the refrigerator door through a door opening spaced apart from the center of rotation of the refrigerator door, including one or more of a tube for liquid flow and a wire, a guide housing guiding the extension member located outside the cabinet and the refrigerator door, and a cabinet guide fixed to the cabinet to guide linear motion and rotational motion of the guide housing during opening and closing of the refrigerator door.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to refrigerators. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a household appliance that can store food at low temperatures in the storage space inside the refrigerator door. It is configured to use cold air generated by heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle to cool the interior of the storage space, thereby preserving the stored food in optimal condition.

[0003] The refrigerator can be placed independently in the kitchen or living room, or it can be stored in a kitchen cabinet.

[0004] With changes in dietary habits and the trend towards higher-end products, refrigerators are gradually becoming larger and more multifunctional. Currently, refrigerators with various structures and convenient devices designed with user convenience in mind are constantly emerging.

[0005] A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2010-0054353, which is existing literature.

[0006] The refrigerator includes: a main body forming a storage space; a door selectively concealing the storage space of the main body; a wire harness connecting various electrical and electronic components, including a plurality of sensors and switches disposed on the main body and the door; and a wire harness guide for accommodating the wire harness.

[0007] The wiring harness guide includes: a first guide connected to a rotating shaft fixed on one side of the main body; and a second guide having a rotating shaft on one side of the door and connected to the first guide.

[0008] However, in existing literature, the first and second guide members are each formed in a curved shape, and when the door is closed, the wire harness exists in a bent state within each of the guide members. During the opening of the door, the wire harness deforms into an unfolded state through the rotation of each guide member.

[0009] Given the existing literature, the wiring harness undergoes significant deformation during the opening and closing of the door, thus posing a potential risk of damage.

[0010] In the existing literature, with the wire harness contained in each of the guides, the wire harness is exposed to the outside, thus posing a risk of damage to the wire harness due to external obstacles.

[0011] Additionally, the wiring harness may also house a soft water pipe for supplying water to a dispenser or ice maker.

[0012] However, as described in existing literature, when the door is closed and the bending of the soft water pipe is significant, the pipe may try to unfold under tension. In this state, when the door is opened, the soft water pipe may bend excessively in the opposite direction during unfolding, potentially damaging the pipe and causing leaks. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0014] This embodiment provides a refrigerator that minimizes bending of wires and / or water pipes located within the guide housing when the door is closed.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally, this embodiment provides a refrigerator that enables the guide housing to move stably during the opening of the door.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, this embodiment provides a refrigerator that minimizes the bending of wires and / or water pipes during the opening of the door.

[0017] Technical solutions to the problem

[0018] According to one aspect of a refrigerator, it may include: a cabinet having a storage space; a refrigerator door rotatably connected to the cabinet via a hinge mechanism for opening and closing the storage space; an extension member extending from the cabinet and into the interior of the refrigerator door, including one or more of a pipe and a wire for liquid flow; a guide housing guiding the extension member located on the outside of the cabinet and the refrigerator door; and a cabinet guide fixed to the cabinet for guiding the movement of the guide housing during the opening and closing of the refrigerator door.

[0019] The cabinet guide can guide the linear motion and rotational motion of the guide housing during the opening and closing of the refrigerator door.

[0020] When the refrigerator door is closed, the guide housing located on the cabinet guide can be configured in a straight line shape or a shape that is approximately similar to a straight line.

[0021] The extension member can be introduced into the interior of the refrigerator door through a door opening spaced apart from the rotation center of the refrigerator door.

[0022] The guide housing can be constructed by combining a plurality of individual housings. The plurality of individual housings can rotate relative to adjacent individual housings.

[0023] The housing guide may be fixed to the bottom wall of the housing.

[0024] The housing guide may also include a first sidewall and a second sidewall extending upward from both sides of the bottom wall.

[0025] The guide housing may be located between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0026] One or more of the first and second sidewalls may be provided with guide grooves extending along the length of the housing guide. The guide housing may have guide ribs accommodated in the guide grooves.

[0027] The distance between the first sidewall and the second sidewall can be greater than the left and right width of the guide housing.

[0028] The second sidewall may be located closer to the hinge device than the first sidewall. The second sidewall may include an inclined wall that slopes away from the first sidewall. The inclined wall may be located in the portion of the second sidewall adjacent to the refrigerator door.

[0029] The housing guide may include a third sidewall extending rearward from the first sidewall and a fourth sidewall extending rearward from the second sidewall. The upper ends of the third and fourth sidewalls may be lower than the upper ends of the first and second sidewalls.

[0030] One or more of the third and fourth sidewalls may be provided with limiting walls protruding toward the opposite sidewall direction. The guide housing may include limiting ribs that protrude horizontally from the guide housing and are located below the limiting walls.

[0031] Restricting walls may be provided on the third and fourth side walls respectively. The distance between the restricting walls may be greater than the left and right widths of the guide housing.

[0032] The housing guide may further include a guide portion that extends in one direction and guides the tube toward the guide housing side.

[0033] The guide portion may include an extension wall extending in a horizontal direction. The guide portion may also include a support wall extending from the extension wall away from the refrigerator door and supporting the tube.

[0034] An opening may be provided in the extension wall for the tube to pass through.

[0035] The height of the support wall can increase as it moves away from the refrigerator door.

[0036] The vertical cross-section of the support wall can protrude downwards in an arc shape.

[0037] The guide portion may also include a connecting wall that connects the support wall and the extension wall.

[0038] The guide portion may be located behind the hinge assembly. A portion of the hinge assembly may be located between the guide portion and the refrigerator door.

[0039] It may also include one or more cover members that are combined with the guide to surround the tube disposed on the support wall.

[0040] The housing guide may further include a retaining wall for securing the wire. The housing guide may also include a connecting member that engages with the retaining wall.

[0041] With the conductor positioned between the connecting member and one side wall of the housing guide, the conductor can be connected to the connecting member using a cable harness.

[0042] The fixed wall may be located on the opposite side of the guide portion in the housing guide.

[0043] The fixed wall may have a plurality of holes along the first direction, and may also have a plurality of holes along the direction intersecting the first direction.

[0044] The housing guide may also include one or more connecting walls that extend horizontally and are disposed on the top surface of the housing.

[0045] One or more of the aforementioned connecting walls may have through holes for fastening members to pass through.

[0046] Invention Effects

[0047] According to this embodiment, when the door is closed, the housing is guided by the housing guide to be configured in a straight line or a similar line shape, thereby minimizing the bending of the wires and / or water pipes located in the housing.

[0048] According to this embodiment, the guide housing moves in a state guided by the housing guide, thus enabling the guide housing to move stably.

[0049] According to this embodiment, the guide housing that houses the wires and / or water pipes is guided by the box guide during the opening of the door, thus minimizing the bending of the wires and / or water pipes. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the refrigerator in this embodiment.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the guide unit connected to the housing and door.

[0052] Figure 3This is a top view showing the guide unit connected to the housing and door.

[0053] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along line 4-4.

[0054] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along line 5-5.

[0055] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the guide housing in this embodiment.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a top view of the guide housing in this embodiment.

[0057] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the guide housing in this embodiment.

[0058] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the combined structure of the first and second housings.

[0059] Figure 10 This is a side view showing the first and second housings in their combined state.

[0060] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the box guide component in this embodiment.

[0061] Figure 12 This is the front view of the housing guide.

[0062] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the state of the guide housing combined with the housing guide as viewed from the third housing side.

[0063] Figure 14 This is a partial perspective view showing the state of the guide housing attached to the housing guide member.

[0064] Figure 15 This is a top view showing the first door of the present invention open at its maximum angle.

[0065] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the first door of the present invention open at its maximum angle. Detailed Implementation

[0066] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when assigning reference numerals to the constituent elements of the various drawings, the same reference numerals will be assigned to the same constituent elements as much as possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in the process of describing the embodiments of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related well-known structure or function would hinder the understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such a detailed description will be omitted.

[0067] Furthermore, when describing the structural elements of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. Such terms are merely for distinguishing the constituent element from other constituent elements and are not used to define the nature, sequence, or order of the corresponding constituent elements. When a constituent element is described as being "connected," "joined," or "linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that the constituent element can be directly connected or linked to the other constituent element, but it is also possible for another constituent element to be "connected," "joined," or "linked" between the constituent elements.

[0068] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the refrigerator in this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the guide unit connected to the housing and door. Figure 3 This is a top view showing the guide unit connected to the housing and door. Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view cut along line 4-4. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view taken along line 5-5.

[0069] Reference Figures 1 to 5 In this embodiment, the refrigerator 1 can be set up independently in the kitchen, or it can be set up to be housed in an indoor furniture cabinet.

[0070] When refrigerator 1 is placed inside a furniture cabinet in the room, refrigerator 1 can be placed alone or arranged side by side with other refrigerators.

[0071] The refrigerator 1 may include: a cabinet 10 having a storage space; and a refrigerator door 20 for opening and closing the storage space.

[0072] The storage space can be divided into an upper first space 11 and a lower second space 12, but is not limited thereto. The refrigerator door 20 may also include a first door 21 for opening and closing the first space 11 and a second door 22 for opening and closing the second space 12.

[0073] The first space 11 is a refrigerator compartment, and the second space 12 is a freezer compartment, or they can be reversed. Alternatively, the storage space may also include a first space and a second space divided into left and right sections. Alternatively, the storage space may be a single space, or it may be opened and closed by a single refrigerator door.

[0074] One or more of the first door 21 and the second door 22 may be a revolving door. Alternatively, a single refrigerator door 20 may be a revolving door.

[0075] In this embodiment, the two first doors 21 are arranged on the left and right sides as an example for illustration.

[0076] The first door 21 can be rotatably connected to the housing 10 via a hinge device 80. The hinge device 80 may include a hinge pin that provides a rotation center C for the first door 21.

[0077] Either of the two first gates 21 may include a distributor 23. The distributor 23 can discharge water and / or ice. Figure 1 As an example, a distributor 23 is shown in the case where the first door 21 on the left is provided.

[0078] Although not shown, the first door 21 may be equipped with a component for discharging water and / or ice. This component may be electrically connected to the wire 74. Alternatively, in addition to the component, the first door 21 may include a display and / or input section, which may be electrically connected to the wire 74.

[0079] As an example, the wire 74 is connected to the controller disposed in the housing 10 and can be introduced into the first door 21 to be directly or indirectly connected to the component (in the case of connecting to a separate wire disposed inside the first door).

[0080] To allow water to drain from the distributor 23, the distributor 23 can be connected to a water pipe 72 (or a liquid pipe through which other liquids flow). The water pipe 72 can be led out from the inside of the housing 10 to the outside, and then introduced into the inside of the first door 21 through the first door 21.

[0081] It should be noted that, in this specification, the wire 74 and / or the water pipe 72 are introduced into the first door 21 or the box 10, which can also be interpreted as the wire 74 and / or the water pipe 72 being led out from the first door 21 or the box 10.

[0082] The water pipe 72 can be introduced into the first door 21 and connected directly or indirectly to the distributor 23 (in the case of connection with a separate additional water pipe located inside the first door).

[0083] In this embodiment, one or more of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 can be introduced into the interior of the first door 21.

[0084] exist Figure 2 As an example, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 are shown to be introduced into the interior of the first door 21.

[0085] When the refrigerator 1 is installed in a kitchen cabinet, the installation method may vary depending on the size of the cabinet, but typically the refrigerator door 20 may protrude forward from the cabinet. To avoid the refrigerator door 20 protruding forward from the cabinet, reducing the thickness of the refrigerator door 20 can be considered.

[0086] In the case of a typical refrigerator 1, the refrigerator door 20 is relatively thick, which allows for a larger diameter of the hinge pin of the hinge device 80. In this case, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 can pass through the hinge pin.

[0087] However, reducing the thickness of the refrigerator door 20 requires reducing the diameter of the hinge pin. With a reduced hinge pin diameter, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 cannot pass through the hinge pin. In this case, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 can be introduced into the interior of the refrigerator door 20 through the door at a location separated from the hinge mechanism.

[0088] In this embodiment, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 can pass through the first door 21 from one side of the hinge device 80.

[0089] This embodiment may also include a guiding unit 30 for guiding the water pipe 72 and the wire 74.

[0090] The guiding unit 30 can protect the water pipe 72 and the wire 74, and can minimize the exposure of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 to the outside during the opening of the first door 21.

[0091] The guiding unit 30 may include a guiding housing 50 that accommodates the water pipe 72 and the wire 74. The guiding unit 30 may also include a housing guide 40 that is fixed to the housing 10 and guides the movement of the guiding housing 50.

[0092] The housing guide 40 can be attached to a position in the housing 10 adjacent to the hinge device 80.

[0093] The water pipe 72 can be led out from the housing 10 directly behind the hinge device 80 and housed inside the guide housing 50.

[0094] The water pipe 72 extending from the housing 10 can be extended rearward and introduced into the guide housing 50 from the rear side.

[0095] The upper side wall 101 of the housing 10 may be provided with a protective guide 120 for the water supply pipe 72 to pass through and to protect the water pipe 72.

[0096] Inside the housing 10, a guide pipe 110 may be provided, which is connected to the protective guide 120 and guides the water pipe 72.

[0097] The wire 74 is located on the opposite side of the water pipe 72 with reference to the guide housing 50, and can be introduced into the guide housing 50 from the rear side of the guide housing 50.

[0098] Therefore, with the guide housing 50 as a reference, the water pipe 72 and the hinge device 80 can be located on one side, and the wire 74 can be located on the other side.

[0099] With the first door 21 closed, the guide housing 50 can extend in a straight line. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The guide housing 50 can extend in a straight line along the front-to-back direction. In this embodiment, "straight line" can mean not only a perfectly straight line, but also a shape that is approximately a straight line.

[0100] Therefore, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 can also be guided in a straight line toward the first door 21 within the guide housing 50.

[0101] The top surface of the first door 21 may be located at a higher position than the top surface of the housing 10. To connect the guide housing 50 to the first door 21, the first door 21 may include a recess 210.

[0102] The recess 210 may be formed by the back of the first door 21 being recessed forward, or by the side of the first door 21 being recessed. The recess 210 may be positioned at a location spaced downward from the top of the first door 21.

[0103] In fact, the bottom 212 of the recess 210 may be located at the same height as the top surface of the housing 10, or the height may be approximately similar.

[0104] A portion of the hinge device 80 may be inserted into the recess 210 and connected to the bottom 212.

[0105] With the first door 21 closed, a portion of the guide housing 50, which extends in a straight line, can be inserted into the recess 210 and connected to the bottom 212 via the door fixing part 90.

[0106] In this embodiment, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 are guided in a straight line within the guide housing 50 to the recess 210 of the first door 21, thus minimizing the bending of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 within the guide housing 50.

[0107] A door opening may be formed at the bottom 212 of the recess 210. A water pipe 72 and a wire 74 introduced into the recess 210 may pass through the door opening and be introduced into the interior of the first door 21. Alternatively, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 leading out from the interior of the first door 21 through the door opening may be guided toward the housing 10 by the guide housing 50.

[0108] The guide housing will now be described in detail.

[0109] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the guide housing in this embodiment. Figure 7 This is a top view of the guide housing in this embodiment. Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the guide housing in this embodiment. Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the combined structure of the first and second housings. Figure 10 This is a side view showing the first and second housings in their combined state.

[0110] Reference Figures 6 to 10 The guide housing 50 can be formed by combining a plurality of individual housings.

[0111] As an example, the guide housing 50 may include a first housing 510 and a second housing 530.

[0112] The first housing 510 can be rotatably connected to the first door 21. In this embodiment, the first housing 510 can be referred to as the door connection housing.

[0113] The second housing 530 can be rotatably connected to the first housing 510.

[0114] The guide housing 50 may also include a third housing 550.

[0115] The third housing 550 can be rotatably connected to the second housing 530 and can be movably connected to the housing guide 40. In this embodiment, the third housing 550 can be referred to as the guide connecting housing.

[0116] In this embodiment, the second housing 530 can be referred to as an intermediate housing located between the first housing 510 and the third housing 550.

[0117] In this embodiment, an intermediate housing is provided between the first housing 510 and the third housing 550. However, unlike this, a plurality of intermediate housings can also be provided.

[0118] However, with an increase in the number of intermediate shells, the overall structure of the guide shell becomes more complex, and the assembly process also becomes more complicated. Therefore, it may be more ideal to provide one or two intermediate shells between the first shell 510 and the third shell 550.

[0119] A portion of the first housing 510 may extend in a straight line in the horizontal direction, while another portion may be bent and extend in the vertical direction. The portion extending in the vertical direction may be connected to the first door 21.

[0120] Therefore, the water pipe 72 extending horizontally through the first housing 510 and the wire 74 can be bent and pass through the first door 21 in the vertical direction.

[0121] The first housing 510 may include a first upper housing 520 and a first lower housing 524 coupled to the first upper housing 520.

[0122] The combination of the first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524 forms a channel for configuring the water pipe 72 and the wire 74. Alternatively, the first lower housing 524 can form the channel, and the first upper housing 520 can cover the channel.

[0123] With the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 housed within the first housing 510, the exposure of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 to the outside can be minimized.

[0124] As an example, the first lower housing 524 may include a horizontal extension 525 and vertical extensions 526 bent from the end of the horizontal extension. The first upper housing 520 may be combined with the horizontal extension 525.

[0125] Therefore, the water pipe 72 and the wire 74, which extend horizontally through the horizontal extension 525, can be bent through the vertical extension 526 and extend vertically.

[0126] A flange 527 may be provided at the lower end of the upper and lower extensions 526. As an example, the line extending along the outer periphery of the flange 527 may be circular. The flange 527 may be mounted on the first door 21 and rotate relative to the first door 21.

[0127] The first upper housing 520 may include hooks 521 for engaging with the first lower housing 524. For example, hooks 521 may be provided on both sides of the first upper housing 520. A plurality of hooks 521 may be provided along the length direction (X-axis direction) of the first upper housing 520 to increase the bonding force between the first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524. In this embodiment, the "length direction" may be the front-to-back direction of the refrigerator or the extension direction of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 in the horizontal extension 525.

[0128] The first lower housing 524 may include hook slots 529 for engaging with the hooks 521. The number of hook slots 529 is the same as the number of hooks 521.

[0129] The first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524 can be joined in a direction intersecting the length direction (for example, the Z-axis direction).

[0130] As an example, the first upper housing 520 can move downwards to engage with the first lower housing 524. The first lower housing 524 may include a guide groove 528 for guiding the hook 521 during engagement with the first upper housing 520. The guide groove 528 may be formed as a portion of the top surface of the first lower housing 524 is recessed downwards. Alternatively, the guide groove 528 may be formed as a portion of the inner surface of the first lower housing 524 is recessed outwards.

[0131] The latch slot 529 can be located at a position corresponding to the lower end of the guide groove 528. Therefore, if the latch 521 aligns with the latch slot 529 as it moves downward along the guide groove 528, it can be inserted into and engaged with the latch slot 529.

[0132] Conversely, the first lower housing 524 may be configured to include a hook, and the first upper housing 520 may include a hook slot and a guide groove.

[0133] The first housing 510 can be rotatably connected to the second housing 530. For this purpose, the first housing 510 may include a hinge hole 522.

[0134] The hinge holes 522 can be formed in the first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524 respectively. The pair of hinge holes 522 formed in the first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524 respectively can be aligned in the vertical direction.

[0135] The hinge hole 522 can be configured at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the respective first end of the first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524 toward the second end.

[0136] In this embodiment, the first end is the end located adjacent to the second housing 530, and the second end is the end located on the opposite side of the first end.

[0137] The second housing 530 can be rotatably connected to the first housing 510. As an example, the second housing 530 can be rotatably connected to the first housing 510 with reference to the first joint (or the first rotation center).

[0138] When the first door 21 is in the closed state and then opened, the first housing 510 can rotate relative to the second housing 530 only in the first direction. In this embodiment, with Figure 7 Based on this, the first direction represents the clockwise direction.

[0139] As an example, the first housing 510 may include a first contact surface 511 that contacts the front surface 531 of the second housing 530 when the first door 21 is closed, and a first inclined surface 512 extending from the first contact surface 511. When the first door 21 is closed, the first inclined surface 512 is spaced apart from the front surface 531 of the second housing 530.

[0140] During the opening of the first door 21, the first contact surface 511 is separated from the front surface 531 of the second housing 530. When the first door 21 is fully open, the first inclined surface 512 can contact the front surface 531 of the second housing 530. Of course, even when the first door 21 is fully open, the first inclined surface 512 can still be separated from the front surface 531 of the second housing 530.

[0141] When the first door 21 is closed, a space S can be formed between the first inclined surface 512 and the front surface 531 of the second housing 530.

[0142] When the first door 21 is open, the space S allows the first housing 510 to rotate relative to the second housing 530 in the first direction.

[0143] The basic structure of the second housing 530 may be the same as or similar to the basic structure of the first housing 510.

[0144] As an example, the second housing 530 may include a second upper housing 540 and a second lower housing 545 coupled to the second upper housing 540.

[0145] The combination of the second upper housing 540 and the second lower housing 545 forms a channel for configuring the water pipe 72 and the wire 74. Alternatively, the second lower housing 545 can form the channel, and the second upper housing 540 can cover the channel.

[0146] With the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 housed within the second housing 530, the exposure of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 to the outside can be minimized.

[0147] The connection structure of the second upper housing 540 and the second lower housing 545 may be the same as or similar to the connection structure of the first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524.

[0148] As an example, the second upper housing 540 may include a hook 543, and the second lower housing 545 may include a guide groove 548 and a hook slot 549.

[0149] The second upper housing 540 and the second lower housing 545 may include hinge portions for engaging with hinge holes 522 of the first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524.

[0150] The hinge portion may include: hinge bodies 541 and 546 extending from the second upper housing 540 and the second lower housing 545 toward the first housing 510; and hinge pins 541a and 546a protruding from the hinge bodies 541 and 546 and penetrating the hinge hole 522.

[0151] The hinge bodies 541 and 546 can extend from the second upper housing 540 and the second lower housing 545 toward the first housing 510 along the length direction (X-axis direction). The hinge pins 541a and 546a can protrude from the hinge bodies 541 and 546 in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the hinge bodies 541 and 546 (Z-axis direction).

[0152] The protruding length of the hinge pins 541a and 546a can be greater than the thickness (Z-axis direction) of the first upper housing 520 and the first lower housing 524.

[0153] The hinge body 541 of the second upper housing 540 can be located above the first upper housing 520. The hinge pin 541a of the second upper housing 540 can protrude downward from the bottom surface of the hinge body 541. Therefore, the hinge pin 541a of the second upper housing 540 can pass through the hinge hole 522 of the first upper housing 520.

[0154] The hinge body 546 of the second lower housing 545 can be located below the first lower housing 524. The hinge pin 546a of the second lower housing 545 can protrude upward from the top surface of the hinge body 546. Therefore, the hinge pin 546a of the second lower housing 545 can pass through the hinge hole 522 of the first lower housing 524.

[0155] The outer diameter of the hinge pins 541a and 546a can be equal to or smaller than the diameter of the hinge hole 522. One or more protrusions 541b can protrude horizontally from the hinge pins 541a and 546a to minimize the possibility of the hinge pins 541a and 546a separating from the hinge hole 522 while penetrating it. When multiple protrusions 541b are provided on the hinge pins 541a and 546a, the multiple protrusions 541b can be configured symmetrically with respect to the hinge pins 541a and 546a.

[0156] The protrusion 541b, together with the hinge pins 541a and 546a, can pass through the hinge hole 522 and be inserted into the interior of the first housing 510. After the protrusion 541b and the hinge pins 541a and 546a pass through the hinge hole 522, the protrusion 541b is engaged with the inner wall of the first housing 510, thereby preventing the hinge pins 541a and 546a from easily falling off.

[0157] Conversely, the second housing 530 may also be configured such that the first housing 510 includes a hinge hole and the second housing 530 includes a hinge portion that engages with the hinge hole.

[0158] The third housing 550 can be rotatably connected to the second housing 530. As an example, the third housing 550 can be rotatably connected to the second housing 530 with reference to the second joint (or the second rotation center).

[0159] When the first door 21 is in the closed state and then opened, the second housing 530 can rotate relative to the third housing 550 only in the first direction.

[0160] As an example, the second housing 530 may include a second contact surface 532 that contacts the front surface 551 of the third housing 550 when the first door 21 is closed, and a second inclined surface 533 extending from the second contact surface 532. When the first door 21 is closed, the second inclined surface 533 is spaced apart from the front surface 551 of the third housing 550.

[0161] During the opening of the first door 21, the second contact surface 532 is separated from the front surface 551 of the third housing 550. When the first door 21 is fully open, the second inclined surface 533 can contact the front surface 551 of the third housing 550. Of course, even when the first door 21 is fully open, the second inclined surface 533 can still be separated from the front surface 551 of the third housing 550.

[0162] With the first door 21 closed, a space S can be formed between the second inclined surface 533 and the front surface 551 of the third housing 550.

[0163] When the first door 21 is open, the space S allows the second housing 530 to rotate relative to the third housing 550 in the first direction.

[0164] The basic structure of the third housing 550 may be the same as or similar to that of the second housing 530. However, the length of the third housing 550 may be greater than the lengths of the first housing 510 and the second housing 530.

[0165] If the length of the third housing 550 is greater than the lengths of the first housing 510 and the second housing 530, then the lengths of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 located outside the housing 10 will be greater than the distance the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 will move along with the first door 21 during the opening process. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 from moving on the protective guide 120 during the opening process of the first door 21.

[0166] As an example, the third housing 550 may include a third upper housing 560 and a third lower housing 565 coupled with the third upper housing 560.

[0167] The combination of the third upper housing 560 and the third lower housing 565 forms a channel for configuring the water pipe 72 and the wire 74. Alternatively, the third lower housing 565 can form the channel, and the third upper housing 560 can cover the channel.

[0168] With the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 housed within the third housing 550, the exposure of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 to the outside can be minimized.

[0169] The connection structure of the third upper shell 560 and the third lower shell 565 can be the same as or similar to the connection structure of the second upper shell 540 and the second lower shell 545.

[0170] As an example, the third upper housing 560 may include a hook 563, and the third lower housing 565 may include a guide groove 568 and a hook slot 569.

[0171] The third upper housing 560 and the third lower housing 565 may include hinge portions for engaging with hinge holes 544 of the second upper housing 540 and the second lower housing 545.

[0172] The hinge portion may include: hinge bodies 561 and 566 extending from the third upper housing 560 and the third lower housing 565 toward the second housing 530; and a hinge pin 567 protruding from the hinge bodies 561 and 566 and penetrating the hinge hole 544.

[0173] The hinge bodies 561 and 566 can extend from the third upper housing 560 and the third lower housing 565 in the length direction (X-axis direction). The hinge pin 567 can protrude from the hinge bodies 561 and 566 in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the hinge bodies 561 and 566 (Z-axis direction).

[0174] The protruding length of the hinge pin 567 can be greater than the thickness (Z-axis direction) of the second upper housing 540 and the second lower housing 545.

[0175] The hinge body 561 of the third upper housing 560 can be located above the second upper housing 540. The hinge pin 567 of the third upper housing 560 can protrude downward from the bottom surface of the hinge body 561. Therefore, the hinge pin 567 of the third upper housing 560 can pass through the hinge hole 544 of the second upper housing 540.

[0176] The hinge body 566 of the third lower housing 565 can be located below the second lower housing 545. The hinge pin 567 of the third lower housing 565 can protrude upward from the top surface of the hinge body 566. Therefore, the hinge pin 567 of the third lower housing 565 can pass through the hinge hole 544 of the second lower housing 545. The aforementioned protrusion can also be provided on the hinge pin 567.

[0177] Conversely, the third housing 550 may also be configured such that the second housing 530 includes a hinge hole and the second housing 530 includes a hinge portion that engages with the hinge hole.

[0178] The guide housing 50 may further include a guide rib 570. The housing guide 40 may include a guide groove (described later) that accommodates the guide rib 570 and guides its movement.

[0179] As an example, the guide rib 570 may be disposed in the third housing 550. The guide rib 570 may protrude horizontally from at least one side of the third housing 550. As an example, the guide rib 570 may extend from the third housing 550 along a Y-axis direction that intersects the length direction horizontally. The guide groove may guide the movement of the guide rib 570 in the length direction.

[0180] The third housing 550 may also include a lower extension 572 extending downward and a limiting rib 574 protruding from the lower extension 572 at a position spaced apart from the guide rib 570.

[0181] The limiting rib 574 can restrict the third housing 550 from moving in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) during the movement of the third housing 550 in the length direction.

[0182] With the first door 21 closed, the first to third housings 510, 530, and 550 can be configured to extend in a straight line. During the opening of the first door 21, adjacent housings among the first to third housings 510, 530, and 550 can rotate relative to each other.

[0183] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the box guide component in this embodiment. Figure 12 This is the front view of the housing guide. Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the guide housing attached to the housing guide member, viewed from the third housing side. Figure 14 This is a partial perspective view showing the state of the guide housing attached to the housing guide member.

[0184] Reference Figures 11 to 14 The housing guide 40 may include a guide body 400 that supports the guide housing 50 in a movable manner.

[0185] The guide body 400 may include a bottom wall 402 disposed on the housing 10. The guide body 400 may also include a plurality of front sidewalls 404, 406 extending upward from both sides of the bottom wall 402.

[0186] The bottom wall 402 can be formed elongated along the length direction.

[0187] The plurality of said front sidewalls 404, 406 may include a first sidewall 404 and a second sidewall 406 spaced apart from the first sidewall 404. The second sidewall 406 may be located to the left of the first sidewall 404.

[0188] The first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 can extend from the front end to the rear end of the bottom wall 402. The lengths of the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 can be less than the length of the bottom wall 402.

[0189] The guide housing 50 can be arranged in the space between the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406.

[0190] With the first door 21 closed, the distance between the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 can be greater than the left and right width (Y-axis direction) of the guide housing 50.

[0191] In this embodiment, during the rotation of the first door 21, at least a portion of the guide housing 50 can not only move linearly but also rotate horizontally.

[0192] The linear motion refers to the movement of the guide housing along one of the three axes or along one of the axes.

[0193] The movement of the guide housing in the biaxial direction can be divided into biaxial linear motion (hereinafter referred to as "linear motion") and rotational motion.

[0194] In this specification, the oblique motion refers to the situation where each of the housing components moves along the X-axis while simultaneously moving along the Y-axis. The oblique direction refers to a direction that is not perpendicular to the front of the housing.

[0195] The rotational motion refers to the situation where, when the guide housing moves along two of the three axes, the displacement in the Y-axis direction varies depending on the position of each housing. Generally, rotational motion can be defined as the situation where the housing rotates around the joint between two adjacent housings.

[0196] As an example, in this embodiment, the case of moving only along the X-axis can be called linear motion, and the case of moving along both the X-axis and Y-axis can be called oblique motion or rotational motion.

[0197] If the distance between the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 is greater than the left and right width (Y direction) of the guide housing 50, then the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 can guide not only the linear movement of the guide housing 50, but also the rotational movement.

[0198] One or more of the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 may include an inclined wall. As an example, the inclined wall may be located at least in the sidewall of the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 that is close to the hinge device 80.

[0199] The second sidewall 406 may include an inclined wall 407. As an example, when the first door 21 is closed, the inclined wall 407 may be positioned adjacent to the first door 21. Therefore, as the distance between the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 moves closer to the first door 21 from the rear side of the housing 10, the distance may initially remain constant and then increase on the side of the inclined wall 407.

[0200] If the inclined wall 407 is only provided in a predetermined portion of the second side wall 406, the distance between the remaining portion of the second side wall 406 (excluding the inclined wall 407) and the first side wall 404 can be reduced, while the rotation angle of the guide housing 50 can be increased on the inclined wall 407 side. Therefore, the overall volume of the housing guide 40 is reduced, and interference with the guide housing 50 can be prevented.

[0201] One or more of the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 may be provided with guide grooves 408 for the insertion of the guide rib 570. As an example, Figure 11 The guide groove 408 is shown to be disposed on the second sidewall 406.

[0202] The heights of the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406 may be the same or different.

[0203] The guide body 400 may also include a plurality of rear sidewalls located behind the plurality of front sidewalls 404, 406.

[0204] The plurality of rear sidewalls extend upward from the bottom wall 402, and their height may be lower than the height of the plurality of front sidewalls 404, 406. Of course, the height of the plurality of rear sidewalls may also be the same as the height of the pair of front sidewalls 404, 406.

[0205] The plurality of rear sidewalls may include a third sidewall 411 extending rearward from the first sidewall 404 and a fourth sidewall 412 extending rearward from the second sidewall 406.

[0206] One or more of the third sidewall 411 and the fourth sidewall 412 may be provided with limiting walls 413, 414. As an example, Figure 13 The diagram shows that the limiting walls 413 and 414 are respectively provided on the third sidewall 411 and the fourth sidewall 412.

[0207] The limiting walls 413 and 414 may extend horizontally from the upper ends of the third side wall 411 and the fourth side wall 412. As an example, the limiting walls 413 and 414 may extend from the third side wall 411 and the fourth side wall 412 toward each other, respectively.

[0208] The limiting walls 413 and 414 may extend long along the length of the guide body 400 via the third side wall 411 and the fourth side wall 412.

[0209] As another example, the third sidewall 411 and the first sidewall 404 may not be distinguished, and the third sidewall 411 may be a part of the first sidewall 404. Similarly, the fourth sidewall 412 and the second sidewall 406 may not be distinguished, and the fourth sidewall 412 may be a part of the second sidewall 406. In this case, the limiting walls 413 and 414 may be described as being formed on the first sidewall 404 and the second sidewall 406.

[0210] Reference Figure 13 The limiting rib 574 may be located on the lower side of the limiting walls 413 and 414. The limiting rib 574 may be located on the lower side of the limiting walls 413 and 414, spaced apart from or close to the limiting walls 413 and 414.

[0211] If the limiting rib 574 contacts the bottom surface of the limiting walls 413, 414, the upward movement of the limiting rib 574 can be restricted. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the third housing 550 from being lifted upward in the housing guide 40 when the first door 21 is opened.

[0212] The distance between a pair of limiting walls 413, 414 can be greater than the horizontal width of the guide housing 50 to prevent the sides of the guide housing 50 from rubbing against the limiting walls 413, 414.

[0213] The guide body 400 may further include one or more connecting walls 418. The connecting wall 418 may extend horizontally from the guide body 400 and may be disposed on the top surface of the housing 10. A through hole 419 for fastening members to pass through may be formed in the connecting wall 418.

[0214] The housing guide 40 may further include a guide portion 430 extending in one direction from the guide body 400.

[0215] The guide portion 430 can guide the water pipe 72 extending from the housing 10 toward the guide housing 50. The guide portion 430 can be located behind the hinge device 80.

[0216] A portion of the hinge device 80 may be located between the guide portion 430 and the first door 21.

[0217] The guide portion 430 may include an extension wall 431 extending horizontally from the guide body 400. The extension wall 431 may extend from a position in the guide body 400 adjacent to the second sidewall 406.

[0218] The extension wall 431 may include an opening 432 through which the water pipe 72 passes. The water pipe 72 extending from the housing 10 may pass through the opening 432.

[0219] The guide portion 430 may include a support wall 434 supporting the water pipe 72 that passes through the opening 432. The support wall 434 may extend from the extension wall 431 in a direction away from the first door 21.

[0220] As an example, the support wall 434 may extend rearward at a position adjacent to the opening 432 of the extension wall 431.

[0221] In this case, the extension wall 431 may not include the opening 432. In this situation, the water pipe 72 extending from the housing 10 can be directly supported by the support wall 434.

[0222] The support wall 434 may increase in height as it moves away from the opening 432 rearward. The support wall 434 may protrude downward in an arc shape based on a vertical cross-section cut along the Y-axis, so that the support wall 434 can stably support the water pipe 72.

[0223] The guide portion 430 may also include a connecting wall 435 that connects the extension wall 431 and the support wall 434.

[0224] The housing guide 40 may further include a first cover member 460, which covers the water pipe 72 and engages with the guide portion 430 to maintain the water pipe 72 in a position on the support wall 434.

[0225] The first cover member 460 may include an arcuate portion 462 covering the water pipe 72 and a connecting portion 464 disposed on both sides of the arcuate portion 462.

[0226] The arcuate portion 462 can be formed in an arcuate shape, with the water pipe 72 as a reference, in a direction opposite to the arcuate direction of the support wall 434. Therefore, the water pipe 72 can be located between the support wall 434 and the arcuate portion 462. The support wall 434 can be provided with a first fastening extension 433, which is fastened to the joint portion 464 by a fastening member.

[0227] The housing guide 40 may further include a second cover member 470, which covers the water pipe 72 and engages with the guide portion 430 to maintain the water pipe 72 in a position positioned on the support wall 434. The second cover member 470 may engage with the guide portion 430 at a position spaced apart from the first cover member 460 along the length direction.

[0228] The structure of the second cover member 470 may be the same as that of the first cover member 460. As an example, the second cover member 470 may include an arcuate portion 472 and a pair of connecting portions 474.

[0229] A second fastening extension 436 may be provided in the connecting wall 435 or the supporting wall 434 adjacent to the extension wall 435, which is fastened to the joint 474 by means of a fastening member.

[0230] The housing guide 40 may further include a fixing wall 440 for fixing the position of the wire 74. The fixing wall 440 may be located on the opposite side of the guide portion 430 with reference to the guide body 400. The fixing wall 440 may extend horizontally from the guide body 400.

[0231] The fixed wall 440 may be provided with a connecting member 450 for connecting cable ties.

[0232] The fixed wall 440 has not only a plurality of holes 442 along the X-axis direction, but also a plurality of holes 442 along the Y-axis direction. The connecting member 450 can be fastened to a first hole in the holes 442 arranged along the Y-axis direction and a second hole spaced apart from the first hole along the X-axis direction by a fastening member.

[0233] Therefore, the position of the connecting member 450 in the fixed wall 440 can be changed.

[0234] The connecting member 450 may include a plurality of fastening holes 454. The connecting member 450 may also include one or more slots 452 for engaging the cable strap. The cable strap may pass through the slots 452 to engage and surround the connecting member 450 and the wire 74.

[0235] If the wire 74 is arranged between the guide body 400 and the connecting member 450, and the wire 74 and the connecting member 450 are connected by the cable harness, the position of the wire 74 can be fixed.

[0236] Figure 15 This is a top view showing the first door of the present invention open at its maximum angle. Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the first door of the present invention open at its maximum angle.

[0237] Reference Figures 3 to 16 The first door 21 is provided with the aforementioned door opening, and the first housing 510 is rotatably connected to the first door 21 on the upper side of the door opening via the door fixing part 90.

[0238] At this time, the center of the door opening may be the same as or different from the rotation center of the first housing 510. The rotation center C2 of the first housing 510 may pass through the door opening.

[0239] The first door 21 can be rotated in a first direction (clockwise in the figure) to open the first door 21.

[0240] During the opening of the first door 21, the third housing 550 can be guided by the housing guide 40 and moved toward the first door 21.

[0241] The third housing 550 can move in a straight line towards the first door 21 and then move in an oblique line or rotate.

[0242] In this embodiment, the rotation angle refers to the angle at which each of the housings rotates in the first direction.

[0243] In addition, the increase in the rotation angle of each shell refers to the situation where the movement distance in the X-axis direction decreases while the movement distance in the Y-axis direction increases.

[0244] During the opening of the first door 21, the second housing 530 can move toward the first door 21.

[0245] As an example, the second housing 530 may move in a straight line towards the first door 21 and then move in an oblique direction or rotate. Alternatively, the second housing 530 may move in an oblique direction towards the first door 21 and then rotate.

[0246] During the opening of the first door 21, the first housing 510 can move toward the direction of the first door 21.

[0247] As one example, the first housing 510 can move in a straight line towards the first door 21 and then move diagonally or rotate. As another example, the first housing 510 can move diagonally towards the first door 21 and then rotate.

[0248] During the opening of the first door 21, the first housing 510 can rotate relative to the first door 21. Additionally, the first housing 510 can rotate relative to the second housing 530. Furthermore, the second housing 530 can rotate relative to the third housing 550.

[0249] During the opening of the first door 21, the angle formed by the front of the first housing 510 and the first door 21 can be increased.

[0250] With the first door 21 open at its maximum angle, the entire first housing 510 can be extended to the outside of the housing guide 40. Additionally, the second housing 530 can be extended to the outside of the housing guide 40.

[0251] With the first door 21 open at its maximum angle, the second housing 530 is located to the side of the hinge device 80.

[0252] In this case, the second housing 530 not only does not interfere with the hinge device 80, but also minimizes the exposure of the hinge device 80 to the user because the second housing 530 covers the side of the hinge device 80.

[0253] When the first door 21 is opened from the closed state to the maximum angle, the rotation angle of the first housing 510 relative to the second housing 530 is greater than the rotation angle of the second housing 530 relative to the third housing 550.

[0254] In this embodiment, during the opening of the first door 21, a portion of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 bends. However, since not only do the first housing 510 and the second housing 530 rotate relative to each other, but the second housing 530 also rotates relative to the third housing 550, the radius of curvature of the water pipe 72 and the wire 74 at the bent portion becomes larger, thus having the advantage of reducing the amount of bending.

[0255] In this specification, pipes and wires for supplying liquid (for example, water) flow may be collectively referred to as extension members. The extension members may extend from the housing into the interior of the refrigerator door, or from the refrigerator door into the interior of the housing.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, wherein, include: The box contains storage space; The refrigerator door is rotatably connected to the cabinet via a hinge mechanism, allowing the storage space to be opened and closed. An extension member, extending from the housing and connected to the interior of the refrigerator door through a door opening spaced apart from the rotation center of the refrigerator door, includes one or more of a pipe and a wire for liquid flow. A guide housing guides the extension member located on the outside of the housing and the refrigerator door; as well as A cabinet guide, fixed to the cabinet, guides the linear and rotational movement of the guide housing during the opening and closing of the refrigerator door; The housing guide includes a bottom wall fixed to the housing and a first side wall and a second side wall extending upward from both sides of the bottom wall. The second sidewall includes an inclined wall that slopes away from the first sidewall.

2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The guide housing is located between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, One or more of the first sidewall and the second sidewall are provided with guide grooves extending in the length direction of the housing guide. The guide housing is provided with guide ribs that are accommodated in the guide groove.

4. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The distance between the first sidewall and the second sidewall is greater than the left and right width of the guide housing.

5. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The second sidewall is located closer to the hinge device than the first sidewall.

6. The refrigerator according to claim 5, wherein, The inclined wall is located in the portion of the second side wall adjacent to the refrigerator door.

7. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein, The housing guide includes a third sidewall extending rearward from the first sidewall and a fourth sidewall extending rearward from the second sidewall. The upper ends of the third and fourth sidewalls are lower than the upper ends of the first and second sidewalls.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, wherein, One or more of the third and fourth sidewalls are provided with limiting walls that protrude toward the opposite sidewall direction. The guide housing includes a limiting rib that protrudes horizontally from the guide housing and is located on the lower side of the limiting wall.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, wherein, A limiting wall is provided on the first sidewall and the second sidewall respectively. The distance between the limiting walls is formed to be greater than the left and right width of the guide housing.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The housing guide also includes a guide portion that extends in one direction and guides the tube toward the guide housing side.

11. The refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein, The guide section includes: Extending wall, extending horizontally; and A support wall extends from the extension wall in a direction away from the refrigerator door and supports the tube.

12. The refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein, An opening is provided in the extension wall for the tube to pass through.

13. The refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein, The height of the support wall increases as it moves away from the refrigerator door.

14. The refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein, The vertical cross-section of the support wall protrudes downwards in an arc shape.

15. The refrigerator according to claim 11, wherein, It also includes one or more cover members that are combined with the guide to surround the tube disposed on the support wall.

16. The refrigerator according to claim 10, wherein, The housing guide includes a fixing wall for securing the wire and a connecting member that engages with the fixing wall. With the conductor positioned between the connecting member and one side wall of the housing guide, the conductor is connected to the connecting member using a cable harness.

17. The refrigerator according to claim 16, wherein, The fixed wall is located on the opposite side of the guide portion in the housing guide.

18. The refrigerator according to claim 16, wherein, The fixed wall has a plurality of holes along a first direction and a plurality of holes along a direction intersecting the first direction.

19. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, The housing guide also includes one or more connecting walls that extend horizontally and are disposed on the top surface of the housing.

20. The refrigerator according to claim 19, wherein, One or more of the aforementioned connecting walls have through holes for fastening members to pass through.

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