Door assembly and refrigerator
By incorporating a light source and a lever mechanism on the refrigerator door, the problem of finding the hidden handle quickly has been solved, resulting in a beautiful and convenient handle user experience.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- MIDEA GRP (SHANGHAI) CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-05-23
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-12
AI Technical Summary
Existing refrigerator door handle designs affect the aesthetics of the appearance, take up space, and are prone to getting dirty. Concealed handles make it difficult to quickly locate the handle groove.
A light source and a lever mechanism are installed on the refrigerator door. The light source illuminates the handle groove, and the lever moves the panel between hidden and revealed states. A guide component ensures smooth movement.
It improves the user experience, makes it easy and quick to find the handle slot, keeps the refrigerator's appearance neat and beautiful, and reduces space occupation.
Smart Images

Figure CN117145303B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and particularly to door components and refrigerators. Background Technology
[0002] To facilitate opening refrigerators, handles are typically installed on the door. These handles are usually visible and fixed. Poor fit between the handle and the door can easily affect the overall aesthetics of the refrigerator. Furthermore, handles occupy space on the door surface and are prone to accumulating dust and debris, requiring frequent cleaning. To address these issues, a concealed handle design has been developed. This design involves a groove and a handle slot on the door, connected to each other. The handle panel is positioned within the groove and connected to its bottom wall by a spring, pressing the handle panel against the groove's opening. A protrusion at the groove's opening provides a limiting feature. When in use, the handle panel is pressed against the bottom wall of the groove, exposing it and allowing the user to easily reach the handle slot to open the door. However, during use, the handle slot is not visible to the user, making it difficult to quickly locate. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention proposes a door assembly capable of indicating the position of the handle groove.
[0004] The present invention also proposes a refrigerator having the above-described door assembly.
[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a door assembly includes: a housing, a fixed bracket, a panel, a light source, and a rocker arm. The housing has an opening, a handle groove, and a movable groove, the handle groove and the movable groove communicating with each other, and the opening and the movable groove communicating with each other. The fixed bracket is connected to the inner side of the housing. The panel is located in the movable groove. The light source is used to illuminate the handle groove. One end of the rocker arm is rotatably connected to the fixed bracket, and the other end is connected to the panel, so that the panel can extend and retract along the axial direction of the opening. The panel has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the outer surface of the panel is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the housing. In the second state, the panel is retracted into the housing.
[0006] The door assembly according to embodiments of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: by providing a light source, the light source can be turned on when the user pushes open the panel, thereby illuminating the area where the handle groove is located, indicating the position of the handle groove, facilitating user use, and improving user experience.
[0007] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the light source is disposed on the inner wall of the handle groove and located on the side of the handle groove away from the movable groove.
[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outer surface of the light source is flush with the inner wall surface of the handle groove.
[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outer shell is made of a light-transmitting material.
[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the door assembly further includes a guide assembly connected to the panel to guide the panel to move axially and telescopically along the opening.
[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the guide assembly includes a sliding shaft, both ends of which are fixedly connected to the fixed bracket, the panel is slidably connected to the sliding shaft, and the lever is rotatably connected to the panel.
[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, one end of the lever is provided with a guide boss, and the panel is provided with a guide waist-shaped hole or guide waist-shaped groove that mates with the guide boss.
[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the panel is provided with a guide boss, and one end of the lever is provided with a guide waist-shaped hole or guide waist-shaped groove that cooperates with the guide boss.
[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the door assembly further includes a drive device that drives the lever to rotate.
[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the lever is connected to the fixed bracket via a rotating shaft, the driving device includes a motor, and the output shaft of the motor is connected to the rotating shaft via a rotating shaft connecting sleeve.
[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the lever is connected to the fixed bracket via a rotating shaft, the driving device includes a motor, the output shaft of the motor is connected to a driving gear, the rotating shaft is connected to a driven gear, and the driving gear meshes with the driven gear.
[0017] A refrigerator according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention includes a door assembly according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] The refrigerator according to the embodiments of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: by adopting the door assembly of the first aspect embodiment of the present invention, a light source is provided, which can be turned on when the user pushes open the panel, thereby illuminating the area where the handle groove is located, indicating the position of the handle groove, facilitating user use, and improving user experience.
[0019] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description
[0020] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, wherein:
[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the refrigerator of the present invention;
[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the refrigerator of the present invention;
[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the refrigerator of the present invention;
[0024] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A front view of one embodiment of the door assembly is shown (door body omitted);
[0025] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A perspective view of the door assembly is shown;
[0026] Figure 6 for Figure 4 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its initial state.
[0027] Figure 7 for Figure 4 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in an intermediate state.
[0028] Figure 8 for Figure 4 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its completed state.
[0029] Figure 9 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the door assembly is shown (door body omitted);
[0030] Figure 10 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the door assembly is shown (door body omitted);
[0031] Figure 11 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the connection of the panel and lever in one embodiment is provided.
[0032] Figure 12 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the connection of another embodiment of the panel and lever;
[0033] Figure 13 for Figure 1A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the door assembly is shown (door body omitted);
[0034] Figure 14 for Figure 13 An exploded view of the door assembly is shown.
[0035] Figure 15 for Figure 13 A schematic diagram showing another state of the door assembly;
[0036] Figure 16 for Figure 13 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its initial state.
[0037] Figure 17 for Figure 13 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in an intermediate state.
[0038] Figure 18 for Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the door assembly is shown;
[0039] Figure 19 for Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the door assembly is shown;
[0040] Figure 20 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the door assembly is shown (door body omitted);
[0041] Figure 21 for Figure 17 A schematic diagram showing the addition of a detection component to the door assembly is shown;
[0042] Figure 22 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the door assembly is shown (door body omitted);
[0043] Figure 23 for Figure 22 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its initial state.
[0044] Figure 24 for Figure 22 The diagram shown illustrates a compression spring in a critical state.
[0045] Figure 25 for Figure 22 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in an intermediate state.
[0046] Figure 26 for Figure 22 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its completed state.
[0047] Figure 27 for Figure 22 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the door assembly is shown;
[0048] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of a door assembly in its initial state according to another embodiment;
[0049] Figure 29 for Figure 28 The diagram shown illustrates a gate assembly in a critical state.
[0050] Figure 30 for Figure 28 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its completed state.
[0051] Figure 31 This is a schematic diagram of a door assembly in its initial state according to another embodiment;
[0052] Figure 32 for Figure 31 The diagram shown illustrates a gate assembly in a critical state.
[0053] Figure 33 for Figure 31 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in an intermediate state.
[0054] Figure 34 for Figure 31 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its completed state.
[0055] Figure 35 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the door assembly is shown (door body omitted);
[0056] Figure 36 for Figure 35 A schematic diagram of the clutch mechanism is shown;
[0057] Figure 37 for Figure 35 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its initial state.
[0058] Figure 38 for Figure 35 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in an intermediate state.
[0059] Figure 39 for Figure 35 The diagram shown illustrates the completed state of the door assembly in a manually pushed scenario;
[0060] Figure 40 for Figure 35 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its completed state under electric control.
[0061] Figure 41 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the door assembly in its initial state according to another embodiment is shown;
[0062] Figure 42 for Figure 41 The diagram shown illustrates the door assembly in its completed state.
[0063] Figure 43 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the door assembly is shown (door body omitted);
[0064] Figure 44 for Figure 43 A schematic diagram of the door assembly from another angle is shown;
[0065] Figure 45 for Figure 43 The schematic diagram shown omits the fixing bracket from the door assembly;
[0066] Figure 46 for Figure 44 A partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the opener / closer is shown;
[0067] Figure 47 for Figure 43 A schematic diagram showing a door assembly (with a door body) in its initial state;
[0068] Figure 48 for Figure 46 The AA section view shown is in Figure 47 A diagram illustrating the state;
[0069] Figure 49 for Figure 46 The BB cross-sectional view shown is in Figure 47 A diagram illustrating the state;
[0070] Figure 50 for Figure 43 The diagram shown illustrates a door assembly (with a door body) in an intermediate state.
[0071] Figure 51 for Figure 46 The AA section view shown is in Figure 50 A diagram illustrating the state;
[0072] Figure 52 for Figure 46 The BB cross-sectional view shown is in Figure 50 A diagram illustrating the state;
[0073] Figure 53 for Figure 43 The diagram shown illustrates a door assembly (with a door body) in a completed state.
[0074] Figure 54 for Figure 46 The AA section view shown is in Figure 53 A diagram illustrating the state;
[0075] Figure 55 for Figure 46 The BB cross-sectional view shown is in Figure 53 A diagram illustrating the state;
[0076] Figure 56 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the opener / closer shown for reference 43;
[0077] Figure 57 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the opener / closer shown for reference 43;
[0078] Figure 58 This is a flowchart of one embodiment of the control method for a door component according to the present invention;
[0079] Figure 59 A flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the control method for a door assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0080] Figure 60 A flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the control method for a door assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0081] Figure 61 A flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the control method for a door assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0082] Figure 62 A flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the control method for a door assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0083] Figure 63 A flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the control method for a door assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0084] Figure 64 This is a flowchart of another embodiment of the control method for a door component according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0085] Figure label:
[0086] 101. Door body; 102. Panel;
[0087] 301. Drawer;
[0088] 401. Fixed bracket; 402. Lever;
[0089] 501. Sliding shaft; 502. Baffle part; 503. Third connecting part;
[0090] 601, Limit Block;
[0091] 901. Motor; 902. Driving gear; 903. Rotating shaft; 904. Driven gear;
[0092] 1001. Rotary shaft connecting sleeve;
[0093] 1101. Guide boss; 1102. Guide slotted hole;
[0094] 1301, rocker arm; 1302, guide groove;
[0095] 1401, slider; 1402, pin; 1403, return spring;
[0096] 2001. Magnet; 2002. Hall effect sensor;
[0097] 2101. First compression spring; 2102. First mounting part; 2103. Second mounting part;
[0098] 2201, Indicator line; 2202, Center line; 2203, Center of rotation;
[0099] 2601, First tension spring;
[0100] 3001, First Torsion Spring;
[0101] 3401. Clutch mechanism;
[0102] 3501, convex part; 3502, concave part; 3503, rotation clearance;
[0103] 4001, Handle groove; 4002, Opening; 4003, Handle latch groove; 4004, Movable groove; 4005, Light source;
[0104] 4201. Grip part; 4202. First connecting part;
[0105] 4301. Back cover; 4302. Opener / closer;
[0106] 4401, Second connecting part;
[0107] 4501, push rod; 4502, housing; 4503, slide plate; 4504, second compression spring; 4505, guide groove;
[0108] 4701, Rotating part; 4702, Limiting groove; 4703, Limiting part;
[0109] 4801, Sliding part; 4802, First stop position; 4803, Second stop position;
[0110] 5401, Guiding slope;
[0111] 5501, Second tension spring;
[0112] 5601, Second torsion spring. Detailed Implementation
[0113] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.
[0114] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.
[0115] In the description of this invention, "several" means one or more, "more than" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. The use of "first" and "second" in the description is merely for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.
[0116] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly defined, terms such as "setting," "installing," and "connecting" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention in conjunction with the specific content of the technical solution.
[0117] Reference Figure 1 It is understood that the refrigerator in this embodiment of the invention can be a single-door refrigerator, including a door 101. The door 101 includes an outer shell (not shown in the figure) and an inner liner (not shown in the figure). The outer side of the outer shell is provided with a handle groove 4001 (see reference). Figure 41 The door housing has a handle groove 4001 on the user-facing side. The handle groove 4001 has an opening 4002, and a panel 102 is located at the opening 4002. The panel 102 is movable relative to the opening 4002, allowing it to be either hidden or opened. The door body 101 and the panel 102 form part of the door assembly. The cooperation between the panel 102 and the handle groove 4001 forms a handle structure, enabling the switching between a usable and hidden state.
[0118] Reference Figure 2It is understood that the refrigerator in this embodiment of the invention can also be a double-door refrigerator, including two doors 101. Each door 101 has a handle groove 4001 on its outer shell and a panel 102 at the opening 4002 of the handle groove 4001, thereby forming a handle structure on each door, which can realize the switching between the use state and the hidden state of the handle structure.
[0119] It should be noted that in a double-door refrigerator, only one door may use the door component structure of this invention, while the other door may use other types of handle structures, which is not limited here.
[0120] Reference Figure 3 It is understood that the refrigerator in this embodiment of the invention can also be a multi-door refrigerator, that is, it has a door 101 and a drawer 301. Opening the door 101 or the drawer 301 can realize the function of opening the door. The outer shell of the door 101 and the drawer 301 are provided with handle grooves 4001, and the openings 4002 of the handle grooves 4001 are provided with panels 102, thereby forming a handle structure in the door 101 and the drawer 301, which can realize the switching between the use state and the hidden state of the handle structure.
[0121] It should be noted that the door component structure of this embodiment may be used only in drawer 301, while other types of handle structures may be used in door body 101, which is not limited here.
[0122] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention also includes a fixed bracket 401 and a lever 402. The fixed bracket 401 is connected to the inner side of the handle groove 4001, and the panel 102 is connected to the fixed bracket 401 via the lever 402. Specifically, one end of the lever 402 is rotatably connected to the fixed bracket 401, and the panel 102 is connected to the other end of the lever 402. This design allows the panel 102 to swing around the hinge point between the lever 402 and the fixed bracket 401, thereby enabling the panel 102 to extend and retract along the axial direction of the opening 4002. In other words, the panel 102 has two states, defined as a first state and a second state. In the first state, the outer surface of the panel 102 is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the outer shell. At this time, the panel 102 is in a hidden state, and the outer surface of the panel 102 and the outer surface of the outer shell appear to be a single unit without obvious protrusions or depressions, making the refrigerator look neat and aesthetically pleasing. In the second state, panel 102 can retract into handle groove 4001, exposing handle groove 4001, allowing the user to reach into handle groove 4001 to pull door 101 or drawer 301 to open the refrigerator. In the second state, panel 102 can also extend beyond handle groove 4001, allowing the user to grip the panel 102 protruding from opening 4002 and pull door 101 or drawer 301 to open the refrigerator. Using lever 402 to operate the panel utilizes the space along the length of the refrigerator door, reducing the space occupied in the thickness direction and improving space utilization.
[0123] It can be understood that the axial direction of opening 4002 refers to the direction perpendicular to the outer shell plane where opening 4002 is located, including directions approximately perpendicular to the outer shell plane where opening 4002 is located. Figure 6 The front-to-back direction is shown. In other words, the movement of panel 102 along the axial direction of opening 4002 is a translational movement of the whole, rather than a flipping movement.
[0124] It should be noted that, in one embodiment, in the first state, the panel 102 is at its lowest point of natural swing, that is, the panel 102 is directly below the hinge point of the lever 402 and the fixed bracket 401, and the lever 402 is in a naturally drooping state. Correspondingly, in the second state, the panel 102 swings upward. In this way, the panel 102 can automatically return to the hidden state after being moved by the user. In another embodiment, in the second state, the panel 102 is at its lowest point of natural swing, corresponding to the first state where the panel 102 swings upward. At this time, a retaining structure can be provided at the edge of the opening 4002 so that the panel 102 can be kept in the hidden state. For example, a magnetic structure can be provided to attract the panel 102 to the opening 4002; or a damping structure can be provided at the hinge point of the lever 402 and the fixed bracket 401 so that when the panel 102 rotates to the opening 4002, it receives a damping force and is not easily detached from the opening 4002.
[0125] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention also includes a sliding shaft 501, with both ends of the sliding shaft 501 fixedly connected to the fixed bracket 401. The panel 102 is slidably connected to the sliding shaft 501, and the lever 402 is rotatably connected to the panel 102. By setting the sliding shaft 501, the panel 102 can move along a predetermined trajectory, making the movement more stable and the switching between the first and second states smoother. At the same time, it also allows the panel 102 to be conveniently stopped at any position on the sliding shaft 501.
[0126] It should be noted that the sliding shaft 501 can also be replaced by guide components such as slide rails and slide grooves. These guide components are connected to the panel 102 to guide the panel 102 to move telescopically along the axial direction of the opening 4002.
[0127] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6It is understood that there are two levers 402. The two levers 402 are connected to the fixed bracket 401 via the rotating shaft 903 and are also connected to both ends of the panel 102, making the panel 102 more balanced in terms of force and less prone to tilting during the back-and-forth swinging of the panel 102. In addition, the panel 102 includes a baffle portion 502 and two third connecting portions 503. The baffle portion 502 is arranged along the axis parallel to the rotating shaft 903 and is used to close the opening 4002. The two third connecting portions 503 are spaced apart and connected to one side of the baffle portion 502 and are arranged along the axis perpendicular to the rotating shaft 903. One lever 402 is connected to one third connecting portion 503, that is, the lever 402 is connected to the baffle portion 502 through the third connecting portion 503. Thus, in the first state, the lever 402 drives the baffle portion 502 to move to the opening 4002 through the third connecting portion 503, so that the outer surface of the baffle portion 502 is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the outer shell; in the second state, the lever 402 drives the baffle portion 502 to move into the handle groove 4001 through the third connecting portion 503, so that the baffle portion 502 retracts into the outer shell.
[0128] It should be noted that the third connecting part 503 can also have an inclined angle with the axis of the rotating shaft 903, that is, it is not perpendicular. It can be set in the direction away from the back of the baffle part 502, that is, in the rearward direction.
[0129] It is understandable that the third connecting part 503 and the baffle part 502 are misaligned in the front-back direction and are not located on the same plane, so that the third connecting part 503 can be located in the handle groove 4001, reducing the possibility of interference between the panel 102 and the fixed bracket 401 during movement.
[0130] Reference Figures 6 to 8 It is understandable that during the transition of panel 102 from the hidden state to the used state, panel 102 undergoes three state changes: initial state, intermediate state, and completed state. Two limiting blocks 601 are provided on the fixed bracket 401, located at both ends of the sliding shaft 501 respectively. The limiting blocks 601 can restrict the swing of the lever 402 and limit the initial state and completed state of panel 102.
[0131] Reference Figure 6 It is understandable that panel 102 is in its initial state, that is, in the first state, and the user is in front of panel 102.
[0132] Reference Figure 7 It is understandable that when panel 102 is in the middle state, the user pushes panel 102 to move it backward, causing the outer casing to begin to reveal the handle groove 4001.
[0133] Reference Figure 8Understandably, when panel 102 is in its completed state, panel 102 is moved to its rearmost position, fully exposing handle groove 4001. At this time, the user can reach into handle groove 4001 to pull door 101 or drawer 301 to open the refrigerator.
[0134] It should be noted that the second state mentioned above can refer to the intermediate state and the completed state.
[0135] Reference Figure 9 In one embodiment, the door assembly of this invention further includes a motor 901, which is fixed on a fixed base frame. One or more motors 901 can be used. A drive gear 902 is fixedly connected to the output shaft of the motor 901. A lever 402 is connected to a fixed bracket 401 via a rotating shaft 903. A driven gear 904 is connected to the rotating shaft 903, and the drive gear 902 and driven gear 904 mesh with each other. One end of the lever 402 is fixed to the rotating shaft 903. The lever 402 and the rotating shaft 903 have no relative movement, while the rotating shaft 903 is rotatably connected to the fixed bracket 401, causing the lever 402 and the rotating shaft 903 to swing back and forth around the axis of the rotating shaft 903. When the motor 901 rotates, the drive gear 902, the driven gear, the rotating shaft 903, and the lever 402 drive the panel 102 to swing back and forth, i.e., to extend and retract along the axial direction of the opening 4002.
[0136] Reference Figure 10 In another embodiment, the door assembly of this invention further includes a motor 901, which is fixed on a fixed base frame. One or more motors 901 can be used. A lever 402 is connected to a fixed bracket 401 via a rotating shaft 903. The output shaft of the motor 901 and the rotating shaft 903 are connected via a rotating shaft connecting sleeve 1001 to achieve rotational transmission. One end of the lever 402 is fixed to the rotating shaft 903. The lever 402 and the rotating shaft 903 have no relative movement, while the rotating shaft 903 is rotatably connected to the fixed bracket 401, causing the lever 402 and the rotating shaft 903 to swing back and forth around the axis of the rotating shaft 903. When the motor 901 rotates, the panel 102 swings back and forth, i.e., it moves telescopically along the axial direction of the opening 4002, through the transmission of the rotating shaft connecting sleeve 1001, the rotating shaft 903, and the lever 402.
[0137] By reference Figure 9 and Figure 10This design incorporates a drive mechanism that rotates the lever 402 to open and close the door 101, making operation convenient. Additionally, it can be used in conjunction with sensors to achieve human-machine interaction, enhancing the product's technological appeal and addressing the need for a more youthful, intelligent, and aesthetically pleasing door handle for the refrigerator. For example, without requiring manual contact with the panel 102, when a person approaches the door 101, the sensor detects the target signal, controlling the motor 901 to rotate, thus bringing the panel 102 to a ready state and revealing the handle groove 4001.
[0138] It should be noted that, in addition to, other methods can also be used. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The drive device, in addition to the one that drives the lever 402 to rotate.
[0139] Reference Figure 11 It is understandable that one end of the lever 402 is provided with a guide boss 1101, and the panel 102 is provided with a guide slot 1102. The guide slot 1102 is arranged in the vertical direction, and the guide slot 1102 or the guide slot groove 1302 cooperates with the guide boss 1101, so that the guide boss 1101 can move relative to the guide slot 1102 in the vertical direction during the back-and-forth swing of the panel 102. In particular, in conjunction with the sliding shaft 501, it can better keep the panel 102 moving in the horizontal direction, rather than moving in the opposite direction, making the panel 102 slide more smoothly, and reducing the space required for the panel 102 in the vertical direction, that is, reducing the height of the handle groove 4001 in the vertical direction, making the structure more compact.
[0140] Reference Figure 12 It is understandable that the panel 102 can also be configured such that a guide boss 1101 is provided on the panel 102, and one end of the lever 402 is provided with a guide slot 1102 that mates with the guide boss 1101. That is, Figure 12 The plan and Figure 11 Compared to the previous scheme, the positions of the guide boss 1101 and the guide waist-shaped hole 1102 were interchanged.
[0141] Reference Figures 13 to 15 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention can also be configured to include a housing (not shown in the figure), a panel 102, a sliding shaft 501, and a rocker arm 1301. The housing is provided with a handle groove 4001, which has an opening 4002. The panel 102 is disposed at the opening 4002, and the panel 102 is guided by the sliding shaft 501 to move axially along the opening 4002. One end of the rocker arm 1301 is connected to the panel 102, and the other end of the rocker arm 1301 abuts against the housing to provide a reaction force to push the panel 102 to move.
[0142] Reference Figure 16It is understandable that, in its initial state, panel 102 has its side close to the outer casing, i.e., close to the inner wall of handle groove 4001. When the user pushes panel 102 from the front, since the point of force applied by the user is far from the position of sliding shaft 501, if panel 102 gets stuck and cannot move smoothly along the axial direction of sliding shaft 501, the end of panel 102 closer to sliding shaft 501 tends to stay in its original position, while the end of panel 102 farther from sliding shaft 501 tends to move towards the rear of panel 102, causing panel 102 to tilt. See [link to details] for further information. Figure 17 As shown. In Figure 17 In the shown state, one end of the rocker arm 1301 abuts against the outer casing, that is, against the inner wall of the handle groove 4001. The end of the rocker arm 1301 that abuts against the outer casing initially remains stationary, providing a force to push the panel 102 to move axially along the sliding shaft 501, so that the end of the panel 102 near the sliding shaft 501 can also move, that is, to move the entire panel 102 backward to expose the handle groove 4001. The user can reach into the handle groove 4001 to pull the door 101 or drawer 301 to open the refrigerator.
[0143] Understandably, a sliding hole can be provided on the panel 102 or the rocker arm 1301 for the sliding shaft 501 to pass through. The diameter of the sliding hole can be slightly larger than the diameter of the sliding shaft 501, allowing the panel 102 to tilt. Alternatively, the sliding shaft 501 can be replaced by a groove, with a protrusion provided on the panel 102 or the rocker arm 1301. The protrusion slides along the groove, causing the panel 102 to move. The protrusion can be a round shaft, or the width of the groove can be greater than the height of the protrusion, allowing the panel 102 to tilt.
[0144] Reference Figure 14 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention also includes a slider 1401, which is slidably connected to a sliding shaft 501. A rocker arm 1301 is rotatably connected to the slider 1401. This allows the slider 1401 to slide along the sliding shaft 501, thereby moving the panel 102 without affecting the rocker arm 1301's rotational contact with the outer casing to generate a force that pushes the panel 102 along the axial direction of the sliding shaft 501. Specifically, a pin 1402 is provided on the rocker arm 1301, and a pin hole (not shown in the figure) is provided on the slider 1401. The pin 1402 passes through the pin hole, allowing the rocker arm 1301 to rotate around the slider 1401. The side of the rocker arm 1301 is connected to the panel 102 by screws for easy assembly.
[0145] Reference Figure 14It is understandable that a return spring 1403 is provided between the slider 1401 and the rocker arm 1301. One end of the return spring 1403 abuts against the slider 1401 and the other end abuts against the rocker arm 1301. When the rocker arm 1301 and the panel 102 tilt, and the panel 102 is released by hand, the return spring 1403 can reset the panel 102 and restore it to a vertical state.
[0146] Reference Figure 15 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 As can be understood, when a user pushes panel 102 from the front, the panel 102 receives the user's pushing force and transmits it to the rocker arm 1301. The rocker arm 1301 tilts up near the point of application of force, causing it to tilt, while the slider 1401 remains stationary or moves slightly. After tilting, one end of the rocker arm 1301 abuts against the outer casing, providing a backward force. This backward force pushes the slider 1401 backward, thereby moving panel 102 backward. The entire process utilizes the lever principle to push panel 102, which is more labor-saving and makes manual pushing more convenient.
[0147] Understandably, the door assembly also includes a drive mechanism that drives the slider 1401 to slide, thereby moving the panel 102 and switching the handle groove 4001 between its active and concealed states. The door assembly also includes a detection device that detects user signals. Upon detecting a user signal, the detection device controls the drive mechanism to activate. Detection trigger signals include one of the following: gesture, voice, touch, or mechanical button. The cooperation between the detection device and the drive mechanism achieves human-machine interaction, enhancing the product's technological appeal. In the event of a power outage, the panel 102 can be moved using the rocker arm 1301, overcoming the resistance of the drive mechanism and requiring less effort.
[0148] Reference Figure 20 It is understandable that, with Figure 19 Compared to the embodiments shown, Figure 20 The embodiment mainly changes the relative positions of the pin 1402 and the return spring 1403 with respect to the sliding shaft 501. Specifically, as shown... Figure 19 As shown, pin 1402 is located below sliding shaft 501, and return spring 1403 is located above sliding shaft 501. Figure 20 As shown, pin 1402 is located above sliding shaft 501, and return spring 1403 is located below sliding shaft 501. Pin 1402 serves as the fulcrum for the rocker arm 1301 to rotate around slider 1401. By changing the position of the fulcrum, the force relationship in the lever structure is altered, thereby adjusting the magnitude of the force that causes the rocker arm 1301 to bend after pushing panel 102. Figure 19 Compared to the embodiments shown, Figure 20In this embodiment, the pin 1402 is positioned further away from the point of force application of the push panel 102, allowing the user to push the panel 102 with less force.
[0149] It should be noted that in some other embodiments, the pin 1402 and the return spring 1403 may also be located on the same side of the sliding shaft 501, which is not specifically limited here.
[0150] Reference Figure 21 It is understandable that in certain specific scenarios, if a person's hand is not fully withdrawn, the drive device will drive the panel 102 to return to its original state, i.e., the goal is to return the panel 102 from the completed state to the initial state. If a person's hand is trapped between the panel 102 and the outer casing, the panel 102 will be forced to lift the rocker arm 1301 at a certain angle α to prevent injury to the user.
[0151] Reference Figure 21 It is understood that a magnet 2001 is provided on the lower end face of the slider 1401, and a Hall sensor 2002 is provided on the upper end face of the panel 102. The Hall sensor 2002 and the magnet 2001 are positioned opposite each other, allowing the Hall sensor 2002 to sense the magnetic signal of the magnet 2001. In normal operation mode, when the rocker arm 1301 is not raised, the Hall sensor 2002 can sense the magnetic signal of the magnet 2001 and outputs a signal to the control chip, enabling the entire mechanism to operate normally. However, during the process of the panel 102 returning from the completed state to the initial state, if the rocker arm 1301 is raised, the magnet 2001 and the Hall sensor 2002 separate, and the Hall sensor 2002 can no longer sense the magnetic signal of the magnet 2001. The control chip will receive another signal, and the control chip can control the drive device to stop running or drive the drive device to move the panel 102 away from the opening 4002, thereby releasing the gripper and achieving the anti-pinch function.
[0152] It should be noted that other detection components can be used to replace the combination of magnet 2001 and Hall sensor 2002 to determine whether a pinching phenomenon has occurred, so as to achieve further control. No specific limitations are made here.
[0153] In addition, the driving device of this embodiment can also be connected to the slider 1401 via the lever 402, see reference. Figures 13 to 15 It is understood that the slider 1401 is provided with a guide waist-shaped groove 1302, and a guide boss 1101 is correspondingly provided at one end of the lever 402. The guide boss 1101 cooperates with the guide waist-shaped groove 1302. The specific connection method and beneficial effects of the lever 402 are as described in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.
[0154] Reference Figure 22It is understood that the door component in this embodiment of the invention can also be configured to, in Figure 5 Based on the existing scheme, a first compression spring 2101 is added. One end of the first compression spring 2101 is connected to the lever 402, and the other end is connected to the fixed bracket 401 or the housing. The first compression spring 2101 is configured to provide forces in different directions to the lever 402 during its rotation, causing the lever 402 to rotate in different directions. Specifically, the fixed bracket 401 is provided with a first mounting part 2102, and the lever 402 is provided with a second mounting part 2103. One end of the first compression spring 2101 is connected to the first mounting part 2102, and the other end is connected to the second mounting part 2103.
[0155] Reference Figure 23 It is understood that in the initial state of the door assembly of this embodiment, the line connecting the first mounting part 2102 and the second mounting part 2103 is defined as the indicator line 2201. The direction of the force exerted by the elastic element such as the first compression spring 2101 on the lever 402 is the same as the direction of the indicator line 2201 toward the lever 402. The line connecting the two ends of the lever 402 forms the center line 2202. The first compression spring 2101 is located on the front side of the lever 402, and both the first mounting part 2102 and the second mounting part 2103 are located on the front side of the center line 2202. In the initial state, the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is located above the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force exerted by the first compression spring 2101 on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a clockwise rotation tendency, thereby keeping the panel 102 at the opening 4002.
[0156] Reference Figure 24 It is understood that in the embodiment of the present invention, the first compression spring 2101 is in a critical state, and the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 coincides with the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force exerted by the first compression spring 2101 on the lever 402 will not cause the lever 402 to have a tendency to rotate.
[0157] Reference Figure 25 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention is in an intermediate state, and the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is moved to the lower part of the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force of the first compression spring 2101 acting on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a counterclockwise rotation tendency, thereby forming an assist to help the user push open the panel 102, so that the panel 102 moves backward quickly.
[0158] Reference Figure 26It is understood that when the door assembly of the present invention is in the completed state, the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is still located below the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force of the first compression spring 2101 acting on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a counterclockwise rotation tendency, thereby keeping the panel 102 in the completed state.
[0159] It is understood that during the process of the door component of this embodiment of the invention switching from the completed state to the initial state, as long as panel 102 reaches... Figure 24 At the critical state position shown, the force of the first compression spring 2101 will change from resistance to assistance, helping the panel 102 to return to and remain at the opening 4002, thus achieving the design of a hidden handle.
[0160] Reference Figures 27 to 30 It is understandable that a first tension spring 2601 can be used instead of a first compression spring 2101, in which case the second mounting part 2103 is located behind the centerline 2202. Of course, the first tension spring 2601 can also be replaced by an elastic element such as a rubber band or elastic rope, with a similar structure and usage. The following explanation uses the first tension spring 2601 as an example.
[0161] Reference Figure 27 It is understood that when the door assembly of this embodiment of the invention is in the initial state, the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is transferred to the lower part of the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force of the first tension spring 2601 acting on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a clockwise rotation tendency, thereby keeping the panel 102 at the opening 4002.
[0162] Reference Figure 28 It is understood that in the embodiment of the present invention, the first tension spring 2601 is in a critical state, and the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 coincides with the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force exerted by the first tension spring 2601 on the lever 402 will not cause the lever 402 to have a tendency to rotate.
[0163] Reference Figure 29 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention is in an intermediate state, and the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is transferred to the top of the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force of the first tension spring 2601 acting on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a counterclockwise rotation tendency, thereby forming an assist to help the user push open the panel 102, so that the panel 102 moves backward quickly.
[0164] Reference Figure 26It is understood that when the door assembly of the present invention is in the completed state, the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is still located above the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force of the first tension spring 2601 acting on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a counterclockwise rotation tendency, thereby keeping the panel 102 in the completed state.
[0165] Reference Figures 31 to 34 It is understandable that a first torsion spring 3001 can be used instead of a first compression spring 2101, and both the first mounting part 2102 and the second mounting part 2103 are located on the front side of the center line 2202.
[0166] Reference Figure 31 It is understood that in the initial state of the door assembly of the present invention, the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is located above the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force of the first torsion spring 3001 acting on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a clockwise rotation tendency, thereby keeping the panel 102 at the opening 4002.
[0167] Reference Figure 32 It is understood that in the embodiment of the present invention, the first torsion spring 3001 is in a critical state, and the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 coincides with the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force exerted by the first torsion spring 3001 on the lever 402 will not cause the lever 402 to have a tendency to rotate.
[0168] Reference Figure 33 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention is in an intermediate state, and the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is moved to the lower part of the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force of the first torsion spring 3001 acting on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a counterclockwise rotation tendency, thereby forming an assist to help the user push open the panel 102, so that the panel 102 moves backward quickly.
[0169] Reference Figure 34 It is understood that when the door assembly of the present invention is in the completed state, the intersection of the indicator line 2201 and the center line 2202 is still located below the rotation center 2203 of the lever 402. At this time, the force of the first torsion spring 3001 acting on the lever 402 causes the lever 402 to have a counterclockwise rotation tendency, thereby keeping the panel 102 in the completed state.
[0170] It should be noted that the door assembly in the embodiments of the present invention may also include structures such as guide components and drive devices. The specific connection methods and beneficial effects are as described in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here.
[0171] Reference Figure 35 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention can also be configured to include a housing (not shown in the figure), a panel 102, a drive device, and a clutch mechanism 3401. The housing is provided with a handle groove 4001, which has an opening 4002. The panel 102 is disposed at the opening 4002, and the panel 102 is driven by the drive device to extend and retract along the axial direction of the opening 4002. The clutch mechanism 3401 is used to control the connection or disengagement of the drive device and the panel 102. In automatic operation, the clutch mechanism 3401 connects the drive device and the panel 102, enabling the drive device to move the panel 102, thus achieving automated control. In the event of a power outage or other emergencies requiring manual operation, the clutch mechanism 3401 disengages the drive device from the panel 102. The movement of the panel 102 will not affect the drive device, effectively protecting the motor 901 and other drive devices from damage. Furthermore, since there is no resistance from the drive device, less force is required to push the panel 102, making it easier to push.
[0172] Reference Figure 35 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention also includes a fixing bracket 401 (see reference). Figure 9 A lever 402 and a fixed bracket 401 are connected to the inner side of the handle groove 4001. One end of the lever 402 is rotatably connected to the fixed bracket 401 via a rotating shaft 903, and the other end is connected to the panel 102. A drive device drives the rotating shaft 903 to rotate. A clutch mechanism 3401 is located between the drive device and the rotating shaft 903. When the clutch mechanism 3401 connects the drive device and the rotating shaft 903, the drive device can move the panel 102 via the rotating shaft 903 and the lever 402. When the clutch mechanism 3401 disengages the drive device from the rotating shaft 903, the user pushes the panel 102, causing the rotating shaft 903 and the lever 402 to rotate, while the drive device remains unaffected at least for a period of time.
[0173] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the drive device may be connected to the panel 102 only through the clutch mechanism 3401, without the lever 402. For example, both ends of the panel 102 are rotatably connected to the housing, and the drive device drives the panel 102 to rotate in the front-back direction.
[0174] Reference Figure 36It is understood that the clutch mechanism 3401 includes a protrusion 3501 located on the rotating shaft 903 and a recess 3502 connected to the drive device. The recess 3502 accommodates the protrusion 3501, and the width of the recess 3502 is greater than the maximum width of the protrusion 3501 within the recess 3502, resulting in a rotational clearance 3503 between the recess 3502 and the protrusion 3501. That is, the recess 3502 and the protrusion 3501 are located on the same circle, and the curvature of the recess 3502 is greater than that of the protrusion 3501. Due to the rotational clearance 3503, the protrusion 3501 will not contact the sidewall of the recess 3502 at a specific position, thus preventing transmission. When one side of the protrusion 3501 in the direction of rotation contacts the sidewall of the recess 3502, the protrusion 3501 and the recess 3502 will rotate together, thus achieving transmission.
[0175] It should be noted that, regarding the combined structure of the protrusion 3501 and the rotating shaft 903, the protrusion 3501 can be designed as a separate part and then installed on the rotating shaft 903, or the protrusion 3501 and the rotating shaft 903 can be designed to be machined from the same blank.
[0176] Reference Figure 37 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention is in its initial state. The driving device includes a motor 901, the output shaft of which is connected to a drive gear 902, and a rotating shaft 903 is connected to a driven gear 904. The drive gear 902 meshes with the driven gear 904, and a recess 3502 is provided on the driven gear 904. When the user pushes the panel 102 from the front, the panel 102 drives the rotating shaft 903 and the lever 402 to rotate, and the protrusion 3501 rotates counterclockwise with the rotating shaft 903. At this time, the upper sides of the protrusion 3501 and the recess 3502 abut against each other, while the lower sides of the protrusion 3501 and the recess 3502 do not contact each other. Therefore, the recess 3502 does not rotate with the protrusion 3501.
[0177] Reference Figure 38 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention is in an intermediate state. Since only the protrusion 3501 rotates while the concave part 3502 remains stationary, there is no contact between the two sides of the protrusion 3501 and the concave part 3502, and the rotation of the protrusion 3501 is not resisted by the motor 901.
[0178] Reference Figure 39 It is understood that in the completed state of the door assembly of this embodiment, the lower sides of the protrusion 3501 and the recess 3502 abut against each other, while there is a large gap between the upper sides of the protrusion 3501 and the recess 3502. When the door assembly returns from the completed state to the initial state, the protrusion 3501 will not drive the recess 3502 to rotate, that is, the rotation of the protrusion 3501 is not resisted by the motor 901.
[0179] Reference Figure 40 It is understood that the door component in this embodiment of the invention is in a completed state, but... Figure 39 The difference is that Figure 40 The panel 102 is driven by the motor 901 from... Figure 37 The door assembly moves from its initial state to its completed state. During this process, the driven gear 904 drives the convex part 3501 and the rotating shaft 903 to rotate via the recess 3502, with the upper sides of the convex part 3501 and the recess 3502 remaining in contact. When the door assembly returns from the completed state to the initial state, the driven gear 904 first idles at a certain angle to eliminate the gap between the lower sides of the convex part 3501 and the recess 3502, causing the lower sides of the convex part 3501 and the recess 3502 to abut against each other, allowing the motor 901 to drive the rotating shaft 903 to rotate.
[0180] It is understandable that the output shaft of the motor 901 can also be connected to the rotating shaft 903 through the rotating shaft connecting sleeve 1001. At this time, the concave part 3502 is provided on the rotating shaft connecting sleeve 1001 and the convex part 3501 is provided on the rotating shaft 903, which can achieve the same clutch effect.
[0181] It should be noted that the clutch mechanism 3401 can also be replaced by a driven plate, a driving plate, and a pressure plate. The drive device transmits power to the driven plate through the friction between the contact surfaces of the driving plate and the pressure plate and the driven plate. The separation or engagement of the drive device and the panel 102 is achieved by controlling whether the driven plate and the driving plate are engaged.
[0182] Reference Figure 35 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention also includes guide components such as a sliding shaft 501 to better guide the movement of the panel 102.
[0183] Understandably, in the initial state, the first compression spring 2101 presses the panel 102 tightly against the opening 4002. When the user pushes the panel 102 open, they need to overcome the force of the first compression spring 2101, causing it to compress and transition to a critical state. Only then can the first compression spring 2101 release its elastic potential energy, providing assistance to help the user push the panel 102 open. Therefore, in the distance from the initial state to the critical state, the force generated by the first compression spring 2101 is the resistance for the user to push the panel 102 open. By combining it with the rocker arm 1301, when the user pushes the panel 102, the edge of the rocker arm 1301 abuts against the inner side of the outer casing, causing the rocker arm 1301 to tilt upwards. Utilizing the lever principle, the panel 102 is pushed more easily, helping to overcome the elastic force of the first compression spring 2101 during the transition process and improving the user experience. Furthermore, after the panel 102 passes the critical state, the pushing force of the rocker arm 1301 decreases, while the assisting effect of the first compression spring 2101 increases. This allows the shortcomings of having only the first compression spring 2101 or only the rocker arm 1301 to be overcome throughout the process, thus forming a complementary effect.
[0184] Understandably, in the event of a power outage, if the panel 102 is pushed with the assistance of the rocker arm 1301, a significant amount of manual pushing force could easily damage the drive mechanism, such as the motor 901, which is connected to the panel 102. However, by using the clutch mechanism 3401 in conjunction with the panel 102, the drive mechanism disengages from the panel 102 when pushed manually, effectively protecting the motor 901 from damage. Furthermore, the absence of resistance from the drive mechanism reduces the force required to push the panel 102, making it easier to move. Additionally, the clutch mechanism 3401 has a gap; if the point of force is far away when pushing the panel 102, the transmitted force is small, potentially causing jamming. By using the rocker arm 1301 in conjunction with the panel 102, pushing the panel 102 manually utilizes the lever principle, requiring less effort and reducing the possibility of jamming.
[0185] Understandably, in the initial state, the clutch mechanism 3401 disengages the drive device from the panel 102. The panel 102, no longer restrained by the drive device, is prone to wobbling and shifting, making it difficult to maintain its position at the opening 4002, resulting in poor concealment. Furthermore, due to the gap in the clutch mechanism 3401, if the point of force is far away when pushing the panel 102, the transmitted force is small, potentially causing jamming. However, by using it in conjunction with the first compression spring 2101, in the initial state, the first compression spring 2101 presses the panel 102 firmly at the opening 4002, improving the concealment effect. Additionally, since there is no resistance from the drive device and the elastic element provides assistance, less force is required to push the panel 102, making it easier to push and reducing the possibility of jamming.
[0186] Reference Figure 41 and Figure 42 It is understood that the handle groove 4001 includes a latching groove 4003 and a movable groove 4004, which are connected. The opening 4002 is also connected to the movable groove 4004, and the panel 102 is located in the movable groove 4004. The movable groove 4004 accommodates the panel 102 to move telescopically along the axial direction of the opening 4002. When a person's hand is inserted into the opening 4002, it enters the latching groove 4003, thereby allowing the door 101 to be pulled.
[0187] Reference Figure 41 and Figure 42 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention also includes a light source 4005, which is used to illuminate the handle groove 4003. By setting the light source 4005, the light source 4005 can be turned on when the user pushes open the panel 102, thereby illuminating the area where the handle groove 4003 is located, indicating the position of the handle groove 4003, making it convenient for the user to use and improving the user experience.
[0188] Reference Figure 41 and Figure 42 It is understandable that the light source 4005 is located on the inner wall of the handle groove 4003 and is located on the side of the handle groove 4003 away from the panel 102, that is, away from the movable groove 4004. By keeping the light source 4005 away from the panel 102, it is not easy for a person to touch the light source 4005 and the position of the handle groove 4003 can be better indicated.
[0189] Understandably, the outer surface of the light source 4005 is flush with the inner wall of the handle groove 4003 to prevent accidental contact. The inner wall of the handle groove 4003 has a mounting recess to accommodate the light source 4005, ensuring that the outer surface of the light source 4005 is flush with the inner wall of the handle groove 4003. This illuminates the handle groove 4003 while preventing accidental contact with the light source 4005 when a person inserts their hand into the handle groove 4003.
[0190] Understandably, the outer casing can be made of a light-transmitting material, such as glass. By using a light-transmitting material, the light emitted by the light source 4005 can pass through the casing, making it easier for users to quickly locate the hand catch groove 4003 without having to touch around to find it.
[0191] Reference Figure 41 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention is in its initial state. At this time, the outer surface of the panel 102 is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the housing, and the light source 4005 remains in the off state.
[0192] Reference Figure 42 It is understood that the door assembly of this embodiment of the invention is in a completed state. At this time, the panel 102 is retracted into the movable groove 4004 to expose the handle groove 4003. The light source 4005 is turned on to illuminate the handle groove 4003 and the movable groove 4004, so that the user can easily see the position of the handle groove 4003.
[0193] Understandably, the light source 4005 can be used in conjunction with detection elements such as limit switches to provide convenience. For example, the limit switch is set on the path of the panel 102. When the user pushes the panel 102 toward the interior of the movable slot 4004, or the drive device drives the panel 102 toward the interior of the movable slot 4004, the limit switch is triggered, controlling the light source 4005 to turn on.
[0194] Reference Figure 43 and Figure 45It is understood that the panel 102 includes a grip portion 4201, two first connecting portions 4202, and two second connecting portions 4401. The grip portion 4201 is arranged along an axis parallel to the rotation axis 903. The two first connecting portions 4202 are respectively connected to both ends of the grip portion 4201 and are arranged along an axis perpendicular to the rotation axis 903. The two ends of the second connecting portions 4401 are respectively connected to the first connecting portions 4202 and the lever 402 and are arranged along an axis parallel to the rotation axis 903. The grip portion 4201 protrudes from the opening 4002 and is held by the user outside the housing. The second connecting portions 4401 are used to connect the lever 402 to transmit power, and the first connecting portions 4202 are used to connect the grip portion 4201 and the second connecting portions 4401, forming a handle shape overall.
[0195] It is understandable that the first connecting part 4202 can be set in a direction away from the back of the gripping part 4201, that is, set in a rearward direction, and no specific limitation is made here.
[0196] Reference Figure 44 It is understandable that the fixed bracket 401 is equipped with a rear cover 4301, and the rear cover 4301 is equipped with an opening / closing device 4302. (Refer to...) Figure 46 It is understood that the opener / closer 4302 includes a telescopic push rod 4501, which is located between the panel 102 and the fixed bracket 401. When the push rod 4501 is in the retracted state, the entire panel 102 can be normally retracted into the handle groove 4001. When the push rod 4501 is in the extended state, the grip portion 4201 and part of the first connecting portion 4202 are pushed out of the handle groove 4001, forming a shape for the user to grip.
[0197] Reference Figures 46 to 55It is understood that the opening / closing device 4302 includes a housing 4502, a slider 4503, and a second compression spring 4504. The housing 4502 is provided with a closed-shaped guide groove 4505, which has a first stop position 4802 and a second stop position 4803. The slider 4503 is located between the guide groove 4505 and the push rod 4501. One end of the slider 4503 is provided with a sliding part 4801, which is located within the guide groove 4505. The housing 4502 is provided with a guide hole, through which the push rod 4501 passes (not shown in the figure). The two ends of the second compression spring 4504 are respectively connected to the push rod 4501 and the housing 4502. The push rod 4501 moves axially along the guide hole, causing the second compression spring 4504 to be compressed or extended. The push rod 4501 is provided with a rotating part 4701, which is rotatably connected to the slider 4503. The axis of the rotating part 4701 is perpendicular to the axis of the push rod 4501. The push rod 4501 is rotatably connected to the slider 4503 through the rotating part 4701, so that the movement of the push rod 4501 drives the movement of the slider 4503, and the locking of the slider 4503 can limit the movement of the push rod 4501. In order to make the movement trajectory of the slider 4503 more controllable, the housing 4502 is also provided with a strip-shaped limiting groove 4702. The rotating part 4701 is provided with a limiting part 4703, which is located in the limiting groove 4702, so that one end of the slider 4503 moves linearly along the limiting groove 4702, and the other end moves circumferentially along the guide groove 4505.
[0198] Specifically, in the first state, the sliding part 4801 is located at the first stop position 4802, keeping the push rod 4501 in the retracted state. In the second state, the sliding part 4801 is located at the second stop position 4803, keeping the push rod 4501 in the extended state. In other words, both the first stop position 4802 and the second stop position 4803 enable the sliding part 4801 to remain in a relatively stable state, preventing it from disengaging under the influence of external forces, thereby keeping the push rod 4501 in a predetermined position.
[0199] Reference Figure 47 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention is in its initial state (hidden state). At this time, the outer surface of the grip portion 4201 is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the housing. Correspondingly, referring to... Figure 48 At this time, the push rod 4501 retracts into the housing 4502, and the second compression spring 4504 is in a compressed state. (Refer to...) Figure 49 The sliding part 4801 is located at the first stop position 4802, and the limiting part 4703 is located at one end of the limiting groove 4702 near the guide groove 4505. The dashed lines in the figure represent the movement paths of the sliding part 4801 and the limiting part 4703.
[0200] Reference Figure 50 It is understood that the door assembly in this embodiment of the invention is in an intermediate state. At this time, the outer surface of the grip portion 4201 begins to extend beyond the handle groove 4001, and visually, the outer surface of the grip portion 4201 protrudes from the outer surface of the outer shell. Correspondingly, referring to... Figure 51 At this time, under the action of the second compression spring 4504, the push rod 4501 pops out of the guide hole, thereby pushing the second connecting part 4401 to move, so that the grip part 4201 extends out of the handle groove 4001. (Refer to...) Figure 52 The pressing grip 4201 pushes the push rod 4501 to move backward a certain distance, causing the sliding part 4801 to disengage from the first stop position 4802. Then, the second compression spring 4504 acts on the push rod 4501, causing the slide 4503 to move toward the second stop position 4803.
[0201] Reference Figure 53 It is understood that the door assembly of this embodiment is in a completed state (use state). At this time, the grip portion 4201 and part of the first connecting portion 4202 extend beyond the handle groove 4001, facilitating user gripping. Correspondingly, referring to... Figure 54 At this point, push rod 4501 is fully extended, and the second compression spring 4504 returns to its original state or is slightly compressed. (Refer to...) Figure 55 The sliding part 4801 is located at the second stop position 4803, and the limiting part 4703 is located at the end of the limiting groove 4702 away from the guide groove 4505.
[0202] Understandably, when it is necessary to restore the door assembly from the completed state to the initial state, the user pushes the grip 4201 to move backward, compressing the second compression spring 4504, and the sliding part 4801 moves along... Figure 55 It moves clockwise from the second stop position 4803 to the first stop position 4802.
[0203] It should be noted that in the above example, the sliding part 4801 stops at the first stop position 4802 by the recess formed by the guide groove 4505 itself, while the sliding part 4801 stops at the second stop position 4803 by the push rod 4501 abutting against the housing 4502, or by the limiting part 4703 abutting against one end of the limiting groove 4702. In other solutions, other solutions can also be used, such as the guide groove 4505 and the limiting groove 4702 not being connected, and the sliding part 4801 stopping at the second stop position 4803 by the sliding part 4801 abutting against the edge of the guide groove 4505.
[0204] Reference Figure 55It is understandable that the first stop position 4802 is offset from the axis of the limiting groove 4702, that is, the first stop position 4802 and the axis of the limiting groove 4702 are not on the same straight line. This causes the sliding part 4801 to move away from the axis of the limiting groove 4702 when the slider 4503 moves backward, thereby disengaging from the first stop position 4802. In order to further control the sliding direction of the sliding part 4801, the height of the side of the first stop position 4802 closer to the axis of the limiting groove 4702 is set to be greater than the height of the side farther from the axis of the limiting groove 4702, thereby guiding the sliding part 4801 to move away from the axis of the limiting groove 4702. Additionally, a guide ramp 5401 is provided to guide the sliding part 4801 from the second stop position 4803 to the first stop position 4802. The guide ramp 5401 is configured to intersect the axis of the limiting groove 4702, that is, the guide ramp 5401 is located on the extension line of the limiting groove 4702, so that the sliding part 4801 moves in a straight line to reach the guide ramp 5401, and then moves along the guide ramp 5401, and finally falls into the first stop position 4802.
[0205] Reference Figure 56 It is understood that the second compression spring 4504 can also be replaced by a second tension spring 5501. Specifically, a connecting end is provided on both the push rod 4501 and the housing 4502. The two ends of the second tension spring 5501 are respectively connected to the two connecting ends, so that different deformation amounts are generated as the push rod 4501 moves to provide a restoring force. The specific movement process is referred to the embodiment of the second compression spring 4504, which will not be repeated here.
[0206] It should be noted that the second tension spring 5501 can also be replaced by elastic components such as rubber bands or elastic ropes.
[0207] Reference Figure 57 It is understood that the second compression spring 4504 can also be replaced by a second torsion spring 5601. The two ends of the second torsion spring 5601 are respectively connected to the push rod 4501 and the housing 4502, so that different deformations are generated as the push rod 4501 moves to provide a restoring force. The specific movement process is described in the embodiment of the second compression spring 4504, and will not be repeated here.
[0208] It should be noted that the push rod 4501 can also be driven by a linear motor 901 or other drive mechanisms.
[0209] This invention provides a control method for a door assembly, applied to the door assembly described in the above embodiments. The structure or component configuration of the door assembly has been described in detail in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. (Refer to...) Figure 58As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S5710, S5720, and S5730.
[0210] In step S5710, in response to the detection of the target object, the control panel transitions from the first state to the second state.
[0211] The detection device detects user signals and, upon detection, controls the drive unit to activate. The drive unit, via a lever control panel, extends and retracts along the axial direction of the opening. When the user's handle is detected, the control panel protrudes from the opening or retracts into the housing. Detection trigger signals include one of the following: gesture, voice, touch, or mechanical button. The cooperation between the detection device and the drive unit achieves human-machine interaction, enhancing the product's technological appeal. For example, when a hand approaches the panel, the detection device (an infrared sensor) detects the user's proximity to a predetermined distance and sends a signal to the control chip. The control chip then activates the drive unit, causing the panel to move to reveal the handle groove or extend the grip. Similarly, if the detection device detects a user's gesture matching a predetermined gesture, it sends a signal to the control chip, which in turn activates the drive unit, causing the panel to move to reveal the handle groove or extend the grip. Furthermore, when a hand touches the panel, the detection device senses the touch and sends a signal to the control chip, which then activates the drive unit, causing the panel to move to reveal the handle groove or extend the grip. Therefore, this embodiment does not impose specific restrictions on the type of detection signal.
[0212] Step S5720: In response to the continuous detection of the target object, the panel remains in the second state.
[0213] If the door component remains in a usable state, either by continuously detecting the user and keeping the handle groove or extending the grip, it will not hinder the user from opening the door or cause the user's hand to be pinched, thus improving the user experience.
[0214] In step S5730, in response to the absence of a target object, the control panel transitions from the second state to the first state.
[0215] After the detection device receives a signal that a person has left, such as when a person's hand leaves the panel or when the user moves away from the set distance, the control panel returns to its original position, and the outer surface of the panel is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the casing, restoring the hidden state.
[0216] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for controlling a door assembly, such as... Figure 59 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S5710, S5810, S5820, S5830, and S5840.
[0217] In step S5710, in response to the detection of the target object, the control panel transitions from the first state to the second state.
[0218] Once a user's signal is detected, indicating that the user is ready to open the door, the control panel moves to make it easier for the user to use.
[0219] In step S5810, if a target object is detected, continue the detection; if no target object is detected, proceed to step S5820.
[0220] If the user's signal is still detected, it means the user is still using the device, and the detection continues until no user signal is detected. During this period, the panel state remains unchanged, i.e., it remains in the second state. If no user signal is detected, it means the user has finished using the device, and the next step S5820 is executed.
[0221] S5820, start timing.
[0222] If no user signal is detected, start a timer to calculate the time the user left.
[0223] In step S5830, if the timer reaches the first preset time, then step S5840 is executed; otherwise, the timer continues to be checked to see if the first preset time has been reached.
[0224] Step S5840: The control panel transitions from the second state to the first state.
[0225] Once the preset safe time is reached, indicating that the user has moved away, the control panel returns to its original position, its outer surface flush with or smoothly transitioning to the outer shell, resuming its hidden state. By designing a first preset time as a safe time, the user has ample time to remove their hand, thereby reducing the risk of pinching.
[0226] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a control method for a door assembly, applied to, for example... Figure 35 The diagram shows a door assembly with a clutch mechanism. (Example) Figure 60 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S5910 and S5920, and steps S5910 and S5920 are an embodiment of a refined process of step S5710.
[0227] In step S5910, in response to detecting a target object, the drive device is controlled to rotate forward at a first speed for a second preset time.
[0228] After the detection device receives a signal that someone is there, the drive device rotates in the forward direction at a first speed. The drive device drives the concave part to rotate, and one side of the concave part abuts against the convex part, thereby driving the convex part to rotate together. After the drive device continues to operate for a second preset time, the panel moves to the second state position.
[0229] Step S5920: Control the drive device to reverse at the second speed.
[0230] The drive unit rotates in the opposite direction at a second speed, and the rotation angle of the drive unit is 'a', so that the other side of the concave part abuts against the convex part. That is, the reverse rotation of the drive unit causes the concave part to rotate equal to the distance of the rotation gap between the concave and convex parts. Due to the existence of the rotation gap, the convex part remains stationary. By reversing the drive unit, the time of the concave part's idle rotation is reduced, shortening the time for the panel to return.
[0231] It should be noted that the first speed can be equal to or different from the second speed. Since the drive unit idles when reversing at the second speed, the second speed can be designed to be greater than the first speed to improve efficiency.
[0232] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a control method for a door assembly, applied to, for example... Figure 35 The diagram shows a door assembly with a clutch mechanism. (Example) Figure 61 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S6010 and S6020, and steps S6010 and S6020 are an embodiment of a refined process of step S5730.
[0233] In step S6010, in response to the absence of a target object, the control drive device is reversed at a third speed for a third preset time.
[0234] After the detection device receives the signal that a person has left, the drive device rotates in the opposite direction at a third speed. The drive device drives the concave part to rotate, and the other side of the concave part abuts against the convex part, thereby driving the convex part to rotate together. After the drive device operates for a third preset time, the panel moves to the position of the first state.
[0235] Step S6020: Control the drive device to rotate forward at the fourth speed.
[0236] The drive unit rotates forward at a fourth speed, and the rotation angle of the drive unit is 'a', so that one side of the concave part abuts against the convex part. That is, the forward rotation of the drive unit causes the concave part to rotate equal to the distance of the rotation gap between the concave and convex parts. Due to the existence of the rotation gap, the convex part remains stationary. By rotating the drive unit forward, the time of the concave part's idle rotation is reduced, shortening the time for the next panel opening.
[0237] It should be noted that the third speed can be equal to or different from the fourth speed. Since the drive unit idles when rotating forward at the fourth speed, the fourth speed can be designed to be greater than the third speed to improve efficiency.
[0238] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a control method for a door assembly, applied to, for example... Figure 21The diagram shows a door assembly with a clutch mechanism. (Example) Figure 62 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S5710, S5810, S6110, S6120, and S6130.
[0239] In step S5710, in response to the detection of the target object, the control panel transitions from the first state to the second state.
[0240] Once a user's signal is detected, indicating that the user is ready to open the door, the control panel moves to make it easier for the user to use.
[0241] In step S5810, if a target object is detected, continue detection; if no target object is detected, proceed to step S6110.
[0242] Step S6110: Move the control panel toward the opening.
[0243] After the detection device receives a signal that a person has left, such as when a person's hand leaves the panel or when the user moves away from the set distance, the control panel returns to its original position, and the outer surface of the panel is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the casing, restoring the hidden state.
[0244] Step S6120: If a magnetic signal is detected, continue with step S6110; if no magnetic signal is detected, proceed with step S6130.
[0245] As the panel returns to the opening, the Hall sensor continuously detects the magnetic signal from the magnet. Detecting the magnetic signal indicates the panel is not tilted and can function normally. If no magnetic signal is detected, it means the panel has been obstructed by a hand and tilted, causing the Hall sensor to separate from the magnet.
[0246] Step S6130: The control panel stops or moves away from the opening.
[0247] Stopping the control panel prevents it from further clamping the user's hand to the casing. Moving the control panel away from the opening releases the user's hand; both actions prevent pinching and reduce the possibility of accidental injury.
[0248] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a method for controlling a door assembly, such as... Figure 63 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, step S6210.
[0249] In step S6210, in response to a power failure and restart, and with the panel in the second state, the control panel switches to the first state.
[0250] When power is off, the panel is in the process of opening or closing, and therefore may be in the second state, which is either the completed state or an intermediate state. When power is restored and the system restarts, the control panel moves to the first state, making the outer surface of the panel flush with or smoothly transitioning to the outer surface of the casing, thus returning to its hidden state.
[0251] Another embodiment of the present invention also provides a control method for a door assembly, applied to, for example... Figure 41 The diagram shows a door assembly with a clutch mechanism. (Example) Figure 64 As shown, the control method of this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, steps S6310, S6320, and S6330.
[0252] In step S6310, in response to the detection of the target object, the control panel transitions from the first state to the second state and controls the light source to turn on.
[0253] The detection device detects user signals and, upon detection, controls the drive unit to start. The drive unit then moves axially along the opening via a lever control panel. When the user's handle is detected, the control panel retracts into the housing and activates the light source, illuminating the area where the handle slot is located and indicating its position for user convenience and improved user experience. There is no specific sequence requirement between the light source activation and the panel movement.
[0254] In step S6320, in response to the continuous detection of the target object, the panel is kept in the second state and the light source is turned on.
[0255] If a user is continuously detected, the handle groove remains visible, ensuring the door component is in usable condition. This prevents the user from opening the door and avoids the risk of pinching their hand, thus improving the user experience. Furthermore, keeping the light source on also enhances the door's aesthetics.
[0256] In step S6330, in response to the absence of a target object, the control panel transitions from the second state to the first state, and the light source is turned off.
[0257] After the detection device receives a signal indicating that a person has left, such as when a hand leaves the panel or when the user moves away to a set distance, the control panel returns to its original position, and the outer surface of the panel is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the casing, restoring its hidden state. Furthermore, the light source is turned off to save energy. Of course, in other embodiments, the light source can also be turned off in step S6320; this is not a limitation.
[0258] One embodiment of the present invention also provides a control device, which is built into a household appliance such as a refrigerator, and includes one or more control processors and a memory. The following description uses a control processor and a memory as an example.
[0259] The control processor and memory can be connected via a bus or other means. Memory, as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, can be used to store non-transitory software programs and non-transitory computer-executable programs. Furthermore, memory may include high-speed random access memory, and may also include non-transitory memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other non-transitory solid-state storage device. In some embodiments, memory may optionally include memory remotely located relative to the control processor, and these remote memories can be connected to the control device via a network. Examples of such networks include, but are not limited to, the Internet, intranets, local area networks, mobile communication networks, and combinations thereof.
[0260] The non-transient software program and instructions required to implement the control method applied to the control device in the above embodiments are stored in memory. When executed by the controlled processor, the control method applied to the control device in the above embodiments is executed, for example, the method described above is executed. Figure 58 Method steps S5710 to S5730, Figure 59 Method steps S5710, S5810 to S5840, Figure 60 Method steps S5910 to S5920, Figure 61 Method steps S6010 to S6020 Figure 62 Method S5710, step S5810, steps S6110 to S6130, Figure 63 Method steps S6210, Figure 64 Method steps S6310 to S6330.
[0261] One embodiment of the present invention also provides a refrigerator, including the control device described in the above embodiment.
[0262] Since the refrigerator in this embodiment has the control device as in any of the above embodiments, the refrigerator in this embodiment has the hardware structure of the control device in the above embodiments, and the control processor in the control device can call the refrigerator control program stored in the memory to realize the control of the control device. The specific implementation of the refrigerator in this embodiment can refer to the above embodiments. To avoid redundancy, it will not be described again here.
[0263] Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions that are executed by one or more control processors. For example, execution by one control processor causes the one or more control processors to perform the control method described in the above method embodiment, for example, to perform the above-described control method. Figure 58 Method steps S5710 to S5730, Figure 59 Method steps S5710, S5810 to S5840, Figure 60 Method steps S5910 to S5920, Figure 61 Method steps S6010 to S6020 Figure 62 Method S5710, step S5810, steps S6110 to S6130, Figure 63 Method steps S6210, Figure 64 Method steps S6310 to S6330.
[0264] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that all or some of the steps and systems in the methods disclosed above can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, and suitable combinations thereof. Some or all of the physical components can be implemented as software executed by a processor, such as a central processing unit, digital signal processor, or microprocessor, or as hardware, or as an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit. Such software can be distributed on a computer-readable medium, which can include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or transient media). As is known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and is accessible to a computer. Furthermore, as is known to those skilled in the art, communication media typically contain computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms, and may include any information delivery medium.
[0265] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art, various changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
Claims
1. A door assembly, characterized in that, include: The outer casing has an opening, a handle groove, and a movable groove, wherein the handle groove and the movable groove are connected, and the opening and the movable groove are connected. A fixed bracket is connected to the inside of the outer casing; The panel is located in the movable slot. A light source is used to illuminate the handle groove. A lever, one end of which is rotatably connected to the fixed bracket and the other end of which is connected to the panel, so that the panel can extend and retract along the axial direction of the opening; An elastic element, one end of which is connected to the lever, and the other end of which is connected to the fixed bracket or the housing; The elastic element is located above the panel, which has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the outer surface of the panel is flush with or smoothly transitions to the outer surface of the outer shell. The elastic element acts on the lever with a force that is directed above the rotation center of the lever, so that the lever has a tendency to rotate clockwise. In the second state, the panel is retracted into the outer casing, and the elastic element acts on the lever in a direction downward toward the rotation center of the lever, so that the lever tends to rotate counterclockwise; during the transition between the first state and the second state, the elastic element has a critical state, in which the elastic element acts on the lever in a direction toward the rotation center of the lever.
2. The door assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light source is located on the inner wall of the handle groove and on the side of the handle groove away from the movable groove.
3. The door assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer surface of the light source is flush with the inner wall of the handle groove.
4. The door assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell is made of a light-transmitting material.
5. The door assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The door assembly also includes a guide assembly connected to the panel to guide the panel to move telescopically along the opening.
6. The door assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The guide assembly includes a sliding shaft, both ends of which are fixedly connected to the fixed bracket. The panel is slidably connected to the sliding shaft, and the lever is rotatably connected to the panel.
7. The door assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, One end of the lever is provided with a guide boss, and the panel is provided with a guide waist-shaped hole or guide waist-shaped groove that mates with the guide boss.
8. The door assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The panel is provided with a guide boss, and one end of the lever is provided with a guide waist-shaped hole or guide waist-shaped groove that cooperates with the guide boss.
9. The door assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The door assembly also includes a drive unit that drives the lever to rotate.
10. The door assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The lever is connected to the fixed bracket via a rotating shaft, and the driving device includes a motor, the output shaft of which is connected to the rotating shaft via a rotating shaft connecting sleeve.
11. The door assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The lever is connected to the fixed bracket via a rotating shaft. The driving device includes a motor, the output shaft of which is connected to a driving gear, and the rotating shaft is connected to a driven gear. The driving gear meshes with the driven gear.
12. A refrigerator, characterized in that, Includes the door assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.