Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator comprises a cabinet, a storage device installed in the cabinet, a door body for opening and closing the cabinet, and a driving assembly for driving the storage device to move or driving the door body to open and close; the driving assembly comprises a motor and a clutch mechanism in transmission connection with the motor; when the clutch mechanism is in an open state, the clutch mechanism disconnects the transmission between the motor and the slide rail assembly; when the clutch mechanism is in a closed state, the motor is in transmission connection with the slide rail assembly; the refrigerator further comprises an electricity storage module for storing electricity and electrically connected with the motor; a power supply detection device for detecting whether a power supply signal of the refrigerator is abnormal; and a control module for controlling the electricity storage module to supply power to the driving assembly to control the clutch mechanism to open when the power supply detection device detects that the power supply signal is abnormal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliances, and more particularly to a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Refrigerators have become an indispensable household appliance in daily life. Some refrigerators are equipped with storage devices or pull-out doors, which are generally connected to the refrigerator body via sliding rail assemblies. Some refrigerators have a drive mechanism that automatically drives the sliding rail assembly to open and close the refrigerator's storage devices or doors. However, when a power outage occurs, users often find themselves unable to operate the refrigerator manually, affecting its usability. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a refrigerator that, when a power supply abnormality is detected, controls the clutch mechanism to open, allowing the user to operate it manually.

[0004] To achieve the above-mentioned objective, one embodiment of the present invention provides a refrigerator, comprising: a cabinet, a storage device installed in the cabinet, a door for opening and closing the cabinet, and a drive assembly for driving the storage device to move or driving the door to open and close.

[0005] The drive assembly includes a motor and a clutch mechanism driven by the motor. When the clutch mechanism is in the open state, it disconnects the transmission between the motor and the door or the storage device. When the clutch mechanism is in the closed state, the motor is driven by the door or the storage device. The refrigerator also includes: An energy storage module, which is used to store electricity and is electrically connected to the motor; A power supply detection device is used to detect whether the power supply signal of the refrigerator is abnormal; The control module is used to control the energy storage module to supply power to the drive assembly to control the clutch mechanism to open when the power supply detection device detects an abnormal power supply signal.

[0006] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the motor can drive the clutch mechanism to open or close.

[0007] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the power supply detection device is used to detect the power supply voltage of the refrigerator. If the power supply voltage is less than a first preset value, a power supply abnormality signal is issued.

[0008] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, it also includes a DC power supply module, which is used to convert the AC power of the refrigerator power supply into DC power and supply it to the motor; The power supply detection device is used to detect the voltage at the power supply terminal of the DC power supply module. If the voltage at the power supply terminal is less than a second preset value, a power supply abnormality signal is issued.

[0009] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the control module is also used to: control the motor to drive the clutch mechanism to open when receiving the storage device opening end signal or closing end signal.

[0010] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the control module is also used to: when receiving an open signal or a close signal of the storage device, control the motor to drive the clutch mechanism to close, and drive the storage device to open or close.

[0011] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the control module is used to: when a power supply abnormality signal is received, if the motor is in operation, control the energy storage module to supply power to the motor.

[0012] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the control module is used to: when a power supply abnormality signal is received, if the drive component is driving the storage device to open or close, control the energy storage module to supply power to the motor, and control the motor to brake for a preset time before driving the clutch mechanism to open.

[0013] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the clutch mechanism includes an input gear, an output gear, and a connecting member. The connecting member has a linkage position and a clutch position. When the clutch mechanism is in the open state, the input gear is in the clutch position, and the connecting member disconnects the connection between the input gear and the output gear. When the clutch mechanism is in the closed state, the input gear is in the linkage position. The motor drives the input gear to rotate away from the clutch position, causing the connecting member and the output gear to rotate synchronously. The motor driving the input gear to rotate towards the clutch position can move the input gear to the clutch position.

[0014] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the linkage position includes a first linkage position and a second linkage position, and the clutch position is located between the first linkage position and the second linkage position; when the input gear is in the first linkage position, the forward rotation of the motor can drive the output gear to rotate to open the storage device, and the reverse rotation of the motor can drive the input gear to rotate sequentially to the clutch position and the second linkage position; when the input gear is in the second linkage position, the reverse rotation of the motor can drive the output gear to rotate to close the storage device, and the forward rotation of the motor can drive the input gear to rotate sequentially to the clutch position and the first linkage position.

[0015] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, a cam track is provided on the surface of the connector opposite to the input gear. The input gear is provided with a clutch protrusion that cooperates with the cam track. The cam track includes a first cam track and a second cam track arranged symmetrically. The intersection of the first cam track and the second cam track forms the clutch position. The two ends of the cam track respectively form the first linkage position and the second linkage position. The cam track is inclined from the clutch position to the first linkage position and the second linkage position. The connector is also provided with a connecting rod. The output gear has a connecting groove that cooperates with the connecting rod. The rotation of the input gear drives the clutch protrusion to move within the cam track, driving the connector to move axially so that the connecting rod engages or disengages from the connecting groove. When the clutch protrusion is in the clutch position, the connecting rod disengages from the connecting groove; when the clutch protrusion is in the linkage position, the connecting rod engages with the connecting groove.

[0016] This invention installs a power supply detection device and an energy storage module in the refrigerator. When an abnormal power supply signal is detected in the refrigerator, the energy storage module is controlled to supply power to the motor to drive the clutch mechanism, thereby ensuring that the clutch mechanism opens after the refrigerator is powered off. Users can then manually operate the storage device to open and close it without affecting its use. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of the box. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of the slide rail assembly. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The diagram shown is an exploded view of the slide rail assembly. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a driving component according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows the input gear. Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows the connector. Figure 8 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows a friction wheel. Figure 9 yes Figure 5 The diagram shows the output gear. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present invention, and any structural, methodological, or functional modifications made by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments are included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] See Figure 1 This invention provides a refrigerator 100, which includes a cabinet 110. The storage space formed within the cabinet 110 includes a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment. The refrigerator also includes a storage device installed within the cabinet and a door for opening and closing the cabinet. The storage device can be a drawer. A drive assembly 130 may also be installed within the refrigerator 110, which can be used to drive the storage device or the door.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, a slide rail assembly 130 may be installed inside the cabinet 110, and the slide rail assembly 130 may be installed on the side wall of the cabinet 110. In this embodiment, the slide rail assembly 130 may be installed on the side wall of the freezer compartment. Drawers and doors may be connected to the slide rail assembly, and a motor may drive the slide rail assembly to move, thereby driving the door to open and close or the storage device to move.

[0021] See Figures 1 to 4 In one embodiment of the present invention, the slide rail assembly 130 includes a fixed slide rail 131 and a movable slide rail. The fixed slide rail 131 is fixedly installed on the side wall of the housing 110, and the movable slide rail is slidably connected to the fixed slide rail 131. The movable slide rail is equipped with a storage device or a door. The drive assembly 140 is used to drive the movable slide rail to move. The sliding of the movable slide rail relative to the fixed slide rail 131 can drive the storage device or door to open or close. The side wall of the housing 110 may be provided with a receiving groove 111. The drive assembly 140 is fixedly installed in the housing 110 and may be partially placed in the receiving groove 111.

[0022] In this embodiment, the sidewall of the housing 110 can be directly recessed to form a receiving groove 111. The housing 110 may include an outer shell and an inner liner, and a heat-insulating material may be filled between the outer shell and the inner liner. The inner liner may be provided with an opening, and a pre-embedded box can be installed at the opening to form the receiving groove 111.

[0023] The drive assembly 140 is fixed inside the housing 110 and does not move with the sliding rail. The overall structure is simple, and part of the drive assembly 140 is placed in the receiving groove 111 on the side wall of the housing 110, which can reduce the space occupied by the drive assembly 140 inside the housing 110.

[0024] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drive assembly 140 includes a motor 143, a transmission mechanism, and a drive gear 142. The motor 143 is connected to the transmission mechanism, and the transmission mechanism is connected to the drive gear 142. The rotation of the motor 143 drives the transmission mechanism, which in turn drives the drive gear 142 to rotate. The movable slide rail may be provided with a rack 134 that meshes with the drive gear 142, and the axis of the drive gear 142 is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the movable slide rail.

[0025] In this embodiment, the rack 134 structure can be integrally formed with the movable slide rail, or it can be a separate rack 134 installed on the movable slide rail by screws or other fasteners. The front side is closer to the storage compartment opening, and the rear side is farther from the storage compartment opening. The drive assembly 140 can be set on the side closer to the storage compartment opening. When the motor 143 rotates forward, it drives the drive gear 142 to rotate, thereby moving the rack 134 and the movable slide rail forward, driving the storage device or door to open. When the motor 143 rotates in reverse, it drives the rack 134 and the movable slide rail to move backward, driving the storage device or door to close.

[0026] When the storage device or door is closed, the drive assembly 140 can be located on the front side of the sliding rail. When the storage device or door is open, the drive assembly 140 can be located on the rear side of the sliding rail. The overall drive structure is simple and compact.

[0027] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the movable slide rail may include a first movable slide rail 132 and a second movable slide rail 133. The slide rail assembly 130 further includes a synchronous transmission structure 150 that drives the first movable slide rail 132 and the second movable slide rail 133. The first movable slide rail 132 may be placed between the fixed slide rail 131 and the second movable slide rail 133, and is slidably connected to the fixed slide rail 131 and the second movable slide rail 133. A rack 134 may be disposed on the first movable slide rail 132. The second movable slide rail 133 may be fixedly connected to the storage device or the door. The movement of the first movable slide rail 132 can drive the synchronous transmission structure 150 to drive the second movable slide rail 133 to move in the same direction, thereby driving the storage device or the door to open or close.

[0028] In this embodiment, the synchronous transmission structure 150 may include a first pulley 151 and a second pulley 152 respectively installed at both ends of the first movable slide rail 132, and a synchronous belt 153 cooperating with the first pulley 151 and the second pulley 152. The two sides of the synchronous belt 153 may be fixedly connected to the fixed slide rail 131 and the second movable slide rail 133 respectively. The motor 143 drives the first movable slide rail 132 to move, which in turn drives the synchronous belt 153 to move, thereby causing the second movable slide rail 133 to slide relative to the first movable slide rail 132. The second movable slide rail 133 then drives the storage device or door to open or close. The direction of movement of the second movable slide rail 133 is the same as the direction of movement of the first movable slide rail 132. This increases the opening degree of the second movable slide rail 133, thereby increasing the opening degree of the storage device or door, making it convenient for storing food.

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, the sidewall of the housing 110 includes two opposing sidewalls, which can be a left sidewall and a right sidewall. A slide rail assembly 130 can be installed on both the left and right sidewalls. A drive assembly 140 can be disposed on one sidewall. The first movable slide rails 132 of the two slide rail assemblies 130 can be connected by a synchronizing rod. The drive assembly 140 can drive the first movable slide rail 132 on one side to move, and also drive the first movable slide rail 132 on the other side to move via the synchronizing rod.

[0030] The synchronizing rod can be set on the rear side of the storage device. The synchronizing rod can be connected to the first pulley 151 of the two side slide rail assemblies 130. By driving the two side pulleys to move synchronously, the two side slide rail assemblies can be driven to move synchronously.

[0031] In this way, only one drive component 140 can be set inside the box 110 to drive the movement of the slide rail components 130 on both sides. The overall structure is simple, and the opening of the storage device or the door is uniform and the force is balanced.

[0032] In another embodiment of the present invention, the left and right sides of the housing 110 are provided with a slide rail assembly 130, a receiving groove 111, and a drive assembly 140. The drive assembly 140 of the left side wall can be installed in the receiving groove 111 of the left side wall and directly drive the slide rail assembly 130 of the left side to move, and the drive assembly 140 of the right side wall can be installed in the receiving groove 111 of the right side wall and directly drive the slide rail assembly 130 of the right side to move.

[0033] In this embodiment, the same slide rail assembly 130 and drive assembly 140 can be provided on both the left and right side walls, resulting in good overall structural stability. Furthermore, receiving grooves 111 are provided on both sides, which reduces the space occupied by the drive assembly 140.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator 100 further includes a mounting bracket 160 fixedly installed on the side wall of the cabinet 110. The fixed slide rail 131 and the drive assembly 140 can both be fixedly connected to the mounting bracket 160. The movable slide rail can also be installed on the mounting bracket 160. The fixed slide rail 131 can be integrally formed with the mounting bracket 160, or it can be connected to the mounting bracket 160 by fasteners such as bolts.

[0035] During the manufacturing process of refrigerator 100, the fixed slide rail 131, the movable slide rail and the mounting bracket 160 can be pre-assembled into one unit. Then, the drive assembly 140 is installed on the mounting bracket 160. Finally, the mounting bracket 160 is installed in the predetermined position inside the refrigerator body 110 to complete the installation. The installation process is quick and convenient.

[0036] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the mounting bracket 160 includes a slide rail bracket 161 and a drive bracket 162 extending from the slide rail bracket 161. The drive bracket 162 can cover at least a portion of the receiving groove 111, and the drive assembly 140 can be fixedly connected to the drive bracket 162 and is at least partially located between the drive bracket 162 and the side wall of the housing 110.

[0037] In this embodiment, the drive assembly 140 may include a drive housing 141, a motor 143 and a transmission mechanism that can be installed inside the drive housing 141, and a drive gear 142 that can be located outside the drive housing 141. The drive housing 141 and the drive gear 142 may be located on both sides of the drive bracket 162, and the drive housing 141 may be located between the drive bracket 162 and the side wall of the housing 110, and at least partially placed within the receiving groove 111.

[0038] The drive bracket 162 can completely cover the opening of the receiving groove 111, or cover most of the opening of the receiving groove 111. The drive bracket 162 can be provided with a shaft hole. The slide rail bracket 161 can be provided with a screw hole and connected to the side wall of the housing 110 by screws. The drive housing 141 can be connected to the drive bracket 162 by screws. The connecting shaft between the transmission mechanism and the drive gear 142 can pass through the shaft hole of the slide rail bracket 161. The drive gear 142 directly meshes with the rack 134 of the first movable slide rail 132, driving the first movable slide rail 132 to move.

[0039] Thus, by mounting the slide rail assembly 130 and the drive assembly 140 simultaneously using the mounting bracket 160, the mounting bracket 160 provides an installation position for the drive assembly 140, which can reduce the number of screw holes on the housing 110 and facilitate assembly, resulting in a simple and compact overall structure.

[0040] In one embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator 100 further includes a storage device mounting bracket 170, which is fixedly connected to the second movable slide rail 133. The storage device is fixedly connected to the storage device mounting bracket 170, and a synchronous transmission structure 150 is located between the storage device mounting bracket 170 and the side wall of the refrigerator body 110. In this embodiment, the synchronous transmission structure 150 may be located between the storage device mounting bracket 170 and the mounting bracket 160. The storage device mounting bracket 170 is used to install the storage device and may cover the slide rail assembly 130. Users can remove the storage device from the storage device mounting bracket 170 for cleaning, and the storage device mounting bracket 170 may cover the internal structure, reducing the exposure of internal components of the refrigerator 100.

[0041] Further, see Figures 5 to 9 In one embodiment of the present invention, the transmission mechanism includes a clutch mechanism. The input end of the clutch mechanism is connected to the motor 143, and the output end is connected to the drive gear 142. When the clutch mechanism is in the open state, the transmission between the motor and the door or storage device can be disconnected, and the user can manually open and close the door or storage device. In this embodiment, the transmission between the motor and the slide rail assembly can be disconnected. When the clutch mechanism is in the closed state, the motor is connected to the door or storage device. In this embodiment, the motor is connected to the slide rail assembly.

[0042] In this embodiment, the motor 143 can drive the clutch mechanism to open or close. When the clutch mechanism is in the open state, it disconnects the transmission between the motor 143 and the slide rail assembly 130, allowing the user to manually push or pull the storage device without obstruction. When the clutch mechanism is in the closed state, the motor 143 is connected to the slide rail assembly 130, allowing the motor 143 to directly drive the slide rail assembly 130 to move, thereby opening or closing the storage device. However, due to the self-locking function of the motor 143, it is often difficult for the user to manually push or pull the storage device.

[0043] The refrigerator 100 may also include a control module, which can be used to receive signals to open or close the storage device. The refrigerator 100 may be equipped with an input module, such as a display screen or a voice input module, allowing the user to input commands to open or close the storage device. Alternatively, a Hall effect sensor can be installed to detect the pulse signal of the motor 143 to determine whether the user intends to open or close the storage device, and then generate an open or close signal accordingly.

[0044] When the storage device is opened, the opening can end when it reaches a preset position, and the motor 143 can be braked. Alternatively, the opening can end when other signals are received, and the motor 143 can be braked.

[0045] The storage device of the refrigerator 100 can be integrated with the door. The slide rail assembly 130 can simultaneously drive the storage device and the door to move. A door closing detection module can also be installed on the refrigerator 100. The door closing detection module can be a pressure sensor. When it detects that the refrigerator 100 door is closed, it can send a closing end signal to control the motor 143 to brake.

[0046] The control module can be used to control the motor 143 to drive the clutch mechanism to open when the storage device is closed or opened.

[0047] In this embodiment, when a signal indicating the end of opening or closing of the storage device is received, the motor 143 can be braked first, and then the motor 143 can be rotated in the opposite direction to drive the clutch mechanism to open.

[0048] Thus, when the storage device is in the open or closed position, the clutch mechanism is in the open state, allowing the user to manually operate the storage device at will. Even if a power failure occurs after the storage device is opened or closed, the storage device will not be locked, making it convenient for the user to operate.

[0049] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the clutch mechanism may include an input gear 181, an output gear 182, and a connecting member 183. The input gear 181 may form an input end and be driven by the motor 143, and the output gear 182 may form an output end and be driven by the drive gear 142. The output gear 182 may also be directly formed as the drive gear 142. The output gear 182 may be an integral structure with the gear directly mounted, or it may be a separate structure with the gear fixedly connected.

[0050] The input gear 181 can have a linked position and a disengaged position 1845 relative to the connecting member 183. When the input gear 181 is in the disengaged position 1845 relative to the connecting member 183, the clutch mechanism is open, and the connecting member 183 disconnects the transmission between the input gear 181 and the output gear 182. When the input gear 181 is in the linked position relative to the connecting member 183, rotating the input gear 181 toward the disengaged position 1845 can switch to the disengaged position 1845. When the motor 143 drives the input gear 181 to rotate toward the disengaged position 1845, the input gear 181 will not drive the connecting member 183 and the output gear 182 to rotate synchronously. If the input gear 181 rotates in a direction away from the disengaged position 1845, the input gear 181 can drive the connecting member 183 and the output gear 182 to rotate synchronously, thereby driving the storage device to open or close.

[0051] In this embodiment, the control module is used to: when receiving an open or closed signal from the slide rail assembly, control the motor 143 to drive the input gear 181 to rotate away from the clutch position 1845. At this time, the motor 143 can first drive the input gear 181 to rotate relative to the connecting member 183 to switch from the clutch position 1845 to the linkage position. The motor 143 continues to run, thereby driving the connecting member 183 and the output gear 182 to rotate synchronously. When receiving an open or closed signal from the slide rail assembly, the control module can brake the motor 143 and control the motor 143 to reverse, driving the input gear 181 to switch to the clutch position 1845. At this time, the user can manually operate the storage device.

[0052] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the linkage position may include a first linkage position 1843 and a second linkage position 1844, and the clutch position 1845 may be located between the first linkage position 1843 and the second linkage position 1844. When the input gear 181 is in the first linkage position 1843 relative to the connecting member 183, the motor 143 rotates forward to drive the input gear 181 to rotate along a first direction, thereby causing the output gear 182 to rotate to open the storage device. At this time, the motor 143 rotates in reverse to drive the input gear 181 to rotate along a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby causing the input gear 181 to move sequentially to the clutch position 1845 and the second linkage position 1844. When the input gear 181 is in the second linkage position 1844 relative to the connecting member 183, the motor 143 rotates in reverse to drive the input gear 181 to rotate along the second direction, thereby causing the output gear 182 to rotate to close the storage device. The motor 143 rotates forward to drive the input gear 181 to rotate along the first direction, thereby causing the input gear 181 to move sequentially to the clutch position 1845 and the first linkage position 1843.

[0053] In one embodiment of the present invention, the control module is configured to: when receiving a storage device open signal, control the motor 143 to rotate forward to drive the input gear 181 to rotate in a first direction; when receiving a storage device open stop signal, control the motor 143 to rotate in reverse to drive the input gear 181 to rotate relative to the connector 183 in a second direction to the clutch position 1845; when receiving a storage device close signal, control the motor 143 to rotate in reverse to drive the input gear 181 to rotate in the second direction; when receiving a storage device close end signal, control the motor 143 to rotate forward to drive the input gear 181 to rotate relative to the connector 183 in the first direction from the second linkage position 1844 to the clutch position 1845.

[0054] In this embodiment, during the opening of the storage device driven by the motor 143, the input gear 181 can be in the first linkage position 1843 relative to the connecting member 183. Upon receiving an opening end signal, the motor 143 can be controlled to reverse, driving the input gear 181 to switch to the clutch position 1845. When the input gear 181 moves to the clutch position 1845 along the second direction, the motor 143 can be controlled to stop. At this time, the clutch mechanism is in the open state, and the user can manually operate the storage device. Upon receiving a closing signal for the storage device, the control module can control the motor 143 to continue reversing, driving the input gear 181 to continue rotating along the second direction. The input gear 181 first rotates relative to the connecting member 183 to the first linkage position 1843, and then the motor 143 continues to reverse, and the input gear 181 continues to rotate along the second direction, simultaneously driving the connecting member 183 and the output gear 182 to rotate, thereby closing the storage device. When the storage device is closed, after the control motor 143 has finished braking, the control motor 143 can be rotated forward again, driving the input gear 181 to move along the first direction to the clutch position 1845 and then stop. When the storage device is opened again, the control motor 143 rotates forward, first driving the input gear 181 to the first linkage position 1843, and then driving the input gear 181, the connecting piece 183 and the output gear 182 to rotate synchronously, driving the storage device to open.

[0055] Thus, by controlling the motor 143 to rotate forward or reverse, the input gear 181 can be driven to change positions relative to the connecting member 183, thereby opening and closing the clutch mechanism through the motor 143 and driving the storage device to open or close. The overall structure is simple and can meet a variety of needs.

[0056] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the clutch mechanism's output gear 182, input gear 181, and connecting member 183 can be coaxially arranged. A cam track 184 is provided on the surface of the connecting member 183 opposite to the input gear 181. A clutch protrusion 1811, which cooperates with the cam track 184, is provided on the surface of the input gear 181 opposite to the connecting member 183. Rotation of the input gear 181 relative to the connecting member 183 can drive the clutch protrusion 1811 to rotate within the cam track 184. The cam track 184 may include a symmetrically arranged first cam track 1841 and second cam track 1842. The intersection of the first cam track 1841 and the second cam track 1842 forms a clutch position 1845. The two ends of the cam track 184 can form a first linkage position 1843 and a second linkage position 1844. The cam track 184 is inclined from the clutch position 1845 towards the first linkage position 1843 and the second linkage position 1844. The connector 183 may be provided with a connecting rod 1831, which may be located on the side of the connector 183 opposite to the output gear 182. The output gear 182 may have a connecting groove 1821 that mates with the connecting rod 1831. The input gear 181 drives the clutch protrusion 1811 to move within the cam track 184, which can drive the connector 183 to move axially, thereby enabling the connecting rod 1831 to engage or disengage from the connecting groove 1821.

[0057] When the input gear 181 rotates relative to the connecting member 183 from the clutch position 1845 to the linkage position, the connecting member 183 can move axially toward the output gear 182, and the connecting rod 1831 can gradually extend into the connecting groove 1821 and engage with the connecting groove 1821. When the input gear 181 moves relative to the connecting member 183 to the linkage position, the connecting rod 1831 can engage with the connecting groove 1821. When the input gear 181 rotates relative to the connecting member 183 from the linkage position to the clutch position, the connecting member 183 can move axially toward the side away from the output gear 182, and the connecting rod 1831 can gradually disengage from the connecting groove 1821. When the input gear 181 moves relative to the connecting member 183 to the clutch position 1845, the connecting rod 1831 can be completely outside the connecting groove 1821 and disengage from the connecting groove 1821.

[0058] In this embodiment, the direction in which the clutch protrusion 1811 rotates from the second linkage position 1844 to the first linkage position 1843 can be a first direction, and the direction in which the clutch protrusion 1811 rotates from the first linkage position 1843 to the second linkage position 1844 can be a second direction.

[0059] The output gear 182, connector 183, and input gear 181 can be arranged coaxially in sequence. The connector 183 can be located between the output gear 182 and the input gear 181. A spring 185 can also be provided between the connector 183 and the output gear 182. The two ends of the spring 185 can respectively abut against the connector 183 and the output gear 182. The clutch position 1845 can be closer to the output gear 182 than the first linkage position 1843 and the second linkage position 1844.

[0060] When the input gear 181 is in the clutch position 1845 relative to the connecting member 183, the spring 185 can be released, and the connecting rod 183 disengages from the connecting groove 1821. When the input gear 181 moves from the clutch position 1845 to the first linkage position or the second linkage position relative to the connecting member 183, the clutch protrusion 1811 moves along the cam track 1841 from the clutch position 1845 to the first linkage position 1843 or the second linkage position 1844, driving the connecting member 183 to move axially toward the output gear 182, and the spring 185 is compressed.

[0061] Specifically, when the input gear 181 rotates relative to the connecting member 183 in the first direction to the first linkage position 1843, the connecting rod 1831 extends into the connecting groove 1821 and engages with the connecting groove 1821, with the connecting rod 1831 at one end of the connecting groove 1821. The input gear 181 continues to rotate in the first direction, and the clutch protrusion 1811 presses against the side wall of the cam track 1841 at the first linkage position 1843, causing the connecting member 183 to rotate synchronously in the first direction. At the same time, the connecting rod 1831 presses against the groove wall of the connecting groove 1821, causing the output gear 182 to rotate synchronously in the first direction.

[0062] Similarly, when the input gear 181 rotates relative to the connecting member 183 in the second direction to the second linkage position 1844, the connecting rod 1831 extends into the connecting groove 1821 and engages with the connecting groove 1821. The connecting rod 1831 can be located at the other end of the connecting groove 1821. The input gear 181 continues to rotate in the second direction. The clutch protrusion 1811 presses against the side wall of the cam track 184 at the second linkage position 1844, causing the connecting member 183 to rotate synchronously in the second direction. At the same time, the connecting rod 1831 presses against the groove wall at the other end of the connecting groove 1821, causing the output gear 182 to rotate synchronously in the second direction.

[0063] The clutch mechanism may also include a friction wheel 186, a connecting member 183, and an input gear 181 and an output gear 182, all of which can be mounted on the shaft 1861 of the friction wheel. The shaft 1861 of the friction wheel 186 may be irregularly shaped, and the shape of the shaft hole 1831 in the connecting rod 183 may be the same as that of the shaft 1861. When the motor 143 drives the input gear 181 to move relative to the connecting member 183, the friction wheel 186 can restrict the rotation of the connecting member 183 under the drive of the input gear 181.

[0064] The present invention also provides a clutch mechanism according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the input gear can be disposed between the connecting member and the output gear. The surface of the connecting member opposite to the input gear can be provided with a cam track and a connecting rod. The input gear can be provided with an elongated hole for the connecting rod to pass through. The clutch position in the cam track is closer to the output gear than the first and second linkage positions. A spring can be disposed between the connecting member and the housing. In the clutch position, the spring is compressed, the connecting rod disengages from the connecting groove, and the transmission between the input gear and the output gear is disconnected. When the input gear rotates from the clutch position to the first or second linkage position, the clutch protrusion moves in the cam track towards the first or second linkage position, the spring is released, and the connecting member moves axially towards the input gear, so that the connecting rod gradually inserts into the connecting groove, and the input gear can drive the output gear to move synchronously.

[0065] The clutch mechanism is simple in design and can be easily switched between open and closed states by the movement of the motor 143. When the user finishes opening or closing the storage device, the clutch mechanism can be easily and quickly opened to disconnect the transmission between the motor 143 and the slide rail assembly 130.

[0066] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the clutch mechanism further includes a photoelectric sensor 187 disposed on one side of the connector 183. When the clutch mechanism switches between the open and closed states, the photoelectric signal of the photoelectric sensor changes. In one of the clutch position 1845 and the linkage position, the connector 183 blocks the photoelectric sensor 187; in the other of the clutch position 1845 and the linkage position, the connector 183 does not block the photoelectric sensor 187. Therefore, the control module can be used to determine whether the input gear 181 has moved to the clutch position 1845 based on the photoelectric signal of the photoelectric sensor 187. When the clutch mechanism is opened, when it is detected that the input gear 181 has moved to the clutch position 1845 relative to the connector 183, the motor 143 can be controlled to brake. The braking method of the motor 143 can be energy-efficient braking.

[0067] In one embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator 100 may also be provided with a current detection module for detecting the current of the motor 143. The control module is also used to: when the motor 143 rotates forward to drive the storage device to open, if the current of the motor 143 is detected to rise, control the motor 143 to rotate in reverse to drive the input gear 181 to rotate relative to the connecting member 183 in the second direction to the clutch position 1845.

[0068] In this embodiment, if the current of motor 143 suddenly increases during the opening of the storage device, causing motor 143 to stall, it can be determined that the storage device is obstructed during operation. If it encounters an obstacle or has already reached the user's expected position, the user can manually stop the storage device from moving further. At this time, an opening end signal can be issued to control motor 143 to brake and reverse, driving input gear 181 to rotate relative to connecting member 183 to the clutch position 1845 to open the clutch mechanism, disconnecting the transmission between input gear 181 and output gear 182, so that the user can manually operate the storage device.

[0069] In another embodiment of the present invention, the opening and closing direction of the storage device can be determined according to the pulse signal of the motor 143. The control module is also used to: when the motor 143 rotates forward to drive the storage device to open, obtain the pulse signal of the motor 143; if the pulse signal of the motor 143 is not detected within a preset time period, control the motor 143 to rotate in reverse to drive the input gear 181 to rotate relative to the connecting member 183 in the second direction to the clutch position 1845.

[0070] In this embodiment, if the period of the normal pulse signal is T, the preset duration can be 0.6-2T. If no change in the pulse signal is detected within the preset duration, it can be determined that the storage device has encountered an obstacle or the user has manually blocked the operation of the storage device. At this time, a storage device opening end signal can be issued to control the clutch mechanism to open.

[0071] Thus, during the opening of the storage device, the system can automatically determine whether the storage device is obstructed during the opening process based on the changes in the current or pulse signal of the motor 143. When it is determined that the storage device is obstructed, the system controls the motor 143 to brake and open the clutch mechanism.

[0072] In one embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator 100 further includes an energy storage module and a power supply detection device. The energy storage module can be a battery, which is used to store electricity and is electrically connected to the motor 143. The power supply detection device can be used to detect whether the power supply signal of the refrigerator 100 is abnormal; the control module is also used to: when the power supply detection device detects an abnormal power supply signal, control the energy storage module to supply power to the drive assembly and control the motor 143 to drive the clutch mechanism to open. In this embodiment, the motor can drive the clutch mechanism to open or close, and when the power supply detection device detects an abnormal power supply signal, it can supply power to the motor to drive the clutch mechanism to open.

[0073] In this embodiment, during the normal operation of the refrigerator 100, the energy storage module can be fully charged. When an abnormal power supply signal is detected, power can be supplied to the motor 143 through the energy storage module. At this time, if the motor 143 is running, the motor 143 can be braked first, and then the motor 143 can be rotated in the opposite direction to drive the clutch mechanism to open.

[0074] In this way, even if a power supply abnormality occurs during the use of the refrigerator 100, the drive component 140 will not remain in the clutch-off state, allowing the user to continue manual operation.

[0075] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the power supply detection device is used to detect the voltage of the power supply of the refrigerator 100. If the power supply voltage is less than a first preset value, a power supply abnormality signal is issued.

[0076] In this embodiment, the power supply detection device directly detects the voltage of the power supply to the refrigerator 100, such as the mains power. When the voltage drops to a preset value, such as 80% of the normal voltage, it sends a power supply abnormality signal and controls the energy storage module to supply power to the motor 143.

[0077] In another embodiment of the present invention, the refrigerator 100 may further include a DC power supply module, which is used to convert the AC power supply of the refrigerator 100 to DC power and supply it to the drive components, specifically to the motor 143. The DC power supply module may be integrated on the control board of the motor 143 or it may be a separate module. The power supply detection device can be used to detect the voltage at the power supply terminal of the DC power supply module. If the voltage at the power supply terminal is less than a second preset value, a power supply abnormality signal is issued.

[0078] In this way, it is possible to determine whether the power supply signal of the refrigerator 100 is abnormal by detecting changes in voltage.

[0079] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, when the storage device is received with an open end signal or a close end signal, the motor 143 is controlled to drive the clutch mechanism to open. Therefore, the control module can be used to: when a power supply abnormality signal is received, if the motor 143 is in operation, control the power storage module to supply power to the motor 143.

[0080] In this embodiment, when a power supply abnormality signal is received, if the motor 143 is running, the slide rail assembly is in motion, the storage device may be opening or closing, and the clutch mechanism is in the closed state. Therefore, the power storage module can be controlled to supply power to the motor 143. However, if the motor 143 is closed, the storage device is either closed or already open. Since the control module will open the clutch mechanism after the storage device has finished closing or opening, allowing for manual operation by the user, there is no need to control the power storage module to supply power to the motor 143 in this case.

[0081] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0082] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent embodiments or modifications made without departing from the spirit of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A refrigerator, comprising: A housing, a storage device installed inside the housing, a door for opening and closing the housing, and a drive assembly for driving the storage device or the door; The refrigerator is characterized in that the drive assembly includes a motor and a clutch mechanism driven by the motor; when the clutch mechanism is in the open state, the clutch mechanism disconnects the transmission between the motor and the door or the storage device; when the clutch mechanism is in the closed state, the motor is driven by the door or the storage device; the refrigerator further includes: An energy storage module, which is used to store electricity and is electrically connected to the motor; A power supply detection device is used to detect whether the power supply signal of the refrigerator is abnormal; The control module is used to control the energy storage module to supply power to the drive assembly to control the clutch mechanism to open when the power supply detection device detects an abnormal power supply signal. The box is equipped with a slide rail assembly, the storage device or the door is connected to the slide rail assembly, the motor is used to drive the slide rail assembly to move, and the motor can drive the clutch mechanism to open or close; The control module is used to: when a power supply abnormality signal is received, if the drive component is driving the slide rail component to move, control the energy storage module to supply power to the motor, and control the motor to brake for a preset time before driving the clutch mechanism to open.

2. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply detection device is used to detect the power supply voltage of the refrigerator. If the power supply voltage is less than a first preset value, a power supply abnormality signal is issued.

3. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a DC power supply module, which converts the AC power from the refrigerator's power supply into DC power and supplies it to the drive assembly; The power supply detection device is used to: detect the voltage at the power supply terminal of the DC power supply module; if the voltage at the power supply terminal is less than a second preset value, then issue a power supply abnormality signal.

4. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control module is also used to: control the clutch mechanism to open when it receives an open end signal or a close end signal from the slide rail assembly.

5. The refrigerator as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The control module is also used to: when receiving an open or closed signal from the slide rail assembly, control the motor to drive the clutch mechanism to close, and drive the storage device to open or close.

6. The refrigerator as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The control module is used to: when a power supply abnormality signal is received, if the motor is in operation, control the energy storage module to supply power to the motor.

7. The refrigerator as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The clutch mechanism includes an input gear, an output gear, and a connecting member. The connecting member has a linkage position and a clutch position. When the clutch mechanism is in the open state, the input gear is in the clutch position, and the connecting member disconnects the connection between the input gear and the output gear. When the clutch mechanism is in the closed state, the input gear is in the linkage position. The motor drives the input gear to rotate away from the clutch position, causing the connecting member and the output gear to rotate synchronously. The motor driving the input gear to rotate towards the clutch position can move the input gear to the clutch position.

8. The refrigerator as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The linkage positions include a first linkage position and a second linkage position, and the clutch position is located between the first linkage position and the second linkage position. When the input gear is in the first linkage position, the forward rotation of the motor can drive the output gear to rotate to open the door or storage device. The reverse rotation of the motor can drive the input gear to rotate sequentially to the clutch position and the second linkage position. When the input gear is in the second linkage position, the reverse rotation of the motor can drive the output gear to rotate to close the door or storage device. The forward rotation of the motor can drive the input gear to rotate sequentially to the clutch position and the first linkage position.

9. The refrigerator as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The connecting member has a cam track on its surface opposite to the input gear. The input gear has a clutch protrusion that engages with the cam track. The cam track includes a first cam track and a second cam track arranged symmetrically. The intersection of the first cam track and the second cam track forms the clutch position. The two ends of the cam track form the first linkage position and the second linkage position, respectively. The cam track is inclined from the clutch position toward the first linkage position and the second linkage position. The connecting member also has a connecting rod. The output gear has a connecting groove that engages with the connecting rod. The rotation of the input gear drives the clutch protrusion to move within the cam track, driving the connecting member to move axially so that the connecting rod engages or disengages from the connecting groove. When the clutch protrusion is in the clutch position, the connecting rod disengages from the connecting groove; when the clutch protrusion is in the linkage position, the connecting rod engages with the connecting groove.

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