Handle assembly for refrigerator and refrigerator

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of refrigeration equipment, and discloses a handle assembly for a refrigerator and the refrigerator. The handle assembly comprises a buckle box; the handle is arranged on the clasping box, is movably connected with the clasping box and can move between a hidden position in the clasping box and a protruding position protruding out of the clasping box relative to the clasping box; the push rod assembly is arranged on the buckle box and can move between the stretching position where the buckle box stretches out and the retracting position where the buckle box retracts, the push rod assembly is matched with the handle, and when the handle moves relative to the buckle box, the push rod assembly is driven to move between the stretching position and the retracting position; and the hovering mechanism is matched with the handle and used for enabling the handle to be in the hovering position. The force used in the initial opening stage of the handle can be reduced, and when large acting force needs to be applied to the handle, the handle is located at the hovering position, and the acting force is easy to apply.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of refrigeration equipment, and in particular to a handle assembly for a refrigerator and a refrigerator. Background Art

[0002] At present, the main way to open the door of the existing refrigerator is to open the door through a handle, and most of the handles are protruding and fixed on the side of the door body or integrated with the door frame. However, the protruding handle will increase the space occupied by the refrigerator on the one hand, and on the other hand, children may be injured if they collide with the handle, which poses a safety hazard.

[0003] In order to solve the above problems existing in the protruding handle, a power-assisted door handle is disclosed in the related art, comprising: a hidden handle, a push rod, a spring, and a handle bracket. The hidden handle is installed on the outer side of the frame of the door body and embedded in the notch of the frame. One end of the hidden handle extending out of the frame bears the force applied when opening the door as the force-bearing end, and the other end abuts against the first end of the push rod, and the end of the hidden handle is also connected to the handle bracket arranged next to the end. The handle bracket is a movable rotating shaft of the hidden handle, and the hidden handle can rotate around the handle bracket. The first end of the push rod is provided with a boss, one end of the spring is sleeved on the boss, the other end of the spring abuts against the spring seat, and the second end of the push rod abuts against the refrigerator body. When the refrigerator door is opened, the user applies force to the force-bearing end of the hidden handle, the hidden handle rotates, and the other end drives the push rod to push toward the box body, pushing the door body away from the refrigerator box body; after the force is cancelled, the push rod and the hidden handle are brought back to the starting position by the spring.

[0004] In the process of implementing the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is found that there are at least the following problems in the related art:

[0005] Although the related art solves the problems of the protruding handle by using a hidden handle, the hidden handle protrudes less at the initial stage of rotation, and the handle needs to drive the top rod to move, which makes it difficult to open the handle at the initial stage.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the above background technology section is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of the present application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute the prior art known to ordinary technicians in the field. Summary of the invention

[0007] In order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. The summary is not an extensive review, nor is it intended to identify key / critical components or delineate the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather serves as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0008] The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a handle assembly for a refrigerator and a refrigerator to solve the problem of difficulty in initially opening the handle in the related art.

[0009] According to a first aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a handle assembly for a refrigerator, comprising: a handle box; a handle, disposed in the handle box, the handle being movably connected to the handle box and being able to move relative to the handle box between a hidden position located inside the handle box and a protruding position protruding from the handle box; a push rod assembly, disposed in the handle box and being able to move between an extended position extending from the handle box and a retracted position retracting from the handle box, the push rod assembly cooperating with the handle, and when the handle moves relative to the handle box, the push rod assembly is driven to move between the extended position and the retracted position; a hovering mechanism, cooperating with the handle, and being used to place the handle in a hovering position, wherein when the handle is in the hovering position, the push rod assembly is in a retracted position, wherein the hovering position is between the hidden position and the protruding position.

[0010] Optionally, the handle box is provided with a hovering portion, and the hovering mechanism moves relative to the hovering portion so that the hovering mechanism and the hovering portion are matched or separated, wherein when the hovering mechanism and the hovering portion are matched, the handle is in a hovering position.

[0011] Optionally, the handle assembly also includes: a reset member, located between the handle and the handle box, when the handle is opened, the reset member undergoes elastic deformation; in the hovering position, the force transmitted to the hovering mechanism by the reset member is smaller than the force exerted by the hovering part on the hovering mechanism, so that the hovering mechanism cooperates with the hovering part.

[0012] Optionally, the hovering mechanism abuts against the handle box, and under the action of the handle, the hovering mechanism moves circumferentially around the hovering portion.

[0013] Optionally, the hovering portion is arranged on the side wall of the handle box; the hovering mechanism includes: a slider, which cooperates with the handle; and a push rod, which is arranged on the side of the slider facing the hovering portion; when the handle moves relative to the handle box, the slider is driven to move, and the slider drives the push rod to move relative to the hovering portion to cooperate with or separate from the hovering portion.

[0014] Optionally, the handle and the handle box are rotatably connected via a hinge shaft, and the handle assembly further includes: a first elastic member connected between the handle and the slider, and when the handle rotates relative to the handle box, the handle drives the first elastic member to move, thereby driving the slider to move relative to the handle box; the hovering mechanism further includes: a second elastic member supported between the slider and the push rod, and used to drive the push rod to move toward the hovering part; wherein, the angle between the deformation direction of the second elastic member and the hinge shaft is smaller than the angle between the deformation direction of the first elastic member and the hinge shaft.

[0015] Optionally, the handle assembly also includes a connecting rod assembly, which is arranged between the handle and the push rod assembly, and the handle drives the push rod assembly to move between an extended position and a retracted position through the connecting rod assembly; the handle box includes: a first side wall; a second side wall, which is arranged opposite to the first side wall, the hovering portion is arranged on the first side wall, and the connecting rod assembly is arranged on the second side wall.

[0016] Optionally, the second side wall is provided with an installation channel, and the connecting rod assembly is arranged in the installation channel, and the channel wall of the installation channel includes: a first channel wall, when the handle is in the hidden position and the hovering position, the connecting rod assembly abuts against the first channel wall; a second channel wall, connected to the first channel wall and arranged opposite to the first channel wall, when the handle is in the protruding position, the connecting rod assembly abuts against the second channel wall.

[0017] Optionally, the handle includes: a first handle portion; a second handle portion, which is connected to the first handle portion and is in a protruding position, the first handle portion protrudes outward from the handle box, and the second handle portion extends inward into the handle box, and the hovering mechanism and the push rod assembly are both coordinated with the second handle portion.

[0018] According to a second aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a refrigerator is provided, comprising: a cabinet body; a door body, which is openable and closable on the cabinet body, and the door body is provided with a recess; a handle assembly for a refrigerator as described in any one of the above embodiments, wherein the handle box is provided in the recess, and in the extended position, the push rod assembly abuts against the cabinet body.

[0019] The handle assembly for a refrigerator and the refrigerator provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0020] The handle also has a hovering position between the hidden position and the protruding position, and in the hovering position, the push rod assembly is still in the retracted position, that is, from the hidden position to the hovering position, the handle does not need to drive the push rod assembly to move, so that the force required to open the handle is small, and when the handle continues to move from the hovering position toward the open position, more parts of the handle protrude from the handle box, and the handle is easier to operate. At this time, the handle drives the push rod assembly to move from the retracted position to the extended position, thereby realizing the opening of the refrigerator door.

[0021] Therefore, the present application can reduce the force used in the initial stage of opening the handle, and when a larger force needs to be applied to the handle, the handle is already in a suspended position, making it easy to apply the force.

[0022] The above general description and the following description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not intended to limit the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] One or more embodiments are exemplarily described by corresponding drawings, which do not limit the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements, and the drawings do not constitute a scale limitation, and wherein:

[0024] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a cabinet door provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when a handle is in a hidden position;

[0025] Figure 2is a structural schematic diagram of a handle assembly provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when the handle is in a hidden position from a first perspective;

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Sectional view along AA direction;

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Cross-sectional view along the BB direction;

[0028] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of a handle assembly provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when the handle is in a hidden position from a second viewing angle;

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Sectional view along CC direction;

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 Cross-sectional view along the DD direction;

[0031] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of a handle assembly provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when the handle is in a hovering position from a first perspective;

[0032] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 Sectional view along EE direction;

[0033] Fig.10 yes Figure 8 Cross-sectional view along the FF axis;

[0034] Fig.11 is a structural schematic diagram of a handle assembly provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when the handle is in a hovering position from a second viewing angle;

[0035] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 Sectional view along the GG axis;

[0036] Fig.13 yes Fig.11 Cross-sectional view along the mid-HH direction;

[0037] Fig.14 is a structural schematic diagram of a handle assembly provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when the handle is in a protruding position from a first perspective;

[0038] Fig.15 yes Fig.14 Sectional view along the II axis;

[0039] Fig.16 yes Fig.14 Sectional view along the JJ axis;

[0040] Fig.17 is a structural schematic diagram of a handle assembly provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure when the handle is in a protruding position from a second viewing angle;

[0041] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 Sectional view along the KK axis;

[0042] Fig.19 yes Fig.17 Sectional view along LL direction;

[0043] Fig. 20 is a structural schematic diagram of a hovering mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Fig.21 It is a schematic diagram of the partial structure of a hand grip box provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Reference numerals:

[0046] 10. Handle box; 101. Suspension portion; 102. Bottom wall of the handle box; 103. Side wall of the handle box; 1031. First side wall; 1032. Second side wall; 104. Installation channel; 1041. First channel wall; 1042. Second channel wall; 105. Slide; 106. Positioning groove; 107. Limiting groove; 1071. First groove section; 1072. Second groove section; 108. Limiting plate; 109. Inner box body; 110. Outer box body;

[0047] 20. handle; 201. first handle portion; 202. second handle portion; 203. hinge axis;

[0048] 30. Push rod assembly;

[0049] 40. connecting rod assembly; 401. first connecting rod; 4011. first end; 4012. second end; 402. second connecting rod; 4021. third end; 4022. fourth end; 403. first rotating shaft; 404. second rotating shaft;

[0050] 50, suspension mechanism; 501, slider; 5011, first surface; 5012, matching portion; 5013, second surface; 5014, assembly channel; 502, ejector rod; 503, rear plate;

[0051] 60. a first elastic member;

[0052] 70. A second elastic member;

[0053] 80, limiting protrusion; 801, first circumferential surface; 8011, first sub-surface; 8012, second sub-surface; 8013, bend; 802, second circumferential surface; 803, bend; 804, third circumferential surface;

[0054] 90. Reset component;

[0055] 100. Door body. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] In order to be able to understand the features and technical contents of the embodiments of the present disclosure in more detail, the implementation of the embodiments of the present disclosure is described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The attached drawings are for reference only and are not used to limit the embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following technical description, for the convenience of explanation, a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments is provided through multiple details. However, one or more embodiments can still be implemented without these details. In other cases, to simplify the drawings, well-known structures and devices can be simplified for display.

[0057] The terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of the disclosed embodiments and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that the terms used in this way can be interchanged where appropriate for the disclosed embodiments described herein. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0058] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the terms "upper", "lower", "inside", "middle", "outside", "front", "back" and the like indicate directions or positional relationships based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are mainly intended to better describe the embodiments of the present disclosure and their embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements or components to have a specific direction, or to be constructed and operated in a specific direction. Moreover, in addition to being used to indicate directions or positional relationships, some of the above terms may also be used to indicate other meanings. For example, the term "upper" may also be used to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship in certain circumstances. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of these terms in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0059] In addition, the terms "disposed", "connected", and "fixed" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connected" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection, or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be an internal connection between two devices, elements, or components. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0060] Unless otherwise stated, the term "plurality" means two or more.

[0061] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B indicates: A or B.

[0062] The term "and / or" is a description of the association relationship between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or, A and B.

[0063] It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined with each other.

[0064] Combination Figure 1-21 As shown, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a handle assembly for a refrigerator.

[0065] The refrigerator includes a cabinet body and a door body 100 which can be opened and closed on the cabinet body. The door body 100 is provided with a recess; the recess can be located on the front side of the door body 100 or on the side of the door body 100. The front side refers to the side facing the refrigerator when the user uses the refrigerator.

[0066] The handle assembly includes a handle box 10 , a handle 20 , a push rod assembly 30 and a suspension mechanism 50 .

[0067] The handle 20 is disposed in the recess and is movably connected to the handle box 10 and can move relative to the handle box between a hidden position in the handle box and a protruding position protruding from the handle box. Figure 4 The middle handle is in a hidden position, e.g. Fig.10 The middle handle is in the hovering position, e.g. Fig.16 push rod assembly 30 is provided in the buckle box and can be extended to the buckle box and the buckle box retracted position between the extended position, such as Figure 6 and 12 The middle push rod assembly is in the retracted position, such as Fig.18 The middle push rod assembly is in the extended position, and the push rod assembly 30 cooperates with the handle. When the handle moves relative to the handle box, the push rod assembly 30 is driven to move between the extended position and the retracted position; the hovering mechanism 50 cooperates with the handle to make the handle in the hovering position, wherein, when the handle is in the hovering position, the push rod assembly 30 is in the retracted position, wherein the hovering position is between the hidden position and the protruding position.

[0068] From the retracted position to the extended position, the push rod assembly 30 moves toward the cabinet body and abuts against the cabinet body to push the door body 100 away from the cabinet body to achieve door opening assistance.

[0069] The door opening process can be divided into two processes. The first process is when the handle moves from a hidden position to a hovering position, which is the initial stage of the handle opening and the door body 100 is not opened. The second process is when the handle moves from a hovering position to a protruding position, which is the stage of the door body 100 opening.

[0070] In the first process, the handle is moved from a hidden position (such as Figures 2 to 7 ) to the hover position (such as Figures 8 to 13 ), at this time, the handle gradually protrudes from the handle box, but the push rod assembly 30 is in a retracted position, that is, the push rod assembly 30 does not move. Therefore, the user only needs to overcome the force of the movement of the handle relative to the handle box to open the door, and the required force is relatively small.

[0071] In the second stage, the handle moves from the hovering position to the protruding position (eg Figures 14 to 19 ), at this time, more of the handle protrudes from the handle box, and the push rod assembly 30 moves from the retracted position to the extended position under the drive of the handle. During the extension process, the push rod assembly 30 abuts against the cabinet body to push the door body 100 open to open the door. At this stage, the handle needs to overcome the force of the handle relative to the handle box and provide the force to drive the push rod assembly 30 to extend. Therefore, the required force is relatively large, but at this time, the handle extends more from the handle box, so the area for holding the handle is larger, and the handle is easy to operate.

[0072] Alternatively, if Figure 7 ,like Fig.12 and Fig.18 As shown, the handle assembly further includes a connecting rod assembly 40 , which is disposed between the handle and the push rod assembly 30 . The handle drives the push rod assembly 30 to move between the extended position and the retracted position through the connecting rod assembly 40 .

[0073] The side wall 103 of the handle box includes a first side wall 1031 and a second side wall 1032 .

[0074] The second side wall 1032 is disposed opposite to the first side wall 1031 . The suspension portion 101 is disposed on the first side wall 1031 , and the connecting rod assembly 40 is disposed on the second side wall 1032 .

[0075] This arrangement ensures that the overall handle assembly occupies little space and has a compact structure.

[0076] like Figure 7 ,like Fig.12 and Fig.18As shown, the connecting rod assembly 40 includes a first connecting rod 401 and a second connecting rod 402. The first connecting rod 401 is movably arranged on the buckle box, including a first end 4011 and a second end 4012, and the first end 4011 is matched with the handle; the second connecting rod 402 is movably arranged on the buckle box, including a third end 4021 and a fourth end 4022, and the third end 4021 is in contact with the second end 4012, and the push rod assembly 30 is matched with the fourth end 4022; when the handle rotates toward the protruding position relative to the buckle box, the first connecting rod 401 is driven to move, and the first connecting rod 401 drives the second connecting rod 402 to move, so as to drive the push rod assembly 30 to move toward the extended position.

[0077] The first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402 are designed, and the force of the handle is transmitted to the push rod assembly 30 through the first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402 in sequence. Compared with designing only one connecting rod, the first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402 are designed in the present application. When the movement stroke of the push rod assembly 30 is the same, the movement stroke of the first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402 can be reduced, thereby reducing the space occupied by the handle assembly.

[0078] Optionally, the first connecting rod 401 is rotatably connected to the handle box via the first rotating shaft 403, and the first end 4011 and the second end 4012 are respectively located on opposite sides of the first rotating shaft 403, so that when the handle is pressed down to abut the first end 4011, the first end 4011 is driven to move downward (toward the bottom wall 102 of the handle box) and the second end 4012 is driven to move upward (toward the opening of the handle box).

[0079] Optionally, the second connecting rod 402 is rotatably connected to the handle box via the second rotating shaft 404, and the third end 4021 and the fourth end 4022 are respectively located on opposite sides of the second rotating shaft 404, so that when the second end 4012 drives the third end 4021 to move upward, the fourth end 4022 moves downward, thereby driving the push rod assembly 30 to move downward, that is, toward the cabinet.

[0080] Optionally, the first rotation axis 403 and the second rotation axis 404 are parallel.

[0081] In this solution, when the first connecting rod 401 rotates clockwise, the second connecting rod 402 rotates counterclockwise, and the rotations of the two are in the same plane, thereby further reducing the space occupied by the handle assembly.

[0082] Optionally, the first rotating shaft 403 and the second rotating shaft 404 are arranged in sequence along the direction from the handle to the push rod assembly 30, so that the handle transmits the force to the push rod assembly 30 through the first end 4011, the second end 4012, the third end 4021, and the fourth end 4022 in sequence.

[0083] Optionally, the handle includes a first handle portion 201 and a second handle portion 202, the second handle portion 202 is connected to the first handle portion 201 and is in a protruding position, the first handle portion 201 protrudes outward from the handle box, and the second handle portion 202 extends inward into the handle box.

[0084] When the handle moves from the hidden position toward the protruding position, the second handle portion 202 extends inward into the handle box, driving the first end portion 4011 to move toward the bottom wall 102 of the handle box, driving the second end portion 4012 to move toward the opening of the handle box, and driving the third end portion 4021 to move toward the opening of the handle box.

[0085] The first rotating shaft 403 is located on the side of the second rotating shaft 404 facing the bottom wall 102 of the handle box. When the movement stroke of the second connecting rod 402 is constant, the rotation amplitude of the first connecting rod 401 can be reduced, and the space occupied by the first connecting rod 401 can be reduced, thereby reducing the volume of the entire handle assembly.

[0086] Optionally, the third end 4021 is located on the side of the opening of the second end 4012 toward the handle box, so that when the handle moves from the hidden position toward the protruding position, the second end 4012 and the third end 4021 move in the same direction, thereby driving the fourth end 4022 and the push rod assembly 30 to move toward the direction close to the cabinet.

[0087] Optionally, the first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402 are tilted. Specifically, when the handle is in the hidden position, along the direction from the first end 4011 to the second end 4012, the second end 4012 is tilted toward the bottom wall 102 close to the handle box. When the handle is in the hidden position, along the direction from the third end 4021 to the fourth end 4022, the fourth end 4022 is tilted toward the bottom wall 102 away from the handle box.

[0088] When the movement stroke of the push rod assembly 30 is constant, the first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402 are tilted to reduce the rotation angle of the first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402 and reduce the space occupied by the first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402.

[0089] Optionally, the second side wall 1032 is provided with a mounting channel 104, and the connecting rod assembly 40 is provided in the mounting channel 104. The connecting rod assembly 40 abuts against the channel wall of the mounting channel 104 when the handle is in the hidden position and / or the connecting rod assembly 40 abuts against the channel wall of the mounting channel 104 when the handle is in the protruding position.

[0090] The connecting rod assembly 40 is limited by the channel wall of the installation channel 104 on the handle box, and there is no need to set a separate limiting component, thereby simplifying the structure of the handle assembly.

[0091] The channel wall of the installation channel 104 includes a first channel wall 1041 and a second channel wall 1042. When the handle is in the hidden position and the suspended position, Figure 7 and Fig.12 As shown, the connecting rod assembly 40 is in contact with the first channel wall 1041; the second channel wall 1042 is connected to the first channel wall 1041 and is arranged opposite to the first channel wall 1041. When the handle is in the protruding position, as shown in FIG. Fig.18 As shown, the connecting rod assembly 40 abuts against the second channel wall 1042 .

[0092] When the handle is in the hidden position, the hovering position, and any position between the hidden position and the hovering position, the first channel wall 1041 limits the connecting rod assembly 40 to prevent the connecting rod assembly 40 from moving, thereby maintaining the push rod assembly 30 in the retracted position; when the handle moves from the hovering position toward the protruding position, the connecting rod assembly 40 moves relative to the handle box, and when it moves to abut against the second channel wall 1042, the second side wall 1032 limits the connecting rod assembly 40, the connecting rod assembly 40 stops moving, and the push rod assembly 30 is in the extended position.

[0093] Optionally, when the handle is in the hidden position, one of the first link 401 and the second link 402 abuts against the channel wall of the installation channel 104, and when the handle is in the protruding position, the other of the first link 401 and the second link 402 abuts against the channel wall of the installation channel 104.

[0094] The first connecting rod 401 and the second connecting rod 402 rotate in opposite directions (one clockwise and the other counterclockwise), and the second connecting rod 402 is located on the side of the opening of the first connecting rod 401 facing the handle box. Therefore, in the hidden position and the protruding position, different connecting rods (the first connecting rod 401 or the second connecting rod 402) abut against the channel wall of the installation channel 104 to achieve the limitation of the connecting rod assembly 40, which is easier to achieve than the same connecting rod abutting against the channel wall of the installation channel 104, thereby simplifying the structure of the channel wall of the installation channel 104.

[0095] Optionally, the first connecting rod 401 is located on the side of the second connecting rod 402 away from the opening of the handle box, and the first channel wall 1041 is located on the side of the second channel wall 1042 away from the opening of the handle box. In the hidden position, the first connecting rod 401 abuts against the first channel wall 1041, and in the protruding position, the second connecting rod 402 abuts against the second channel wall 1042.

[0096] Optionally, in the hidden position, the second end 4012 abuts against the first channel wall 1041 , and in the protruding position, the third end 4021 abuts against the second channel wall 1042 .

[0097] The first connecting rod 401 is tilted, and in the hidden position, the second end 4012 is closer to the first channel wall 1041 than the first end 4011 , so the second end 4012 is designed to abut against the first channel wall 1041 .

[0098] When the handle moves toward the protruding position, the second end 4012 moves toward the second channel wall 1042, driving the third end 4021 to move the second channel wall 1042. When the third end 4021 abuts against the second channel wall 1042, the connecting rod assembly 40 stops moving, and the push rod assembly 30 moves to the extended position. Therefore, the design limits the movement of the connecting rod assembly 40 by abutting the third end 4021 against the second channel wall 1042, which is easy to achieve.

[0099] Optionally, in the hidden position, the distance between the handle and the connecting rod assembly 40 is greater than zero, that is, the handle and the connecting rod assembly 40 are not in contact, and when the handle is turned before the handle reaches the hovering position, the handle and the connecting rod assembly 40 are always in contact, the connecting rod assembly 40 is stationary, and the push rod assembly 30 maintains the retracted position. When the handle moves to the hovering position, the handle abuts against the connecting rod assembly 40, so that when moving from the hovering position to the protruding position, the handle drives the connecting rod assembly 40 to move, and the connecting rod assembly 40 drives the push rod assembly 30 to move toward the extended position.

[0100] It can be understood that, in the hidden position, the distance between the handle and the connecting rod assembly 40 can also be zero, and the handle does not have a suspended position at this time.

[0101] Optionally, the handle assembly further includes a reset component 90, which is supported between the connecting rod assembly 40 and the handle box, and the reset component 90 undergoes elastic deformation when the handle moves from the hidden position to the protruding position.

[0102] Specifically, before the handle moves from the hidden position to the suspended position, the handle does not contact the connecting rod assembly 40, the connecting rod assembly 40 does not move, and thus the reset component 90 does not elastically deform, and the push rod assembly 30 is in the retracted position. When the handle moves to the suspended position, the handle just contacts the connecting rod assembly 40. When the handle continues to move, the handle presses the connecting rod assembly 40, and the connecting rod assembly 40 drives the push rod assembly 30 to move toward the extended position, and the reset component 90 elastically deforms. When the force applied by the handle on the connecting rod assembly 40 disappears or decreases to a preset value, the reset component 90 drives the connecting rod assembly 40 to reset, and the connecting rod assembly 40 drives the push rod assembly 30 to reset.

[0103] Optionally, the connecting rod assembly 40 is movably connected to the handle box, and the connecting rod assembly 40 cooperates with the push rod assembly 30 and can move relative to the push rod assembly 30.

[0104] Compared with the fixed connection between the connecting rod assembly 40 and the push rod assembly 30, the connecting rod assembly 40 designed in the present application is capable of moving relative to the push rod assembly 30. In this way, the installation position of the connecting rod assembly 40 can be more flexible while the movement trajectory of the push rod assembly 30 remains unchanged. The movement stroke of the connecting rod assembly 40 in the movement direction of the push rod assembly 30 can also be reduced, thereby reducing the space required for the connecting rod assembly 40.

[0105] Optionally, the reset component 90 is supported between the second connecting rod 402 and the handle box, and when the handle moves from the hidden position to the protruding position, the reset component 90 is elastically deformed to drive the second connecting rod 402 to reset.

[0106] like Figure 7 As shown, in the hidden position, the first connecting rod 401 abuts against the first channel wall 1041 to limit the second end 4012 of the first connecting rod 401 from moving toward the first channel wall 1041. The reset component 90 limits the second connecting rod 402 from moving in the direction of driving the push rod assembly 30 to extend, that is, the force of the reset component 90 on the second connecting rod 402 is a force that causes the third end 4021 to move toward the second end 4012, so that the second connecting rod 402 can press the second end 4012 against the first channel wall 1041 to limit the second end 4012 from rotating in the direction away from the second channel wall 1042, so that under the joint action of the reset component 90 and the first channel wall 1041, the connecting rod assembly 40 is limited to the first extreme position, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 and Fig.12 As shown in , the handle is now in any position between the hidden position and the hovering position. Fig.18 As shown, the connecting rod assembly is located at the second extreme position, and the handle is in the protruding position.

[0107] Optionally, the second end 4012 is located on the side of the third end 4021 facing the bottom wall 102 of the handle box. The reset component 90 is supported between the third end 4021 and the handle box.

[0108] The connecting rod assembly 40 can be in the first extreme position by the combined action of the third end 4021 on the second end 4012 and the first channel wall 1041 on the second end 4012. The reset component 90 is supported between the third end 4021 and the handle box, so that the force of the reset component 90 is directly transmitted to the third end 4021, so that the force of the third end 4021 on the second end 4012 is relatively large, so that the connecting rod assembly 40 can be stably located in the first extreme position.

[0109] The connecting rod assembly 40 may also include only one connecting rod, for example, only the first connecting rod 401 or the second connecting rod 402 .

[0110] Optionally, the handle box is provided with a hovering portion 101, and the hovering mechanism 50 moves relative to the hovering portion 101 so that the hovering mechanism 50 and the hovering portion 101 are matched or separated, wherein when the hovering mechanism 50 and the hovering portion 101 are matched, the handle is in a hovering position.

[0111] When the handle moves relative to the handle box, the handle drives the hovering mechanism 50 to move relative to the hovering portion 101. When the hovering mechanism 50 cooperates with the hovering portion 101, the hovering portion 101 restricts the hovering mechanism 50 from further movement. In the absence of external force, the handle can stay in the hovering position, that is, when the force applied to the handle disappears, the handle can stay in the hovering position. When the hovering mechanism 50 is separated from the hovering portion 101, the handle moves from the hovering position toward the hidden position or the protruding position.

[0112] Optionally, the handle assembly further includes a reset member, which may be a torsion spring sleeved on the hinge shaft. The reset member is located between the handle and the handle box, and when the handle is opened, the reset member undergoes elastic deformation; in the hovering position, the force transmitted by the reset member to the hovering mechanism 50 is smaller than the force of the hovering portion 101 on the hovering mechanism 50, so that the hovering mechanism 50 cooperates with the hovering portion 101.

[0113] When the handle moves from the hidden position to the protruding position, the reset member undergoes elastic deformation, and the elastic force of the reset member due to the elastic deformation is used to drive the handle to reset. However, when the handle is in the hovering position, the elastic force transmitted to the hovering mechanism 50 is smaller than the force of the hovering part 101 on the hovering mechanism 50, so the hovering mechanism 50 cannot be driven to separate from the hovering part 101, and the hovering mechanism 50 is still matched with the hovering part 101. When no external force is applied to the handle, the handle is in the hovering position.

[0114] Optionally, the hovering mechanism 50 abuts against the handle box to prevent the hovering mechanism 50 from being separated from the handle box during movement.

[0115] Under the action of the handle, the hovering mechanism 50 moves around the circumference of the hovering portion 101 .

[0116] like Fig. 20 As shown, the hovering portion 101 has positions A, B, C and D arranged in sequence in the circumference. When the hovering mechanism 50 is at position A, the handle is in a hidden position; when the hovering mechanism 50 is at position B, the handle is in a hovering position; when the hovering mechanism 50 is at position C, the handle is in a protruding position.

[0117] When the hovering mechanism 50 passes through A, B and C in sequence, the handle moves from the hidden position to the protruding position via the hovering position. When the handle moves from C to A via D, the handle returns from the protruding position to the hidden position.

[0118] The reciprocating motion of the handle between the hidden position and the protruding position is achieved by the circumferential motion of the suspension mechanism 50 around the suspension portion 101 .

[0119] Alternatively, if Figure 4 As shown, the hovering portion 101 is disposed on the side wall 103 of the handle box; the hovering mechanism 50 includes a slider 501 and a hovering matching portion.

[0120] The slider 501 cooperates with the handle; the hovering matching portion is provided on the slider 501. When the handle moves relative to the handle box, the slider 501 is driven to move relative to the handle box. Under the drive of the slider 501, the hovering matching portion moves relative to the hovering portion 101 and is locked in the locked position (such as Fig. 9 ) and an unlocked position separated from the hovering portion 101 (as shown Figure 3 and Fig.15 shown).

[0121] like Fig. 9 As shown, when the hovering matching part is matched with the hovering part 101, the hovering part 101 locks the hovering matching part, the hovering mechanism 50 stops moving, and the handle is in the hovering position. When the hovering matching part is separated from the hovering part 101, the hovering mechanism 50 can move with the handle, and the handle moves toward the hidden position or the protruding position.

[0122] The hovering matching part includes a push rod 502. When the handle moves relative to the handle box, the slider 501 is driven to move. The slider 501 drives the push rod 502 to move relative to the hovering part 101 to match or separate from the hovering part 101.

[0123] Optionally, the push rod 502 is disposed on a side of the slider 501 facing the hovering portion 101 ; the push rod 502 can move relative to the slider 501 toward or away from the hovering portion 101 to cooperate with or separate from the hovering portion 101 .

[0124] When the top rod 502 cooperates with the hovering portion 101, the handle is in a hovering position; when the top rod 502 is separated from the hovering portion 101, the handle moves toward a hidden position or a protruding position.

[0125] One end of the handle box is open, and in a hidden position, the handle cover is arranged at the opening. The handle box also has a bottom wall 102 of the handle box and a side wall 103 of the handle box, and the side wall 103 of the handle box is connected to the bottom wall 102 of the handle box and extends along the circumference of the bottom wall 102 of the handle box.

[0126] Optionally, the handle and the handle box are rotatably connected via a hinge shaft 203 , and the first rotation shaft 403 and the second rotation shaft 404 are both perpendicular to the hinge shaft 203 .

[0127] like Figure 4 ,10 As shown in 16, the handle assembly also includes a first elastic member 60, which is connected between the handle and the slider 501. When the handle moves relative to the handle box, the handle drives the first elastic member 60 to move, thereby driving the slider 501 to move relative to the handle box; the hovering mechanism 50 also includes a second elastic member 70, which is supported between the slider 501 and the top rod 502, and is used to drive the top rod 502 to move toward the hovering portion 101.

[0128] One end of the first elastic member 60 is connected to the handle, and the other end of the first elastic member 60 is connected to the slider 501. When the handle moves relative to the handle box, the slider 501 is driven to move relative to the handle box through the first elastic member 60. When the slider 501 moves relative to the handle box, the push rod 502 moves with the slider 501 relative to the handle box, thereby realizing the movement of the push rod 502 relative to the hovering portion 101.

[0129] The handle and the slider 501 are connected via a first elastic member 60. Compared with a rigid member connection, since the first elastic member 60 can be deformed, the movement amplitude of the slider 501 can be slowed down, and then the movement amplitude of the top rod 502 can be slowed down. In this way, the size of the hovering portion 101 can be designed to be smaller, reducing the requirements on the size of the handle box.

[0130] When the slider 501 drives the top rod 502 to move relative to the handle box, the top rod 502 may move along its own length direction (top rod 502) and away from the hovering portion 101, so the second elastic member 70 is provided. When the top rod 502 moves along its own length direction (top rod 502) and away from the hovering portion 101, the second elastic member 70 is deformed, thereby being able to drive the top rod 502 to reset, so that the top rod 502 is always in contact with the handle box.

[0131] The angle between the deformation direction of the second elastic member 70 and the hinge axis 203 is smaller than the angle between the deformation direction of the first elastic member 60 and the hinge axis 203 . For example, the deformation direction of the second elastic member 70 is parallel to the hinge axis 203 , and the deformation direction of the first elastic member 60 is perpendicular to the hinge axis 203 .

[0132] This arrangement allows the overall handle assembly to occupy a small space and have a compact structure.

[0133] Optionally, the handle box is provided with a slide groove 105 , and the hovering fitting portion abuts against the bottom wall of the slide groove 105 and moves relative to the slide groove 105 .

[0134] The handle assembly also includes a limiting protrusion 80, which is arranged in the slide groove 105 and defines a limiting groove 107 between the limiting protrusion 80 and the groove side wall of the slide groove 105, and the hovering matching part moves circumferentially around the limiting protrusion 80; the circumferential surface of the limiting protrusion 80 includes a first circumferential surface 801 and a second circumferential surface 802, the second circumferential surface 802 is connected to the first circumferential surface 801 and a bend 803 (B) is formed at the connection, and the hovering portion 101 includes the bend 803.

[0135] The push rod 502 moves along the first circumferential surface 801 and the second circumferential surface 802 . When it moves to the bend 803 , the bend 803 can limit the push rod 502 , so that the hovering mechanism 50 is located in the locking position and the corresponding handle is in the hovering position.

[0136] The limiting protrusion 80 also includes a third circumferential surface 804 , which is connected to an end of the first circumferential surface 801 away from the second circumferential surface 802 and an end of the second circumferential surface 802 away from the first circumferential surface 801 , and D is arranged corresponding to the third circumferential surface 804 .

[0137] Alternatively, if Figure 3 As shown, a positioning groove 106 is provided on the bottom wall of the slide groove 105 corresponding to the hidden position. In the hidden position, the hovering mating portion is supported on the groove side wall of the positioning groove 106 to prevent the push rod 502 from moving from the hidden position toward the third circumferential surface 804.

[0138] The side wall of the positioning groove 106 is connected to the bend 803, so that the push rod 502 can move from the side wall of the positioning groove 106 to the bend 803. However, when the push rod 502 slides from the positioning groove 106, the push rod 502 abuts against the bottom wall of the positioning groove 106, so that the push rod 502 moves smoothly and prevents the push rod 502 from separating from the buckle box.

[0139] The height of the limiting protrusion 80 is greater than the height of the positioning groove 106 .

[0140] In this way, when the top rod 502 is in contact with the bottom wall of the slide groove 105, when the top rod 502 moves to the bend 803, due to the large height of the limiting protrusion 80, the top rod 502 and the limiting protrusion 80 have a large contact area, thereby increasing the friction between the top plate and the bend 803, so that the handle can be stably in the hovering position.

[0141] like Fig. 20 As shown, one end of the limiting groove 107 is point A, and the end opposite to point A is point C. The limiting groove 107 includes a first groove section 1071 and a second groove section 1072 that are connected, the first circumferential surface 801 and the second circumferential surface 802 are groove side walls of the first groove section 1071, and the third circumferential surface 804 is a groove side wall of the second groove section 1072.

[0142] From the second groove section 1072 to the positioning groove 106, the bottom wall of the second groove section 1072 gradually tilts toward the middle of the handle box so that the handle can move from the protruding position to the hidden position under less force, so that the top rod 502 moves toward the middle of the handle box during this movement.

[0143] The moving direction of the push rod 502 is not parallel to the moving direction of the slider 501 .

[0144] When the handle is rotated from the hidden position to the protruding position, the first handle portion 201 gradually protrudes out of the handle box, and the second handle portion 202 gradually extends into the handle box. As the second handle portion 202 extends into the handle box, the second handle portion 202 compresses the first elastic member 60, and the first elastic member 60 drives the slider 501 to move in a direction away from the second handle portion 202. The top rod 502 has two directions of movement, one of which is along the direction passing through A, B, and C in sequence, which is the direction away from the second handle portion 202, and the other direction is along the direction close to the middle of the handle box, compressing the second elastic member 70 or stretching the second elastic member 70.

[0145] like Fig.15 and 20 As shown, the first circumferential surface 801 includes a first sub-surface 8011 and a second sub-surface 8012 connected to each other. Along the direction from A, B to C, the first sub-surface 8011, the second sub-surface 8012 and the second circumferential surface 802 are arranged in sequence.

[0146] Along the direction from A and B to C, the first sub-surface 8011 is inclined in the direction away from the bottom wall of the limiting groove 107, and the first sub-surface 8011 is inclined in the direction close to the bottom wall of the limiting groove 107. A bend 8013 is formed at the connection between the first sub-surface 8011 and the second sub-surface 8012.

[0147] Along the direction from C, D to A, the third circumferential surface 804 is inclined in the direction away from the bottom wall of the limiting groove 107. Optionally, the third circumferential surface 804 is in an arc shape to guide the push rod 502 to move smoothly from C to D to A.

[0148] like Figure 4 As shown, the surface of the slider 501 includes a first surface 5011 and a second surface 5013. The first surface 5011 is provided with a matching portion 5012 for matching with the handle. The matching portion 5012 protrudes from the first surface 5011 and is connected to the first elastic member 60 to achieve the connection between the slider 501 and the first elastic member 60.

[0149] The second surface 5013 is connected to the first surface 5011 and a bend is formed at the connection. The second surface 5013 is provided with an assembly channel 5014. The top rod 502 and the second elastic member 70 are located in the assembly channel 5014 and move along the axial direction of the assembly channel 5014. The deformation direction of the second elastic member 70 and the length direction of the top rod 502 are parallel to or coincide with the axial direction of the assembly channel 5014.

[0150] like Figure 6 As shown, the axial direction of the assembly channel 5014 is not parallel to the second surface 5013 , so as to avoid the axial direction of the assembly channel 5014 being perpendicular to the first surface 5011 .

[0151] If the axial direction of the assembly channel 5014 is perpendicular to the first surface 5011 , the length direction of the push rod 502 is perpendicular to the first surface 5011 , resulting in the push rod 502 and the slider 501 moving in the same direction.

[0152] A rear plate 503 is provided at one end of the assembly channel 5014 away from the top rod 502 to prevent the second elastic member 70 from escaping from the assembly channel 5014 .

[0153] The handle assembly further includes a limit plate 108 , which is disposed on the handle box, wherein the limit plate 108 and the handle are respectively located on two opposite sides of the slider 501 .

[0154] The first elastic member 60 and the limit plate 108 are respectively located on two opposite sides of the slider 501. When the first elastic member 60 drives the slider 501 to move toward the limit plate 108, the limit position of the movement of the slider 501 is abutting against the limit plate 108, so that the limit plate 108 can prevent the slider 501 from detaching from the handle box under the action of the first elastic member 60.

[0155] Optionally, both the suspension mechanism 50 and the connecting rod assembly 40 cooperate with the second handle portion 202 .

[0156] This design enables the connecting rod assembly 40 and the suspending mechanism 50 to be located on the side of the handle facing the bottom wall 102 of the handle box, thereby preventing the connecting rod assembly 40 and the suspending mechanism 50 from protruding out of the handle box.

[0157] When the handle needs to protrude from the handle box, it can be achieved by pulling the first handle portion 201 or by pressing the second handle portion 202.

[0158] The handle box includes an inner box body 109 and an outer box body 110 sleeved outside the inner box body 109 , the handle is arranged on the inner box body 109 , and the inner box body 109 and the outer box body 110 are fixedly connected.

[0159] An embodiment of the second aspect of the present application provides a refrigerator, comprising a cabinet body, a door body 100 and a handle assembly for the refrigerator as described in any one of the above embodiments; the door body 100 is arranged on the cabinet body in an openable and closable manner, and the door body 100 is provided with a recess; in the handle assembly for the refrigerator as described in any one of the above embodiments, the handle box is arranged in the recess, and in the extended position, the push rod assembly 30 is in contact with the cabinet body.

[0160] The refrigerator provided in the embodiment of the second aspect of the present application includes the handle assembly described in any one of the above embodiments, and thus has all the beneficial effects of the handle assembly described in any one of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0161] The assembly process of the handle assembly in this application is:

[0162] 1. The assembly process of the pre-installed foaming part is as follows:

[0163] The first connecting rod, the second connecting rod and the reset component are fixed on the inner box body, and the inner box body is fixed in the recess of the door body. After the inner box body is positioned on the door body, it needs to be fixed and sealed with tape before foaming.

[0164] 2. The assembly process of the handle assembly is as follows:

[0165] Installing the ejector rod, the second elastic member, and the rear plate into the assembly channel to form a slider assembly;

[0166] Install the slider assembly and the first elastic member inside the inner box body, and at the same time, fix a limit plate on the inner box body to prevent the slider from falling out of the handle under the action of the first elastic member;

[0167] 3. Fix the reset parts, handles and other components to the inner box body.

[0168] The above can complete the assembly of part of the handle assembly, and then install the part of the handle assembly into the inner part of the outer box body that has been foamed by screws / snaps. At the same time, insert the push rod assembly on the opposite side of the door body to complete the installation of the whole handle assembly.

[0169] The above description and the accompanying drawings sufficiently illustrate the embodiments of the present disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Unless explicitly required, individual components and functions are optional, and the order of operations may vary. Portions and features of some embodiments may be included in or replace portions and features of other embodiments. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope thereof. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A handle assembly for a refrigerator, characterized in that: include: Clasp Hand Box; A handle is provided on the handle box, the handle is movably connected to the handle box and can move relative to the handle box between a hidden position inside the handle box and a protruding position protruding from the handle box; A push rod assembly is provided in the buckle box and can move between an extended position for extending the buckle box and a retracted position for retracting the buckle box. The push rod assembly cooperates with the handle. When the handle moves relative to the buckle box, the push rod assembly is driven to move between the extended position and the retracted position. The hovering mechanism cooperates with the handle and is used to put the handle in a hovering position, wherein when the handle is in the hovering position, the push rod assembly is in a retracted position, wherein the hovering position is between the hidden position and the protruding position.

2. The handle assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The handle box is provided with a hovering part, and the hovering mechanism moves relative to the hovering part so that the hovering mechanism and the hovering part are matched or separated, wherein when the hovering mechanism and the hovering part are matched, the handle is in a hovering position.

3. The handle assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: Also includes: The reset piece is located between the handle and the handle box, and when the handle is opened, the reset piece undergoes elastic deformation; In the hovering position, the force transmitted from the reset member to the hovering mechanism is smaller than the force applied by the hovering portion to the hovering mechanism, so that the hovering mechanism cooperates with the hovering portion.

4. The handle assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The hovering mechanism is in contact with the handle box, and under the action of the handle, the hovering mechanism moves circumferentially around the hovering part.

5. The handle assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The hovering part is arranged on the side wall of the handle box; the hovering mechanism comprises: A slider, cooperating with the handle; A push rod, arranged on a side of the slider facing the hovering portion; When the handle moves relative to the handle box, the slider is driven to move, and the slider drives the ejector rod to move relative to the suspension part to cooperate with or separate from the suspension part.

6. The handle assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 5, characterized in that: The handle and the handle box are rotatably connected via a hinge shaft, and the handle assembly also includes: A first elastic member is connected between the handle and the slider. When the handle rotates relative to the handle box, the handle drives the first elastic member to move, thereby driving the slider to move relative to the handle box. The hovering mechanism also includes: A second elastic member is supported between the slider and the push rod and is used to drive the push rod to move toward the suspension portion; Wherein, the angle between the deformation direction of the second elastic member and the hinge axis is smaller than the angle between the deformation direction of the first elastic member and the hinge axis.

7. The handle assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The handle assembly also includes a connecting rod assembly, which is arranged between the handle and the push rod assembly. The handle drives the push rod assembly to move between an extended position and a retracted position through the connecting rod assembly. The handle box includes: a first side wall; The second side wall is arranged opposite to the first side wall, the suspension portion is arranged on the first side wall, and the connecting rod assembly is arranged on the second side wall.

8. The handle assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second side wall is provided with an installation channel, the connecting rod assembly is arranged in the installation channel, and the channel wall of the installation channel includes: a first channel wall, wherein the connecting rod assembly abuts against the first channel wall when the handle is in the hidden position and the hovering position; The second channel wall is connected to the first channel wall and is arranged opposite to the first channel wall. When the handle is in the protruding position, the connecting rod assembly abuts against the second channel wall.

9. The handle assembly for a refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the handle include: First Commander; The second handle portion is connected to the first handle portion and is in a protruding position. The first handle portion protrudes outward from the handle box, and the second handle portion extends inward into the handle box. The suspension mechanism and the push rod assembly are both matched with the second handle portion.

10. A refrigerator, characterized in that: include: Cabinet; The door body is arranged on the cabinet body so as to be openable and closable, and the door body is provided with a recess; According to the handle assembly for a refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, the handle box is arranged in the recess, and in the extended position, the push rod assembly abuts against the cabinet body.

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