Shelf components for refrigerators and refrigerators

Abstract

This application relates to the field of refrigerator technology, and discloses a shelf assembly for a refrigerator. The refrigerator includes an inner liner defining a receiving space. The shelf assembly includes: a rear shelf adapted to be disposed in the receiving space; a front shelf adapted to be disposed in the receiving space, the front shelf being connected to the rear shelf, and the front shelf being movable relative to the rear shelf between a first position and a second position; a drive mechanism including a meshing gear and a rack, one of the gear and the rack being connected to the front shelf and the other to the rear shelf, the rack and gear moving relative to each other to move the front shelf relative to the rear shelf; wherein the second position is located below the first position. The meshing transmission structure of the gear and rack is relatively compact, enabling efficient power transmission within a limited space. Through the meshing drive of the gear and rack, the front shelf can be driven to move linearly between the first position and the second position, simplifying the movement trajectory of the front shelf and improving the space utilization of the refrigerator. This application also discloses a refrigerator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of refrigerator technology, specifically to a shelf assembly for a refrigerator and a refrigerator. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, refrigerators use shelves to store items, but the top shelf makes it inconvenient for users to access items due to its height.

[0003] The related technology discloses a storage rack for a refrigerator, comprising a rear shelf, a front shelf, and a linkage mechanism. The rear shelf is located at the rear of the inner liner and is slidably connected to the side wall of the inner liner, allowing it to slide horizontally relative to the inner liner in the front-to-back direction. The front shelf is connected to the rear shelf and located on its front side. The linkage mechanism connects the side wall of the front shelf and the corresponding side wall of the rear shelf, enabling the front shelf to move relative to the rear shelf between a placement position at the same height as the rear shelf and a retrieval position below the rear shelf. By incorporating a telescopic shelf, the shelf moves towards the user and lowers simultaneously as the user pulls it out, solving the problem of inconvenient access from the top shelf.

[0004] In the process of implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, at least the following problems were found in the related art:

[0005] In related technologies, the front shelf and the rear shelf are connected by a linkage mechanism. The linkage mechanism requires a large amount of space to move the front shelf, which will affect the space utilization of the refrigerator.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Utility Model Content

[0007] To provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed embodiments, a brief summary is given below. This summary is not intended as a general commentary, nor is it intended to identify key / important components or describe the scope of protection of these embodiments, but rather as a prelude to the detailed description that follows.

[0008] This disclosure provides a shelf assembly and a refrigerator for improving the space utilization of the refrigerator.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a shelf assembly for a refrigerator is provided. The refrigerator includes an inner liner defining an accommodating space. The shelf assembly includes: a rear shelf adapted to be disposed in the accommodating space; a front shelf adapted to be disposed in the accommodating space, the front shelf being connected to the rear shelf and the front shelf being movable relative to the rear shelf between a first position and a second position; a drive mechanism including a meshing gear and a rack, one of the gear and the rack being connected to the front shelf and the other being connected to the rear shelf, the rack and the gear moving relative to each other to move the front shelf relative to the rear shelf; wherein the second position is located below the first position.

[0010] Optionally, the gear is connected to the rear shelf; the rack is connected to the front shelf, and the rack extends vertically. The rack moves relative to the gear to drive the front shelf to rise and fall vertically.

[0011] Optionally, the rear shelf is provided with a first limiting part, and the front shelf is provided with a first limiting engagement part, the first limiting part cooperating with the first limiting engagement part to limit the front shelf to a first position; and / or, the rear shelf is provided with a second limiting part, and the front shelf is provided with a second limiting engagement part, the second limiting part cooperating with the second limiting engagement part to limit the front shelf to a second position.

[0012] Optionally, one of the first limiting part and the first limiting mating part is a slot, and the other is a latch. In the first position, the latch can be inserted into the slot to limit the front shelf to the first position; and / or,

[0013] One of the second limiting part and the second limiting mating part is a baffle, and the other is a boss. In the second position, the baffle abuts against the boss so that the front shelf is limited to the second position.

[0014] Optionally, the rear shelf is provided with a guide portion, and the front shelf is provided with a guide engagement portion. The guide portion and the guide engagement portion cooperate to guide the front shelf to move between a first position and a second position relative to the rear shelf.

[0015] Optionally, one of the guide section and the guide mating section is a guide rail and the other is a slider. The slider moves relative to the guide rail to drive the front shelf to move relative to the rear shelf.

[0016] Optionally, the rear shelf includes: a support frame, movably connected to the front shelf; if the rear shelf is provided with a first limiting part and / or a second limiting part, the first limiting part and / or the second limiting part is provided on the support frame; if the rear shelf is provided with a guide part, the guide part is provided on the support frame.

[0017] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a refrigerator is provided, comprising: an inner liner defining an accommodating space; and a shelf assembly for a refrigerator as described in any of the above-disclosed embodiments, disposed in the accommodating space, with a rear shelf disposed at the rear of the inner liner and a front shelf disposed at the front side of the rear shelf.

[0018] Optionally, the inner liner has an opening; the rear shelf is movably connected to the inner liner, the front shelf is located on the side of the rear shelf near the opening, and the rear shelf can reciprocate between a third position away from the opening and a fourth position near the opening relative to the inner liner, so as to drive the front shelf to reciprocate relative to the inner liner in the front-rear direction.

[0019] Optionally, the inner liner is provided with a third limiting part, and the rear shelf is provided with a third limiting mating part, the third limiting part and the third limiting mating part cooperating with each other to limit the rear shelf to a third position; and / or, the inner liner is provided with a fourth limiting part, and the rear shelf is provided with a fourth limiting mating part, the fourth limiting part and the fourth limiting mating part cooperating with each other to limit the rear shelf to a fourth position.

[0020] Optionally, the third limiting part is the first limiting surface, and the third limiting mating part is the second limiting surface. In the third position, the first limiting surface and the second limiting surface abut against each other, so that the rear shelf is limited to the third position; and / or, one of the fourth limiting part and the fourth limiting mating part is a limiting groove, and the other is a limiting protrusion. In the fourth position, the limiting protrusion can be engaged with the limiting groove, so that the rear shelf is limited to the fourth position.

[0021] The shelf assembly and refrigerator for a refrigerator provided in this disclosure can achieve the following technical effects:

[0022] Using the shelf assembly for a refrigerator provided in this disclosure, the front shelf can move vertically between a first position and a second position relative to the rear shelf. When the front shelf moves to the second position, its height is lowered, making it easier to retrieve or store items. The meshing transmission structure of gears and racks is relatively compact, enabling efficient power transmission within a limited space. Through the meshing drive of gears and racks, the front shelf can move linearly between the first and second positions, thereby simplifying the movement trajectory of the front shelf and improving the space utilization of the refrigerator.

[0023] The above general description and the description below are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0024] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These illustrations and drawings do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements having the same reference numerals in the drawings are shown as similar elements. The drawings are not to be scaled. And wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1The cross-sectional diagram along direction AA is shown, where the arrows indicate the front-to-back direction, the front shelf is in the first position, and the rear shelf is in the third position.

[0027] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view along the BB direction is shown.

[0028] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged schematic diagram of section C is shown below;

[0029] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a shelf assembly for a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0030] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The cross-sectional view along the DD direction is shown, where the arrow indicates the direction in which the buckle is inserted into the slot;

[0031] Figure 7 This is an exploded schematic diagram of a shelf assembly for a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another shelf assembly for a refrigerator provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0033] Figure label:

[0034] 100: Shelf assembly;

[0035] 10: Rear shelf; 11: First limiting part; 111: Buckle; 112: Connecting part; 113: Snap-fit ​​part; 114: First claw; 115: Second claw; 116: Support body; 12: Second limiting part; 121: Baffle; 13: Guide part; 131: Slider; 132: Slide groove; 14: Support frame; 15: Second slide rail; 16: Third limiting mating part; 161: Second limiting surface; 17: Fourth limiting mating part; 171: Limiting groove;

[0036] 20: Front shelf; 21: First limiting mating part; 211: Slot; 22: Second limiting mating part; 221: Boss; 23: Guide mating part; 231: Guide rail;

[0037] 30: Drive mechanism; 31: Gear; 32: Rack;

[0038] 40: Inner liner; 41: Accommodation space; 42: Opening; 43: First slide rail; 44: Third limiting part; 441: First limiting surface; 45: Fourth limiting part; 451: Limiting protrusion. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To provide a more detailed understanding of the features and technical content of the embodiments of this disclosure, the implementation of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. In the following technical description, for ease of explanation, several details are used to provide a full understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, one or more embodiments may still be implemented without these details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices may be simplified in their depiction to simplify the drawings.

[0040] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0041] In this disclosure, the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "middle," "outer," "front," and "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for better description of the embodiments of this disclosure and their implementations, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation, or to require them to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the aforementioned terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientation or positional relationship; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0042] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "connect," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" 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, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0043] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0044] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0045] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0046] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0047] Combination Figure 1-8 As shown, this disclosure provides a shelf assembly 100 for a refrigerator. The refrigerator includes an inner liner 40 defining a receiving space 41. The shelf assembly 100 includes a rear shelf 10, a front shelf 20, and a drive mechanism 30. The rear shelf 10 is adapted to be disposed in the receiving space 41. The front shelf 20 is adapted to be disposed in the receiving space 41 and is connected to the rear shelf 10. The front shelf 20 is movable relative to the rear shelf 10 between a first position and a second position. The drive mechanism 30 includes a meshing gear 31 and a rack 32. One of the gear 31 and the rack 32 is connected to the front shelf 20, and the other is connected to the rear shelf 10. The rack 32 moves relative to the gear 31 to move the front shelf 20 relative to the rear shelf 10. The second position is located below the first position.

[0048] The rear shelf 10 and the front shelf 20 are adapted to be installed within the accommodating space 41 of the inner liner 40 for storage. The first position is the initial position of the front shelf 20, and the second position is located below the first position, meaning the front shelf 20 can be raised and lowered relative to the rear shelf 10. The front shelf 20 can be raised and lowered relative to the rear shelf 10; in the second position, the height of the front shelf 20 is lowered, making it easier to access or store items, especially taller items or items stored on the upper shelves of the refrigerator. After accessing or storing items, the front shelf 20 moves from the second position back to the first position, returning to its original position. Figure 2 As shown, the front shelf 20 is in the first position.

[0049] There can be multiple gears and racks, which can be distributed along the length of the shelf, with each gear and rack corresponding to the other. This improves the movement of the front shelf.

[0050] Using the shelf assembly 100 for a refrigerator provided in this embodiment, the front shelf 20 can move vertically between a first position and a second position relative to the rear shelf 10. When the front shelf 20 moves to the second position, its height is lowered, making it easier to access or store items. The meshing transmission structure of the gear 31 and rack 32 is relatively compact, enabling efficient power transmission within a limited space. Driven by the meshing of the gear 31 and rack 32, the front shelf 20 can move linearly between the first and second positions, thereby simplifying the movement trajectory of the front shelf 20 and improving the space utilization of the refrigerator. Furthermore, by dividing the shelf assembly 100 into front and rear parts, the rear shelf 10 is exposed when the front shelf 20 is lowered to the second position, facilitating simultaneous access to items in both the front and rear shelves, thus making more efficient use of the storage space 41.

[0051] Optionally, combined Figure 2 As shown, the first position is at the same height as the rear shelf 10.

[0052] When the front shelf 20 is in its first position, it is at the same height as the rear shelf 10, which maximizes the use of vertical space inside the refrigerator. When items need to be stored or retrieved, the front shelf 20 can be lowered to its second position, providing a more comfortable operating height and making the refrigerator's storage space more flexible. It can be understood that the first position can also be higher or lower than the rear shelf 10.

[0053] Optionally, combined Figure 7 As shown, gear 31 is connected to rear shelf 10; rack 32 is connected to front shelf 20, and rack 32 extends vertically. Rack 32 moves relative to gear 31 to drive front shelf 20 to rise and fall vertically.

[0054] The rack 32 extends vertically, allowing the front shelf 20 to be raised and lowered vertically. This vertical raising and lowering motion requires less space and more effectively improves the utilization of the refrigerator's interior space.

[0055] Optionally, combined Figure 6-8 As shown, the rear shelf 10 is provided with a first limiting part 11, and the front shelf 20 is provided with a first limiting engagement part 21. The first limiting part 11 and the first limiting engagement part 21 cooperate to limit the front shelf 20 to a first position.

[0056] By providing the first limiting part 11 and the first limiting engagement part 21, the front shelf 20 can be limited to the first position, improving the stability of the front shelf 20 in the first position. This prevents the front shelf 20 from accidentally sliding or shifting during use, improving the safety and reliability of the shelf assembly 100.

[0057] Optionally, combined Figure 6-8 As shown, one of the first limiting part 11 and the first limiting mating part 21 is a slot 211 and the other is a buckle 111. In the first position, the buckle 111 can be inserted into the slot 211 so that the front shelf 20 is limited to the first position.

[0058] The limiting structure of the buckle 111 and the slot 211 is simple and effective. When the front shelf 20 is in the first position, the buckle 111 can be inserted into the slot 211, so that the front shelf 20 can be stably positioned in the first position. The first limiting part 11 can be the slot 211, and the first limiting mating part 21 can be the buckle 111. Alternatively, the first limiting part 11 can be the buckle 111, and the first limiting mating part 21 can be the slot 211. This application takes the buckle 111 as the first limiting part 11 and the slot 211 as the first limiting mating part as an example. The buckle 111 is provided on the rear shelf 10, and the slot 211 is provided on the front shelf 20. When the front shelf 20 moves from the second position to the first position, the buckle 111 is correspondingly engaged with the slot 211 to achieve limiting, so that the front shelf 20 is stably fixed in the first position. There can be multiple first limiting parts 11 and multiple first limiting mating parts 21, with each of the multiple first limiting parts 11 and multiple first limiting mating parts 21 corresponding to one another.

[0059] Optionally, combined Figure 6-8 As shown, the first limiting part 11 is a buckle 111, and the first limiting mating part 21 is a slot 211. The buckle 111 includes a connecting part 112 and a snap-fit ​​part 113 connected to each other. The connecting part 112 is connected to the rear shelf 10, and the snap-fit ​​part 113 is mated with the slot 211.

[0060] The buckle 111 is stably connected to the rear shelf 10 by the connecting part 112, and the snap-fit ​​part 113 engages with the snap-fit ​​groove 211 to limit the movement, thereby improving the stability of the limit.

[0061] Optionally, combined Figure 6 As shown, the latching part 113 includes a first latch 114, a second latch 115, and a support body 116. The first latch 114 and the second latch 115 are disposed opposite each other on both sides of the support body 116. Along the direction in which the latch 111 is inserted into the latch slot 211, the first latch 114 and the second latch 115 are inclined toward the direction closer to the support body 116, and the ends of the first latch 114 and the second latch 115 near the support body 116 are both connected to the support body 116. The ends of the first latch 114 and the second latch 115 away from the support body 116 are both free ends. The distance between the free ends of the first latch 114 and the second latch 115 is greater than the size of the latch slot 211.

[0062] The direction in which the buckle 111 is inserted into the card slot 211 is as follows: Figure 6 The direction indicated by the middle arrow.

[0063] Along the direction in which the buckle 111 is inserted into the slot 211, the first claw 114 and the second claw 115 are inclined toward the support body 116, and the ends of the first claw 114 and the second claw 115 near the support body 116 are both connected to the support body 116, while the ends of the first claw 114 and the second claw 115 away from the support body 116 are both free ends. This allows deformation space to be formed between the first claw 114 and the support body 116, and between the second claw 115 and the support body 116, enabling the buckle 111 to be stably engaged in the slot 211. It also allows the buckle 111 to adapt to slots 211 of various sizes. The distance between the free ends of the first claw 114 and the second claw 115 is greater than the size of the slot 211, which improves the secure engagement between the buckle 111 and the slot 211.

[0064] Optionally, combined Figure 8 As shown, the rear shelf 10 is provided with a second limiting part 12, and the front shelf 20 is provided with a second limiting engagement part 22. The second limiting part 12 and the second limiting engagement part 22 cooperate to limit the front shelf 20 to a second position.

[0065] By providing the second limiting part 12 and the second limiting engagement part 22, the front shelf 20 can be limited to the second position, improving the stability of the front shelf 20 in the second position. This prevents the front shelf 20 from continuing to move downward after reaching the second position, avoiding the front shelf 20 from detaching from the rear shelf 10, thereby improving the safety of the shelf assembly 100. There can be multiple second limiting parts 12 and second limiting engagement parts 22, with each pair corresponding to a different second limiting part 12.

[0066] Optionally, combined Figure 8 As shown, one of the second limiting part 12 and the second limiting mating part 22 is a baffle 121 and the other is a boss 221. In the second position, the baffle 121 abuts against the boss 221 so that the front shelf 20 is limited to the second position.

[0067] The cooperation between the baffle 121 and the boss 221 provides a simple and reliable limiting mechanism. When the baffle 121 abuts against the boss 221, the front shelf 20 is restricted to the second position, which can improve the stability of the front shelf 20 in the second position and prevent the front shelf 20 from moving accidentally when taking or storing items.

[0068] The second limiting part 12 can be a baffle 121, and the second limiting mating part 22 can be a boss 221. Alternatively, the second limiting part 12 can be a boss 221, and the second limiting mating part 22 can be a baffle 121. This application takes the example of the second limiting part 12 being a baffle 121 and the second limiting mating part 22 being a boss 221. The baffle 121 is provided at the lower part of the rear shelf 10, and the boss 221 is provided at the upper part of the front shelf 20. When the front shelf 20 descends to the second position, the boss 221 can abut against the baffle 121, restricting the front shelf 20 from continuing to move downward.

[0069] Optionally, combined Figure 6 As shown, the rear shelf 10 is provided with a guide portion 13, and the front shelf 20 is provided with a guide engagement portion 23. The guide portion 13 and the guide engagement portion 23 cooperate to guide the front shelf 20 to move between a first position and a second position relative to the rear shelf 10.

[0070] By providing the guide portion 13 and the guide mating portion 23, the front shelf 20 can be guided to move smoothly between a first position and a second position relative to the rear shelf 10. The guide mating structure also provides additional support for the front shelf 20. This reduces friction and vibration during the movement of the front shelf 20, improving the smoothness of its movement. Simultaneously, the cooperation between the guide portion 13 and the guide mating portion 23 also enhances the precise positioning of the front shelf 20 during movement, improving the accuracy of its movement.

[0071] Optionally, combined Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, one of the guide part 13 and the guide mating part 23 is a guide rail 231, and the other is a slider 131. The slider 131 moves relative to the guide rail 231 to drive the front shelf 20 to move relative to the rear shelf 10.

[0072] The guiding fit structure of the guide rail 231 and the slider 131 provides precise guiding function, ensuring that the front shelf 20 maintains linear motion relative to the rear shelf 10, reducing offset and swaying, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the shelf movement. The guide portion 13 can be the guide rail 231, and the guiding fit portion 23 can be the slider 131. Alternatively, the guide portion 13 can be the slider 131, and the guiding fit portion 23 can be the guide rail 231. This application uses the guide portion 13 as the slider 131 and the guiding fit portion 23 as the guide rail 231 as an example. The slider 131 is fixed to the rear shelf 10 and has a groove 132. The guide rail 231 is fixed to the front shelf 20 and extends vertically, that is, it extends along the height direction of the front shelf 20. The guide rail 231 is embedded in the groove 132 and can slide relative to the slider 131, thereby guiding the front shelf 20 to move vertically. There can be multiple guide rails and sliders, with each guide rail and slider corresponding to the other.

[0073] Optionally, combined Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the rear shelf 10 includes a support frame 14, which is movably connected to the front shelf 20. When the rear shelf 10 is provided with a first limiting part 11 and / or a second limiting part 12, the first limiting part 11 and / or the second limiting part 12 are provided on the support frame 14. When the rear shelf 10 is provided with a guide part 13, the guide part 13 is provided on the support frame 14.

[0074] The rear shelf 10 includes a support frame 14, through which the front shelf 20 is movably connected to the rear shelf 10, making the structure of the shelf assembly 100 more compact. Simultaneously, the support frame 14 provides additional support points, enhancing the connection strength and stability between the front shelf 20 and the rear shelf 10. The first limiting part 11, the second limiting part 12, and the guide part 13 can all be located on the support frame 14, thus optimizing the space utilization of the shelf assembly 100 and simplifying its structure.

[0075] Combination Figure 8 As shown, when the rear shelf 10 includes a support frame 14, the support frame 14 can serve as a baffle 121, acting as a second limiting part 12. It cooperates with the boss 221 provided on the front shelf 20 to limit the front shelf 20 to a second position.

[0076] Optionally, combined Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the support frame 14 is located on the side of the rear shelf 10, and one end of the support frame 14 is movably connected to the side of the front shelf 20.

[0077] The support bracket 14 is located on the side of the rear shelf 10 and the front shelf 20, which can reduce interference with the internal components of the refrigerator when the rear shelf 10 or the front shelf 20 moves. At the same time, the design of the side support bracket 14 is more visually concealed, which can improve the neatness and aesthetics of the refrigerator interior.

[0078] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this disclosure provides a refrigerator, including an inner liner 40 and a shelf assembly 100 for the refrigerator as described in any of the above-disclosed embodiments. The inner liner 40 defines an accommodating space 41; the shelf assembly 100 is disposed in the accommodating space 41, a rear shelf 10 is disposed at the rear of the inner liner 40, and a front shelf 20 is disposed at the front of the rear shelf 10.

[0079] Forward and backward directions, such as Figure 2 The direction indicated by the middle arrow.

[0080] The refrigerator provided in this embodiment includes the shelf assembly 100 for a refrigerator as described in any of the above-described embodiments, and therefore has all the beneficial effects of the shelf assembly 100 for a refrigerator as described in any of the above-described embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0081] The shelf assembly 100 provided in this application is also applicable to other refrigeration equipment.

[0082] Optionally, combined Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the shelf assembly 100 is located on the upper part of the accommodating space 41.

[0083] The upper shelf assembly 100 in the upper part of the accommodating space 41 is divided into two parts: a front shelf 20 and a rear shelf 10. The upper shelf assembly 100 can move in the front-to-back direction, and the front shelf 20 can also be raised and lowered. The front shelf 20 and the rear shelf 10 can be easily accessed by moving forward. When the front shelf 20 is lowered, its height is reduced, and the rear shelf 10 is exposed, thus improving the convenience of storing and accessing items in both the front and rear rows of the upper shelf.

[0084] Optionally, combined Figure 2 As shown, the inner liner 40 has an opening 42; the rear shelf 10 is movably connected to the inner liner 40, and the front shelf 20 is located on the side of the rear shelf 10 near the opening 42. The rear shelf 10 can reciprocate between a third position away from the opening 42 and a fourth position near the opening 42 relative to the inner liner 40, so as to drive the front shelf 20 to reciprocate relative to the inner liner 40 in the front-back direction.

[0085] like Figure 2 As shown, the rear shelf 10 is in the third position.

[0086] The rear shelf 10 is located at the rear of the inner liner 40, and the front shelf 20 is located in front of the rear shelf 10. The opening 42 is located at the front of the inner liner 40. The rear shelf 10 can reciprocate between a third position away from the opening 42 and a fourth position close to the opening 42 relative to the inner liner 40, that is, the rear shelf 10 can move in the front-back direction relative to the inner liner 40. In the third position, the rear shelf 10 is away from the opening 42 and located at the rear of the inner liner 40. In the fourth position, the rear shelf 10 is close to the opening 42 and located at the front of the inner liner 40, facilitating the storage and retrieval of items.

[0087] When the rear shelf 10 is in the third position, the front shelf 20 is located inside the storage space. The rear shelf 10 moves from the third position to the fourth position, causing the front shelf 20 to move towards the opening. When the rear shelf 10 reaches the fourth position, the front shelf 20 can be located outside the storage space or inside the storage space near the opening; at this point, the front shelf 20 is in the first position. Then, the front shelf 20 can move downwards from the first position to the second position. This reduces the height of the front shelf 20 while ensuring that the storage surfaces of both the front shelf 20 and the rear shelf 10 are visible to the user, maximizing the use of storage space and reducing wasted space.

[0088] Optionally, combined Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the inner liner 40 is provided with a first slide rail 43, and the rear shelf 10 is provided with a second slide rail 15. The first slide rail 43 and the second slide rail 15 cooperate to allow the rear shelf 10 to slide relative to the inner liner 40 between a third position and a fourth position.

[0089] The rear shelf 10 is slidably connected to the inner liner 40. The sliding of the rear shelf 10 relative to the inner liner 40 causes the front shelf 20 to slide as well, allowing the shelf assembly 100 to be pulled out or pushed into the storage space as a whole via the sliding rail mechanism. The rear shelf 10 can be easily slid, facilitating convenient access to items, especially heavier items or those placed deep within the refrigerator. Simultaneously, the cooperation structure of the first sliding rail 43 and the second sliding rail 15 provides support for the rear shelf 10, improving the stability of the shelf assembly 100.

[0090] Optionally, combined Figure 2-4 and Figure 6 As shown, both the first slide rail 43 and the second slide rail 15 extend in the front-back direction.

[0091] Both the first slide rail 43 and the second slide rail 15 extend in the front-to-back direction, allowing the rear shelf 10 to move horizontally relative to the inner liner 40 in the front-to-back direction. This improves the stability of the rear shelf 10's movement.

[0092] Optionally, combined Figure 4 As shown, the inner liner 40 is provided with a third limiting part 44, and the rear shelf 10 is provided with a third limiting cooperating part 16. The third limiting part 44 and the third limiting cooperating part 16 cooperate to limit the rear shelf 10 to the third position.

[0093] By providing the third limiting part 44 and the third limiting engagement part 16, the stability of the rear shelf 10 in the third position can be improved, preventing the rear shelf 10 from continuing to move backward after moving from the fourth position to the third position. This avoids damage caused by the rear shelf 10 colliding with the rear wall of the inner liner 40, and improves the safety and service life of the shelf assembly 100.

[0094] Optionally, combined Figure 4 As shown, the third limiting part 44 is the first limiting surface 441, and the third limiting mating part 16 is the second limiting surface 161. In the third position, the first limiting surface 441 and the second limiting surface 161 abut against each other, so that the rear shelf 10 is limited to the third position.

[0095] By using the contact surface of the first limiting surface 441 and the second limiting surface 161 to limit the movement, the limiting contact area can be increased, thereby providing greater friction. This improves the limiting effect and ensures that the rear shelf 10 is stably positioned in the third position.

[0096] For example, the inner liner 40 is provided with a first slide rail 43, and a first limiting surface 441 is the front end surface of the first slide rail 43; the rear shelf 10 is provided with a first limiting plate on its side, and a second limiting surface 161 is the surface of the first limiting plate; in the third position, the front end surface of the first slide rail 43 can abut against the surface of the first limiting plate. Alternatively, the inner liner 40 may be provided with a second limiting plate, the first limiting surface 441 being the surface of the second limiting plate, and the rear shelf 10 may be provided with a second slide rail 15, the second limiting surface 161 being the rear end surface of the second slide rail 15; in the third position, the rear end surface of the second slide rail 15 can abut against the surface of the second limiting plate.

[0097] Optionally, combined Figure 4 As shown, the inner liner 40 is provided with a fourth limiting part 45, and the rear shelf 10 is provided with a fourth limiting cooperating part 17. The fourth limiting part 45 and the fourth limiting cooperating part 17 cooperate to limit the rear shelf 10 to the fourth position.

[0098] By providing the fourth limiting part 45 and the fourth limiting engagement part 17, the stability of the rear shelf 10 in the fourth position can be improved, preventing the rear shelf 10 from continuing to move forward after moving from the third position to the fourth position. This prevents the rear shelf 10 from detaching from the inner liner 40, thereby improving the safety and reliability of the shelf assembly 100.

[0099] Optionally, combined Figure 4 As shown, one of the fourth limiting part 45 and the fourth limiting mating part 17 is a limiting groove 171 and the other is a limiting protrusion 451. In the fourth position, the limiting protrusion 451 can be engaged with the limiting groove 171 so that the rear shelf 10 is limited to the fourth position.

[0100] The rear shelf 10 moves from the third position to the fourth position relative to the inner liner 40. When it reaches the fourth position, the limiting protrusion 451 can engage with the limiting groove 171, thereby limiting the rear shelf 10 and preventing it from moving forward. The fourth limiting part 45 can be the limiting groove 171, and the fourth limiting mating part 17 can be the limiting protrusion 451. Alternatively, the fourth limiting part 45 can be the limiting protrusion 451, and the fourth limiting mating part 17 can be the limiting groove 171. This application uses the example of the fourth limiting part 45 being the limiting protrusion 451 and the fourth limiting mating part 17 being the limiting groove 171.

[0101] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate 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. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included or substituted for parts and features of other embodiments. 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 its scope. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A shelf assembly for a refrigerator, characterized by, The refrigerator includes an inner liner that defines the accommodating space, and the shelf assembly includes: Rear shelf, suitable for placement in storage space; A front shelf is suitable for placement in an accommodating space, the front shelf is connected to the rear shelf, and the front shelf is movable relative to the rear shelf between a first position and a second position. The drive mechanism includes a meshing gear and a rack, one of which is connected to the front shelf and the other to the rear shelf, and the rack moves relative to the gear to move the front shelf relative to the rear shelf; The second position is located below the first position.

2. The shelf assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gear is connected to the rear shelf; The rack is connected to the front shelf and extends vertically. The rack moves relative to the gear to drive the front shelf to rise and fall vertically.

3. The shelf assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rear shelf is provided with a first limiting part, and the front shelf is provided with a first limiting mating part. The first limiting part and the first limiting mating part cooperate to limit the front shelf to a first position; and / or, The rear shelf is provided with a second limiting part, and the front shelf is provided with a second limiting engagement part. The second limiting part and the second limiting engagement part cooperate to limit the front shelf to a second position.

4. The shelf assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 3, characterized in that, One of the first limiting part and the first limiting mating part is a slot, and the other is a latch. In the first position, the latch can be inserted into the slot to limit the front shelf to the first position; and / or, One of the second limiting part and the second limiting mating part is a baffle, and the other is a boss. In the second position, the baffle abuts against the boss so that the front shelf is limited to the second position.

5. The shelf assembly for a refrigerator according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rear shelf is provided with a guide part, and the front shelf is provided with a guide engagement part. The guide part and the guide engagement part cooperate to guide the front shelf to move between a first position and a second position relative to the rear shelf.

6. The shelf assembly for a refrigerator according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that, The rear shelf includes: The support frame is movably connected to the front shelf; When the rear shelf is provided with a first limiting part and / or a second limiting part, the first limiting part and / or the second limiting part are provided on the support frame; When the rear shelf is equipped with a guide, the guide is located on the support frame.

7. A refrigerator characterized by comprising: include: The inner liner defines the storage space; The shelf assembly for a refrigerator as described in any one of claims 1 to 6 is provided in the accommodating space, with the rear shelf located at the rear of the inner liner and the front shelf located at the front side of the rear shelf.

8. The refrigerator according to claim 7, characterized in that, The inner liner has an opening; The rear shelf is movably connected to the inner liner, and the front shelf is located on the side of the rear shelf near the opening. The rear shelf can reciprocate between the third position away from the opening and the fourth position near the opening relative to the inner liner, so as to drive the front shelf to reciprocate relative to the inner liner in the front-back direction.

9. The refrigerator according to claim 8, characterized in that, The inner liner is provided with a third limiting part, and the rear shelf is provided with a third limiting mating part. The third limiting part and the third limiting mating part cooperate to limit the rear shelf to a third position; and / or, The inner liner is provided with a fourth limiting part, and the rear shelf is provided with a fourth limiting mating part. The fourth limiting part and the fourth limiting mating part cooperate to limit the rear shelf to the fourth position.

10. The refrigerator according to claim 9, characterized in that, The third limiting part is the first limiting surface, and the third limiting mating part is the second limiting surface. In the third position, the first limiting surface abuts against the second limiting surface, thereby limiting the rear shelf to the third position; and / or, One of the fourth limiting part and the fourth limiting mating part is a limiting groove, and the other is a limiting protrusion. In the fourth position, the limiting protrusion can be engaged with the limiting groove so that the rear shelf is limited to the fourth position.

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