Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator, according to the present specification, may comprise: a cabinet that forms a first storage compartment; an inner door that opens and closes the first storage compartment and forms a second storage compartment; an outer door that opens and closes the second storage compartment; a latch receiving part that is provided on the inner door; and a locking device that is provided on the outer door and selectively locked to the latch receiving part. The locking device may comprise: a manipulation unit that is provided at the outer door and is displaced according to a user's manipulation; a latch unit that is spaced apart from the manipulation unit and provided to be selectively caught in the latch receiving part; and a connection unit that is provided between the manipulation unit and the latch unit, and selectively contacts the latch unit to transfer the displacement of the manipulation unit into the displacement of the latch unit.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This specification relates to a refrigerator.[Background Art]

[0002] In general, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at low temperatures in an internal storage space that is shielded by a refrigerator door., and is configured to store stored food in an optimal condition by cooling the interior of the storage space using cold air generated through heat exchange with a refrigerant circulating in a refrigeration cycle.

[0003] The refrigerator can be disposed independently in a kitchen or living room, or stored inside a kitchen cabinet.

[0004] The refrigerators are gradually becoming larger and more multifunctional in line with the trend of changing eating habits and higher-end products, and refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenient devices that take user convenience into consideration are being released.

[0005] The refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage space and a door connected to the cabinet and having the storage space. The door may be provided with a door storage section for storing food.

[0006] Recently, refrigerators with dual doors have been introduced, with an outer door attached to the inner door that opens and closes the storage space. Users can access the storage space by opening the inner door, or by opening the outer door while the inner door is closed, accessing the door storage section.

[0007] Prior art document Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0055887 discloses a refrigerator equipped with a hook that can selectively catch and release the inner door and outer door.

[0008] The refrigerator disclosed in the prior art document includes an inner door opening and closing a storage section, an outer door rotatably coupled to the front of the inner door, a hook engaging groove formed on the inner door, a manipulation handle that is rotatable about a transverse shaft coupled to the outer door and has a movable contact part, a hook that is rotatable about a longitudinal shaft coupled to the outer door and that can be engaged and released from the hook engaging groove, and a locking member that has a passive contact part that can selectively come into contact with the movable contact part.

[0009] The refrigerator disclosed in the prior art document has the following problems.

[0010] First, when a door is equipped with a door storage section, the door can sag downward due to the weight of the door itself as well as the weight of food stored in the door storage section. This sagging can cause the hook to not engage properly with the hook engaging groove, or the hook to disengage from the hook engaging groove.

[0011] Second, since the hook rotates while extending vertically relative to the longitudinal shaft, there is a problem that a large amount of operating space is required according to the rotation radius of the hook. In other words, there is a problem that the door volume increases because the hook requires free space between the inner and outer doors to rotate.[Disclosure] / [Technical Problem]

[0012] The present embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the fastening force of a locking unit can be prevented from being weakened due to sagging of the door.

[0013] The present embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of preventing a latch lever from being separated from a latch housing.

[0014] The present embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of minimizing the operating radius of a latch unit.

[0015] The present embodiment provides a refrigerator in which a locking unit can be stably supported and driven.

[0016] The present embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the assembly of a locking device is easy and convenient.

[0017] The present embodiment provides a refrigerator with improved convenience of manipulation of a locking device.[Technical Solution]

[0018] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet forming a first storage section.

[0019] The refrigerator may include an inner door opening and closing the first storage section and forming a second storage section.

[0020] The refrigerator may include an outer door opening and closing the second storage section.

[0021] The refrigerator may include a latch accommodation part provided in the inner door.

[0022] The refrigerator may include a locking device provided in the outer door and selectively engaged or restrained in the latch accommodation part.

[0023] The locking device may include a manipulation unit provided in the outer door and displacing according to a user's manipulation.

[0024] The locking device may include a latch unit spaced apart from the manipulation unit and provided to selectively engage the latch accommodation part.

[0025] The locking device may include a connection unit provided between the manipulation unit and the latch unit, selectively contacting the latch unit to transfer or convert the displacement of the manipulation unit into the displacement of the latch unit.

[0026] The manipulation unit may include a lever housing provided in the outer door.

[0027] The manipulation unit may include a manipulation lever installed within the lever housing to be rotatable and movable about a rotational axis in a front and rear direction.

[0028] The manipulation unit may include a contact lever installed to be movable in a direction of up and down upon contact with the manipulation lever.

[0029] The manipulation lever may include a first lever member including a rotation part extending in the direction of up and down and a pressing part extending radially from the outer peripheral surface of the rotation part.

[0030] The manipulation lever may include a first elastic member connected to the first lever member to provide elasticity.

[0031] The contact lever may include a second lever member spaced apart from the first lever member

[0032] The contact lever may include a second elastic member connected to the second lever member to provide elasticity.

[0033] The latch unit may include a latch lever that is rotatable about a rotation axis in the front and rear direction.

[0034] The latch unit may further include a latch housing in which the latch lever is accommodated.

[0035] The latch lever may include a body part inserted into the inside of the latch housing.

[0036] The latch lever may include a restraining part formed at an end portion of the body part and selectively engaged or restrained in the latch accommodation part by rotation of the body part.

[0037] The restraining part may extend from an end portion of the body part in a direction intersecting the rotation axis.

[0038] The latch lever may further include a pressurizing part that extends from the outer peripheral surface of the body part and is pressurized by the connection unit.

[0039] The latch lever may further include a coupling part extending from the outer peripheral surface of the body part and to which an elastic member is coupled.

[0040] The latch unit may further include a latch cover coupled to the latch housing and supporting the latch lever

[0041] The latch housing may include a first through-hole through which a portion of the latch lever passes.

[0042] The latch cover may include a second through-hole through which the remaining portion of the latch lever passes.

[0043] The latch housing may include a seating protrusion on which the latch lever is seated.

[0044] The latch housing may include a through-hole through which the latch lever passes

[0045] The through-hole may include a first through-hole through which the body part passes.

[0046] The through-hole may further include a second through-hole through which the pressurizing part passes.

[0047] The through-hole may further include a third through-hole through which the coupling part passes

[0048] The latch lever may further include a protrusion part protruding from an end portion of the body part and inserted into the inside of the latch housing.[Advantageous Effect]

[0049] According to the proposed disclosure, the following effects are achieved.

[0050] First, since the latch lever rotates about the rotation axis in the front and rear direction and is engaged or restrained in the latch accommodation part, there is an advantage in that the fastening force of the locking unit is prevented from weakening due to sagging of the door.

[0051] Second, the restraining part extends from the end portion of the latch lever in a direction intersecting the rotation axis, minimizing the operating radius of the latch unit. Accordingly, this contributes to the compactness of the refrigerator.

[0052] Third, since the latch lever has a structure that stably supports the latch housing, the latch lever can be prevented from being detached or sagging from the latch housing.

[0053] Fourth, since the parts that make up the latch unit and the manipulation unit are configured to be assembled, there is an advantage in that assembly is easy and simple.

[0054] Fifth, there is an advantage of improved convenience of manipulation because the outer door can be opened independently by simply pulling the door.[Description of Drawings]

[0055] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating the outer door of the first door according to the first embodiment in an open state. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the lower portion of the first door. FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a locking device according to the first embodiment installed in a cap decoration. FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the manipulation unit of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the manipulation lever of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating FIG. 6 viewed from a different direction. FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the manipulation unit with the manipulation lever removed. FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a contact lever according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a longitudinal-sectional view illustrating the contact lever. FIG. 11 is a longitudinal-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 4. FIGS. 12 and 13 are longitudinal-sectional views illustrating the contact lever being raised and lowered by the manipulation lever. FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view illustrating the latch unit according to the first embodiment being restrained in the latch accommodation part. FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view illustrating a latch lever according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a front perspective view illustrating the latch lever. FIG. 17 is a longitudinal-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 14. FIG. 18 is a longitudinal-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 14. FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating the restraining part of the latch unit restrained in the latch accommodation part. FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating the inside of the latch housing with the restraining part of the latch unit restrained in the latch accommodation part. FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating the restraining part of the latch unit being released from the latch accommodation part. FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating the inside of the latch housing with the restraining part of the latch unit released from the latch accommodation part. FIG. 23 is a rear perspective view illustrating the latch unit according to the second embodiment being restrained in the latch accommodation part. FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the latch unit of FIG. 23. FIG. 25 is a longitudinal-sectional view taken along line 25-25 of FIG. 23. FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view illustrating a latch housing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 27 is a rear view illustrating a latch housing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 28 is a front view illustrating a latch housing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 29 is a rear perspective view illustrating a latch lever according to the second embodiment. FIG. 30 is a front perspective view illustrating a latch lever according to the second embodiment. FIG. 31 is a front view illustrating a latch lever according to the second embodiment. FIGS. 32 and 33 are drawings illustrating the latch lever according to the second embodiment being rotated in the opening direction. [Best Mode]

[0056] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in the drawings, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numbers even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present disclosure, if a detailed description of a related known structure or function is deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), or the like may be used to describe components of embodiments of the present disclosure. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "accessed" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or accessed to the other component, but another component may also be "connected," "coupled," or "accessed" between each component.

[0058] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a refrigerator according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating the outer door of the first door according to the first embodiment in an open state. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the lower portion of the first door.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment can be independently installed in a kitchen. The refrigerator 1 can be installed in a form accommodated within a furniture cabinet indoors. When the refrigerator 1 is installed within a furniture cabinet indoors, the refrigerator 1 can be installed alone or arranged together with other refrigerators in the left and right direction.

[0060] The refrigerator 1 may include a cabinet 10 having storage space.

[0061] The refrigerator 1 may further include a refrigerator door 20 for opening and closing the storage space.

[0062] The storage space is not limited, but may be divided into a first space on the upper side and a second space on the lower side. The refrigerator door 20 may also include a first door 30 that opens and closes the first space and a second door 40 that opens and closes the second space.

[0063] The first space may be a refrigerating compartment, and the second space may be a freezing compartment. Alternatively, the first space may be a freezing compartment, and the second space may be a refrigerating compartment. Alternatively, the storage space may include a first space and a second space divided into left and right sides. Alternatively, the storage space may be a single space, and a single refrigerator door may open and close the storage space.

[0064] At least one of the first door 30 and the second door 40 may be a rotary type door. Alternatively, a single refrigerator door 20 may be a rotary type door.

[0065] The first door 30 may be provided with an accommodation section 31 that forms a separate storage space distinct from the interior of the first space. Accordingly, when the first door 30 is closed, the interior of the first space becomes the first storage section, and the interior of the accommodation section 31 becomes the second storage section.

[0066] The first door 30 may include an inner door 50 opening and closing the first storage section. The first door 30 may further include an outer door 60 opening and closing the second storage section.

[0067] The inner door 50 may be rotatably coupled to the front surface of the cabinet 10. The outer door 60 may be rotatably coupled to the front surface of the inner door 50. The inner door 50 and the outer door 60 may have the same hinge axis. Alternatively, the inner door 50 and the outer door 60 may have hinge axes that operate independently.

[0068] The refrigerator 1 may further include a hinge device 11 that connects the first door 30 to rotate relative to the cabinet 10. The hinge device 11 may include a first hinge that connects the inner door 50 and the cabinet 10. The hinge device 11 may further include a second hinge that connects the inner door 50 and the outer door 60.

[0069] The inner door 50 may connect the upper end of the inner door 50 and the upper surface of the cabinet 10 with each other by the hinge device 11. The inner door 50 may be rotatably coupled to the front surface of the cabinet 10.

[0070] A separate hinge is also provided at the lower end of the inner door 50, so that the inner door 50 can be rotatably mounted. The first storage section can be opened and closed according to the rotation of the inner door 50. The inner door 50 can be rotated to store food in the first storage section.

[0071] An opening 51 may be formed in the inner door 50. The opening 51 may be formed by opening a portion of the front surface of the inner door 50. The opening 51 may be formed to have a size corresponding to the front surface of the accommodation section 31.

[0072] The accommodation section 31 may be provided on the rear surface of the inner door 50 corresponding to the rear of the opening 51. The accommodation section 31 may have an open front surface. The accommodation section 31 may be configured to allow access to the interior of the accommodation section 31 through the opening 51.

[0073] A sealer may be provided around the rear surface of the inner door 50 to contact the perimeter of the front surface of the cabinet 10 when the inner door 50 is closed. The sealer may be formed of an elastically deformable material and configured to be compressible. The sealer may be configured to have a magnet provided therein so as to be in close contact with the cabinet 10.

[0074] The opening 51 may be configured to allow food stored inside the accommodation section 31 to be taken in and out while the inner door 50 is closed. By opening the opening 51 while the inner door 50 is blocking the first storage section, food can be taken in and out of the accommodation section 31.

[0075] The outer door 60 may be configured to open and close the opening 51. The outer door 60 may be rotatably mounted to the inner door 50 by the hinge device 11. The outer door 60 may be rotated about the rotational axis of the inner door 50.

[0076] The outer door 60 may be provided with a lower hinge. The lower hinge may be provided at the lower end of the outer door 60. The lower hinge may be mounted on the inner door 50 to rotatably support the inner door 50.

[0077] A sealer 61 may be provided around the rear surface of the outer door 60 to be in contact with the perimeter of the front surface of the inner door 50 when the outer door 60 is closed. The sealer 61 may be formed of an elastically deformable material and configured to be compressible.

[0078] The outer door 60 may include a cap decoration 62 forming the lower end of the outer door 60. The cap decoration 62 may form the entirety or a portion of the lower surface of the outer door 60. The cap decoration 62 may be formed to extend in the left and right direction along the lower end of the outer door 60. The cap decoration 62 may be formed in the shape of a hollow frame on the inside. The cap decoration 62 may have a shape in which a portion of the lower portion is open.

[0079] The inner door 50 and the outer door 60 can each rotate independently. The first storage section and the second storage section can be selectively opened and closed by independent manipulation of the inner door 50 and the outer door 60.

[0080] The refrigerator 1 may further include a locking device that selectively restrains the inner door 50 to the outer door 60.

[0081] The locking device can selectively connect the inner door 50 and the outer door 60. The locking device can control the outer door 60 to open alone when the outer door 60 is opened, or the outer door 60 and the inner door 50 to open together.

[0082] The locking device may include a latch unit 100 for selectively engaging and restraining the outer door 60 with the inner door 50.

[0083] The latch unit 100 may be installed inside the outer door 60. The latch unit 100 may be exposed to the rear surface of the outer door 60. The latch unit 100 may be coupled to a latch accommodation part 52 formed on the front surface of the inner door 50.

[0084] The latch accommodation part 52 may be formed on one side of the inner door 50 corresponding to the position of the latch unit 100. The latch accommodation part 52 may be formed on the front edge of the inner door 50. The latch accommodation part 52 may be formed by being recessed rearward from the front surface of the inner door 50.

[0085] When the outer door 60 is closed, the latch unit 100 can be inserted into the inside of the latch accommodation part 52. The latch unit 100 is inserted into the inside of the latch accommodation part 52 and is restrained so that the outer door 60 can be maintained in a closed state.

[0086] The locking device may further include a manipulation unit 200 that is manipulated to release the restraint state of the latch unit 100.

[0087] The manipulation unit 200 may be provided in the outer door 60. The manipulation unit 200 may be disposed by a user's manipulation. The manipulation unit 200 may be installed on the inside of the outer door 60. The manipulation unit 200 may be installed in the inner space of the cap decoration 62 forming the lower end of the outer door 60. The manipulation unit 200 may be exposed by the cap decoration 62 and rotated by a user's manipulation.

[0088] The locking device may further include a connection unit 300 connecting the latch unit 100 and the manipulation unit 200.

[0089] The connection unit 300 may be provided between the latch unit 100 and the manipulation unit 200. The connection unit 300 may selectively contact the latch unit 100 to transfer or convert the displacement of the manipulation unit 200 into the displacement of the latch unit 100.

[0090] The connection unit 300 can transmit the pressurized force received from the manipulation unit 200 to the latch unit 100. The connection unit 300 can be installed inside the outer door 60.

[0091] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a locking device according to the first embodiment installed in a cap decoration. FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the manipulation unit of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the manipulation lever of FIG. 5.

[0092] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating FIG. 6 viewed from a different direction.

[0093] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the manipulation unit with the manipulation lever removed. FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a contact lever according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a longitudinal-sectional view illustrating the contact lever. FIG. 11 is a longitudinal-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 4.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 11, the manipulation unit 200 may include a lever housing 210. The manipulation unit 200 may further include a manipulation lever 220 accommodated within the lever housing 210. The manipulation unit 200 may further include a contact lever 230 accommodated within the lever housing 210.

[0095] The lever housing 210 may be installed on the inside of the outer door 60. The lever housing 210 may be installed on the lower end of the outer door 60. For example, the lever housing 210 may be installed on the inside of the cap decoration 62. The lever housing 210 may be formed of a plastic injection molded product. The lever housing 210 may be detachably coupled to the inside of the cap decoration 62.

[0096] The lever housing 210 may form an internal space. The lever housing 210 may have an open shape on the lower surface. The lever housing 210 may be formed to be elongated in the left and right direction according to the shape of the cap decoration 62.

[0097] The manipulation lever 220 may be accommodated inside the lever housing 210. The contact lever 230 may be accommodated inside the lever housing 210. The manipulation lever 220 and the contact lever 230 may be spaced apart from each other. The manipulation lever 220 may be disposed on the inner lower side of the lever housing 210. The contact lever 230 may be disposed on the inner upper portion of the lever housing 210. The manipulation lever 220 may be disposed at the rear of the contact lever 230. When the manipulation lever 220 rotates and moves, a portion of the manipulation lever 220 may contact and pressurize the contact lever 230.

[0098] The lever housing 210 may include a lever housing body 211 forming an internal space. The lever housing body 211 may have a shape in which the upper surface and the side surface are closed. The lever housing body 211 may have a shape in which the lower surface is open. The lever housing body 211 may be formed to be elongated from side to side as a whole.

[0099] The lever housing 210 may further include a manipulation lever mounting part 213 on which the manipulation lever 220 is mounted. The manipulation lever mounting part 213 may be formed on the inside of the lever housing body 211.

[0100] The interior of the lever housing body 211 may include a lever accommodation groove 212a in which a portion of the manipulation lever 220 is received. The interior of the lever housing body 211 may include a gripping groove 212b in which a user's hand can be gripped. The lever accommodation groove 212a and the gripping groove 212b may be partitioned by the manipulation lever mounting part 213. The user can open the outer door 60 alone by inserting his hand into the lever accommodation groove 212a and manipulating the manipulation lever 220. The user can open the inner door 50 and the outer door 60 together by inserting his hand into the gripping groove 212b.

[0101] The manipulation lever mounting part 213 may be formed to protrude downward from the upper surface of the lever housing body 211. The manipulation lever mounting part 213 may have a cylindrical shape. The manipulation lever mounting part 213 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an empty interior. The manipulation lever mounting part 213 may have a lower surface and a portion of a side surface open.

[0102] The manipulation lever mounting part 213 may be formed with a manipulation lever accommodation part 214 in which the manipulation lever 220 is mounted. The manipulation lever accommodation part 214 may be formed to extend upward from the lower surface of the manipulation lever mounting part 213. The manipulation lever accommodation part 214 may extend to a portion of the side surface of the manipulation lever mounting part 213. Accordingly, the lower surface and the side surface of the manipulation lever accommodation part 214 may be exposed to the outside.

[0103] The lever housing 210 may further include a contact lever mounting part 215 on which the contact lever 230 is mounted. The contact lever mounting part 215 may be formed on the upper surface of the lever housing body 211. The contact lever mounting part 215 may be formed by extending a portion of the upper surface of the lever housing body 211 upward.

[0104] The contact lever mounting part 215 may be formed on the upper surface of the lever housing body 211 corresponding to the upper portion of the lever accommodation groove 212a. The contact lever mounting part 215 may have a hexahedral shape. The contact lever mounting part 215 may have a shape in which the upper surface and side surfaces are closed. The contact lever mounting part 215 may have a shape in which the lower surface is open.

[0105] The contact lever mounting part 215 may have a contact lever accommodation part 216 formed therein, into which the contact lever 230 is mounted. The contact lever accommodation part 216 may have a hexahedral shape. The contact lever accommodation part 216 may be connected to the lever accommodation groove 212a.

[0106] A through-hole 217 through which the connection unit 300 passes may be formed on the upper surface of the contact lever mounting part 215. The through-hole 217 may be formed to have a diameter larger than the diameter of the connection unit 300. The connection unit 300 may pass through the through-hole 217 and be connected to the contact lever 230.

[0107] The manipulation lever 220 may include a first lever member 221 that is rotatably coupled within the manipulation lever mounting part 213. The first lever member 221 may be rotated at a predetermined angle with respect to an axis perpendicular to the ground. The first lever member 221 may be installed so as to be rotatable with respect to the rotation axis in the front and rear direction.

[0108] The first lever member 221 may include a rotation part 221a disposed inside the manipulation lever mounting part 213. The first lever member 221 may include a pressing part 221b extending from the rotation part 221a.

[0109] The rotation part 221a may be formed to be elongated in a direction perpendicular to the ground or in a direction of up and down. The rotation part 221a may have a rotation axis. The rotation axis may be perpendicular to the ground.

[0110] The pressing part 221b may be formed to extend outward from the outer surface of the rotation part 221a. The pressing part 221b may be formed to extend radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the rotation part 221a. The pressing part 221b may be formed to be rounded so as to have a constant curvature.

[0111] When the manipulation lever 220 is mounted on the manipulation lever mounting part 213, the pressing part 221b can be disposed on the lever accommodation groove 212a of the lever housing 210. As the pressing part 221b is exposed on the lever accommodation groove 212a, the user can pull the pressing part 221b to horizontally move the pressing part 221b forward.

[0112] The manipulation lever 220 may further include a first elastic member 222 that is connected to the first lever member 221 and provides elasticity.

[0113] The first elastic member 222 may be disposed inside the manipulation lever mounting part 213. The first elastic member 222 may elastically support an end portion of the first lever member 221. The first elastic member 222 may be fitted to the end portion of the first lever member 221. The first elastic member 222 may be interposed between the upper surface of the manipulation lever mounting part 213 and the upper end of the first lever member 221.

[0114] The first elastic member 222 may include, for example, a torsion spring. The first elastic member 222 may be formed by winding a wire multiple times. The first elastic member 222 may be formed in a cylindrical or conical shape.

[0115] The first elastic member 222 can elastically support the first lever member 221. The first elastic member 222 can maintain the first lever member 221 in a state where it is rotated in the first direction. In other words, unless an external force is applied, the first lever member 221 maintains a state where it is rotated in the first direction with respect to an axis perpendicular to the ground, but when an external force is applied, the first lever member 221 can be rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0116] The manipulation lever 220 may further include a lever cover 223 coupled to the first lever member 221.

[0117] The lever cover 223 can be coupled to the manipulation lever mounting part 213. The lever cover 223 can cover the first lever member 221. The lever cover 223 can support the lower end of the first lever member 221. The lever cover 223 can prevent the lever cover 223 from being detached downward.

[0118] The contact lever 230 can be manipulated by the operation of the manipulation lever 220. The contact lever 230 can be installed to be movable in the direction of up and down according to the contact of the manipulation lever 220. When the manipulation lever 220 is rotated and moved, a portion of the manipulation lever 220 can pressurize the contact lever 230.

[0119] The contact lever 230 may be installed in the contact lever mounting part 215. The contact lever 230 may be disposed spaced apart in front of the manipulation lever 220. The contact lever 230 may include a second lever member 231 that is movably coupled within the contact lever mounting part 216.

[0120] The second lever member 231 may include a lever body 231a. The lever body 231a may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The lever body 231a may be formed to be elongated in the vertical direction. The lever body 231a may be disposed perpendicular to the ground within the contact lever mounting part 216.

[0121] The lever body 231a may have a portion accommodated inside the contact lever mounting part 215. Another portion of the lever body 231a may be exposed to the outside of the contact lever mounting part 215. Specifically, the upper portion of the lever body 231a may be accommodated inside the contact lever mounting part 215. The lower portion of the lever body 231a may protrude into the lever accommodation groove 212a. A portion of the lever body 231a protruding into the lever accommodation groove 212a may come into contact with a portion of the manipulation lever 220.

[0122] The second lever member 231 may further include a contact surface 231b formed at an end portion of the lever body 231a. The contact surface 231b may be formed at a lower end portion of the lever body 231a. The contact surface 231b may face the first lever member 221. The contact surface 231b may form a lower surface or a lower end of the lever body 231a. The contact surface 231b may be understood as a portion that comes into contact with the manipulation lever 220 when the manipulation lever 220 rotates and moves.

[0123] The contact surface 231b may be formed to be inclined. When the contact surface 231b comes into contact with the manipulation lever 220, it may slide upward along the upper surface of the manipulation lever 220. The contact surface 231b may slope upward from the front to the rear.

[0124] When the manipulation lever 220 pushes the contact lever 230, the contact surface 231b of the contact lever 230 can move along the end portion of the manipulation lever 220 to be raised or lowered. A pressurizing surface 221c that contacts the contact surface 231b may be formed on the first lever member 221 of the manipulation lever 220. The pressurizing surface 221c may be formed to be inclined or rounded.

[0125] The second lever member 231 may further include a lever flange 231c extending outward from the lever body 231a.

[0126] The lever flange 231c may extend radially from the outer perimeter of the lever body 231a. The lever flange 231c may be formed to surround the outer peripheral surface of the lever body 231a in a circular shape. The diameter of the lever flange 231c may be formed to be larger than the diameter of the lever body 231a.

[0127] The contact lever 230 may further include a second elastic member 232 that is connected to the second lever member 231 to provide elasticity. The contact lever 230 may further include a lever case 233 that accommodates the second lever member 231. The contact lever 230 may further include a lever cover 234 that is coupled to the lever case 233.

[0128] The second elastic member 232 is disposed inside the lever case 233 and can elastically support the second lever member 231. The second elastic member 232 can be fitted into the lever body 231a of the second lever member 231. The second elastic member 232 can be supported by contact with the lever flange 231c of the second lever member 231. The second elastic member 232 can be interposed between the second lever member 231 and the lever cover 234.

[0129] The second elastic member 232 may be a compression spring. The second elastic member 232 may be maintained in a compressed state inside the lever case 233. The second elastic member 232 may elastically support the second lever member 231. The second elastic member 232 may maintain the state where the second lever member 231 is moved downward. In other words, unless an external force is applied, the second lever member 231 may be maintained in a state where it is moved downward, but when an external force is applied, the second lever member 231 may be moved upward.

[0130] When the second lever member 231 is raised or lowered by an external force, the second elastic member 232 is compressed, and when the external force is removed, the second lever member 231 can be lowered to the original position by the restoring force of the second elastic member 232.

[0131] The lever case 233 can accommodate the second lever member 231. The lever case 232 can accommodate the second elastic member 232. The lever case 233 can form an internal space that accommodates the second lever member 231 and the second elastic member 232. The lever case 233 can be inserted into the inside of the contact lever mounting part 215.

[0132] The lever case 233 may have a portion open at the lower surface. The second lever member 231 may be inserted into the lever case 233. The lever case 233 may have a portion of the upper surface open so that the connection unit 300 may pass through the portion thereof.

[0133] The connection unit 300 can be connected to the contact lever 230 through the upper surface of the lever case 233 after passing through the through-hole 217 of the contact lever mounting part 215. The connection unit 300 can be inserted into and coupled to the second lever member 231.

[0134] The lever cover 234 can be coupled to the upper portion of the lever case 233. The lever cover 234 can prevent the second lever member 231 and the second elastic member 232 installed inside the lever case 233 from being detached to the outside.

[0135] The second lever member 231 may be first fitted into the inside of the lever case 233 and the second elastic member 232 may be installed. The lever cover 234 may be coupled to the upper portion of the lever case 233 to support the end portion of the second elastic member 232.

[0136] FIGS. 12 and 13 are longitudinal-sectional views illustrating the contact lever being raised and lowered by the manipulation lever.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13 together, as described above, the manipulation lever 220 and the contact lever 230 are installed inside the lever housing 210.

[0138] The manipulation lever 220 may be disposed at the inner lower portion of the lever housing 210, and the contact lever 230 may be disposed at the inner lower portion of the lever housing 210. In addition, the contact lever 230 may be disposed spaced apart from the front of the manipulation lever 220.

[0139] As long as the initial state or external force is not applied, the manipulation lever 220 and the contact lever 230 can be maintained in a spaced state. A user can pull the manipulation lever 220 from the rear to the front (or from the inside to the outside) using a hand. When the manipulation lever 220 is pulled, the pressing part 221b of the manipulation lever 220 can rotate and move forward, thereby pressurizing the contact lever 230. At this time, the first elastic member 222 can be compressed.

[0140] As illustrated in FIG. 12, when the manipulation lever 220 pressurize the contact lever 230, the contact surface 231b of the contact lever 230 can be raised and lowered along the pressurizing surface 221c of the manipulation lever 220 to compress the second elastic member 232.

[0141] In addition, when the manipulation lever 220 is pulled as far as possible, the pressing part 221b of the manipulation lever 220 moves further forward as illustrated in FIG. 13, so that the lower end of the contact lever 230 can be supported by the upper end of the pressing part 221b.

[0142] When the contact lever 230 moves upward, the connection unit 300 connected to the contact lever 230 pressurizes the latch unit 100 to rotate the latch unit 100. When the latch unit 100 rotates, the latch unit 100 is released from the restraint state thereof in the latch accommodation part 52, and the outer door 60 can be opened independently.

[0143] Meanwhile, when the external force applied to the manipulation lever 220 disappears, the manipulation lever 220 can be moved from the front to the rear (or from the outside to the inside) and returned by the restoring force of the first elastic member 222. In addition, the contact lever 230 can be lowered to the original position by the restoring force of the second elastic member 232.

[0144] When the contact lever 230 is lowered, the connection unit 300 connected to the contact lever 230 is spaced apart from the latch unit 100, and the latch unit 100 can be rotated in the opposite direction to return to the original position thereof.

[0145] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view illustrating the latch unit according to the first embodiment being restrained in the latch accommodation part. FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view illustrating a latch lever according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a front perspective view illustrating the latch lever. FIG. 17 is a longitudinal-sectional view taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 14. FIG. 18 is a longitudinal-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 14.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 18, the latch unit 100 according to the present embodiment may be installed on one side of the outer door 60. The latch unit 100 may be installed on the rear surface of the outer door 60. The latch unit 100 may be selectively coupled to a latch accommodation part 52 formed on the inner door 50.

[0147] The latch unit 100 may include a latch lever 110 inserted into the latch accommodation part 52. The latch unit 100 may further include a third elastic member 120 connected to the latch lever 110 to provide elasticity.

[0148] The latch unit 100 may further include a latch housing 130 that accommodates the latch lever 110. The latch housing 130 may accommodate the third elastic member 120. The latch unit 100 may further include a latch cover 140 coupled to the latch housing 130.

[0149] The latch lever 110 can be rotated about a rotation axis while being accommodated inside the latch housing 130. The latch lever 110 can be formed long in a direction parallel to the ground. The latch lever 110 can be rotated about a rotation center axis C that is parallel to the ground.

[0150] The latch lever 110 includes a body part 111. The latch lever 110 may further include an extension part 112 extending axially from the body part 111. The latch lever 110 may further include a restraining part 113 extending radially from the extension part 112.

[0151] The body part 111 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The body part 111 may be accommodated inside the latch housing 130. The body part 111 may be coupled to the inside of the latch housing 130. The body part 111 may be disposed horizontally with respect to the ground inside the latch housing 130. The body part 111 may be provided to be rotatable inside the latch housing 130. The body part 111 may be rotated about a rotation center axis C horizontally with respect to the ground inside the latch housing 130.

[0152] The body part 111 may include a pressurizing part 111a that is pressurized by the connection unit 300. The pressurizing part 111a may be formed to extend from one side of the body part 111. When the pressurizing part 111a is pressurized by the connection unit 300, the body part 111 may be rotated by a certain angle with respect to the rotation center axis C.

[0153] The pressurizing part 111a may extend outward from the outer surface of the body part 111. The pressurizing part 111a may extend radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the body part 111.

[0154] The body part 111 may further include a bending part 111b formed in the pressurizing part 111a. The bending part 111b may be formed by bending an end portion of the pressurizing part 111a. The bending part 111b may extend in a direction perpendicular to the pressurizing part 111a.

[0155] For example, the pressurizing part 111a may extend in a direction parallel to the ground from the peripheral surface of the body part 111. The bending part 111b may extend in a direction perpendicular to the ground from the end portion of the pressurizing part 111a.

[0156] The bending part 111b extends vertically from the end portion of the pressurizing part 11la, thereby preventing the connection unit 300 from being spaced apart from the pressurizing part 111a during the process of the connection unit 300 pushing the pressurizing part 111a.

[0157] In another aspect, the connection unit 300 is disposed in the space formed between the pressurizing part 111a and the bending part 111b, so that the connection unit 300 can stably pressurize the pressurizing part 111a and prevent the connection unit 300 from being separated from the pressurizing part 111a.

[0158] The body part 111 may further include a coupling part 111c to which the third elastic member 120 is coupled. The coupling part 111c may extend outward from the outer surface of the body part 111. The coupling part 111c may extend radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the body part 111. For example, the coupling part 111c may be formed in a hook shape.

[0159] The pressurizing part 111a may be disposed axially rearward of the body part 110. The coupling part 111c may be disposed axially forward of the body part 110. The coupling part 111c may be disposed forward of the pressurizing part 111a.

[0160] The pressurizing part 111a and the coupling part 111c may be disposed adjacently on the peripheral surface of the body part 110. For example, the pressurizing part 111a may extend in a direction parallel to the ground on the peripheral surface of the body part 111. The coupling part 111c may extend in a direction parallel to the ground on the peripheral surface of the body part 111 corresponding to the front of the pressurizing part 111a. The pressurizing part 111a and the coupling part 111c may overlap at least partially in the front and rear direction.

[0161] The body part 111 may further include a seating groove 111d that is seated on the latch housing 130. The seating groove 111d may be formed by recessing one side of the body part 111.

[0162] The seating groove 111d may be formed by recessing the front surface of the body part 111. The seating groove 111d may be formed by recessing a portion of the front surface of the body part 111 toward the rear. The seating protrusion 133 formed on the latch housing 130 may be inserted into and seated in the seating groove 111d.

[0163] The body part 111 may further include a fastening groove 111e. The fastening groove 111e may be formed by being further recessed inward from the seating groove 111d. A fastening member may be inserted through the fastening groove 111e. The fastening groove 111e may be formed at a point corresponding to the rotational center axis of the body part 111.

[0164] The extension part 112 may extend axially from the body part 111. The extension part 112 may extend rearward from the rear surface of the body part 111. The extension part 112 may extend rearward from the center of the rear surface of the body part 111. The diameter of the extension part 112 may be formed smaller than the diameter of the body part 111.

[0165] The extension part 112 may be disposed between the outer door 60 and the inner door 50. The extension part 112 may pass through the latch cover 140. The extension part 112 may pass through the latch accommodation part 52 after passing through the latch cover 140. The extension part 112 may be supported by being fitted to the latch cover 140.

[0166] The restraining part 113 may be formed at the end portion of the extension part 112. The restraining part 113 may be coupled to the inside of the latch accommodation part 52. The restraining part 113 may be formed at the rear end portion of the extension part 112. The restraining part 113 may rotate together with the latch lever 110 when the hatch lever rotates, and may be selectively engaged or restrained on the inside of the latch accommodation part 52.

[0167] The restraining part 113 may extend radially outward from the end portion of the extension part 112. The restraining part 113 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis C from the end portion of the extension part 112. For example, the restraining part 113 may be formed in a screw shape or a wave shape. The outer surface of the restraining part 113 may be formed to be inclined or rounded.

[0168] The restraining part 113 may include a center part 113a formed at an end portion of the extension part 112. The restraining part 113 may further include a latch part 113b extending from one side of the center part 113a. The latch part 113b may be formed in one or more pieces. For example, the latch part 113b may include a pair of latch parts 113b formed on each side of the center part 113a.

[0169] The pair of latch parts 113b may each protrude radially from the center part 113a. The pair of latch parts 113b may protrude in opposite directions from the center part 113a. The pair of latch parts 113b may be formed symmetrically with respect to the center part 113a.

[0170] The pair of latch parts 113b may be disposed on the inside of the latch accommodation part 52 by penetrating the insertion port 53 formed in the latch accommodation part 52. At this time, the length from one end portion to the other end portion of the pair of latch parts 113b may be formed to be longer than the width or the horizontal length of the insertion port 53. In addition, the length from one end portion to the other end portion of the pair of latch parts 113b may be formed to be shorter than the height or the vertical length of the insertion port 53.

[0171] Accordingly, when the pair of latch parts 113b are disposed in a direction horizontal to the ground or diagonally, the pair of latch parts 113b can be restrained in the insertion port 53. In addition, when the pair of latch parts 113b are disposed in a direction vertical to the ground, the pair of latch parts 113b can be released from the restraint on the insertion port 53. By the rotational motion of the pair of latch parts 113b, the latch lever 110 can be selectively restrained in the latch accommodation part 52.

[0172] The latch part 113b may include an inclined surface. The inclined surface may have an outer surface that is inclined or rounded. The latch part 113b may have a screw shape in which the outer surface is continuously inclined or rounded.

[0173] When the outer door 60 is opened alone, the latch part 113b can be released from the insertion port 53 of the latch accommodation part 52 and returned to its original state. When the outer door 60 is closed with the latch part 113b returned to the original state thereof, the latch part 113b moves along the inclined surface formed on the inner side of the latch accommodation part 52, and the latch lever 110 naturally rotates and the latch part 113b can be engaged or restrained in the insertion port 53.

[0174] The latch accommodation part 52 may be disposed to face the latch unit 100. The latch accommodation part 52 may be installed on the inner or rear surface of the outer door 60.

[0175] The latch accommodation part 52 may have an insertion port 53 formed on the inside. The latch accommodation part 52 may be formed in a plate shape. The latch lever 110 may pass through the inside of the insertion port 53. An inclined surface 54 may be formed on the inside of the insertion port 53.

[0176] The inclined surface 54 may be configured so that when the latch lever 110 passes through the latch accommodation part 52 from the front side to the rear side, the latch lever 110 naturally rotates and is engaged or restrained in the insertion port 53.

[0177] The inclined surface 54 may be formed on each of the inner sides of the latch accommodation part 52. At least a portion of the inclined surface 54 may be formed to be inclined or rounded. The inclined surface 54 may be rounded to have a certain curvature.

[0178] The third elastic member 120 may be disposed inside the latch housing 130. The third elastic member 120 may elastically support the latch lever 110. The third elastic member 120 may connect the latch housing 130 and the latch lever 110.

[0179] The third elastic member 120 may be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the latch lever 110. One end of the third elastic member 120 may be coupled to the latch housing 130. The other end of the third elastic member 120 may be coupled to the coupling part 111c. The third elastic member 120 may limit the amount of rotation or the angle of rotation of the latch lever 110.

[0180] The third elastic member 120 may be a tension spring. When the latch lever 110 is rotated by an external force, the third elastic member 120 is tensioned, and when the external force disappears, the latch lever 110 can be rotated and returned to the original position thereof by the restoring force of the third elastic member 120.

[0181] In this embodiment, when the latch lever 110 rotates in the first direction with respect to the rotation center axis C, the restraining part 113 may be restrained on the inside of the latch accommodation part 52.

[0182] In addition, when the latch lever 110 rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the rotation center axis C, the restraining part 113 can be released from restraint on the inside of the latch accommodation part 52.

[0183] The latch housing 130 can accommodate the latch lever 110. The latch housing 130 can accommodate the third elastic member 120. The latch housing 130 can be installed on one side of the outer door 60.

[0184] The latch housing 130 may include a latch housing body 131. The latch housing body 131 may form an internal space 132 that accommodates the latch lever 110. The internal space 132 may accommodate the third elastic member 120.

[0185] The latch housing 130 may have a roughly hexahedral shape. The latch housing 130 may include a front surface, a side surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, and a rear surface. A portion of the rear surface of the latch housing 130 may be opened. The latch cover 140 may be coupled to the opened rear surface of the latch housing 130.

[0186] The latch housing 130 may further include a seating protrusion 133 for mounting the latch lever 110.

[0187] The seating protrusion 133 may be formed on the front surface of the latch housing 130. The seating protrusion 133 may be formed to protrude rearward from the inner front surface of the latch housing 130. The seating protrusion 133 may be inserted into the seating groove 111d of the latch lever 110. The latch lever 110 may be supported on the latch housing 130 by the seating protrusion 133.

[0188] The seating protrusion 133 may include a fastening hole 134 through which a fastening member passes. The fastening hole 134 may be formed by penetrating the interior of the seating protrusion 133.

[0189] The fastening hole 134 may be formed at the center of the seating protrusion 133. The fastening hole 134 may be formed at a point corresponding to the rotational center axis C of the latch lever 110. When the latch lever 110 is seated to the seating protrusion 133, the fastening hole 134 may be aligned parallel to the fastening groove 111e.

[0190] The latch housing 130 may further include a coupling part 35 to which the third elastic member 130 is coupled. The coupling part 35 may be formed on the lower surface of the latch housing 130. The coupling part 35 may support the lower end of the third elastic member 130.

[0191] The latch housing 130 may further include a through-hole 136 through which the connection unit 300 passes. The through-hole 136 may be formed on the lower surface of the latch housing 130. The connection unit 300 may pass through the through-hole 136 and be disposed inside the latch housing 130. The connection unit 300 may be disposed at a position where an end portion thereof pushes up the pressurizing part 111a. The end portion of the connection unit 300 may be disposed below the pressurizing part 111a.

[0192] The latch housing 130 may further include a coupling protrusion 137, 138 for coupling with the latch cover 140. The coupling protrusion 137, 138 may be formed in one or more pieces.

[0193] The coupling protrusions 137, 138 may include a first coupling protrusion 137 formed on the upper surface of the latch housing 130. The coupling protrusions 137, 138 may further include a second coupling protrusion 138 formed on the lower surface of the latch housing 130. The first coupling protrusion 137 may protrude downward from the upper surface of the latch housing 130. The second coupling protrusion 138 may protrude upward from the lower surface of the latch housing 130. The first coupling protrusion 137 and the second coupling protrusion 138 may be disposed at positions facing each other.

[0194] The latch housing 130 may further include a first through-hole 139 through which the latch lever 110 passes. An extension part 112 of the latch lever 110 may pass through and be inserted into the first through-hole 139. The first through-hole 139 may support an outer peripheral surface of the extension part 112.

[0195] The first through-hole 139 may be formed on the rear surface of the latch housing 130. The first through-hole 139 may be formed by penetrating a portion of the rear surface of the latch housing 130. The first through-hole 139 may be formed in an arc shape. The first through-hole 139 may have a radius equal to or greater than the radius of the extension part 112. The first through-hole 139 may be formed in a semicircular shape.

[0196] The latch cover 140 can be coupled to the rear surface of the latch housing 130. The latch cover 140 can be detachably coupled to an open portion on the rear surface of the latch housing 140.

[0197] The latch cover 140 may include a cover body 141. The cover body 141 may be coupled to shield the opened rear surface of the latch housing 130. The cover body 141 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the opened rear surface of the latch housing 130. The cover body 141 may have a square plate shape.

[0198] The cover body 141 may further include a second through-hole 142 through which the latch lever 110 passes. The extension part 112 of the latch lever 110 may be inserted into the second through-hole 142. The second through-hole 142 may support a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the extension part 112.

[0199] The second through-hole 142 may be formed on the rear surface of the cover body 141. The second through-hole 142 may be formed by penetrating a portion of the rear surface of the cover body 141. The second through-hole 142 may be formed in an arc shape. The second through-hole 142 may have a radius equal to or greater than the radius of the extension part 112. The second through-hole 142 may be formed in a semicircular shape.

[0200] The first through-hole 139 and the second through-hole 142 may be connected to each other. When the latch cover 140 is coupled to the latch housing 130, the first through-hole 139 and the second through-hole 142 may be connected to form a circle. The first through-hole 139 and the second through-hole 142 may support the outer perimeter of the extension part 112 together. The first through-hole 139 may support a portion of the extension part 112. The second through-hole 142 may support the remaining portion of the extension part 112.

[0201] The front end portion of the latch lever 110 can be inserted into the seating groove 111d and fastened by a fastening member. In addition, a portion of the latch lever 110 is inserted into the first through-hole 139 and the second through-hole 142, so that the latch lever 110 can be stably supported on the latch housing 130.

[0202] The latch lever 110 has a body part 111 with a relatively large diameter inserted into the inside of the latch housing 130, and an extension part 112 with a relatively small diameter inserted into the latch housing 130, so that the movement of the latch lever 110 in the front and rear direction is restricted and the phenomenon of sagging downward thereof can be prevented.

[0203] The latch cover 140 may further include a cover extension part 143, 144 extending from the cover body 141. The cover extension part 143, 144 may extend forward from the front surface of the cover body 141. The cover extension part 143, 144 may be understood as a configuration for coupling the latch cover 140 to the latch housing 130.

[0204] The cover extension part 143, 144 may include a first extension part 143 extending from the upper portion of the cover body 141. The cover extension part 143, 144 may further include a second extension part 144 extending from the lower portion of the cover body 141.

[0205] The first extension part 143 may extend forward from the upper front surface of the cover body 141. The first extension part 143 may be coupled by contacting the upper surface of the latch housing 130.

[0206] The second extension part 144 may extend forward from the lower front surface of the cover body 141. The second extension part 144 may be in contact with and coupled to the lower surface of the latch housing 130.

[0207] The cover extension part 143, 144 may further include a coupling groove 145, 146 that is coupled to the coupling protrusion 137, 138 of the latch housing 130. The coupling groove 145, 146 may be formed in an area corresponding to the coupling protrusion 137, 138. The coupling groove 145, 146 may be formed by recessing a portion of the outer side of the cover extension part 143, 144.

[0208] The coupling groove 145, 146 may include a first coupling groove 145 formed in the first extension part 144. The coupling groove 145, 146 may further include a second coupling groove 146 formed in the second extension part 145.

[0209] The first coupling groove 145 may be formed by a portion of the upper surface of the first extension part 143 being recessed. The upper portion of the latch cover 140 may be assembled by fitting the first coupling groove 145 into the first coupling protrusion 137.

[0210] The second coupling groove 146 may be formed by a portion of the lower surface of the second extension part 144 being recessed. The lower portion of the latch cover 140 may be assembled by fitting the second coupling groove 146 into the second coupling protrusion 138.

[0211] FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating the restraining part of the latch unit restrained in the latch accommodation part. FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating the inside of the latch housing with the restraining part of the latch unit restrained in the latch accommodation part. FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating the restraining part of the latch unit being released from the latch accommodation part. FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating the inside of the latch housing with the restraining part of the latch unit released from the latch accommodation part.

[0212] FIGS. 20 and 22 are rear views of the latch unit with the latch cover removed. Referring to FIGS. 19 to 22, the operation of the latch unit will be described.

[0213] First, when the outer door 60 is completely closed, the restraining part 113 of the latch lever 110 is engaged or restrained in the insertion port 53 of the latch accommodation part 52.

[0214] In this state, if the user wants to open the outer door 60 independently, by pulling the first lever member 221 of the manipulation lever 220, the first lever member 221 can move horizontally forward based on the rotation axis.

[0215] When the first lever member 221 moves forward, the first lever member 221 can push up the second lever member 231 of the contact lever 230 located in front of the first lever member 221.

[0216] Since the second lever member 231 is connected to the lower end of the connection unit 300, the connection unit 300 can move upward due to the raising and lowering of the second lever member 231.

[0217] When the connection unit 300 moves upward, the upper end of the connection unit 300 pressurizes the pressurizing part 111a upward so that the latch lever 110 can be rotated in the direction of opening.

[0218] When the latch lever 110 is rotated in the opening direction, the restraining part 113 of the latch lever 110 is rotated together, and the restraining part 113 can be released from the latch accommodation part 52. Accordingly, the outer door 60 can be opened independently. In the open state of the latch lever 110, the first elastic member 222 can be compressed, the second elastic member 232 can be compressed, and the third elastic member 120 can be tensioned.

[0219] In addition, when the hand pulling the first lever member 221 is released after the external door 60 is opened, the first lever member 221 can be returned by horizontally moving backwards based on the rotation axis due to the elastic restoring force of the first elastic member 222.

[0220] When the first lever member 221 moves backward, the second lever member 231 can be lowered by the elastic restoring force of the second elastic member 232. In addition, due to the lowering of the second lever member 231, the connection unit 300 can be moved downward.

[0221] When the connection unit 300 moves downward, the upper end of the connection unit 300 is separated from the pressurizing part 111a, and the latch lever 110 can be rotated in the closing direction by the elastic restoring force of the third elastic member 120 to return to the initial state.

[0222] When the outer door 60 is closed with the latch lever 110 returned to the initial state thereof, the restraining part 113 of the latch lever 110 rotates along the inclined surface of the latch accommodation part 52, and the latch lever 110 naturally rotates and the restraining part 113 can be caught and restrained in the insertion port 53.

[0223] FIG. 23 is a rear perspective view illustrating the latch unit according to the second embodiment being restrained in the latch accommodation part. FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view illustrating the latch unit of FIG. 23. FIG. 25 is a longitudinal-sectional view taken along line 25-25 of FIG. 23.

[0224] FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view illustrating a latch housing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 27 is a rear view illustrating a latch housing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 28 is a front view illustrating a latch housing according to the second embodiment.

[0225] FIG. 29 is a rear perspective view illustrating a latch lever according to the second embodiment. FIG. 30 is a front perspective view illustrating a latch lever according to the second embodiment. FIG. 31 is a front view illustrating a latch lever according to the second embodiment.

[0226] The second embodiment is identical to the first embodiment in other portions, except that it differs in the configuration of the latch unit. Therefore, only the characteristic portions of the second embodiment will be described below, and the portions identical to the first embodiment will be referenced.

[0227] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 31, a latch unit 400 according to the second embodiment can be installed on one side of an outer door 60. The latch unit 400 can be installed on the rear surface of the outer door 60. The latch unit 400 can be selectively coupled to a latch accommodation part 52 formed on the inner door 50.

[0228] The latch unit 400 may include a latch lever 410 inserted into the latch accommodation part 52. The latch unit 400 may further include a third elastic member 420 connected to the latch lever 410 to provide elasticity. The latch unit 400 may further include a latch housing 430 that accommodates the latch lever 410. The latch housing 430 may accommodate the third elastic member 420.

[0229] The latch lever 410 can be rotated about a rotation axis while being accommodated inside the latch housing 430. The latch lever 410 can be formed to be long in a direction parallel to the ground. The latch lever 410 can be rotated about a rotation center axis C that is parallel to the ground.

[0230] The latch lever 410 may include a body part 411. The latch lever 410 may further include a restraining part 412 extending radially from the body part 411.

[0231] The body part 411 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The body part 411 may be accommodated inside the latch housing 430. The body part 411 may be coupled to the inside of the latch housing 430. The body part 411 may be disposed horizontally with respect to the ground inside the latch housing 430. The body part 411 may be provided to be rotatable inside the latch housing 430. The body part 411 may be rotated about a rotation center axis C horizontal with respect to the ground inside the latch housing 430.

[0232] The body part 411 may be disposed between the outer door 60 and the inner door 50. The body part 411 may be exposed to the outside by passing through the latch housing 430. The body part 411 may pass through the latch accommodation part 52 after passing through the latch housing 430. The body part 411 may be supported by being fitted into the latch housing 430.

[0233] The restraining part 412 may be formed at an end portion of the body part 411. The restraining part 412 may be coupled to the inside of the latch accommodation part 52. The restraining part 412 may be formed at the rear end portion of the body part 411. The restraining part 412 may rotate together with the latch lever 410 when the latch lever rotates, and may be selectively engaged or restrained on the inside of the latch accommodation part 52.

[0234] The restraining part 412 may extend radially outward from an end portion of the body part 411. The restraining part 412 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis C from the end portion of the body part 411. For example, the restraining part 412 may be formed in a screw shape or a wave shape. The outer surface of the restraining part 412 may be formed to be inclined or rounded.

[0235] The restraining part 412 may include a center part 412a formed at an end portion of the body part 411. The restraining part 412 may further include a latch part 412b extending from one side of the center part 412a. The latch part 412b may be formed in one or more pieces. For example, the latch part 412b may include a pair of latch parts 412b formed on each side of the center part 412a.

[0236] The pair of latch parts 412b may each protrude radially from the center part 412a. The pair of latch parts 412b may protrude in opposite directions from the center part 412a. The pair of latch parts 412b may be formed symmetrically with respect to the center part 412a.

[0237] The pair of latch parts 412b can pass through an insertion port 53 formed in the latch accommodation part 52. The pair of latch parts 412b can be located inside the latch accommodation part 52. The length from one end portion to the other end portion of the pair of latch parts 412b can be formed to be longer than the width or horizontal length of the insertion port 53. The length from one end portion to the other end portion of the pair of latch parts 412b can be formed to be shorter than the height or vertical length of the insertion port 53.

[0238] Accordingly, when the pair of latch parts 412b are disposed horizontally or diagonally with respect to the ground, the pair of latch parts 412b can be restrained in the insertion port 53. In addition, when the pair of latch parts 412b are disposed vertically with respect to the ground, the pair of latch parts 412b can be released from the restraint on the insertion port 53. By the rotational motion of the pair of latch parts 412b, the latch lever 410 can be selectively restrained in the latch accommodation part 52.

[0239] The latch part 412b may include an inclined surface. The inclined surface may have an outer surface that is inclined or rounded. The latch part 412b may have a screw shape in which the outer surface is continuously inclined or rounded.

[0240] When the outer door 60 is opened alone, the latch part 412b can be released from the insertion port 53 of the latch accommodation part 52 and returned to the original state thereof. When the outer door 60 is closed with the latch part 412b returned to the original state thereof, the latch part 412b moves along the inclined surface formed on the inner side of the latch accommodation part 52, and the latch lever 410 naturally rotates and the latch part 412b can be engaged or restrained in the insertion port 53.

[0241] The latch accommodation part 52 may be disposed to face the latch unit 400. The latch accommodation part 52 may be installed on the inner or rear surface of the outer door 60.

[0242] The latch accommodation part 52 may have an insertion port 53 formed on the inside. The latch accommodation part 52 may be formed in a plate shape. The latch lever 410 may pass through the inside of the insertion port 53. An inclined surface 54 may be formed on the inside of the insertion port 53.

[0243] The inclined surface 54 may be configured to allow the latch lever 410 to naturally rotate and engage the insertion port 53 when the latch lever 410 passes through the latch accommodation part 52 from the front side to the rear side.

[0244] The inclined surface 54 may be formed on each of the inner sides of the latch accommodation part 52. At least a portion of the inclined surface 54 may be formed to be inclined or rounded. The inclined surface 54 may be rounded to have a certain curvature.

[0245] The body part 411 may include a pressurizing part 413 that is pressurized by the connection unit 300. The pressurizing part 413 may be formed to extend from one side of the body part 411. When the pressurizing part 413 is pressurized by the connection unit 300, the body part 411 may be rotated by a certain angle with respect to the rotation center axis C.

[0246] The pressurizing part 413 may extend outward from the outer surface of the body part 411. The pressurizing part 413 may extend radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the body part 411. With reference to FIG. 28, when the restraining part 412 is disposed in a state parallel to the ground, the angle between the line passing through the restraining part 412 and the line passing through the pressurizing part 413 may be 45 degrees. When the restraining part 412 is disposed in a state parallel to the ground, the pressurizing part 413 may be disposed to be inclined downward from the lower side of the body part 411.

[0247] The body part 411 may further include a coupling part 414 to which the third elastic member 420 is coupled. The coupling part 414 may extend outward from the outer surface of the body part 411. The coupling part 414 may extend radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the body part 411. For example, the coupling part 414 may be formed in a hook shape.

[0248] The pressurizing part 413 may be disposed axially rearward of the body part 410. The coupling part 414 may be disposed axially forward of the body part 410. The coupling part 414 may be disposed forward of the pressurizing part 413.

[0249] The pressurizing part 413 and the connection part 414 may be disposed adjacently on the outer peripheral surface of the body part 410. For example, the angle between the pressurizing part 413 and the connection part 414 may be within 90 degrees.

[0250] The body part 411 may further include a protrusion part 415 that is seated on the latch housing 430. The protrusion part 415 may be formed by protruding one side of the body part 411.

[0251] The protrusion part 415 may be formed by protruding the front surface of the body part 411. The protrusion part 415 may be formed by protruding a portion of the front surface of the body part 411 forward. The protrusion part 415 may be inserted into an insertion hole 435 formed in the latch housing 430.

[0252] The third elastic member 420 may be disposed inside the latch housing 430. The third elastic member 420 may elastically support the latch lever 410. The third elastic member 420 may connect the latch housing 430 and the latch lever 410.

[0253] The third elastic member 420 may be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the latch lever 410. One end of the third elastic member 420 may be coupled to the latch housing 430. The other end of the third elastic member 420 may be coupled to the coupling part 414. The third elastic member 420 may limit the amount of rotation or the angle of rotation of the latch lever 410.

[0254] The third elastic member 420 may be a tension spring. When the latch lever 410 is rotated by an external force, the third elastic member 420 is tensioned, and when the external force disappears, the latch lever 410 can be rotated and returned to the original position thereof by the restoring force of the third elastic member 420.

[0255] In this embodiment, when the latch lever 410 rotates in the first direction with respect to the rotation center axis C, the restraining part 412 may be restrained on the inside of the latch accommodation part 52.

[0256] In addition, when the latch lever 410 rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the rotation center axis C, the restraining part 412 can be released from the restraint on the inside of the latch accommodation part 52.

[0257] The latch housing 430 can accommodate the latch lever 410. The latch housing 430 can accommodate the third elastic member 420. The latch housing 430 can be installed on one side of the outer door 60.

[0258] The latch housing 430 may include a latch housing body 431. The latch housing body 431 may form an internal space 432 that accommodates the latch lever 410. The internal space 432 may accommodate the third elastic member 420.

[0259] The latch housing 430 may have a roughly hexahedral shape. The latch housing 430 may include a front surface, a side surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, and a rear surface. A portion of the front surface and the upper surface of the latch housing 430 may be open.

[0260] The latch housing 430 may further include a latch through-hole 433 through which the latch lever 410 passes. The latch lever 410 may be inserted into the latch through-hole 433. The body part 411, the pressurizing part 413, and the coupling part 414 of the latch lever 410 may pass through the latch through-hole 433. The latch through-hole 433 may be formed by cutting out a portion of the rear surface of the latch housing 430.

[0261] The latch through-hole 433 may include a first through-hole 433a through which the body part 411 passes. The first through-hole 433a may be formed by penetrating the rear surface of the latch housing 430. The first through-hole 433a may have a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the body part 411. The body part 411 may be inserted into the first through-hole 433a. The first through-hole 433a may support the outer peripheral surface of the body part 411.

[0262] The latch through-hole 433 may further include a second through-hole 433b through which the pressurizing part 413 passes. The second through-hole 433b may be formed by penetrating the rear surface of the latch housing 430. The second through-hole 433b may be formed by extending one side of the first through-hole 433a. The second through-hole 132b may be formed by extending upward from the upper portion of the first through-hole 433a.

[0263] The latch through-hole 433 may further include a third through-hole 433c through which the coupling part 414 passes. The third through-hole 433c may be formed by penetrating the rear surface of the latch housing 430. The third through-hole 433c may be formed by extending one side of the first through-hole 433a. The third through-hole 433c may be formed by extending downward from the lower portion of the first through-hole 433a. The third through-hole 433c may extend to the lower end of the latch housing 430.

[0264] The latch housing 430 may further include a seating groove 434 for mounting the latch lever 410. A portion of the body part 411 may be inserted into the seating groove 434. The seating groove 434 may be formed on the inner front surface of the latch housing 430. The seating groove 434 may be formed by recessing the inner front side of the latch housing 430 forward. The seating groove 434 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the front surface of the body part 411.

[0265] The latch housing 430 may further include an insertion hole 435 into which the protrusion part 415 of the latch lever 410 is inserted. The insertion hole 435 may be formed by being further recessed forward from the seating groove 434. The insertion hole 435 may extend from the seating groove 434 to the front surface of the latch housing 430.

[0266] The front end portion of the latch lever 410 can be inserted into the seating groove 434 and the insertion hole 435. Since a portion of the latch lever 410 is inserted into the latch through-hole 433, the latch lever 410 can be stably supported on the latch housing 430.

[0267] In addition, since the latch through-hole 433 is formed to correspond to the shape of the latch lever 410, even if the latch lever 410 is rotated while inserted into the latch housing 430, the latch lever 410 can be prevented from being separated from the latch housing 430 or sagging downward.

[0268] The latch housing 430 may further include a coupling part 436 to which the third elastic member 130 is coupled. The coupling part 436 may be spaced apart from the upper side of the latch lever 410. The coupling part 436 may be formed on the inner surface of the latch housing 430. For example, the coupling part 436 may be formed on the inner side of the side surface of the latch housing 430. The coupling part 436 may be disposed on the upper side of the space into which the latch lever 410 is inserted. The coupling part 35 may support the upper end of the third elastic member 130.

[0269] The latch housing 430 may further include a through-hole 437 through which the connection unit 300 passes.

[0270] The through-hole 437 may be formed on the lower surface of the latch housing 430. The through-hole 437 may be formed by cutting a portion of the lower surface of the latch housing 430. The connection unit 300 may pass through the through-hole 437 and be disposed inside the latch housing 430. The connection unit 300 may be disposed at a position where an end portion thereof pushes up the pressurizing part 413. The end portion of the connection unit 300 may be disposed below the pressurizing part 413.

[0271] The latch housing 430 may further include an opening 438 for assembling the latch lever 410. For example, the opening 438 may be formed on a side surface of the latch housing 138. The opening 438 may be formed by cutting a portion of the side surface of the latch housing 138. A user may perform an assembly to connect the latch lever 410 and the third elastic member 420 through the opening 438.

[0272] FIGS. 32 and 33 are drawings illustrating the latch lever according to the second embodiment being rotated in the opening direction.

[0273] Referring to FIG. 23, FIG. 32 and FIG. 33, the operation of the latch unit will be described.

[0274] First, when the outer door 60 is completely closed, the restraining part 412 of the latch lever 410 is engaged or restrained in the insertion port 53 of the latch accommodation part 52.

[0275] In this state, if the user wants to open the inner door 60 independently, by pulling the first lever member 221 of the manipulation lever 220, the first lever member 221 can move horizontally forward based on the rotation axis.

[0276] When the first lever member 221 moves forward, the first lever member 221 can push up the second lever member 231 of the contact lever 230 located in front of the first lever member 221.

[0277] Since the second lever member 231 is connected to the lower end of the connection unit 300, the connection unit 300 can move upward due to the raising and lowering of the second lever member 231.

[0278] When the connection unit 300 moves upward, the upper end of the connection unit 300 pressurizes the pressurizing part 413 upward so that the latch lever 410 can be rotated in the opening direction.

[0279] When the latch lever 410 is rotated in the opening direction, the restraining part 412 of the latch lever 410 is rotated together, and the restraining part 412 can be released from the latch accommodation part 52. Accordingly, the outer door 60 can be opened independently. In the open state of the latch lever 410, the first elastic member 222 can be compressed, the second elastic member 232 can be compressed, and the third elastic member 420 can be tensioned.

[0280] In addition, when the hand pulling the first lever member 221 is released after the external door 60 is opened, the first lever member 221 can rotate about the rotation axis and move horizontally backward to return due to the elastic restoring force of the first elastic member 222.

[0281] When the first lever member 221 moves backward, the second lever member 231 can be lowered by the elastic restoring force of the second elastic member 232. In addition, due to the lowering of the second lever member 231, the connection unit 300 can be moved downward.

[0282] When the connection unit 300 moves downward, the upper end of the connection unit 300 is separated from the pressurizing part 413, and the latch lever 410 can be rotated in the closing direction by the elastic restoring force of the third elastic member 420 to return to the initial state.

[0283] When the outer door 60 is closed with the latch lever 410 returned to the initial state thereof, the restraining part 412 of the latch lever 410 rotates along the inclined surface of the latch accommodation part 52, and the latch lever 410 naturally rotates and the restraining part 412 can be engaged or restrained in the insertion port 53.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet forming a first storage section; an inner door opening and closing the first storage section and forming a second storage section; an outer door opening and closing the second storage section; a latch accommodation part provided in the inner door; and a locking device provided in the outer door and selectively engaged in the latch accommodation part, wherein the locking device includes: a manipulation unit provided in the outer door and displacing according to a user's manipulation; a latch unit spaced apart from the manipulation unit and provided to selectively engage the latch accommodation part; and a connection unit provided between the manipulation unit and the latch unit, selectively contacting the latch unit to transfer the displacement of the manipulation unit into the displacement of the latch unit.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the manipulation unit includes: a lever housing provided in the outer door; a manipulation lever installed within the lever housing to be rotatable and movable about a rotational axis in a front and rear direction; and a contact lever installed to be movable in a direction of up and down upon contact with the manipulation lever.

3. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the manipulation lever includes: a first lever member including a rotation part extending in the direction of up and down and a pressing part extending radially from the outer peripheral surface of the rotation part; and a first elastic member connected to the first lever member to provide elasticity.

4. The refrigerator of claim 3, wherein the contact lever includes: a second lever member spaced apart from the first lever member; and a second elastic member connected to the second lever member to provide elasticity.

5. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the latch unit includes a latch lever that is rotatable about a rotation axis in the front and rear direction.

6. The refrigerator of claim 5, wherein the latch unit further includes a latch housing in which the latch lever is accommodated.

7. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein the latch lever includes: a body part inserted into the inside of the latch housing; and a restraining part formed at an end portion of the body part and selectively engaged in the latch accommodation part by rotation of the body part.

8. The refrigerator of claim 7, wherein the restraining part extends from an end portion of the body part in a direction intersecting the rotation axis.

9. The refrigerator of claim 7, wherein the latch lever further includes a pressurizing part that extends from the outer peripheral surface of the body part and is pressurized by the connection unit.

10. The refrigerator of claim 9, wherein the latch lever further includes a coupling part extending from the outer peripheral surface of the body part and to which an elastic member is coupled.

11. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein the latch unit further includes a latch cover coupled to the latch housing and supporting the latch lever.

12. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein the latch housing includes a first through-hole through which a portion of the latch lever passes.

13. The refrigerator of claim 12, wherein the latch cover includes a second through-hole through which the remaining portion of the latch lever passes.

14. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein the latch housing includes a seating protrusion on which the latch lever is seated.

15. The refrigerator of claim 10, wherein the latch housing includes a through-hole through which the latch lever passes, and wherein the through-hole includes a first through-hole through which the body part passes.

16. The refrigerator of claim 15, wherein the through-hole further includes a second through-hole through which the pressurizing part passes.

17. The refrigerator of claim 16, wherein the through-hole further includes a third through-hole through which the coupling part passes.

18. The refrigerator of claim 7, wherein the latch lever further includes a protrusion part protruding from an end portion of the body part and inserted into the inside of the latch housing.

19. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet forming a first storage section; an inner door opening and closing the first storage section and forming a second storage section; an outer door opening and closing the second storage section; a latch accommodation part provided in the inner door; and a locking device provided in the outer door and selectively engaged and restrained in the latch accommodation part, wherein the locking device includes: a manipulation unit provided in the outer door and disposed by a user's manipulation; a connection unit connected to the manipulation unit; and a latch unit selectively contacting and rotating with the connection unit and selectively coupling with the inside of the latch accommodation part, wherein the latch unit includes: a latch lever rotatable about a rotational axis in the front and rear direction; and a latch housing housing the latch lever, wherein the latch lever includes: a body part inserted into the inside of the latch housing; an extension part extending from the body part and protruding outward from the latch housing; and a restraining part formed at an end portion of the extension part and selectively engaged and restrained in the latch accommodation part by rotation of the body part.

20. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet forming a first storage section; an inner door opening and closing the first storage section and forming a second storage section; an outer door opening and closing the second storage section; a latch accommodation part provided in the inner door; and a locking device provided in the outer door and selectively engaged and restrained in the latch accommodation part, wherein the locking device includes: a manipulation unit provided in the outer door and displaceable by a user's manipulation; a connection unit connected to the manipulation unit; and a latch unit selectively contacting and rotating with the connection unit and selectively engaging the inside of the latch accommodation part, wherein the latch unit includes: a latch lever rotatable about a rotational axis in the front and rear direction; and a latch housing in which the latch lever is accommodated, wherein the latch lever includes: a body part inserted into the inside of the latch housing; a restraining part formed at an end portion of body part and selectively engaged and restrained in the latch accommodation part by the rotation of the body part; and a pressurizing part extending from the outer peripheral surface of the body part and pressurized by the connection unit, and wherein the latch housing includes a through-hole through which the body part and the pressurizing part pass.

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