refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator of the present embodiment comprises: a cabinet provided with a storage chamber; a first door opening / closing the storage chamber; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door, and a door opening device for automatically opening the second door, wherein the door opening device comprises a first magnet unit provided in the first door and a second magnet unit provided in the second door, and the second door is automatically opened due to the interaction between the first magnet unit and the second magnet unit.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator.[Background Art]

[0002] In general, a refrigerator may include a cabinet having storage space and a door for opening and closing the storage space.

[0003] The storage space is surrounded by an insulating wall so that an inside of the storage space is maintained at a lower temperature than an outside temperature. Depending on the temperature range of the storage space, the storage space may be classified as a refrigerating chamber or a freezing chamber. To place an object in or take it out of the storage space, the user opens the door.

[0004] Typically, the door is provided to be rotatable on the cabinet, and a gasket is provided between the door and the cabinet. Accordingly, when the door is closed, the gasket seals tightly between the door and the cabinet, preventing cold air from leaking from the storage space. As the sealing strength of the gasket increases, the effect of preventing cold air from leaking increases.

[0005] To increase the sealing force of the gasket, the gasket may be formed of a rubber magnet, and a magnet may be provided within the gasket. However, when the sealing force of the gasket is increased, a large force is required to open the door.

[0006] Therefore, recently, refrigerators with an automatic door opening function have been provided.

[0007] A refrigerator is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0119027, a prior art document.

[0008] The refrigerator of the prior art document includes a cabinet having at least one storage space inside, a door arranged on one side of the cabinet to open and close the storage space, and a door opening device that moves the door so that the storage space is opened by the driving force of a motor.

[0009] Specifically, the door may include an inner door that is in contact with the front of the cabinet, and an outer door that is arranged on a front of the inner door.

[0010] The door opening device is provided in the cabinet and opens the inner door by pushing the inner door.

[0011] However, in the case of the prior art document, when the inner door is opened, the outer door is opened together with the inner door, so there is a disadvantage in that the outer door cannot be opened automatically.

[0012] In addition, in the case of the prior art document, since the cabinet is equipped with a door opening device, if the outer door is to be opened using the door opening device, there is a disadvantage in that the length of the door opening device increases and the structure becomes complicated in order to push the outer door without interfering with the inner door.[Disclosure][Technical Problem]

[0013] One embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of automatically opening a second door located outside a door including a first door and a second door.

[0014] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator including a structure capable of automatically opening a second door located outside a door including a first door and a second door, while allowing manual opening of the second door.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the first door and the second door are maintained in a coupled state when the first door is opened.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the second door can be automatically closed at an angle equal to or less than a reference angle after the second door is opened.[Technical Solution]

[0017] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet forming a storage space. The refrigerator may further include a first door that opens and closes the storage space. The refrigerator may further include a second door rotatable with respect to the first door.

[0018] The refrigerator may further include a door opening device to automatically open the second door.

[0019] The door opening device may include a first magnetic unit provided at the first door and a second magnetic unit provided at the second door. The second door may be automatically opened by interaction between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit.

[0020] The refrigerator may further include a locking device that allows the first door and the second door to be in a locked state or an unlocked state when the second door is closed.

[0021] When the door opening device operates, the door opening device can open the second door after moving the locking device to an unlocked position.

[0022] In a non-operational state of the door opening device, the locking device can be manually moved to the unlocked position by the user's operation.

[0023] The second magnetic unit may be movably provided at the second door. The first magnetic unit may be fixed in position at the first door.

[0024] Alternatively, the first magnetic unit may be movably provided at the first door. The second magnetic unit may be fixed in position at the second door.

[0025] The door opening device may include a driver and a moving member that receives power from the driver.

[0026] In the process of opening the second door, the second magnetic unit may be moved together with the moving member or moved by receiving the moving force of the moving member.

[0027] The first magnetic unit may include a first magnet having a first pole and a second magnet having a second pole opposite to the first pole.

[0028] The second magnetic unit may include a third magnet having the first pole. In order to open the second door, the third magnet may move in a direction closer to the first magnet.

[0029] When the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet may be arranged in a Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door. The first magnet and the third magnet may be arranged in the Y-axis direction.

[0030] To open the second door, the third magnet may be moved in an X-axis direction so that the first magnet and the third magnet overlap in the Y-axis direction.

[0031] When the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet may be arranged in the Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door. The first magnet and the third magnet may be arranged to have a height difference in a Z-axis direction crossing the Y-axis. To open the second door, the third magnet may move in the Z-axis direction so that a height difference between the third magnet and the first magnet is reduced.

[0032] When the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet may be arranged in the Y-axis direction, which is the arrangement direction of the first door and the second door, and the first magnet and the third magnet may be arranged to overlap in the Y-axis direction. To open the second door, the third magnet may move in the Y-axis direction to get closer to the first magnet.

[0033] In the process of opening the second door, the moving member may move from a first position to a second position, and the second magnetic unit may move from an initial position to an end position. After an opening of the second door is completed, if the second door is rotated by an angle equal to or less than a reference angle, the second magnetic unit may move from the end position to the initial position by repulsive force of the third magnet and the first magnet.

[0034] The first magnetic unit may include a first magnet and a second magnet arranged in an X-axis direction crossing a Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door, when the second door is closed. The second magnetic unit may include a third magnet and a fourth magnet arranged in the X-axis direction. When the second door is closed, the third magnet may be positioned closer to the first magnet than the fourth magnet. To open the second door, the third magnet may be moved to a position in which the third magnet overlaps the second magnet in the Y-axis direction.

[0035] Each of the first magnet and the third magnet includes a N-pole and a S-pole, and when the second door is closed, the N-pole of the first magnet may be positioned adjacent to the S-pole of the third magnet, or the S-pole of the first magnet may be positioned adjacent to the N-pole of the third magnet.

[0036] After an opening of the second door is completed, the second magnetic unit may be moved from the end position to the initial position by the moving member during a process of the moving member moving from the second position to the first position.

[0037] The second magnetic unit is fixed in position at the second door, and when the second door is closed, the second magnetic unit may be arranged to overlap the first magnetic unit in the Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door.

[0038] The second door may include a shielding portion that shields at least a portion of magnetic force between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit.

[0039] The door opening device may include a driver and a moving member that receives power from the driver. During an opening process of the second door, the shielding portion may be moved by receiving a moving power of the moving member.

[0040] The door opening device may further include a driver for moving the shielding portion.

[0041] One of the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit may be an electromagnet and the other of the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit may be a permanent magnet. Alternatively, each of the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit may be an electromagnet. In this case, when current is applied to each magnetic unit, the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit may be magnetized so that their facing portions have the same pole.

[0042] According to another aspect, a refrigerator includes a cabinet having a storage space; a first door that opens and closes the storage space; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; a first magnetic unit provided at the first door; a second magnetic unit provided at the second door; a moving member for moving the first magnetic unit or the second magnetic unit; and a driver for driving the moving member. In a process of opening the second door, when the driver operates to move the first magnetic unit or the second magnetic unit so that a magnitude of repulsive force of the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit is greater than a reference value, the second door may be automatically opened.

[0043] According to another aspect, a refrigerator comprises: a cabinet having a storage space; a first door that opens and closes the storage space; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; a first magnetic unit provided at the first door; a second magnetic unit provided at the second door and positioned to face the first magnetic unit when the second door is closed; a shielding portion to shield at least a portion of magnetic force between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit; and a driver for moving the shielding portion. In a process of opening the second door, when the driver operates and the shielding portion moves so that a magnitude of repulsive force of the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit becomes greater than a reference value, the second door may be automatically opened.

[0044] According to another aspect, a refrigerator comprises: a cabinet having a storage space; a first door that opens and closes the storage space; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; a first magnetic unit provided at the first door; a second magnetic unit provided at the second door; a locking device for allowing the first door and the second door to be in a locked state or an unlocked state; a moving member for moving the locking device; and a driver for driving the moving member. When a door opening command is input, the moving member moves the locking device to an unlocked position, and then the second door may be automatically opened by interaction between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit.

[0045] According to another aspect, a refrigerator includes a cabinet having a storage space; a first door that opens and closes the storage space; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; a first magnetic unit provided at the first door; and a second magnetic unit provided at the second door. At least one of the first magnetic unit or the second magnetic unit is an electromagnet, and when current is applied, the second door may be automatically opened by a repulsive force between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit.[Advantageous Effects]

[0046] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that a second door, which is located at an outside of the door including the first door and the second door, can be automatically opened.

[0047] According to one embodiment, a second door located outside the door including the first door and the second door may be opened manually, depending on the user's needs.

[0048] According to one embodiment, when the first door is opened, a coupled state of the first door and the second door is maintained, so that a phenomenon of the second door being opened unintentionally can be prevented.

[0049] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that the second door can be automatically closed by magnetic force when the second door is opened and then rotated at an angel equal to or less than a reference angle.

[0050] According to one embodiment, a surface of the first door or the second door can be prevented from being damaged during an opening process of the second door.[Description of Drawings]

[0051] FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a second door of a refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment open. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a refrigerating chamber door and a freezing chamber door in an open state according to a first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a first door and a second door in a state where a locking device is positioned in a locked position according to a first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a lower portion of a first door according to a first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a door opening device installed at a second door according to a first embodiment. FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a door opening device from one side, and FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a door opening device from another side. FIG. 8A is a front view of a door opening device according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a rear view of a door opening device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a first moving member as viewed from one side according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a first moving member as viewed from another side according to a first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a housing of a second magnetic unit according to a first embodiment. FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 7, and FIG. 11 Bis a drawing showing a first moving member in FIG. 11A moving in a first direction. FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a second moving member according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a locking device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation of a door opening device and a locking device in stages according to a movement distance of a first moving member. FIG. 15A is a perspective view showing a door opening device and a locking device in a first position of a first moving member, and FIG. 15B is a perspective view showing a door opening device and a locking device in a state where a first moving member is moved to a second position. FIG. 16A is a front view showing a door opening device and a locking device in a state where a first moving member is moved to a second position, and FIG. 16 Bis a rear view showing a door opening device and a locking device in a state where a first moving member is moved to a second position. FIG. 17A is a drawing showing positions of a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 17B is a drawing showing positions of a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a drawing showing changes in magnetic lines of force of a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit according to changes in a moving position of the first moving member. FIG. 19A is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a first position of a first moving member according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 19B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit of a first moving member according to a second embodiment. FIG. 20A is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a second position of a first moving member according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 20B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit of a first moving member according to a second embodiment. FIG. 21A is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a first position of a first moving member according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 21B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a third embodiment. FIG. 22A is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a second position of a first moving member according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 22B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a third embodiment. FIG. 23A is a drawing showing a door opening device at a first position of a first moving member according to a fourth embodiment, and FIG. 23B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a moving member, a first magnetic unit, and a second magnetic unit according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 25A is a drawing showing a door opening device at a second position of a first moving member according to a fourth embodiment, and FIG. 25B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 26A is a drawing showing a door opening device at a first position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment, and FIG. 26B is a drawing showing a portion of a door opening device at a first position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 27 is a drawing showing a connection structure of a first moving member and a housing. FIG. 28A is a perspective view showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment, and FIG. 28B is a front view showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 29A is a perspective view showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment, and FIG. 29B is a front view showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 30 is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 31 is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit according to a seventh embodiment. [Mode for Invention]

[0052] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that when components in the drawings are designated by reference numerals, the same components have the same reference numerals as far as possible even though the components are illustrated in different drawings. Further, in description of embodiments of the present disclosure, when it is determined that detailed descriptions of well-known configurations or functions disturb understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0053] Also, in the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the terms such as first, second, A, B, (a) and (b) may be used. Each of the terms is merely used to distinguish the corresponding component from other components, and does not delimit an essence, an order or a sequence of the corresponding component. It should be understood that when one component is "connected", "coupled", "joined" to another component, the former may be directly connected, coupled, or joined to the latter or may be "connected", coupled", or "joined" to the latter with a third component interposed therebetween.

[0054] In this specification, a front surface of the second door is a surface forming a front exterior of a refrigerator door, and a rear surface is a surface facing a first door.

[0055] A front surface of a first door is a surface forming a front exterior of the first door and faces a rear surface of the second door. A rear surface of the first door is a surface facing a cabinet or a storage space.

[0056] FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a second door of a refrigerating chamber door according to a first embodiment open. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a refrigerating chamber door and a freezing chamber door in an open state according to a first embodiment.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator 1 according to the present embodiment may include a cabinet 10 forming a storage space and a refrigerator door that opens and closes the storage space.

[0058] The storage space may include, for example, a refrigerating chamber 11 and a freezing chamber 15. Although not limited, the refrigerating chamber 11 may be located at an upper side of the freezing chamber 15. Depending on a shape of the refrigerator, the freezing chamber 15 and the refrigerating chamber 11 may be arranged left and right, or the freezing chamber 15 may be positioned at an upper side of the refrigerating chamber 11.

[0059] The refrigerator door may include a refrigerating chamber door 20 that opens and closes the refrigerating chamber 11 and a freezing chamber door 25 that opens and closes the freezing chamber 15.

[0060] The refrigerating chamber door 20 may include, for example, a pair of doors 21 and 22 arranged left and right. That is, the refrigerating chamber door 20 may include a first refrigerating chamber door 21 and a second refrigerating chamber door 22 arranged left and right. The first refrigerating chamber door 21 may open and close a portion of the refrigerating chamber 11, and the second refrigerating chamber door 22 may open and close another portion of the refrigerating chamber 11.

[0061] The freezing chamber door 25 may include, for example, a pair of doors 26 and 27 arranged left and right. That is, the freezing chamber door 25 may include a first freezing chamber door 26 and a second freezing chamber door 27 arranged left and right. The first freezing chamber door 26 may open and close a portion of the freezing chamber 15, and the second freezing chamber door 27 may open and close another portion of the freezing chamber 15. Alternatively, the freezing chamber 15 may be partitioned left and right or up and down, and the first freezing chamber door 26 may open and close one partitioned space, and the second freezing chamber door 27 may open and close another partitioned space.

[0062] It is to be noted that there is no limitation on a number or an arrangement of the refrigerating chamber door 20 and the freezing chamber door 25 in this specification. For example, it is also possible for the storage space to include only the refrigerating chamber.

[0063] At least one of the first refrigerating chamber door 21 or the second refrigerating chamber door 22 may include a first door 30 that opens and closes at least a portion of the refrigerating chamber 11, and a second door 40 rotatable relative to the first door 30.

[0064] In FIG. 2, as an example, it is shown that the first and second refrigerating chamber doors 21 and 22 each include the first door 30 and the second door 40.

[0065] The first door 30 may be rotatably connected to the cabinet 10 by a first hinge 51. The second door 40 may be rotated with respect to the first door 30 by a second hinge 53. The second hinge 53 may connect the first door 30 and the second door 40, for example.

[0066] The first door 30 may include an opening 32. The second door 40 may open and close the opening 32.

[0067] The second door 40 may cover the opening 32 at a front surface of the first door 30. Alternatively, it is also possible for at least a portion of the second door 40 to be received in the opening 32 and cover the opening 32.

[0068] The first door 30 may be referred to as an inner door or a main door, and the second door 40 may be referred to as an outer door or a sub door.

[0069] The first door 30 may include one or more baskets 33 and 34. The baskets 33 and 34 may be mounted on a rear surface of the first door 30 or on a surface forming the opening 32.

[0070] At least one of the first freezing chamber door 26 or the second freezing chamber door 27 may include a basket 28. As an example, FIG. 3 illustrates that each of the first and second freezing chamber doors 26, 27 is provided with a basket 28.

[0071] The second door 40 may include a panel assembly 410. The panel assembly 410 may include one or more panels formed of a glass material or a material that is capable of transmitting light.

[0072] When a lighting unit provided in the refrigerator is turned on, the storage space or an inside of the first door 30 can be viewed by the panel assembly 410 while the second door 40 is closed.

[0073] Meanwhile, the refrigerating chamber 11 may be provided with one or more shelves 12. The refrigerating chamber 11 may be provided with one or more sliding drawers 13. The freezing chamber 15 may be provided with one or more sliding drawers 16. Of course, the shelf 12 or the drawers 13 and 16 are optional and may be omitted.

[0074] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a first door and a second door in a state where a locking device is positioned in a locked position according to a first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a lower portion of a first door according to a first embodiment.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the first door 30 may be opened manually. The first door 30 may be opened automatically.

[0076] In the case of automatically opening the first door 30, although not shown, a main opening device for opening the first door 30 may be provided at the first door 30 or the cabinet 10. It is to be noted that a location or structure of the main opening device for opening the first door 30 can be applied to various technologies previously disclosed by the applicant of the present application. That is, as the first door 30 is opened by the main opening device, the first door 30 and the second door 40 may rotate together. Of course, the main opening device can also be omitted.

[0077] The second door 40 may be opened in a state in which the first door 30 is closed. The first door 30 may be opened in a state in which the second door 40 is closed. At this time, when the first door 30 is opened, it is necessary to prevent the second door 40 from rotating with respect to the first door 30.

[0078] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the refrigerating chamber door 20 may further include a locking device 70 that allows the first door 30 and the second door 40 to be remained in a locked state or to be in an unlocked state.

[0079] The locking device 70 may move from a locked position to an unlocked position. The locking device 70 may return from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0080] The locking device 70 may be moved by manual operation by a user. In addition, the locking device 70 may be automatically moved by a door opening device to be described later.

[0081] For example, when a manual opening of the second door 40 is required, the user can operate the locking device 70 to move the locking device 70 from the locked position to the unlocked position. When the locking device 70 moves to the unlocked position, the second door 40 and the first door 30 may be in an unlocked state.

[0082] The locking device 70 may be movably provided at the second door 40. The second door 40 may be provided with a handle 45. The handle 45 may be provided in a recessed form at one side of the second door 40. For example, the handle 45 may be provided at a lower side of the second door 40.

[0083] The locking device 70 may be provided at a lower side of the second door 40. The locking device 70 may be located at an outside of the handle 45. Alternatively, the locking device 70 may be located within a recessed space formed by the handle 45.

[0084] In a locked position of the locking device 70, the first door 30 and the second door 40 may be in a locked state. In this state, when the user pulls the handle 45, the first door 30 and the second door 40 may be rotated together.

[0085] When the user pulls the handle 45 in an unlocked state of the second door 40 and the first door 30, the second door 40 may be rotated in a state in which the first door 30 is closed.

[0086] The first door 30 may be provided with a catch portion 310 for catching the locking device 70. The catch portion 310 may be formed integrally with a member forming an exterior of the first door 30 or may be coupled to the member. The catch portion 310 may be located, for example, at a lower side of the first door 30.

[0087] The catch portion 310 may form a space 312 for receiving a portion of the locking device 70. The catch portion 310 may include a catch wall 314 for catching a portion of the locking device 70 positioned in the space 312. A front surface of the catch wall 314 may include an inclined surface. When the second door 40 is opened and then closed, the locking device 70 can easily move along the inclined surface and into the space 312.

[0088] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a door opening device installed at a second door according to a first embodiment. FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a door opening device from one side, and FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a door opening device from another side. FIG. 8A is a front view of a door opening device according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a rear view of a door opening device according to a first embodiment.

[0089] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate, for example, a state in which a case of a door opening device has been removed.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, a door opening device 60 of the present embodiment may be installed at the second door 40. The door opening device 60 may operate to automatically open the second door 40. While the door opening device 60 is operating, the locking device 70 may be moved to an unlocked position by the door opening device 60.

[0091] In order for the door opening device 60 to operate the locking device 70, the door opening device 60 may be positioned adjacent to the locking device 70. For example, the door opening device 60 may be installed at a lower side of the second door 40.

[0092] In the present embodiment, the locking device 70 may be a separate component from the door opening device 60 or may be a component constituting the door opening device 60.

[0093] The second door 40 may further include a sensor 102. The sensor 102 may detect an input of a door opening command for opening the second door 40. The sensor 102 may be a touch sensor that detects a user's touch on a front surface of the second door 40, or a knock sensor that detects multiple knocks applied to the front surface of the second door 40. The sensor 102 may be a capacitive sensor, a sensor that detects vibration, or a sensor that detects sound waves. Alternatively, the sensor 102 may include a mechanical switch or a switch that is operated by pressure.

[0094] As another example, the sensor 102 may be provided in the cabinet 10, in the first door 30, or in the freezing chamber door 25.

[0095] The door opening device 60 may include a driver 620. The driver may include a motor. The motor may be capable of rotating in both directions, for example.

[0096] The door opening device 60 may further include a case 610. The case 610 may be installed at the second door 40. The case 610 may support components constituting the door opening device 60, fix positions of the components, or guide a movement of the components.

[0097] The driver 620 may be installed at the case 610. Of course, it is also possible that a portion of the case 610 is omitted and a wall of the second door 40 serves as the case.

[0098] The door opening device 60 may further include a transmission unit 630 that transmits a power of the driver 620. The transmission unit 630 may include, for example, a plurality of gears. Each of the plurality of gears may be rotatably supported by the case 610.

[0099] For example, the plurality of gears may include a driving gear 631 connected to the driver 620. The plurality of gears may further include a driven gear 634.

[0100] The driven gear 634 may be directly connected to the driving gear 631 or may be connected to the driving gear 631 by one or more intermediate gears 632, 633. It should be noted that there is no limitation on a number of gears in this embodiment.

[0101] The door opening device 60 may further include a first moving member 640 that receives power from the driver 620.

[0102] The first moving member 640 may be connected to the transmission unit 630. The first moving member 640 may be, for example, a rack that moves linearly. The first moving member 640 may be engaged with, for example, the driven gear 634.

[0103] In an auto opening process of the second door 40, the first moving member 640 may move in a first direction from a first position, which is an initial position, to a second position, which is an end position. After an automatic opening of the second door 40 is completed, the first moving member 640 may return from the second position to the first position.

[0104] The first moving member 640 may transmit the power of the driver 620 to the locking device 70.

[0105] The door opening device 60 may further include a second moving member 690 that interacts with the first moving member 640. The second moving member 690 may transmit the power of the driver 620 to the locking device 70 while moving relative to the first moving member 640. The second moving member 690 may be connected to the locking device 70.

[0106] In the present embodiment, the second moving member 690 may move in a direction crossing the first direction while the first moving member 640 moves in the first direction. For example, the second moving member 690 may move in a curved or rotational motion, and accordingly, the locking device 70 may be rotated.

[0107] The second door 40 may be provided with a supporter 750 that rotatably supports the locking device 70. The supporter 750 may be a separate component from the case 610 or may be formed integrally with the case 610.

[0108] In this embodiment, the second moving member 690 may be formed integrally with the locking device 70 or may be coupled as a separate component. When the second moving member 690 is integrally formed with the locking device 70, the door opening device 60 may be understood to include a single moving member (only the first moving member 640).

[0109] The door opening device 60 may further include a door opening portion that operates to automatically open the second door 40.

[0110] The door opening portion may include a first magnetic unit 330 provided at the first door 30 and a second magnetic unit 650 provided at the second door 40.

[0111] The second door 40 may be automatically opened by interaction between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650.

[0112] The first magnetic unit 330 is provided at the first door 30 and may be in non-contact with the second door 40. The second magnetic unit 650 is provided at the second door 40 and may be in non-contact with the first door 30.

[0113] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the door opening portion may be a non-contact type of door opening portion. Since components constituting the door opening portion do not contact surfaces of the first door 30 and the second door 40, a phenomenon of the surfaces of the first door 30 or the second door 40 being damaged during the door opening process can be prevented.

[0114] In addition, since components constituting the door opening portion are prevented from being exposed to an outside of the door, there is an advantage in that an exterior of the door becomes neat.

[0115] The first moving member 640 may transmit the power of the driver 620 to the second magnetic unit 650.

[0116] In the present embodiment, the timing at which the driving force is transmitted to the locking device 70 and the timing at which the second door 40 is opened may be set to be different from each other, such that the second door 40 is opened by interaction between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650 after the locking device 70 is moved to an unlocked position.

[0117] That is, in the case of the present embodiment, by an operation of the driver 620, the driving force is first transmitted to the locking device 70 while the first moving member 640 is moving, and subsequently, by a further movement of the first moving member 640, a repulsive force between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650 becomes equal to or greater than a reference value, so that the second door 40 can be automatically opened.

[0118] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a first moving member as viewed from one side according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a first moving member as viewed from another side according to a first embodiment.

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9, a first moving member 640 according to the present embodiment may include a body 641. The body 641 may be formed in the form of a thin plate, for example, but is not limited thereto.

[0120] The first moving member 640 may further include a first extension 642 extending from the body 641. The first extension 642 may be in contact with the second moving member 690.

[0121] The first extension 642 may, for example, protrude from an upper surface or a lower surface of the body 641. The first extension 642 may include the first contact surface 642a. The first contact surface 642a may include an inclined surface.

[0122] The first moving member 640 may move in an X-axis direction, for example.

[0123] The X-axis direction may be, for example, a left-right direction of the second door 40. In this specification, a Y-axis direction may be an arrangement direction of the first door 30 and the second door 40 or a front-back direction of the second door 40.

[0124] The inclined surface may be inclined with respect to the X-axis and the Y-axis. For example, the inclined surface may be inclined in a direction away from the second moving member 690 as it approaches the first door 30. When the first moving member 640 moves along the inclined surface, the second moving member 690 moves along the inclined surface, so that the locking device 70 can be rotated.

[0125] The first extension 642 may further include the second contact surface 642b. The second contact surface 642b may extend from an end of the first contact surface 624a. The second contact surface 642b may be formed in a curved shape. The second contact surface 642b may form a space for receiving the second moving member 690. After the locking device 70 is moved to the unlocked position, the first moving member 640 may be further moved in the first direction while the second moving member 690 is received in the space.

[0126] The first moving member 640 may further include a rack gear 644 provided on the body 641. The rack gear 644 may be provided on an upper surface or a lower surface of the body 641, for example. The rack gear 644 may be spaced apart from the first extension 642 in the X-axis direction. The rack gear 644 may be engaged with the driven gear 634.

[0127] The first moving member 640 may further include a second extension 646. The second extension 646 may be in contact with the second magnetic unit 650 during a movement of the first moving member 640.

[0128] The second extension 646 may, for example, protrude from an upper surface or a lower surface of the body 641. The rack gear 644 may be positioned between the first extension 642 and the second extension 646.

[0129] The second extension 646 may include a first portion 646a. The first portion 646a may extend, for example, in the Y-axis direction.

[0130] The second extension 646 may further include a second portion 646b spaced apart from the first portion 646a. The second portion 646c may extend in the Y-axis direction.

[0131] The second extension 646 may further include a third portion 646c connecting the first portion 646a and the second portion 646b. The third portion 646c may extend in a direction crossing the first portion 646a or the second portion 646b. The third portion 646c may extend in the X-axis direction.

[0132] The first portion 646a may be positioned closer to the rack gear 644 than the second portion 646b.

[0133] The first portion 646a, the second portion 646b and the third portion 646c may form a space 647. A portion of the second magnetic unit 650 may be positioned in the space 647.

[0134] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a housing of a second magnetic unit according to a first embodiment. FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 7, and FIG. 11 Bis a drawing showing a first moving member in FIG. 11A moving in a first direction.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11, a position of the first magnetic unit 330 may be fixed in the first door 30.

[0136] The first magnetic unit 330 may include a first magnet 334 having a first pole and a second magnet 335 having a second pole opposite to the first pole. The first pole may be a N-pole and the second pole may be a S-pole, or vice versa. The first magnet 334 and the second magnet 336 may be formed integrally or separately.

[0137] The first magnetic unit 330 may further include a housing 332 that receives the first magnet 334 and the second magnet 336.

[0138] The second magnetic unit 650 may be movably arranged at the second door 40. For example, the second magnetic unit 650 may be movable together with the first moving member 640.

[0139] The second magnetic unit 650 may include a third magnet 661 having the first pole and a fourth magnet 662 having the second pole. The third magnet 661 and the fourth magnet 662 may be formed integrally or separately.

[0140] The third magnet 661 may have the same polarity as the first magnet 334. The fourth magnet 662 may have the same polarity as the second magnet 336.

[0141] The first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650 may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction. The third magnet 661 may be positioned closer to the first magnet 334 than the fourth magnet 662.

[0142] In the first door 30, the first magnet 334 and the second magnet 336 may be arranged in the Y-axis direction. In the second door 40, the third magnet 661 and the fourth magnet 611 may be arranged in the Y-axis direction.

[0143] The third magnet 661 and the fourth magnet 662 may be directly installed at the first moving member 640. Alternatively, the second magnetic unit 650 may include a housing 651 that receives the third magnet 661 and the fourth magnet 662.

[0144] The housing 651 may include a space 652 in which the third magnet 661 and the fourth magnet 662 are received.

[0145] The housing 651 may further include a contact portion 654. The contact portion 654 may protrude from one surface of the housing 651.

[0146] The contact portion 654 may be in contact with the second extension 646. The contact portion 654 may include a contact protrusion 655 (or a first part). The contact protrusion 655 may be positioned in a space 647 formed by the second extension 646.

[0147] The contact protrusion 655 may extend, for example, in the Y-axis direction. The contact portion 654 may further include a reinforcing portion 656 (or a second part) extending in a direction crossing the contact protrusion 655.

[0148] The contact protrusion 655 may substantially contact the second extension 646. The reinforcing portion 656 may be connected to the contact protrusion 655 in terms of reinforcing a strength of the contact protrusion 655. The reinforcing portion 656 may be in contact with or spaced apart from the second extension 646. Accordingly, a position of the reinforcing portion 656 may be changed or the reinforcing portion 656 may be omitted.

[0149] A distance between the first portion 646a and the second portion 646b of the first moving member 640 or a length in the X-axis direction of the space 647 may be greater than a width or a length in the X-axis direction of the contact protrusion 655.

[0150] In a first position of the first moving member 640, the second portion 646b may be spaced apart from the contact protrusion 655. The first portion 464a may be in contact with the contact protrusion 655.

[0151] In the process of moving the first moving member 640 for automatic opening of the second door 40, the second portion 646b may come close to the contact protrusion 655.

[0152] Before the second portion 646b is in contact with the contact projection 655, a moving force of the first moving member 640 is not transmitted to the contact projection 655. When the second portion 646b is in contact with the contact protrusion 655, the moving force of the first moving member 640 is transmitted to the contact protrusion 655, so that the second magnetic unit 650 may be moved.

[0153] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a second moving member according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a locking device according to a first embodiment.

[0154] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 12, the second moving member 690 may include a moving bar 691. The moving bar 691 may be in contact with the first moving member 640. The moving bar 691 may include a contact end 691a. The contact end 691a may sequentially contact the first contact surface 642a and the second contact surface 642b.

[0155] The second moving member 690 may further include a coupling portion 692 extending from the moving bar 691. The coupling portion 692 may, for example, extend downward from the moving bar 691. The coupling portion 692 may be coupled to the locking device 70.

[0156] The coupling portion 692 may include a coupling hole 693 to which a coupling member is coupled.

[0157] The locking device 70 may include a first body 710. The first body 710 may be coupled to the coupling portion 692. The first body 710 may extend in an up-down direction, for example.

[0158] The locking device 70 may further include a second body 720 extending from the first body 710 in a direction crossing the first body 710.

[0159] The first body 710 may be provided with a hole 714 to which a shaft 730 to provide a rotation center is coupled. The shaft 730 may pass through the supporter 750 and be coupled to the hole 714. Alternatively, the shaft 730 may be formed integrally with the first body 710. In either case, the locking device 70 may be rotated with respect to a rotation center extending in a horizontal direction.

[0160] The second body 720 is positioned at a lower side of the first body 710 and may include a hook 722 for catching the catch portion 310.

[0161] A portion of the lower surface of the second body 720 may be an operating surface 724 for a user to operate. The operating surface 724 may be positioned opposite the hook 722 with respect to the first body 710. For example, when the operating surface 724 is pressed upward, the locking device 70 may be rotated in an unlocking direction.

[0162] Hereinafter, an operation of the locking device 70 and door opening device 60 will be described in detail.

[0163] FIG. 13 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation of a door opening device and a locking device in stages according to a movement distance of a first moving member.

[0164] FIG. 15A is a perspective view showing a door opening device and a locking device in a first position of a first moving member, and FIG. 15B is a perspective view showing a door opening device and a locking device in a state where a first moving member is moved to a second position.

[0165] FIG. 16A is a front view showing a door opening device and a locking device in a state where a first moving member is moved to a second position, and FIG. 16 Bis a rear view showing a door opening device and a locking device in a state where a first moving member is moved to a second position.

[0166] FIG. 17A is a drawing showing positions of a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 17B is a drawing showing positions of a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a first embodiment.

[0167] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing changes in magnetic lines of force of a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit according to changes in a moving position of the first moving member.

[0168] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 18, a refrigerator of the present embodiment may further include a controller 100. The controller 100 may be installed on or separated from the object to be controlled. The controller 100 may be located inside or outside the object to be controlled.

[0169] For example, the controller 100 may be provided in the cabinet 10 or in the refrigerating chamber door 20.

[0170] The controller 100 may control the driver 620. The controller 100 may be located outside the driver 620. The controller 100 may control the driver 620 alone, or may control other components in the refrigerator other than the driver 620.[Manual opening of a second door]

[0171] As described above, even if a door opening command is not detected by sensor 102, the user can operate the locking device 70 to manually open the second door 40.

[0172] When the first moving member 640 is positioned at a first position, the locking device 70 may operate independently. Accordingly, when a user presses the operating surface 724 of the locking device 70 in one direction (for example, upward), the locking device 70 rotates in the unlocking direction, so that the locking device 70 may move from a locked position to an unlocked position. Then, a catch between the hook 722 of the locking device 70 and the catch wall 314 of the first door 30 can be released. In this state, the user can open the second door 40 by rotating the second door 40.

[0173] During a manual movement process of the locking device 70, the first moving member 640 and the second magnetic unit 650 maintain a stationary state.[Automatic opening of a second door]

[0174] Meanwhile, when the first door 30 and the second door 40 are closed and the first door 30 and the second door 40 are locked, and a door opening command is detected by the sensor 102 (S1), the controller 100 may control the driver 620 to automatically open the second door 40.

[0175] In the present embodiment, an operation of the driver 620 for opening the second door 40 may be performed in a state in which the first door 30 is closed. An opening and closing of the first door 30 may be detected by the first door switch 103. The first door switch 103 may be provided at the cabinet 10 or the first door 30.

[0176] The operation of the driver 620 for opening the second door 40 may be performed in a state in which the second door 40 is closed. The opening and closing of the second door 40 may be detected by the second door switch 104. The second door switch 104 may be provided at the first door 30 or the second door 40.

[0177] The controller 100 may rotate the motor in one direction. When the motor rotates in one direction, a power of the driver 620 may be transmitted to the first moving member 640 through the transmission unit 630.

[0178] In the first position of the first moving member 640, the second portion 646b of the first moving member 640 may be spaced apart from the contact protrusion 655. In the process of the first moving member 640 moving in the first direction to open the second door 40, the second portion 646b can come close to the contact protrusion 655.

[0179] Before the second portion 646b is in contact with the contact protrusion 655, a moving force of the first moving member 640 is not transmitted to the contact protrusion 655. Therefore, the second magnetic unit 650 remains stationary.

[0180] In the process of the first moving member 640 moving from the first position to the first direction by the first distance, the first door 30 and second door 40 can be unlocked (S2).

[0181] For example, in the process of the first moving member 640 moving from the first position by a first distance, the first contact surface 642a pushes the contact end 691a of the second moving member 690, so that the contact end 691a and the first contact surface 642a slide relative to each other.

[0182] In the process of the contact end 691a sliding with the first contact surface 642a, the second moving member 690 moves in a curved motion, and accordingly, the locking device 70 rotates, so that the first door 30 and the second door 40 can be unlocked.

[0183] In a state in which the first moving member 640 is moved a first distance from the first position, the contact end 691a may be located at a boundary between the first contact surface 642a and the second contact surface 642b or may be in contact with the second contact surface 642b.

[0184] The second portion 646b may be spaced apart from or be in contact with the contact protrusion 655 in a state in which the first moving member 640 moves a first distance from the first position.

[0185] When the first moving member 640 moves from the first position by a second distance greater than the first distance, an opening of the second door 40 starts (S3).

[0186] When the first moving member 640 moves a second distance from the first position, the second magnetic unit 650 may also move together. The second magnetic unit 650 may move in the X-axis direction.

[0187] Referring to FIG. 17 and FIG. 18A, when the first moving member 640 is positioned at the first position, the third magnet 661 and the first magnet 334 may be positioned so as not to overlap in the Y-axis direction.

[0188] In this state, an attractive force may be applied between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650 to maintain the second door 40 in a closed state. For example, an attractive force may be generated by connecting a magnetic line of force between the first magnet 334 and the third magnet 661, and connecting a magnetic line of force between the second magnet 336 and the fourth magnet 662.

[0189] A separation distance between a Y-axis direction extension line passing through a center of the first magnet 334 (or second magnet) 336 and a Y-axis direction extension line passing through a center of the third magnet 661 (or fourth magnet) 662 may be referred to as D.

[0190] The separation distance may be maximum when the first moving member 640 is positioned at the first position.

[0191] The separation distance may decrease as the first moving member 640 moves from the first position by a second distance. An attractive force may be generated between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650 until the separation distance reaches a first reference distance.

[0192] The first magnet 334 and the third magnet 661 may overlap in the Y-axis direction before the separation distance reaches the first reference distance. FIG. 18C shows relative positions of the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650 when the separation distance reaches the first reference distance.

[0193] When the separation distance becomes less than the first reference distance, a repulsive force occurs between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650, and an attractive force also coexists.

[0194] However, even if a repulsive force is generated, the second door 40 can be opened only when the repulsive force reaches a reference value. That is, the second door 40 can be opened only when a repulsive force sufficient to open the second door 40 is generated, taking into account a weight of the second door 40 itself and a weight of the food received in the second door 40.

[0195] Referring to FIGS. 18D and 18E, when the separation distance becomes less than the first reference distance, a number of closed curves in the magnetic force lines increases, thereby increasing the repulsive force.

[0196] For example, as in FIG. 18E, when the first moving member 640 moves by the second distance, the repulsive force becomes greater than the reference value, and automatic opening of the second door 40 may begin.

[0197] The first moving member 640 may stop after moving from the first position to the third distance during a process of opening the second door 40. That is, the first moving member 640 may stop at the second position (S4).

[0198] After the opening of the second door 40 is completed or after the first moving member 640 stops, the motor may be rotated in another direction so that the first moving member 640 can return to the first position, which is the initial position (S5).

[0199] In a state in which the first moving member 640 moves to the second position, the first portion 646a may be spaced apart from the contact protrusion 655. In a process in which the second moving member 640 moves in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the first portion 646a may be in contact with the contact protrusion 655. After the first portion 646a is in contact with the contact protrusion 655, when the first moving member 640 moves in the second direction, the second magnetic unit 650 also moves in the second direction. By the second direction movement of the second magnetic unit 650, the second magnetic unit 650 may move to the initial position.

[0200] Meanwhile, when the second door 40 is rotated at an angle equal to or less than a reference angle in a state in which the second magnetic unit 650 is reached the initial position, the second door 40 may be automatically closed by the attractive force between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650.

[0201] According to this embodiment, there is an advantage in that automatic opening of the second door located at an outside of a door including a first door and a second door is possible.

[0202] According to this embodiment, there is an advantage in that manual opening of the second door located at an outside of the door including the first door and the second door is possible according to the user's needs.

[0203] According to this embodiment, when the first door is opened, a coupled state of the first door and the second door is maintained, so that a phenomenon of the second door being opened unintentionally can be prevented.

[0204] According to this embodiment, when the second door is opened and then rotated at an angle equal to or less than a reference angle, the attractive force between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit increases, so that the second door can be automatically closed by magnetic force.

[0205] According to this embodiment, there is an advantage in that a surface of the first door or the second door can be prevented from being damaged during the process of opening the second door.

[0206] FIG. 19A is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a first position of a first moving member according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 19B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit of a first moving member according to a second embodiment. FIG. 20A is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a second position of a first moving member according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 20B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit of a first moving member according to a second embodiment.

[0207] The present embodiment is identical to the first embodiment in other respects, except that it differs an arrangement of magnets in the magnetic unit. Therefore, hereinafter, only the characteristic portions of the present embodiment will be described, and the same reference numerals will be used for the same configurations as those in the first embodiment.

[0208] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a door opening device 60A of the present embodiment may include a first magnetic unit 330A provided at the first door 30 and a second magnetic unit 650A provided at the second door 40.

[0209] A basic form and function of the first magnetic unit 330A and the second magnetic unit 650A are the same as those of the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650 of the first embodiment.

[0210] The first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650A may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0211] The first magnetic unit 330A may include a first magnet 334A and a second magnet 336A. The first magnet 334A and the second magnet 336A may be arranged in the X-axis direction.

[0212] Each of the first magnet 334A and the second magnet 336A may have a single polarity or may include a N-pole and a S-pole. In this case, the N-pole and the S-pole may be arranged in the Y-axis direction in the first magnet 334A, and the S-pole and the N-pole may be arranged in the Y-axis direction in the second magnet 336A, or vice versa.

[0213] The second magnetic unit 650A may include a third magnet 661A and a fourth magnet 662A. The third magnet 661A and the fourth magnet 662A may be arranged in the X-axis direction.

[0214] Each of the third magnet 661A and the fourth magnet 662A may have a single polarity or may include a N-pole and a S-pole. In this case, the N-pole and the S-pole may be arranged in the Y-axis direction in the third magnet 661A, and the S-pole and the N-pole may be arranged in the Y-axis direction in the fourth magnet 661A, or vice versa.

[0215] At the first position of the first moving member 640, the first magnet 334A may be positioned closer to the third magnet 661A than the second magnet 336A. At the first position of the first moving member 640, the third magnet 661A may be positioned closer to the first magnet 334A than the fourth magnet 662A.

[0216] At the first position of the first moving member 640, at least a portion of the first magnet 334A may overlap with the third magnet 661A in the Y-axis direction.

[0217] At this time, the N-pole of the first magnet 334A may be adjacent to the S-pole of the third magnet 661A, or the S-pole of the first magnet 334A may be adjacent to the N-pole of the third magnet 661A.

[0218] Therefore, at the first position of the first moving member 640, an attractive force may be generated between the first magnetic unit 330A and the second magnetic unit 650A.

[0219] In the process of the first moving member 640 moving from the first position to the second position, at least a portion of the third magnet 661A may overlap the second magnet 336A in the Y-axis direction, and at least a portion of the fourth magnet 662A may overlap the first magnet 334A in the Y-axis direction.

[0220] In the process of the first moving member 640 moving from the first position to the second position, the N-pole of the first magnet 334A may be adjacent to the N-pole of the fourth magnet 661A, and the S-pole of the second magnet 336A may be adjacent to the S-pole of the third magnet 334A. Conversely, the S-pole of the first magnet 334A may be adjacent to the S-pole of the fourth magnet 661A, and the N-pole of the second magnet 336A may be adjacent to the N-pole of the third magnet 334A.

[0221] Accordingly, in the process of the first moving member 640 moving from the first position to the second position, a repulsive force is generated between the first magnetic unit 330A and the second magnetic unit 650A, and when the repulsive force becomes greater than a reference value, automatic opening of the second door 40 may begin.

[0222] As another example, at the first position of the first moving member 640, it is also possible for the first magnet 334A and the third magnet 661A to not overlap in the Y-axis direction.

[0223] FIG. 21A is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a first position of a first moving member according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 21B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a third embodiment.

[0224] FIG. 22A is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a second position of a first moving member according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 22B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a third embodiment.

[0225] This embodiment is identical to the first embodiment in other respects, except that it differs that positions of the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit are fixed. Therefore, only the characteristic portions of this embodiment will be described below, and the same drawing reference numerals will be used for the same components as the first embodiment.

[0226] Referring to FIGS. 21 and 22, a door opening device 60B of the present embodiment may include a first magnetic unit 330 provided at the first door 30 and a second magnetic unit 650B provided at the second door 40.

[0227] The first magnetic unit 330 of the present embodiment is identical to the first magnetic unit 330 of the first embodiment. Unlike the first embodiment, the second magnetic unit 650B may be fixed in position at the second door 40.

[0228] For example, the second magnetic unit 650B may be fixed to the case 610.

[0229] The first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650B may be spaced apart from each other in the Y-axis direction.

[0230] The first magnetic unit 330 may include a first magnet 334 and a second magnet 336. The first magnet 334 and the second magnet 336 may be arranged in the Y-axis direction.

[0231] The second magnetic unit 650B may include a third magnet 661 and a fourth magnet 662.

[0232] The third magnet 661 and the fourth magnet 662 may be installed in the case 610. Alternatively, the second magnetic unit 650B may include a housing 651 in which the third magnet 661 and the fourth magnet 662 are received, and the housing 651 may be installed in the case 610.

[0233] At least a portion of the third magnet 661 may be arranged to overlap the first magnet 334 in the Y-axis direction.

[0234] The door opening device 60B of the present embodiment may further include a first moving member 640. The door opening device 60B of the present embodiment may further include a shielding portion 670.

[0235] When the second door 40 is closed, the shielding portion 670 may shield at least a portion of the magnetic force between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650B.

[0236] For example, the shielding portion 670 may be positioned between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650B. The first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650B may be positioned at a position where a repulsive force may be generated when the second door 40 is closed. The shielding portion 670 may block a generation of repulsive force between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650B.

[0237] The shielding portion 670 may be positioned between the first magnet 334 and the third magnet 661. At this time, the first magnet 334 and the third magnet 661 may be positioned at a position where the repulsive force between the first magnet 334 and the third magnet 661 is greater than a reference value when the shielding portion 670 is not present. Although not limited, the entirety of the first magnet 334 may be arranged to overlap the third magnet 661 in the Y-axis direction, or the entirety of the third magnet 661 may be arranged to overlap the first magnet 334 in the Y-axis direction.

[0238] In the auto opening process of the second door 40, the shielding portion 670 may be moved. By the movement of the shielding portion 670, a repulsive force is generated between the first magnetic unit 330 and the second magnetic unit 650B, and when the shielding portion 670 moves to a position where the repulsive force is greater than a reference value, the second door 40 may be automatically opened.

[0239] For example, the shielding portion 670 may be connected to the first moving member 640 and may move together with the first moving member 640. In this case, the shielding portion 670 may be movable in the X-axis direction, for example.

[0240] Alternatively, the shielding portion 670 may be moved by a driver that is a separate component from the driver 620. At this time, the shielding portion 670 may be moved in the X-axis direction or a Z-axis direction. The Z-axis direction may be, for example, an up-down direction.

[0241] FIG. 23A is a drawing showing a door opening device at a first position of a first moving member according to a fourth embodiment, and FIG. 23B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a fourth embodiment.

[0242] FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing a moving member, a first magnetic unit, and a second magnetic unit according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 25A is a drawing showing a door opening device at a second position of a first moving member according to a fourth embodiment, and FIG. 25B is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a fourth embodiment.

[0243] This embodiment is identical to the first embodiment in other respects, except that it differs a structure of the first moving member and the second magnetic unit. Therefore, only the characteristic portions of this embodiment will be described below, and the same drawing reference numerals will be used for the same components as the first embodiment.

[0244] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 25, a door opening device 60C of the present embodiment may include a first magnetic unit 330 provided at the first door 30 and a second magnetic unit 850 provided at the second door 40.

[0245] The first magnetic unit 330 of the present embodiment is identical to the first magnetic unit 330 of the first embodiment.

[0246] The second magnetic unit 850 may include a third magnet 860 and a housing 851 in which the third magnet 860 is received. Alternatively, the second magnetic unit 850 may include a third magnet and a fourth magnet.

[0247] The door opening device 60C may further include a case 610A in which the housing 851 is movably installed.

[0248] The housing 851 may move in a direction crossing the first moving member 640. For example, the housing 851 may be installed at the case 610A so as to be movable in the Y-axis direction.

[0249] The third magnet 860 may be positioned so that a portion having the same polarity as the first magnet 334 faces the first magnet 334.

[0250] The housing 851 may include a receiving portion 851a that receives the third magnet 860. The case 610A may include a mounting portion that forms a space in which the housing 851 is positioned.

[0251] The mounting portion may include a first portion 611 and a second portion 612 spaced apart from the first portion 611. The second portion 612 may be spaced apart from the first portion 611 in the X-axis direction. The receiving portion 851a may be positioned in the space between the first portion 611 and the second portion 612.

[0252] The first portion 611 may be provided with a first guide 611a. The second portion 612 may be provided with a second guide 612a. The first guide 611a and the second guide 612a may guide a movement of the receiving portion 851a in the Y-axis direction. Of course, either of the first guide 611a and the second guide 612a may be omitted.

[0253] The housing 851 may include a third guide 852 that interacts with the first guide 611a.

[0254] The first guide 611a may protrude from the first portion 611 toward the second portion 612. The third guide 852 may protrude from the receiving portion 851a. The third guide 852 may be positioned at a upper side or a lower side of the first guide 611a. That is, the first guide 611a and the second guide 852 may overlap in the Z-axis direction.

[0255] As another example, the third guide 852 may be formed by being recessed, and the first guide 611a may be received in the third guide 852.

[0256] The housing 851 may further include a fourth guide 853 that operates with the second guide 612a.

[0257] The second guide 612a may protrude from the second portion 612 toward the first portion 611. The fourth guide 853 may receive the second guide 612a.

[0258] The fourth guide 853 may include a plurality of protrusions 853a and 853b protruding from the receiving portion 851a. The plurality of protrusions 853a and 853b are spaced apart from each other in the Z-axis direction, and the second guide 612a may be received between the plurality of protrusions 853a and 853b.

[0259] As another example, it is also possible for the fourth guide 853 to protrude from the receiving portion 851a and the second guide 612a to be formed by being recessed in the second portion 612, so that the fourth guide 853 is received in the second guide 612a.

[0260] Of course, either of the third guide 852 or the fourth guide 853 may be omitted.

[0261] The housing 851 may further include an extension 854 extending from the receiving portion 851a. The extension 854 may, for example, extend in the X-axis direction at the receiving portion 851a. The extension 854 may be setated on the first portion 611 or the second portion 612.

[0262] The first moving member 640 may include a first contact portion 648 for contacting the housing 851. The housing 851 may include a second contact portion 855 for contacting the first contact portion 648.

[0263] At the first position of the first moving member 640, the first contact portion 648 and the second contact portion 855 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0264] In the process of the first moving member 640 moving from the first position to the second position, the first contact portion 648 may be in contact with the second contact portion 855. When the first moving member 640 moves further in a state in which the first contact portion 648 is in contact with the second contact portion 855, the moving force of the first moving member 640 is transmitted to the housing 851, so that the housing 851 may be moved.

[0265] In the process of the first moving member 640 moving in the first direction, the first contact portion 648 may include a first inclined surface 648a, and the second contact portion 855 may include a second inclined surface 855a so that the housing 851 moves in a direction crossing the first direction.

[0266] For example, when the first moving member 640 moves in the X-axis direction, the housing 851 (the second magnetic unit) may move in the Y-axis direction.

[0267] The second inclined surface 855a may be inclined in a direction away from the first contact portion 648 as it moves away from the first magnetic unit 330.

[0268] Depending on a distance between the third magnet 860 and the first magnet 334 having the same polarity, a magnitude of the repulsive force between the third magnet 860 and the first magnet 334 may be different.

[0269] During a movement process of the first moving member 640 for automatic opening of the second door 40, the housing 851 (or the second magnetic unit) may move from an initial position to an end position.

[0270] As the housing 851 moves from the initial position to the end position, a distance between the third magnet 860 and the first magnet 334 may decrease.

[0271] At the initial position of the housing 851, a repulsive force between the third magnet 860 and the first magnet 334 is less than a reference value.

[0272] During the process in which the first moving member 640 moves in the first direction, the first inclined surface 648a may be in contact with the second inclined surface 855a.

[0273] The locking device 70 may be in an unlocked state before or at the time the first contact portion 648 is in contact with the second contact portion 855. Alternatively, the locking device 70 may be in an unlocked state after the first contact portion 648 is in contact with the second contact portion 855.

[0274] After the first inclined surface 648a is in contact with the second inclined surface 855a, the housing 851 may be moved from the initial position to the end position by further movement of the first moving member 640.

[0275] When the repulsive force between the third magnet 860 and the first magnet 334 exceeds a reference value during the process in which the housing 851 moves to the end position, the second door 40 may be automatically opened. For example, the second door 40 may be automatically opened when the repulsive force becomes greater than the reference value before the housing 851 moves to the end position or at a timing when the housing reaches the end position.

[0276] Meanwhile, when the second door 40 is rotated at an angle equal to or less than a reference angle while the second door 40 is closed after the second door 40 is opened, the repulsive force between the first magnet 334 and the third magnet 860 becomes greater than the return reference value, so that the housing 851 may move from the end position to the initial position by the repulsive force.

[0277] FIG. 26A is a drawing showing a door opening device at a first position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment, and FIG. 26B is a drawing showing a portion of a door opening device at a first position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment.

[0278] FIG. 27 is a drawing showing a connection structure of a first moving member and a housing.

[0279] FIG. 28A is a perspective view showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment, and FIG. 28B is a front view showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a first position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment.

[0280] FIG. 29A is a perspective view showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment, and FIG. 29B is a front view showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit at a second position of a first moving member according to a fifth embodiment.

[0281] This embodiment is identical to the first embodiment in other respects, except that it differs a structure of the first moving member and the second magnetic unit. Therefore, only the characteristic portions of this embodiment will be described below, and the same drawing reference numerals will be used for the same components as the first embodiment.

[0282] Referring to FIGS. 26 to 29, a door opening device 60D of the present embodiment may include a first magnetic unit 330 provided at the first door 30 and a second magnetic unit 950 provided at the second door 40.

[0283] The first magnetic unit 330 of the present embodiment is identical to the first magnetic unit 330 of the first embodiment.

[0284] The second magnetic unit 950 may include a third magnet 960 and a housing 951 in which the third magnet 960 is received. Alternatively, the second magnetic unit 950 may include a third magnet and a fourth magnet.

[0285] The door opening device 60D may further include a case 610B in which the housing 951 is movably installed.

[0286] The housing 951 may be moved in a direction crossing the first moving member 640. For example, the housing 951 may be installed at the case 610B so as to be movable in the Z-axis direction.

[0287] The third magnet 960 may be positioned so that a portion having the same polarity as the first magnet 334 is adjacent to the first magnet 334.

[0288] The housing 951 may form a receiving portion that receives the third magnet 860. The case 610B may include a mounting portion that forms a space in which the housing 951 is positioned.

[0289] The mounting portion may include a first portion 614 and a second portion 615 spaced apart from the first portion 614. The second portion 615 may be spaced apart from the first portion 614 in the X-axis direction. The housing 951 may be positioned in the space between the first portion 614 and the second portion 615.

[0290] At least one of the first portion 614 or the second portion 615 may be provided with a first guide 614a, 615a.

[0291] The first guides 614a and 615a may guide a Z-axis movement of the housing 951.

[0292] The housing 951 may include a second guide 953, 954 that operates with the first guide 614a, 615a. The second guide 953, 954 may protrude from the housing 951. The first guides 614a, 615a may be formed by being recessed into at least one of the first portion 614 or the second portion 615. Accordingly, the second guides 953, 954 may be received in the first guides 614a, 615a.

[0293] Conversely, the first guide 614a, 615a may protrude from at least one of the first portion 614 or the second portion 615, and the second guide 953, 954, which receives the first guide 614a, 615a, may be formed by being recessed in the housing 951.

[0294] The first moving member 640 may include a moving guide 649 for moving the housing 951.

[0295] The moving guide 649 may include a guide slot 649a. The housing 951 may include a guide protrusion 952 received in the guide slot 649a.

[0296] The guide slot 649a may include a first slot 649b and a second slot 649c extending from the first slot 649b. The first slot 649b may extend in the X-axis direction or the horizontal direction. The second slot 649c may extend from the first slot 649b so as to be inclined in an upward or downward direction.

[0297] At the first position of the first moving member 640, the guide protrusion 952 may be positioned in the first slot 649b. At the first position of the first moving member 640, the third magnet 950 and the first magnet 334 may be positioned at different heights.

[0298] For example, at the first position of the first moving member 640, the repulsive force between the third magnet 950 and the first magnet 334 is less than a reference value. Alternatively, an attractive force may be generated between the third magnet 950 and the first magnet 334.

[0299] At the first position of the first moving member 640 or the initial position of the housing 951, the third magnet 950 may not overlap the first magnet 334 in the Y-axis direction.

[0300] In the process of the first moving member 640 moving from the first position to the second position, a relative position of the guide protrusion 252 in the guide slot 649 may be changed.

[0301] In the process in which the first moving member 640 moves from the first position to the second position, the second magnetic unit 950 may remain stationary in a period in which the guide protrusion 952 is positioned within the first slot 649b.

[0302] The locking device 70 may be in an unlocked state while the guide protrusion 952 is positioned within the first slot 649b or at a timing when the guide protrusion 952 moves from the first slot 649b to the second slot 649c. Alternatively, it is also possible that the locking device 70 becomes unlocked after the guide protrusion 952 moves to the second slot 649c.

[0303] In the process in which the first moving member 640 moves from the first position to the second position in the first direction, the second magnetic unit 950 may move in the Z-axis direction in a period in which the guide protrusion 952 is located within the second slot 649c. For example, the second magnetic unit 950 rises, reducing a distance or height difference between the third magnet 950 and the first magnet 334.

[0304] During the movement process of the first moving member 640 for automatic opening of the second door 40, the housing 951 may move from the initial position to the end position.

[0305] Depending on a distance between the third magnet 960 and the first magnet 334 having the same polarity, a magnitude of the repulsive force between the third magnet 960 and the first magnet 334 may be different.

[0306] As the housing 951 moves from the initial position to the end position, a distance or height difference between the third magnet 960 and the first magnet 334 may be reduced.

[0307] In the process of the housing 951 moving to the end position, the third magnet 960 may overlap the first magnet 334 in the Y-axis direction.

[0308] When the repulsive force between the third magnet 960 and the first magnet 334 exceeds a reference value during the process of the housing 951 moving to the end position, the second door 40 may be automatically opened. For example, the second door 40 may be automatically opened when the repulsive force becomes greater than a reference value before the housing 951 moves to the end position or at a timing when the housing 951 reaches the end position.

[0309] Meanwhile, when the first moving member 640 moves in a second direction opposite to the first direction after the second door 40 is opened and the second door 40 is closed, the housing 951 may move from the end position to the initial position.

[0310] FIG. 30 is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit according to a sixth embodiment.

[0311] This embodiment is identical to the previous embodiments in other respects, except that it differs that at least one of the first magnetic unit or the second magnetic unit is an electromagnet. Therefore, only the characteristic portions of this embodiment will be described below.

[0312] First, referring to FIG. 30A, the first door 30 may include a first magnetic unit 330B, and the second door 40 may include a second magnetic unit 650B.

[0313] The first magnetic unit 330B may include an electromagnet. The second magnetic unit 650B may include a permanent magnet. The first magnetic unit 330B may be fixed in position at the first door 30, and the second magnetic unit 650B may be fixed in position at the second door 40.

[0314] When a door opening command of the second door 30 is detected, current may be applied to the first magnetic unit 330B. When a portion of the first magnetic unit 330B facing the second magnetic unit 650B is magnetized with the same magnetic stimulus as the second magnetic unit 650B, a repulsive force may be applied between the two magnetic units.

[0315] When the door opening command is detected, the locking device 70 may be automatically operated by the same structure or a modified structure as previously described.

[0316] As another example, when a manual operation of the locking device 70 is detected, it is also possible to determine that the door opening command is detected. Alternatively, it is also possible that no current is supplied to the first magnetic unit when the locking device 70 is manually operated.

[0317] Next, referring to FIG. 30B, the first door 30 may include the first magnetic unit 330C, and the second door 40 may include the second magnetic unit 650C.

[0318] The first magnetic unit 330C may include a permanent magnet. The second magnetic unit 650C may include an electromagnet. The first magnetic unit 330C may be fixed in position at the first door 30, and the second magnetic unit 650C may be fixed in position at the second door 40.

[0319] When a door opening command of the second door 30 is detected, current may be applied to the second magnetic unit 650C. When a portion of the second magnetic unit 650C facing the first magnetic unit 330C is magnetized with the same magnetic force as the first magnetic unit 300C, a repulsive force may be applied between the two magnetic units.

[0320] When the door opening command is detected, the locking device 70 may be automatically operated by the same structure or a modified structure as previously described.

[0321] As another example, when a manual operation of the locking device 70 is detected, it is also possible to determine that the door opening command is detected. Alternatively, it is also possible that no current is supplied to the second magnetic unit when the locking device 70 is manually operated.

[0322] Next, referring to FIG. 30C, the first door 30 may include a first magnetic unit 330B, and the second door 40 may include a second magnetic unit 650C.

[0323] The first magnetic unit 330B may include an electromagnet. The second magnetic unit 650C may include an electromagnet. The first magnetic unit 330B may be fixed in position at the first door 30, and the second magnetic unit 650C may be fixed in position at the second door 40.

[0324] When the door opening command of the second door 30 is detected, current may be applied to the first magnetic unit 330B and the second magnetic unit 650C.

[0325] When facing portions of the first magnetic unit 330B and the second magnetic unit 650C are respectively magnetized to have the same polarity, a repulsive force may act between the two magnetic units.

[0326] When the door opening command is detected, the locking device 70 may be automatically operated by the same structure or a modified structure as previously described.

[0327] As another example, when a manual operation of the locking device 70 is detected, it is also possible to determine that the door opening command is detected. Alternatively, it is also possible that no current is supplied to each magnetic unit when the locking device 70 is manually operated.

[0328] FIG. 31 is a drawing showing a first magnetic unit and a second magnetic unit according to a seventh embodiment.

[0329] This embodiment is identical to the previous embodiments in other respects, except that it differs that a first magnetic unit provided at the first door is movable. Therefore, only the characteristic portions of this embodiment will be described below.

[0330] First, referring to FIG. 31A, the first door 30 may include the first magnetic unit 330D, and the second door 40 may include the second magnetic unit 650.

[0331] Each of the first magnetic unit 330D and the second magnetic unit 650 may include a permanent magnet. The first magnetic unit 330D may be movably positioned at the first door 30, and the second magnetic unit 650 may be fixed in position at the second door 40.

[0332] The first magnetic unit 330D may move in the X-axis direction as shown in FIG. 30A, or may move in the Y-axis direction as shown in FIG. 30B, or may move in the Z-axis direction as shown in FIG. 30C.

[0333] When the door opening command is detected, the moving member for moving the first magnetic unit 330D may be operated by the driver. In addition, the locking device 70 may also be automatically operated by the same structure as previously described or a modified structure.

[0334] As another example, when a manual operation of the locking device 70 is detected, it is also possible to determine that the door opening command is detected. Alternatively, when a manual operation of the locking device 70 is performed, it is also possible to maintain the first magnetic unit 330D in a stopped state.

[0335] Alternatively, the locking device 70 may be provided at the first door 30. In this case, the locking device 70 may also be automatically operated by a moving member for moving the first magnetic unit 330D.

Claims

1. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet having forming a storage space; a first door that opens and closes the storage space; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; and a door opening device to automatically open the second door, wherein the door opening device includes a first magnetic unit provided at the first door and a second magnetic unit provided at the second door, and the second door is automatically opened by interaction between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1, further comprising a locking device that allows the first door and the second door to be in a locked state or an unlocked state when the second door is closed, wherein when the door opening device operates, the door opening device opens the second door after moving the locking device to an unlocked position.

3. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein in a non-operational state of the door opening device, the locking device is manually moved to the unlocked position by the user's operation.

4. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the second magnetic unit is movably provided at the second door.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein the door opening device includes a driver and a moving member that receives power from the driver, and in a process of opening the second door, the second magnetic unit is moved together with the moving member or moved by receiving a moving force of the moving member.

6. The refrigerator of claim 5, wherein the first magnetic unit includes a first magnet having a first pole and a second magnet having a second pole opposite to the first pole, the second magnetic unit includes a third magnet having the first pole, the third magnet moves in a direction closer to the first magnet to open the second door.

7. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein when the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in a Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door, the first magnet and the third magnet are arranged in the Y-axis direction, and the third magnet moves in an X-axis direction so that the first magnet and the third magnet overlap in the Y-axis direction to open the second door.

8. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein when the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in a Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door, the first magnet and the third magnet are arranged to have a height difference in a Z-axis direction crossing the Y-axis, and the third magnet moves in the Z-axis direction so that a height difference between the third magnet and the first magnet is reduced to open the second door.

9. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein when the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in a Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door, the first magnet and the third magnet are arranged to overlap in the Y-axis direction, and the third magnet moves in the Y-axis direction to get closer to the first magnet to open the second door.

10. The refrigerator of claim 9, wherein in a process of opening the second door, the moving member moves from a first position to a second position, the second magnetic unit moves from an initial position to an end position, and after the opening of the second door is completed, if the second door is rotated by an angle equal to or less than a reference angle, the second magnetic unit moves from the end position to the initial position by repulsive force of the third magnet and the first magnet.

11. The refrigerator of claim 5, wherein the first magnetic unit includes a first magnet and a second magnet arranged in an X-axis direction crossing a Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door, when the second door is closed, the second magnetic unit includes a third magnet and a fourth magnet arranged in the X-axis direction, when the second door is closed, the third magnet is positioned closer to the first magnet than the fourth magnet, and the third magnet moves to a position in which the third magnet overlaps the second magnet in the Y-axis direction to open the second door.

12. The refrigerator of claim 11, wherein each of the first magnet and the third magnet includes a N-pole and a S-pole, and when the second door is closed, the N-pole of the first magnet is positioned adjacent to the S-pole of the third magnet, or the S-pole of the first magnet is positioned adjacent to the N-pole of the third magnet.

13. The refrigerator of claim 7, wherein in a process of opening the second door, the moving member moves from a first position to a second position, the second magnetic unit moves from an initial position to an end position, and after the opening of the second door is completed, the second magnetic unit moves from the end position to the initial position by the moving member during a process of the moving member moving from the second position to the first position.

14. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first magnet unit is fixed in position at the first door, the second magnetic unit is fixed in position at the second door, when the second door is closed, the second magnetic unit are arranged to overlap the first magnetic unit in a Y-axis direction, which is an arrangement direction of the first door and the second door, and the second door includes a shielding portion that shields at least a portion of magnetic force between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit.

15. The refrigerator of claim 14, wherein the door opening device includes a driver and a moving member that receives power from the driver, and during an opening process of the second door, the shielding portion moves by receiving a moving power of the moving member.

16. The refrigerator of claim 14, wherein the door opening device further includes a driver for moving the shielding portion.

17. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein the first magnetic unit is movably provided at the first door.

18. The refrigerator of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first magnet unit or the second magnet unit includes an electromagnet.

19. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet having a storage space; a first door that opens and closes the storage space; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; a first magnetic unit provided at the first door; a second magnetic unit provided at the second door; a moving member configured to move the first magnetic unit or the second magnetic unit; and a driver configured to drive the moving member, wherein in a process of opening the second door, when the driver operates to move the first magnetic unit or the second magnetic unit so that a magnitude of repulsive force of the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit is greater than a reference value, the second door is automatically opened.

20. A refrigerator comprising: a cabinet having a storage space; a first door that opens and closes the storage space; a second door rotatable with respect to the first door; a first magnetic unit provided at the first door; a second magnetic unit provided at the second door; a locking device for allowing the first door and the second door to be in a locked state or an unlocked state; a moving member configured to move the locking device; and a driver configured to drive the moving member, wherein when a door opening command is input, the moving member moves the locking device to an unlocked position, and then the second door is automatically opened by interaction between the first magnetic unit and the second magnetic unit.

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