Refrigerator

Abstract

To provide a refrigerator having a neat appearance.SOLUTION: A refrigerator includes a housing and a door. The housing includes a storage chamber. The door is adjacent to another member in an adjacent direction intersecting the front-rear direction. The door has a hand grip. The handhold is disposed at a position that can be used by moving another member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a refrigerator. [Background technology]

[0002] Refrigerators having revolving doors or drawer doors are known. However, it is sometimes preferable for refrigerators to have a neat appearance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-044736 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a refrigerator having a neat appearance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A refrigerator according to an embodiment has a housing and a door. The housing includes a storage compartment. The door is adjacent to another member in an adjacent direction intersecting a front-to-rear direction. The door has a handle. The handle is located at a position that can be used as a handle by moving the other member. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a refrigerator according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator taken along line F3-F3 in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. [Figure 6] 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F6-F6 of the door-opening operation part shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F8-F8 of the hidden handle shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 9] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the hidden handle taken along line F8-F8 in FIG. 2, showing the state in which the hidden handle can be used as a handle. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the refrigerator, showing a state in which a user is using the hidden handle of the freezer compartment door with the leg cover removed. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the refrigerator, showing a state in which a user is using the hidden handle of the freezer door with the refrigerator door open. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the hidden handle. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a refrigerator according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a refrigerator according to a third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a refrigerator according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a refrigerator according to a fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, a refrigerator according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or similar functions will be denoted by the same reference numerals. Duplicate descriptions of those components may be omitted.

[0008] In this specification, left and right are defined based on the direction in which the refrigerator is viewed from a user standing in front of the refrigerator. Additionally, the side closer to the user standing in front of the refrigerator as viewed from the refrigerator is defined as the "front," and the side further away is defined as the "rear." In this specification, the left and right direction in the above definition is defined as the left and right direction X. In this specification, the front and back direction in the above definition is defined as the front and back direction Y. In this specification, the up and down direction is defined as the up and down direction Z. In the drawings, the +X direction is the left direction, the -X direction is the right direction, the +Y direction is the front direction, the -Y direction is the rear direction, the +Z direction is the up direction, and the -Z direction is the down direction.

[0009] (First embodiment) [Refrigerator 100] A refrigerator 100 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 11. First, the refrigerator 100 will be described as a whole. However, the refrigerator 100 does not need to have all of the components described below, and some components may be omitted as appropriate.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of refrigerator 100. FIG. 2 is a front view of refrigerator 100. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of refrigerator 100 taken along line F3-F3 in FIG. 2. Refrigerator 100 has a hidden handle (handle) 9 for manually moving door 2, and since hidden handle 9 is not visible from the front, the refrigerator has a neat appearance. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, refrigerator 100 includes a housing 1, a door 2, a refrigeration cycle device 5, a control unit 6, a door-opening device 7, and a door-opening operation unit 8.

[0011] The housing 1 is a box-shaped member that constitutes the main body of the refrigerator 100 and is grounded to the ground. The housing 1 has an inner box 11, an outer box 12, and a heat insulating part 13, as shown in FIGS.

[0012] The inner box 11 is a member that forms the inner surface of the housing 1. The inner box 11 is formed, for example, from a material containing synthetic resin. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the inner box 11 has an upper inner wall 11a, a lower inner wall 11b, a left inner wall 11c, a right inner wall 11d, and a rear inner wall 11e.

[0013] The upper inner wall 11a and the lower inner wall 11b have a plate shape with the thickness direction in the vertical direction Z and extend substantially horizontally. The left inner wall 11c rises upward from the left end of the lower inner wall 11b and is connected to the left end of the upper inner wall 11a. The right inner wall 11d rises upward from the right end of the lower inner wall 11b and is connected to the right end of the upper inner wall 11a. The rear inner wall 11e rises upward from the rear end of the lower inner wall 11b and is connected to the rear end of the upper inner wall 11a. The rear inner wall 11e extends rightward from the rear end of the left inner wall 11c and is connected to the rear end of the right inner wall 11d.

[0014] The outer box 12 is a member that forms the outer surface of the housing 1. The outer box 12 is formed to be slightly larger than the inner box 11 and is disposed outside the inner box 11. The outer box 12 is formed, for example, from a material containing metal. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the outer box 12 has an upper outer wall 12a, a lower outer wall 12b, a left outer wall 12c, a right outer wall 12d, and a rear outer wall 12e.

[0015] The upper outer wall 12a and the lower outer wall 12b have a plate shape with the thickness direction in the vertical direction Z and extend approximately horizontally. The left outer wall 12c rises upward from the left end of the lower outer wall 12b and is connected to the left end of the upper outer wall 12a. The right outer wall 12d rises upward from the right end of the lower outer wall 12b and is connected to the right end of the upper outer wall 12a. The rear outer wall 12e rises upward from the rear end of the lower outer wall 12b and is connected to the rear end of the upper outer wall 12a. The rear outer wall 12e extends rightward from the rear end of the left outer wall 12c and is connected to the rear end of the right outer wall 12d.

[0016] The heat insulating section 13 is a member that reduces heat transfer. The heat insulating section 13 is provided to keep the inside of the housing 1 at a low temperature. The heat insulating section 13 is provided between the inner box 11 and the outer box 12. The heat insulating section 13 is formed, for example, by including a foamed insulation material made of urethane foam or the like, and is filled between the inner box 11 and the outer box 12.

[0017] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a plurality of storage compartments 16 are formed inside the housing 1. The plurality of storage compartments 16 include, for example, a refrigerator compartment 16a, a vegetable compartment 16b, and a freezer compartment 16c. In this embodiment, the refrigerator compartment 16a is located on the top shelf, the vegetable compartment 16b is located below the refrigerator compartment 16a, and the freezer compartment 16c is located below the vegetable compartment 16b.

[0018] The multiple storage compartments 16 are divided into multiple temperature zones, including a refrigeration temperature zone and a freezing temperature zone, which is a temperature zone lower than the refrigeration temperature zone. The temperature of the refrigerator compartment 16a is in the refrigeration temperature zone. The temperature of the vegetable compartment 16b is in the refrigeration temperature zone. The temperature of the vegetable compartment 16b is maintained at a higher temperature than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 16a. The temperature of the freezer compartment 16c is in the freezing temperature zone.

[0019] As shown in Fig. 3, the housing 1 has a first partition 14 and a second partition 15. The first partition 14 and the second partition 15 are, for example, partition walls that extend substantially horizontally. The first partition 14 is located between the refrigerator compartment 16a and the vegetable compartment 16b, separating the refrigerator compartment 16a from the vegetable compartment 16b. The second partition 15 is located between the vegetable compartment 16b and the freezer compartment 16c, separating the vegetable compartment 16b from the freezer compartment 16c.

[0020] Refrigerating compartment 16a is surrounded by, for example, upper inner wall 11a, left inner wall 11c, right inner wall 11d, rear inner wall 11e, and first partition 14. Vegetable compartment 16b is surrounded by, for example, left inner wall 11c, right inner wall 11d, rear inner wall 11e, first partition 14, and second partition 15. Freezing compartment 16c is formed by, for example, lower inner wall 11b, left inner wall 11c, right inner wall 11d, rear inner wall 11e, and second partition 15. Housing 1 has openings 17 on the front side of each storage compartment 16 to allow ingredients, food, etc. to be placed in and removed from each storage compartment 16.

[0021] Openings 17 of the storage compartments 16 are openably and closably closed by doors 2. The doors 2 include, for example, left and right refrigerator compartment doors 3a and 3b that close openings 17 of the refrigerator compartment 16a and vegetable compartment 16b. The doors 2 include, for example, left and right freezer compartment doors 4a and 4b that close opening 17 of the freezer compartment 16c.

[0022] The refrigerator compartment doors 3a and 3b are, for example, double-door doors. The refrigerator compartment doors 3a and 3b are rotatably supported on the housing 1 by hinges 18. The refrigerator compartment doors 3a and 3b are aligned in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. Focusing on the refrigerator compartment door 3a, the refrigerator compartment door 3b is another member adjacent to it on the front surface 32s and is the adjacent door aligned in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. Focusing on the refrigerator compartment door 3b, the refrigerator compartment door 3a is another member adjacent to it on the front surface 32s and is the adjacent door aligned in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X.

[0023] The freezer compartment doors 4a and 4b are, for example, double doors. The freezer compartment doors 4a and 4b are rotatably supported on the housing 1 by hinges 18. The freezer compartment doors 4a and 4b are lined up in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. Focusing on the freezer compartment door 4a, the freezer compartment door 4b is another member adjacent to it on the front surface 42s, and is the adjacent door lined up in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. Focusing on the freezer compartment door 4b, the freezer compartment door 4a is another member adjacent to it on the front surface 42s, and is the adjacent door lined up in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X.

[0024] The refrigerator compartment door 3a and the freezer compartment door 4a are lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. Focusing on the refrigerator compartment door 3a, the freezer compartment door 4a is another member adjacent to it on the front surface 32s, and is the adjacent door lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. Focusing on the freezer compartment door 4a, the refrigerator compartment door 3a is another member adjacent to it on the front surface 42s, and is the adjacent door lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z.

[0025] The refrigerator compartment door 3b and the freezer compartment door 4b are lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. Focusing on the refrigerator compartment door 3b, the freezer compartment door 4b is another member adjacent to it on the front surface 32s, and is the adjacent door lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. Focusing on the freezer compartment door 4b, the refrigerator compartment door 3b is another member adjacent to it on the front surface 32s, and is the adjacent door lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z.

[0026] The refrigeration cycle device 5 circulates a refrigerant and cools the air inside the housing 1. The refrigeration cycle device 5 is provided on the rear surface inside the housing 1. The refrigeration cycle device 5 has, for example, a machine chamber 51, cooling units 52a and 52b, flow path forming members 53a and 53b, and cooling fans 54a and 54b.

[0027] The machine room 51 is provided with devices for compressing and condensing the refrigerant. For example, a compressor, a condenser, an evaporating dish, etc. are provided in the machine room 51. The refrigerant circulating through the refrigeration cycle device 5 is compressed by the compressor and becomes a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. This gaseous refrigerant dissipates heat in the condenser and becomes a medium-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. This liquid refrigerant is sent to the cooling units 52a and 52b.

[0028] Cooling units 52a and 52b are provided with, for example, an evaporator. In the evaporator, the liquid refrigerant sent from the condenser is vaporized, thereby performing heat exchange between the refrigerant and the air inside housing 1, and cooling the air inside housing 1. Cooling unit 52a is, for example, disposed behind the refrigerator compartment and cools refrigerator compartment 16a and vegetable compartment 16b. Cooling unit 52b is, for example, disposed behind freezer compartment 16c and cools freezer compartment 16c.

[0029] The flow path forming member 53a forms a flow path through which the cold air supplied from the cooling unit 52a flows to the refrigerator compartment 16a and the vegetable compartment 16b. The flow path forming member 53b forms a flow path through which the cold air supplied from the cooling unit 52b flows to the freezer compartment 16c.

[0030] Cooling fan 54a blows the cool air formed by cooling unit 52a into a flow path surrounded by flow path forming member 53a, and forms a flow of cool air that circulates inside refrigerator compartment 16a and vegetable compartment 16b.

[0031] The cooling fan 54b blows the cool air formed by the cooling unit 52b into a flow path surrounded by the flow path forming member 53b, and forms a flow of cool air that circulates inside the freezer compartment 16c.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the upper outer wall 12a of the refrigerator 100. Control unit 6 comprehensively controls the entire refrigerator 100. For example, control unit 6 controls cooling units 52a, 52b, etc. based on the detection results of temperature sensors provided in refrigeration compartment 16a, freezer compartment 16c, etc. As shown in Figs. 3 and 5, control unit 6 has a board accommodating section 61, a board accommodating section lid member 62, a first control board 63, and a second control board 64.

[0033] The board accommodating section 61 is a box-shaped member that accommodates the first control board 63 and the second control board 64. The board accommodating section 61 has a generally rectangular container shape with an open top. The board accommodating section 61 is provided, for example, at the rear end 12s of the upper outer wall 12a of the housing 1. The board accommodating section lid 62 is detachably attached to the opening of the board accommodating section 61. The opening of the board accommodating section 61 can be closed by the board accommodating section lid 62. The board accommodating section 61 and the board accommodating section lid 62 are formed, for example, from a material containing synthetic resin.

[0034] First control board 63 is a power supply board that receives power from an external commercial power source PS via a power cord 67 and supplies power necessary for the cooling operation of refrigerator 100 to various parts. First control board 63 has a computer such as a microcomputer and controls the entire refrigerator 100.

[0035] Second control board 64 is connected to first control board 63 via power supply line 68, and receives power from an external commercial power source PS through first control board 63. Second control board 64 has a computer such as a microcomputer, and controls a part of or the entire refrigerator 100.

[0036] A wiring bundle 65 drawn from the first control board 63 and a wiring bundle 66 drawn from the second control board 64 are laid in the space between the inner box 11 and the outer box 12 of the housing 1.

[0037] The wiring bundle 65 includes control lines connected to the first control board 63, the cooling units 52a and 52b, and the door-opening device 7, and transmits control signals from the first control board 63 to the cooling units 52a and 52b and the door-opening device 7.

[0038] The wiring bundle 66 is a power supply line that supplies power to the door-opening operation unit 8 and the like. Note that the wiring bundle 66 may also include a power supply line that supplies power from the first control board 63 to the door-opening operation unit 8 and the like.

[0039] The first control board 63 and the second control board 64 do not have to be two independent control boards, but may be a single control board. The first control board 63 and the second control board 64 may be provided on the rear outer wall 12e of the housing 1.

[0040] [Door Opening Device 7] Next, the configuration of the door-opening device 7 will be described. The door opening device 7 is a device operable to open the door 2. The door opening device 7 is a device that automatically opens the door 2. The door opening device 7 is operable to open, for example, the refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b and the freezer compartment doors 4a, 4b. The door opening device 7 is provided, for example, on the upper outer wall 12a of the housing 1, and operates on the refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b. As shown in FIG. 5, the door opening device 7 provided on the upper outer wall 12a is covered from above by a detachably attached cover member 73.

[0041] The door-opening device 7 has, for example, a drive device for opening the door 2 and other members such as a housing member for housing the drive device. In this embodiment, the drive device uses a solenoid system that has, for example, a movable iron core that is pushed forward when an electromagnet is excited, and a cylindrical coil provided around the movable iron core, and moves the movable iron core arranged inside the cylindrical coil by electromagnetic force obtained by passing a current through the cylindrical coil.

[0042] The door-opening device 7 uses a solenoid-based drive device, and when a current is passed through a cylindrical coil, an electromagnetic force is generated to move the movable iron core in a straight line, thereby opening the door 2. A drive device that uses a solenoid system is sometimes called a solenoid actuator.

[0043] With this type of drive device, the movable iron core inside the cylindrical coil moves forward with force due to electromagnetic force, thereby forcing the door 2 out in the opening direction. Note that the power from the movable iron core is transmitted to the door while the movable iron core is in contact with the door 2.

[0044] The door 2 opens due to the pushing force of the movable iron core, and then rotates to a predetermined angle due to the inertia caused by the pushing force. When the inertial movement weakens, the opening speed of the door 2 slows down. In this way, the door 2 is kept in a state of being opened to a certain extent.

[0045] 5, the door opening device 7 is made up of a left door opening device 71 and a right door opening device 72. The left door opening device 71 operates, for example, on the refrigerator compartment door 3a. The right door opening device 72 operates, for example, on the refrigerator compartment door 3b.

[0046] The left-door opening device 71 is disposed behind the refrigerator compartment door 3a. The left-door opening device 71 has a plunger 74 as a movable iron core that is pushed forward when an electromagnet is excited, and a cylindrical coil provided around the plunger 74.

[0047] The right door-opening device 72 is disposed behind the refrigerator compartment door 3b. The right door-opening device 72 has a plunger 75 as a movable iron core that is pushed forward when an electromagnet is excited, and a cylindrical coil provided around the plunger 75.

[0048] The cylindrical coil is formed by tightly winding a copper wire, for example, in a spiral shape. The plungers 74 and 75 are movable iron cores provided inside the cylindrical coil and move linearly using electromagnetic force generated when a current is passed through the cylindrical coil. The direction of the linear movement of the plungers 74 and 75 coincides with the forward-backward direction Y.

[0049] The door-opening device 7 is controlled by the control unit 6, and pushes the plungers 74, 75 forward to forcibly open the refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b.

[0050] [Refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b and freezer compartment doors 4a, 4b] Next, the configurations of the refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b and the freezer compartment doors 4a, 4b will be described. FIG. 4 is a side view showing refrigerator compartment doors 3a and 3b and freezer compartment doors 4a and 4b.

[0051] The refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b have a door body 31 and a decorative panel 32. The door body 31 is the main body of the refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b and is a member that can open and close the openings 17 of the refrigerator compartment 16a and the vegetable compartment 16b. The door body 31 has a frame portion 34 and a rear surface material 35. The door body 31 is configured by attaching the rear surface material 35 to the frame portion 34. The door body 31 is formed, for example, in a size that can close the openings 17 of the refrigerator compartment 16a and the vegetable compartment 16b.

[0052] A gasket 36 is attached to the outer edge of the rear surface 31t of the door body 31. The gasket 36 is a member that closes the gap between the door body 31 and the edge of the front surface of the housing 1 when the refrigerator compartment doors 3a and 3b are closed.

[0053] The decorative panel 32 is a member that covers the front surface of the door body 31. The decorative panel 32 is made of a decorative material that is approximately flat. The shape of the decorative panel 32 is not limited to a approximately flat shape. The decorative panel 32 may have any shape that integrally covers the left and right side surfaces and the front surface of the door body 31. The decorative panel 32 is a thin plate made of, for example, glass, steel plate, stainless steel plate, fiber-reinforced resin, ceramic, artificial marble, or the like. The decorative panel 32 is given a color, pattern, and surface treatment in consideration of the design of the refrigerator 100. In this embodiment, the decorative panel 32 is formed to include glass.

[0054] The decorative panel 32 is fixed to the front surface of the frame portion 34. The decorative panel 32 is fixed to the front surface of the frame portion 34, for example, with an adhesive. As the adhesive, for example, a spreadable adhesive or adhesive tape can be used. Note that the adhesive is not limited as long as it can fix the decorative panel 32 to the frame portion 34.

[0055] The space between the frame 34, the rear panel 35, and the decorative panel 32 is filled with foam insulation material. The foam insulation material also comes into contact with the rear surface of the decorative panel 32. By filling the space with foam insulation material, the frame 34 and the decorative panel 32 are stably maintained in a fixed state.

[0056] The freezer compartment doors 4a, 4b have a door body 41 and a decorative panel 42. The door body 41 is the main body of the freezer compartment doors 4a, 4b and is a member that can open and close the opening 17 of the freezer compartment 16c. The door body 41 has a frame portion 44 and a rear surface material 45. The door body 41 is configured by attaching the rear surface material 45 to the frame portion 44. The door body 41 is formed, for example, to a size that can close the opening 17 of the freezer compartment 16c.

[0057] A gasket 46 is attached to the outer edge of the rear surface 41t of the door body 41. The gasket 46 is a member that closes the gap between the door body 41 and the edge of the front surface of the housing 1 when the freezer compartment doors 4a, 4b are closed.

[0058] The decorative panel 42 is a member that covers the front surface of the door body 41. The decorative panel 42 is made of a decorative material that is approximately flat. The shape of the decorative panel 42 is not limited to being approximately flat. The decorative panel 42 may have any shape that integrally covers the left and right side surfaces and the front surface of the door body 41. The decorative panel 42 is a thin plate made of, for example, glass, steel plate, stainless steel plate, fiber-reinforced resin, ceramic, artificial marble, or the like. The decorative panel 42 is given a color, pattern, and surface treatment in consideration of the design of the refrigerator 100. In this embodiment, the decorative panel 42 is formed to include glass.

[0059] The decorative panel 42 is fixed to the front surface of the frame portion 44. The decorative panel 42 is fixed to the front surface of the frame portion 44, for example, with an adhesive. As the adhesive, for example, a spreadable adhesive or adhesive tape can be used. Note that the adhesive is not limited as long as it can fix the decorative panel 42 to the frame portion 44.

[0060] The space between the frame portion 44, the rear surface material 45, and the decorative panel 42 is filled with foam insulation material. The foam insulation material also comes into contact with the rear surface of the decorative panel 42. By filling the space with foam insulation material, the fixed state between the frame portion 44 and the decorative panel 42 is stably maintained.

[0061] The refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b are provided with handles 37a, 37b. A user U can move the refrigerator compartment doors 3a, 3b by placing his / her hands on the handles 37a, 37b. The handles 37a, 37b are, for example, recesses recessed from the side surfaces of the door 2. The handles 37a, 37b may also be non-slip surfaces formed on the side surfaces of the door 2. The depth of the handles 37a, 37b is preferably at least 10 mm or more. The depth of the handles 37a, 37b is more preferably 15 mm or more. The depth of the handles 37a, 37b is even more preferably 20 mm or more. The depth of the handles 37a, 37b is preferably at least 15 mm or more. The depth of the handles 37a, 37b is more preferably 20 mm or more. The depth of the handles 37a, 37b is more preferably 25 mm or more. The handle 37a is provided at the upper end 3as of the refrigerator compartment door 3a, and the handle 37b is provided at the upper end 3bs of the refrigerator compartment door 3b.

[0062] [Door opening operation section 8] Next, the configuration of the door-opening operation unit 8 will be described. The door-opening operation unit 8 is a member that can detect an input operation from the user U. When the door-opening operation unit 8 detects an input operation from the user U, it is a member that transmits a signal to the control unit 6 to operate the door-opening device 7. For example, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the door-opening operation unit 8 is made up of door-opening operation units 8a and 8b provided on the refrigerator compartment doors 3a and 3b, and door-opening operation units 8c and 8d provided on the freezer compartment doors 4a and 4b.

[0063] The door-opening operation unit 8a is a member that is operated to open the refrigerator compartment door 3a. When an input signal from the user U is detected, the door-opening operation unit 8a sends a signal to the control unit 6 to operate the door-opening device 7, thereby opening the refrigerator compartment door 3a. The door-opening operation unit 8a is provided on the refrigerator compartment door 3a. The door-opening operation unit 8a is provided, for example, on the front surface 32s of the refrigerator compartment door 3a. The location where the door-opening operation unit 8a is provided is not limited, and it may be provided, for example, in a separate device independent of the refrigerator 100. Instead of the door-opening operation unit 8a, a signal to operate the door-opening device 7 may be sent to the control unit 6 from a terminal such as a smartphone.

[0064] The door-opening operation unit 8b is a member that is operated to open the refrigerator compartment door 3b. When an input signal from the user U is detected, the door-opening operation unit 8b sends a signal to the control unit 6 to operate the door-opening device 7, thereby opening the refrigerator compartment door 3b. The door-opening operation unit 8b is provided on the refrigerator compartment door 3b. The door-opening operation unit 8b is provided, for example, on the front surface 32s of the refrigerator compartment door 3b. There are no limitations on the location where the door-opening operation unit 8b is provided, and it may be provided, for example, in a separate device independent of the refrigerator 100. Instead of the door-opening operation unit 8b, a signal to operate the door-opening device 7 may be sent to the control unit 6 from a terminal such as a smartphone.

[0065] The door-opening operation unit 8c is a member that is operated to open the freezer compartment door 4a. When an input signal from the user U is detected, the door-opening operation unit 8c transmits a signal to the control unit 6 to operate the door-opening device 7, thereby opening the freezer compartment door 4a. The door-opening operation unit 8c is provided on the freezer compartment door 4a. The door-opening operation unit 8c is provided, for example, on the front surface 32s of the freezer compartment door 4a. The location where the door-opening operation unit 8c is provided is not limited, and for example, it may be provided in a separate device independent of the refrigerator 100. Instead of the door-opening operation unit 8c, a signal to operate the door-opening device 7 may be sent to the control unit 6 from a terminal such as a smartphone.

[0066] The door-opening operation unit 8d is a member that is operated to open the freezer compartment door 4b. When an input signal from the user U is detected, the door-opening operation unit 8d transmits a signal to the control unit 6 to operate the door-opening device 7, thereby opening the freezer compartment door 4b. The door-opening operation unit 8d is provided on the freezer compartment door 4b. The door-opening operation unit 8d is provided, for example, on the front surface 32s of the freezer compartment door 4b. The location where the door-opening operation unit 8d is provided is not limited, and for example, it may be provided in a separate device independent of the refrigerator 100. Instead of the door-opening operation unit 8d, a signal to operate the door-opening device 7 may be sent to the control unit 6 from a terminal such as a smartphone.

[0067] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the door-opening operation unit 8 taken along line F6-F6 in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the door-opening operation unit 8 has a contacted portion 81 and a detection portion 82.

[0068] The contactable portion 81 is a member that is touched and operated by the user U. The contactable portion 81 is a substantially flat plate-shaped member. As shown in FIG. 6, the contactable portion 81 is provided in an opening formed in the front surface of the door 2. It is preferable that the front surface of the door 2 and the contactable portion 81 are provided so as to form substantially the same plane.

[0069] The detection unit 82 is a sensor (touch sensor) capable of detecting a touch operation input to the contacted unit 81. As shown in Fig. 6, the detection unit 82 is provided behind the contacted unit 81 and is electrically connected to the contacted unit 81. A heat insulating material 83 is provided around the detection unit 82.

[0070] The detection unit 82 is, for example, a capacitance sensor. The detection unit 82 uses the electrically connected contacted portion 81 as an electrode and is capable of detecting a change in capacitance at the contacted portion 81. When the finger or the like of the user U touches the contacted portion 81 and a touch operation is input to the contacted portion 81, the detection unit 82 detects the touch operation.

[0071] The detection unit 82 is connected to the first control board 63 via wiring (not shown). When the detection unit 82 detects a touch operation on the contactable portion 81, the control unit 6 operates the door-opening device 7. Therefore, the user U can easily open the door 2 by touching the contactable portion 81.

[0072] [Hidden Hand 9] Next, the hidden handle (handle) 9 will be described. Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the hidden handle 9. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line F8-F8 of the hidden handle 9 shown in Fig. 2.

[0073] The hidden handle 9 is a component provided on the door 2 and positioned so that it can be used as a handle by moving another adjacent component. The other component is adjacent to the door 2 in an adjacent direction intersecting the front-rear direction Y. The adjacent direction is, for example, a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction Y. The left-right direction X and the up-down direction Z are examples of adjacent directions. When the other component is positioned adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction, the hidden handle 9 is positioned so that it cannot normally be used as a handle. When the other component is positioned adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction, the hidden handle 9 is positioned so that a user U cannot place their hand on it. When the other component is positioned adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction, the other component prevents the user U from placing their hand on the hidden handle 9, making the hidden handle 9 unusable as a handle.

[0074] Specifically, when the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, the space extending from the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction is open. When the other component is adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction, the other component is disposed in the space extending from the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction, and the hidden handle 9 cannot be used as a handle. By moving the other component from a state in which the other component is adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction, the space extending from the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction is opened, and the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle.

[0075] More specifically, the hidden handle 9 is adjacent to the handle area T in the adjacent direction (see FIGS. 8 and 9). The handle area T is, for example, an area that extends from the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction. The handle area T is, for example, an area large enough for a user U to pass their hand through. When the handle area T is open, the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle. When the handle area T is closed, the hidden handle 9 cannot be used as a handle. The handle area T is, for example, a space that extends 30 mm to 50 mm in the adjacent direction from the side surface on which the hidden handle 9 is formed. When the other component is adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction, the other component is disposed in the handle area T, and the hidden handle 9 cannot be used as a handle. By moving the other component from a state in which the other component is adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction, the handle area T is opened, and the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle.

[0076] The hidden handle 9 can be in a first state P1 and a second state P2 (see Figures 8 and 9). In the first state P1, the hidden handle 9 cannot be used as a handle (see Figure 8). In the second state P2, the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle (see Figure 9). In the first state P1, the door 2 on which the hidden handle 9 is provided is adjacent to the other component in the adjacent direction. Specifically, in the first state P1, the handle area T adjacent to the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction is open. In the second state P2, the door 2 on which the hidden handle 9 is provided is not adjacent to the other component in the adjacent direction. Specifically, in the second state P2, the handle area T adjacent to the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction is open. The hidden handle 9 transitions from the first state P1 to the second state P2 by moving the other component.

[0077] The hidden handle 9 is a component that cannot be seen from the front side. The hidden handle 9 is provided on a side surface adjacent to the other component in the adjacency direction. The hidden handle 9 is not formed on the front surface. In the door 2 provided with the hidden handle 9, the front surface component of the door 2 extends to the side surface on which the hidden handle 9 is provided. Here, the side surface on which the hidden handle 9 is provided is the side surface that forms the end of the door 2 and is adjacent to the other component in the adjacency direction. The side surface on which the hidden handle 9 is provided is, for example, the surface that is closest to the other component in the adjacency direction among the surfaces adjacent to the other component. For example, in the freezer door 4b provided with the hidden handle 95, the decorative panel 42, which is the front surface component, extends to the upper end (side surface) 4bs on which the hidden handle 95 is provided (see FIG. 8). In the other component, the front surface component of the other component extends to the side surface adjacent to the hidden handle 9 in the adjacency direction. For example, in the refrigerator compartment door 3b, the decorative panel 32, which is the front surface member, extends to the lower end (side surface) 3bt adjacent to the hidden handle 95 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z (see FIG. 8).

[0078] As shown in Fig. 8, when viewed from the front side, the length S1 between the door 2 and the other components in the adjacent direction is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. When viewed from the front side, the length S1 between the door 2 and the other components in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z is shorter than, for example, the length of the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction Z. The leg cover 19 is a member provided on the front surface of the lower end of the refrigerator 100. The leg cover 19 is adjacent to the freezer compartment doors 4a, 4b. The leg cover 19 is aligned with the freezer compartment doors 4a, 4b in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 8, a gap S2 is formed between the door 2 and the other components in front of the hidden handle 9. The length of the gap S2 in the vertical direction Z is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. In this embodiment, the length S1 and the length of the gap S2 in the vertical direction Z are equal. Note that the length S1 and the length of the gap S2 in the vertical direction Z do not have to be equal. In this embodiment, the gap S2 is formed approximately parallel to the front-to-rear direction Y. Note that the shape of the gap S2 is not limited, and the gap S2 may narrow from the front side to the rear side.

[0080] The hidden handle 9 is, for example, a recess recessed from the side surface of the door 2. The hidden handle 9 does not protrude from the side surface, for example. The depth L of the hidden handle 9 is preferably at least 10 mm or more. The depth L of the hidden handle 9 is more preferably 15 mm or more. The depth L of the hidden handle 9 is even more preferably 20 mm or more. The depth H of the hidden handle 9 is preferably at least 15 mm or more. The depth H of the hidden handle 9 is more preferably 20 mm or more. The depth H of the hidden handle 9 is more preferably 25 mm or more.

[0081] Concealed handle 9 is provided on the side of door 2. Concealed handle 9 includes, for example, concealed handle 91, concealed handle 92, concealed handle 93, concealed handle 94, concealed handle 95, and concealed handle 96. Concealed handle 91 is provided on refrigerator compartment door 3a. Concealed handle 92 is provided on refrigerator compartment door 3b. Concealed handles 93 and 94 are provided on freezer compartment door 4a. Concealed handles 95 and 96 are provided on freezer compartment door 4b.

[0082] The hidden handle 91 is provided on the side of the refrigerator compartment door 3a that faces the freezer compartment door 4a in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 91 is provided at the bottom end 3at of the refrigerator compartment door 3a. The hidden handle 91 can be used as a handle by moving the freezer compartment door 4a. In other words, for the refrigerator compartment door 3a, the other member described above is the freezer compartment door 4a. When viewed from the front, the length S1 between the refrigerator compartment door 3a and the freezer compartment door 4a in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0083] The hidden handle 92 is provided on the side of the refrigerator compartment door 3b that faces the freezer compartment door 4b in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 92 is provided at the bottom end 3bt of the refrigerator compartment door 3b. The hidden handle 92 can be used as a handle by moving the freezer compartment door 4b. In other words, for the refrigerator compartment door 3b, the other member described above is the freezer compartment door 4b. When viewed from the front, the length S1 between the refrigerator compartment door 3b and the freezer compartment door 4b in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0084] The hidden handle 93 is provided on the side of the freezer compartment door 4a that faces the refrigerator compartment door 3a in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 93 is provided on the upper end 4as of the freezer compartment door 4a. The hidden handle 93 can be used as a handle by moving the refrigerator compartment door 3a. In other words, for the freezer compartment door 4a, the other member described above is the refrigerator compartment door 3a. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4a and the refrigerator compartment door 3a is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0085] The hidden handle 94 is provided on the side of the freezer compartment door 4a that faces the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 94 is provided at the lower end 4at of the freezer compartment door 4a. The hidden handle 94 can be used as a handle by moving the leg cover 19. In other words, for the freezer compartment door 4a, the other member described above is the leg cover 19. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4a and the leg cover 19 is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. At the position where the hidden handle 94 is provided, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4a and the leg cover 19 is, for example, shorter than the length of the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction Z.

[0086] The hidden handle 95 is provided on the side of the freezer compartment door 4b that faces the refrigerator compartment door 3b in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 95 is provided on the upper end 4bs of the freezer compartment door 4b. The hidden handle 95 can be used as a handle by moving the refrigerator compartment door 3b. In other words, for the freezer compartment door 4b, the other member described above is the refrigerator compartment door 3b. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4b and the refrigerator compartment door 3b is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0087] The hidden handle 96 is provided on the side of the freezer compartment door 4b that faces the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 96 is provided at the lower end 4bt of the freezer compartment door 4b. The hidden handle 96 can be used as a handle by moving the leg cover 19. In other words, for the freezer compartment door 4b, the other member mentioned above is the leg cover 19. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4b and the leg cover 19 is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. At the position where the hidden handle 96 is provided, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4b and the leg cover 19 is, for example, shorter than the length of the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction Z.

[0088] Next, the operation of the refrigerator 100 will be described. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of refrigerator 100, showing a user U using hidden handle 96 on freezer compartment door 4b with leg cover 19 removed. Fig. 11 is a perspective view of refrigerator 100, showing a user U using hidden handle 93 on freezer compartment door 4a with refrigerator compartment door 3a open.

[0089] When leg cover 19 is removed from the bottom end of housing 1, hidden handle 94 and hidden handle 96 become usable as handles. As shown in Figure 10, with leg cover 19 removed, user U can place his / her hand on hidden handle 96. When hidden handle 94 is usable as a handle, freezer compartment door 4a can be opened manually. When hidden handle 96 is usable as a handle, freezer compartment door 4b can be opened manually.

[0090] When the refrigerator compartment door 3a is open, the hidden handle 93 can be used as a handle. As shown in Figure 11, when the refrigerator compartment door 3a is open, a user U can place his / her hand on the hidden handle 93. When the hidden handle 93 can be used as a handle, the freezer compartment door 4a can be opened manually.

[0091] When refrigerator compartment door 3b is open, hidden handle 95 can be used as a handle. With refrigerator compartment door 3b open, user U can place his / her hand on hidden handle 95. When hidden handle 95 can be used as a handle, freezer compartment door 4b can be opened manually.

[0092] When the freezer compartment door 4a is open, the hidden handle 91 can be used as a handle. With the freezer compartment door 4a open, the user U can place his / her hand on the hidden handle 91. When the hidden handle 91 can be used as a handle, the refrigerator compartment door 3a can be opened manually without using the handle 37a.

[0093] When freezer compartment door 4b is open, hidden handle 92 can be used as a handle. With freezer compartment door 4b open, user U can place his / her hand on hidden handle 92. When hidden handle 92 can be used as a handle, refrigerator compartment door 3b can be opened manually without using handle 37b.

[0094] According to the refrigerator 100 of this embodiment, since it has the hidden handle 9 that can be used as a handle by moving other adjacent members, it is possible to provide the refrigerator 100 with a neat appearance.

[0095] According to the refrigerator 100 of this embodiment, since the refrigerator 100 has the hidden handle 9, it is possible to provide a refrigerator 100 that has a neat appearance while allowing the door 2 to be opened manually.

[0096] According to the refrigerator 100 of this embodiment, since the refrigerator 100 has the door-opening device 7 operable to open the door 2, the door 2 can be opened automatically.

[0097] According to the refrigerator 100 of this embodiment, since it has the door-opening device 7 and the hidden handle 9, the door 2 can be opened automatically when the door-opening device 7 is operating normally. On the other hand, when the door-opening device 7 is not operating normally due to a malfunction, a power outage, or the like, the door 2 can be opened manually using the hidden handle 9. The refrigerator 100 has the above-mentioned effects while having a neat appearance.

[0098] According to the refrigerator 100 of this embodiment, the length S1 in the adjacent direction between the door 2 and other components at the front is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less, so that the hidden handle 9 is hidden when viewed from the front, and it is possible to provide a refrigerator 100 with a neat appearance.

[0099] According to the refrigerator 100 of this embodiment, the gap S2 formed between the door 2 and other components in front of the hidden handle 9 is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less, so that the hidden handle 9 is hidden when viewed from the front, and it is possible to provide a refrigerator 100 with a neat appearance.

[0100] (Variation) [Hidden handle 9F] Next, a modified example will be described. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a hidden handle 9F, which is a modified example of the hidden handle 9.

[0101] The hidden handle 9F is a non-slip surface formed on the side of the door 2. The hidden handle 9F is, for example, formed by forming small irregularities on the surface of the door 2. The hidden handle 9F is, for example, formed by including rubber. Because the hidden handle 9F is non-slip, the user U can manually open the door 2 without gripping the hidden handle 9F. Therefore, even a person with a weak grip strength can easily manually open the door 2.

[0102] (Second embodiment) [Refrigerator 100B] A refrigerator 100B according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13. The refrigerator 100B according to the second embodiment differs from the refrigerator 100 according to the first embodiment in the arrangement of the hidden handle 9. In the following description, the same components as those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0103] FIG. 13 is a front view showing the refrigerator 100B. The refrigerator 100B includes a housing 1, a door 2, a refrigeration cycle device 5, a control unit 6, a door-opening device 7, and a door-opening operation unit 8.

[0104] As in the first embodiment, the hidden handle 9 is a component located in a position that can be used as a handle by moving another component adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction. When the other component is located adjacent to the door 2 in the adjacent direction, the hidden handle 9 is located in a position that cannot normally be used as a handle. Specifically, when the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, the space extending from the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction is open. More specifically, the hidden handle 9 is adjacent to the handle area T in the adjacent direction, for example. When the handle area T is open, the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, and when the handle area T is not open, the hidden handle 9 cannot be used as a handle. As in the first embodiment, the hidden handle 9 can be in a first state P1 or a second state P2.

[0105] The hidden handle 9 is provided on the side of the door 2 and is therefore not visible from the front. In the door 2 provided with the hidden handle 9, the front member of the door 2 extends to the side where the hidden handle 9 is provided. In the other members, the front member of the other members extends to the side adjacent to the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction. The hidden handle 9 includes, for example, hidden handle 91, hidden handle 92, hidden handle 93, hidden handle 94, hidden handle 95, hidden handle 96, hidden handle 9a, hidden handle 9b, hidden handle 9c, and hidden handle 9d. The hidden handle 9a is provided on the refrigerator compartment door 3a. The hidden handle 9b is provided on the refrigerator compartment door 3b. The hidden handle 9c is provided on the freezer compartment door 4a. The hidden handle 9d is provided on the freezer compartment door 4a.

[0106] The hidden handle 9a is provided on the side of the refrigerator compartment door 3a that faces the refrigerator compartment door 3b in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. The hidden handle 9a is provided on the right end 3aq of the refrigerator compartment door 3a. The hidden handle 9a can be used as a handle by moving the refrigerator compartment door 3b. In other words, for the refrigerator compartment door 3a, the other member described above is the refrigerator compartment door 3b. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X between the refrigerator compartment doors 3a and 3b is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0107] The hidden handle 9b is provided on the side of the refrigerator compartment door 3b that faces the refrigerator compartment door 3a in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. The hidden handle 9b is provided on the left end 3ap of the refrigerator compartment door 3b. The hidden handle 9b can be used as a handle by moving the refrigerator compartment door 3a. In other words, for the refrigerator compartment door 3b, the other member described above is the refrigerator compartment door 3a. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X between the refrigerator compartment door 3b and the refrigerator compartment door 3a is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0108] The hidden handle 9c is provided on the side of the freezer compartment door 4a that faces the freezer compartment door 4b in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. The hidden handle 9c is provided on the right end 4aq of the freezer compartment door 4a. The hidden handle 9c can be used as a handle by moving the freezer compartment door 4b. In other words, for the freezer compartment door 4a, the other member described above is the freezer compartment door 4b. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X between the freezer compartment doors 4a and 4b is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0109] The hidden handle 9d is provided on the side of the freezer compartment door 4b that faces the freezer compartment door 4a in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. The hidden handle 9d is provided on the left end 4bp of the freezer compartment door 4b. The hidden handle 9d can be used as a handle by moving the freezer compartment door 4a. In other words, for the freezer compartment door 4b, the other member described above is the freezer compartment door 4a. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X between the freezer compartment door 4b and the freezer compartment door 4a is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0110] (Third embodiment) [Refrigerator 100C] A refrigerator 100C according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 14. The refrigerator 100C according to the third embodiment differs from the refrigerator 100 according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the door 2C and the arrangement of the hidden handle 9. In the following description, components that are common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0111] FIG. 14 is a front view showing the refrigerator 100C. The refrigerator 100C includes a housing 1, a door 2C, a refrigeration cycle device 5, a control unit 6, a door-opening device 7, and a door-opening operation unit 8.

[0112] The doors 2C include, for example, a refrigerator compartment door 3C that closes the openings 17 of the refrigerator compartment 16a and the vegetable compartment 16b. The doors 2C include, for example, a freezer compartment door 4C that closes the opening 17 of the freezer compartment 16c. The refrigerator compartment door 3C and the freezer compartment door 4C are, for example, single-wing doors. The refrigerator compartment door 3C and the freezer compartment door 4C are rotatably supported on the housing 1 by hinges. The refrigerator compartment door 3C and the freezer compartment door 4C are lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. Focusing on the refrigerator compartment door 3C, the freezer compartment door 4C is another component adjacent to it on the front surface and is an adjacent door lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. Focusing on the freezer compartment door 4C, the refrigerator compartment door 3C is another component adjacent to it on the front surface and is an adjacent door lined up in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z.

[0113] The refrigerator compartment door 3C has a door body 31 and a decorative panel 32. The freezer compartment door 4C has a door body 41 and a decorative panel 42. The refrigerator compartment door 3C is provided with a handle 37C. A user U can move the refrigerator compartment door 3C by placing their hand on the handle 37C. The handle 37C is provided on the upper end 3Cs of the refrigerator compartment door 3C.

[0114] As in the first embodiment, the hidden handle 9 is a component located in a position that can be used as a handle by moving another component adjacent to the door 2C in the adjacent direction. When the other component is located adjacent to the door 2C in the adjacent direction, the hidden handle 9 is located in a position that cannot normally be used as a handle. Specifically, when the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, the space extending from the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction is open. More specifically, the hidden handle 9 is adjacent to the handle area T in the adjacent direction, for example. When the handle area T is open, the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, and when the handle area T is not open, the hidden handle 9 cannot be used as a handle. As in the first embodiment, the hidden handle 9 can be in a first state P1 or a second state P2.

[0115] The hidden handle 9 is provided on the side of the door 2 and is therefore not visible from the front. In the door 2 provided with the hidden handle 9, the front member of the door 2 extends to the side surface on which the hidden handle 9 is provided. In the other members, the front member of the other members extends to the side surface adjacent to the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction. The hidden handle 9 consists of, for example, hidden handle 9e, hidden handle 9f, and hidden handle 9g. Hidden handle 9e is provided on the refrigerator compartment door 3C. Hidden handle 9f and hidden handle 9g are provided on the freezer compartment door 4C.

[0116] The hidden handle 9e is provided on the side of the refrigerator compartment door 3C that faces the freezer compartment door 4C in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9e is provided at the bottom end 3Ct of the refrigerator compartment door 3C. The hidden handle 9e can be used as a handle by moving the freezer compartment door 4C. In other words, for the refrigerator compartment door 3C, the other member described above is the freezer compartment door 4C. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the refrigerator compartment door 3C and the freezer compartment door 4C is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0117] The hidden handle 9f is provided on the side of the freezer compartment door 4C that faces the refrigerator compartment door 3C in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9f is provided on the upper end 4Cs of the freezer compartment door 4C. The hidden handle 9f can be used as a handle by moving the refrigerator compartment door 3C. In other words, for the freezer compartment door 4C, the other member described above is the refrigerator compartment door 3C. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4C and the refrigerator compartment door 3C is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0118] The hidden handle 9g is provided on the side of the freezer compartment door 4C that faces the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9g is provided on the bottom end 4Ct of the freezer compartment door 4C. The hidden handle 9g can be used as a handle by moving the leg cover 19. In other words, for the freezer compartment door 4C, the other member described above is the leg cover 19. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4C and the leg cover 19 is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the freezer compartment door 4C and the leg cover 19 is, for example, shorter than the length of the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction Z.

[0119] (Fourth embodiment) [Refrigerator 100D] A refrigerator 100D according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. The refrigerator 100D according to the fourth embodiment differs from the refrigerator 100 according to the first embodiment in the configuration of the door 2D and the arrangement of the hidden handle 9. In the following description, components that are common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0120] FIG. 15 is a front view showing the refrigerator 100D. The refrigerator 100D includes a housing 1, a door 2D, a refrigeration cycle device 5, a control unit 6, a door-opening device 7, and a door-opening operation unit 8.

[0121] The door 2D is, for example, made up of left and right doors 2Da and 2Db that close the opening of the housing 1. The doors 2Da and 2Db are, for example, double-door doors. The doors 2Da and 2Db are rotatably supported on the housing 1 by hinges. The doors 2Da and 2Db are lined up in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. Focusing on the door 2Da, the door 2Db is another component adjacent to it on the front side, and is the adjacent door lined up in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X. Focusing on the door 2Db, the door 2Da is another component adjacent to it on the front side, and is the adjacent door lined up in the left-right direction (adjacent direction) X.

[0122] The doors 2Da and 2Db have a door body 41 and a decorative panel 42. The doors 2Da and 2Db are provided with a handle 37D. A user U can move the doors 2Da and 2Db by placing their hands on the handle 37D. The handle 37D is provided on the upper end 2Ds of the doors 2Da and 2Db.

[0123] As in the first embodiment, the hidden handle 9 is a component located in a position that can be used as a handle by moving another component adjacent to the door 2D in the adjacent direction. When the other component is located adjacent to the door 2D in the adjacent direction, the hidden handle 9 is located in a position that cannot normally be used as a handle. Specifically, when the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, the space extending from the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction is open. More specifically, the hidden handle 9 is adjacent to the handle area T in the adjacent direction, for example. When the handle area T is open, the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, and when the handle area T is not open, the hidden handle 9 cannot be used as a handle. As in the first embodiment, the hidden handle 9 can be in a first state P1 or a second state P2.

[0124] The hidden handle 9 is provided on the side of the doors 2Da and 2Db and therefore cannot be seen from the front. In the doors 2Da and 2Db on which the hidden handle 9 is provided, the front surface member of the doors 2Da and 2Db extends to the side surface on which the hidden handle 9 is provided. In the other components, the front surface member of the other components extends to the side surface adjacent to the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction. The hidden handle 9 is made up of, for example, a hidden handle 9h and a hidden handle 9i. The hidden handle 9h is provided on the door 2Da. The hidden handle 9i is provided on the door 2Db.

[0125] The hidden handle 9h is provided on the side of the door 2Da that faces the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9h is provided at the bottom end 2Dt of the door 2Da. The hidden handle 9h can be used as a handle by moving the leg cover 19. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the door 2Da and the leg cover 19 is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the door 2Da and the leg cover 19 is, for example, shorter than the length of the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction Z.

[0126] The hidden handle 9i is provided on the side of the door 2Db that faces the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9i is provided at the bottom end 2Dt of the door 2Db. The hidden handle 9i can be used as a handle by moving the leg cover 19. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the door 2Db and the leg cover 19 is, for example, 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. When viewed from the front, the length S1 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z between the door 2Db and the leg cover 19 is, for example, shorter than the length of the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction Z.

[0127] (Fifth embodiment) [Refrigerator 100E] A refrigerator 100E according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16. The refrigerator 100E according to the fifth embodiment differs from the refrigerator 100 according to the first embodiment in the configuration of a storage compartment 16E, the configuration of a door 2E, and the arrangement of a hidden handle 9. In the following description, components that are common to those already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0128] FIG. 16 is a front view showing the refrigerator 100E. The refrigerator 100E includes a housing 1, a door 2E, a refrigeration cycle device 5, a control unit 6, a door-opening device 7, and a door-opening operation unit 8.

[0129] A plurality of storage compartments 16E are formed inside the housing 1. The storage compartments 16E include, for example, a refrigerator compartment 16Ea, a main freezer compartment 16Eb, a left small freezer compartment 16Ec, a right small freezer compartment 16Ed, and a vegetable compartment 16Ee. In this embodiment, the refrigerator compartment 16Ea is located on the top shelf, the main freezer compartment 16Eb is located below the refrigerator compartment 16Ea, the left small freezer compartment 16Ec and the right small freezer compartment 16Ed are located below the main freezer compartment 16Eb, and the vegetable compartment 16Ee is located below the left small freezer compartment 16Ec and the right small freezer compartment 16Ed.

[0130] The multiple storage compartments 16E are divided into multiple temperature zones, including a refrigeration temperature zone and a freezing temperature zone, which is a temperature zone lower than the refrigeration temperature zone. The temperature of the refrigerator compartment 16Ea is in the refrigeration temperature zone. The temperature of the vegetable compartment 16Ee is in the refrigeration temperature zone. The temperature of the vegetable compartment 16Ee is maintained at a higher temperature than the temperature of the refrigerator compartment 16Ea. The temperatures of the main freezer compartment 16Eb, the left small freezer compartment 16Ec, and the right small freezer compartment 16Ed are in the freezing temperature zone.

[0131] The door 2E includes, for example, refrigerator compartment doors 3Ea and 3Eb that close the opening of the refrigerator compartment 16Ea. The door 2E includes, for example, a main freezer compartment door 4Eb that closes the opening of the main freezer compartment 16Eb. The door 2E includes, for example, a left small freezer compartment door 4Ec that closes the opening of the left small freezer compartment 16Ec. The door 2E includes, for example, a right small freezer compartment door 4Ed that closes the opening of the right small freezer compartment 16Ed. The door 2E includes, for example, a vegetable compartment door 3Ee that closes the opening of the vegetable compartment 16Ee. The refrigerator compartment doors 3Ea and 3Eb are, for example, double-door doors. The main freezer compartment door 4Eb, the left small freezer compartment door 4Ec, the right small freezer compartment 16Ed, and the vegetable compartment door 3Ee are, for example, drawer-type doors. The refrigerator compartment doors 3Ea and 3Eb are provided with handles 37E. A user U can move the refrigerator compartment doors 3Ea and 3Eb by placing his / her hands on the handles 37E. The handles 37E are provided at the upper ends of the refrigerator compartment doors 3Ea and 3Eb.

[0132] As in the first embodiment, the hidden handle 9 is a component located in a position that can be used as a handle by moving another component adjacent to the door 2E in the adjacent direction. When the other component is located adjacent to the door 2E in the adjacent direction, the hidden handle 9 is located in a position that cannot normally be used as a handle. Specifically, when the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, the space extending from the hidden handle 9 in the adjacent direction is open. More specifically, the hidden handle 9 is adjacent to the handle area T in the adjacent direction, for example. When the handle area T is open, the hidden handle 9 can be used as a handle, and when the handle area T is not open, the hidden handle 9 cannot be used as a handle. As in the first embodiment, the hidden handle 9 can be in a first state P1 or a second state P2.

[0133] The hidden handle 9 is provided on the side of the door 2 and is therefore not visible from the front. In the door 2 on which the hidden handle 9 is provided, the front member of the door 2 extends to the side on which the hidden handle 9 is provided. In the other members, the front member of the other members extends to the side adjacent to the hidden handle 9 in the adjoining direction. The hidden handle 9 includes, for example, hidden handle 9j, hidden handle 9k, hidden handle 9l, hidden handle 9m, hidden handle 9n, hidden handle 9o, hidden handle 9p, hidden handle 9q, hidden handle 9r, hidden handle 9s, hidden handle 9t, hidden handle 9u, and hidden handle 9v.

[0134] The hidden handle 9j is provided on the side of the refrigerator compartment door 3Ea that faces the main freezer compartment door 4Eb in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9j is provided at the bottom end of the refrigerator compartment door 3Ea. The hidden handle 9j can be used as a handle by moving the main freezer compartment door 4Eb. In other words, for the refrigerator compartment door 3Ea, the other member described above is the main freezer compartment door 4Eb.

[0135] The hidden handle 9k is provided on the side of the refrigerator compartment door 3Eb that faces the main freezer compartment door 4Eb in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9k is provided at the bottom end of the refrigerator compartment door 3Eb. The hidden handle 9k can be used as a handle by moving the main freezer compartment door 4Eb. In other words, for the refrigerator compartment door 3Eb, the other member described above is the main freezer compartment door 4Eb.

[0136] The hidden handle 9l is provided on the side of the main freezer door 4Eb that faces the refrigerator door 3Ea in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9l is provided at the upper end of the main freezer door 4Eb. The hidden handle 9l can be used as a handle by moving the refrigerator door 3Ea. In other words, for the main freezer door 4Eb, the other member described above is the refrigerator door 3Ea.

[0137] The hidden handle 9m is provided on the side of the main freezer door 4Eb that faces the refrigerator door 3Eb in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9m is provided at the upper end of the main freezer door 4Eb. The hidden handle 9l can be used as a handle by moving the refrigerator door 3Eb. In other words, for the main freezer door 4Eb, the other member described above is the refrigerator door 3Eb.

[0138] The hidden handle 9n is provided on the side of the main freezer door 4Eb that faces the left small freezer door 4Ec in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9n is provided at the bottom end of the main freezer door 4Eb. The hidden handle 9n can be used as a handle by moving the left small freezer door 4Ec. In other words, for the main freezer door 4Eb, the other member mentioned above is the left small freezer door 4Ec.

[0139] The hidden handle 9o is provided on the side of the main freezer door 4Eb that faces the right small freezer door 4Ed in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9o is provided at the bottom end of the main freezer door 4Eb. The hidden handle 9o can be used as a handle by moving the right small freezer door 4Ed. In other words, for the main freezer door 4Eb, the other member mentioned above is the right small freezer door 4Ed.

[0140] The hidden handle 9p is provided on the side of the left small freezer door 4Ec that faces the main freezer door 4Eb in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9p is provided at the upper end of the left small freezer door 4Ec. The hidden handle 9p can be used as a handle by moving the main freezer door 4Eb. In other words, for the left small freezer door 4Ec, the other member mentioned above is the main freezer door 4Eb.

[0141] The hidden handle 9q is provided on the side of the left small freezer door 4Ec that faces the vegetable compartment door 3Ec in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9q is provided at the bottom end of the left small freezer door 4Ec. The hidden handle 9q can be used as a handle by moving the vegetable compartment door 3Ec. In other words, for the left small freezer door 4Ec, the other component mentioned above is the vegetable compartment door 3Ec.

[0142] The hidden handle 9r is provided on the side of the right small freezer door 4Ed that faces the main freezer door 4Eb in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9r is provided at the upper end of the right small freezer door 4Ed. The hidden handle 9r can be used as a handle by moving the main freezer door 4Eb. In other words, for the right small freezer door 4Ed, the other member mentioned above is the main freezer door 4Eb.

[0143] The hidden handle 9s is provided on the side of the right small freezer door 4Ed that faces the vegetable compartment door 3Ec in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9s is provided at the bottom end of the right small freezer door 4Ed. The hidden handle 9s can be used as a handle by moving the vegetable compartment door 3Ec. In other words, for the right small freezer door 4Ed, the other member mentioned above is the vegetable compartment door 3Ec.

[0144] The hidden handle 9t is provided on the side of the vegetable compartment door 3Ec that faces the left small freezer compartment door 4Ec in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9t is provided at the upper end of the vegetable compartment door 3Ec. The hidden handle 9t can be used as a handle by moving the left small freezer compartment door 4Ec. In other words, for the vegetable compartment door 3Ec, the other member mentioned above is the left small freezer compartment door 4Ec.

[0145] The hidden handle 9u is provided on the side of the vegetable compartment door 3Ec that faces the right small freezer compartment door 4Ed in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9u is provided on the upper end of the vegetable compartment door 3Ec. The hidden handle 9u can be used as a handle by moving the right small freezer compartment door 4Ed. In other words, for the vegetable compartment door 3Ec, the other member mentioned above is the right small freezer compartment door 4Ed.

[0146] The hidden handle 9v is provided on the side of the vegetable compartment door 3Ec that faces the leg cover 19 in the vertical direction (adjacent direction) Z. The hidden handle 9v is provided at the bottom end of the vegetable compartment door 3Ec. The hidden handle 9v can be used as a handle by moving the leg cover 19. In other words, for the vegetable compartment door 3Ec, the other member described above is the leg cover 19.

[0147] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0148] 100, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E...refrigerator, 1...casing, 2...door, 3a, 3b...refrigerator compartment door, 4a, 4b...freezer compartment door, 5...refrigeration cycle device, 6...control unit, 7...door opening device, 8, 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d...door opening operation unit, 9...hidden handle (handle), 11...inner box, 11a...upper inner wall, 11b...lower inner wall, 11c...left inner wall, 11 d...right inner wall, 11e...rear inner wall, 12...outer box, 12a...upper outer wall, 12b...lower outer wall, 12c...left outer wall, 12d...right outer wall, 12e...rear outer wall, 13...insulating section, 14...first partition section, 15...second partition section, 16...storage compartment, 16a...refrigerator compartment, 16b...vegetable compartment, 16c...freezer compartment, 17...opening, 18...hinge, 19...leg cover, 31...door body, 32... Decorative panel, 34...frame portion, 35...rear surface material, 36...gasket, 41...door body, 42...decorative panel, 44...frame portion, 45...rear surface material, 46...gasket, 51...machine room, 52a, 52b...cooling unit, 53a, 53b...flow path forming member, 54a, 54b...cooling fan, 61...board accommodating section, 62...board accommodating section cover material, 63...first control board, 64...second control board, 65, 66...wiring bundle, 67...power cord, 68...power supply line, 71...left door opening device, 72...right door opening device, 73...cover member, 74, 75...plunger, 81...contact part, 82...detection part, PS...commercial power supply, T...handle area, P1...first state, P2...second state, U...user, X...left-right direction, Y...front-back direction, Z...up-down direction

Claims

1. a housing containing a storage chamber; a door having a handle and adjacent to another member in an adjacent direction intersecting with the front-rear direction; The handle is arranged at a position where it can be used by moving the other member. refrigerator.

2. a door opening device operable to open the door provided with the handle; The refrigerator according to claim 1.

3. The handle is provided on a side surface facing the other member in the adjacent direction, When viewed from the front side, the length in the adjacent direction between the door and the other member is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The handle is provided on a side surface facing the other member in the adjacent direction, The gap formed between the door and the other member on the front side of the handle is 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The other member is an adjacent door that is aligned in the left-right direction with the door, The handle is provided on a side surface facing the adjacent door in the left-right direction. The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The other member is an adjacent door that is aligned vertically with the door, The handle is provided on a side surface facing the adjacent door in the vertical direction. The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The other member is a leg cover provided at a lower end of the refrigerator. The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The handle is provided on a side surface that faces the leg cover in the up-down direction, On the front surface, the vertical length between the door and the leg cover is shorter than the vertical length of the leg cover. The refrigerator according to claim 7.

9. The handle is a recess recessed from the side of the door. The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The handle is a non-slip surface formed on the side of the door. The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2.

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