Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to the present embodiment comprises: a cabinet provided with a storage chamber; a first door which opens / closes the storage chamber and has an opening; a second door which opens / closes the opening and is rotatable with respect to the first door; a locking device which allows the first door and the second door to be in a locked state or a released state while the second door is closed; a door opening device for automatically opening the second door; and a controller controlling the door opening device.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] This specification relates to a refrigerator.

[0002] A refrigerator is a home appliance that keeps food at a low temperature in an internal storage compartment enclosed by a door.

[0003] The above storage room is surrounded by an insulating wall so that the inside of the storage room is maintained at a temperature lower than the outside temperature. Depending on the temperature range of the storage room, the storage room may be referred to as a refrigerator or a freezer.

[0004] To place or remove objects from a storage compartment, the user opens the door. Typically, the door is rotatably installed on the cabinet, and a gasket is provided between the door and the cabinet. Therefore, when the door is closed, the gasket seals tightly between the door and the cabinet, preventing cold air from leaking from the storage compartment. The greater the sealing strength of this gasket, the greater the effect of preventing cold air leakage.

[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, as the sealing force of the gasket increases, a correspondingly greater 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 includes a cabinet having at least one storage compartment inside, a door arranged on one side of the cabinet to open and close the storage compartment, and a door opening device that moves the door to open the storage compartment by the driving force of a motor.

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

[0010] The above 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 literature, 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, 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.

[0013] One embodiment provides a refrigerator comprising a first door and a second door, wherein the second door is positioned outside the door and is capable of automatically opening.

[0014] Optionally 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.

[0015] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the second door is independently and automatically opened from the doors disposed on each of the left and right sides.

[0016] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of manual opening of the second door while power supply to the refrigerator is cut off.

[0017] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet having a storage compartment.

[0018] The refrigerator may further include a first door having an opening that opens and closes the storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a second door that opens and closes the opening and is rotatable relative to the first door. The refrigerator may further include a locking device that locks or unlocks the first door and the second door when the second door is closed.

[0019] The refrigerator may further include a door opening device for automatically opening the second door. The refrigerator may further include a control unit for controlling the door opening device.

[0020] The locking device may include a locking portion provided in the first door. The locking portion may be inserted into the second door.

[0021] The second door may include a latch portion that engages with the lock portion when the lock portion is positioned in a locked position. The second door may further include an operating portion for moving the latch portion to an unlocking position where the latch portion is released from engagement with the lock portion.

[0022] The second door may include a handle. The operating unit may be exposed through the handle.

[0023] When the handle is pulled in the locked state of the first door and the second door, the first door can be opened. When the handle is pulled after operating the operating unit in the locked state of the first door and the second door, the second door can be opened. When the handle is pulled in the unlocked state of the first door and the second door, the second door can be opened.

[0024] The second door may include a groove into which the locking portion is inserted in the locking position of the locking portion. The latch portion may form a portion of the groove, or a portion of the latch portion may cover the groove when the latch portion is engaged with the locking portion.

[0025] When the locking part is positioned in the locking position, when the operating part is operated in one direction, the latch part can be rotated in the first direction and moved to the unlocking position.

[0026] The above locking member may include a recessed member.

[0027] The above latch portion may include a catch portion for engaging the lock portion. A protrusion may be formed in the catch portion to be inserted into the recessed portion.

[0028] When the latch portion moves to the release position, the protrusion is removed from the recessed portion, and the latch portion can be separated from the locking portion.

[0029] In the above-mentioned catch portion, an inclined surface may be formed on the opposite side of the protrusion. In the above-mentioned locking portion, an inclined surface may be formed on the opposite side of the recessed portion.

[0030] The latch portion may include a first portion in which a catch portion for engaging with the lock portion is formed, and a second portion extending from the first portion and rotatably supported on the second door.

[0031] The second door may include a receiving portion for receiving a portion of the first portion. A slot may be formed in the receiving portion for the second portion to pass through.

[0032] The first part includes a first inclined surface accommodated in the receiving portion, and at least a portion of the first inclined surface can be spaced apart from the sunken surface of the receiving portion while the catch portion is engaged with the locking portion.

[0033] When the latch portion moves to the unlocked position, the first inclined surface can come closer to the sunken surface.

[0034] The first portion may further include a second inclined surface positioned on the outside of the receiving portion. The distance between the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface may decrease as it goes downward.

[0035] The above locking device may further include a first driving unit.

[0036] The locking member may be operated by receiving power from the first driving member. The first door may be provided with a hole through which the locking member passes. The locking member may be inserted into a groove of the second door by penetrating the hole.

[0037] The second door may include an extension portion positioned in the opening when the second door is closed. The extension portion may be provided with a groove for inserting the lock portion and the latch portion.

[0038] In a state where the latch portion is engaged with the lock portion, the lock portion can be positioned between a portion of the latch portion and the front surface of the second door.

[0039] The above refrigerator may further include an input detection unit that detects an input of an opening command for the second door.

[0040] When the input detection unit detects an input of an opening command for the second door, the locking device can be controlled so that the first door and the second door are in an unlocked state. The control unit can operate the door opening device to open the second door when the first door and the second door are in an unlocked state.

[0041] The refrigerator may further include a door open / close detection unit that detects the closing of the second door. When the closing of the second door is detected by the door open / close detection unit, the locking device may be controlled so that the first door and the second door are locked.

[0042] The door opening device may include a second driving unit and a door opening unit that operates by receiving power from the second driving unit and pushes the first door or the second door during the opening process of the second door.

[0043] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that the second door, which is located on the outside of a door composed of a first door and a second door, can be automatically opened.

[0044] In one embodiment, when the input detection unit is activated when the proximity of a user is detected, there is an advantage in that unnecessary activation of the input detection unit is detected.

[0045] According to one embodiment, when the second door is closed, the second door and the first door are locked, so there is an advantage in that the first door can be opened.

[0046] In one embodiment, the handle for opening the first door is the same as the handle for opening the second door, so there is an advantage that two separate handles are unnecessary.

[0047] According to one embodiment, even when the power supplied to the refrigerator is cut off, such as during a power outage, there is an advantage in that the second door can be manually opened by operating the operating unit.

[0048] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that manual opening of the second door is possible by operating the operating unit even if the locking device is broken or malfunctions.

[0049] Figure 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a second door opened in a refrigerator door according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an open state of a refrigerator door and a freezer door according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a state in which a second door is opened while a first door is closed according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of Figure 1.

[0054] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 1.

[0055] FIG. 7 is a drawing partially showing a second door in an open state according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 8 is a drawing showing a door opening device provided in the second door.

[0057] Fig. 9 is a plan view showing the door opening protruding from the second door.

[0058] Figure 10 is a drawing showing the location of the door opening device in the second door.

[0059] Figure 11 is a drawing showing a door opening device and an auto closing unit in the second door.

[0060] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the locking part of the present embodiment.

[0061] Figure 13 is a drawing of the second door viewed from below with the first and second doors closed.

[0062] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a latch portion provided in the extension of the second door.

[0063] Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the latch portion removed from the extension of the second door.

[0064] Figure 16 is a drawing showing the state in which the latch and operating part are installed in the second door.

[0065] Figure 17 is a drawing showing the state in which the operating unit is installed in the second door.

[0066] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of an operating unit according to the present embodiment.

[0067] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a latch portion according to the present embodiment.

[0068] Figure 20 is a drawing showing the state of the latch part, lock part, and operating part when the latch part is positioned in the initial position.

[0069] Figure 21 is a drawing showing a state in which the operating part is operated and the latch part moves to the unlocked position.

[0070] Figure 22 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 23 is a drawing showing a state in which the input detection unit is activated when a user approaches the refrigerator within a standard distance.

[0072] Figure 24 is a drawing showing a user inputting a door opening command into an input detection unit.

[0073] Figure 25 is a drawing showing the first door and the second door in an unlocked state by a locking device.

[0074] Fig. 26 is a drawing showing a state in which the second door is opened by the door opening device to the door opening angle.

[0075] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related known structures or functions will be omitted if they are deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0076] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used to describe components of embodiments of the present invention. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but another component may also be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" between each component.

[0077] In this specification, the front of the second door is a surface forming the front exterior of the refrigerator door, and the rear of the second door is a surface facing the first door.

[0078] The front of the first door is a surface that forms the front exterior of the first door and faces the rear of the second door. The rear of the first door is a surface that faces the cabinet or storage room.

[0079] FIG. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a second door of a refrigerator door according to an embodiment of the present invention with the door open. FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a refrigerator door and a freezer door according to an embodiment of the present invention with the door open.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a refrigerator (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet (10) forming a storage compartment. The refrigerator (1) may further include a door for opening and closing the storage compartment.

[0081] The storage compartment may include, for example, a refrigerator compartment (11) and a freezer compartment (15). Although not limited, the refrigerator compartment (11) may be located above the freezer compartment (15). Depending on the type of refrigerator, the freezer compartment (15) and the refrigerator compartment (11) may be arranged left and right, and the freezer compartment (15) may be located above the refrigerator compartment (11).

[0082] The above door may include a refrigerator door (20) for opening and closing the refrigerator compartment (11) and a freezer door (25) for opening and closing the freezer compartment (15).

[0083] The refrigerator door (20) may include, for example, a pair of doors (21, 22) arranged left and right. That is, the refrigerator door (20) may include a first refrigerator door (21) and a second refrigerator door (22) arranged left and right. The first refrigerator door (21) may open and close a portion of the refrigerator compartment (11), and the second refrigerator door (22) may open and close another portion of the refrigerator compartment (11).

[0084] The above freezer door (25) may include, for example, a pair of doors (26, 27) arranged left and right. That is, the freezer door (25) may include a first freezer door (26) and a second freezer door (27) arranged left and right. The first freezer door (26) may open and close a part of the freezer (15), and the second freezer door (27) may open and close another part of the freezer (15). Alternatively, the freezer (15) may be partitioned left and right or up and down, and the first freezer door (26) may open and close one partitioned space, and the second freezer door (27) may open and close another partitioned space.

[0085] It is to be noted that in the present invention, there is no limitation on the number or arrangement of the refrigerator door (20) and the freezer door (25).

[0086] At least one of the first and second refrigerator doors (26, 27) may include a first door (30) that opens and closes the refrigerator (11), and a second door (40) that can rotate with respect to the first door (30).

[0087] In FIG. 3, as an example, it is illustrated that each of the first and second refrigerator doors (26, 27) includes the first door (30) and the second door (40).

[0088] The first door (30) can be rotatably connected to the cabinet (10) by a first hinge (51). The second door (40) can be rotatably connected to the first door (30) by a second hinge (53).

[0089] The first door (30) may include a first opening (32). The second door (40) may cover the first opening (32) at the front of the first door (30). Alternatively, the second door (40) may be accommodated in the first opening (32) and cover the first opening (32).

[0090] The above first door (30) may be referred to as an inner door or main door. The above second door (40) may be referred to as an outer door or sub-door.

[0091] The first door (30) may include one or more baskets (33, 34). The baskets (33, 34) may be mounted on the rear side of the first door (30) (the side facing the refrigerator compartment when the door is closed) or on the side forming the first opening (32).

[0092] At least one of the first and second refrigerator doors (26, 27) may be provided with a display (50). For example, FIG. 2 discloses that the display (50) is provided on the first refrigerator door (21). The display (50) may be mounted on the first door (30). The display (50) may be positioned in the first opening (32) of the first door (30).

[0093] When a plurality of baskets (33, 34) are provided in the first door (30), the display (50) can be positioned higher than the lowest basket and lower than the uppermost basket.

[0094] For example, the display (50) may be spaced apart from the lower and upper surfaces forming the first opening (32) in the first door (30). The display (50) may be operated when an operating condition is satisfied while the second door (40) is closed. Alternatively, the display (50) may be operated when the opening of the second door (40) is detected.

[0095] The above display (50) can overlap with one basket (34) among a plurality of baskets in the front-back direction. For example, one basket (34) can be mounted on the first door (30) at the rear side of the display (50).

[0096] At least one of the first and second freezer doors (26, 27) may include a basket (28). As an example, FIG. 2 illustrates that each of the first and second freezer doors (26, 27) is provided with a basket (28).

[0097] Meanwhile, the refrigerator (11) may be equipped with one or more shelves (12). The refrigerator (11) may be equipped with one or more sliding drawers (13).

[0098] The above freezer (15) may be equipped with one or more sliding drawers (16). The drawers (13, 16) may be omitted.

[0099] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing a state in which a second door is opened while a first door is closed according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along 5-5 of FIG. 1.

[0100] The configuration of the locking device, input detection unit, proximity sensor, door open / close detection unit, and door opening device described below may be applied to either the first refrigerator door (21) or the second refrigerator door (22), or may be applied equally to each.

[0101] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the first door (30) can be opened manually or automatically. 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 on the first door (30) or the cabinet (10). It should be noted that the position or structure of the main opening device for opening the first door (30) may apply 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.

[0102] The second door (40) can be opened while the first door (30) is closed.

[0103] The first door (30) can be opened while 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 relative to the first door (30).

[0104] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the refrigerator door (20) may further include a locking device (60) that allows the first door (30) and the second door (40) to be locked or unlocked.

[0105] The above locking device (60) can automatically operate to lock or unlock the first door (30) and the second door (40).

[0106] For example, when the opening of the second door (40) is required, the locking device (60) may be operated to unlock the second door (40) and the first door (30). When the closing of the second door (40) is detected after opening, the locking device (60) may be operated to lock the second door (40) and the first door (30).

[0107] The above locking device (60) may include a first driving unit (610). The first driving unit (610) may be, for example, a motor.

[0108] The above locking device (60) may further include a transmission unit (620) connected to the first driving unit (610). The transmission unit (620) may include, for example, a gear.

[0109] The above locking device (60) may further include a locking unit (630) that receives power of the first driving unit (610) from the transmission unit (620).

[0110] For example, the transmission unit (620) may be a pinion gear, and the locking unit (630) may be a rack including a rack gear that meshes with the pinion gear. The locking unit (630) may, for example, move in a linear manner. Of course, depending on the type of the transmission unit (620) or the shape of the locking unit (630), the locking unit (630) may also move in a rotational or curved manner.

[0111] The first driving unit (610), the transmission unit (620), and the locking unit (630) may be provided on the first door (30). Although not shown, the first door (30) may be provided with a foam insulation material for insulation.

[0112] The first door (30) is provided with a mounting frame (not shown), and the mounting frame can define an insulating space in which the insulating material is accommodated and a mounting space in which the first driving unit (610) is positioned. The first driving unit (610), the transmission unit (620), and the locking unit (630) can be positioned in the mounting space.

[0113] For example, a hole (312) for the locking part (630) to pass through may be formed in the wall (310) forming the first opening (32) in the first door (30).

[0114] The locking portion (630) may include a protrusion (632) that can penetrate the hole (312). In the unlocked state of the first door (30) and the second door (40), the protrusion (632) may be positioned in the hole (312) or inside the first door (30).

[0115] Meanwhile, the second door (40) may include a door body. The interior of the door body may be provided with a foam insulation material for insulation.

[0116] The door body may include a second opening. The door body may include a body frame (410) and a door liner (420) connected to the body frame (410). The second opening may be formed while the body frame (410) and the door liner (420) are connected.

[0117] The second door (40) may further include a panel assembly (430) covering the second opening.

[0118] The second door (40) may include an extension (422). The extension (422) may extend from the rear of the second door (40). For example, the extension (422) may extend from the door liner (420).

[0119] When the second door (40) is closed, the extension (422) can be accommodated in the first opening (32) of the first door (30). A groove (424) for accommodating the protrusion (632) can be formed in the extension (422).

[0120] The second door (40) may further include a latch portion (470). The latch portion (470) may form a part of the groove (424). Alternatively, the latch portion (470) may cover a part of the groove (424) when the lock portion (630) is inserted into the groove (424). Alternatively, the latch portion (470) may be caught on the protrusion (632) accommodated in the groove (424). While the latch portion (470) is caught on the protrusion (632), movement of the latch portion (470) is possible, but rotation of the second door (40) may be restricted. That is, when the second door (40) is to be rotated while the latch part (470) is caught on the protrusion (632), the protrusion (632) restricts the movement of the latch part (470), and as a result, the rotation of the second door (40) may be restricted.

[0121] The above latch part (470) is movable, and in the first position (or standby position or initial position) of the latch part (470), the first door (30) and the second door (40) can be locked.

[0122] When the protrusion (632) is removed from the groove (424) at the initial position of the latch portion (470), the first door (30) and the second door (40) can be in an unlocked state. In the unlocked state, the second door (40) can be rotated with respect to the first door (30). The specific shape and movement of the latch portion (470) will be described later with reference to the drawings.

[0123] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 1.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 6, the panel assembly (430) may include a front panel (432) and an insulation panel (434, 436) spaced apart from the front panel (432). The front panel (432) and the insulation panel (434, 436) may be spaced apart by a spacer (433).

[0125] For example, the insulation panel (434, 436) may include a first panel (434) positioned on the rear side of the front panel (432) and a second panel (436) positioned on the rear side of the first panel (434). The front panel (432) may be formed to be larger than the first panel (434). Accordingly, the front panel (432) may include an extension portion (432a) that extends laterally further than the first panel (434).

[0126] The above body frame (410) can be connected to the front panel (432), and the above door liner (420) can be connected to the second panel (436).

[0127] The above refrigerator door (20) may further include an input detection unit (70). The input detection unit (70) may detect, for example, an input of a door opening command for opening the second door (40).

[0128] The above input detection unit (70) may be provided, for example, in the second door (40). If the second door (40) has a structure that is accommodated in the first opening (32) of the first door (30), the input detection unit (70) may also be provided in the first door (30).

[0129] The input detection unit (70) may be installed on the door body or the front panel (432). For example, the input detection unit (70) may be installed on the rear surface of the front panel (432) by, for example, an adhesive means (79). The input detection unit (70) may be positioned on an extension portion (432a) of the front panel (432) that extends outward from the door beyond the insulation panel (434).

[0130] The input detection unit (70) may be a touch sensor that detects a user's touch on the front panel (432), or a knock sensor that detects multiple knocks on the front panel (432). For example, the input detection unit (70) may be a capacitance sensor, a sensor that detects vibration, or a sensor that detects sound waves.

[0131] FIG. 7 is a drawing partially showing a second door in an open state according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a door opening device provided in the second door. FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a state in which a door opening portion protrudes from the second door. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the position of the door opening device in the second door. FIG. 11 is a drawing showing the door opening device and the auto closing unit in the second door.

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11, the second door (40) may be provided with a door opening device (80) for automatically opening the second door (40). The second door (40) may be rotated by the door opening device (80) to open the first opening (32).

[0133] The body frame (410) or door liner (420) may be provided with a receiving portion (412) for receiving the door opening device (80). The receiving portion (412) may be formed, for example, by recessing from the rear of the second door (40) toward the front.

[0134] When the door opening device (80) is accommodated in the receiving portion (412), the receiving portion (412) can be covered by a receiving portion cover (450). For example, the receiving portion cover (450) can be coupled to the rear of the second door (40).

[0135] The door opening device (80) may include a second driving unit (810). The door opening device (80) may further include a door opening unit (820) operated by the second driving unit (810).

[0136] The second driving unit (810) may include a motor. The door opening unit (820) may be connected to the motor. Alternatively, the second driving unit (810) may include a motor and one or more gears connected to the motor. The door opening unit (820) may be connected to the one or more gears.

[0137] The door opening portion (820) may, for example, rotate. The thickness of the second door (40) may be thinner than that of the first door (30). The door opening portion (820) may rotate so that the second door (40) can be opened by the operation of the door opening portion (820).

[0138] The above second driving unit (810) may be located on the lower side of the door opening unit (820).

[0139] The door opening portion (820) may include a contact portion (824) that comes into contact with the front surface of the first door (30) during the door opening process. The contact portion (824) may be, for example, a roller that is rotatably connected to one end of the door opening portion (820).

[0140] A through hole (452) may be formed in the above-mentioned receiving portion cover (450). The door opening portion (820) may pass through the through hole (452). Alternatively, the through hole (452) may be formed on the rear surface of the second door (40) regardless of the receiving portion cover (450).

[0141] The door opening portion (820) can be moved from the initial position to the door opening position. With the door opening portion (820) positioned at the initial position, the contact portion (824) can be positioned in the through hole (452) or in the receiving portion (412).

[0142] By the rotational motion of the door opening portion (820), the door opening portion (820) can protrude from the second door (40) by penetrating the through hole (452). To enable the door opening portion (820) to protrude by penetrating the through hole (452), the horizontal length of the through hole (452) can be greater than the height (or vertical length).

[0143] The above door opening device (80) may include a mounting bracket (830) on which the second driving unit (810) is mounted. The second driving unit (810) may include a fastening hole (812) for fastening to the mounting bracket (830).

[0144] The above-described mounting bracket (830) may include a slot (831) in which the second driving unit (810) is accommodated. The above-described mounting bracket (830) may further include a fastening portion (832) for fastening to the door body. The fastening portion (832) may extend horizontally from the mounting bracket (830). One or more fastening holes (834) may be formed in the fastening portion (832). The above-described mounting bracket (830) may be accommodated in the receiving portion (412) in a horizontal direction. By changing the position or shape of the receiving portion (412), the above-described mounting bracket (830) may be accommodated in the receiving portion (412) in an up-and-down direction.

[0145] The second door (40) may be provided with a hinge mounting portion (418) for mounting the second hinge (53). The hinge mounting portion (418) may be formed by the upper surface of the second door (40) being sunken downward or by the rear surface of the second door (40) being sunken toward the front.

[0146] The rotation center (C2) (or center line) of the door opening (820) may extend in the vertical direction. Accordingly, the rotation center (C2) (or center line) of the door opening (820) may be parallel to the rotation center (C1) (or center line) of the second door (40).

[0147] At the initial position of the door opening portion (820), the contact portion (824) may be positioned closer to the front of the first door (30) or the rear of the second door (40) than the rotational center (C2) of the door opening portion (820).

[0148] At the initial position of the door opening portion (820), the contact portion (824) may be positioned closer to the front of the first door (30) or the rear of the second door (40) than the rotation center (C1) of the second door (40).

[0149] The second door (40) may further include an auto closing unit (90) to cause the second door (40) to be operatively closed when the second door (40) is opened to less than a reference angle.

[0150] The door opening angle of the second door (40) opened by the door opening portion (820) may be smaller than the reference angle. Therefore, when the second door (40) is opened by the door opening portion (820) by the door opening angle, but the user does not further open the second door (40), and the door opening portion (820) returns to the initial position, the second door (40) may be automatically closed by the auto closing unit (90).

[0151] The auto closing unit (90) may include a first body (910) that has an elastic member accommodated therein and extends in a vertical direction, and a second body (914) that is provided on one side of the first body (910) and is fastened to the second door (40). The shaft (532) of the second hinge (53) may pass through an opening (916) of the second body (914). The shaft (532) may be directly connected to the elastic member of the first body (910) or may be connected to the elastic member by a separate connector.

[0152] The wires for connecting to the second driving unit (810), the input detection unit (70), the proximity sensor (71), etc. can pass through the shaft (532).

[0153] At the initial position of the door opening portion (820), the rotation center (C2) of the door opening portion (820) may be positioned between the contact portion (824) and the rotation center (C1) of the second door (40). In this case, when the door opening portion (820) rotates, the length of the door opening portion (820) may be increased without interfering with the second hinge (53).

[0154] As the door opening portion (820) moves from the initial position to the door opening position, the distance between the contact portion (824) and the rotation center (C1) of the second door (40) may decrease.

[0155] The second body (914) may be positioned lower than the bottom of the hinge mounting portion (418), and the door opening portion (820) may be positioned higher than the bottom of the hinge mounting portion (418). Accordingly, interference between the door opening portion (820) and the auto closing unit (90) may be prevented.

[0156] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the locking part of the present embodiment.

[0157] Referring to Fig. 12, the locking part (630) of the present embodiment may include a rack gear (631) for transmitting power from the transmission part (620). The rack gear (631) may, for example, extend in a horizontal direction.

[0158] The locking portion (630) may further include a protrusion (632) (or locking projection) for insertion into the groove (424). A recessed portion (634) may be formed in the protrusion (632). A portion of the latch portion (470) may be inserted into the recessed portion (634).

[0159] In this embodiment, the position at which the locking part (630) is moved to be inserted into the groove (424) may be referred to as a locking position. The position at which the locking part (630) is moved to be removed from the groove (424) may be referred to as an unlocking position.

[0160] The protrusion (632) may further include an inclined portion (633). The inclined portion (633) may be positioned opposite the recessed portion (634). The inclined portion (633) may contact the latch portion (470) when the second door (40) is manually opened and then closed, thereby allowing the latch portion (470) to rotate.

[0161] Fig. 13 is a drawing of the second door viewed from below with the first and second doors closed, and Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing a latch portion provided in an extension of the second door.

[0162] Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing a state in which a latch portion is removed from an extension of a second door, Fig. 16 is a view showing a state in which a latch portion and an operating portion are installed in a second door, Fig. 17 is a view showing a state in which an operating portion is installed in a second door, and Fig. 18 is a perspective view of an operating portion according to the present embodiment. Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a latch portion according to the present embodiment.

[0163] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 19, a handle (45) may be provided on the lower side of the second door (40). A user may grasp the handle (45) to rotate the second door (40). The first door (30) may not be provided with a handle. Of course, it is also possible for the first door (30) to be provided with a handle.

[0164] When the first door (30) and the second door (40) are closed, the first door (30) and the second door (40) can be locked. In this state, when a user pulls the second door (40) while holding the handle (45) of the second door (40), the first door (30) can be rotated together with the second door (40).

[0165] Since the opening of the first door (30) and the opening of the second door (40) are possible using the handle (45) of the second door (40), the user can easily open the first door (30) or the second door (40) while holding the handle (45).

[0166] If a handle is not formed on the first door (30), there is an advantage in that the structure of the first door (30) becomes simpler. In addition, since the first door (30) is positioned behind the second door (40), there is an advantage in that the user does not have to move his / her hand to the lower side of the first door (30).

[0167] The second door (40) may further include an operating part (460) for moving the latch part (470).

[0168] In the non-operated state of the above operation unit (460), the latch unit (470) is positioned at the initial position. When the latch unit (470) is positioned at the initial position, in the locked state of the second door (40), the rotation of the second door (40) is restricted.

[0169] However, in the event that the power supplied to the refrigerator (1) is cut off, such as during a power outage, the locking state of the first door (30) and the second door (40) is maintained, so there is a disadvantage in that the second door (40) cannot be opened.

[0170] Even if the power supplied to the refrigerator (1) is cut off, there is a need to take out the food stored in the first door (30), but if the second door (40) cannot be opened, there is an inconvenience in having to open the first door (30) to take out the food.

[0171] In the present embodiment, even if the power supplied to the refrigerator (1) is cut off and the locking device cannot be operated, if the operating unit (460) is operated to move the latch unit (470) from the initial position to the unlocked position, the rotation of the second door (40) becomes possible. That is, if the operating unit (460) is operated in the locked state of the first door (30) and the second door (40), the opening of the second door (40) becomes possible.

[0172] A part of the above-described operating portion (460) may be positioned to be exposed to the handle (45). For example, a part of the above-described operating portion (460) may protrude into the internal space of the handle (45), and another part may be positioned inside the second door (40).

[0173] Within the handle (45), the operating portion (460) may be positioned adjacent to the extension portion (422) in the vertical direction. In this case, the transmission path for the operating force of the operating portion (460) to be transmitted to the latch portion (470) may be reduced.

[0174] The extension portion (422) may be provided with a groove (424) for receiving the protrusion (632). A receiving portion (425) for receiving the latch portion (470) may be provided on one side of the groove (424). For example, the receiving portion (425) may be positioned on the lower side of the groove (424). As another example, the receiving portion (425) may be positioned on the upper side of the groove (424).

[0175] The groove (424) may be formed by being sunken in the first surface of the extension portion (422). The receiving portion (425) may be formed by being sunken in the second surface intersecting the first surface of the extension portion (422). From another aspect, the groove (424) may be sunken in the first surface of the extension portion (422), and the receiving portion (425) may also be sunken in the first surface of the extension portion (422).

[0176] A slot (426) through which a part of the latch portion (470) passes may be formed in the above-mentioned receiving portion (425).

[0177] The latch portion (470) may include a first portion (471). A portion of the first portion (471) may be accommodated in the receiving portion (425). Another portion of the first portion (471) may protrude outward from the receiving portion (425).

[0178] A catch (472) for catching on one side of the protrusion (632) may be formed in the first part (471).

[0179] The above-mentioned catch (472) may be positioned on the upper side of the first part (471) based on the drawing. A protrusion (474) (or catch protrusion) inserted into the recessed portion (634) of the protruding portion (632) may be formed on the catch (472).

[0180] The above-mentioned catch (472) can cover a part of the groove (424) on the outside of the receiving portion (425).

[0181] In a state where the above-mentioned catch (472) is caught on the above-mentioned locking portion (630), a part of the above-mentioned locking portion (630) may be positioned between a part of the above-mentioned catch (472) and the front surface (or front panel) of the second door (40).

[0182] An inclined surface (473) may be formed on the above-mentioned catch portion (472). Based on the above-mentioned catch portion (472), the inclined surface (473) may be formed on the opposite side of the protrusion (474).

[0183] In the locking position of the above locking portion (630), when the second door (40) is manually opened and then closed again, the inclined surface (473) can come into contact with the inclined surface (633) of the protrusion (632).

[0184] The first portion (471) may be formed so that its width decreases as it goes downward. For example, the first portion (471) may include a first inclined surface (471a).

[0185] The first portion (471) may further include a second inclined surface (471b). The catch portion (472) may extend from a position adjacent to the second inclined surface (471b).

[0186] The distance between the first inclined surface (471a) and the second inclined surface (471b) may decrease as it goes downward. Alternatively, depending on the position of the latch portion (470), the distance between the first inclined surface (471a) and the second inclined surface (471b) may also decrease as it goes upward.

[0187] The first inclined surface (471a) may be located within the receiving portion (425). The first inclined surface (471b) may be located on the outside of the receiving portion (425).

[0188] At the initial position of the latch portion (470), at least a portion of the first inclined surface (471a) may be spaced apart from the sunken surface (425a) of the receiving portion (425).

[0189] In the process of the latch portion (470) moving to the unlocked position, the first inclined surface (471a) moves in a direction closer to the sunken surface (425a). If at least a part of the first inclined surface (471a) is spaced apart from the sunken surface (425a) of the receiving portion (426), interference between the first inclined surface (471a) and the sunken surface (425a) can be prevented.

[0190] When the second inclined surface (471b) is located on the outside of the receiving portion (425), the size of the portion of the latch portion (470) that protrudes outward from the receiving portion (425) is reduced, so that interference with surrounding structures can be prevented when the second door (40) is closed.

[0191] The above latch portion (470) may further include a second portion (475) extending from the first portion (471). Based on the drawing, the second portion (475) may extend horizontally from the first portion (471).

[0192] The second part (475) can be introduced into the second door (40) by penetrating the slot (426).

[0193] A pin hole (476) may be formed in the second part (475). A pin (not shown) may be provided inside the second door (40), and the second part (475) may be rotatably supported on the second door (40) by the pin.

[0194] The above-mentioned operating unit (460) may be installed movably within the second door (40). For example, the above-mentioned operating unit (460) may be installed so as to be able to move up and down.

[0195] The door frame (410) or the door liner (420) may be provided with a guide portion (411, 412) for guiding the up and down movement of the operation portion (460). When the operation portion (460) is provided within the second door (40), the operation portion (460) may be located in a space partitioned from a space where an insulating material provided within the second door (40) is located.

[0196] The above-mentioned operating unit (460) may include a pressurizing unit (461) for the user to press. The pressurizing unit (461) may be located on the handle (45).

[0197] The above-described operating unit (460) may further include an extension unit (463) extending from the pressurizing unit (461). The extension unit (463) extends upward from the pressurizing unit (461) and may be guided for vertical movement by the guide unit (411, 412).

[0198] The above-described operating unit (460) may further include a transmission unit (464) extending from the extension unit (463). The transmission unit (464) may come into contact with the latch unit (470).

[0199] The above-mentioned transmission unit (464) may include, for example, a first part extending horizontally and a second part extending upward from the first part, but the shape is not limited thereto.

[0200] The above-mentioned transmission unit (464) may include a contact end (464a) that comes into contact with the latch unit (470).

[0201] The first part (471) is positioned on one side of the second part (475), and the contact end (464a) can, for example, contact the other side located on the opposite side of the first part (471) based on the pin hole (476) in the second part (475).

[0202] The above-described operating part (460) may further include a first support part (463) that supports an elastic member (480). The first support part (463) may, for example, extend from the extension part (462). When the elastic member (480) is, for example, a coil spring, the first support part (463) may be inserted into an internal space of the coil spring, and one end of the coil spring may be seated in the extension part (462). The door frame (410) or the door liner (420) may be provided with a second support part (413) that supports the other side of the elastic member (480).

[0203] For example, the other end of the coil spring may contact the second support portion (413). The first support portion (463) may, for example, penetrate the second support portion (413).

[0204] Fig. 20 is a drawing showing the state of the latch, lock, and operating portion when the latch portion is positioned at the initial position, and Fig. 21 is a drawing showing the state when the operating portion is operated and the latch portion moves to the unlocked position.

[0205] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, in the locking position of the locking part (630), the operating part (460) can be operated to manually open the second door (40).

[0206] For example, the above operating unit (460) can be pressed upward.

[0207] The second door (40) can be manually opened by operating the operating unit (460) not only when the power supplied to the refrigerator (1) is cut off, but also when the power is supplied to the refrigerator (1).

[0208] When the above operating unit (460) is operated, for example, by pressing the operating unit (460) upward, the operating unit (460) can rise.

[0209] When the above-described operating part (460) rises, the contact body (464a) raises the other side of the second part (475), so that the second part (475) can rotate. When the second part (475) rotates, the first part (471) located at one side of the second part (475) descends. Accordingly, the latch part (470) moves from the initial position to the unlocked position. In the present specification, the direction in which the latch part (470) moves from the initial position to the unlocked position may be referred to as the first direction. The direction in which the latch part (470) moves from the unlocked position to the initial position may be referred to as the second direction.

[0210] When the first part (471) is lowered, the protrusion (474) can be removed from the recessed portion (634). In addition, when the first part (471) is lowered, the upper end of the catch (472) can be positioned lower than the lower end of the protrusion (632). In this state, when the handle (45) is held and the second door (40) is opened, the second door (40) can be rotated without interference between the protrusion (632) and the latch portion (470).

[0211] The movement of the latch portion (470) from the initial position to the unlocked position means that the latch portion (470) moves to a position where interference with the lock portion (630) is prevented.

[0212] Meanwhile, when the operating force of the operating part (460) is removed after the second door (40) is opened, the operating part (460) is lowered by the elastic force of the elastic member (480). The latch part (470) moves in the second direction from the unlocked position to the initial position.

[0213] Figure 22 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0214] Referring to FIG. 22, the refrigerator (1) may further include a proximity sensor (71) that detects a user's approach to the refrigerator (1).

[0215] The above proximity sensor (71) may be provided, for example, on the second door (40). When a user approaches the second door (40) within a reference distance, the input detection unit (70) may be activated.

[0216] If the second door (40) is structured to be accommodated in the first opening (32) of the first door (30), the proximity sensor (71) may also be provided in the first door (30).

[0217] If the above proximity sensor (71) is provided in the second door (40), the input detection unit (70) can be prevented from being unnecessarily activated by a child or pet.

[0218] Of course, the above proximity sensor (71) may be omitted, in which case it is also possible for the input detection unit (70) to remain in an activated state.

[0219] When the proximity sensor (71) detects that a user is approaching the second door (40) within a reference distance, a light-emitting unit (not shown) can irradiate light toward the input detection unit (70) or around the input detection unit (70). Alternatively, the input detection unit (70) may include a light-emitting unit.

[0220] The user can easily confirm the position of the input detection unit (70) by the light irradiated by the light emitting unit.

[0221] If the first door (30) can also be opened automatically, the second door (40) can be equipped with two input detection units (70). That is, when a user approaches the second door (40) within a reference distance, the two input detection units (70) can be activated, and the user can select a door to be opened and input a door opening command.

[0222] The above refrigerator may further include a control unit (100).

[0223] The control unit (100) can control one or more of the locking device (60) and the door opening device (80). For example, the control unit (100) can control the first driving unit (610) and the second driving unit (810).

[0224] In this specification, the control unit (100) may be a single control unit or may include a first control unit and a second control unit that are configured separately. That is, the first control unit may control the first driving unit (610), and the second control unit may control the second driving unit (810).

[0225] The above refrigerator (1) may further include a door opening / closing detection unit (102).

[0226] The above door opening / closing detection unit (102) can detect the closing of the second door (40).

[0227] The above door opening / closing detection unit (102) can detect that the second door (40) is opened at a limit angle greater than the door opening angle.

[0228] When the second door (40) is opened to the door opening angle, the second door (40) must be manually rotated in the opening direction by the user so that the second door (40) can be opened beyond the limited angle.

[0229] The above control unit (100) can operate the first driving unit (610) so that the first door (30) and the second door (40) are locked when the opening and closing of the second door (40) is detected by the door opening and closing detection unit (102).

[0230] As another example, the door open / close detection unit (102) may include a first detection unit for detecting the closing of the second door (40). In addition, the door open / close detection unit (102) may include a second detection unit for detecting that the second door (40) is opened beyond a limited angle. The first detection unit and the second detection unit may be the same type of sensor or different types of sensors.

[0231] The control unit (100) can operate the first driving unit (610) so that the first door (30) and the second door (40) are in an unlocked state when the input detection unit (70) detects a user's door opening command input when the second door (40) is closed and the first door (30) and the second door (40) are in a locked state.

[0232] The control unit (100) can operate the second driving unit (810) so that the second door (40) is opened by the door opening unit (820) after the user's door opening command is detected by the input detection unit (70) (for example, the motor rotates in the forward direction).

[0233] The control unit (100) can operate the second driving unit (810) so that the door opening unit (820) moves from the door opening position to the initial position (for example, the motor rotates in the reverse direction) when the door opening / closing detection unit (102) detects that the second door (40) is opened beyond the limit angle after the second driving unit (810) is operated.

[0234] The operation of the above locking device and door opening device will be described below.

[0235] FIG. 23 is a drawing showing a state in which an input detection unit is activated when a user approaches a refrigerator within a reference distance, FIG. 24 is a drawing showing a state in which a user inputs a door opening command to the input detection unit, FIG. 25 is a drawing showing a state in which the first door and the second door are unlocked by a locking device, and FIG. 26 is a drawing showing a state in which the second door is opened by a door opening device to a door opening angle.

[0236] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 26, when it is detected that a user has approached the refrigerator (1) within a reference distance, the input detection unit (70) of each of the first and second refrigerator doors (21, 22) may be activated. As described above, light may be irradiated to the input detection unit (70) or to the surroundings of the input detection unit (70) by the operation of the light emitting unit.

[0237] Alternatively, when the proximity sensor (71) of any one of the first and second refrigerator doors (21, 22) detects that the user is approaching the refrigerator (1) within a standard distance, the input detection unit (70) of the refrigerator door equipped with the proximity sensor (71) may be activated.

[0238] Referring to Fig. 25, for example, when a user touches an area corresponding to an input detection unit (70) on the second door (40), the input detection unit (70) may detect that a door opening command has been input. Of course, depending on the type of the input detection unit (70), it is also possible to detect that a door opening command has been input by knocking on the front of the second door (40) two or more times.

[0239] When the second door (40) is closed, the second door (40) and the first door (30) can be kept in a locked state by the locking device (60).

[0240] Meanwhile, if an input of a door opening command is not detected within an input reference time after the input detection unit (70) is activated, the input detection unit (70) may be deactivated. For example, the light emitting unit may also be turned off. In addition, if a user is not detected by the proximity sensor (71) before the input reference time elapses after the input detection unit (70) is activated, the input detection unit (70) may be deactivated.

[0241] Referring to Fig. 26, when a door opening command is detected to be input from the input detection unit (70), the first driving unit (610) can be operated by the control unit (100) (motor rotation in one direction). Then, the locking unit (630) moves in one direction, so that the protrusion (632) of the locking unit (630) comes out of the groove (424) of the extension (422) of the second door (40), so that the first door (30) and the second door (40) can be in an unlocked state. In addition, the protrusion (474) of the latch unit (470) can come out of the recess (634).

[0242] After the first door (30) and the second door (40) are unlocked, the second driving unit (810) can be operated to open the second door (40) (forward rotation of the motor).

[0243] For example, when a set time has elapsed since the first driving unit (610) has been operated, the second driving unit (810) may be operated.

[0244] As shown in Fig. 26, when the second driving unit (810) is operated, the door opening unit (820) rotates so that the door opening unit (820) protrudes toward the first door (30) and pushes the first door (30). In the process of the door opening unit (820) pushing the first door (30), the second door (40) may rotate.

[0245] After the first door (30) and the second door (40) are unlocked, the second door (40) can be rotated, so the second door (40) can be opened automatically by the operation of the second driving unit (810) or manually by the user.

[0246] By the operation of the second driving unit (810), the door opening unit (820) can be moved from the initial position to the door opening position. When the door opening unit (820) is moved to the door opening position, the second door (40) can be opened by the door opening angle.

[0247] When the door opening part (820) moves to the door opening position, the second driving part (810) can stop. In this case, the second door (40) can be maintained in an open state by the door opening angle.

[0248] When the second driving unit (810) is stopped and the set time has elapsed, the second driving unit (810) operates to move the door opening unit (820) from the door opening position to the initial position (reverse rotation of the motor).

[0249] When the second door (40) is opened by the door opening angle, and the second door (40) is not manually opened further by the user, and the set time has elapsed, the door opening part (820) can be moved from the door opening position to the initial position by the second driving part (810). In this case, the second door (40) can be automatically closed by the auto closing unit (90). When the second door (40) is automatically closed, the closing of the second door (40) is detected by the door opening / closing detection part (102). In this case, the first door (30) and the second door (40) are locked by the operation of the first driving part (610). That is, the protrusion (632) of the locking part (630) can be inserted into the groove (424) of the second door (40).

[0250] Meanwhile, in order to open the second door (40), while the second driving unit (820) is operating or while the door opening unit (820) has moved to the door opening position, the user can manually further open the second door (40). In this case, the door opening detection unit (102) may detect that the second door (40) has been opened beyond the limited angle. Then, the control unit (100) may control the second driving unit (810) so that the door opening unit (820) returns to the initial position.

[0251] The second door (40) can be manually closed by a user, and when the closing of the second door (40) is detected, the control unit (100) can operate the first driving unit (610) so that the first door (30) and the second door (40) are locked (rotated in the other direction of the motor).

[0252] Meanwhile, when the operation unit (460) is operated while the first door (30) and the second door (40) are in a locked state, the latch unit (470) moves to a release position where interference with the lock unit (630) is released, so that the second door (40) can be opened manually.

[0253] When the second door (40) is closed again while the second door (40) is manually opened, the latch portion (470) is positioned in the locking position, so that the inclined surface (473) of the latch portion (470) can come into contact with the inclined portion (633) of the protrusion (632).

[0254] In this state, if the second door (40) is additionally rotated in the closing direction, the latch part (470) can be rotated in the first direction.

[0255] After the latch portion (470) is rotated in the first direction, the upper end of the catch portion (472) moves along the lower end of the protrusion (632), and when the second door (40) is completely closed, the latch portion (470) is rotated in the second direction and returns to the initial position. That is, the protrusion (474) is inserted into the recessed portion (634).

[0256] Meanwhile, it is possible to move the locking part (630) to an unlocked state while the latch part (470) is positioned at the initial position, and in this process, the protrusion (474) falls out of the recessed part (634) of the locking part (630).

[0257] Since the above-mentioned recessed portion (634) is formed at the end of the above-mentioned protrusion (634), even when the above-mentioned protrusion (474) is inserted into the above-mentioned recessed portion (634), the above-mentioned locking portion (630) can move to the unlocking position without interference with the above-mentioned protrusion (474).

[0258] According to this embodiment, there is an advantage in that automatic opening of the second door located on the outside of a door composed of a first door and a second door is possible.

[0259] Additionally, when the input detection unit is activated when the proximity of the user is detected, there is an advantage in that unnecessary activation of the input detection unit is detected.

[0260] When the second door is closed, the second door and the first door are locked, which provides the advantage of allowing the first door to be opened. Furthermore, since the handle for opening the first door is identical to the handle for opening the second door, there is an advantage of eliminating the need for two separate handles.

[0261] In addition, even when the power supplied to the refrigerator is cut off, such as during a power outage, there is an advantage in that the second door can be manually opened by operating the operating unit.

[0262] In addition, even if the locking device is broken or malfunctions, there is an advantage in that the second door can be manually opened by operating the operating unit.

[0263] Meanwhile, each of the first and second refrigerator doors (21, 22) may be equipped with a lighting unit. In this case, there is an advantage in that items stored in each of the first and second refrigerator doors (21, 22) can be checked without opening the second door.

[0264] In the above embodiment, the door opening device is described as being provided on the second door. However, it should be noted that it may also be provided on the first door. For example, the door opening portion may protrude from the first door and push the second door to open the second door.

[0265] In addition, when the receiving portion (425) is positioned on the upper side of the home (424), the shape of the latch portion (470) may also be changed, and the rotation direction of the latch portion (470) by the operation of the operating portion (460) may be opposite to that described above.

Claims

1. Cabinet with storage space; A first door having an opening for opening and closing the storage room; A second door that opens and closes the above opening and is rotatable relative to the first door; A locking device that locks or unlocks the first door and the second door when the second door is closed; A door opening device for automatically opening the second door; and A refrigerator including a control unit that controls the door opening device.

2. In paragraph 1, The locking device includes a locking part provided on the first door, The above second door, A latch portion that engages the lock portion when the lock portion is positioned in the locking position; A refrigerator including an operating unit for moving the latch portion to a release position where the latch portion is released from the lock portion.

3. In paragraph 2, A refrigerator wherein the second door includes a handle, and the operating part is exposed through the handle.

4. In paragraph 3, When the handle is pulled while the first and second doors are locked, the first door is opened. When the above operation unit is operated while the above first and second doors are locked and the handle is pulled, the above second door is opened. A refrigerator in which the second door is opened when the handle is pulled while the first and second doors are unlocked.

5. In paragraph 2, The second door includes a groove into which the locking part is inserted at the locking position of the locking part, The above latch portion forms a part of the above groove, or A refrigerator in which a portion of the latch portion covers the groove while the latch portion is engaged with the lock portion.

6. In paragraph 2, When the above locking part is positioned in the locking position and the operating part is operated in one direction, A refrigerator in which the latch portion is rotated in the first direction and moves to the unlocked position.

7. In paragraph 2, The above locking portion includes a recessed portion, A refrigerator in which the latch portion includes a catch portion for engaging the lock portion, and a protrusion formed in the catch portion for being inserted into the recessed portion.

8. In paragraph 7, When the above latch part moves to the above release position, A refrigerator in which the protrusion is removed from the recessed portion and the latch portion is separated from the lock portion.

9. In paragraph 7, In the above-mentioned hanging part, an inclined surface is formed on the opposite side of the above-mentioned protrusion, A refrigerator in which a slope is formed on the opposite side of the recessed portion in the above locking portion.

10. In paragraph 2, The above latch portion comprises a first portion in which a catch portion for engaging with the lock portion is formed, A refrigerator comprising a second portion extending from the first portion and rotatably supported on the second door.

11. In paragraph 10, The second door includes a receiving portion in which a portion of the first portion is received, A refrigerator in which a slot is formed in the above-mentioned receiving portion for the second portion to penetrate therethrough.

12. In paragraph 11, The first part includes a first inclined surface accommodated in the receiving portion, A refrigerator in which at least a portion of the first inclined surface is spaced apart from the sunken surface of the receiving portion while the above-mentioned catch is caught on the locking portion.

13. In paragraph 12, A refrigerator in which the first inclined surface approaches the sunken surface when the latch portion moves to the unlocked position.

14. In paragraph 12, The first part further includes a second inclined surface located on the outside of the receiving portion, A refrigerator in which the distance between the first and second inclined surfaces decreases as it goes downward.

15. In paragraph 2, The above locking device further includes a first driving unit, The above locking part operates by receiving power from the first driving part, The above first door is provided with a hole through which the lock passes, A refrigerator in which the locking member penetrates the hole and is inserted into the groove of the second door.

16. In paragraph 15, The second door includes an extension positioned in the opening when the second door is closed, A refrigerator having a groove for inserting the locking part into the extension part and the latch part.

17. In paragraph 16, A refrigerator in which the locking portion is located between a part of the latch portion and the front surface of the second door while the latch portion is engaged with the locking portion.

18. In paragraph 1, Further comprising an input detection unit for detecting an input of an opening command of the second door, When the input detection unit detects an input of an opening command for the second door, the locking device is controlled so that the first door and the second door are in an unlocked state. A refrigerator in which, when the first door and the second door are unlocked, the control unit operates the door opening device to open the second door.

19. In paragraph 18, Further comprising a door opening / closing detection unit for detecting the closing of the second door; When the closing of the second door is detected by the door opening / closing detection unit, A refrigerator in which the locking device is controlled so that the first door and the second door are locked.

20. In paragraph 1, The above door opening device, The second drive unit, A refrigerator comprising a door opening unit that operates by receiving power from the second driving unit and pushes the first door or the second door during the opening process of the second door.

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