Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to the present embodiment comprises: a cabinet having storage chambers; doors for opening / closing the storage chambers; and a hinge device for rotatably connecting the door to the cabinet, wherein the hinge device includes a pin unit and a pin slot in which the pin unit is accommodated, the pin unit includes a first pin and a second pin spaced apart from each other, the pin slot includes a first slot in which the first pin is accommodated and a second slot in which the second pin is accommodated, and the center of rotation of the door moves during opening of the door by means of a change in the relative position of the pin unit and the pin slot.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] This specification relates to a refrigerator.

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

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

[0004] The above refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage space, and a door connected to the cabinet and having the storage space.

[0005] For example, if the above refrigerator is installed inside a cabinet, there is a risk that the door may hit the cabinet during the opening process, which may limit the opening angle of the door.

[0006] Recently, a hinge structure has been developed to prevent the door from interfering with surrounding structures such as furniture during the door opening process.

[0007] Prior literature related to this includes International Publication WO2019 / 007278A1.

[0008] One embodiment provides a refrigerator having an increased opening angle of the door.

[0009] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which interference with surrounding structures is prevented during the door opening process.

[0010] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the door opens smoothly without rattling during the door opening and closing process.

[0011] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the drawer is prevented from interfering with the door when the door is opened to a maximum opening angle.

[0012] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet forming a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the storage compartment; and a hinge mechanism for rotatably connecting the door to the cabinet.

[0013] The above hinge mechanism may include a pin unit and a pin slot in which the pin unit is accommodated.

[0014] The pin unit may include a first pin and a second pin that are spaced apart from each other. The pin slot may include a first slot in which the first pin is received, and a second slot in which the second pin is received.

[0015] By varying the relative positions of the pin unit and the pin slot, the center of rotation of the door can move during the opening process of the door.

[0016] The above hinge mechanism may further include a hinge body installed in the cabinet. The pin unit may extend from the hinge body, and the pin slot may be provided in the door.

[0017] The above hinge mechanism may further include a guide member that forms the pin slot and is coupled to the door.

[0018] The above hinge mechanism may further include a hinge body installed in the cabinet. The pin unit may be provided in the door, and the pin slot may be formed in the hinge body.

[0019] The first slot may include a portion having a variable curvature in the longitudinal direction, and the second slot may include a portion having a variable curvature in the longitudinal direction.

[0020] The first slot may include a first portion that contacts or is adjacent to the first pin when the door is closed, and a second portion that contacts or is adjacent to the first pin when the door is opened to a maximum opening angle. When the door is closed, the first portion may be positioned closer to the second slot than the second portion.

[0021] When the door is closed, a portion between the first portion and the second portion may be positioned closer to the cabinet than the first portion and the second portion.

[0022] The first slot and the second slot may be formed to include a portion formed to be identical to a trajectory created by a point on the circumference when a circle rolls, such as a cycloid trajectory, or to include a portion similar to the trajectory.

[0023] The trajectory of the center of rotation of the above door may include a curve.

[0024] When the point where the front of the door and the first side adjacent to the hinge mechanism meet among both sides of the door is referred to as the first point, the distance between the first point and the first pin can be reduced in at least a portion of the entire opening section of the door.

[0025] During at least a portion of the entire opening range of the door, the center of rotation of the door can move away from the cabinet.

[0026] During at least a portion of the entire opening range of the door, the center of rotation of the door can be moved in a direction closer to the cabinet.

[0027] In some sections of the entire opening section of the door, the center of rotation of the door may move away from the cabinet, and in other sections after the part of the opening section, the center of rotation of the door may move away from the cabinet.

[0028] In at least a portion of the entire opening range of the door, the distance between the center of rotation of the door and the first pin may be increased.

[0029] In at least a portion of the entire opening range of the door, the distance between the center of rotation of the door and the second pin may be increased.

[0030] Among the two side surfaces of the cabinet, a portion positioned adjacent to the pin unit is referred to as a first side surface, and based on an imaginary line extending in a direction away from the cabinet while passing through the first side surface, the center of rotation of the door can move in a direction closer to the imaginary line in at least a portion of the entire opening section of the door.

[0031] In one embodiment, the door opens when the center of rotation of the door moves, which has the advantage of increasing the opening angle of the door.

[0032] In one embodiment, the center of rotation of the door can be moved away from one side of the furniture, so that the door can be prevented from interfering with surrounding structures during the door opening process.

[0033] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the trajectory of the center of rotation of the door includes a curve, so that the door can rotate smoothly without rattling.

[0034] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that the drawer of the refrigerator is prevented from interfering with the door when the door is opened to the maximum opening angle.

[0035] Fig. 1 is a front view showing a state in which a refrigerator according to the present embodiment is installed in a furniture cabinet.

[0036] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment.

[0037] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a first hinge mechanism of a door according to the present embodiment.

[0038] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a second hinge mechanism of a door according to the present embodiment.

[0039] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the first hinge mechanism according to the present embodiment.

[0040] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a second hinge mechanism according to the present embodiment.

[0041] Figure 7 is a drawing showing the first pin unit being accommodated in the first pin slot.

[0042] Fig. 8 (a) is a drawing schematically showing the movement path of the rotation center point according to the movement of two pins having the same rotation center point, and Fig. 8 (b) is a drawing schematically showing the movement path of the rotation center point according to the relative movement of the pin unit and the pin slot.

[0043] FIGS. 9 and 10 are drawings schematically showing the relative positions of the pin unit and the pin slot and the movement path of the center of rotation according to the relative movement of the first member having the pin unit and the second member having the pin slot.

[0044] Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the movement trajectories of multiple points of the first door and the change in distance between the first point and the first pin during the opening process of the first door.

[0045] FIG. 12 (a) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot when the first door according to the present embodiment is closed, and FIG. 12 (b) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot when the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by a first angle.

[0046] FIG. 12 (c) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot in a state where the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by a second angle greater than the first angle, and FIG. 12 (d) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot in a state where the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by a third angle greater than the second angle.

[0047] FIG. 13 (a) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot in a state where the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by a fourth angle greater than the third angle, and FIG. 13 (b) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot in a state where the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by the maximum opening angle.

[0048] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing the left door and the right door of the present embodiment open with the distance between them at a minimum.

[0049] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing the left door and the right door open with the distance between the filler and the right door of the present embodiment at a minimum.

[0050] Figure 16 is a drawing showing a state where the distance between the first door and the furniture is at a minimum.

[0051] Figure 17 is a drawing showing the position of the first door and the cabinet with the first door open to its maximum opening angle.

[0052] Figure 18 is a drawing showing the drawer being pulled out from the storage space with the first door open to the maximum opening angle.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] Before explaining, let's define the direction. In the embodiment of the present invention, the direction toward the front of the door as shown in FIG. 2 is defined as forward, the direction toward the cabinet based on the front of the door is defined as rear, the direction toward the floor surface where the refrigerator is installed is defined as downward, and the direction away from the floor surface is defined as upward. When discussing directions that are not defined, the direction can be defined and explained based on each drawing.

[0056] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a state in which a refrigerator according to the present embodiment is installed in a cabinet, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the refrigerator according to the present embodiment, FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a first hinge mechanism of a door according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a second hinge mechanism of a door according to the present embodiment.

[0057] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a first hinge mechanism according to the present embodiment. Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a second hinge mechanism according to the present embodiment.

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, the refrigerator (1) according to the present embodiment can be installed independently in a kitchen or installed in a form accommodated in a furniture cabinet or wall inside an indoor space (hereinafter collectively referred to as a “furniture cabinet (P)”).

[0059] When the refrigerator (1) is installed in the cabinet, the refrigerator (1) may be installed alone or arranged left and right together with other refrigerators.

[0060] The above refrigerator (1) may include a cabinet (10) having a storage space. The above refrigerator (1) may further include a door (20) for opening and closing the storage space.

[0061] The above storage space is not limited, but may be divided into a first space (11) on the upper side and a second space (12) on the lower side. The door (20) may also include a first door (21) that opens and closes the first space (11) and a second door (22) that opens and closes the second space (12).

[0062] The first space may be a refrigerator, and the second space may be a freezer, or vice versa. Alternatively, the storage space may include a first space and a second space divided into left and right sides. Alternatively, the storage space may be a single space, with a single door opening and closing the storage space.

[0063] At least one of the first door (21) and the second door (22) may be a rotary door. Alternatively, a single door (20) may be a rotary door. Hereinafter, the rotary door (20), as an example, the first door (21), will be described. The following contents may also be applied to the second door (22).

[0064] In the present embodiment, the first door (21) can be rotatably connected to the cabinet (10) by a first hinge mechanism (30) and a second hinge mechanism (40).

[0065] When the first door (21) is composed of doors on both the left and right sides, each door can be rotatably connected to the cabinet (10) by the first hinge mechanism (30) and the second hinge mechanism (40). At this time, the first hinge mechanism (30) and the second hinge mechanism (40) connected to the left door, and the first hinge mechanism (30) and the second hinge mechanism (40) connected to the right door can be arranged in a symmetrical manner.

[0066] The first hinge mechanism (30) may be connected to the upper side of the first door (21). The second hinge mechanism (40) may be connected to the lower side of the first door (21). The first hinge mechanism (30) may be referred to as an upper hinge mechanism. The second hinge mechanism (40) may be referred to as a lower hinge mechanism.

[0067] The first hinge mechanism (30) may include a first hinge body (310). The first hinge body (310) may be coupled to the top or front surface of the cabinet (10).

[0068] A part of the first hinge body (310) may overlap the upper side of the first door (21) in the vertical direction.

[0069] The first door (21) may include a hinge mounting portion (210). The hinge mounting portion (210) may be formed by the upper surface of the first door (21) being sunken downward. Alternatively, the hinge mounting portion (210) may be formed by the rear surface of the first door (21) being sunken forward. A portion of the first hinge body (310) may be positioned in the hinge mounting portion (210).

[0070] The second hinge mechanism (40) may include a second hinge body (410). The second hinge body (410) may be coupled to the front or bottom of the cabinet (10). A portion of the second hinge body (410) may overlap the lower side of the first door (21) in a vertical direction. The second hinge body (410) may support the load of the first door (21).

[0071] Meanwhile, when the refrigerator (1) is installed in the cabinet (P), the smaller the gap between the wall of the refrigerator (1) and the cabinet (P), the greater the sense of unity between the refrigerator (1) and the cabinet (P). In this case, since the gap between the first door (21) and the cabinet (P) is small, the first door (21) should not interfere with the cabinet (P) or surrounding structures during the opening process.

[0072] In this embodiment, the opening angle of the first door (21) can be increased without interfering with the furniture or surrounding structures by the first hinge mechanism (30) and the second hinge mechanism (40).

[0073] For example, the first hinge mechanism (30) and the second hinge mechanism (40) can cause the virtual center of rotation of the first door (21) to move in at least a portion of the entire opening section of the first door (21).

[0074] Below, the first hinge mechanism (30) and the second hinge mechanism (40) will be described in detail.

[0075] The above first hinge mechanism (30) may further include a first pin unit (320).

[0076] The first pin unit (320) may include a first pin (321) and a second pin (322). The first pin (321) and the second pin (322) may be spaced apart from the first hinge body (310).

[0077] At least one of the first pin (321) and the second pin (322) may be coupled to the first hinge body (310). Alternatively, at least one of the first pin (321) and the second pin (322) may be formed integrally with the first hinge body (310).

[0078] The above first pin (321) may be formed in a cylindrical shape or may be formed in a non-cylindrical shape and include a round surface.

[0079] The above second pin (322) may be formed in a cylindrical shape or may be formed in a non-cylindrical shape and include a round surface.

[0080] The first pin (321) and the second pin (322) may, for example, extend from the first hinge body (310) toward the first door (21). The first pin (321) and the second pin (322) may extend downward from the first hinge body (310).

[0081] The first door (21) may include a first pin slot. The first pin unit (320) may be accommodated in the first pin slot.

[0082] The first pin slot may include a first slot (230) in which the first pin (321) is received, and a second slot (240) in which the second pin (322) is received.

[0083] The first slot (230) and the second slot (240) may be formed as one side of the first door (21) is sunken downward. In this case, the first slot (230) and the second slot (240) may be located at the bottom (211) of the hinge mounting portion (210).

[0084] Alternatively, the first guide member (220) coupled to the first door (21) may form the first slot (230) and the second slot (240).

[0085] The first guide member (220) may include a first plate (221) that is fastened to the hinge mounting portion (210). A fastening hole (222) through which a fastening member passes may be formed in the first plate (221). The fastening member may be fastened to the hinge mounting portion (210) by passing through the fastening hole (222).

[0086] The first guide member (220) may include a first guide (223) forming the first slot (230) and a second guide (224) forming the second slot (240). The first guide (223) and the second guide (224) may extend from the first plate (221).

[0087] The above second hinge mechanism (40) may further include a second pin unit (420).

[0088] The second hinge body (410) may include, for example, a coupling portion (411) coupled to the cabinet (10) and an extension portion (412) extending from the coupling portion (411). The second pin unit (420) may be provided in the extension portion (412).

[0089] The second pin unit (420) may, for example, extend from the second hinge body (410) toward the first door (21). The second pin unit (420) may extend upward from the extension portion (412).

[0090] The second pin unit (420) may include a third pin (421) and a fourth pin (422). The third pin (421) and the second pin (422) may be spaced apart from the second hinge body (410).

[0091] At least one of the third pin (421) and the fourth pin (422) may be coupled to the second hinge body (410). Alternatively, at least one of the third pin (421) and the fourth pin (422) may be formed integrally with the second hinge body (410).

[0092] The above third pin (421) may be formed in a cylindrical shape or may be formed in a non-cylindrical shape and include a round surface.

[0093] The above fourth pin (422) may be formed in a cylindrical shape or may be formed in a non-cylindrical shape and include a round surface.

[0094] The third pin (421) can be aligned vertically with the first pin (321). The fourth pin (422) can be aligned vertically with the second pin (322).

[0095] The first door (21) may further include a second pin slot. The second pin unit (420) may be accommodated in the second pin slot.

[0096] The second pin slot may include a third slot (260) in which the third pin (421) is received, and a fourth slot (270) in which the fourth pin (422) is received.

[0097] The third slot (260) and the fourth slot (270) can be formed as one side of the first door (21) is sunken upward.

[0098] Alternatively, the second guide member (250) coupled to the first door (21) may form the third slot (260) and the fourth slot (270).

[0099] The second guide member (250) may include a second plate (251) that is fastened to the first door (21). A fastening hole (252) through which a fastening member passes may be formed in the second plate (251). The fastening member may be fastened to the first door (21) by passing through the fastening hole (252).

[0100] The second guide member (250) may include a third guide (253) forming the third slot (260) and a fourth guide (254) forming the fourth slot (270). The third guide (253) and the second guide (254) may extend from the second plate (251).

[0101] Since the basic structure and operation of the second hinge mechanism are the same as those of the first hinge mechanism, the relationship between the first hinge mechanism and the first pin slot will be described in more detail below.

[0102] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a first pin unit accommodated in a first pin slot, FIG. 8 (a) is a drawing schematically showing a movement path of a rotation center point according to the movement of two pins having the same rotation center point, and FIG. 8 (b) is a drawing schematically showing a movement path of a rotation center point according to the relative movement of a pin unit and a pin slot.

[0103] First, referring to FIG. 5 and FIG. 7, the first pin (321) and the second pin (322) in the first door (21) can be spaced apart in the X-axis direction.

[0104] In this specification, the Y-axis direction may be the arrangement direction of the cabinet (10) and the door (20) or the front-back direction of the refrigerator.

[0105] The +Y-axis direction is the direction away from the cabinet (10), and the -Y-axis direction is the direction closer to the cabinet (10).

[0106] The X-axis direction can be the left-right direction of the refrigerator, in the direction that intersects the Y-axis direction in a horizontal direction.

[0107] The +X-axis direction is the direction away from the furniture (P) adjacent to the first door (21) or the direction closer to the door horizontally adjacent to the first door (21).

[0108] -The X-axis direction is the direction toward the furniture (P) adjacent to the first door (21) or the direction away from the door horizontally adjacent to the first door (21).

[0109] Among the two sides of the first door (21), the side positioned adjacent to the first pin unit (320) can be referred to as the first side (21c).

[0110] The first pin (321) may be positioned closer to the first side (21c) than the second pin (322).

[0111] The above first pin unit (320) can be positioned closer to the front (21a) than the rear (21b) of the first door (21).

[0112] The above first slot (230) can be formed in a shape that includes a trajectory drawn by the first pin (321) when the first door (21) is rotated.

[0113] The first slot (230) may include a first portion (231) that is in contact with or adjacent to the first pin (321) when the first door (21) is closed.

[0114] The first slot (230) may include a second portion (232) that is in contact with or adjacent to the first pin (321) when the first door (21) is opened to the maximum opening angle.

[0115] Based on the closed state of the first door (21), the first part (231) can be positioned closer to the second pin (322) than the second part (232).

[0116] With the first door (21) closed, a portion between the first part (231) and the second part (232) may be positioned closer to the cabinet (10) than the first part (231) and the second part (232).

[0117] The second slot (240) may be formed in a shape that includes a trajectory drawn by the second pin (322) when the first door (21) is rotated.

[0118] The second slot (240) may include a third portion (241) that is in contact with or adjacent to the second pin (322) when the first door (21) is closed.

[0119] The second slot (240) may include a fourth portion (242) that is in contact with or adjacent to the second pin (322) when the first door (21) is opened to the maximum opening angle.

[0120] The third part (241) may be positioned closer to the front (21a) of the first door (21) than the fourth part (242).

[0121] The first part (231) may be positioned closer to the first side (21c) than the third part (241). When the first door (21) is closed, the fourth part (242) may be positioned closer to the first side (21c) than the second part (232).

[0122] Due to the difference in position between the first pin (321) and the second pin (322), the shapes of the first slot (230) and the second slot (240) may be different from each other.

[0123] The first slot (230) may include a curve. The second slot (240) may include a curve.

[0124] The length of the first slot (230) may be different from the length of the second slot (240). For example, the length of the second slot (240) may be greater than the length of the first slot (230).

[0125] The first slot (230) may include a portion whose curvature is variable in the longitudinal direction. The second slot (240) may include a portion whose curvature is variable in the longitudinal direction.

[0126] The curvature of at least a portion of the first slot (230) may be different from the curvature of the second slot (240).

[0127] As another example, although the pin unit is formed in the hinge body and the pin slot is formed in the first door as an example, it is also possible that the pin unit is provided in the door and the pin slot for receiving the pin unit is provided in the hinge body. For example, the pin unit provided in the door may include a first pin and a second pin. The pin slot provided in the door hinge may include a first slot through which the first pin passes and a second slot through which the second pin passes.

[0128] Referring to (a) and (b) of FIG. 8, the first pin (P1) and the second pin (P2) have the same center of rotation, and when the first pin (P1) and the second pin (P2) move, the center of rotation also moves.

[0129] In a state where the first pin (P1) and the second pin (P2) are accommodated in the first slot and the second slot, respectively, the first pin (P1) and the second pin (P2) can move, or in a state where the first pin (P1) and the second pin (P2) are stationary, the first slot and the second slot can move.

[0130] In both cases, from the perspective of the relative movement of the two pins (P1, P2) and the first and second slots, the two pins (P1, P2) can be described as moving using the same rotational center point. The movement path of the same rotational center point can be the movement path of the virtual rotational center of the door (L1 to L3). At this time, the movement path can vary depending on the diameter of the pins, the distance between the two pins, the relative position between the two pins, etc.

[0131] In the present embodiment, the first slot (230) and the second slot (240) may be designed to include a portion that is identical to a trajectory created by a point on a circle when the circle rolls, such as a cycloid trajectory, or may be designed to include a portion that is similar to the trajectory.

[0132] The shape of the first slot (230) and the second slot (240) may vary depending on the diameter of the pin, the distance between the two pins, the relative position between the two pins, the distance between the same rotation center point and the pins (the rotation radius of the pin), etc.

[0133] During the opening process of the first door (21), the rotation center of the first door (21) may move. The trajectory (or movement path) drawn by the rotation center of the door may include a curve. Alternatively, the trajectory drawn by the rotation center of the door may include a straight line.

[0134] Alternatively, the trajectory drawn by the rotation center of the door may include straight lines and curves. Alternatively, the trajectory drawn by the rotation center of the door may include a plurality of straight lines and one or more curves. Alternatively, the trajectory drawn by the rotation center of the door may include a plurality of curves and one or more curves.

[0135] For example, referring to (b) of FIG. 8, the movement paths (L1, L2, L3) may sequentially include a first path (L1), a second path (L2), and a third path (L2). Although not limited, when the first path (L1), the second path (L2), and the third path (L2) each include a curve, the curvature of the second path (L2) may be greater than the curvature of the first path (L1). The curvature of the first path (L1) may be greater than the curvature of the third path (L3).

[0136] FIGS. 9 and 10 are drawings schematically showing the relative positions of the pin unit and the pin slot and the movement path of the center of rotation according to the relative movement of the first member having the pin unit and the second member having the pin slot.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the first member (50) may include a first slot (S1) and a second pin (S2), and the second member (60) may include a first pin (P1) and a second pin (P2). During the relative movement of the first member (50) and the second member (60), the first pin (P1) and the second pin (P2) may move along the same rotational center point.

[0138] The first member (50) is one of the first door (21) and the hinge body (310, 410), and the second member (60) is the other of the first door (21) and the hinge body (310, 410).

[0139] Depending on which part is to be moved, the positions of the first pin (P1) and the second pin (P2) may change, and accordingly, the shape or length of the first slot (S1) and the second slot (S2) may change.

[0140] Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the movement trajectories of multiple points of the first door and the change in distance between the first point and the first pin during the opening process of the first door.

[0141] FIG. 12 (a) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot when the first door according to the present embodiment is closed, and FIG. 12 (b) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot when the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by a first angle.

[0142] FIG. 12(c) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot in a state where the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by a second angle greater than the first angle, and FIG. 12(d) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot in a state where the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by a third angle greater than the second angle.

[0143] FIG. 13 (a) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot in a state where the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by a fourth angle greater than the third angle, and FIG. 13 (b) is a drawing showing the positional relationship between the first pin unit and the first pin slot in a state where the first door according to the present embodiment is opened by the maximum opening angle.

[0144] It is to be noted that the numbers and angles shown in the drawing of Fig. 11 are exemplary and that the present invention is not limited to the numbers or angles.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 7, FIG. 11 to FIG. 13, the first door (21) can be rotated in one direction to open the first door (21) when the first door (21) is closed.

[0146] During the rotation process of the first door (21), the first slot (230) and the second slot (240) move with respect to the first pin (321) and the second pin (322), so that the relative positions of each pin (321, 322) and each slot (230, 240) can be changed.

[0147] When the first door (21) is closed, the first pin (321) can contact the first part (231), for example, and the second pin (322) can contact the third part (241).

[0148] In the process of rotating the first door (21) in one direction to open the first door (21), the first pin (321) may be spaced apart from the first part (231), and the second pin (322) may be spaced apart from the third part (241).

[0149] When the first door (21) starts to open while the first door (21) is closed, the first door (21) can be rotated around the first rotation center (C1).

[0150] In this specification, the rotation center of the first door (21) may be a virtual rotation center of the first door (21).

[0151] The above first rotation center (C1) can be located at the first door (21).

[0152] The first rotation center (C1) may be positioned further from the front surface (10a) of the cabinet (10) than the first pin (321) and the second pin (322).

[0153] The above first rotation center (C1) may be positioned closer to the first pin (321) than to the second pin (322).

[0154] The above first pin (321) may be positioned closer to the first side surface (21c) than the first rotation center (C1).

[0155] The first rotation center (C1) may be positioned closer to the first side surface (21c) than the second pin (322).

[0156] The above first rotation center (C1) may be positioned closer to the third part (241) than to the fourth part (242).

[0157] Referring to (b) of Fig. 12, when the first door (21) is rotated by a first angle, the first door (21) can be rotated based on a second rotation center (C2). That is, the rotation center of the first door (21) can move in the process of opening the first door (21) by the first angle. The second rotation center (C2) can be located at the first door (21).

[0158] The second rotation center (C2) may be positioned further from the front surface (10a) of the cabinet (10) than the first rotation center (C1).

[0159] The second rotation center (C2) may be positioned further from the front surface (10a) of the cabinet (10) than the first pin (321) and the second pin (322).

[0160] The path along which the first rotation center (C1) moves to the position of the second rotation center (C2) may include a straight line or a curve.

[0161] The first path along which the first rotation center (C1) moves to the position of the second rotation center (C2) may include a +Y-axis direction movement path. Alternatively, the first path may include a +Y-axis direction movement path and a -X-axis direction movement path.

[0162] Alternatively, the first path may include a +X-axis direction path and a +Y-axis direction movement path. Alternatively, the first path may include a +X-axis direction path, a +Y-axis direction movement path, and a -X-axis direction path.

[0163] Referring to (c) of FIG. 12, when the first door (21) is rotated by the second angle, the first door (21) can be rotated based on the third rotation center (C3). That is, the rotation center of the first door (21) can move in the process of opening the first door (21) by the second angle. The third rotation center (C3) can be located at the first door (21).

[0164] The third rotation center (C3) may be positioned further from the front (10a) of the cabinet (10) than the second rotation center (C2).

[0165] The third rotation center (C3) may be positioned further from the front surface (10a) of the cabinet (10) than the first pin (321) and the second pin (322).

[0166] Among the two side surfaces of the cabinet (10), the part positioned adjacent to the first pin unit (320) is referred to as the first side surface (10c), and the line extending in the +Y-axis direction while passing through the first side surface (10c) can be referred to as a virtual line (A1).

[0167] The distance between the third rotation center (C3) and the virtual line (A1) may be equal to or greater than the distance between the first pin (321) and the virtual line (A1).

[0168] The distance between the third rotation center (C3) and the virtual line (A1) may be greater than the distance between the second rotation center (C2) and the virtual line (A1).

[0169] Referring to (d) of FIG. 12, when the first door (21) is rotated by a third angle, the first door (21) can be rotated based on a fourth rotation center (C4). That is, the rotation center of the first door (21) can move in the process of opening the first door (21) by the third angle. The fourth rotation center (C4) can be located at the first door (21).

[0170] The distance between the fourth rotation center (C4) and the front surface (10a) of the cabinet (10) may be equal to or smaller than the distance between the third rotation center (C3) and the front surface (10a) of the cabinet (10).

[0171] The fourth rotation center (C4) may be positioned closer to the virtual line (A1) than the first pin (321).

[0172] The distance between the fourth rotation center (C4) and the virtual line (A1) may be greater than the distance between the third rotation center (C3) and the virtual line (A1).

[0173] Referring to (a) of Fig. 13, when the first door (21) is rotated by the fourth angle, the first door (21) can be rotated based on the fifth rotation center (C5). That is, the rotation center of the first door (21) can move in the process of opening the first door (21) by the fourth angle. The fifth rotation center (C5) can be located at the first door (21).

[0174] The fifth rotation center (C5) may be positioned closer to the front (10a) of the cabinet (10) than the fourth rotation center (C4).

[0175] The distance between the fifth rotation center (C5) and the virtual line (A1) may be greater than the distance between the fourth rotation center (C4) and the virtual line (A1).

[0176] The fifth rotation center (C5) may be positioned closer to the virtual line (A1) than the first pin (321).

[0177] Referring to (b) of Fig. 13, immediately before the first door (21) is opened to the maximum opening angle, the first door (21) can be rotated about a sixth rotation center (C6). The sixth rotation center (C6) can be located at the first door (21).

[0178] The sixth rotation center (C6) may be positioned closer to the front (10a) of the cabinet (10) than the fifth rotation center (C5).

[0179] When the first door (21) is opened to the maximum opening angle, the first pin (321) can come into contact with the second part (232), and the second pin (322) can come into contact with the fourth part (242).

[0180] When the first door (21) is opened to the maximum opening angle, the third part (241) can be positioned closer to the virtual line (A1) than the first part (231).

[0181] In the process of opening the first door (21), the trajectory of the first point (A) where the front (21a) and the first side (21c) of the first door (21) meet, the trajectory of the second point (B) where the rear (21b) and the second side (21c) of the first door (21) meet, and the trajectory of the center of rotation of the first door (21) are as follows.

[0182] In the present embodiment, the rotation center of the first door (21) can be changed by varying the relative positions of the pin unit and the pin slot.

[0183] The trajectory of the above first point (A) may include a trajectory moving in a direction closer to the cabinet (10) (-Y-axis direction trajectory).

[0184] The trajectory of the first point (A) may include a first trajectory moving in a direction closer to the first side (21c) (-X-axis direction trajectory). The trajectory of the first point (A) may include a second trajectory moving in a direction away from the first side (21c) (+X-axis direction trajectory).

[0185] The length of the second trajectory may be greater than the length of the first trajectory.

[0186] The trajectory of the second point (B) may include a trajectory moving away from the first side (21c) (+X-axis direction trajectory).

[0187] The trajectory of the second point (B) may include a third trajectory moving in a direction closer to the cabinet (10) (-Y-axis direction trajectory). The trajectory of the second point (B) may include a fourth trajectory moving in a direction away from the cabinet (10) (+Y-axis direction trajectory).

[0188] The length of the fourth trajectory may be greater than the length of the third trajectory.

[0189] The distance between the first point (A) and the first pin (321) may be reduced in at least a portion of the entire open section of the first door (21).

[0190] The distance between the center of rotation of the first door (21) and the center of the first pin (321) can be increased in at least a portion of the entire opening section of the first door (21).

[0191] The distance between the center of rotation of the first door (21) and the center of the second pin (322) can be increased in at least a portion of the entire opening section of the first door (21).

[0192] The center of rotation of the first door (21) can move away from the cabinet (10) in at least a portion of the entire opening section of the first door (21).

[0193] In some sections of the entire open section of the first door (21), the center of rotation of the first door (21) may move in a direction away from the cabinet (10). In other sections after the above-mentioned section, the center of rotation of the first door (21) may move in a direction closer to the cabinet (10).

[0194] The center of rotation of the first door (21) can move in a direction closer to the virtual line (A1) in at least a part of the entire open section of the first door (21).

[0195] The trajectory of the rotation center of the first door (21) may include a curve. When the trajectory of the rotation center includes a curve, the first door (21) can rotate smoothly without rattling during the rotation process of the first door (21).

[0196] According to this embodiment, since the first door (21) is opened as the center of rotation of the first door (21) moves, there is an advantage in that the opening angle of the first door (21) increases.

[0197] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing the left door and the right door of the present embodiment open with the distance between them at a minimum.

[0198] Fig. 15 is a drawing showing the left door and the right door open with the distance between the filler and the right door of the present embodiment at a minimum.

[0199] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, when looking at the door of the refrigerator (1) from the front of the refrigerator (1), the first door (21) may include, for example, a left door (21a) and a right door (21b). Each of the left door (21a) and the right door (21b) may include a gasket (213) to prevent cold air leakage.

[0200] One of the left door (21a) and the right door (21b) may be provided with a pillar (214) to prevent cold air from leaking between the left door (21a) and the right door (21b) when the left door (21a) and the right door (21b) are closed.

[0201] For example, the filler (214) may be provided on the left door (21a).

[0202] In the present embodiment, the first hinge mechanism (30) and the second hinge mechanism (40) are designed to prevent interference with each other during the opening process of the left door (21a) and the right door (21b).

[0203] For example, in the process of opening the left door (21a) and the right door (21b) simultaneously, the minimum gap (G1) between the left door (21a) and the right door (21b) is greater than 0.

[0204] In the process of opening the left door (21a) and the right door (21b) simultaneously, the minimum gap (G2) between the filler (214) and the right door (21b) is greater than 0. At this time, G1 may be greater than G2.

[0205] Fig. 16 is a drawing showing a state in which the distance between the first door and the cabinet is at a minimum, and Fig. 17 is a drawing showing the position of the first door and the cabinet when the first door is opened to the maximum opening angle.

[0206] Referring to Fig. 16, during the opening process of the first door (21), the minimum gap (G3) between the first door (21) and the furniture (P) may be greater than 0. At this time, G3 may be smaller than G1 and G2.

[0207] Referring to Fig. 17, when the first door (21) is opened to the maximum opening angle, the minimum gap (G4) between the first door (21) and the furniture (P) may be greater than 0. At this time, G4 may be greater than G3.

[0208] Figure 18 is a drawing showing the drawer being pulled out from the storage space with the first door open to the maximum opening angle.

[0209] Referring to Fig. 18, a drawer (110) may be provided in the storage space so as to be removable. The drawer (110) may be provided in the refrigerator (11), the freezer (12), or each of the refrigerator (11) and the freezer (12).

[0210] When the first door (21) is opened to the maximum opening angle, the drawer (110) can be withdrawn from the storage space without interference with the first door (21).

[0211] That is, when the first door (21) is opened to the maximum opening angle, the minimum gap (G5) between the first door (21) (e.g., gasket) and the drawer (110) is greater than 0.

[0212] G5 can be larger than G3.

[0213] According to this embodiment, since the center of rotation of the first door (21) can move away from one side of the furniture (P), interference of the first door (21) with the surrounding structure can be prevented during the door opening process.

[0214] Additionally, interference between the left door and the right door can be prevented during the rotation process of each.

[0215] Additionally, the filler can be prevented from interfering with the adjacent door during the opening process of each of the left and right doors.

[0216] Additionally, the drawer of the storage space can be pulled out without interference with the door when the door is opened to the maximum opening angle.

Claims

1. Cabinet forming a storage room; A door for opening and closing the above storage room; and including a hinge mechanism that rotatably connects the door to the cabinet; The above hinge mechanism, Pin unit and, including a pin slot in which the above pin unit is accommodated; The pin unit includes a first pin and a second pin which are spaced apart from each other, The pin slot includes a first slot in which the first pin is received, and a second slot in which the second pin is received, A refrigerator in which the center of rotation of the door moves during the opening process of the door by varying the relative positions of the pin unit and the pin slot.

2. In paragraph 1, The above hinge mechanism further includes a hinge body installed in the cabinet, The above pin unit extends from the hinge body, The above pin slot is provided in the refrigerator door.

3. In paragraph 2, A refrigerator further comprising a guide member that forms the pin slot and is coupled to the door.

4. In paragraph 1, The above hinge mechanism further includes a hinge body installed in the cabinet, The above pin unit is provided on the door, The above pin slot is formed in the hinge body of the refrigerator.

5. In paragraph 1, The first slot includes a portion having a variable curvature in the longitudinal direction, A refrigerator wherein the second slot includes a portion having a variable curvature in the longitudinal direction.

6. In paragraph 1, The first slot above is, A first portion that contacts or is adjacent to the first pin when the door is closed; a second portion that contacts or is adjacent to the first pin when the door is opened to the maximum opening angle; A refrigerator wherein the first portion is positioned closer to the second slot than the second portion when the door is closed.

7. In paragraph 6, With the above door closed, A refrigerator wherein a portion between the first portion and the second portion is positioned closer to the cabinet than the first portion and the second portion.

8. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the first slot and the second slot are formed to include a portion formed to be identical to a trajectory created by a point on a circle when the circle rolls, such as a cycloid trajectory, or to include a portion similar to the trajectory.

9. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the trajectory of the center of rotation of the above door includes a curve.

10. In paragraph 1, When the point where the front of the door and the first side adjacent to the hinge mechanism among both sides of the door meet is called the first point, A refrigerator wherein the distance between the first point and the first pin is reduced during at least a portion of the entire opening section of the door.

11. In paragraph 1, In at least a portion of the entire opening section of the above door, A refrigerator in which the center of rotation of the above door moves away from the above cabinet.

12. In paragraph 1, In at least a portion of the entire opening section of the above door, A refrigerator in which the center of rotation of the above door moves in a direction closer to the above cabinet.

13. In paragraph 1, In some sections of the entire opening section of the door, the center of rotation of the door moves away from the cabinet, A refrigerator in which, in some other section after the above section, the center of rotation of the door moves away from the cabinet.

14. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the distance between the center of rotation of the door and the first pin increases during at least a portion of the entire opening range of the door.

15. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the distance between the center of rotation of the door and the second pin increases during at least a portion of the entire opening range of the door.

16. In paragraph 1, Among the two side surfaces of the above cabinet, the part located adjacent to the pin unit is called the first side surface. A refrigerator in which, based on an imaginary line extending in a direction away from the cabinet while passing through the first side portion, the center of rotation of the door moves in a direction closer to the imaginary line during at least a portion of the entire open section of the door.

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