Refrigerator

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a cabinet comprising a storage chamber; a first door which opens and closes the storage chamber and comprises an opening; a second door which opens and closes the opening and is rotatable with respect to the first door; a locking device for putting the first door and the second door in a locked state or an unlocked state while the second door is closed; and a door opening device for automatically opening the second door, wherein the door opening device, when in operation, moves the locking device to an unlocking position and then opens the second door.

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 storage room is surrounded by an insulating wall, so that the interior 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 stronger the sealing force of this gasket, the greater the effect of preventing cold air leakage.

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

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

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

[0008] The refrigerator of the prior art 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] The above door may include an inner door that is in close contact with the front of the cabinet, and an outer door that is placed 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 including a structure capable of automatically opening a second door located outside a door comprising a first door and a second door, while allowing manual opening of the second door.

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

[0016] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet forming a storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a door that opens and closes at least a portion of the storage compartment. The door may include a first door having an opening. The first door may open and close at least a portion of the storage compartment.

[0017] The above door may further include a second door that opens and closes the opening and is rotatable relative to the first door.

[0018] The refrigerator may further include a locking device that allows the first door and the second door to be locked or unlocked when the second door is closed. To allow the first door and the second door to be locked or unlocked, the locking device may be moved from a locked position to an unlocked position.

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

[0020] When the door opening device is operated, the door opening device can open the second door after moving the lock device to the unlocked position.

[0021] In the non-operational state of the door opening device, the locking device can be manually moved to the unlocked position by the user's operation.

[0022] The above door opening device and the above locking device may be provided on the second door.

[0023] The door opening device may include a driving unit. The door opening device may further include a first moving member that receives power from the driving unit. The door opening device may further include a door opening unit.

[0024] When the driving unit is operated to open the second door, the first movable member can move in a first direction. During the process of the first movable member moving in the first direction, the first movable member can operate the locking device.

[0025] The door opening device may further include a second moving member that transmits the moving force of the first moving member to the locking device.

[0026] When the first movable member moves in the first direction, the second movable member can move in a curved direction intersecting the first direction.

[0027] The locking device may be operated when the first movable member is moved a first distance from the first position, which is the initial position. The door opening unit may be started to operate when the first movable member is moved a second distance from the first position. The second distance may be greater than the first distance.

[0028] When the first movable member is moved from the first position by a third distance, the door opening portion can be moved to the door opening position. The third distance may be greater than the second distance.

[0029] The door opening unit may include a pusher that operates by receiving the moving force of the first moving member to pressurize the first door.

[0030] The door opening portion may further include a first transmission portion movable by the first movable member. The door opening portion may further include a second transmission portion movable by the first transmission portion. The second transmission portion may be rotatably connected to the first transmission portion.

[0031] The pusher may be connected to the second transmission unit. The pusher may be rotatably connected to the second transmission unit.

[0032] The first transmission unit can move linearly. The second transmission unit and the pusher can move rotationally.

[0033] The locking device may be operated when the first movable member is moved a first distance from the first position, which is the initial position. When the first movable member is moved a second distance or more from the first position, the moving force of the first movable member may be transmitted to the first transmission unit.

[0034] The door opening unit may include a first magnetic unit provided on the first door. The door opening unit may further include a second magnetic unit provided on the second door. The second magnetic unit may be moved together with the first moving member.

[0035] The first magnet unit may include a first magnet having a first pole and a second magnet having a second pole opposite to the first pole. The second magnet unit may include a third magnet having the first pole and a fourth magnet having the second pole.

[0036] To open the second door, the third magnet can move in a direction closer to the first magnet.

[0037] When the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet may be arranged in the Y-axis direction, which is the arrangement direction of the first door and the second door. The third magnet and the fourth magnet may be arranged in the Y-axis direction. The third magnet may be positioned closer to the first magnet than the fourth magnet.

[0038] When the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet may be arranged in an X-axis direction intersecting the arrangement direction of the first door and the second door. The third magnet and the fourth magnet may be arranged in the X-axis direction. The fourth magnet may be positioned closer to the first magnet than the third magnet.

[0039] The refrigerator may further include a sensor unit that detects an input of an opening command for the second door, and a control unit that controls the door opening device.

[0040] The control unit can control the door opening device so that the first door and the second door are unlocked and the second door is opened when an input of an opening command for the second door is detected from the sensor unit.

[0041] A refrigerator according to another aspect may include a cabinet having a storage compartment; and a door for opening and closing at least a portion of the storage compartment.

[0042] The door may include a first door rotatably connected to the cabinet; a second door rotatable relative to the first door; the door may include a locking device that locks or unlocks the first door and the second door when the second door is closed; and a door opening device for automatically opening the second door.

[0043] In the locked position of the above locking device, the locking device is manually operable by the user and automatically operable by the door opening device.

[0044] The storage compartment may include a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment located below the refrigerator compartment. The first door may open and close the refrigerator compartment.

[0045] The door opening device and the locking device may be located on the lower side of the second door.

[0046] The above door opening device may include a door opening portion. The operating timing of the locking device and the operating timing of the door opening portion may be set differently.

[0047] The door opening device may include a driving unit and a first moving member that receives power from the driving unit. The door opening unit may be connected to the first moving member.

[0048] When the above driving unit is operated, the first moving member can operate the door opening unit after the locking device is moved to the unlocked position by the first moving member.

[0049] 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.

[0050] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that the second door, which is located on the outside of the door consisting of the first door and the second door, can be manually opened according to the user's needs.

[0051] According to one embodiment, when the first door is opened, the coupled state of the first door and the second door is maintained, so that the phenomenon of the second door being opened unintentionally can be prevented.

[0052] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that the door opening device can be installed and operated within a limited thickness range of the second door by the arrangement of the drive unit, the transmission unit, and the moving members.

[0053] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a second door opened in a refrigerator door according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] 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.

[0056] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the first door and the second door with the locking device positioned in the locked position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a lower portion of a first door according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a door opening device installed on a second door according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a door opening device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 8 (a) is a perspective view of a first moving member according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from one side, and FIG. 8 (b) is a perspective view of a first moving member according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the other side.

[0061] Fig. 9 (a) is a perspective view of a first transmission unit according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from one side, and Fig. 9 (b) is a perspective view of a first transmission unit according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the other side.

[0062] Fig. 10 (a) is a drawing showing the position of the contact portion of the second extension portion and the first transmission portion at the first position of the first movable member, and Fig. 10 (b) is a drawing showing a state in which the second portion of the first movable member comes into contact with the contact protrusion of the first transmission portion during the opening process of the second door.

[0063] FIG. 11 (a) is a drawing of a door opening portion according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from one side, and FIG. 11 (b) is a perspective view showing a state in which a pusher and a second transmission portion are connected according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Fig. 12 (a) is a perspective view of a second moving member according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 12 (b) is a perspective view of a locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Fig. 13 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of a door opening device and a locking device step by step according to the movement distance of the first movable member.

[0066] Figures 15 (a) and 16 (a) are drawings showing a door opening device and a locking device at a first position of the first movable member.

[0067] Figures 15 (b) and 16 (b) are drawings showing a door opening device and a locking device when the first moving member has moved a second distance.

[0068] Figure 17 is a drawing showing the door opening device and locking device when the first moving member has moved to the second position.

[0069] Figure 18 is a drawing showing the state in which the opening of the second door is completed.

[0070] FIG. 19 (a) is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a first position of a first movable member according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19 (b) is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a second position of the first movable member.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] In this specification, the front of the second door is a surface forming the front exterior of the refrigerator door, and the rear is a surface facing the first door.

[0074] 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.

[0075] FIG. 1 is a perspective 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.

[0076] 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 and a refrigerator door for opening and closing the storage compartment.

[0077] 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).

[0078] The above refrigerator 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).

[0079] 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).

[0080] 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.

[0081] It should be noted that there are no limitations to the number or arrangement of the refrigerator doors (20) and the freezer doors (25) in this specification. For example, the storage compartment may include only a refrigerator compartment. Alternatively, a single refrigerator door (20) may open and close the refrigerator compartment.

[0082] 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).

[0083] 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).

[0084] 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).

[0085] The first door (30) may include an opening (32). The second door (40) may open and close the opening (32). The opening (32) may be connected to the refrigerator compartment (11).

[0086] The second door (40) may cover the opening (32) at the front of the first door (30). Alternatively, it is also possible for at least a portion of the second door (40) to be accommodated in the opening (32) and cover the opening (32).

[0087] The above first door (30) may be called an inner door or main door, and the above second door (40) may be called an outer door or sub door.

[0088] The first door (30) may include one or more baskets (33, 34). The baskets (33, 34) may be mounted on the rear surface of the first door (30) or on the surface forming the opening (32).

[0089] 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).

[0090] The second door (40) may include a panel assembly. The panel assembly may include one or more panels formed of a glass material or a material that allows light transmission. When the lighting unit provided in the refrigerator is turned on by the panel assembly, the storage compartment or the interior of the first door (30) can be checked while the second door (40) is closed.

[0091] Meanwhile, the refrigerator compartment (11) may be equipped with one or more shelves (12). The refrigerator compartment (11) may be equipped with one or more drawers (13) that can be slidably pulled out. The freezer compartment (15) may be equipped with one or more drawers (16) that can be slidably pulled out. Of course, the shelves (12) or drawers (13, 16) are optional and may be omitted.

[0092] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a first door and a second door with a locking device in a locked position according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a lower portion of the first door according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 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.

[0094] The second door (40) can be opened while the first door (30) is closed. 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 with respect to the first door (30).

[0095] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the refrigerator door (20) may further include a locking device (70) that allows the first door (30) and the second door (40) to remain locked or unlocked.

[0096] The above locking device (70) can move from a locked position to an unlocked position. The above locking device (70) can return from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0097] The above locking device (70) can be operated manually by a user. Additionally, the locking device (70) can be automatically operated by a door opening device to be described later.

[0098] For example, when manual opening of the second door (40) is required, the user can operate the locking device (70) to move the locking device (70) from a locked position to an unlocked position. When the locking device (70) moves to the unlocked position, the second door (40) and the first door (30) can be in an unlocked state.

[0099] The locking device (70) may be movably provided on the second door (40). The second door (40) may be provided with a handle (45). The handle (45) may be provided in a recessed form on one side of the second door (40). For example, the handle (45) may be provided on the lower side of the second door (40).

[0100] The locking device (70) may be provided on the lower side of the second door (40). The locking device (70) may be located on the outside of the handle (45). Alternatively, the locking device (70) may be located within a sunken space formed by the handle (45).

[0101] In the locked position of the above locking device (70), the first door (30) and the second door (40) can be locked. In this state, when the user pulls the handle (45), the first door (30) and the second door (40) can be rotated together.

[0102] When the user pulls the handle (45) while the second door (40) and the first door (30) are unlocked, the second door (40) can be rotated while the first door (30) is closed.

[0103] The first door (30) may be provided with a catch (310) for engaging the locking device (70). The catch (310) may be formed integrally with a member forming the exterior of the first door (30) or may be coupled to the member. The catch (310) may be positioned, for example, on the lower side of the first door (30).

[0104] The above-mentioned catch (310) may form a space (312) for receiving a portion of the locking device (70). The above-mentioned catch (310) may include a catch wall (314) for catching a portion of the locking device (70) located in the space (312). The front surface of the catch wall (314) may include an inclined surface. When the second door (40) is opened and then closed, the locking device (70) can easily move to the space (312) by moving along the inclined surface.

[0105] Fig. 6 is a drawing showing a door opening device installed on a second door according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a door opening device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 illustrates, as an example, a state in which the case of the door opening device has been removed.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the door opening device (60) of the present embodiment can be installed on the second door (40). The door opening device (60) can operate to automatically open the second door (40). While the door opening device (60) is operating, the locking device (70) can be moved to an unlocked position by the door opening device (60).

[0107] In order for the door opening device (60) to operate the locking device (70), the door opening device (60) may be positioned adjacent to the locking device (70). For example, it may be installed on the lower side of the second door (40).

[0108] In this embodiment, the locking device (70) may be a separate component from the door opening device (60) or may be a component constituting the door opening device (60).

[0109] The second door (40) may further include a sensor unit (102). The sensor unit (102) may detect an input of a door opening command for opening the second door (40). The sensor unit (102) may be a touch sensor that detects a user's touch on the front of the second door (40), or a knock sensor that detects multiple knocks applied to the front of the second door (40). The sensor unit (102) may be a capacitance sensor, a sensor that detects vibration, or a sensor that detects sound waves. Alternatively, the sensor unit (102) may include a mechanical switch or a switch that is operated by pressure.

[0110] As another example, the sensor unit (102) may be provided in the cabinet (10), in the first door (30), or in the freezer door (25).

[0111] The door opening device (60) may further include a driving unit (620). The driving unit may include a motor. For example, the motor may be capable of rotating in both directions.

[0112] The door opening device (60) may further include a case (610). The case (610) may be installed on the second door (40). The case (610) may support components constituting the door opening device (60) or fix the positions of the components.

[0113] For example, the driving unit (620) may be installed in the case (610).

[0114] The door opening device (60) may further include a transmission unit (630) that transmits the power of the driving unit (620). The transmission unit (630) may include, for example, a plurality of gears. Each of the plurality of gears may be rotatably supported on the case (610).

[0115] For example, the plurality of gears may include a driving gear (631) connected to the driving unit (620). The plurality of gears may include a driven gear (633).

[0116] The above-described driven gear (633) may be directly connected to the driving gear (631) or may be connected to the driving gear (631) by one or more intermediate gears (632). It should be noted that there is no limitation on the number of gears in the present invention.

[0117] The above door opening device (60) may further include a first moving member (640) that receives power from the driving unit (620).

[0118] The first moving member (640) may be connected to the transmission unit (630). The first moving member (640) may be, for example, a rack that moves in a linear manner. The first moving member (640) may be, for example, engaged with the driven gear (633).

[0119] In the automatic opening process of the second door (40), the first moving member (640) can move from the initial position, which is the first position, to the final position, which is the second position.

[0120] After the opening of the second door (40) is completed, the first movable member (640) can return from the second position to the first position.

[0121] The above first moving member (640) can transmit the power of the driving unit (620) to the locking device (70).

[0122] The above door opening device (60) may further include a second moving member (690) that receives the moving force of the first moving member (640).

[0123] The second moving member (640) can transmit the power of the driving unit (620) to the locking device (70) while moving relative to the first moving member (690). The second moving member (690) can be connected to the locking device (70).

[0124] In the present embodiment, the second movable member (690) can move in a second direction intersecting the first direction while the first movable member (640) moves in the first direction. For example, the second movable member (690) can move in a curved or rotational motion, and accordingly, the locking device (70) can be rotated.

[0125] The second door (40) may be provided with a supporter (750) that rotatably supports the locking device (70). The supporter (750) may be a separate component from the case (610) or may be formed integrally with the case (610).

[0126] In the present embodiment, the second movable member (690) may be formed integrally with or combined with the locking device (70). When the second movable member (690) is formed integrally with the locking device (70), the door opening device (60) may be understood to include only the first movable member (640).

[0127] The door opening device (60) may further include a door opening unit for automatically opening the second door (40). The first moving member (640) may transmit the power of the driving unit (620) to the door opening unit.

[0128] In this embodiment, when the second door (40) and the first door (30) are in a locked state, the second door (40) cannot be opened even if the door opening unit is operated. When the second door (40) and the first door (30) are in an unlocked state, the second door (40) can be opened by the door opening unit.

[0129] In this embodiment, the timing of transmitting driving force to the locking device (70) and the timing of transmitting driving force to the door opening portion may be set differently so that the door opening portion operates after the locking device (70) is moved to the unlocked position.

[0130] That is, by the operation of the driving unit (620), the driving force can be first transmitted to the locking device (70) during the process of moving the first moving member (640), and then the driving force can be transmitted to the door opening unit.

[0131] The above door opening part may include a pusher (670). The pusher (670) may protrude from the second door (40) when the driving part (620) is operated to push the first door (30).

[0132] The pusher (670) may be protruded from the second door (40) by, for example, a rotational motion. The pusher (670) may be connected to a pin (681) supported on the case (610). The pusher (670) may rotate together with the pin (681) or may rotate relative to the pin (681). The pin (681) may provide a center of rotation of the pusher (670). Alternatively, the center of rotation of the pusher (670) may be located at the pin (681).

[0133] The door opening portion may further include a first transmission portion (650) that is movable by the first movable member (640). The first transmission portion (650) may be located on one side of the first movable member (640). For example, the first transmission portion (650) may be located on the lower side of the first movable member (640). As the first transmission portion (650) and the first movable member (640) are arranged in the vertical direction, an increase in the thickness of the second door (40) may be prevented.

[0134] The door opening portion may further include a second transmission portion (660) that is movable by the first transmission portion (650). At least a portion of the second transmission portion (660) may be positioned, for example, between the first transmission portion (650) and the first moving member (640). By arranging the first transmission portion (650), the second transmission portion (660), and the first moving member (640), the thickness of the second door (40) may be prevented from increasing.

[0135] The above pusher (670) can be operated by the second transmission unit (660). At least a portion of the pusher (670) can be positioned between the first moving member (640) and the second transmission unit (660).

[0136] When the first moving member (640), pusher (670), second transmission unit (660) and first transmission unit (650) are arranged in an up-down direction, for example, there is an advantage in that the door opening device (60) can be made compact, and an increase in the thickness of the second door (40) can be prevented.

[0137] FIG. 8 (a) is a perspective view of a first moving member according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from one side, and FIG. 8 (b) is a perspective view of a first moving member according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the other side.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the first moving member (640) according to the present embodiment may include a body (641). The body (641) may be formed in the form of a thin plate, for example.

[0139] The first moving member (640) may further include a first extension portion (642) extending from the body (641). The first extension portion (642) may come into contact with the second moving member (690).

[0140] The first extension portion (642) may, for example, protrude from the upper or lower surface of the body (641). The first extension portion (642) may include the first contact surface (642a). The first contact surface (642a) may include an inclined surface.

[0141] The above first moving member (640) can move in the X-axis direction, for example. The X-axis direction can be, for example, the left-right direction of the second door (40). In the present specification, the Y-axis direction can be the arrangement direction of the first door (30) and the second door (40) or the front-back direction of the second door (40).

[0142] The above-mentioned inclined surface may be inclined with respect to the X-axis and Y-axis. For example, the inclined surface may be inclined in a direction away from the second movable member (690) as it gets closer to the first door (30). When the first movable member (640) moves by the inclined surface, the second movable member (690) moves along the inclined surface, thereby allowing the locking device (70) to rotate.

[0143] The first extension portion (642) may further include the second contact surface (642b). The second contact surface (642b) may extend from an end of the first contact surface (624a). The second contact surface (642b) may be formed in a curved shape. The second contact surface (642b) may form a space for accommodating the second moving member (690). After the locking device (70) is moved to the unlocked position, the first moving member (640) may additionally move in the first direction while the second moving member (690) is accommodated in the space.

[0144] The first moving member (640) may further include a rack portion (644) extending from the body (641). The rack portion (644) may, for example, protrude from the upper or lower surface of the body (641). The rack portion (644) may be spaced apart from the first extension portion (642) in the X-axis direction.

[0145] A gear (644a) may be formed on one surface of the rack portion (644). For example, the gear (644a) may be formed on the lower surface of the rack portion (644). The gear (644a) may mesh with the driven gear (633).

[0146] A guide portion (644b) may be provided on the other surface of the rack portion (644) to guide the movement of the first moving member (640). The guide portion (644b) may interact with a guide portion provided in the case (610), for example. The guide portion (644b) may include a protruding rib or a groove.

[0147] The first moving member (640) may further include a second extension portion (647). The second extension portion (647) may come into contact with the first transmission portion (650) during the movement of the first moving member (640).

[0148] The second extension portion (646) may, for example, protrude from the upper or lower surface of the body (641). The second extension portion (646) may be positioned closer to the rack portion (644) than the first extension portion (642).

[0149] The protruding length of the above rack portion (644) may be different from the protruding length of the second extension portion (646).

[0150] The second extension portion (646) may include a first portion (646a). The first portion (646a) may extend, for example, in the Y-axis direction.

[0151] The second extension portion (646) may further include a second portion (646b) spaced apart from the first portion (646a). The second portion (646c) may extend in the Y-axis direction.

[0152] The second extension portion (646) may further include a third portion (646c) connecting the first portion (646a) and the second portion (646b). The third portion (646c) may extend in a direction intersecting the first portion (646a) or the second portion (646b). For example, the third portion (646c) may extend in the X-axis direction.

[0153] The second part (646b) may be positioned closer to the rack part (644) than the first part (646a).

[0154] The first part (646a), the second part (646b), and the third part (646c) may form a space (647). A part of the first transmission unit (650) may be positioned in the space (647).

[0155] The second part (646b) may be connected to the rack portion (644) or may be spaced apart from the rack portion (644).

[0156] FIG. 9 (a) is a perspective view of a first transmission unit according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from one side, and FIG. 9 (b) is a perspective view of a first transmission unit according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the other side.

[0157] Fig. 10 (a) is a drawing showing the position of the contact portion of the second extension portion and the first transmission portion at the first position of the first movable member, and Fig. 10 (b) is a drawing showing a state in which the second portion of the first movable member comes into contact with the contact protrusion of the first transmission portion during the opening process of the second door.

[0158] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the first transmission unit (650) may include a body (651). A guide unit (652) may be formed on at least one surface of the body (651).

[0159] The above guide portion (652) may interact with a guide portion provided in the case (610), for example. The above guide portion (652) may include a rib or a groove.

[0160] To ensure stable movement of the first transmission unit (650), guide units (652) may be provided on multiple surfaces. Although not limited thereto, the multiple surfaces may be surfaces facing each other. Alternatively, guide units (see 658 in FIG. 17) may also be provided on surfaces intersecting with the multiple surfaces. Alternatively, guide units (652, 658) may be provided on two intersecting surfaces.

[0161] The first transmission unit (650) may be rotatably connected to the second transmission unit (660), for example. The first transmission unit (650) may be provided with a connection hole (653) for connection with the second transmission unit (660).

[0162] The first transmission unit (650) may further include a contact portion (654) extending from the body (651). The contact portion (654) may be bent from the body (651). For example, the contact portion (654) may be bent upward from one end of the body (651).

[0163] The above contact portion (654) can be in contact with the second extension portion (646). The above contact portion (654) can include a contact protrusion (655) (or a first part). The contact protrusion (655) can be positioned in a space (647) formed by the second extension portion (646).

[0164] The above contact protrusion (655) may extend, for example, in the Y-axis direction. The above contact portion (654) may further include a reinforcing portion (656) (or a second part) extending in a direction intersecting with the above contact protrusion (655).

[0165] The above contact protrusion (655) and the above reinforcement portion (656) may be formed by protruding one surface of the contact portion (654) or by recessing one surface of the contact portion (654).

[0166] The above contact protrusion (655) can substantially contact the second extension portion (646). The above reinforcement portion (656) can be connected to the contact protrusion (655) in terms of reinforcing the strength of the contact protrusion (655). The above reinforcement portion (656) can be in contact with or spaced apart from the second extension portion (646). Accordingly, the position of the above reinforcement portion (656) can be changed or omitted.

[0167] The X-axis direction length of the separation distance or space (647) between the first part (646c) and the second part (646b) of the first moving member (640) may be greater than the width or X-axis direction length of the contact protrusion (655).

[0168] In the first position of the first movable member (640), the second part (646b) of the first movable member (640) can be spaced apart from the contact protrusion (655). The first part (464a) can be in contact with the contact protrusion (655).

[0169] In the process of moving the first moving member (640) to open the second door (40), the second part (646b) can come close to the contact protrusion (655).

[0170] Before the second part (646b) comes into contact with the contact protrusion (655), the moving force of the first moving member (640) is not transmitted to the contact protrusion (655). In a state where the second part (646b) is in contact with the contact protrusion (655), the moving force of the first moving member (640) is transmitted to the contact protrusion (655), so that the first transmission unit (650) can move.

[0171] FIG. 11 (a) is a drawing of a door opening portion according to an embodiment of the present invention viewed from one side, and FIG. 11 (b) is a perspective view showing a state in which a pusher and a second transmission portion are connected according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11, the second transmission unit (660) may be rotatably connected to the first transmission unit (650) by, for example, a first connecting unit (662).

[0173] The first connecting portion (662) may be a pin that is a separate component from the first transmission portion (650) and the second transmission portion (662). A first connecting hole (662a) may be formed in the second transmission portion (660) to which the first connecting portion (662) is connected. Alternatively, the first connecting portion (662) may be formed integrally with the first transmission portion (650) or the second transmission portion (660).

[0174] The second transmission unit (660) may be connected to the body (651) of the first transmission unit (650) on the upper side of the body (651), for example.

[0175] The above pusher (670) can be rotatably connected to the second transmission unit (660) by the second connecting unit (664).

[0176] The second connecting portion (664) may be a pin that is a separate component from the second transmission portion (660) and the pusher (670). A second connecting hole (664a) may be formed in the second transmission portion (660) to which the second connecting portion (664) is connected. The second connecting hole (664b) may be spaced apart from the first connection hole (662a) in the longitudinal direction of the second transmission portion (660).

[0177] Alternatively, the second connecting portion (664) may be formed integrally with the second transmission portion (660) or the pusher (670).

[0178] The above pusher (670) may include a pressing surface (671) that presses the first door (30) during the automatic opening process of the second door (40).

[0179] The pusher (670) may further include a receiving portion (672) for receiving the second transmission portion (660). The receiving portion (672) may be formed, for example, by a recessed surface of one side of the pusher (670).

[0180] At the first position of the first movable member (640), the pusher (670) (or door opening portion) may also be positioned at the initial position. At the second position of the first movable member (640), the pusher (670) (or door opening portion) may be positioned at the door opening position.

[0181] At the initial position of the pusher (670), a part of the second transmission part (660) may be received in the receiving part (672), and another part may be located outside the receiving part (672).

[0182] The area (or volume) of a part of the second transmission unit (660) may be larger than the area (or volume) of another part. Another part of the second transmission unit (660) may be connected to the first transmission unit (650) by the first connecting part (662).

[0183] With the first door (30) and the second door (40) closed, the receiving portion (672) can overlap with the pressing surface (671) in the Y-axis direction. Accordingly, the second transmission portion (660) can be reduced from being exposed to the outside while the pressing surface (671) presses the first door (30).

[0184] The above pusher (670) may further include a pin hole (675) connected to a pin (681) supported on the case (610).

[0185] At the initial position of the pusher (670), the second connecting hole (644a) may be positioned between the pin hole (675) and the first connecting hole (662a). Alternatively, at the initial position of the pusher (670), the second connecting portion (664) may be positioned between the pin (681) and the first connecting portion (662).

[0186] When the first transmission part (650) moves during the opening process of the second door (40), the first connection part (662) and the second connection part (664) can move horizontally. During the opening process of the second door (40), the horizontal movement of the pin (681) with respect to the front of the second door (40) can be restricted.

[0187] FIG. 12(a) is a perspective view of a second moving member according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12(b) is a perspective view of a locking device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 7 and FIG. 12, the second moving member (690) can be arranged in the X-axis direction of the first moving member (640), so that the thickness of the second door (40) can be prevented from increasing.

[0189] The second moving member (690) may include a moving bar (691). The moving bar (691) may be in contact with the first moving member (640). The moving bar (691) may include a contact end (691a). The contact end (691a) may sequentially contact the first contact surface (642a) and the second contact surface (642b).

[0190] The second moving member (690) may include a coupling portion (692) extending from the moving bar (691). The coupling portion (692) may, for example, extend downward from the moving bar (691). The coupling portion (692) may be coupled with the locking device (70).

[0191] The above-mentioned connecting portion (692) may include a connecting hole (693) into which a connecting member is connected.

[0192] The locking device (70) may include a first body (710). The first body (710) may be coupled to the coupling portion (692). The first body (710) may extend in an up-down direction, for example.

[0193] The above locking device (70) may further include a second body (720) extending from the first body (710) in a direction intersecting the first body (710).

[0194] The first body (710) may be provided with a hole (714) into which a shaft (730) is coupled to provide a center of rotation. The shaft (730) may pass through the supporter (750) and be fastened to the hole (714). Alternatively, the shaft (730) may be formed integrally with the first body (710). In either case, the locking device (70) may be rotated about a center of rotation extending in a horizontal direction.

[0195] The second body (720) is positioned on the lower side of the first body (710) and may include a hook (722) for hooking with the catch (310).

[0196] A portion of the lower surface of the second body (720) may be a manipulation surface (724) for the user to manipulate. The manipulation surface (724) may be positioned on the opposite side of the hook (722) with respect to the first body (710). For example, when the manipulation surface (724) is pressed upward, the locking device (70) may be rotated in the unlocking direction.

[0197] Below, the operation of the locking device (70) and door opening device (60) will be described in detail.

[0198] Fig. 13 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of a door opening device and a locking device step by step according to the movement distance of the first movable member.

[0199] FIG. 15 (a) and FIG. 16 (a) are drawings showing a door opening device and a locking device at a first position of a first movable member, FIG. 15 (b) and FIG. 16 (b) are drawings showing a door opening device and a locking device when the first movable member has moved a second distance, FIG. 17 is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device when the first movable member has moved to a second position, and FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a state in which the opening of the second door is completed.

[0200] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 18, the refrigerator of the present embodiment may further include a control unit (100). The control unit (100) may be installed on or separated from the object to be controlled. The control unit (100) may be located inside or outside the object to be controlled.

[0201] For example, the control unit (100) may be provided in the cabinet (10) or in the refrigerator door (20).

[0202] The above control unit (100) can control the driving unit (620). The control unit (100) can be located outside the driving unit (620). The control unit (100) can control the driving unit (620) alone, and can also control other components in the refrigerator other than the driving unit (620).

[0203] [Manual opening of the second door]

[0204] As described above, even if the input of a door opening command is not detected in the sensor unit (102), the user can operate the locking device (70) to manually open the second door (40).

[0205] When the first movable member (640) is positioned at the first position, the locking device (70) can operate independently. Therefore, when the user presses the operating surface (724) of the locking device (70) in one direction (for example, upward), the locking device (70) can be rotated in the unlocking direction, thereby moving the locking device (70) from the locked position to the unlocking position. Then, the engagement between the hook (722) of the locking device (70) and the engaging wall (314) of the first door (30) can be released. In this state, the user can open the second door (40) by rotating the second door (40).

[0206] [Automatic opening of the second door]

[0207] When the first door (30) and the second door (40) are closed and the first door (30) and the second door (40) are locked, a door opening command can be detected by the sensor unit (102) (S1). Then, the control unit (100) can control the driving unit (620) to automatically open the second door (40).

[0208] In the present embodiment, the operation of the driving unit (620) for opening the second door (40) can be performed while the first door (30) is closed. The opening and closing of the first door (30) can be detected by the first door switch (103). The first door switch (103) can be provided in the cabinet (10) or in the first door (30).

[0209] The operation of the driving unit (620) for opening the second door (40) can be performed while the second door (40) is closed. The opening and closing of the second door (40) can be detected by the second door switch (104). The second door switch (104) can be provided on the first door (30) or the second door (40).

[0210] The above control unit (100) can rotate the motor in one direction. When the motor rotates in one direction, the power of the driving unit (620) can be transmitted to the first moving member (640) through the transmission unit (630).

[0211] In the first position of the first movable member (640), the second part (646b) of the first movable member (640) can be spaced apart from the contact protrusion (655). In the process of the first movable member (640) moving in the first direction to open the second door (40), the second part (646b) can come close to the contact protrusion (655).

[0212] Before the second part (646b) comes into contact with the contact protrusion (655), the moving force of the first moving member (640) is not transmitted to the contact protrusion (655).

[0213] In the process of the first moving member (640) moving from the first position to the first direction by a first distance, the locks of the first door (30) and the second door (40) can be released (S2).

[0214] For example, in the process of the first moving member (640) moving from the first position to the first distance, the first contact surface (642a) pushes the contact end (691a) of the second moving member (690), so that the contact end (691a) and the first contact surface (642a) slide relative to each other.

[0215] In the process of the above contact end (691a) sliding with the first contact surface (642a), the second moving member (690) moves in a curved manner, and accordingly, the locking device (70) rotates, so that the first door (30) and the second door (40) can be unlocked.

[0216] When the first moving member (640) moves from the first position by a first distance, the contact end (691a) may be positioned at the boundary between the first contact surface (642a) and the second contact surface (642b) or may come into contact with the second contact surface (642b).

[0217] The second part (646b) can be spaced apart from the contact protrusion (655) while the first moving member (640) moves from the first position by a first distance.

[0218] When the first moving member (640) moves from the first position by a second distance greater than the first distance, the opening of the second door (40) begins.

[0219] For example, when the first moving member (640) moves from the first position by the second distance, the second portion (646b) comes into contact with the contact protrusion (655). In this state, when the first moving member (640) moves further in the first direction, the first transmission part (650) moves together with the first moving member (640).

[0220] In the process of the first transmission unit (650) moving in the first direction, the second transmission unit (660) rotates, and the pusher (670) can rotate in conjunction with this.

[0221] During the process of moving the first transmission unit (650), the distance between the first connection unit (662) and the pin (681) may decrease. On the other hand, during the process of moving the first transmission unit (650), the distance between the first connection unit (662) and the second connection unit (664) and the distance between the second connection unit (664) and the pin (681) may be maintained constant.

[0222] For example, the pusher (610) is positioned at the initial position until the first movable member (640) moves from the first position by the second distance. When the first movable member (640) moves from the first position by a third distance that is greater than the second distance, the opening of the second door (40) is completed (S4).

[0223] When the first moving member (640) moves from the first position by a third distance, the pusher (670) is positioned at the door opening position.

[0224] After the opening of the second door (40) is completed, the motor can be rotated in the other direction so that the first moving member (640) can return to the first position, which is the initial position (S5).

[0225] When the first moving member (640) is moved to the second position, the first part (646a) can be spaced apart from the contact protrusion (655). When the first moving member (640) moves in a third direction opposite to the first direction, the first part (646a) comes into contact with the contact protrusion (655). After the first part (646a) comes into contact with the contact protrusion (655), when the first moving member (640) moves in the third direction, the first transmission part (650) also moves in the third direction. By the third direction movement of the first transmission part (650), the pusher (670) moves to the initial position.

[0226] In one embodiment, there is an advantage in that the second door, which is located on the outside, can be automatically opened in a door comprising a first door and a second door.

[0227] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that the second door, which is located on the outside of the door consisting of the first door and the second door, can be manually opened according to the user's needs.

[0228] In one embodiment, when the first door is opened, the coupled state of the first door and the second door is maintained, so that the phenomenon of the second door being opened unintentionally can be prevented.

[0229] According to one embodiment, there is a section in which the installation and operation of the door opening device are possible within a limited thickness range of the second door by the arrangement of the drive unit, the transmission unit, and the moving members.

[0230] FIG. 19 (a) is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a first position of a first movable member according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19 (b) is a drawing showing a door opening device and a locking device at a second position of the first movable member.

[0231] This embodiment is otherwise identical to the previous embodiment, with the exception of the door opening portion. Therefore, only the distinctive features of this embodiment will be described below.

[0232] In Fig. 19, the locking device is omitted.

[0233] Referring to FIG. 19, the door opening part of the present embodiment may include a first magnet unit (810) provided in the first door (30) and a second magnet unit (820) provided in the second door (40).

[0234] The first magnet unit (810) may be fixed in position in the first door (30). The first magnet unit (810) may include a first magnet (811) having a first pole and a second magnet (812) having a second pole opposite to the first pole. The first pole may be a north pole and the second pole may be a south pole, or vice versa.

[0235] The above first magnet (811) and second magnet (812) may be formed integrally or separately.

[0236] The second magnet unit (820) may be movably installed on the second door (40). For example, the second magnet unit (820) may be movable together with the first moving member (640). The second magnet unit (820) may be directly installed on the first moving member (640) or may be installed on the first moving member (640) while being supported by a bracket (830).

[0237] The second magnet unit (820) may include a third magnet (821) having the first pole and a fourth magnet (822) having the second pole.

[0238] The third magnet (821) and the fourth magnet (822) may be formed integrally or separately.

[0239] The third magnet (821) may have the same polarity as the first magnet (811). The fourth magnet (822) may have the same polarity as the second magnet (812).

[0240] In the first door (30), the first magnet (811) and the second magnet (812) may be arranged in the Y-axis direction. In the second door (40), the third magnet (821) and the fourth magnet (822) may be arranged in the Y-axis direction.

[0241] Alternatively, it is also possible for the first magnet (811) and the second magnet (812) in the first door (30) to be arranged in the X-axis direction. It is also possible for the third magnet (821) and the second magnet (822) in the second door (40) to be arranged in the X-axis direction. In this case, when the second door (40) is closed, the fourth magnet (822) can be positioned adjacent to the first magnet (811). In order to open the second door (40), the fourth magnet (822) can move in a direction closer to the second magnet (812). In order to open the second door (40), the third magnet (821) can move in a direction closer to the first magnet (811).

[0242] Meanwhile, when the second door (40) is closed and the locking device is in the locked position, the first magnet (811) and the third magnet (821) may not overlap in the Y-axis direction.

[0243] When the second door (40) is closed, an attractive force acts between the first magnet unit (810) and the second magnet unit (820) so that the second door (40) can be maintained in a closed state.

[0244] When the first moving member (640) moves in the first direction to open the second door (40), the third magnet (821) can move in a direction closer to the first magnet (811). During the movement of the first moving member (640), the locking device (70) can move from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0245] When the first movable member (640) moves in the first direction, the amount of overlap between the first magnet (811) and the third magnet (821) in the Y-axis direction may increase. After the locking device (70) is moved to the unlocked position, a repulsive force may be applied between the first magnet (811) and the third magnet (821) by further movement of the first movable member (640). The repulsive force may act as a force for automatically opening the second door (40).

[0246] In the present embodiment, the door opening is prevented from being exposed to the outside of the door, so there is an advantage in that the exterior of the door looks neat.

[0247] In addition, in the case of this embodiment, since the second door (40) can be automatically opened using the repulsive force between magnets, there is an advantage in that the structure of the door opening device is simplified.

Claims

1. Cabinet having storage space; A first door having an opening for opening and closing the above storage room; A second door that opens and closes the above opening and is rotatable relative to the first door; A locking device that allows the first door and the second door to be locked or unlocked while the second door is closed; and Including a door opening device for automatically opening the second door; A refrigerator in which, when the door opening device is operated, the door opening device moves the lock device to the unlocked position and then opens the second door.

2. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the locking device can be manually moved to the unlocked position when the door opening device is not in operation.

3. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator wherein the door opening device and the locking device are provided on the second door.

4. In paragraph 1, The above door opening device comprises a driving unit, A first moving member that receives power from the above driving unit, A refrigerator including a door opening portion that receives the moving force of the first moving member.

5. In paragraph 4, When the driving unit operates to open the second door, The above first moving member moves in the first direction, A refrigerator in which the first movable member operates the locking device while the first movable member moves in the first direction.

6. In paragraph 5, Further comprising a second moving member that transmits the moving force of the first moving member to the locking device, A refrigerator in which, when the first movable member moves in the first direction, the second movable member moves in a curved motion in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

7. In paragraph 5, When the first movable member is moved a first distance from the first position, which is the initial position, the locking device operates, When the first moving member moves from the first position by a second distance, the operation of the door opening unit begins. A refrigerator wherein the door opening part is moved to the door opening position when the first movable member is moved a third distance from the first position.

8. In paragraph 4, A refrigerator wherein the door opening part includes a pusher that operates by receiving the moving force of the first moving member to pressurize the first door.

9. In paragraph 8, The above door opening part comprises a first transmission part that can be moved by the first moving member, and Further comprising a second transmission unit rotatably connected to the first transmission unit, A refrigerator wherein the above pusher is rotatably connected to the second transmission unit.

10. In paragraph 9, The above first transmission section moves in a straight line, The above second transmission unit and the pusher are a refrigerator that rotates.

11. In paragraph 9, When the first movable member is moved a first distance from the first position, which is the initial position, the locking device operates, A refrigerator in which, when the first movable member moves from the first position by a second distance or more, the moving force of the first movable member is transmitted to the first transmission unit.

12. In paragraph 4, The above door opening portion comprises a first magnetic unit provided on the first door, Further comprising a second magnetic unit provided in the second door, A refrigerator wherein the second magnetic unit is movable together with the first movable member.

13. In paragraph 12, The first magnet unit includes a first magnet having a first pole and a second magnet having a second pole opposite to the first pole, The second magnet unit includes a third magnet having the first pole and a fourth magnet having the second pole, A refrigerator in which, to open the second door, the third magnet moves in a direction closer to the first magnet.

14. In paragraph 13, When the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in the Y-axis direction, which is the arrangement direction of the first door and the second door. The third and fourth magnets are arranged in the Y-axis direction, A refrigerator wherein the third magnet is positioned closer to the first magnet than the fourth magnet.

15. In paragraph 13, When the second door is closed, the first magnet and the second magnet are arranged in the X-axis direction intersecting the arrangement direction of the first door and the second door, The third and fourth magnets are arranged in the X-axis direction, A refrigerator wherein the fourth magnet is positioned closer to the first magnet than the third magnet.

16. In paragraph 1, A sensor section that detects the input of an opening command for the second door, Further comprising a control unit for controlling the door opening device; A refrigerator in which the control unit controls the door opening device so that the first door and the second door are unlocked and the second door is opened when an input of an opening command for the second door is detected from the sensor unit.

17. Cabinet having storage space; and comprising a door for opening and closing at least a portion of the storage room; The above door is a first door rotatably connected to the cabinet; A second door rotatable relative to the first door; A locking device that allows the first door and the second door to be locked or unlocked while the second door is closed; and Including a door opening device for automatically opening the second door; In the locked position of the above locking device, A refrigerator wherein the locking device can be manually operated by a user and automatically operated by the door opening device.

18. In paragraph 17, The above storage room includes a refrigerator and a freezer located below the refrigerator, The above first door opens and closes the refrigerator, A refrigerator wherein the door opening device and the locking device are located on the lower side of the second door.

19. In paragraph 17, The above door opening device comprises a door opening portion, A refrigerator in which the operating time of the locking device and the operating time of the door opening unit are set differently.

20. In paragraph 19, The above door opening device comprises a driving unit, Including a first moving member that receives power from the above driving unit, The above door opening portion is connected to the first moving member, A refrigerator in which, when the driving unit is operated, the locking device is moved to the unlocked position by the first moving member and then the first moving member operates the door opening unit.

Images