Refrigerator

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a refrigerator comprises: a cabinet having a storage space of which a front surface is opened; a door for opening and closing the storage space; and a hinge for rotationally connecting the door to the cabinet, wherein the hinge includes: a first body fixed and mounted to the cabinet; a second body moved in a front and rear direction along the first body; and a hinge shaft provided to the second body and coupled to the door to be a center of rotation of the door.

Description

refrigerator

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigerator.

[0002] A refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at low temperatures within an internal storage space enclosed by a door. To achieve this, refrigerators utilize the cold air generated through heat exchange with the refrigerant circulating in the refrigeration cycle to cool the interior of the storage space, thereby maintaining optimal storage conditions for stored food.

[0003] Recent refrigerators are becoming larger and more multifunctional in line with the changing eating habits and the trend toward higher quality products, and refrigerators with various structures that take user convenience into consideration are being released.

[0004] In particular, refrigerators are now being designed to be embedded in walls or arranged to harmonize with other furniture or appliances. In these cases, refrigerators require a certain amount of clearance to prevent the corners of their rotating doors from interfering with adjacent walls, furniture, or appliances.

[0005] However, this kind of separation distance not only creates unnecessary space for the refrigerator to be placed, but also causes an unsightly appearance.

[0006] To solve this problem, a refrigerator equipped with a multi-link hinge structure is being developed.

[0007] However, multi-link refrigerators are complex and expensive. Furthermore, the inherent nature of multi-link operation poses safety risks, such as the risk of a user's body becoming trapped between the links.

[0008] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator that can minimize the distance from the wall by preventing interference with the wall on which the refrigerator is installed when the door is rotated.

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which the door can be opened and closed without contacting the wall surface regardless of the thickness of the door and the spacing between surrounding structures.

[0010] An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator capable of stable sliding movement and rotation when opening and closing a door.

[0011] A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cabinet forming a storage space with an open front; a door for opening and closing the storage space; and a hinge for rotatably connecting the door to the cabinet; wherein the hinge may include: a first body fixedly mounted to the cabinet; a second body moving in a forward and backward direction along the first body; and a hinge axis provided on the second body and coupled to the door to serve as a center of rotation of the door.

[0012] The above first body and second body can be formed of a metal material.

[0013] The first body may be recessed to accommodate the second body, and a body receiving portion may be formed with an open front and upper surface to allow the second body to enter and exit.

[0014] Guide portions are formed on both left and right sides of the body receiving portion, into which both ends of the second body are inserted, and the second body can be slid in and out in the front and rear directions along the guide portions.

[0015] On both ends of the second body, protrusions may be formed that protrude laterally and are inserted into the inside of the guide portion.

[0016] When the second body is positioned within the body receiving portion, the upper surface of the second body may be positioned at the same level as or lower than the upper surface of the first body.

[0017] An upwardly protruding restraint member may be provided on the inner side of the body receiving portion, and a restraint groove may be formed on the lower surface of the second body to be recessed to receive the restraint member and to limit the withdrawal and entry of the second body.

[0018] A receiving opening is formed at the bottom of the above body receiving portion, and the restraining member can be inserted and mounted into the receiving opening.

[0019] The above first body may be provided with a guide pin that is inserted into a guide slot formed on the lower surface of the door.

[0020] The above guide pin is coupled to the above 1 body and can protrude toward the door.

[0021] The above hinge axis can move forward relative to the guide pin when the door is opened.

[0022] The above guide pin is arranged on the side of the hinge axis, and may be arranged on one side farthest from the side end of the door among the left and right sides based on the hinge axis.

[0023] The above guide pin may be positioned on the side of the hinge axis when the door is closed, and may be positioned rearward of the hinge axis when the door is open.

[0024] A hinge hole into which the hinge shaft is inserted and the guide slot may be formed on the upper or lower surface of the door.

[0025] The above guide slot may include a first part extending in the forward-backward direction and guiding the movement of the guide pin so that the door moves in the forward-backward direction, and a second part extending in a rounded manner from an end of the first part and guiding the movement of the guide pin so that the door rotates.

[0026] When the door is in a state where the sliding withdrawal is completed, the guide pin can be positioned at the end of the first part connected to the second part.

[0027] The above guide pin may be provided with a pinion, and a rack gear may be formed along the guide slot to be coupled with the pinion.

[0028] The rear end of the above first body may be provided with a hinge bracket that is coupled to the cabinet.

[0029] The hinge may further include a draw-in / out device for sliding the second body, and a detection device for detecting the draw-in / out status of the second body.

[0030] The above door is provided with an operating device for user operation input, and the withdrawal / entry device can be operated by the operating device.

[0031] A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention has the following effects.

[0032] According to the present embodiment, when the door rotates, the hinge pin moves along the guide groove, and at this time, the door can rotate while moving its center of rotation. Therefore, when the door rotates to open and close, there is an advantage in that the side and corner portions of the door can be minimized from protruding outward, thereby minimizing the distance between the refrigerator and the wall.

[0033] Figure 1 is a front view of a refrigerator installed according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 2 is a front view of the refrigerator with the door open.

[0035] Figure 3 is a partial perspective view showing the lower part of the door with the hinge mounted.

[0036] Figure 4 is a bottom view of the above door.

[0037] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the connection between the lower surface of the door and the hinge.

[0038] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the hinge as seen from above.

[0039] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the hinge as seen from below.

[0040] Figure 8 is a perspective view taken along line 8-8 of Figure 5.

[0041] Fig. 9 is a cutaway perspective view showing the hinge of Fig. 8 in a slidingly extended state.

[0042] Figure 10 is a drawing showing the door in a closed state.

[0043] Figure 11 is a drawing showing the door in an open state with the hinge slid out.

[0044] Figures 12 to 15 are drawings showing a state in which the door is always rotated by the hinge.

[0045] Fig. 16 is a bottom view of a door equipped with a hinge according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Fig. 17 is a bottom view of a door equipped with a hinge according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig. 18 is a block diagram showing the flow of control signals of a refrigerator according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a refrigerator with the sub-door open according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments that present the spirit of the present invention, and other regressive inventions or embodiments within the spirit of the present invention can be easily proposed by adding, modifying, or deleting other components.

[0050] Before explaining, let's define the direction. In the embodiment of the present invention, the direction in which the front of the door as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 faces 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 on which the refrigerator is installed is defined as downward, and the direction away from the floor surface is defined as upward. In addition, when discussing directions that are not defined, the direction can be defined and explained based on each drawing.

[0051] In addition, although the embodiment of the present invention describes a refrigerator in which a refrigerator compartment and a freezer compartment are arranged vertically and each has a door, it is to be noted in advance that the present invention is not limited to the structure and shape of the refrigerator and is applicable to all types of refrigerators having a rotating door.

[0052] Fig. 1 is a front view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a front view of the refrigerator with the door open.

[0053] As illustrated, the refrigerator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have an overall appearance formed by a cabinet (10) forming a storage space with an open front, and a door (20) for opening and closing the storage space.

[0054] In addition, the refrigerator (1) can be installed so as to be in harmony with the furniture or wall (O) of the indoor space. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the refrigerator (1) can be installed in an indoor space such as a kitchen, and can be arranged so as to be in harmony adjacent to the furniture or wall (O). That is, a space corresponding to the size of the refrigerator (1) is provided in the furniture or wall (O), and the refrigerator (1) can be accommodated therein, or it can be arranged as a built-in type. Of course, in addition to the furniture or wall (O), the refrigerator (1) can be arranged in series with multiple refrigerators or other home appliances.

[0055] In the arrangement structure of the refrigerator (1) as described above, the front of the refrigerator (1), i.e., the front of the door (20), may be very close to the furniture or wall (O), and may be configured to be positioned on the same or adjacent plane to have a sense of unity.

[0056] Looking at the structure of the refrigerator (1) in more detail, the cabinet (10) may have the storage space divided vertically to form an upper storage space (11) and a lower storage space (12). For example, the upper storage space (11) may be a refrigerator compartment, and the lower storage space may be a freezer compartment.

[0057] The above door (20) can be configured to open and close the storage space, and can include an upper door (201) for opening and closing the upper storage space (11) and a lower door (202) for opening and closing the lower storage space (12).

[0058] The upper door (201) and lower door (202) can be arranged as a pair on each of the left and right sides, and can be configured to be opened and closed by rotation. That is, the upper storage space (11) can be opened and closed by a pair of upper doors (201), and the lower storage space (12) can be opened and closed by a pair of lower doors (202).

[0059] The above door (20) can be rotated by being connected to the cabinet (10) by a hinge (30). For example, a first hinge (301) and a second hinge (30) can be provided at the top and bottom of a pair of upper doors (201) arranged on the left and right sides. The upper door (201) can be rotatably mounted to the cabinet (10) by the first hinge (301) and the second hinge (30).

[0060] The upper and lower portions of the lower door (202) may be provided with the second hinge (30) and the third hinge (302). The lower door (202) may be rotatably mounted to the cabinet (10) by the second hinge (30) and the third hinge (30).

[0061] Hereinafter, the hinge will be examined in more detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, the following description will be based on the second hinge (30) mounted on the upper door (201). For convenience of explanation, the upper door (201) may be referred to as a door (20), and the second hinge (30) may be referred to as a hinge (30). Accordingly, the present invention may be equally applicable to the lower door (202) and the first hinge (301) and the third hinge (302).

[0062] Fig. 3 is a partial perspective view showing the lower portion of the door with the hinge installed. Fig. 4 is a bottom view of the door. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the connection between the lower portion of the door and the hinge.

[0063] As illustrated, the door (20) may include a front panel (21) forming the front of the door (20), a door liner (22) forming the rear of the door (20), an upper cap (23) forming the upper surface of the door (20), and a lower cap (24) forming the lower surface of the door (20). The front panel (21) may be formed of various materials such as glass, metal, ceramic, or plastic. In addition, both ends of the front panel (21) may be bent to form both sides of the door. In addition, the door (20) may further include a side frame (25) forming both left and right sides.

[0064] The interior of the door (20) may be filled with insulating material. For example, the insulating material may be formed by filling a space formed by the combination of the front panel (21), the door liner (22), the upper cap (23), and the lower cap (24) with a foaming liquid.

[0065] Meanwhile, the upper cap (23) and the lower cap (24) may be equipped with a hinge (30), and the door (20) may be rotatably mounted on the cabinet (10) by the hinge (30). Hereinafter, the structure of the hinge (30) mounted on the lower cap (24) will be described as an example. The first hinge (301) mounted on the upper cap (23) may also have the same structure.

[0066] A handle (241) may be formed recessed on one side of the lower surface of the lower cap (24). In addition, a hinge (30) may be mounted on the other side of the lower surface of the lower cap (24). The door (20) may be rotated about the hinge (30) to open and close the storage space.

[0067] A hinge mounting portion (242) may be formed on one of the left and right sides of the lower cap (24). The hinge mounting portion (242) may be formed on one of the left and right sides of the lower cap (24) that is farther from the handle (241). The hinge (30) may be mounted on the hinge mounting portion (242). The hinge mounting portion (242) may include a hinge hole (243) and a guide slot (244) on which the hinge (30) is mounted.

[0068] The hinge hole (243) may be formed on one of the left and right sides of the lower cap (24). The hinge shaft (36) of the hinge (30) may be inserted and mounted in the hinge hole (243). The hinge hole (243) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the hinge shaft (36). Accordingly, the door (20) may rotate about the hinge hole (243) as an axis.

[0069] The guide slot (244) may be further formed on one side of the left and right sides of the lower cap (24). The guide slot (244) may be located on the same side as the position where the hinge hole (243) is formed on the left and right sides of the door (20). The guide slot (244) may guide the movement of the guide pin (324) to be described below. The guide slot (244) may be formed so that the guide pin (324) is inserted, and may have a path that may induce the forward and backward movement of the door (20) and the rotation of the door (20).

[0070] In detail, the guide slot (244) is formed on the lower surface of the lower cap (24) and can be sunken so that the guide pin (324) is inserted. The width of the guide slot (244) can be formed to correspond to the diameter of the guide pin (324). In addition, the guide slot (244) can be formed to extend so as to guide the movement for opening and closing the door (20). Therefore, when the door (20) is opened and closed, the guide pin (324) can be moved in a state of contacting the inner surface of the guide slot (244).

[0071] In detail, the guide slot (244) may include a first part (245) and a second part (246). The first part (245) may form a path along which the guide pin (324) moves for forward and backward movement of the door (20).

[0072] The first part (245) may extend in the forward-backward direction. The first part (245) may extend perpendicularly to the front surface of the door (20). The first part (245) may be formed to guide the forward-backward movement of the door (20). The first part (245) may extend rearward from the front end of the lower cap (24) and may extend further rearward than the hinge hole (243). The extension length of the first part (245) may correspond to the forward-backward movement stroke of the door (20). The first part (245) may be positioned further from the side end of the door (20) with respect to the hinge hole (243).

[0073] The second part (246) may extend from the end of the first part (245) to be rounded toward the side end of the door (20). The second part (246) may be formed at the rear end of the first part (245). The second part (246) may extend to pass through the rear of the hinge hole (243). In addition, the second part (246) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the hinge hole (243). In addition, the second part (246) may be formed to guide the rotation of the door (20) when the door (20) is opened and closed. That is, the second part (246) may be formed to correspond to the movement trajectory of the guide pin (324) when the door (20) is rotated about the hinge hole (243) as an axis.

[0074] Meanwhile, a first end portion (247) and a second end portion (248) may be formed at both ends of the guide slot (244). The first end portion (247) may be formed at the front end of the first part (245) and may be formed in a semicircular shape that contacts the circumferential surface of the guide pin (324). The second end portion (248) may be formed at the side end of the second part (246) and may be formed in a semicircular shape that contacts the circumferential surface of the guide pin (324).

[0075] In addition, the guide slot (244) may include a connecting portion (249). The connecting portion (249) may be a portion where the rear end of the first part (245) and the side end of the second part (246) come into contact with each other.

[0076] The hinge (30) above can connect the cabinet (10) and the lower cap (24). The hinge (30) can allow the door (20) to move forward and backward and rotate when the door (20) is opened and closed. To this end, the hinge (30) can include a hinge bracket (31), a first body (32), a second body (33), and a hinge axis (36). If necessary, the hinge bracket (31) can be omitted or formed integrally with the first body (32).

[0077] The above hinge bracket (31) is for mounting the hinge (30) to the cabinet (10) and can be fixed to the cabinet (10). The hinge bracket (31) can be formed of a metal material. The hinge bracket (31) can be provided on the front of the cabinet (10).

[0078] A plurality of screw holes (312) may be formed in the above hinge bracket (31). Screws penetrating the screw holes (312) may be fastened to the cabinet (10) to fix the hinge to the cabinet (10).

[0079] A bracket connecting portion (311) may be formed on the above hinge bracket (31). The bracket connecting portion (311) may be formed between a plurality of screw holes (312). The bracket connecting portion (311) may be opened so that the rear end of the first body (32) may be inserted.

[0080] The first body (32) may be fixedly mounted on the front end of the hinge bracket (31). A guide pin (324) may be formed on the first body (32). The second body (33) may be slidably mounted on the first body (32). A hinge shaft (36) may be provided on the second body (33).

[0081] Below, the hinge (30) will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0082] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the hinge as seen from above. Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the hinge as seen from below. Fig. 8 is a cutaway perspective view taken along line 8-8 of Fig. 5. Fig. 9 is a cutaway perspective view showing the hinge of Fig. 8 in a slidingly extended state.

[0083] As illustrated, the hinge (30) may include a first body (32), a second body (33), and a hinge axis (36). In addition, the first body (32) and the second body (33) may be formed of a metal material.

[0084] And, the first body (32) can be fixedly mounted to the cabinet (10). A body coupling portion (321) that is coupled to the hinge bracket (31) can be formed at the rear end of the first body (32). The body coupling portion (321) is formed at the rear end of the hinge bracket (31) and can protrude rearward. The body coupling portion (321) can be inserted into the bracket coupling portion (311).

[0085] A sunken body receiving portion (320) may be formed on the upper surface of the first body (32) to receive the second body (33). The body receiving portion (320) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the size of the second body (33). The body receiving portion (320) may be opened forward and upward, and may be moved in the front-back direction while the upper surface of the first body (32) is exposed.

[0086] And, when the second body (33) is positioned within the body receiving portion (320), the upper surface of the second body (33) is positioned equal to or lower than the upper surface of the first body (32). Therefore, the space in the vertical direction where the hinge (30) is mounted can be minimized.

[0087] Guide portions (322) into which both ends of the second body (33) are inserted may be formed on both left and right sides of the body receiving portion (320). The guide portions (322) may be recessed laterally on both sides of the body receiving portion (320). The second body (33) may slide in the front and rear directions with both ends inserted into the guide portions (322).

[0088] The first body (32) may be provided with a restraining member (35). The restraining member (35) is intended to restrict the withdrawal of the second body (33) and may be formed to protrude from the bottom surface of the body receiving portion (320). For example, a receiving portion opening (323) is formed in the body receiving portion (320), and the restraining member (35) may be inserted and mounted in the receiving portion opening (323).

[0089] The above restraint member (35) can be restrained by engaging the second body (33) when the second body (33) is fully extended, thereby limiting the extension of the second body (33).

[0090] The above restraint member (35) may include a shielding portion (352), an insertion portion (351), and a catch portion (353). The shielding portion (352) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the receiving portion opening (323) to shield the receiving portion opening (323). The insertion portion (351) may protrude downward from the lower surface of the shielding portion (352) and may be inserted into the inner side of the receiving portion opening (323). At this time, the peripheral surface of the insertion portion (351) and the inner surface of the receiving portion opening (323) may be formed to have corresponding steps so as to be coupled to each other.

[0091] The above-mentioned catch (353) may protrude upward from the upper surface of the shield (352). In addition, the catch (353) may be inserted into the inner side of the restraining groove (333) formed on the lower surface of the second body (33). The front and rear ends of the catch (353) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the front and rear ends of the restraining groove (333).

[0092] Meanwhile, the first body (32) may be provided with a guide pin (324). The guide pin (324) may protrude to be inserted into the guide slot (244). The guide pin (324) may have a circular cross-section and a diameter corresponding to the width of the guide slot (244). Accordingly, the guide pin (324) may be moved into contact with the guide slot (244) while being inserted into the guide slot (244).

[0093] The above guide pin (324) may be formed on the upper surface of the first body (32) and may protrude toward the lower surface of the door (20). The guide pin (324) may be positioned on the side of the hinge axis (36) when the door (20) is closed. The guide pin (324) may also be formed integrally with the first body (32).

[0094] The above guide pin (324) may be formed on one side of the left and right sides of the first body (32). The guide pin (324) may be positioned on the side of the body receiving portion (320). In detail, the guide pin (324) is arranged on the side of the hinge axis (36), and may be arranged on the side farthest from the side end of the door (20) among the left and right sides based on the hinge axis (36). The guide pin (324) may be formed separately from the first body (32) as needed and then coupled to the first body (32).

[0095] The second body (33) may be formed to be smaller than the size of the first body (32). The second body (33) may be formed to have a shape corresponding to the body receiving portion (320). The second body (33) may be received within the body receiving portion (320) and may be formed to have a corresponding shape so as to fill the body receiving portion (320) when inserted into the body receiving portion (320). For example, the second body (33) may be formed in a rectangular plate shape, and the body receiving portion (320) may also be formed to have a correspondingly recessed shape.

[0096] A protrusion (332) may be formed on both ends of the second body (33). The protrusion (332) may be formed to be inserted into the guide portion (322). The protrusion (332) may extend from the front end to the rear end of the second body (33). The protrusion (332) may protrude laterally further than the opened upper surface of the body receiving portion (320). Accordingly, the second body (33) can move forward and backward without being separated upward while being mounted on the first body (32).

[0097] The second body (33) is mounted on the body receiving portion (320) so that its upper surface is exposed upward. Furthermore, the upper surface of the second body (33) may be formed to be the same height as or slightly lower than the upper surface of the first body (32). Furthermore, the lower surface of the first body (32) may be in contact with the bottom surface of the body receiving portion (320) so that the first body (32) is mounted on the body receiving portion (320).

[0098] A restraining groove (333) may be formed on the lower surface of the second body (33). The restraining groove (333) is recessed to accommodate the restraining member (35) and may restrict the withdrawal and entry of the second body (33). The restraining groove (333) may be formed above the restraining member (35). In addition, the front and rear ends of the restraining groove (333) may be formed at positions where they come into contact with the engaging portion (353) when the door (20) is fully extended and when the door (20) is closed, respectively.

[0099] The second body (33) may be provided with a hinge shaft (36). The hinge shaft (36) protrudes upward from the upper surface of the second body (33) and may be inserted into the hinge hole (243). The hinge shaft (36) may be formed separately from the second body (33) and may be coupled to the second body (33). For example, a shaft coupling hole (331) may be formed in the second body (33). In addition, the hinge shaft (36) may be inserted and mounted into the shaft coupling hole (331). The shaft coupling hole (331) may be located forward of the restraining groove (333). The shaft coupling hole (331) may be located vertically below the hinge hole (243) when the door (20) is closed.

[0100] In addition, the hinge axis (36) may include a flange (362), an upper part (361), and a lower part (363). The flange (362) extends along the circumference of the hinge axis (36) and may support the circumference of the shaft coupling hole (331) when the hinge axis (36) is mounted in the shaft coupling hole (331).

[0101] And, the upper part (361) extends upward from the flange (362) and can be inserted into the hinge hole (243). And, the lower part (363) extends downward from the flange (362) and is inserted into the shaft coupling hole (331) so that the hinge shaft (36) is mounted.

[0102] Below, the process of opening and closing the door (20) of the refrigerator (1) having the above structure is described with reference to the drawings.

[0103] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the door in a closed state. Fig. 11 is a drawing showing the door in an open state with the hinge slid out. Figs. 12 to 15 are drawings showing the door in a state in which it is constantly rotated by the hinge.

[0104] As illustrated in Fig. 10, when the door (20) is closed, the second body (33) may be completely inserted into the inside of the first body (32). That is, the front end of the second body (33) may not protrude from the body receiving portion (320).

[0105] And, the above-mentioned catch (353) may be in contact with the front end of the above-mentioned restraint groove (333). And, the rear end of the above-mentioned second body (33) may be in contact with the rear end of the above-mentioned body receiving portion (320).

[0106] When the door (20) is closed, the guide pin (324) can be positioned within the first part (245). Specifically, the guide pin (324) can be positioned at the front end of the first part (245), i.e., the first end (247). In addition, when the door (20) is closed, a set gap (G1) can be spaced apart from the side of the door (20) and the wall (O).

[0107] In this state, the user can open the door (20).

[0108] As illustrated in Fig. 11, when a user holds the handle (241) and opens the door (20), the door (20) moves forward. At this time, the door (20) can be moved forward in a direction perpendicular to the front surface of the door (20) by the guide pin (324) and the guide slot (244).

[0109] In detail, when the guide pin (324) is positioned within the first part (245), the rotation of the door (20) is restricted, and the guide pin (324) can only move in the forward and backward directions. Therefore, when the handle (241) is grasped and pulled, a force can be applied to the guide pin (324) so ​​that it moves forward along the first part (245). Therefore, the door (20) can move forward without rotating.

[0110] The door (20) can be moved forward until the guide pin (324) is positioned at the rear end of the first part (245), i.e., the connecting portion (249). In addition, the hinge axis (36) does not rotate while the door (20) is moved forward.

[0111] When the door (20) moves forward, the hinge axis (36) is inserted into the hinge hole (243), and thus the second body (33) can move forward from the first body (32). That is, the first body (32) remains fixed to the cabinet (10), and the second body (33) protrudes from the body receiving portion (320) and moves forward together with the door (20). The distance of movement in the forward / backward direction of the door (20) can correspond to the length of the first part (245).

[0112] As the door (20) moves forward, the guide pin (324) moves relatively rearward. Therefore, the guide pin (324) can move rearward relative to the hinge axis (36). In addition, as shown in FIG. 11, when the door (20) is moved forward, the guide pin (324) can be positioned rearward relative to the hinge axis (36).

[0113] When the door (20) is fully extended, the catch (353) comes into contact with the rear end of the restraining groove (333), so that the second body (33) no longer moves forward. At this time, the door (20) can move forward until the guide pin (324) is positioned at the rear end of the first part (245), i.e., the connecting portion (249). At this time, the set gap (G1) is maintained between the side surface of the door (20) and the wall (O).

[0114] As illustrated in FIG. 12, when the handle (241) is held in the state of FIG. 11 and the door (20) is further pulled, the guide pin (324) passes through the connecting portion (249) and enters the second part (246). As the guide pin (324) enters the second part (246), it no longer moves forward, and the door (20) rotates clockwise with respect to the hinge axis (36).

[0115] When the door (20) is rotated by the set interval (α1), the distance between the most protruding corner of the door (20) and the wall (O) is narrowed to the set interval (G2). For example, the set interval (α1) may be 30°. At this time, the set interval (G2) may be narrower than the set interval (G1) in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0116] As illustrated in FIG. 13, when the handle (241) is held and pulled further in the state of FIG. 12, the guide pin (324) moves further along the second part (246). When the guide pin (324) moves further along the second part (246), the door (20) rotates further in a clockwise direction with respect to the hinge axis (36).

[0117] And, when the door (20) is rotated by the set angle (α2), the distance between the most protruding corner of the door (20) and the wall (O) is narrowed to the set gap (G3). For example, the set angle (α2) may be 45°. At this time, the set gap (G3) may be narrower than the set gap (G2) in FIG. 12, and is the minimum gap between the door (20) and the wall (O) so as not to come into contact with the wall (O).

[0118] As illustrated in FIG. 14, when the handle (241) is held and pulled further in the state of FIG. 13, the guide pin (324) moves further along the second part (246). When the guide pin (324) moves further along the second part (246), the door (20) rotates further in a clockwise direction with respect to the hinge axis (36).

[0119] And, when the door (20) is rotated by a set angle (α3), the corner of the door (20) and the wall (O) are spaced apart by a set gap (G4). For example, the set angle (α3) may be 60°.

[0120] As illustrated in FIG. 15, when the handle (241) is held and pulled further in the state of FIG. 14, the guide pin (324) moves to the end of the second part (246), that is, to the second end (248). As the guide pin (324) moves to the second end (248), the door (20) rotates clockwise to the maximum with respect to the hinge axis (36).

[0121] And, when the door (20) is rotated by a set angle (α4), the front surface of the door (20) and the wall (O) are spaced apart by a set gap (G5). For example, the set angle (α4) may be 90°.

[0122] And, when the guide pin (324) is positioned at the second end (248), the door (20) no longer rotates. Therefore, the door (20) can be stopped at a distance where it does not collide with the wall. Of course, the position of the second end (248) can be adjusted so that the door (20) rotates more than the set angle (α4).

[0123] Meanwhile, the second body (33) can be maintained in a withdrawn state while the door (20) is rotated. And, after the door (20) is opened, the hinge axis (36) can be moved further forward than the guide pin (324).

[0124] Even when the door (20) is rotated to the maximum angle, the door (20) can be rotated without colliding with the wall (O). In particular, even when the gap with the wall (O) is narrow and the door (20) is thick, the door (20) can be rotated while moving forward, so that the door (20) can be rotated without interfering with the wall (O).

[0125] As described above, the withdrawal and rotation of the door (20) is described step by step, but the above-described process is continuously performed by a single action of the user holding and pulling the handle (241), and the door (20) can be naturally pulled forward and then rotated.

[0126] And, when the door (20) is operated to close the door (20) while it is open, the door (20) can be closed by rotating in the reverse order of the process described above and then sliding backward.

[0127] Meanwhile, the present invention may have various other embodiments in addition to the aforementioned embodiments. Below, other embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Among the components of other embodiments of the present invention, those that are identical to those of the aforementioned embodiments may be omitted for detailed description and illustration, and may be described using the same drawing reference numerals.

[0128] That is, only the structure of the guide member that is different from the above-described embodiment is described below, and other configurations not described may be the same as the above-described embodiment.

[0129] Fig. 16 is a bottom view of a door equipped with a hinge according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] As illustrated, the door (20a) of the refrigerator (1) according to the second embodiment of the present invention can be rotatably mounted by a hinge (30a). The structure of the hinge (30a) may be the same as that of the above-described embodiment. However, there are differences in some of the structures of the guide slot (244) and the guide pin (324).

[0131] A hinge (30a) may be mounted on the lower surface of the door (20a). A hinge hole (243) into which a hinge shaft (36) of the hinge (30a) is inserted, and a guide slot (244) into which a guide pin (324) is inserted and moved may be formed on the lower surface of the door (20a).

[0132] The hinge (30a) may include a first body (32) fixed to the cabinet (10), a second body (33) slidably mounted on the first body (32), and a hinge shaft (36) provided on the second body (33) and rotatably coupled to the door (20a). In addition, the hinge (30a) may further include a hinge bracket (31) mounted on the cabinet (10). The hinge bracket (31) may be coupled to the first body (32).

[0133] A body receiving portion (320) is formed in a recessed manner in the first body (32), and the second body (33) can be received in the body receiving portion (320). The second body (33) can be slidably inserted and removed from the body receiving portion (320).

[0134] In addition, the body receiving portion (320) may be provided with a restraining member (35), and a restraining groove (333) in which the restraining member (35) is received may be formed on the lower surface of the second body (33). The restraining member (35) may contact an end of the restraining groove (333) when the second body (33) is fully retracted and fully retracted, thereby restricting the withdrawal and entry of the second body (33) and the withdrawal and entry of the door (20a).

[0135] A guide pin (324) may protrude from one side of the first body (32). In addition, the guide pin (324) may be inserted into the guide slot (244). The guide slot (244) may include a first part (245) extending in the front-back direction, and a second part (246) extending at a predetermined curvature from an end of the first part (245). The second part (246) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the hinge axis (36).

[0136] Meanwhile, a pinion (3241) may be formed around the guide pin (324). In addition, the guide pin (324) may be rotatably mounted on the first body (32). In addition, a rack gear (2441) coupled with the pinion (3241) may be continuously formed on the inner surface of the guide slot (244). The rack gear (2441) may be formed along the first part (245) and the second part (246).

[0137] Accordingly, when the door (20a) is opened, the door (20a) can slide forward and then rotate as in the embodiment described above. In addition, the hinge (30a) can be operated as in the process described above.

[0138] At this time, the pinion (3241) rotates while being coupled with the rack gear (2441), and thus the guide pin (324) can move steadily without slipping within the guide slot (244). Accordingly, the door (20a) can be opened and closed stably and smoothly without shaking.

[0139] Fig. 17 is a bottom view of a door equipped with a hinge according to a third embodiment of the present invention. And, Fig. 18 is a block diagram showing the flow of control signals of a refrigerator according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] As illustrated, the door (20b) of the refrigerator (1) according to the third embodiment of the present invention may be supported by a hinge (30b). The structure of the hinge may be the same as that of the aforementioned embodiment. However, the second body (33) may be automatically drawn in and out by a drawer / withdrawal device (40).

[0141] A hinge (30b) may be mounted on the lower surface of the door (20b). A hinge hole (243) into which the hinge shaft (36) of the hinge (30b) is inserted, and a guide slot (244) into which a guide pin (324) is inserted may be formed on the lower surface of the door (20b).

[0142] The hinge (30b) may include a first body (32) fixed to the cabinet (10), a second body (33) slidably mounted on the first body (32), and a hinge shaft (36) provided on the second body (33) and rotatably coupled to the door (20b). In addition, the hinge may further include a hinge bracket (31) mounted on the cabinet (10). The hinge bracket (31) may be coupled to the first body (32).

[0143] A body receiving portion (320) is formed in a recessed manner in the first body (32), and the second body (33) can be received in the body receiving portion (320). The second body (33) can be slidably inserted and removed from the body receiving portion (320).

[0144] In addition, the body receiving portion (320) may be provided with a draw-in / out device (40), and a restraining groove (333) may be formed on the lower surface of the second body (33) to receive the draw-in / out device (40). The draw-in / out device (40) may be operated by a driving unit (50) such as a motor.

[0145] For example, the withdrawal / intake device (40) may be composed of a pinion or a circular gear. In addition, the withdrawal / intake device (40) may be connected to the driving unit (50) and may rotate. In addition, a rack gear (2441) extending in the front-rear direction may be formed on the inner surface of the body receiving portion (320). The rack gear (2441) may be connected to the withdrawal / intake device (40). Therefore, the withdrawal / intake device (40) may rotate according to the forward and reverse rotation of the driving unit (50) and may move along the rack gear (2441). In addition, the door (20b) may move in the front-rear direction according to the movement of the withdrawal / intake device (40).

[0146] A guide pin (324) may protrude from one side of the first body (32). In addition, the guide pin (324) may be inserted into the guide slot (244). The guide slot (244) may include a first part (245) extending in the front-rear direction, and a second part (246) extending at a predetermined curvature from an end of the first part (245). The second part (246) may be formed in an arc shape centered on the hinge axis (36). The length of the first part (245) may correspond to the length of the rack gear (2441), and may correspond to the front-rear direction extension / exit distance of the door (20b).

[0147] Meanwhile, the driving unit (50) is operated by the control unit (14), and the control unit (14) can operate the driving unit (50) according to signals from the detection device (51) and the operation device (52).

[0148] In detail, the hinge (30b) may be equipped with a detection device (51). The detection device (51) may detect the distance of withdrawal or retraction of the second body (33). Accordingly, when the second body (33) is completely withdrawn or retracted, the control unit (14) may stop the driving unit (50). As another example, the detection device (51) may detect the movement distance of the door (20b) and control the operation of the driving unit (50).

[0149] And, the door (20b) may be equipped with an operating device (52). When the operating device (52) is operated, the control unit (14) may instruct the operation of the driving unit (50) and cause the door (20b) to be withdrawn or drawn in. For example, the operating device (52) may be equipped on the handle (241), and when a user holds the handle (241), this may be detected, and the driving unit (50) may be operated, and the door (20b) may be moved forward. As another example, the operating device (52) may be configured with a proximity sensor, and when a user approaches within a set distance, this may be detected, and the driving unit (50) may be operated, and the door (20b) may be moved forward.

[0150] By the operation of the above-mentioned withdrawal / entry device (40), the second body (33) is moved forward, and the guide pin (324) can move the door (20b) forward while moving along the first part (245). Then, when the door (20b) is withdrawn by the withdrawal / entry device (40) and the user pulls the door (20b), the guide pin (324) moves along the second part (246), and the door (20b) can be rotated.

[0151] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a refrigerator with the sub-door open according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] As illustrated, a refrigerator (1) according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a cabinet (10) forming a storage space and a door (20) for opening and closing the storage space.

[0153] The above cabinet (10) may include an upper storage space (11) and a lower storage space (12) that are partitioned vertically. In addition, the door (20) may include an upper door (201) that opens and closes the upper storage space (11), and a lower door (202) that forms the lower storage space (12).

[0154] The upper door (201) is arranged in pairs on the left and right sides, and is rotatably connected to the cabinet (10) by hinges (301, 30) so that the upper storage space (11) can be opened and closed, respectively. The lower door (202) is also arranged in pairs on the left and right sides, and is rotatably connected to the cabinet (10) by hinges (30, 302), so that the lower storage space (12) can be opened and closed, respectively.

[0155] At least one of the above upper doors (201) may have a double door structure including a main door (60) and a sub door (70).

[0156] The main door (60) can be opened and closed by rotating the upper storage space. In addition, the main door (60) can be formed with an opening (61) that communicates with the upper storage space (11). A storage member (62) can be placed in the opening (61).

[0157] The sub-door (70) is provided in front of the main door (60) and can open and close the opening (61). At least one of the upper and lower sides of the sub-door (70) is provided with a hinge (30) so that the sub-door (70) can be rotatably mounted. In addition, the sub-door (70) includes a transparent panel assembly (71) made of glass and can be configured to allow the opening (61) of the main door (60) to be seen through.

[0158] The structure of the hinge (30) is configured as at least one of the structures of the aforementioned embodiments, and can be slid forward and then rotated to open. Accordingly, even when the refrigerator (1) is placed adjacent to the wall (O), the door (20) can be pulled in and out without interfering with the wall (O).

[0159] The refrigerator according to the embodiment of the present invention has high industrial applicability because it is improved in terms of convenience of installation and use.

Claims

1. A cabinet forming a storage space with an open front; a door for opening and closing the above storage space; and A hinge for rotatably connecting the above door to the cabinet; The above hinge, A first body fixedly mounted on the above cabinet; a second body moving forward and backward along the first body; and A refrigerator comprising a hinge axis provided in the second body and coupled to the door to serve as a center of rotation of the door.

2. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the first body is sunken to accommodate the second body, and a body receiving portion is formed by opening the front and upper surfaces to allow the second body to enter and exit.

3. In paragraph 2, On both left and right sides of the above body receiving portion, guide portions are formed into which both ends of the second body are inserted, On both ends of the second body, protrusions are formed that protrude laterally and are inserted into the inside of the guide portion. A refrigerator in which the second body is slidably pulled out and in in the forward and backward direction along the guide portion.

4. In paragraph 2, An upwardly protruding restraining member is provided on the inside of the above body receiving portion, A refrigerator in which a restraining groove is formed on the lower surface of the second body to accommodate the restraining member and to restrict the withdrawal and entry of the second body.

5. In paragraph 4, A receiving opening is formed at the bottom of the above body receiving portion, A refrigerator in which the above restraint member is inserted and mounted into the opening of the receiving portion.

6. In paragraph 1, A refrigerator in which the first body is provided with a guide pin protruding toward the door so as to be inserted into a guide slot formed on the lower surface of the door.

7. In paragraph 6, A refrigerator in which the hinge axis moves forward more than the guide pin when the door is opened.

8. In paragraph 6, The above guide pin is arranged on the side of the hinge axis, A refrigerator placed on the side farthest from the side edge of the door among the left and right sides based on the hinge axis.

9. In paragraph 6, The above guide pin, The above door is located on the side of the hinge axis when closed, A refrigerator in which the door is positioned rearward of the hinge axis when the door is open.

10. In paragraph 6, A refrigerator in which a hinge hole into which the hinge axis is inserted and the guide slot are formed on the upper or lower surface of the door.

11. In paragraph 10, The above guide slot is, A first part extending in the forward and backward direction and guiding the movement of the guide pin so that the door moves in the forward and backward direction; A refrigerator comprising a second part extending roundly from an end of the first part and guiding the movement of the guide pin so that the door rotates.

12. In paragraph 11, When the above door has completed sliding withdrawal, A refrigerator wherein the above guide pin is located at the end of the first part connected to the second part.

13. In paragraph 6, The above guide pin is equipped with a pinion, A refrigerator in which a rack gear is formed along the guide slot to engage with the pinion.

14. In paragraph 1, The above hinge, A pull-out device that slides the second body, A refrigerator further comprising a detection device for detecting the withdrawal / intake status of the second body.

15. In paragraph 14, The above door is equipped with an operating device for user operation input, A refrigerator in which the withdrawal / intake device is operated by the above operating device.

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