Refrigerator and door opening and closing device

Abstract

A door opening and closing device according to one embodiment comprises: a driving unit; and a link gear rotating forward or backward with respect to a rotation center in accordance with an operation of the driving unit. A tooth part connected to the driving unit is provided on one side of the link gear with respect to the rotation center, and a coupling unit coupled to a link pushing a door is provided on the other side of the link gear with respect to the rotation center. A first distance between the rotation center and the coupling unit is greater than a second distance between the rotation center and the tooth part.

Description

Refrigerator and door opening / closing device

[0001] This specification relates to a refrigerator and a door opening and closing device.

[0002] Generally, a refrigerator is a home appliance that allows food to be stored at a low temperature in an internal storage compartment enclosed by a door.

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

[0004] To put an object into the storage room or take it out of the storage room, the user opens the door.

[0005] Generally, the door is rotatably provided in the cabinet, and a gasket is provided between the door and the cabinet. Therefore, when the door is closed, the gasket is tightly sealed between the door and the cabinet, preventing cold air from leaking from the storage room. The greater the sealing force of this gasket, the greater the effect of preventing cold air leakage.

[0006] To increase the sealing force of the above gasket, the gasket may be formed of a rubber magnet, and a magnet may be provided inside the gasket. However, if the sealing force of such a gasket is increased, a correspondingly large force is required when opening the door.

[0007] Therefore, refrigerators with an automatic door opening function are being provided recently. As a related prior art, Chinese Utility Model Registration No. 218324468 exists.

[0008] One embodiment provides a refrigerator and a door opening / closing device in which the door can be opened automatically and the opening angle of the door is increased when the door is opened automatically.

[0009] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator and a door opening and closing device in which the door can be automatically opened as well as automatically closed.

[0010] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator and a door opening / closing device that can reduce the excessive load applied to the drive unit by separating the door gasket from the cabinet at the beginning of the automatic opening of the door.

[0011] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator and a door opening / closing device in which the door can be opened automatically as well as manually by a user.

[0012] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator and a door opening / closing device that prevents damage to the drive unit for automatic opening when the door is manually opened.

[0013] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator and a door opening / closing device that can reduce the height and / or size of the door opening / closing device.

[0014] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator and a door opening / closing device in which the structure for opening the door can be reduced from being exposed to the outside when the door is closed and / or when the door is open.

[0015] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator that can reduce the height of a cover member covering a door opening and closing device.

[0016] Optionally or additionally, one embodiment provides a refrigerator in which a user's finger can be prevented from being pinched between the second operating part and the hinge cover by being spaced apart from the hinge cover by a certain distance or more when the door is open.

[0017] A door opening and closing device for opening and closing a refrigerator door according to one aspect may include a driving unit; and a link gear that rotates forward or reverse with respect to a rotation center according to the operation of the driving unit.

[0018] A tooth portion connected to the driving unit may be provided on one side of the link gear with respect to the rotation center. A coupling portion coupled to a link that pushes the door may be provided on the other side of the link gear with respect to the rotation center. A first distance between the rotation center and the coupling portion may be greater than a second distance between the rotation center and the tooth portion.

[0019] The above link gear may include a gear portion which is an area extending from the center of rotation to the tooth portion, and an arm portion which is an area extending from the center of rotation to the coupling portion.

[0020] The above tooth portion can be formed within an angle range smaller than 360 degrees in the above gear portion.

[0021] The door opening and closing device may further include a power transmission unit that transmits power from the driving unit to the tooth unit. The power transmission unit includes a plurality of gears, and at least one of the plurality of gears may overlap with the tooth unit in an up-and-down direction.

[0022] The above link gear may include a groove in which some of the gears among the plurality of gears are located.

[0023] The above link gear may include a recessed receiving portion for receiving a part of the link.

[0024] At least a portion of the receiving portion may be located between the rotational center of the above link gear and the above coupling portion.

[0025] The line connecting the rotation center of the above link gear and the above coupling part may overlap with the above receiving part.

[0026] The above receiving portion may be formed by the upper surface of the link gear being recessed downward, or by the lower surface of the link gear being recessed upward.

[0027] The area or volume of the link received in the receiving portion at the first position of the link gear may be larger than the area or volume of the link received in the receiving portion at the second position of the link gear.

[0028] In at least some of the entire section in which the link gear is rotated, the minimum distance between the link and the center of rotation of the link gear can be increased.

[0029] The above door opening and closing device may further include a transmission gear for transmitting power from the driving unit to the tooth unit.

[0030] The transmission gear may include a first part and a second part having a diameter different from that of the first part. The second part may include a tooth portion connected to a tooth portion of the link gear.

[0031] The tooth portion of the second part above may be formed within an angle range smaller than 360 degrees in the second part above.

[0032] The second distance from the center of rotation of the link gear to the tooth portion of the link gear may be greater than the third distance from the center of rotation of the second portion to the tooth portion of the second portion.

[0033] The above first part may overlap with the above gear part.

[0034] A refrigerator according to one aspect may include: a cabinet having a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the storage compartment; a hinge mechanism for allowing the door to rotate on the cabinet; and a door opening and closing device for opening and closing the door.

[0035] The above door opening and closing device may include a driving unit, a power transmission unit that transmits power from the driving unit, a link gear that operates by receiving power from the driving unit, and a link that has one end connected to the link gear and the other end connected to the door.

[0036] A tooth portion connected to the driving portion may be provided on one side relative to the rotation center of the link gear, and a coupling portion coupled to the link may be provided on the other side relative to the rotation center. The first distance between the rotation center and the coupling portion is different from the second distance between the rotation center and the tooth portion, and when the door is closed, the link may overlap with the link gear in the vertical direction.

[0037] The first distance between the rotation center and the coupling part may be greater than the second distance between the rotation center and the tooth part.

[0038] The line connecting the rotation center of the above link gear and the above coupling part may overlap with the above link in the vertical direction.

[0039] The distance between the gear tooth of the above tooth portion and the coupling portion may be smaller than the first distance between the rotation center and the coupling portion.

[0040] The distance between the other gear teeth of the above tooth portion and the above coupling portion may be greater than the first distance between the rotation center and the above coupling portion.

[0041] The above link gear may include a recessed receiving portion for accommodating a part of the link.

[0042] A refrigerator according to another aspect may include a cabinet having a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the storage compartment; a hinge mechanism for allowing the door to rotate on the cabinet; and a door opening and closing device for opening and closing the door.

[0043] The above door opening and closing device may include a driving unit that generates power, a power transmission unit that transmits power from the driving unit, a first operating unit that operates by receiving power from the driving unit, and a second operating unit that operates by receiving power from the driving unit so that the door opens to a set angle.

[0044] The second operating part may include a body, a gear part extending from the body and connected to the power transmission part, a connecting gear having an arm extending from the body, and a link having one side connected to the arm and the other side connected to the door.

[0045] The height of the above gear part may be smaller than the height of the above body.

[0046] The power transmission unit may include a plurality of gears. At least one of the plurality of gears may overlap with the gear unit in the vertical direction.

[0047] The above gear portion includes a plurality of gear teeth, and the plurality of gear teeth can be formed within an angle range smaller than 360 degrees.

[0048] The above power transmission unit includes a plurality of gears, and one or more of the body and arm may include a groove in which at least one of the plurality of gears is located.

[0049] The above arm includes a coupling portion to which the above link is coupled, and the distance from the center of rotation of the connecting gear to the coupling portion may be greater than the distance from the center of rotation of the connecting gear to the gear tooth.

[0050] The above arm may include a recessed receiving portion for receiving a part of the above link.

[0051] The above arm may include a coupling portion to which the above link is joined. At least a portion of the receiving portion may be located between the rotational center of the above connecting gear and the coupling portion.

[0052] The above arm may include a coupling portion to which the above link is joined. The line connecting the rotational center of the above connecting gear and the coupling portion may overlap with the above receiving portion.

[0053] The above receiving portion may be formed by the upper surface of the arm being sunken downward, or by the lower surface of the arm being sunken upward.

[0054] The area or volume of the link accommodated in the receiving portion when the door is closed may be larger than the area or volume of the link accommodated in the receiving portion when the door is open.

[0055] In at least some of the entire section where the door is opened, the minimum distance between the center of rotation of the link and the connecting gear can be increased.

[0056] The above link may include a first connecting part rotatably connected to the arm. The connecting gear rotates in one direction to open the door, and in the closed state of the door, the center of rotation of the connecting gear may be located closer to the front of the door than the center of rotation of the first connecting part.

[0057] In the open state of the door, the rotation center of the first connecting part may be located closer to the front of the door than the rotation center of the connecting gear.

[0058] When a line perpendicular to the front of the door and passing through the center of rotation of the connecting gear is called a virtual line, in the closed state of the door, the center of rotation of the first connecting part may be located between the first operating part and the virtual line, or the center of rotation of the first connecting part may be located on the opposite side of the first operating part with respect to the virtual line.

[0059] In the open state of the door, the rotation center of the first connecting part may be located on the opposite side of the first operating part with respect to the virtual line.

[0060] The above link includes a first connecting part rotatably connected to the arm, and the connecting gear rotates in the other direction to open the door, and in the closed state of the door, the distance between the center of rotation of the connecting gear and the front of the door may be the same as or different from the distance between the center of rotation of the first connecting part and the front of the door.

[0061] In the open state of the door, the rotation center of the first connecting part may be located closer to the front of the door than the rotation center of the connecting gear.

[0062] The above link includes a second connecting part that is rotatably connected to the door, and when a line passing through the center of rotation of the connecting gear that is perpendicular to the front of the door is called a virtual line, in the closed state of the door, the center of rotation of the first connecting part may be located between the first operating part and the virtual line, or the virtual line may be located between the center of rotation of the first connecting part and the center of rotation of the second connecting part.

[0063] In the open state of the door, the rotation center of the first connecting part may be located between the first operating part and the virtual line, or the virtual line may be located between the rotation center of the first connecting part and the rotation center of the second connecting part.

[0064] A refrigerator according to another aspect comprises: a cabinet having a storage compartment; a door for opening and closing the storage compartment; a hinge mechanism for enabling the door to rotate on the cabinet; and a door opening and closing device for opening and closing the door, wherein the door opening and closing device comprises a driving unit for generating power, a power transmission unit for transmitting power from the driving unit, and a door opening unit that receives power from the driving unit and operates to open the door to a set angle, wherein the door opening unit comprises a connecting gear that receives power from the power transmission unit and a link, one end of which is connected to the connecting gear and the other end of which is connected to the door, and in the closed state of the door, at least a portion of the link may overlap with the connecting gear in the vertical direction.

[0065] The above link includes a first connecting part that is rotatably connected to the above connecting gear, and a line connecting the rotational center of the above connecting gear and the rotational center of the first connecting part may overlap with the receiving part.

[0066] The above power transmission unit includes a plurality of gears, and the connecting gear includes a gear portion that can be connected to one of the plurality of gears, and the gear portion can overlap with the one gear in an up-and-down direction.

[0067] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage that the opening angle of the door increases when the door is automatically opened.

[0068] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage that the door can not only be opened automatically but also closed automatically.

[0069] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that excessive load can be reduced on the drive unit during the initial automatic opening of the door.

[0070] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage that the door can be opened automatically, as well as manually by the user.

[0071] According to one embodiment, when the door is opened manually, damage to the drive unit for automatic opening is prevented, and there is an advantage of reduced operating noise.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the connecting gear and the link are joined so that they overlap in the vertical direction and prevent interference, thus having the advantage of reducing the height and / or size of the door opening and closing device.

[0073] According to one embodiment, when the height of the door opening / closing device is reduced, there is an advantage that the height of the cover member covering the door opening / closing device can also be reduced.

[0074] According to one embodiment, there is an advantage in that the structure for opening the door can be reduced from being exposed to the outside when the door is closed and / or when the door is open.

[0075] According to one embodiment, when the door is open, the second operating part is spaced apart from the hinge cover by a certain distance or more, so there is an advantage that the user's finger can be prevented from being pinched between the second operating part and the hinge cover.

[0076] FIG. 1 (a) is a plan view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 1 (b) is a drawing showing the state in which the cover member is removed from FIG. 1 (a).

[0077] FIG. 2(a) is a drawing showing a state in which a door opening / closing device and a cover member are separated from a refrigerator according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 2(b) is a drawing showing a state in which a door opening / closing device and a cover member are mounted on a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.

[0078] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a cover member and a door opening / closing device according to a first embodiment.

[0079] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a refrigerator showing the state in which the second frame is removed from the door opening and closing device installed in the refrigerator according to the first embodiment.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the state in which the second frame is removed from the door opening and closing device according to the first embodiment.

[0081] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the internal configuration of a door opening and closing device according to a first embodiment.

[0082] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second operating part according to a first embodiment.

[0083] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a connecting gear and a link according to a first embodiment.

[0084] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along 9-9 of Fig. 7.

[0085] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a state in which a door opening and closing device according to a first embodiment is connected to a door.

[0086] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along 11-11 of FIG. 10.

[0087] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a door opening and closing device in a closed state according to the first embodiment.

[0088] FIG. 13 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment.

[0089] FIGS. 14 to 19 are drawings showing the process of a door opening automatically.

[0090] FIGS. 20 to 22 are drawings showing the process of a door closing automatically.

[0091] FIGS. 23 and 24 are drawings showing the process of opening a door manually.

[0092] FIG. 25 is a drawing for illustrating the range of positionable links when the connecting gear is rotated in one direction when the hinge mechanism includes a single pin.

[0093] FIG. 26 is a drawing for illustrating the range of positionable links when the connecting gear is rotated in the other direction when the hinge mechanism includes a single pin.

[0094] FIG. 27 is a drawing for explaining the range of positionable links when the connecting gear is rotated in one direction when the hinge mechanism includes a plurality of pins.

[0095] FIG. 28 is a drawing showing a first movement path of the rotation center of a first connection part of a link when the hinge mechanism includes a single pin, and a second movement path of the rotation center of a first connection part of a link when the hinge mechanism includes a plurality of pins.

[0096] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a second operating part according to a second embodiment.

[0097] FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of a second operating part according to a second embodiment.

[0098] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. It should be noted that in assigning reference numerals to the components of each drawing, the same components are given the same reference numeral whenever possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the embodiments of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions would hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such detailed description is omitted.

[0099] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention. These terms are intended only to distinguish the components from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the components is not limited by the terms. Where it is stated that a component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected, combined, or connected to the other component, but that another component may also be "connected," "combined," or "connected" between each component.

[0100] In this specification, at least one of component A and component B may be interpreted as comprising component A, component B, or component A+B.

[0101] Additionally, at least one of component A or component B may be interpreted as including component A, component B, or component A+B.

[0102] In this specification, the front of the door is the surface forming the front exterior of the door, and the rear of the door is the surface facing the cabinet or storage room.

[0103] In addition, embodiments derived by combining the features of some embodiments and the features of other embodiments may also be included in the scope of the present invention.

[0104] FIG. 1 (a) is a plan view of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 1 (b) is a drawing showing the state in which the cover member is removed from FIG. 1 (a).

[0105] FIG. 2(a) is a drawing showing the state in which the door opening / closing device and the cover member are separated from the refrigerator according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2(b) is a drawing showing the state in which the door opening / closing device and the cover member are mounted on the refrigerator according to the first embodiment.

[0106] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a cover member and a door opening / closing device according to a first embodiment.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigerator (1) according to the present embodiment may include a cabinet (10) having a storage room (12) and a door (20) for opening and closing the storage room (12).

[0108] The storage room (12) may include, for example, a refrigerator room. Or, the storage room (12) may include, for example, a freezer room. Or, although not illustrated, the storage room (12) may include additional storage rooms.

[0109] The door (20) may be a refrigerator door or a freezer door. The door (20) may include a first door (21) that opens and closes a part of the storage room (12). The door (20) may further include a second door (22) that opens and closes another part of the storage room (12). Alternatively, a single door (20) may open and close a single storage room (12) or open and close multiple storage rooms (12) simultaneously.

[0110] Each of the first door (21) and the second door (22) may be composed of a single door. Alternatively, one or more of the first door (21) and the second door (22) may include a main door and a sub door.

[0111] The refrigerator of the present embodiment may further include a door opening / closing device (30, 31) for opening the door (20). If the door (20) includes a plurality of doors (21, 22), the door opening / closing device (30, 31) may open some or all of the plurality of doors (21, 22). If the refrigerator (1) includes a single door (20), the refrigerator (1) may include a single door opening / closing device.

[0112] FIG. 1 illustrates, for example, that the first door (21) and the second door (22) are each automatically opened and closed by door opening and closing devices (30, 31). That is, the refrigerator (1) may include a first door opening and closing device (30) and a second door opening and closing device (31).

[0113] Each door opening / closing device (30, 31) is arranged in a symmetrical shape, and the structure may be the same.

[0114] Each of the first door (21) and the second door (22) can be rotatably connected to the cabinet (10) by a hinge mechanism (120). The hinge mechanism (120) can be covered by a hinge cover (130).

[0115] The hinge mechanism (120) may be installed, for example, on the upper surface of the cabinet (10). Accordingly, a pair of hinge mechanisms (120) may be spaced apart and arranged on the upper surface of the cabinet (10).

[0116] The hinge mechanism (120) may include a pin unit. The pin unit may include a plurality of spaced-apart pins. When the pin unit includes a plurality of pins, the center of rotation of the door (20) may move during the opening and closing process of the door (20).

[0117] As another example, the pin unit may include a single pin. If the pin unit includes a single pin, the rotation center of the door (20) may be fixed in position during the opening and closing process of the door (20).

[0118] As another example, a multi-joint hinge unit including a plurality of bodies may be used as the hinge mechanism (120).

[0119] Each of the above door opening / closing devices (30, 31) may be located on the upper side of the cabinet (10). Each of the above door opening / closing devices (30, 31) may be located adjacent to the hinge mechanism (120) between the pair of hinge mechanisms (120).

[0120] As another example, the door opening / closing device (30, 31) may be located on the lower side or on the side of the cabinet (10). Alternatively, the door opening / closing device (30, 31) may be housed within the cabinet (10), and a structure for opening the door may protrude outside the cabinet (10).

[0121] The refrigerator (1) may further include a cover member (110). The cover member (110) may be installed on the upper surface of the cabinet (10).

[0122] The cover member (110) can cover at least a portion of each door opening / closing device (30, 31). The cover member (110) can cover at least a portion of the hinge mechanism (120). The cover member (110) can cover at least a portion of the hinge cover (130).

[0123] Each of the above door opening / closing devices (30, 31) may be installed on the upper surface of the cabinet (10) or on the cover member (110). When each of the above door opening / closing devices (30, 31) is installed on the cover member (110), the cover member (110) may be installed on the upper surface of the cabinet (10) after each of the above door opening / closing devices (30, 31) is installed on the cover member (110).

[0124] In the present embodiment, a single cover member (110) may simultaneously cover a pair of door opening / closing devices (30, 31) and a pair of hinge covers (130), but is not limited thereto. For example, it is also possible for multiple cover members (110) to individually cover each of a pair of door opening / closing devices (30, 31) and a pair of hinge covers (130). Alternatively, it is also possible for the cover member (110) not to cover the pair of door opening / closing devices (30, 31).

[0125] The above cover member (110) may include a cover body (111). The above cover member (110) may include a perimeter portion (112) extending from the cover body (111). The perimeter portion (112) may extend downward from the edge of the cover body (111).

[0126] The cover member (110) may include a coupling portion (113) for coupling the door opening / closing device (30, 31). For example, a plurality of coupling portions (113) may protrude from the cover body (111). The door opening / closing device (30, 31) may include a cushioning member (32). The cushioning member (32) can absorb vibrations generated during the operation of the door opening / closing device (30, 31) or reduce the transmission of vibrations to the cover member (110) installed in the cabinet (10), thereby reducing noise caused by vibrations. The cushioning member (32) may be coupled to the coupling portion (113).

[0127] The cover member (110) may include a first slot (114). The first slot (114) may be formed in the periphery (112). The first slot (114) may provide a space for the hinge cover (130) to be positioned.

[0128] The cover member (110) may further include a second slot (115). The second slot (115) may be formed in the periphery (112). The second slot (115) may provide a space for a second operating part, which will be described later, to be positioned or moved.

[0129] The cover member (110) may further include a third slot (116). The third slot (116) may be formed in the periphery (112). The third slot (116) may provide a space for the first operating part, which will be described later, to be positioned or moved.

[0130] The second slot (115) may be located between the first slot (114) and the third slot (116).

[0131] Below, the door opening and closing device (30, 31) will be described in detail. At this time, the door opening and closing device (30, 31) will be collectively referred to as the "door opening and closing device (30)".

[0132] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a refrigerator showing a state in which the second frame is removed from a door opening and closing device installed in a refrigerator according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 5 is a plan view showing a state in which the second frame is removed from a door opening and closing device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the internal configuration of a door opening and closing device according to a first embodiment.

[0133] In Fig. 4, the cover member was removed.

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, in the case of the present embodiment, the door (20) can be automatically opened by the door opening / closing device (30). In addition, the door (20) can be opened manually by a user.

[0135] A part of the door opening / closing device (30) may be connected to the upper (or lower) side of the door (20).

[0136] A gasket (220) that limits cold air leakage of the storage room (12) may be provided between the door (20) and the cabinet (10). For example, the gasket (220) may be attached to the door (20). A magnet may be provided inside the gasket (220). The gasket (220) may be maintained in contact with the cabinet (10) by means of the magnet.

[0137] The door (20) may be rotatably connected to the cabinet (10) by a hinge mechanism (120). The door (20) may include a hinge mounting portion (210). The hinge mounting portion (210) may be formed by the rear surface of the door (20) being recessed toward the front. Alternatively, the hinge mounting portion (210) may be formed by one of the two sides of the door (20) being recessed toward the other side.

[0138] The hinge mechanism (120) may be installed on the bottom of the hinge mounting portion (210). The hinge mounting portion (210) may have a pin slot formed therein for receiving the pin unit, or a guide member forming the pin slot may be provided. If the pin unit includes a plurality of pins, the guide member may include a plurality of pin slots or a single pin slot.

[0139] The door opening / closing device (30) of the present embodiment may include a driving unit (302). The driving unit (302) may include, for example, a motor capable of rotating in both directions. The driving unit (302) may be controlled by a driving unit PCB (304).

[0140] The above door opening / closing device (30) may further include a power transmission unit (350) for transmitting power from the driving unit (302).

[0141] The above door opening / closing device (30) may further include a first operating part (330) (or a first door opening part) that operates by receiving power from the power transmission part (350).

[0142] The above door opening / closing device (30) may further include a second operating part (400) (or a second door opening part) that operates by receiving power from the power transmission part (350).

[0143] In the process of automatically opening the door (20), the first operating part (330) and the second operating part (400) can operate sequentially. In the process of automatically closing the door, the second operating part (400) acts as a door closing part that causes the door to close.

[0144] The above power transmission unit (350) may include a plurality of gears.

[0145] The door opening / closing device (30) may further include a frame (310). A plurality of gears may be rotatably supported on the frame (310). The frame (310) may cover or support at least a portion of the components constituting the door opening / closing device (30).

[0146] For example, the plurality of gears may include first to sixth gears (351, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356).

[0147] However, it should be noted that there is no limit to the number of gears in this embodiment. Additionally, it should be noted that there is no limit to the shape of the gears.

[0148] The first gear (351) may be connected to the shaft of the drive unit (302). The second to sixth gears (352 to 356) may be reduction gears. The second gear (352) may be connected to the first gear (351). The third gear (353) may be connected to the second gear (352). The fourth gear (354) may be connected to the third gear (353).

[0149] The fifth gear (355) can be connected to the fourth gear (354). The sixth gear (356) can be connected to the fourth gear (354) at a position spaced apart from the fifth gear (355).

[0150] In this embodiment, the fourth gear (354) may be named a distribution gear or a common gear. That is, when the fourth gear (354) rotates, the fifth gear (355) and the sixth gear (356) can rotate simultaneously.

[0151] As another example, it is possible for the fifth gear (355) to be connected to the fourth gear (354), and for the sixth gear (356) to be connected to the fifth gear (355). Alternatively, it is possible for the sixth gear (356) to be connected to a gear connected to the fourth gear (354) or the fifth gear (355).

[0152] The fifth gear (355) can transmit power to the first operating part (330). Therefore, the fifth gear (355) can be named the first transmission gear or the first transmission part.

[0153] The sixth gear (356) can transmit power to the second operating part (400). Therefore, the sixth gear (356) can be named the second transmission gear or the second transmission part.

[0154] One or more of the above second to sixth gears (352 to 356) may be two-stage gears having parts with different diameters.

[0155] The fifth gear (355) can transmit power to the first operating unit (330) in some sections of the automatic opening process of the door (20). For example, the fifth gear (355) can transmit power to the first operating unit (330) in the initial section of the automatic opening process. The fifth gear (355) can block power transmission to the first operating unit (330) in other sections of the automatic opening process. That is, the fifth gear (355) can block power transmitted to the first operating unit (330) during the rotation process. Therefore, the fifth gear (355) can be named the first clutch gear.

[0156] The fourth gear (354) may include a first part (354a) and a second part (354b). The diameter of the first part (354a) may be larger than the diameter of the second part (354b). Each of the first part (354a) and the second part (354b) may have gear teeth or teeth formed around its entire circumference.

[0157] The first part (354a) above can be connected to the third gear (353).

[0158] The fifth gear (355) may include a first part (355a) and a second part (355b). The diameter of the first part (355a) may be larger than the diameter of the second part (355b). Gear teeth or teeth may be formed entirely around the circumference of the first part (355a). The first part (355a) may mesh with the second part (354b) of the fourth gear (354). Gear teeth or teeth (355c) may be formed only on a portion of the circumference of the second part (355b). That is, the fifth gear (355) may include partial gears.

[0159] The second part (355b) may optionally be connected to the first operating part (330). With the tooth part (355c) of the second part (355b) connected to the first operating part (330), the rotational force of the fifth gear (355) may be transmitted to the first operating part (330).

[0160] The sixth gear (356) may include a first part (356a) and a second part (356b). The diameter of the first part (356a) may be larger than the diameter of the second part (356b). Gear teeth or teeth may be formed entirely around the circumference of the first part (356a). The first part (356a) may mesh with the second part (354b) of the fourth gear (354). Gear teeth or teeth (356c) may be formed only on a portion of the circumference of the second part (356b). That is, the sixth gear (356) may include partial gears.

[0161] In this embodiment, the partial gear can be applied to a gear that rotates less than 360 degrees over the entire automatic opening section of the door (20).

[0162] The second part (356b) above may be connected to a connecting gear (360) to be described later. With the tooth portion (356c) of the second part (356b) connected to the connecting gear (360), the rotational force of the sixth gear (356) can be transmitted to the connecting gear (360).

[0163] The fifth gear (355) may include a marker (355c) for guiding the mounting position when mounted on the frame (310). The marker (355c) may be a groove or a protrusion, or a member attached to the fifth gear (355). Since the second part (355b) of the fifth gear (355) is a partial gear, it must be mounted in the correct position to operate normally.

[0164] The sixth gear (356) may include a marker (356e) for guiding the mounting position when mounted on the frame (310). The marker (356e) may be a groove or a protrusion, or a member attached to the sixth gear (356). Since the second part (356b) of the sixth gear (356) is a partial gear, it must be mounted in the correct position to operate normally.

[0165] The first operating part (330) can receive power from the driving part (302) while connected to the fifth gear (355).

[0166] The first operating part (330) may be installed to be movable in the first axial direction on the frame (310). The first axial direction may be, for example, the arrangement direction of the door (20) and the cabinet (10) or the front-rear direction of the refrigerator (1).

[0167] The first operating unit (330) can receive power from the driving unit (302) during the initial section of the automatic opening process and act to separate the gasket (220) from the cabinet (10). Therefore, the first operating unit (330) can also be referred to as a gasket separation unit.

[0168] The first operating part (330) may include a first member (331). The first member (331) may be optionally connected to the fifth gear (355). The first member (331) may be referred to as a rack.

[0169] The first operating part (330) may further include a second member (340). The second member (340) may push the door (20) during the automatic opening process of the door (20). The second member (340) may be called a pusher.

[0170] The first member (331) and the second member (340) may be arranged in the first axis direction. The first member (331) and the second member (340) may be arranged in a straight line, for example. Alternatively, it is possible for a part of the first member (331) to be arranged in a second axis direction that intersects the second member (340) and the first axis direction.

[0171] The door opening / closing device (30) may further include a first elastic member (370). The first elastic member (370) may connect the second member (340) and the frame (310).

[0172] The door opening / closing device (30) may further include a second elastic member (372). The second elastic member (372) may connect the first member (331) and the second member (340). The second elastic member (372) may act to cause the first member (331) and the second member (340) to move together during the automatic opening process of the door (20).

[0173] Unless an external force is applied, the first member (331) and the second member (340) can be in contact by the second elastic member (372). During the automatic opening process of the door (20), the first member (331) and the second member (340) can move while in contact.

[0174] The first elastic member (370) may be a coil spring. The second elastic member (372) may be a coil spring. The length of the first elastic member (370) may be the same as or different from the length of the second elastic member (372). Since the travel distance of the first operating part (330) during the automatic opening process is greater than the travel distance of the first member (331) during the automatic closing process, the length of the first elastic member (370) may be greater than the length of the second elastic member (372).

[0175] As another example, one or more of the first elastic member (370) and the second elastic member (372) may be in the form of a torsion spring or a leaf spring.

[0176] The second operating unit (400) may further include a connecting gear (360) (or link gear). The connecting gear (360) may be optionally connected to the sixth gear (356). The sixth gear (356) may cut off power transmitted to the second operating unit (400) during rotation. Therefore, the sixth gear (356) may be named the first clutch gear. The connecting gear (360) may receive power from the driving unit (302) and rotate in the forward or reverse direction.

[0177] The second operating part (400) may include a link (410). The link (410) may be connected to the connecting gear (360). For example, the link (410) may be connected to the connecting gear (360) so as to be rotatable relative to it. At least a portion of the link (410) may be rounded. That is, the link (420) may include a curved portion. The link (410) may operate to open the door (20) to a set angle (maximum opening angle). Alternatively, it is possible for the link (420) to include a straight portion.

[0178] For example, when the door (20) is closed, the link (410) may be formed to be convex in a direction closer to the connecting gear (360) with respect to the line connecting the rotation center of the first connecting part and the rotation center of the second connecting part, which will be described later. Alternatively, the link (410) may be formed to be convex in a direction further away from the connecting gear (360). Alternatively, the link (410) may be formed to be convex in a direction closer to the first operating part (330). Alternatively, the link (410) may be formed to be convex in a direction closer to the driving part (302) or convex in a direction further away from the driving part (302). Alternatively, the link (410) may be formed to be convex in a direction closer to the door (20) or convex in a direction further away from the door (20).

[0179] The above connecting gear (360) may include a gear portion (362) comprising a plurality of gear teeth or tooth parts and an arm (364) to which the link (410) is connected. The arm (364) may include a coupling portion (366) to which the link (410) is coupled. The coupling portion (366) may include, for example, a coupling hole, but is not limited thereto.

[0180] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second operating part according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a connecting gear and a link according to a first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along 9-9 of FIG. 7.

[0181] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 9, the connecting gear (360) may include a body (361a) including a shaft hole (361).

[0182] The shaft hole (361) can be connected to a shaft provided in the frame (310). The rotational center of the connecting gear (360) can be located on the shaft hole (361).

[0183] The above connecting gear (360) may include a gear portion (362). The gear portion (362) may extend from the body (361a). The gear portion (362) may be connected to the power transmission portion (350). For example, the gear portion (362) of the connecting gear (360) may be optionally connected to the tooth portion (356c) of the second portion (356b) of the sixth gear (356).

[0184] The gear portion (362) may be formed in a fan shape, for example. That is, the angle formed by the gear portion (362) may be less than 360 degrees. A plurality of gear teeth (362a) or teeth portions of the gear portion (362) may be formed within an angle range less than 360 degrees.

[0185] The height of the gear section (362) may be lower than the height of the body (361a). For example, the upper surface of the gear section (362) may be positioned lower than the upper surface of the body (361a). Due to the height difference between the body (361a) and the gear section (362), one of the gears among the plurality of gears may be positioned on the upper side of the gear section (362). For example, a part of the sixth gear (356) may be positioned on the upper side of the gear section (362). For example, the first part (356a) of the sixth gear (356) may overlap with the gear section (362) in the vertical direction. By this structure, the height and / or size of the door opening and closing device may be reduced. As another example, it is also possible for the lower surface of the gear section (362) to be positioned higher than the lower surface of the body (361a). In this case, the 6th gear (356) or a part of another gear may be located on the lower side of the gear section (362).

[0186] The above connecting gear (360) may further include an arm (364) to which the link (410) is connected. The arm (364) may extend from the body (361a).

[0187] The above arm (364) can be positioned on the opposite side of a portion of the gear tooth (362a) of the gear part (362) with respect to the shaft hole (361).

[0188] The body (361a) or arm (364) may include a first groove (363) to prevent interference with the first gear. For example, the body (361a) or arm (364) may include a first groove (363) to prevent interference with the sixth gear (356). A part of the sixth gear (356) may be positioned in the first groove (363).

[0189] The surface forming the first groove (363) may be a curved surface. By means of the first groove (363), the connecting gear (360) can be positioned close to the sixth gear (356), thereby preventing mutual interference.

[0190] The above arm (364) may include a second groove (363a) to prevent interference with the first gear. By the second groove (363a), interference between the arm (364) and the fourth gear (354) can be prevented. For example, a first part (354a) of the fourth gear (354) may be positioned in the second groove (363a).

[0191] The above arm (364) may have the above-mentioned connecting portion (366) formed thereon. The above-mentioned link (410) may be rotatably connected to the above-mentioned connecting portion (366).

[0192] The distance (D1) from the center of rotation of the connecting gear (360) (or the center of the shaft hole (361)) to the connecting part (366) may be greater than the distance (D2) from the center of rotation of the connecting gear (360) (or the center of the shaft hole (361)) to the gear tooth (362a) (or the radius of the gear part (362)).

[0193] Therefore, when the connecting gear (360) is rotated by a unit angle, the travel distance of the arm (364) increases, and accordingly, the travel distance of the link (410) can increase.

[0194] In addition, there is an advantage in that the travel distance of the link (410) can be increased while reducing the diameter of the gear part (362).

[0195] The above arm (364) may include a receiving portion (365) in which a part of the link (410) is received while the link (410) is connected. The receiving portion (365) may be formed, for example, by a part of the lower surface of the arm (364) being sunk upward. Accordingly, a part of the link (410) may be located on the lower side of the arm (364).

[0196] With the link (410) positioned in the receiving portion (365), the arm (364) can overlap with the link (410) in the vertical direction. Therefore, an increase in the size, height, or volume of the door opening and closing device can be prevented.

[0197] At least a portion of the receiving portion (365) may be located between the shaft hole (361) and the coupling portion (366). This arrangement may help reduce the size of the door opening / closing device by increasing the overlapping area of ​​the link (410) and the arm (364).

[0198] The line connecting the shaft hole (361) (or the rotational center of the connecting gear) and the coupling part (366) (or the rotational center of the first connecting part) may overlap with the receiving part (365) (e.g., in the up-down direction).

[0199] Among the surfaces forming the above-mentioned receiving portion (365), the surface (365a) facing the side of the link (410) may include a straight section, a curved section, or both a straight section and a curved section.

[0200] If the above link (410) includes a curved section, a part of the curved section may be located in the receiving section (365). Even if the above link (410) includes a straight section, at least a part of the straight section may be located in the receiving section (365).

[0201] When the above link (410) is connected to the above door (20) and the door (20) sags, the second connecting part (415) of the above link (410) moves downward together with the door (20), while the first connecting part (413) located on the opposite side is lifted upward.

[0202] As in the present embodiment, when the link (410) is positioned on the lower side of the arm (364), the arm (364) may restrict the upward movement of the first connecting part (413) of the link (410). In this case, the upward movement of the first pin (430), which will be described later, may be restricted, thereby preventing friction between the first pin (430) and one side of the frame (310), which has the advantage of preventing friction. Additionally, if the upward movement of the first connecting part (413) is restricted, interference between the link (410) that has passed through the second slot (115) of the cover member (110) and the cover member (110) may be prevented.

[0203] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 9, when the link (410) is connected to the arm (364), the sum of the heights of the arm (364) and the link (410) may be smaller than the height of the internal space of the frame (310).

[0204] Based on FIG. 6, in which the door (20) is closed, the minimum distance (L1) between the center of rotation of the connecting gear (360) and the link (410) when the link (410) is positioned in the receiving portion (365) may be smaller than the radius (D2) of the gear portion (362).

[0205] Therefore, since the link (410) can be positioned close to the center of rotation of the connecting gear (360), the size of the door opening / closing device (e.g., the width based on FIG. 6) can be reduced.

[0206] When the door (20) is closed, one or more of the plurality of gear teeth (362a) may be positioned closer to the front of the door (20) than to the coupling part (366).

[0207] In another aspect, the connecting gear (360) may include a rotation center.

[0208] The connecting gear (360) may include a connecting portion (366) spaced apart from the center of rotation by a first distance. The connecting gear (360) may include a tooth portion (362a) spaced apart from the center of rotation by a second distance. The first distance may be greater than the second distance.

[0209] The second distance from the center of rotation of the connecting gear (360) to the tooth portion (362a) of the connecting gear (360) may be greater than the third distance from the center of rotation of the second portion (356b) to the tooth portion (356c) of the second portion (356b).

[0210] The distance between the gear tooth of the above tooth portion (362a) and the above coupling portion (366) may be smaller than the first distance between the center of rotation and the above coupling portion (366).

[0211] The distance between the other gear tooth of the above tooth portion (362a) and the above coupling portion (366) may be greater than the first distance between the rotation center and the above coupling portion (366).

[0212] The area from the rotational center of the connecting gear (360) to the coupling part (366) can be called the first area. The area from the rotational center of the connecting gear (360) to the tooth part (362a) can be called the second area. The first area can be called the arm part, and the second area can be called the gear part (362).

[0213] The above link (410) may include a link body (411).

[0214] The above link (410) may include a first connecting part (413) provided on one side of the link body (411). The first connecting part (413) may be connected to the arm (364) by a first connecting mechanism (420).

[0215] The above link (410) may include a second connecting part (415) provided on the other side of the link body (411). The second connecting part (415) may be connected to the door (20) by a second connecting mechanism (460).

[0216] The link body (411) may be received in the receiving portion (365) of the connecting gear (360). The area or volume of the portion of the link body (411) (or link) received in the receiving portion (365) may vary during the opening process of the door (20).

[0217] For example, the area or volume of the link body (411) (or link) received in the receiving portion (365) when the door (20) is closed (or in the first position of the connecting gear) may be larger than the area or volume of the link body (411) (or link) received in the receiving portion (365) when the door (20) is open (or in the second position of the connecting gear).

[0218] That is, a part of the link body (411) contained in the receiving portion (365) may be removed from the receiving portion (365) during the opening process of the door (20).

[0219] Additionally, both sides of the link body (411) may include a first side located adjacent to the rotation center of the connecting gear (360) and a second side located opposite the first side.

[0220] When the door (20) is closed, the length of the portion received in the receiving portion (365) from the first side may be greater than the length of the portion received in the receiving portion (365) from the second side.

[0221] In at least some of the entire section where the door (20) is opened, the minimum distance between the link body (411) (or link) and the center of rotation of the connecting gear (360) can be increased.

[0222] At least a portion of the link body (411) may overlap horizontally with the gear portion (362) of the connecting gear (360).

[0223] The vertical length (or height) of the first connecting part (413) may be the same as or different from the vertical length (height) of the link body (411).

[0224] The vertical length (or height) of the second connecting part (415) may be equal to or greater than the vertical length (height) of the link body (411). If the vertical length (or height) of the second connecting part (415) is greater than the vertical length (height) of the link body (411), the area applied to the second connecting part (415) during the operation of the link (410) is increased, thereby preventing damage to the second connecting part (415).

[0225] The first connecting mechanism (420) may include a first pin (430). The first pin (430) may provide a rotational center of the link (410) relative to the connecting gear (360). The first pin (430) may include an extension end (432). The extension end (432) may extend outward from the outer surface of the first pin (430). For example, the extension end (432) may extend horizontally from the lower side of the first pin (430).

[0226] The first connecting mechanism (420) may further include a bushing (421). The bushing (421) may include a body (422). The first pin (430) may penetrate the body (422). The vertical length of the first pin (430) may be greater than the vertical length of the body (422). The body (422) may include a hole (424) through which the first pin (430) penetrates.

[0227] The bushing (421) may include an extension (423). The extension (423) may extend outward from the outer surface of the body (422). For example, the extension (423) may extend horizontally from the lower side of the body (422).

[0228] The first connecting portion (413) of the above link (410) may be provided with a first hole (414) in which the bushing (421) is received. Alternatively, the first connecting portion (413) may include a first groove in which a part of the bushing (421) is received.

[0229] A part of the body (422) is received in the first hole (414), and the extension (423) can support the first connection (413).

[0230] The first pin (430) can pass through the coupling portion (366) of the bushing (421) and the connecting gear (360).

[0231] A portion of the first pin (430) passing through the coupling portion (366) may protrude to the outside of the connecting gear (360), and a coupling ring (440) may be coupled to a portion of the first pin (430). A coupling groove (434) for coupling the coupling ring (440) may be formed in a portion of the first pin (430). The coupling ring (440) may prevent the link (410) and the connecting gear (360) from being separated from the first pin (430).

[0232] As another example, the coupling ring (440) may be omitted, and the end of the first pin (430) may be modified in a riveting manner to limit the separation of the link (410).

[0233] The link (410) may be formed from a material with high rigidity, for example, a metal material. The first pin (430) may be formed from a material with high rigidity, for example, a metal material. The bushing (421) may be formed from a non-metal material. Direct contact between the first pin (430) and the link (410) is prevented by the bushing (421), thereby reducing wear and / or noise caused by direct friction between the link (410) and the first pin (430).

[0234] The bushing (421) may be provided with a receiving groove (425) for receiving an extension end (432) of the first pin (430). When the extension end (432) is received in the receiving groove (425), the movement of the first pin (430) in one direction (upward direction in the drawing) may be restricted.

[0235] With the connecting gear (360) and the link (410) combined by the first connecting mechanism (420), the lower surface of the first pin (430) can be positioned higher than the lower surface of the bushing (421).

[0236] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a door opening / closing device according to a first embodiment connected to a door, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along 11-11 of FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a door opening / closing device according to a first embodiment with the door closed.

[0237] Referring to FIG. 8 and FIG. 10 to FIG. 12, the second connecting mechanism (460) can be connected to the door (20).

[0238] For example, the second connecting mechanism (460) can be coupled to the bottom surface (211) of the hinge mounting part (210).

[0239] The second connecting mechanism (460) can be connected to the door (20) at a position spaced apart from the hinge mechanism (120).

[0240] The second connecting mechanism (460) may include a connecting body (461) for connecting to the door (20). The connecting body (461) may include a connecting hole (462, 462a) through which a connecting member for connecting to the door (20) passes. For stable connection of the connecting body (461), the connecting body (461) may include a plurality of connecting holes (462, 462a).

[0241] A receiving groove (211a) for receiving the coupling body (461) may be formed on the bottom surface (211) of the hinge mounting part (210).

[0242] The second connecting mechanism (460) may include a second pin (463) that provides a rotational center of the link (410) with respect to the door (20). The second pin (463) may extend upward from the connecting body (461). The second pin (463) may be formed integrally with the connecting body (461) or may be coupled to the connecting body (461).

[0243] The second connecting mechanism (460) may further include a bushing (470). The second pin (463) may penetrate the bushing (470). The vertical length of the second pin (463) may be longer than the vertical length of the bushing (470).

[0244] The bushing (470) can pass through the second connecting part (415) of the link (410).

[0245] The vertical length of the bushing (470) may be greater than the vertical length of the second connecting part (415).

[0246] The bushing (470) may include an extension (472). The extension (472) may extend outward from the outer surface of the bushing (470). For example, the extension (472) may extend horizontally from the lower side of the bushing (470). The extension (472) may be seated on the coupling body (461). Of course, the extension (472) may be omitted.

[0247] With the second pin (463) penetrating the bushing (470), a portion of the second pin (463) may protrude upward from the bushing (470).

[0248] The second connecting mechanism (460) may further include a cover plate (480). The second pin (463) protruding above the bushing (470) may penetrate the cover plate (480).

[0249] The outer diameter of the cover plate (480) may be larger than the outer diameter of at least a portion of the bushing (470). The cover plate (480) may be seated on the bushing (470).

[0250] The second connecting mechanism (460) may further include a connecting ring (482) that is coupled to the second pin (463) penetrating the cover plate (480).

[0251] As another example, the bushing (470) may be omitted. In this case, since the link (410) may come into contact with the second pin (463), a lubricant may be provided at the contact area between the link (410) and the second pin (463) to reduce friction between the link (410) and the second pin (463).

[0252] Meanwhile, the door (20) may include a door liner (214) that forms part of the exterior of the door (20). The door liner (214) may cover the storage room (12) or be accommodated in the storage room (12) when the door (20) is closed.

[0253] The door liner (214) may be provided with a gasket coupling portion (215) to which the gasket (220) is coupled. The gasket coupling portion (215) may be formed by a portion of the door liner (214) being recessed toward the front (20a) of the door (20) so as to accommodate the gasket (220).

[0254] With the above-mentioned coupling body (461) received in the receiving groove (211a), a coupling member can be coupled to the door (20) by penetrating the receiving groove (211a).

[0255] At this time, the coupling holes (462, 462a) may be arranged so as not to overlap with the gasket coupling part (215) in the vertical direction, so as to prevent interference with the gasket coupling part (215) during the process of the coupling member being coupled to the door (20). If the coupling holes (462, 462a) are arranged so as not to overlap with the gasket coupling part (215) in the vertical direction, the coupling member fastened to the coupling holes (462, 462a) may be prevented from interfering with the gasket (220) or the gasket coupling part (215). Accordingly, damage to the gasket (220) or the gasket coupling part (215) may be prevented.

[0256] Referring to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 together, the distance (D3) (minimum distance) between the joint hole (462) and the front (20a) of the door (20) is smaller than the distance (D4) between the gasket joint part (215) and the front (20a) of the door (20).

[0257] In the case where multiple coupling holes (462, 462a) are provided, the distance (minimum distance) between each of the multiple coupling holes (462, 462a) and the front surface (20a) of the door (20) is smaller than the distance (D4) (minimum distance) between the gasket coupling part (215) and the front surface (20a) of the door (20).

[0258] At this time, the other coupling hole (462a) may be positioned closer to one side (20c) of the door (20) than to the rotation center (C1) of the link (410) with respect to the door (20). One side (20c) of the door (20) refers to the side that is located adjacent to the hinge mechanism (120) among the two sides.

[0259] The rotation center (C1) of the above link (410) can pass through the gasket joint (215). The distance (D4) (minimum distance) between the gasket joint (215) and the front (20a) of the door (20) may be equal to or smaller than the distance (D5) between the rotation center (C1) and the front (20a) of the door (20).

[0260] Alternatively, the distance (D4) (minimum distance) between the gasket coupling portion (215) and the front surface (20a) of the door (20) may be greater than the distance (D5) between the rotation center (C1) and the front surface (20a) of the door (20). However, in this case, the distance (D5) between the rotation center (C1) and the front surface (20a) of the door (20) may be greater than the distance (D3) between the coupling hole (462) and the front surface (20a) of the door (20).

[0261] Meanwhile, the depth of the receiving groove (211a) may be greater than the height or thickness of the coupling body (461). With the coupling body (461) seated in the receiving groove (211a), a portion of the second pin (463) may be positioned in the receiving groove (211a). Additionally, with the coupling body (461) seated in the receiving groove (211a), a portion of the second connecting part (415) may be positioned in the receiving groove (211a). In this case, the height of the portion protruding upward from the bottom surface (211) of the hinge mounting part (210) may be reduced, so that when the door (20) is opened, the exposure of the second connecting mechanism (460) to the outside of the door (20) may be reduced.

[0262] At this time, since the link (410) is located on one side of the hinge cover (130), the exposure of the second operating part (400) to the outside when the door (20) is closed can be minimized.

[0263] In addition, since the link (410) is positioned on the side of the hinge cover (130), the distance between the link (410) and the hinge cover (130) is reduced during the opening process of the door (20), so there is an advantage that the exposure of the link (410) can be reduced when the door (20) is open.

[0264] In addition, since the second connecting part (415) is operated in a state connected to the hinge mounting part (210), when the door (20) is open, a part of the link body (411) among the second operating part (400) is exposed to the outside, so the external exposure of the second operating part (400) can be minimized.

[0265] Below, the process of opening and closing the above door will be explained.

[0266] FIG. 13 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to a first embodiment, FIG. 14 to 19 are drawings showing the process of a door being automatically opened, and FIG. 20 to 22 are drawings showing the process of a door being automatically closed.

[0267] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 22, the refrigerator of the present embodiment may further include a control unit (500). The control unit (500) may be installed on or spaced apart from the object to be controlled. The control unit (500) may be located inside or outside the object to be controlled.

[0268] For example, the control unit (500) may be provided in the cabinet (10) or in the door (20). The control unit (500) may also receive a door opening command as a control command from a remote device, such as a mobile phone, through a communication unit.

[0269] The control unit (500) can control the drive unit (302). The control unit (500) may be located outside the drive unit (302). The control unit (500) may control the drive unit (302) independently, and may also control other components in the refrigerator other than the drive unit (302).

[0270] The above refrigerator (1) may further include an input unit (502). The input unit (502) can input a door opening command for opening the door (20).

[0271] The input unit (502) may include a touch sensor that detects a user's touch on the front of the door (20), or a knock sensor that detects multiple knocks applied to the front of the door (20). Alternatively, the input unit (502) may include a capacitive sensor, a vibration-sensing sensor, or a sound wave-sensing sensor. Alternatively, the input unit (502) may include a mechanical button or a touch screen capable of inputting user commands. Since the input unit (502) can input commands and detect user commands, the input unit (502) may also be referred to as an input detection unit.

[0272] The input unit (502) may be provided in the cabinet (10) or in the door (20).

[0273] The refrigerator (1) may further include a sensor unit (504). The sensor unit (504) may detect the opening and closing of the door (20). The sensor unit (504) may be provided in the cabinet (10) or in the door (20).

[0274] The operation of the drive unit (302) for automatic opening of the door (20) can be performed when the door (20) is closed. That is, when the door (20) is detected to be closed by the sensor unit (504) and an automatic opening command for the door (20) is input, the drive unit (302) can be operated.

[0275] With the door (20) closed, the first operating part (330) and the second operating part (400) can be positioned in the initial position as shown in FIG. 12.

[0276] At the initial position of the first operating part (330), the first operating part (330) may be spaced apart from the rear surface (20b) of the door (20).

[0277] At least a portion of the connecting gear (360) may be positioned between the first operating part (330) and the second operating part (400). The second operating part (400) may be positioned closer to the hinge mechanism (120) of the door (20) than the first operating part (330).

[0278] [Automatic Door Opening and Closing Process]

[0279] When the door (20) is closed, a door opening command can be input from the input unit (502). Then, the control unit (500) can control the drive unit (302) to automatically open the door (20).

[0280] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 14, the control unit (500) can, for example, rotate the motor in the forward direction. When the motor is rotated in the forward direction, the power of the motor can be transmitted to the first operating unit (330) by the power transmission unit (350).

[0281] Based on FIG. 14, in this embodiment, the forward direction may be, for example, counterclockwise, and the reverse direction may be clockwise.

[0282] At the initial position of the first operating part (330) or the initial position of the fifth gear (355), the fifth gear (355) and the first operating part (330) are in a disconnected state.

[0283] At the initial position of the 6th gear (356) or the initial position of the connecting gear (360), the 6th gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) are in a disconnected state.

[0284] When the motor rotates in the forward direction, the power of the motor is transmitted to the fourth gear (354) so ​​that the fourth gear (354) rotates, and the fifth gear (355) and the sixth gear (356) can rotate simultaneously by the rotation of the fourth gear (354).

[0285] When the fifth gear (355) rotates, the fifth gear (355) and the first operating part (330) become connected. In this state, when the fifth gear (355) rotates, the first operating part (330) moves from the initial position toward the final position in the first direction (or forward direction or door opening direction).

[0286] Since the first member (331) and the second member (340) are connected by the second elastic member (372), when the first member (331) moves in the first direction due to the rotation of the fifth gear (355), the second member (340) can also move in the first direction.

[0287] As shown in FIG. 14, when the first operating part (330) moves in the first direction, the first operating part (330) comes into contact with the rear surface (20b) of the door (20). Even when the first operating part (330) is in contact with the rear surface (20b) of the door (20), the second operating part (400) remains in a stationary state.

[0288] As shown in FIG. 14, when the first operating part (330) contacts the rear surface (20b) of the door (20), the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) are in a disconnected state.

[0289] When the first operating part (330) moves further in the first direction, as shown in FIG. 15, the first operating part (330) pushes the door (20), causing the door (20) to automatically rotate in the opening direction. Accordingly, at least a portion of the gasket (220) begins to be separated from the cabinet (10).

[0290] As shown in Fig. 16, the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) become connected by the forward rotation of the sixth gear (356).

[0291] After the door (20) starts to open from a closed state, before the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) are connected, the connecting gear (360) can be rotated by the rotational force of the door (20) rotated by the first operating part (330).

[0292] In the connection state between the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360), the connecting gear (360) can be rotated when the sixth gear (356) is rotated. When the connecting gear (360) is rotated, the link (410) can move from the initial position toward the door opening position. During the movement of the link (410), the door (20) can be automatically opened by the link (410).

[0293] As the link (410) moves while the first operating part (330) is in contact with the rear side (20b) of the door (20) and moves further in the first direction, as shown in FIG. 16, the door (20) is rotated by the link (410) so that the first operating part (330) can be separated from the rear side (20b) of the door (20).

[0294] In a state like that of FIG. 16, the first operating part (330) and the second operating part (400) operate together. For example, the first operating part (330) can move in the first direction, and the second operating part (400) can move in the opening direction.

[0295] That is, the automatic opening process of the door (20) may include a first opening section in which the first operating part (330) operates alone, and a second opening section in which the first operating part (330) and the second operating part (400) operate together.

[0296] As shown in FIG. 17, the opening angle of the door (20) is increased by the additional movement of the link (410), and the gasket (220) can be completely separated from the cabinet (10).

[0297] In this embodiment, the door opening / closing device (30) operates so that the gasket (220) is separated from the cabinet (10) at the beginning of the automatic opening of the door (20).

[0298] The second operating part (400) can be operated before the first operating part (330) is operated and the gasket (220) is completely separated from the cabinet (10).

[0299] Even when the first operating part (330) is spaced apart from the rear surface (20b) of the door (20), the first operating part (330) can move toward the final position in the first direction.

[0300] That is, the first operating part (330) can move in the first direction until it reaches the final position of FIG. 17 from the initial position of FIG. 12.

[0301] When the first operating part (330) reaches the final position, one side of the first operating part (330) comes into contact with the frame (310), and the movement of the first operating part (330) may be restricted.

[0302] The first elastic member (370) can be tensioned until the first operating part (330) reaches the final position from the initial position.

[0303] When the automatic opening of the door (20) begins and the fifth gear (355) is rotated beyond a predetermined angle, the fifth gear (355) and the first operating part (330) may be disconnected.

[0304] When the fifth gear (355) and the first operating part (330) are disconnected, the external force acting on the first operating part (330) is removed, so as shown in FIG. 18, the first operating part (330) can move in a second direction opposite to the first direction by the elastic force of the first elastic member (370). That is, the first operating part (330) can move from the final position to the second position in the initial position by the elastic force of the first elastic member (370).

[0305] When the first operating part (330) moves to the initial position, the other side of the first operating part (330) comes into contact with a part of the frame (310), and the movement of the first operating part (330) may be restricted.

[0306] Referring to FIG. 19, when the first operating part (330) is stopped, the second operating part (400) can continuously move in the opening direction.

[0307] Accordingly, the automatic opening process of the door (20) may further include a third opening section in which the second operating part (400) operates independently.

[0308] Referring to FIG. 19, when the second operating part (400) is continuously moved in the opening direction and moves to the door opening position, the opening angle of the door (20) becomes maximum. In this embodiment, the maximum opening angle (or set angle) of the door (20) may be greater than 90 degrees.

[0309] If the maximum opening angle of the door (20) is 90 degrees or more, there is an advantage that the user can easily access the storage room (12) without having to manually open the door (20) further.

[0310] In this embodiment, in order to increase the opening angle of the door (20), it is preferable that the distance (first distance) (see D1 in FIG. 25) between the center of rotation of the connecting gear (360) and the center of rotation of the link (410) connected to the connecting gear (360) is equal to or greater than the distance (second distance) (see L2 in FIG. 25) between the center of rotation of the door (20) and the center of rotation of the link (410) connected to the second pin (463).

[0311] For example, if the first distance (D1) is greater than the second distance (L2), the rotation angle of the connecting gear (360) for opening the door (20) by a certain angle (e.g., maximum opening angle) can be reduced.

[0312] On the other hand, if the first distance (D1) is smaller than the second distance (L2), the rotation angle of the connecting gear (360) can be increased so that the opening angle of the door (20) is opened by a certain angle.

[0313] As the center of rotation of the second connecting part (415) of the above link (410) is positioned as close as possible to the center of rotation of the above door (20), the second distance (L2) can be reduced, and thus the first distance (D1) can also be reduced.

[0314] As the first distance (D1) is equal to or greater than the second distance (L2), a larger force can be generated with the same torque as the size of the first distance (D1) decreases, which can help reduce the size of the door opening and closing device.

[0315] Of course, it is possible for the first distance (D1) to be smaller than the second distance (L2), but in this case, the difference (D1) between the second distance (L2) and the first distance must be smaller than the reference value so that the rotation angle of the connecting gear (360) increases and the angle at which the door can be opened decreases.

[0316] The width of the second slot (115) of the cover member (110) (e.g., left-right width) can be formed to be larger than the width of the link (410) (e.g., left-right width). The width of the second slot (115) can be designed so as not to interfere with the link (410) during the operation of the link (410).

[0317] The frame (310) may include an opening (313) for the link (410) to pass through. The opening (313) may be aligned with the second slot (115) of the cover member (110).

[0318] When the door (20) is closed, the link (410) may be positioned close to one end of the opening (313) (e.g., the left end based on FIG. 14). When the door (20) is opened, the link (410) may move toward the other end of the opening (313) (e.g., the right end based on FIG. 19).

[0319] At this time, when the door (20) is closed, the link (410) is spaced apart from one end of the opening (313), and when the door (20) is open, the link (410) can be spaced apart from the other end of the opening (313).

[0320] Since the link (410) includes a curved portion, interference between the link (410) and the hinge cover (130) can be prevented during the process in which the second operating part (400) moves from an initial position to a door-opening position. That is, the link (410) may include a rounded portion that is convex outward relative to the hinge cover (130). Therefore, when the link (410) moves to the door-opening position, the link (410) and the hinge cover (130) are separated by a certain distance (d3), thereby preventing interference between the link (410) and the hinge cover (130). At this time, it is preferable that the certain distance (d3) be large enough so that a user's finger is not injured when inserted between the link (410) and the hinge cover (130). Although not limited, the certain distance (d3) may be 10 mm or more.

[0321] Meanwhile, after the automatic opening of the door (20) is completed, the motor may be rotated in the reverse direction to automatically close the door (20).

[0322] For example, when the door (20) is opened and a set time elapses, or when the door (20) is opened and no user is detected, or when a separate door closing command is input, or when a closing command of the door (20) is detected or recognized, the control unit (500) can control the motor to rotate in the reverse direction.

[0323] As shown in FIG. 20, when the motor is rotated in the reverse direction, the power of the motor is transmitted to the second operating part (400) by the connecting gear (360), so that the second operating part (400) can move in the closing direction from the door open position to the initial position.

[0324] Since the fifth gear (355) and the first operating part (330) are disconnected during the process of opening the door (20), the first operating part (330) remains in a stopped state during some sections of the door closing process of the door (20).

[0325] Accordingly, the automatic closing process of the door (20) may include a first closing section in which only the second operating part (400) operates.

[0326] During the process in which the motor is rotated in the reverse direction, the fifth gear (355) is rotated in the reverse direction. During the process in which the fifth gear (355) is rotated in the reverse direction, the second part (355b) of the fifth gear (355) may come into contact with the rack gear (336) of the first operating part (330).

[0327] Before the door (20) is completely closed, the second part (355b) of the fifth gear (355) may come into contact with the rack gear (336).

[0328] In this state, as shown in FIG. 21, if the fifth gear (355) is additionally rotated in the reverse direction, the rotational force of the fifth gear (355) can be transmitted to the rack gear (336) of the first operating part (330). Then, while the second member (340) is stationary, the first member (331) can move in the second direction.

[0329] As the first member (331) moves in the second direction, the door (20) may be completely closed, and the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) may be disconnected.

[0330] Accordingly, the automatic closing process of the door (20) may include a second closing section in which the first operating part (330) and the second operating part (400) operate together.

[0331] As another example, if the door (20) includes an auto-closing device, the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) may be disengaged at or before the point when the second part (355b) of the fifth gear (355) contacts the rack gear (336). That is, the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) may be disengaged before the door (20) is completely closed.

[0332] Even when the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) are disconnected, the door (20) can be closed by the auto-closing device without power from the driving unit (302). In this case, the automatic closing process of the door (20) may include a second closing section in which the second operating unit (400) does not receive power from the driving unit (302).

[0333] When the first member (331) moves in the second direction, the first member (331) and the second member (340) may be separated by a predetermined distance (d1) (or a first separation distance). The predetermined distance (d1) may be the distance traveled by the first member (331).

[0334] After the first member (331) is separated from the second member (340), if the fifth gear (355) is further rotated in the reverse direction, the first operating part (330) and the fifth gear (355) may be disconnected. In this case, the first member (331) may return to its original position by the elastic force of the second elastic member (372). That is, the first member (331) may move in the first direction and come into contact with the second member (340).

[0335] After the first member (331) is separated, if the fifth gear (355) is further rotated in the reverse direction, the first operating part (330) and the fifth gear (355) can be reconnected. In this state, when the fifth gear (355) is rotated in the reverse direction, the first member (331) can be moved in the second direction and separated from the second member (340).

[0336] Since the number of gear teeth formed in the second part (355b) of the fifth gear (355) is multiple, the number of times the first member (331) returns to its original position after moving in the second direction may be equal to the number of gear teeth.

[0337] The process of the first member (331) moving in the second direction and then returning to the original position can be repeated until the fifth gear (355) moves to the initial position. When the fifth gear (355) moves to the initial position, the motor can be stopped. When the fifth gear (355) is in the initial position, the fifth gear (355) can be disconnected from the first operating part (330).

[0338] According to the present embodiment, at the beginning of the automatic opening of the door, the power of the drive unit is transmitted to the first operating unit and used to separate the gasket, and during the process of separating the gasket or after separation, it is used as the opening force of the door. Therefore, there is an advantage that the gasket of the door can be easily separated at the beginning of the door opening. In addition, since the power of the drive unit is not directly transmitted to the link for door opening, the phenomenon of overloading the drive unit at the beginning of the door opening can be reduced.

[0339] In the case of this embodiment, the door is not only automatically opened but also automatically closed, so there is an advantage in that user convenience is improved.

[0340] [Manual Door Opening Process]

[0341] Figures 23 and 24 are drawings showing the process of opening a door manually.

[0342] Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the user can manually open the door (20) while it is closed.

[0343] As described above, when the door (20) is closed, the sixth gear (356) and the connecting gear (360) are in a disconnected state, so even if the connecting gear (360) is rotated, the rotational force of the connecting gear (360) is not transmitted to the sixth gear (356). That is, the initial position of the sixth gear (356) may be the disconnected position.

[0344] When a user grasps the handle of the door (20) and pulls the door (20), the door can be rotated. When the door (20) is rotated in the opening direction, the second operating part (400) connected to the door (20) moves together with the door (20). During the manual opening process of the door (20), the second operating part (400) can move to the door opening position by the rotational force of the door (20).

[0345] When the second operating part (400) moves together with the door (20), the connecting gear (360) connected to the second operating part (400) rotates. However, since the sixth gear (356) is in the disconnected position, the sixth gear (356) does not rotate even when the connecting gear (360) rotates.

[0346] Therefore, during the manual opening process of the door (20), the manual rotational force of the door (20) is not transmitted to the sixth gear (356). The sixth gear (356) is connected to the drive unit (302) by the gears, but the rotational force of the door (20) is not transmitted to the drive unit (302). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a load from acting on the drive unit (302). In addition, since the rotational force of the door (20) is not transmitted to the first to sixth gears (351 to 356) during the manual opening process of the door (20), noise generated due to the rotation of the gears can be prevented.

[0347] Even when the user closes the door (20), the connecting gear (360) rotates, but the sixth gear (356) remains stationary.

[0348] FIG. 25 is a drawing illustrating the range of positionable links when the connecting gear is rotated in one direction when the hinge mechanism includes a single pin.

[0349] Referring to FIG. 6 and FIG. 25 together, P1 is the center of rotation of the connecting gear (360).

[0350] P2 is the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) when the door is closed and the length of the link (410) is at its maximum.

[0351] P3 is the position of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) of the link (410) when the door is closed.

[0352] P4 is the position of the center of rotation of the first connecting part (413) after the door (20) has been rotated by a first angle (θ1) when the length of the link (410) is at its maximum. The first angle (θ1) may be the maximum opening angle or an angle smaller than the maximum opening angle.

[0353] P5 is the position of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) of the link (410) after the door (20) has been rotated by a first angle (θ1).

[0354] P6 is the position of the center of rotation of the first connecting part (413) when the length of the link (410) is minimum when the door is closed. P61 is the position of the center of rotation of the first connecting part (413) of the link (410) when the door is closed in one embodiment.

[0355] P7 is the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) after the door (20) has been rotated by a first angle (θ1) when the length of the link (410) is at its minimum.

[0356] P8 is the rotation center of the door.

[0357] Drawing symbol 60 is a virtual circle with a radius of the distance between the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360) and the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413).

[0358] Drawing symbol 61 is a virtual circle with a radius of the distance between the rotation center (P8) of the door (20) and the rotation center (P3) of the second connecting part (415).

[0359] In this embodiment, the rotation angle (θ2) of the connecting gear (360) required to open the door (20) may differ depending on the distance (D1) between P1 and P61 and the distance (L2) between P3 and P8.

[0360] For example, when the opening angle of the door (20) is a first angle (θ1), if D1 is greater than L2, the rotation angle (θ2) of the connecting gear (360) can be reduced so that the opening angle of the door (20) is opened by the first angle (θ1).

[0361] On the other hand, if D1 is smaller than L2, the rotation angle (θ2) of the connecting gear (360) can be increased so that the opening angle of the door (20) is opened by the first angle (θ1).

[0362] As the position of the rotation center (P3) of the second connecting part (413) of the above link (410) is positioned as close as possible to the rotation center (P8) of the above door (20), L2 can be reduced, so the distance (D1) between P1 and P61 can also be reduced.

[0363] The smaller the distance (D1) between P1 and P61, the greater the force that can be generated with the same torque, which can help reduce the size of the door opening and closing device.

[0364] Meanwhile, in FIG. 25, the maximum length of the link (410) may be the distance between P2 and P3 (door closed state) or the distance between P4 and P5 (door open state).

[0365] In FIG. 25, the case where the link (410) reaches its maximum length may be when the link (410) is formed in a straight line. In this case, arrangements to prevent interference between the link (410) and the connecting gear (360), and arrangements to prevent interference between the link (410) and a plurality of gears may be considered.

[0366] For example, the arm (364) of the connecting gear (360) can be positioned between the virtual line (A1) described later and the first operating part (330) without interfering with the gears, and the link (410) can also be positioned with a height difference from the plurality of gears. Of course, the link (410) may have a step so that interference between the link (410) and surrounding structures is prevented. That is, the link (410) may include a plurality of parts with a height difference.

[0367] The minimum length of the above link (410) may be the distance between P6 and P3 (door closed state) or the distance between P7 and P5 (door open state).

[0368] When the above connecting gear (360) is rotated in one direction (e.g., clockwise in the drawing), the area where the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) can be located is between P2 and P6 in the virtual circle (60).

[0369] Depending on the position of the gears and the positional relationship with the link (410) in the area between P2 and P6, the position of the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) can be selected. That is, the position of the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) can be selected while considering an arrangement that prevents interference of the components.

[0370] For example, a line that is perpendicular to the front (20a) of the door (20) and passes through the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360) can be called a virtual line (A1).

[0371] In this case, when the door is closed, the first operating part (330) may be located opposite the rotation center (P8) of the door (20) and the rotation center (P3) of the second connecting part (415) with respect to the virtual line (A1).

[0372] In this embodiment, for example, with respect to the virtual line (A1) when the door is closed, the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) may be located on the opposite side of the first operating part (330), but is not limited thereto.

[0373] That is, within a range where the gears and the first connecting part (413) do not interfere, the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) may be located on the opposite side of the rotation center (P3) of the second connecting part (415) with respect to the virtual line (A1). Alternatively, in the door closed state, the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) may be located between the virtual line (A1) and the first operating part (330).

[0374] In this case as well, when the door is open, the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) may be located on the opposite side of the first operating part (330) with respect to the virtual line (A1).

[0375] In the closed state of the door, the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360) may be positioned closer to the front (20a) of the door (20) than the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413).

[0376] In the door open state, the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) may be positioned closer to the front (20a) of the door (20) than the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360).

[0377] FIG. 26 is a drawing illustrating the range of positionable links when the connecting gear is rotated in the other direction when the hinge mechanism includes a single pin.

[0378] Referring to FIG. 26, P1 is the rotational center of the connecting gear (360).

[0379] P2 is the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) when the door is closed and the length of the link (410) is at its maximum.

[0380] P3 is the position of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) of the link (410) when the door is closed.

[0381] P4 is the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) after the door (20) has been rotated by a first angle (θ1) when the length of the link (410) is at its maximum.

[0382] P5 is the position of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) of the link (410) after the door (20) has been rotated by a first angle (θ1).

[0383] P6 is the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) when the length of the link (410) is minimum when the door is closed.

[0384] P7 is the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) after the door (20) has been rotated by a first angle (θ1) when the length of the link (410) is at its minimum.

[0385] P8 is the position of the door's rotation center.

[0386] 60 is a virtual circle with a radius of the distance between the center of rotation (P1) of the connecting gear (360) and the center of rotation (P2) of the first connecting part (413).

[0387] 61 is a virtual circle with a radius of the distance between the rotation center (P8) of the door (20) and the rotation center (P61) of the second connecting part (415).

[0388] In FIG. 26, the maximum length of the link (410) may be the distance between P2 and P3 (door closed state) or the distance between P4 and P5 (door open state).

[0389] In FIG. 26, the case where the link (410) reaches its maximum length may be when the link (410) is formed in a straight line. In this case, arrangements to prevent interference between the link (410) and the connecting gear (360), and arrangements to prevent interference between the link (410) and a plurality of gears may be considered.

[0390] For example, the arm (364) of the connecting gear (360) can be positioned between the virtual line (A1) and the first operating part (330) without interfering with the gears, and the link (410) can also be positioned with a height difference from the plurality of gears. Of course, the link (410) may have a step so that interference between the link (410) and surrounding structures is prevented. That is, the link (410) may include a plurality of parts with a height difference.

[0391] The minimum length of the above link (410) may be the distance between P6 and P3 (door closed state) or the distance between P7 and P5 (door open state).

[0392] When the above connecting gear (360) is rotated in the other direction (e.g., counterclockwise in the drawing), the area where the rotation center (P61) of the first connecting part (413) can be located is between P2 and P6 in the virtual circle (60).

[0393] Depending on the position of the gears in the region between P2 and P6 and the positional relationship with the link (410), the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) can be selected. That is, the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) can be selected while considering an arrangement that prevents interference between the components.

[0394] For example, a line that is perpendicular to the front (20a) of the door (20) and passes through the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360) can be called a virtual line (A1).

[0395] In this case, when the door is closed, the first operating part (330) may be located opposite the rotation center (P8) of the door (20) and the rotation center (P3) of the second connecting part (415) with respect to the virtual line (A1).

[0396] When the above connecting gear (360) is rotated in the other direction, in the door closed state, for example, the virtual line (A1) may be located between the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) and the rotation center of the second connecting part (415). Alternatively, in the door closed state, the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) may be located between the virtual line (A1) and the first operating part (330).

[0397] In the door open state, the virtual line (A1) may be located between the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) and the rotation center (P3) of the second connecting part (415). Alternatively, in the door open state, the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) may be located between the virtual line (A1) and the first operating part (330).

[0398] In the closed state of the door, the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360) may be positioned closer to the front (20a) of the door (20) than the rotation center of the first connecting part (413). Alternatively, in the closed state of the door, the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) may be positioned closer to the front (20a) of the door (20) than the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360). Alternatively, in the closed state of the door, the distance between the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) and the front (20a) of the door (20) may be the same as or different from the distance between the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360) and the front (20a) of the door (20).

[0399] In the door open state, the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) may be positioned closer to the front (20a) of the door (20) than the rotation center (P1) of the connecting gear (360).

[0400] FIG. 27 is a drawing for explaining the range of positionable links when the connecting gear is rotated in one direction when the hinge mechanism includes a plurality of pins.

[0401] In the case of Fig. 27, the basic structure is the same as in Fig. 25, and as the hinge mechanism includes a plurality of pins, there is a difference in the movement of the center of rotation of the door during the opening and closing process of the door.

[0402] Referring to FIG. 27, the hinge mechanism (120) may include a plurality of pins (122, 123) spaced apart from each other. The plurality of pins (122, 123) may be accommodated in a single slot or each may be accommodated in a plurality of separate slots.

[0403] P1 is the position of the rotation center of the above connecting gear (360).

[0404] P2 is the position of the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) of the link (410) while the door is in a closed state.

[0405] P3 is the position of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) of the link (410) when the door is closed.

[0406] P4 is the position of the center of rotation of the first connecting part (413) after the door (20) has been rotated by a first angle. The first angle may be a maximum opening angle or an angle smaller than the maximum opening angle.

[0407] P5 is the position of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) of the link (410) after the door (20) has been rotated by a first angle.

[0408] The line connecting P81 to P85 is the movement path of the rotation center of the door (20) when the door (20) is rotated.

[0409] 60 is a virtual circle with a radius of the distance between the center of rotation (P1) of the connecting gear (360) and the center of rotation (P2) of the first connecting part (413).

[0410] 61 is a virtual circle with a radius of the distance between the center of rotation (P81) of the door (20) when it is closed and the center of rotation (P3) of the second connecting part (415).

[0411] 62 is a virtual circle with a radius of the distance between the center of rotation (P85) when the door (20) is opened by a first angle and the center of rotation (P5) of the second connecting part (415).

[0412] Even if the hinge mechanism (120) includes a plurality of pins (122, 123) spaced apart from each other, the area where the rotation center of the first connecting part (413) can be located according to the rotation direction of the connecting gear described in FIG. 25 and FIG. 26 may be the same or similar.

[0413] FIG. 28 is a drawing showing a first movement path of the rotation center of the second connecting part of the link when the hinge mechanism includes a single pin, and a second movement path of the rotation center of the second connecting part of the link when the hinge mechanism includes a plurality of pins.

[0414] Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, during the rotation process of the door (20), when the hinge mechanism (120) includes a single pin (121), the curvature of the first movement path (Path 1) of the rotation center of the second connection part of the link (410) may be constant. That is, the first movement path (Path 1) may be formed in the shape of an arc with constant curvature.

[0415] On the other hand, during the rotation process of the door (20), the curvature of the second movement path (Path 2) of the rotation center of the second connection part of the link (410) when the hinge mechanism (120) includes a plurality of pins (122, 123) can be varied.

[0416] Additionally, the rotation center (P81, P82, P83, P84, P85) of the door (20) can be positioned closer to one side of the door (20) that is adjacent to the hinge mechanism (120) than the line connecting the rotation center (P2, P4) of the first connecting part (413) of the link (410) and the rotation center (P3, P5) of the second connecting part (415).

[0417] Meanwhile, during the opening process of the door (20), the distance between the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) and the rotation center of the door (20) may be varied.

[0418] When the door (20) is closed, the distance between the rotation center (P3) of the second connecting part (415) and the rotation center (P81) of the door (20) can be maximum.

[0419] When the door (20) is open to the first angle, the distance between the rotation center (P5) of the second connecting part (415) and the rotation center (P85) of the door (20) may be maximum.

[0420] In the entire section where the door (20) is opened, the distance between the center of rotation of the second connecting part (415) and the center of rotation of the door (20) can be reduced in at least some sections during the opening process of the door (20).

[0421] Among the entire section in which the door (20) is opened, the curvature of the second movement path (Path 2) of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) in the first section may be smaller than the curvature of the second movement path (Path 2) of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) in the second section after the first section.

[0422] The first section above may include, for example, a section when the door (20) begins to open. The second section above may include, for example, a section just before the door (20) opens by a first angle.

[0423] The entire section in which the door (20) is opened may further include a third section located between the first section and the second section. In the third section, the curvature of the second movement path (Path 2) of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) in the first section may be greater than the curvature of the second movement path (Path 2) of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) in the first section, and may be smaller than the curvature of the second movement path (Path 2) of the rotation center of the second connecting part (415) in the second section.

[0424] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a second operating part according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of a second operating part according to a second embodiment.

[0425] This embodiment is identical to the first embodiment in other respects, except that there are differences in the shape of the connecting gear and the first and second connecting mechanisms. Therefore, only the characteristic parts of this embodiment will be described below.

[0426] Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, the connecting gear (360A) of the present embodiment may include a body (361a), a gear part (362), and an arm (364). Since the basic form and operation of the connecting gear (360A) are the same as those of the connecting gear (360) of the first embodiment, a detailed description will be omitted. The link (410) may be connected to the connecting gear (360) by a first connecting mechanism (420A). The link (410) may be connected to the door (20) by a second connecting mechanism (420A).

[0427] The above arm (364) may include a receiving portion (365b). Unlike the first embodiment, the receiving portion (365b) may be formed to be recessed downward from the upper surface of the arm (364). With the link (410) positioned in the receiving portion (365b), the link (410) may overlap with the arm (364) in the vertical direction. Thus, when the door (20) is closed, a part of the arm (364) may be positioned lower than the link (410). By the receiving portion (365b), the size, height, or volume of the door opening / closing device may be prevented from increasing.

[0428] Additionally, among the surfaces forming the receiving portion (365b), the surface (365c) facing the side of the link (410) may include a straight section, a curved section, or both a straight section and a curved section.

[0429] If the above link (410) includes a curved section, a part of the curved section may be located in the receiving section (365b). Even if the above link (410) includes a straight section, at least a part of the straight section may be located in the receiving section (365b).

[0430] The above link (410) may include a link body (411). The above link (410) may include a first connecting part (413a) connected to the connecting gear (360A) by a first connecting mechanism (420A), and a second connecting part (415a) connected to the door (20) by a second connecting mechanism (460A). The first connecting part (413a) may be provided on one side of the link (410), and the second connecting part (415a) may be provided on the other side.

[0431] The first connecting mechanism (420A) of the present embodiment may include a first pin (430). The first pin (430) may provide a rotational center of the link (410) with respect to the connecting gear (360A). Since the structure of the first pin (430) is the same as the first pin described in the first embodiment, a detailed description will be omitted.

[0432] The first pin (430) can pass through the joint portion (366) of the arm (364) and the hole (414a) formed in the first connecting portion (413a) of the link (410). A portion of the first pin (430) can protrude upward while passing through the first connecting portion (413a).

[0433] A coupling ring (440) can be coupled to the portion protruding upward from the first connecting part (413a) of the first pin (430).

[0434] In the case of the present embodiment, since the link (410) can come into contact with the first pin (430), a lubricant may be provided at the contact area between the link (410) and the first pin (430) so as to reduce friction between the link (410) and the first pin (430).

[0435] As another example, the coupling ring (440) may be omitted, and the end of the first pin (430) may be modified in a riveting manner to limit the separation of the link (410).

Claims

1. A door opening and closing device for opening and closing the door of a refrigerator, Driving unit; and Depending on the operation of the above-mentioned drive unit, it includes a link gear that rotates forward or reverse with respect to the rotation center, and One side of the link gear is provided with a tooth part connected to the driving part based on the above center of rotation, and the other side of the link gear is provided with a coupling part coupled to a link that pushes the door based on the above center of rotation. A door opening and closing device in which the first distance between the rotation center and the coupling part is greater than the second distance between the rotation center and the tooth part.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above link gear comprises a gear portion, which is an area extending from the center of rotation to the tooth portion, and It includes an arm portion which is an area extending from the rotation center to the joint portion, and The above tooth portion is a door opening and closing device formed within an angle range smaller than 360 degrees in the above gear portion.

3. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a power transmission unit that transmits power from the above-mentioned driving unit to the above-mentioned tooth unit, and The above power transmission unit includes a plurality of gears, and At least one of the multiple gears is a door opening and closing device that overlaps the tooth portion in the vertical direction.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above link gear is a door opening and closing device comprising a groove in which some of the gears among the plurality of gears are located.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above link gear is, A door opening and closing device comprising a recessed receiving portion for receiving a portion of the above link.

6. In Paragraph 5, A door opening and closing device in which at least a portion of the receiving portion is located between the rotation center of the above link gear and the above coupling portion.

7. In Paragraph 5, The line connecting the rotation center of the above link gear and the above coupling part is a door opening and closing device that overlaps with the above receiving part.

8. In Paragraph 5, The above receiving portion is a door opening and closing device formed by the upper surface of the link gear being recessed downward or by the lower surface of the link gear being recessed upward.

9. In Paragraph 5, At the first position of the above link gear, the area or volume of the link received in the receiving portion is, A door opening / closing device that is larger than the area or volume of the link received in the receiving portion at the second position of the link gear.

10. In Paragraph 1, A door opening and closing device in which the minimum distance between the link and the center of rotation of the link gear is increased in at least some part of the entire section in which the link gear is rotated.

11. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a transmission gear for transmitting power from the above-mentioned drive unit to the above-mentioned tooth unit, and The above transmission gear comprises a first part and, It includes a second part having a diameter different from the first part mentioned above, and The above second part is a door opening and closing device including a tooth portion connected to the tooth portion of the link gear.

12. In Paragraph 11, A door opening and closing device formed within an angle range smaller than 360 degrees in the second part of the above-mentioned second part.

13. In Paragraph 12, The second distance from the rotational center of the above link gear to the tooth portion of the above link gear is, A door opening and closing device that is greater than the third distance from the center of rotation of the second part to the tooth part of the second part.

14. In Paragraph 12, The first part above is a door opening and closing device that overlaps with the gear part above.

15. A cabinet equipped with a storage room; A door for opening and closing the above storage room; A hinge mechanism that allows the door to rotate on the cabinet; and It includes a door opening and closing device for opening and closing the above door, The above door opening and closing device is, The drive unit, and A power transmission unit that transmits power to the above-mentioned drive unit, and A link gear that operates by receiving power from the above-mentioned drive unit, and It includes a link, one side of which is connected to the link gear and the other side of which is connected to the door, A tooth portion connected to the driving portion is provided on one side relative to the rotational center of the above link gear, and a coupling portion coupled to the link is provided on the other side relative to the rotational center. The first distance between the center of rotation and the joint is different from the second distance between the center of rotation and the tooth part, and A refrigerator in which the link overlaps with the link gear in the vertical direction when the door is closed.

16. In Paragraph 15, A refrigerator in which the second distance between the rotation center and the coupling part is greater than the first distance between the rotation center and the tooth part.

17. In Paragraph 15, A refrigerator in which the line connecting the rotation center of the above link gear and the above coupling part overlaps with the above link in the vertical direction.

18. In Paragraph 15, A refrigerator in which the distance between the gear tooth of the above-mentioned tooth portion and the above-mentioned coupling portion is smaller than the first distance between the rotation center and the above-mentioned coupling portion.

19. In Paragraph 18, A refrigerator where the distance between the other gear tooth of the above tooth portion and the above coupling portion is greater than the first distance between the rotation center and the above coupling portion.

20. In Paragraph 15, The above link gear is, A refrigerator comprising a recessed receiving portion for receiving a part of the above link.

Images