Refrigerator, automatic refrigerator door opening system, and control method therefor

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment may comprise: a main body; a plurality of doors rotatably coupled to the main body; at least one door opening device for independently opening each of the plurality of doors; a sensor that is provided on one door among the plurality of doors and senses a user or a user input; and a processor that generates a processed signal by processing an output signal obtained from the sensor, generates a trigger signal on the basis of the intensity of the processed signal being equal to or greater than a preset threshold, determines to open at least two doors including the one door among the plurality of doors on the basis of a generation pattern of the trigger signal of a reference duration, and controls the at least one door opening device to open the at least two doors on the basis of determining to open the at least two doors.

Description

Refrigerator, refrigerator door automatic opening system and control method thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator and an automatic door opening system for a plurality of refrigerators.

[0002] A refrigerator is a device for keeping food fresh, comprising a main body having a storage compartment and a cold air supply system that supplies cold air to the storage compartment. The storage compartment includes a refrigerator compartment that is maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius for refrigerated storage of food, and a freezer compartment that is maintained at approximately 0 to minus 30 degrees Celsius for frozen storage of food. The storage compartment is designed so that the front is open for the retrieval and retrieval of food.

[0003] The refrigerator includes a door provided to open and close the storage compartment. The door is rotatably provided relative to the main body so as to open and close the storage compartment.

[0004] The door may be provided so that a user can open and close it by grasping a handle provided on the door and rotating it relative to the main body. Alternatively, the refrigerator may include a door opening and closing structure configured so that the door can be easily opened or closed.

[0005] There was a problem where it was difficult for users to grip the handle when attempting to use the refrigerator, as they were holding food items to be stored in both hands. Recently, to improve the user experience, there has been a growing need for technology that automatically opens the door without the user having to manually grip the handle and rotate it.

[0006] The refrigerator or refrigerator door automatic opening system according to the present disclosure is intended to detect a user through a sensor and automatically open the necessary door without the user needing to directly participate in opening the refrigerator door.

[0007] A refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include: a main body; a plurality of doors rotatably coupled to the main body; a plurality of door opening devices for independently opening each of the plurality of doors; a sensor provided on one of the plurality of doors and detecting a user or user input; and a processor for processing an output signal obtained from the sensor to generate a processing signal, generating a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, determining to open a plurality of doors including one of the plurality of doors based on a generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time, and controlling a plurality of door opening devices for opening the plurality of doors determined to be opened.

[0008] A refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a plurality of refrigerators including a door, a door opening device for opening the door, a communication interface for communicating with an external device, and a processor electrically connected to the door opening device and the communication interface; wherein one of the plurality of refrigerators further comprises a sensor provided in the door for detecting a user or user input, and the processor of the one refrigerator processes the output signal obtained from the sensor included in the one refrigerator to generate a processing signal, generates a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, and decides to open the door of the plurality of refrigerators including the one refrigerator among the plurality of refrigerators based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time, controls the door opening device to open the door of the one refrigerator, and controls the communication interface to transmit a door opening signal to at least one refrigerator among the plurality of refrigerators excluding the one refrigerator among the refrigerators for which the door opening was decided.

[0009] A method for controlling a refrigerator according to one aspect of the present disclosure, comprising a main body, a plurality of doors rotatably coupled to the main body, a plurality of door opening devices for independently and automatically opening each of the plurality of doors, and a sensor provided on one of the plurality of doors for detecting a user or user input, may include processing an output signal obtained from the sensor to generate a processing signal, generating a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, deciding to open a plurality of doors including one of the plurality of doors based on a generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time, and controlling a plurality of door opening devices that open the plurality of doors for which the opening was decided among the plurality of door opening devices.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a necessary door can be opened based on the sensor detecting the user without the user directly gripping the handle.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, even if a sensor on a specific door fails, a necessary door can be opened as a sensor on another door detects a user.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a plurality of doors can be opened without user intervention.

[0013] In addition, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the user experience can be improved by pre-setting a refrigerator or a door that the user wants to open.

[0014] The technical problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a plurality of devices in an IoT environment according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a refrigerator door closed according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the door of a refrigerator open according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a top view illustrating the closed door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a top view illustrating the door opening device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment opening the door.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating another example of a refrigerator door closed according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a top view illustrating the closed door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a top view illustrating a door opening device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment opening a dependent door.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for processing an output signal obtained from a sensor included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another example of a method for processing a signal obtained from a sensor included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 12 is a control flowchart of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 13 is an example of a control flowchart of a refrigerator for determining a door to be automatically opened according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 14 is another example of a control flowchart of a refrigerator for determining a door to be automatically opened according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating another example of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating another example of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 17 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a plurality of refrigerators in an IoT environment according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 18 is a control flowchart of a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 19 is an example of a flowchart for automatically opening the doors of a plurality of refrigerators according to a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 20 is another example of a flowchart for automatically opening the doors of a plurality of refrigerators according to a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 21 is another example of a flowchart for automatically opening the doors of a plurality of refrigerators according to a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 22 is another example of a flowchart for automatically opening the doors of a plurality of refrigerators according to a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0037] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0038] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0039] The singular form of the noun corresponding to an item may include one or plural items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0040] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0041] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0042] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that the component may be connected to the other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0043] Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0044] When it is said that a component is "connected," "combined," "supported," or "in contact" with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0045] When it is said that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0046] A refrigerator according to one embodiment may include a main body.

[0047] The “main body” may include an inner body, an outer body positioned on the outside of the inner body, and an insulating material provided between the inner body and the outer body.

[0048] The “inner body” may include at least one of a case, plate, panel, or liner forming a storage chamber. The inner body may be formed as a single body or may be formed by assembling multiple plates. The “outer body” may form the exterior of the main body and may be coupled to the outer side of the inner body so that an insulating material is disposed between the inner body and the outer body.

[0049] The “insulating material” can insulate the interior and exterior of the storage room so that the temperature inside the storage room is maintained at a set appropriate temperature without being affected by the external environment. According to one embodiment, the insulating material may include a foamed insulating material. The foamed insulating material can be formed by injecting and foaming urethane foam, which is a mixture of polyurethane and a foaming agent, between the inner and outer layers.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the insulation material may additionally include a vacuum insulation material in addition to a foam insulation material, or the insulation material may consist solely of a vacuum insulation material instead of a foam insulation material. The vacuum insulation material may include a core material and an outer shell material that accommodates the core material and seals the interior under vacuum or near-vacuum pressure. However, the insulation material is not limited to the foam insulation material or vacuum insulation material described above and may include various materials that can be used for insulation.

[0051] The “storage room” may include a space defined by an internal structure. The storage room may further include an internal structure defining a space corresponding to the storage room. Various items such as food, medicine, and cosmetics may be stored in the storage room, and the storage room may be formed so that at least one side is open to allow for the retrieval and retrieval of items.

[0052] A refrigerator may include one or more storage compartments. When two or more storage compartments are formed in a refrigerator, each storage compartment may have a different use and may be maintained at a different temperature. To this end, each storage compartment may be partitioned from one another by a partition containing insulation.

[0053] The storage room may be provided to be maintained within an appropriate temperature range according to its intended use and may include a "refrigeration room," "freezing room," or "variable temperature room" distinguished according to its intended use and / or temperature range. The refrigerator room may be maintained at a temperature suitable for refrigerated storage of goods, and the freezer room may be maintained at a temperature suitable for frozen storage of goods. "Refrigeration" may mean cooling goods to a temperature that does not freeze them; for example, the refrigerator room may be maintained within a range of 0°C to 7°C. "Freezing" may mean cooling goods to freeze them or to maintain them in a frozen state; for example, the freezer room may be maintained within a range of -20°C to -1°C. The variable temperature room may be used as either a refrigerator room or a freezer room, with or without the user's choice.

[0054] Storage rooms may be referred to by various names, such as "vegetable room," "fresh room," "cooling room," and "ice-making room," in addition to terms like "refrigeration room," "freezing room," and "variable temperature room." The terms "refrigeration room," "freezing room," and "variable temperature room" used below should be understood as encompassing storage rooms with corresponding uses and temperature ranges.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include at least one door configured to open and close one side of the storage compartment. The door may be provided to open and close each of one or more storage compartments, or a single door may be provided to open and close multiple storage compartments. The door may be installed to be rotatable or sliding on the front of the main body.

[0056] The “door” may be configured to seal the storage room when the door is closed. The door may include insulation material, similar to the main body, to insulate the storage room when the door is closed.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door and facing the storage room, an upper cap, a lower cap, and a door insulation material provided inside the same.

[0058] A gasket may be provided on the edge of the door inner panel to seal the storage compartment by adhering to the front of the main body when the door is closed. The door inner panel may include a dyke that protrudes rearward to allow a door basket for storing items to be mounted.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the door may include a door body and a front panel detachably coupled to the front side of the door body and forming the front of the door. The door body may include a door outer panel forming the front of the door body, a door inner panel forming the rear of the door body and facing the storage compartment, an upper cap, a lower cap, and a door insulation material provided inside them.

[0060] Refrigerators can be classified into French Door Type, Side-by-side Type, BMF (Bottom Mounted Freezer), TMF (Top Mounted Freezer), or 1-door refrigerators depending on the arrangement of the door and storage compartment.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a cold air supply device arranged to supply cold air to the storage compartment.

[0062] The “cold air supply device” may include a machine, apparatus, electronic device, and / or a system combining these that can generate cold air and guide cold air to cool a storage room.

[0063] According to one embodiment, a cold supply device can generate cold air through a refrigeration cycle that includes the processes of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation of a refrigerant. To this end, the cold supply device may include a refrigeration cycle device having a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator capable of driving the refrigeration cycle. According to one embodiment, the cold supply device may include a semiconductor such as a thermoelectric element. The thermoelectric element can cool a storage chamber through heat generation and cooling action via the Peltier effect.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a machine room arranged to accommodate at least some parts belonging to a cold air supply device.

[0065] The “machine room” may be configured to be partitioned and insulated from the storage room to prevent heat generated from components placed in the machine room from being transferred to the storage room. The interior of the machine room may be configured to communicate with the exterior of the main body to dissipate heat from components placed inside the machine room.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include a dispenser provided on the door to provide water and / or ice. The dispenser may be provided on the door so that it is accessible to a user without opening the door.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator may include an ice-making device configured to generate ice. The ice-making device may include an ice-making tray that stores water, an ice-removing device that separates ice from the ice-making tray, and an ice bucket that stores the ice generated from the ice-making tray.

[0068] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0069] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0070] FIG. 1 illustrates a plurality of devices in an IoT environment according to one embodiment.

[0071] An IoT environment according to one embodiment may include a user device (2), a server device (3), at least one electronic device (10), and / or a network connecting the user device (2), the server device (3), or at least one electronic device (10). In the present disclosure, the user device (2) or at least one electronic device (10) of the IoT environment may be referred to as an IoT device.

[0072] The electronic device (10) may include a communication module capable of communicating with other home appliances, a user device (2) or a server device (3), a user interface that receives user input or outputs information to the user, at least one processor that controls the operation of the electronic device (10), and at least one memory in which a program for controlling the operation of the electronic device (10) is stored.

[0073] The electronic device (10) may be at least one of various types of home appliances. For example, the electronic device (10) may include at least one of a refrigerator (11), a dishwasher (12), an electric range (13), an electric oven (14), an air conditioner (15), a garment care device (16), a washing machine (17), a dryer (18), and a microwave oven (19) as illustrated, but is not limited thereto, and may include various types of home appliances such as a cleaning robot, a vacuum cleaner, and a television not illustrated in the drawings. In addition, the aforementioned home appliances are merely examples, and in addition to the aforementioned home appliances, a device capable of performing the operation described below by being connected to other home appliances, a user device (2), or a server device (3) may be included in the electronic device (10) according to one embodiment.

[0074] The server device (3) may include a communication module capable of communicating with another server device, an electronic device (10), or a user device (2), at least one processor capable of processing data received from another server device, an electronic device (10), or a user device (2), and at least one memory capable of storing a program for processing data or processed data. This server device (3) may be implemented as various computing devices such as a workstation, a cloud, a data drive, or a data station. The server device (3) may be implemented as one or more servers physically or logically separated based on functions, detailed configurations of functions, or data, and may transmit and receive data and process the transmitted and received data through communication between each server.

[0075] The server device (3) can perform functions such as managing user accounts, registering electronic devices (10) associated with user accounts, and managing or controlling registered electronic devices (10). For example, a user can create a user account by accessing the server device (3) through a user device (2). A user account can be identified by an ID and password set by the user. The server device (3) can register an electronic device (10) to a user account according to a set procedure. For example, the server device (3) can register, manage, and control the electronic device (10) by linking identification information of the electronic device (10) (e.g., serial number or MAC address, etc.) to the user account. The user device (2) may include a communication module capable of communicating with the electronic device (10) or the server device (3), a user interface that receives user input or outputs information to the user, at least one processor that controls the operation of the user device (2), and at least one memory in which a program for controlling the operation of the user device (2) is stored.

[0076] The user device (2) may be carried by the user or placed in the user's home or office, etc. The user device (2) may include, but is not limited to, a personal computer, terminal, portable telephone, smartphone, handheld device, wearable device, etc.

[0077] A program, i.e., an application, for controlling an electronic device (10) can be stored in the memory of the user device (2). The application may be sold with the user device (2) installed, or may be downloaded and installed from an external server.

[0078] By running an application installed on the user device (2), the user can access the server device (3) to create a user account, and register an electronic device (10) by communicating with the server device (3) based on the logged-in user account.

[0079] For example, if the electronic device (10) is operated in accordance with the procedure guided by the application installed on the user device (2) so that the electronic device (10) can be connected to the server device (3), the electronic device (10) can be registered to the user account by registering the identification information of the electronic device (10) (e.g., serial number or MAC address, etc.) to the corresponding user account on the server device (3).

[0080] The user can control the electronic device (10) using an application installed on the user device (2). For example, when the user logs into a user account using an application installed on the user device (2), the electronic device (10) registered to the user account appears, and when a control command for the electronic device (10) is entered, the control command can be transmitted to the electronic device (10) through the server device (3). In the present disclosure, the control command may be referred to as a control signal.

[0081] A network may include both wired and wireless networks. Wired networks include cable networks or telephone networks, etc., and wireless networks may include all networks that transmit and receive signals via radio waves. Wired and wireless networks may be connected to each other.

[0082] Networks may include wide area networks (WANs) such as the Internet, local area networks (LANs) formed around access points (APs), and short-range wireless networks that do not use access points (APs). Short-range wireless networks may include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field Communication (NFC), Z-Wave, etc.

[0083] An access point (AP) can connect an electronic device (10) or a user device (2) to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server device (3) is connected. The electronic device (10) or the user device (2) can be connected to the server device (3) via the wide area network (WAN).

[0084] The access point (AP) can communicate with an electronic device (10) or a user device (2) using wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), or Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), and can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, but is not limited thereto.

[0085] According to various embodiments, the electronic device (10) may be directly connected to a user device (2) or a server device (3) without going through an access relay (AP).

[0086] The electronic device (10) can be connected to a user device (2) or a server device (3) via a long-distance wireless network or a short-distance wireless network.

[0087] For example, the electronic device (10) can be connected to the user device (2) via a short-range wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct).

[0088] As another example, the electronic device (10) can be connected to a user device (2) or a server device (3) via a wide area network (WAN) using a long-distance wireless network (e.g., a cellular communication module).

[0089] As another example, the electronic device (10) can be connected to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication and connected to a user device (2) or a server device (3) through the wide area network (WAN).

[0090] If the electronic device (10) can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, it may operate as a connection relay. Accordingly, the electronic device (10) can connect other home appliances to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server device (3) is connected. Additionally, other home appliances can connect the electronic device (10) to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server device (3) is connected.

[0091] The electronic device (10) can transmit information regarding operation or status to other home appliances, user devices (2), or server devices (3) via a network. For example, the electronic device (10) can transmit information regarding operation or status to other electronic devices (10), user devices (2), or server devices (3) when a request is received from the server device (3), when a specific event occurs in the electronic device (10), or periodically or in real time.

[0092] When the server device (3) receives information regarding operation or state from the electronic device (10), it updates the stored information regarding operation or state of the electronic device (10) and transmits the updated information regarding operation and state of the electronic device (10) to the user device (2) via a network. Here, updating information may include various operations that change existing information, such as adding new information to existing information or replacing existing information with new information.

[0093] The electronic device (10) can obtain various information from another electronic device (10), a user device (2), or a server device (3) and provide the obtained information to the user. For example, the electronic device (10) can obtain information related to the functions of the electronic device (10) (e.g., recipes, laundry methods, etc.) and various environmental information (e.g., weather, temperature, humidity, etc.) from the server device (3), and can output the obtained information through a user interface.

[0094] The electronic device (10) may operate according to control commands received from other home appliances, user devices (2), or server devices (3). For example, if the electronic device (10) has obtained prior approval from a user to operate according to control commands from server devices (3) even without user input, the electronic device (10) may operate according to control commands received from server devices (3). Here, the control commands received from server devices (3) may include, but are not limited to, control commands entered by the user through user devices (2) or control commands based on pre-set conditions.

[0095] The user device (2) can transmit information about the user to the electronic device (10) or the server device (3) through a communication module. For example, the user device (2) can transmit information about the user's location, health status, preferences, schedule, etc. to the server device (3). The user device (2) can transmit information about the user to the server device (3) upon the user's prior approval.

[0096] The electronic device (10), user device (2), or server device (3) may determine control commands using technology such as artificial intelligence. For example, the server device (3) may receive information regarding the operation or state of the electronic device (10) or information regarding the user of the user device (2), process it using technology such as artificial intelligence, and transmit the processing result or control command to the electronic device (10) or user device (2) based on the processing result.

[0097] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the door of a refrigerator closed according to one embodiment.

[0098] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the door of a refrigerator open according to one embodiment.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3, a refrigerator (11) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body (100), a storage room (140) provided inside the main body (100), a door (150) for opening and closing the storage room (140), and a cooling system for supplying cold air to the storage room (140).

[0100] The main body (100) may include an outer casing (110) that forms the exterior of the refrigerator (11) and an inner casing (120) that forms a storage compartment (140). The outer casing (110) may be formed in the shape of a box with an open front. The outer casing (110) may form the top surface, bottom surface, left and right sides, rear surface, etc., of the refrigerator (11). The inner casing (120) may have an open front. The inner casing (120) may have a storage compartment (140) provided inside and may be provided on the inner side of the outer casing (110). The inner wall of the inner casing (120) may form the inner wall of the storage compartment (140).

[0101] Insulating material may be provided between the outer layer (110) and the inner layer (120) to insulate the space between the outer layer (110) and the inner layer (120). As the insulating material is foamed between the outer layer (110) and the inner layer (120), the outer layer (110) and the inner layer (120) can be joined together. For example, the insulating material may include insulating materials of various materials such as urethane foam insulation, expanded polystyrene insulation, and vacuum insulation panels.

[0102] The main body (100) may further include a top table (130) provided on the upper part of the main body (100). The top table (130) may be coupled to the upper part of the outer body (110). The top table (130) may be coupled to the upper surface of the outer body (110). The top table (130) may cover various electrical components. A receiving space for accommodating various electrical components may be formed on the inner side of the top table (130). For example, the top table (130) may cover a door opening device (160; 160R, 160L) described later, and the door opening device (160) may be accommodated on the inner side of the top table (130).

[0103] A storage room (140) may be formed inside the main body (100). For example, the storage room (140) may include a refrigerator room maintained at approximately 0 to 5 degrees Celsius for refrigerated storage of food. For example, the storage room (140) may include a freezer room maintained at approximately minus 30 to 0 degrees Celsius for frozen storage of food.

[0104] In various embodiments, the storage room (140) may be divided into multiple areas. The main body (100) may include a partition (141) that divides the storage room (140) into a first storage room (140a) and a second storage room (140b). For example, the partition (141) may extend in a vertical direction (Z), and the first storage room (140a) and the second storage room (140b) may be arranged horizontally relative to each other. For example, the storage room (140) may be divided into a first storage room (140a) positioned on the left and a second storage room (140b) positioned on the right. For example, the first storage room (140a) may be used as a freezer and the second storage room (140b) may be used as a refrigerator, but is not limited thereto.

[0105] Inside the storage room (140), a storage shelf (142) on which food can be placed and a drawer (143) for storing food may be provided.

[0106] The refrigerator (11) may include a cooling system configured to generate cold air using a cooling cycle and supply the generated cold air to a storage room (140). The cooling system may generate cold air using a cooling circulation cycle that compresses, condenses, expands, and evaporates a refrigerant. As an example, the cooling system may include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, a blower fan, etc.

[0107] The main body (100) may include a cold air supply duct that forms a cold air flow path through which cold air generated by a cooling system flows into a storage room (140). The cold air supply duct may be formed in the rear part of the inner body (120). The cold air supply duct may be provided at the rear of the storage room (140) and may be connected to the storage room (140).

[0108] A door (150) may be provided to open and close a storage room (140). A door (150) may be provided to open and close an opening formed on one side of a main body (100). A door (150) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the main body (100). A door (150) may be provided to be rotatable relative to the main body (100) by being coupled to a hinge bracket connecting the door (150) and the main body (100).

[0109] The outer surface of the door (150) may form part of the exterior of the refrigerator (11). When the door (150) is closed, the outer surface of the door (150) may form at least part of the front exterior of the refrigerator (11). When the door (150) is closed, the inner surface of the door (150) may face the interior of the storage room (140). The inner surface of the door (150) referred to here means one side of the door (150) facing the storage room (140) when the door (150) is closed to the storage room (140). Additionally, the outer surface of the door (150) referred to here means the other side opposite to the inner surface of the door (150) facing the storage room (140) when the door (150) is closed to the storage room (140), and refers to the front of the door (150) visible when the refrigerator (11) is viewed from the front.

[0110] For example, the door (150) may include a door frame (153) and a door cap (155) (see FIG. 4, FIG. 5, etc.). The door cap (155) may include an upper door cap and / or a lower door cap. The door frame (153) may form the overall appearance of the door (150). The upper door cap (155) may form the upper surface and / or lower surface of the door (150).

[0111] A door gasket (151) may be provided on the inner surface of the door (150) to seal the gap between the door (150) and the main body (100) to prevent cold air from leaking from the storage room (140). The door gasket (151) may be provided along the perimeter of the inner surface of the door (150). The door gasket (151) may be configured to include an elastic material such as rubber.

[0112] A door shelf (152) capable of storing food may be provided on the inner surface of the door (150). The door (150) may include a door frame (153). The door frame (153) may form the overall exterior of the door (150).

[0113] The door (150) may include a handle (154). A user may open or close the door (150) by holding the handle (154) with their hand. Alternatively, a user may open or close the storage room (140) by holding the handle (154) with their hand and rotating the door (150). For example, the handle (154) may include a groove shape formed concavely so as to be gripped. For example, the handle (154) may be provided on the door frame (153) of the door (150).

[0114] As described below, the door (150) can be opened by the door opening device (160).

[0115] As described below, the refrigerator (11) may include a sensor (180) provided to acquire a signal for operating a door opening device (160). For example, the sensor (180) may be provided on the door (150). For example, the sensor (180) may be placed in an area adjacent to the handle (154) of the door (150).

[0116] The refrigerator (11) may include a plurality of doors (150L, ​​150R) arranged to open and close a plurality of storage compartments (140a, 140b) that are partitioned from one another. For example, the refrigerator (11) may include a first door (150L) arranged to open and close a first storage compartment (140a) and a second door (150R) arranged to open and close a second storage compartment (140b). For example, the first door (150L) and the second door (150R) may be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (Y). The first door (150L) may be placed on the left side, and the second door (150R) may be placed on the right side. The first door (150L) may be referred to as the "left door (30L)" and the second door (150R) may be referred to as the "right door (30R)". The first door (150L) and the second door (150R) can rotate independently of each other with respect to the main body (100).

[0117] For example, the first door (150L) can be opened by a first door opening device (160L) positioned on the left. For example, the second door (150R) can be opened by a second door opening device (160R) positioned on the right.

[0118] For example, the first door (150L) may include a first sensor (180a) provided to acquire a signal for operating the first door opening device (160L). For example, the second door (150R) may include a second sensor (180b) provided to acquire a signal for operating the second door opening device (160R).

[0119] The door (150) of the refrigerator (11) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is not limited to the first door (150L) and second door (150R) described above.

[0120] The refrigerator (11) may include a control panel (170). The control panel (170) may be provided on the main body (100) or on the door (150). For example, the control panel (170) may be provided on the outside of the first door (150L), as shown in FIG. 2.

[0121] The control panel (170) can provide the user with a user interface for interacting with the user.

[0122] The configuration of the refrigerator (11) described above with reference to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 is merely an example for explaining a refrigerator according to the concept of the present disclosure, and the concept of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In various embodiments of the present disclosure, the refrigerator may be provided to include various configurations for performing the function of supplying cold air to a storage compartment for storing food.

[0123] FIG. 4 is a top view illustrating the closed door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0124] FIG. 5 is a top view illustrating the door opening device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment opening the door.

[0125] A refrigerator (11) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a door opening device (160) provided to open a door (150). The door opening device (160) may be provided to rotate the door (150) relative to the main body (100) to open a storage compartment (140). The door opening device (160) may be provided to press the door (150) to open the door (150).

[0126] The door opening device (160) can be mounted on the main body (100). The door opening device (160) can be mounted on the upper part of the main body (100). For example, the door opening device (160) can be received inside the top table (130). The upper part of the door opening device (160) can be covered by the top table (130). The door opening device (160) can be placed on the upper surface of the outer body (110).

[0127] The door opening device (160) can independently open a plurality of doors (150). For example, the door opening device (160) may include a first door opening device (160L) provided to open a first door (150L) and a second door opening device (160R) provided to open a second door (150R).

[0128] A first door opening device (160L) may be provided to open the first storage room (140a) by rotating the first door (150L). A second door opening device (160R) may be provided to open the second storage room (140b) by rotating the second door (150R).

[0129] The operation of the first door opening device (160L) opening the first door (150L) and the operation of the second door opening device (160R) opening the second door (150R) can be performed independently of each other.

[0130] The first door opening device (160L) and the second door opening device (160R) may be arranged side by side in the horizontal direction (Y). For example, the first door opening device (160L) may be positioned to the left of the center on the upper part of the main body (100), and the second door opening device (160R) may be positioned to the right of the center on the upper part of the main body (100). The first door opening device (160L) mounted on the upper part of the main body (100) may be provided to press the upper part of the first door (150L), and the second door opening device (160R) mounted on the upper part of the main body (100) may be provided to press the upper part of the second door (150R).

[0131] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the door opening device (160) may be mounted at various locations on the main body (100) and may be configured to open the first storage room (140a) or the second storage room (140b) by pressing various parts other than the upper part of the first door (150L) or the second door (150R). For example, unlike as shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the door opening device (160) may be mounted on the lower part of the main body (100) to press the lower part of the first door (150L) or the second door (150R).

[0132] The first door opening device (160L) and the second door opening device (160R) may have corresponding structures. FIG. 4 illustrates in detail the structure of the first door opening device (160L) provided to open the first door (150L), and the structure of the first door opening device (160L) illustrated in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 may also be applied to the structure of the second door opening device (160R) in a corresponding manner. The description of the structure of the door opening device (160) described below may be applied to the structure of the first door opening device (160L) and the structure of the second door opening device (160R), respectively.

[0133] The door opening device (160) may include a door pusher (162) configured to open the door by pressing the door (150). The door pusher (161) may be configured to be movable relative to the main body (100). The door pusher (161) may be configured to press the door (150) while moving relative to the main body (100). The door pusher (161) may press the door (150) while moving forward from the side of the main body (100) toward the door (150), thereby opening the door (150) that was closed.

[0134] The door opening device (160) may include a pusher case (162) that supports a door pusher (161). The pusher case (162) may movably support the door pusher (161).

[0135] The pusher case (162) may form a receiving space for accommodating at least a portion of the door pusher (161). The door pusher (161) may be movably positioned between a position where it is fully retracted into the receiving space of the pusher case (162) and a position where it is pulled forward from the receiving space of the pusher case (162).

[0136] The pusher case (162) can be mounted on the main body (100). The pusher case (162) can be fixed to the main body (100). For example, the pusher case (162) can be attached to the top table (130). However, it is not limited thereto, and the pusher case (162) can be attached to various locations on the main body (100).

[0137] The door opening device (160) may include a driving device (not shown). The driving device may provide driving force to the door pusher (161) so that the door pusher (161) can move relative to the main body (100). The driving device may move the position of the door pusher (161) based on a door opening signal. Additionally, the driving device may include a power source (not shown) provided to generate power to open the door (150). The power source may be provided to generate power for the door pusher (161) to move. The power source may include a motor of various structures.

[0138] The door opening device (160) may be electrically connected to the processor (210) of the refrigerator (11). The door opening device (160) may be controlled by the processor (210) of the refrigerator (11). The door opening device (160) may operate based on a control signal received from the processor (210). The door opening device (160) may include a circuit comprising various electronic components for moving the door pusher (161) based on the control signal.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the door opening device (160) may include a first door pusher (161a) which is movably arranged between a first pusher position (P1) and a second pusher position (P2). For example, the first door pusher (161a) may be movably arranged between the first pusher position (P1) and the second pusher position (P2). The first pusher position (P1) may be the position of the first door pusher (161a) when the door (150) is in a closed position. The second pusher position (P2) may be the position to which the first door pusher (161a) has moved from the first pusher position (P1) in a direction that presses the door (150). The first door pusher (161a) can move from the first pusher position (P1) toward the second pusher position (P2) and press to open the closed door (150). The second pusher position (P2) may be the position where the first door pusher (161a) has moved forward from the first pusher position (P1).

[0140] The first door pusher (161a) can be accommodated in the space within the top table (130) when positioned at the first pusher position (P1). That is, the first door pusher (161a) can be retracted into the interior of the top table (130) when positioned at the first pusher position (P1), and can be withdrawn from the top table (130) and moved from the first pusher position (P1) to the second pusher position (P2). The top table (130) may include an opening. The first door pusher (161a) can be provided to be movable between the first pusher position (P1) and the second pusher position (P2) while passing through the opening of the top table (130).

[0141] For example, the first door pusher (161a) may be provided to be linearly movable between the first pusher position (P1) and the second pusher position (P2). The first door pusher (161a) may be provided to be linearly reciprocating with respect to the main body (100). The first door pusher (161a) may be provided to be linearly movable in the forward and backward direction (X) with respect to the main body (100). Alternatively, the first door pusher (161a) may move non-linearly with respect to the main body (100).

[0142] With this configuration, the door opening device (160) can open the door (150).

[0143] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating another example of a refrigerator door closed according to one embodiment.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 6, a refrigerator (11) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a third door (150D). The third door (150D) may be referred to as a 'dependent door'. For example, the third door (150D) may be rotatably provided relative to the second door (150R). The third door (150D) may be rotatably coupled to the second door (150R). The second door (150R) may have an opening, and the third door (150D) may open or close the opening of the second door (150R) while rotating relative to the second door (150R).

[0145] For example, the opening of the second door (150R) may be provided at the top of the door frame (153) of the second door (150R). When the third door (150D) opens the opening of the second door (150R), the user may be able to access the door shelf (152) located at the top of the second storage room (140b) or at the top of the second door (150R). That is, according to one embodiment, the right door of the refrigerator (11) may be configured as a double door comprising the second door (150R) and the third door (150D).

[0146] For example, a separate handle may be provided on the third door (150D), and the user may open the opening of the second door (150R) by holding the handle with their hand and rotating the third door (150D) relative to the second door (150R).

[0147] The second door (150R) and the third door (150D) can rotate independently of each other with respect to the main body (100). For example, the second door (150R) can be opened by a third door opening device (160D) positioned on the right side. For example, the third door (150D) can be opened by a third door opening device (160D) positioned on the right side. For example, the second door (150R) and the third door (150D) can be opened together by a third door opening device (160D).

[0148] For example, the second door (150R) or the third door (150D) may include a sensor configured to acquire a signal for operating the third door opening device (160D). For example, the sensor configured to acquire a signal for operating the third door opening device (160D) may include a second sensor (180b). That is, the third door opening device (160D) may be operated to open at least one of the second door (150R) or the third door (150D) based on a signal acquired by the second sensor (180b).

[0149] FIG. 7 is a top view illustrating the closed door of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0150] FIG. 8 is a top view illustrating a door opening device of a refrigerator according to one embodiment opening a dependent door.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the third door opening device (160D) may include a first door pusher (161a) movably positioned between a first pusher position (P1) and a second pusher position (P2), and a second door pusher (161b) movably positioned between a first pusher position (P1) and a third pusher position (P3). For example, the second door pusher (161b) may be movably reciprocated between a first pusher position (P1) and a third pusher position (P3).

[0152] The first pusher position (P1) may be the position of the second door pusher (161b) when the third door (150D) is in the closed position. The second door pusher (161b) may be accommodated in the space within the top table (130) when it is located at the first pusher position (P1). That is, when the second door pusher (161b) is located at the first pusher position (P1), it may be retracted into the interior of the top table (130) and may be withdrawn from the top table (130) and moved from the first pusher position (P1) to the third pusher position (P3). The top table (130) may include an opening. The second door pusher (161b) may be provided to be movable between the first pusher position (P1) and the third pusher position (P3) while passing through the opening of the top table (130).

[0153] The third pusher position (P3) may be a position where the second door pusher (161b) moves from the first pusher position (P1) in a direction that presses the dependent door (hereinafter referred to as the 'third door (150D)'). At this time, the third door opening device (160D) may further include a slot (163) provided to allow the second door pusher (161b) to move through the first door (150R). According to various embodiments, when the second door pusher (161b) moves in a direction that presses the third door (150D) while spaced apart in the Z direction from the upper surface of the second door (150R), the slot (163) may be omitted.

[0154] The second door pusher (161b) can move from the first pusher position (P1) toward the third pusher position (P3) and press to open the closed third door (150D). The third pusher position (P3) may be the position where the second door pusher (161b) has moved forward from the first pusher position (P1).

[0155] For example, the first door pusher (161a) may be provided to be linearly movable between the first pusher position (P1) and the third pusher position (P3). The second door pusher (161b) may be provided to be linearly reciprocating with respect to the main body (100). The second door pusher (161b) may be provided to be linearly movable in the forward and backward direction (X) with respect to the main body (100). Alternatively, the second door pusher (161b) may move non-linearly with respect to the main body (100).

[0156] FIG. 9 is a control block diagram of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 3, the refrigerator (11) may include a door opening device (160), a control panel (170), a sensor (180), a speaker (173), a communication interface (190) and / or a control unit (200). The control unit (200) may include at least one processor (210) and at least one memory (220).

[0158] According to various embodiments, the refrigerator (11) may implement various embodiments of the present document even if some of the illustrated configurations are omitted or substituted, and may include other configurations in addition to the configurations described above.

[0159] The door opening device (160) can automatically open or automatically close the door (150) under the control of the processor (210) as previously described. The door opening device (160) may include a motor drive (not shown) and a drive motor (not shown). Additionally, the door opening device (160) may further include a plurality of gears that transmit the rotation of the drive motor (110) to the hinge of the refrigerator (1).

[0160] The motor drive may receive a target speed command or a torque command from the processor (210) and may provide a driving current to the driving motor corresponding to the target speed command or the target torque command. For example, the motor drive may apply a pulse width modulated driving voltage to the driving motor to provide a driving current to the driving motor. The driving motor may generate a torque to open or close the door (150). The driving motor may include, for example, a brushless direct current motor (BLDC motor) or a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) which allows for easy control of rotational speed.

[0161] The control panel (170) can provide a user interface for interaction with the user. The control panel (170) may be provided on the main body (100) or on the door (150). For example, the control panel (170) may be provided on the outside of the first door (150L).

[0162] The control panel (170) may include an input button (171) and / or a display (172).

[0163] The input button (171) can obtain user input related to the operation of the refrigerator (11). For example, the input button (171) can obtain user input (or user command) for opening the door (150). For example, the input button (171) can obtain a refrigeration target temperature for controlling the temperature of the storage room (140) or a freezing target temperature for controlling the temperature of the storage room (140).

[0164] The input button (171) can provide an electrical signal (user input signal) corresponding to user input (e.g., a voltage signal or a current signal) to the processor (210). The processor (210) can identify the user input based on processing the user input signal.

[0165] The input button (171) may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, or a touch switch.

[0166] The display (172) can obtain operation information of the refrigerator (11) from the processor (210) and can display operation information of the refrigerator (11). For example, the display (172) can display the opening or closing of the door (150). For example, the display (172) can display the measured temperature of the refrigerator compartment or the measured temperature of the freezer compartment, etc.

[0167] Additionally, the display (172) can display user input obtained in relation to the operation of the refrigerator (11). For example, the display (172) can display user input for opening the door (150). For example, the display (172) can display the refrigeration target temperature of the refrigerator compartment (20a) or the freezing target temperature of the freezer compartment (20b) obtained through the input button (171).

[0168] The display (172) may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, etc.

[0169] The sensor (180) can detect an external object or detect input from an external object. For example, the sensor (180) can detect a user or detect input from a user.

[0170] The sensor (180) may include a touch sensor (182) that detects physical characteristics that change through a user's touch. In this case, detecting the user's touch by the touch sensor (182) may include identifying the intensity of the user's touch or the intensity of pressure applied by the user based on the changing physical characteristics. For example, the touch sensor (182) may include a pressure-sensing touch sensor that detects a change in pressure caused by a user's touch. The pressure-sensing touch sensor may detect a change in pressure applied by the user to the touch sensor (182) based on a change in resistance. For example, the touch sensor (182) may include a capacitive touch sensor that detects a change in electrical capacitance caused by a user's touch. For example, the touch sensor (182) may include a piezoelectric touch sensor that acquires an electrical signal generated in a piezoelectric material according to a change in pressure applied by a user's touch. For example, the touch sensor (182) may include an optical touch sensor that detects the degree of light blockage according to a user's touch.

[0171] The sensor (180) may include a proximity sensor (181) that identifies the presence of a user located near the refrigerator (11) and identifies the distance to the user. The proximity sensor (181) may detect physical characteristics that change due to the user's movement toward the sensor. At this time, detecting the user's movement toward the proximity sensor (181) may include identifying a change in the distance between the proximity sensor (181) and the user based on the changing physical characteristics. For example, the proximity sensor (181) may include a capacitive proximity sensor that detects the user's movement toward the proximity based on a change in electrical capacitance due to the user's movement toward the proximity. Since a change in the electric field can occur even without direct contact by the user, non-contact detection is possible. For example, the proximity sensor (181) may include an ultrasonic proximity sensor that transmits ultrasonic waves and detects the user's movement toward the proximity based on a change in the Time of Flight (ToF) of an echo signal reflected from the user. For example, the proximity sensor (181) may include an ultrasonic proximity sensor that transmits infrared light and detects the user's movement in proximity based on the Time of Flight (ToF) change of the infrared signal reflected from the user. The proximity sensor (181) may include a magnetic proximity sensor that detects the user's movement in proximity based on the change in the magnetic field due to the user's movement in proximity.

[0172] According to various embodiments, the refrigerator (11) may further include various types of sensors capable of acquiring information related to the movement of an object in addition to the aforementioned sensor.

[0173] The speaker (173) can provide information related to the operation of the refrigerator (11) in the form of auditory information. For example, the speaker (173) can provide information regarding whether the door (150) is operating and the operating status through sound. As another example, the speaker (173) can provide information regarding the location of the door (150) being opened and / or the time of opening the door (150) through voice. In this case, the output interface can provide information regarding the operation of the refrigerator (11) to the user through sensory information. For example, the output interface may include a display (172) and / or a speaker (173).

[0174] The communication interface (190) may include one or more components that enable communication with an external device, for example, at least one of a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a wireless communication module. The external device may include a user device (2), a server device (3), or another refrigerator (11).

[0175] The communication interface (190) may communicate using a network or may communicate using a short-range wireless communication method. For example, the communication interface (190) may communicate using any one of the wireless data communication methods including Wireless LAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct), infrared communication (IrDA, infrared Data Association), BLE (Bluetooth LowEnergy), NFC (Near Field Communication), Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet), WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), SWAP (Shared Wireless Access Protocol), WiGig (Wireless Gigabit Alliance), RF communication, 60 GHz millimeter wave (mm Wave) short-range communication.

[0176] The control unit (200) and the processor (210) may be mounted, for example, on a printed circuit board provided inside the door (150) or on a printed circuit board provided inside the housing.

[0177] The processor (210) may be operatively or electrically connected to the door opening device (160), control panel (170), sensor (180), speaker (173), and communication interface (190).

[0178] The processor (210) can process the output signal of the sensor (180) and output a control signal to control the door opening device (160).

[0179] The processor (210) may include a memory (220) that stores or remembers a program (multiple instructions) or data for processing signals and providing control signals. The memory (191) may include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory, S-RAM) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory, D-RAM), and non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory: ROM) and EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory: EPROM). The memory (220) may be provided integrally with the processor (210) or as a semiconductor device separate from the processor (210).

[0180] The processor (210) may further include a processing core (e.g., an arithmetic circuit, a memory circuit, and a control circuit) that processes signals and outputs control signals based on a program or data stored in memory (220).

[0181] The processor (210) processes user input signals from the control panel (170) and can identify user inputs. For example, the processor (210) can identify user inputs for opening the door (150) or user inputs for closing the door (150). The processor (210) can control the door opening device (160) to open or close the door (150) based on the user input signals from the control panel (170).

[0182] Additionally, the processor (210) can control the door opening device (160) to independently open or close the first door (150L) and the second door (150R) based on a user input signal from the control panel (170). Additionally, the processor (210) can control the door opening device (160) to independently open or close the second door (150R) and the third door (150D) based on a user input signal from the control panel (170).

[0183] The processor (210) processes an output signal obtained from a sensor (180) to generate a processing signal, generates a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, and decides to open a plurality of doors (150) including a door (150) equipped with a sensor (180) among a plurality of doors (150) based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time, and can control a door opening device (160) to open the plurality of doors (150) for which opening has been decided.

[0184] The processor (210) may decide to open a plurality of doors (150), including a door (150) equipped with a sensor (180), based on the fact that a trigger signal is continuously generated during a first reference time.

[0185] The processor (210) may extract a section in which a trigger signal is generated continuously for more than a preset threshold time among the trigger signal generation sections generated within the second reference time based on the fact that the trigger signal is generated intermittently during the second reference time, and may decide to open a plurality of doors (150) including a door (150) equipped with a sensor (180) among a plurality of doors (150) based on the fact that the number of extracted trigger signal generation sections is greater than or equal to a preset number.

[0186] The processor (210) can determine at least one door (150) among a plurality of doors (150) that have been determined to open based on the number of extracted trigger signal generation intervals, excluding the door (150) where the sensor (180) is provided.

[0187] The processor (210) can control the door opening device (160) to open a plurality of doors (150) that have been decided to be opened simultaneously or sequentially.

[0188] The processor (210) can control an output interface to output a notification to the user informing the user of the opening before opening a plurality of doors (150) that have been decided to be opened. The output interface can provide the user with information regarding the operation of the refrigerator (11) through sensory information. For example, the output interface may include a display (172) and / or a speaker (173).

[0189] The processor (210) can control the communication interface (190) to transmit a notification output signal to the external device so that, before opening a plurality of doors (150) that have been decided to be opened, the external device outputs a notification to the user informing the user of the opening. At this time, the external device may include a user device (2), a server device (3), and / or another refrigerator (11).

[0190] A processor (210) according to one embodiment processes an output signal obtained from a sensor (180) to generate a processing signal, generates a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, decides to open a plurality of doors (150) including one of the plurality of doors (150) based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time, and can control a plurality of door opening devices (160) that open the plurality of doors (150) for which the opening was decided among the plurality of door opening devices (160).

[0191] The processor (210) may decide to open a plurality of doors (150), including one of the plurality of doors (150), based on the fact that a trigger signal is continuously generated during a first reference time.

[0192] The processor (210) may extract a section in which a trigger signal is generated continuously for more than a preset threshold time among the trigger signal generation sections generated within the second reference time based on the fact that the trigger signal is generated intermittently during the second reference time, and may decide to open a plurality of doors (150) including one of the plurality of doors (150) based on the fact that the number of extracted trigger signal generation sections is greater than or equal to a preset number.

[0193] The processor (210) can determine at least one door (150) excluding one of the multiple doors (150) that have been determined to open based on the number of extracted trigger signal generation intervals.

[0194] The processor (210) can control a plurality of door opening devices (160) that open a plurality of doors (150) that have been decided to open, so as to open the plurality of doors (150) that have been decided to open simultaneously or sequentially.

[0195] The processor (210) can control the output interface to output a notification to the user informing them of the opening before opening a plurality of doors (150) that have been decided to be opened.

[0196] At this time, the output interface may include a display (172) and / or a speaker (173).

[0197] The processor (210) can control the communication interface (190) to transmit a notification output signal to an external device so that, before opening a plurality of doors (150) that have been decided to be opened, the external device outputs a notification to the user informing the user of the opening. At this time, the external device may include a user device (2).

[0198] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for processing an output signal obtained from a sensor included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0199] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another example of a method for processing a signal obtained from a sensor included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0200] The x-axis of FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11 may represent time, and the y-axis may represent the intensity of the output signal, processing signal, and trigger signal, respectively, over a certain period of time.

[0201] A sensor (180) of a refrigerator (11) according to one embodiment can acquire physical characteristics that change according to a user's touch or proximity movement as an input signal, and can convert the input signal into a digital signal to generate an output signal.

[0202] A processor (210) of a refrigerator (11) according to one embodiment can generate a processing signal by processing an output signal obtained from a sensor (180). The processor (210) can generate a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold. Based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time, the processor (210) can decide to open a plurality of doors (150), including a door (150) equipped with a sensor (180), among a plurality of doors (150). At this time, the sensor (180) of the door (150) equipped with a sensor (180) may correspond to the sensor (180) that generated an output signal for generating a trigger signal.

[0203] The output signal may include a signal in which physical characteristics that change according to the user's touch or proximity movement, acquired in the form of an analog signal by the sensor (180), are converted into a digital signal. The output signal may be provided from the sensor (180) to the processor (210).

[0204] The processing signal may include a signal in which an output signal is processed by the processor (210) according to a specific algorithm or logical operation. For example, the processing signal may correspond to a digital data signal composed of bits of 0 and 1. For example, the processor (210) may generate a "1" signal if the strength of the output signal obtained from the sensor (180) is greater than or equal to a preset strength. Additionally, the processor (210) may generate a "0" signal if the strength of the output signal obtained from the sensor (180) is less than a preset strength. Depending on various embodiments, the processing signal may be generated in the form of a pulse signal. Depending on various embodiments, the sensor (180) may generate the processing signal and provide the processing signal to the processor (210) according to the method by which the processor (210) generates the processing signal.

[0205] The trigger signal may include a signal processed by the processor (210) according to a specific algorithm or logical operation. The processor (210) may determine the opening of a plurality of doors (150) based on the trigger signal. Accordingly, the processor (210) may control the door opening device (160) based on the trigger signal.

[0206] For example, the processor (210) can generate a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold (L in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11). For example, the preset threshold may correspond to a value between 0 and 1. Accordingly, the processor (210) can generate a trigger signal based on the fact that the processing signal is greater than or equal to the threshold (L).

[0207] Specifically, referring to FIG. 10, t0 may correspond to a point in time (S1) when the sensor (180) detects a user or user input, acquires an input signal, and provides an output signal to the processor (210). The time interval greater than t0 and less than t1 may correspond to a period in which the sensor (180) detects a user or user input and provides an output signal to the processor (210), but a "0" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the strength of the output signal is less than a preset strength. t1 may correspond to a point in time (S2) when the strength of the output signal corresponds to a preset strength and a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal. The time interval greater than t1 and less than t2 may correspond to a period in which a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the strength of the output signal is greater than or equal to a preset strength. t2 may correspond to an end point (S3) when the strength of the output signal corresponds to a preset strength and a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal. The interval after t2 may correspond to an interval where a "0" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the strength of the output signal is less than a preset strength. Accordingly, trigger signals may be continuously generated in the time interval from t1 to t2.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 11, t0 may correspond to a point in time (S1) when the sensor (180) detects a user or user input, acquires an input signal, and provides an output signal to the processor (210). The time interval greater than t0 and less than t3 may correspond to a period in which the sensor (180) detects a user or user input and provides an output signal to the processor (210), but a "0" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the strength of the output signal is less than a preset strength. t3 may correspond to a point in time (S4) when the strength of the output signal corresponds to a preset strength and a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal. The time interval greater than t3 and less than or equal to t4 may correspond to a period in which a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the strength of the output signal is greater than or equal to a preset strength. t4 may correspond to an end point (S5) when the strength of the output signal corresponds to a preset strength and a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal. The time interval greater than t4 and less than t5 may correspond to a period in which a "0" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the output signal strength is less than a preset strength. t5 may correspond to a point in time (S6) where a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal because the output signal strength corresponds to a preset strength. The time interval greater than t5 and less than t6 may correspond to a period in which a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the output signal strength is greater than or equal to a preset strength. t6 may correspond to an end point (S7) where a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal because the output signal strength corresponds to a preset strength. The time interval greater than t6 and less than t7 may correspond to a period in which a "0" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the output signal strength is less than a preset strength. t7 may correspond to a point in time (S8) where a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal because the output signal strength corresponds to a preset strength. The time interval from t7 to t8 may correspond to the interval in which a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the strength of the output signal is greater than or equal to a preset strength.T8 may correspond to an endpoint (S9) where the output signal strength corresponds to a preset strength and a "1" signal is generated as a processing signal.

[0209] The interval after t8 may correspond to an interval where a "0" signal is generated as a processing signal based on the fact that the strength of the output signal is less than a preset strength. Accordingly, trigger signals may be generated intermittently in three intervals during the reference time. That is, trigger signals may be generated continuously in the time interval from t3 to t4, the time interval from t5 to t6, and the time interval from t7 to t8.

[0210] FIG. 12 is a control flowchart of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0211] A processor (210) according to one embodiment may process an output signal obtained from a sensor (180) to generate a processing signal (1100). According to various embodiments, the sensor (180) may process an output signal to generate a processing signal and provide the processing signal to the processor (210).

[0212] For example, in a refrigerator (11) including a first door (150L) and a second door (150R) as illustrated in FIG. 2, a processor (210) can generate a processing signal by processing an output signal obtained from a first sensor (180a) provided in the first door (150L).

[0213] In addition, in a refrigerator (11) including a first door (150L), a second door (150R), and a third door (150D) as illustrated in FIG. 6, a processor (210) can generate a processing signal by processing an output signal obtained from a first sensor (180a) provided in the first door (150L).

[0214] The processor (210) can determine whether the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold (1200).

[0215] If the strength of the processing signal is below a preset threshold (No to 1200), no trigger signal is generated, so the door (150) can remain in a closed state. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the first door (150L) and the second door (150R) can remain in a closed state. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the first door pusher (161a) of the first door opening device (160L) and the second door opening device (160R) is positioned at the first door pusher position (P1), so that the first door (150L) and the second door (150R) pressure is not applied. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 6, the first door (150L), the second door (150R), and the third door (150D) can remain in a closed state. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the first door pusher (161a) of the first door opening device (160L) and the first door pusher (161a) and second door pusher (161B) of the third door opening device (160D) are positioned at the first door pusher position (P1), so that the first door (150L), the second door (150R), and the third door (150D) can be maintained in a state where no pressure is applied.

[0216] If the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold (e.g., 1200), the processor (210) can generate a trigger signal (1300).

[0217] The processor (210) can determine whether to open a plurality of doors (150) based on the generation pattern of a trigger signal (1400). At this time, the plurality of doors (150) may include a door (150) equipped with a sensor (180) that provides an output signal to the processor (210) and at least one other door (150). For example, in the refrigerator (11) of FIG. 2, the processor (210) can decide to open a first door (150L) equipped with a first sensor (180a) and a second door (150R) based on the generation pattern of a trigger signal. For example, in the refrigerator (11) of FIG. 6, the processor (210) can decide to open at least one of a first door (150L) equipped with a first sensor (180a), a second door (150R), or a third door (150D) based on the generation pattern of a trigger signal.

[0218] Additionally, among the multiple doors (150) for which opening is determined, at least one door (150) excluding the door (150) equipped with a sensor (180) that provides an output signal to the processor (210) may be pre-set based on a user input signal. For example, in the refrigerator (11) of FIG. 6, when the processor (210) automatically opens multiple doors (150), including the first door (150L), through an input button (171), it may receive a user command for the automatic opening of at least one of the second door (150R) or the third door (150D) together with the first door (150L). At this time, the processor (210) in the refrigerator (11) can receive a user command via the input button (171) regarding whether to open at least one of the second door (150R) or the third door (150D) simultaneously or sequentially with the first door (150L) when automatically opening multiple doors (150), including the first door (150L).

[0219] The processor (210) can control a door opening device (160) to open a plurality of doors (150) that are determined to be opened. Accordingly, the plurality of doors (150) that are determined to be opened can be rotated. At this time, the plurality of doors (150) that are determined to be opened can be opened simultaneously or sequentially.

[0220] At this time, the processor (210) may control an output interface to provide the user with information regarding the opening of a plurality of doors (150). The output interface may include a display (172) that provides visual information and / or a speaker (173) that provides auditory information. For example, the processor (210) may control the output interface to output a notification indicating the opening before each door (150) is opened.

[0221] FIG. 13 is an example of a control flowchart of a refrigerator for determining a door to be automatically opened according to one embodiment.

[0222] In the following description, the case in which a first sensor (180a) provided in a first door (150L) provides an output signal to a processor (210) is described as an example, but is not limited thereto, and the present disclosure may be applied in the same way even in cases where a sensor (180) provided in a door (150) other than the first door (150L) among a plurality of doors (150) provides an output signal to a processor (210).

[0223] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can determine whether a trigger signal is continuously generated during a first reference time (1410). The first reference time may be pre-set and stored in memory (220). For example, in FIG. 10, it can determine whether a trigger signal is continuously generated during the first reference time from the point in time (S2) when the trigger signal begins to be continuously generated.

[0224] If it is determined that the trigger signal is not continuously generated during the first reference time (No of 1410), the processor (210) may decide to open only the first door (150L) (1411).

[0225] On the other hand, if it is determined that the trigger signal is continuously generated during the first reference time (e.g., 1410), the processor (210) may decide to open a plurality of doors (150), including the first door (150L) (1412). For example, in FIG. 10, if the time point at which the trigger signal is continuously generated is S3 from the time point at which the trigger signal begins to be continuously generated is S2, the processor may decide to open the first door (150L) and the second door (150R).

[0226] FIG. 14 is another example of a control flowchart of a refrigerator for determining a door to be automatically opened according to one embodiment.

[0227] In the following description, the case in which a first sensor (180a) provided in a first door (150L) provides an output signal to a processor (210) is described as an example, but is not limited thereto, and the present disclosure may be applied in the same way even in cases where a sensor (180) provided in a door (150) other than the first door (150L) among a plurality of doors (150) provides an output signal to a processor (210).

[0228] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can determine whether the trigger signal is generated intermittently during a second reference time (1420). The second reference time may be pre-set and stored in memory (220). For example, in FIG. 11, it can determine whether the trigger signal is generated continuously during the second reference time from S4, which is the point in time when the trigger signal begins to be generated intermittently.

[0229] If it is determined that the trigger signal is not generated intermittently during the second reference time (No of 1410), the processor (210) may decide to open only the first door (150L) (1421).

[0230] On the other hand, if it is determined that the trigger signal is generated intermittently during the second reference time (example of 1420), the processor (210) can extract a section in the trigger signal generation interval in which the trigger signal is generated continuously for longer than a preset threshold time (1422). For example, the processor (210) can extract a section t3-t4 in FIG. 11 in which the preset threshold time is T and the trigger signal is generated continuously, t5-t 6, The time length of t7-t8 is t7-t8 <T<t3-t4<t5-t6인 경우, 트리거 신호 생성 구간 중 미리 설정된 임계 시간 이상 연속적으로 트리거 신호가 생성된 구간인 t3-t4, t5-t6을 추출할 수 있다.

[0231] The processor (210) can determine whether the number of extracted trigger signal generation intervals is greater than or equal to a preset number (1423).

[0232] If the number of extracted trigger signal generation intervals is less than a preset number (No of 1423), the processor (210) may decide to open only the first door (150L) (1421).

[0233] On the other hand, if the number of extracted trigger signal generation intervals is greater than or equal to a preset number (e.g., 1423), the processor (210) may decide to open multiple doors (150), including the first door (150L) (1424). For example, if the preset number of trigger signal generation intervals is 2, since t3-t4 and t5-t6 have been extracted, the processor may decide to open multiple doors (150), including the first door (150L).

[0234] Additionally, when the processor (210) decides to open a plurality of doors (150), including the first door (150L), it may determine at least one door (150) other than the first door (150L) among the plurality of doors (150) to be opened based on the number of extracted trigger signal generation intervals. The number of extracted trigger signal generation intervals corresponding to each of the plurality of doors (150) may be pre-set and stored in memory (220). For example, in the refrigerator (11) of FIG. 6, if the number of preset trigger signal generation intervals is set to 2, the second door (150R) may be pre-set and stored in memory (220) to be opened if the number of extracted trigger signal generation intervals is 2, and the third door (150D) may be pre-set and stored. Accordingly, if there are two preset trigger signal generation intervals, t3-t4 and t5-t6, it can be decided to open the first door (150L) and the second door (150R).

[0235] FIG. 15 is a drawing illustrating another example of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0236] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating another example of a refrigerator according to one embodiment.

[0237] A refrigerator (11) according to one embodiment may include four doors (150) as shown in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, in addition to the refrigerator (11) shown in FIG. 2 or FIG. 6.

[0238] Referring to FIG. 15, a refrigerator (11) according to one embodiment may include a fourth door (150a), a fifth door (150b), a sixth door (150c), a seventh door (150e), and a sensor (180) provided in one of the doors, such as the fourth door (150a), the fifth door (150b), the sixth door (150c), or the seventh door (150e). In this case, the fourth door (150a) and the fifth door (150b), and the sixth door (150c) and the seventh door (150e) may each be arranged side by side in a horizontal direction. The fourth door (150a) and the sixth door (150c), and the fifth door (150b) and the seventh door (150e) may each be arranged side by side in a vertical direction.

[0239] The sensor (180) can detect a user or user input, receive physical characteristics that change due to the user as an input signal, convert the input signal, and provide an output signal to the processor (210). Hereinafter, the case where the sensor (180) is provided in the fourth door (150a) is described as an example, but the present disclosure can be described in the same way even if the sensor (180) is provided in one of the doors (150) of the fifth door (150b), the sixth door (150c), or the seventh door (150e).

[0240] The processor (210) can determine whether to open a plurality of doors (150), including the fourth door (150a), based on the generation pattern of a trigger signal obtained from an output signal obtained from a sensor (180).

[0241] For example, the processor (210) may decide to open the fourth door (150a) and the fifth door (150b) located horizontally parallel to the fourth door (150a). The processor (210) may decide to open the fourth door (150a) and the fifth door (150b) simultaneously or sequentially. Accordingly, the processor (210) may control a plurality of door opening devices (160) that open each of the fourth door (150a) and the fifth door (150b).

[0242] For example, the processor (210) may decide to open the fourth door (150a) and the seventh door (150e) located vertically parallel to the fourth door (150a). The processor (210) may decide to open the fourth door (150a) and the seventh door (150e) simultaneously or sequentially. Accordingly, the processor (210) may control a plurality of door opening devices (160) that open each of the fourth door (150a) and the seventh door (150e).

[0243] According to various embodiments, the refrigerator (11) may include a fourth door (150a), a fifth door (150b), a sixth door (150c), a seventh door (150e), and two sensors (180) provided one on each of two doors among the fourth door (150a), the fifth door (150b), the sixth door (150c), or the seventh door (150e).

[0244] As another example, one sensor (180) may be provided on each of the fourth door (150a) and the sixth door (150c), or one sensor (180) may be provided on each of the fifth door (150b) and the seventh door (150e). Hereinafter, the case in which one sensor (180) is provided on each of the fourth door (150a) and the sixth door (150c) is described as an example, but the case in which one sensor (180) is provided on each of the fifth door (150b) and the seventh door (150e) can be described in the same way.

[0245] The processor (210) may decide to open the fourth door (150a) and the fifth door (150b) located horizontally parallel to the fourth door (150a) based on an output signal obtained from a sensor (180) provided in the fourth door (150a). The processor (210) may decide to open the sixth door (150c) and the seventh door (150e) located horizontally parallel to the sixth door (150c) based on an output signal obtained from a sensor (180) provided in the sixth door (150c). All doors (150) can be opened even if fewer sensors (180) are provided than the number of doors (150).

[0246] As another example, one sensor (180) may be provided on each of the fourth door (150a) and the fifth door (150b), or one sensor (180) may be provided on each of the sixth door (150c) and the seventh door (150e). Hereinafter, the case in which one sensor (180) is provided on each of the fourth door (150a) and the fifth door (150b) is described as an example, but the case in which one sensor (180) is provided on each of the sixth door (150c) and the seventh door (150e) can be described in the same way.

[0247] The processor (210) may decide to open the fourth door (150a) and the sixth door (150c) located vertically parallel to the fourth door (150a) based on an output signal obtained from a sensor (180) provided in the fourth door (150a). The processor (210) may decide to open the fifth door (150a) and the seventh door (150e) located vertically parallel to the fifth door (150a) based on an output signal obtained from a sensor (180) provided in the fifth door (150a).

[0248] Accordingly, all doors (150) can be opened even if fewer sensors (180) are provided than the number of multiple doors (150).

[0249] When a sensor (180) is provided on each of a plurality of doors (150) arranged side by side in a vertical direction, a false positive may occur in which the sensor (e.g., proximity sensor (181)) of the lower door (150) detects the user when the user approaches or touches the upper door (150), causing the lower door (150) to open. In this case, the sensor detects a signal and operates even in situations where it is not actually necessary to detect. On the other hand, when a sensor (180) is provided on each of a plurality of doors (150) arranged side by side in a horizontal direction, user inconvenience caused by a false positive that may occur when a sensor (180) is provided on each of a plurality of doors (150) arranged side by side in a vertical direction can be reduced.

[0250] Referring to FIG. 16, a refrigerator (11) according to one embodiment may include an 8th door (150f), a 9th door (150g), a 10th door (150h), an 11th door (150i), and a sensor (180) provided in one of the doors (150) among the 8th door (150f), the 9th door (150g), the 10th door (150h), and the 11th door (150i). At this time, the 8th door (150f) and the 9th door (150g) may each be arranged side by side in a horizontal direction. The 10th door (150h) and the 11th door (150i) may be arranged side by side in a vertical direction with the 8th door (150f) and the 9th door (150g).

[0251] The sensor (180) can detect a user or user input, receive physical characteristics that change due to the user as an input signal, convert the input signal, and provide an output signal to the processor (210). In the following description, the case where the sensor (180) is provided in the eighth door (150f) is described as an example, but the present disclosure can be applied in the same way even if the sensor (180) is provided in one of the doors (150) of the ninth door (150g), the tenth door (150h), and the eleventh door (150i).

[0252] The processor (210) can determine whether to open a plurality of doors (150), including the eighth door (150f), based on the generation pattern of a trigger signal obtained from an output signal obtained from a sensor (180).

[0253] For example, the processor (210) may decide to open the eighth door (150f) and the eleventh door (150i) located relative to the lower part of the refrigerator (11). The processor (210) may decide to open the eighth door (150f) and the eleventh door (150i) simultaneously or sequentially. Accordingly, the processor (210) may control a plurality of door opening devices (160) that open each of the eighth door (150f) and the eleventh door (150i).

[0254] Accordingly, all doors (150) can be opened even if fewer sensors (180) are provided than the number of multiple doors (150).

[0255] In addition, even in the case of a door (150) located relatively lower than the refrigerator (11), such as the 11th door (150i), where it is difficult for the user to open the door (150) by grasping the door handle (154), the door (150) can be opened automatically by only the user's touch or proximity movement, thereby increasing the user's convenience.

[0256] FIG. 17 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a plurality of refrigerators in an IoT environment according to one embodiment.

[0257] The IoT devices (301, 302, 304) of FIG. 17 may correspond to the electronic device (10) or user device (2) of FIG. 1. Multiple refrigerators (11) may exist within the IoT environment. For example, each of the IoT devices (301, 302, 304) may correspond to multiple refrigerators (11).

[0258] Referring to FIG. 17, in an IoT environment, an IoT device may communicate with another IoT device (302) through a first network (398) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with at least one of another IoT device (304) or a server device (3) through a second network (399) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the IoT device may also communicate with another IoT device (304) through a server device (3).

[0259] According to one embodiment, the IoT device may include a processor (320), memory (330), input module (350), sound output module (355), display module (360), audio module (370), sensor module (376), interface (377), connection terminal (378), haptic module (379), camera module (380), power management module (388), battery (389), communication module (390), subscriber identification module (396), and / or antenna module (397). In this case, if the IoT device corresponds to a refrigerator (11), the processor (320) may correspond to the processor (210) of FIG. 9, the memory (330) may correspond to the memory (220) of FIG. 9, the input module (350) may correspond to the input button (171) of FIG. 9, the display module (360) may correspond to the display (172) of FIG. 9, the audio module (370) may correspond to the speaker (173) of FIG. 9, the communication module (390) may correspond to the communication interface (190) of FIG. 9, and the sensor module (376) may correspond to the sensor (180) of FIG. 9.

[0260] In the IoT device, at least one of the aforementioned components (e.g., connection terminal (378)) may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Additionally, in the IoT device, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (376), camera module (380), or antenna module (397)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (360)).

[0261] The processor (320) can execute software (e.g., a program (340)) to control at least one other component of an IoT device connected to the processor (320) and perform various data processing or operations. At this time, the component of the IoT device connected to the processor (320) may include hardware or software components.

[0262] According to one embodiment, as at least part of data processing or computation, the processor (320) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (376) or communication module (390)) in volatile memory (332), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (332), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (334). At this time, the data received from other components may include information obtained by the sensor module (376).

[0263] According to one embodiment, the processor (320) may include a main processor (321) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (323) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if an IoT device includes a main processor (321) and an auxiliary processor (323), the auxiliary processor (323) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (321) or to be specialized for a designated function. The auxiliary processor (323) may be implemented separately from the main processor (321) or as part thereof.

[0264] The auxiliary processor (323) can control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the IoT device (e.g., display module (360), sensor module (376), or communication module (390)) on behalf of the main processor (321) while the main processor (321) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (321) while the main processor (321) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. The auxiliary processor (323) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (380) or communication module (390)).

[0265] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary processor (323) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the IoT device itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or through a separate server (e.g., a server device (3)). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. An artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0266] The memory (330) may store various data acquired or used by at least one component of the IoT device (e.g., processor (320) or sensor module (376)). For example, the data may include input data or output data for software (e.g., program (340)) and related commands. The memory (330) may include volatile memory (332) or non-volatile memory (334).

[0267] The program (340) may be stored as software in memory (330) and may include, for example, an operating system (342), middleware (344), or an application (346).

[0268] The input module (350) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the IoT device (e.g., processor (320)) from outside the IoT device (e.g., user). The input module (350) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0269] The sound output module (355) can output a sound signal to the outside of the IoT device. The sound output module (355) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0270] The display module (360) can visually provide information to the outside of the IoT device (e.g., a user). The display module (360) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. Additionally, the display module (360) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

[0271] The audio module (370) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. The audio module (370) can acquire sound through the input module (350) or output sound through the sound output module (355) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (302)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the IoT device.

[0272] The sensor module (376) can detect the operating state of the IoT device (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (376) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0273] The interface (377) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the IoT device to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (302)). According to one embodiment, the interface (377) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0274] The connection terminal (378) may include a connector through which the IoT device can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (302)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (378) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0275] The haptic module (379) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that can be perceived by the user through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (379) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0276] The camera module (380) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (380) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0277] The power management module (388) can manage power supplied to the IoT device. According to one embodiment, the power management module (388) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0278] The battery (389) can supply power to at least one component of the IoT device. According to one embodiment, the battery (389) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0279] The communication module (390) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an IoT device and an external electronic device (e.g., IoT device (302), IoT device (304), or server device (3)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (390) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (320) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (390) may include a wireless communication module (392) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (394) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external IoT device (304) via a first network (398) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (399) (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (392) can identify or authenticate an IoT device within a communication network such as the first network (398) or the second network (399) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (396).

[0280] The wireless communication module (392) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (392) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (392) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module (392) can support various requirements specified by an IoT device, an external electronic device (e.g., IoT device (304)), or a network system (e.g., a second network (399)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (392) may support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for URLLC realization.

[0281] An antenna module (397) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (397) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (397) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as a first network (398) or a second network (399), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (390). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (390) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (397).

[0282] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (397) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0283] At least some of the above components can be connected to each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)) and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other.

[0284] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between an IoT device and an external device (IoT device (302), or IoT device (304)) through a server device (3) connected to a second network (399). Each of the external devices (IoT device (302), or IoT device (304)) may be a device of the same or different type as the IoT device. According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the IoT device may be performed on one or more of the external devices (IoT device (302), IoT device (304), or server device (308)). For example, if the IoT device needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the IoT device may request one or more external devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external devices that receive the request may perform at least part of the requested function or service, or additional functions or services related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the IoT device. The IoT device may provide the above result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. To this end, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technologies may be used. The IoT device may provide ultra-low latency services by, for example, using distributed computing or mobile edge computing.

[0285] In another embodiment, the external electronic device (e.g., IoT device (304)) may include an IoT (Internet of Things) device. The server device (3) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or a neural network.

[0286] According to one embodiment, an external device (304) or a server device (3) may be included within the second network (399). The IoT device may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0287] The electronic device according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various forms. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a consumer electronics device. The electronic device according to the embodiments of this document is not limited to the devices described above.

[0288] FIG. 18 is a control flowchart of a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0289] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator door automatic opening system may include a plurality of refrigerators (11). Hereinafter, the refrigerator door automatic opening system is described by way of example as including a first refrigerator (11a), a second refrigerator (11b), and a third refrigerator (11c). However, the present disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited to this disclosure, and the refrigerator door automatic opening system may include more refrigerators (11) or be provided in a form in which one of the first refrigerator (11a), the second refrigerator (11b), and the third refrigerator (11c) is omitted.

[0290] A processor (210) of one of the multiple refrigerators (11) included in the refrigerator door automatic opening system, which is equipped with a sensor (180), can process an output signal obtained from the sensor (180) to generate a processing signal (2100). According to various embodiments, the sensor (180) may process an output signal to generate a processing signal and provide the processing signal to the processor (210) of one of the refrigerators (11). For example, the processor (210) of the first refrigerator (11a) can process an output signal obtained from a sensor (180) provided on the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) to generate a processing signal.

[0291] The processor (210) can determine whether the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold (2200).

[0292] If the strength of the processing signal is below a preset threshold (No of 2200), a trigger signal is not generated, so the doors (150) of the multiple refrigerators (11) can remain closed. For example, the doors (150) of the first refrigerator (11a), the second refrigerator (11b), and the third refrigerator (11c) included in the refrigerator door automatic opening system can remain closed.

[0293] When the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold (e.g., 2200), the processor (210) of one of the refrigerators (11) can generate a trigger signal (2300).

[0294] A processor (210) of one refrigerator (11) can determine whether to open the doors (150) of a plurality of refrigerators (11) based on the generation pattern of a trigger signal (2400). At this time, the plurality of refrigerators (11) for which it is determined that the doors (150) are opened may include a refrigerator (11) equipped with a sensor (180) that provides an output signal to the processor (210), and at least one other refrigerator (11). At this time, the processor (210) of one refrigerator (11) can determine whether to open the doors (150) of the plurality of refrigerators (11) for which it is determined to open simultaneously or sequentially.

[0295] For example, the processor (210) of the first refrigerator (11) may decide that the sensor (180) opens the first refrigerator (11a) and the second refrigerator (11b) based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal. For example, the processor (210) of the first refrigerator (11) may decide that the sensor (180) opens the first refrigerator (11a), the second refrigerator (11b), and the third refrigerator (11c) based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal. At this time, the method of determining whether the door (150) of the plurality of refrigerators (11) is opened by the processor (210) of any one refrigerator (11) based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal may be applied in the same way as the method described with reference to FIG. 13 and FIG. 14.

[0296] Additionally, among the plurality of refrigerators (11) for which opening has been determined, at least one refrigerator (11) excluding the refrigerator (11) equipped with a sensor (180) that provides an output signal to the processor (210) may be pre-set based on a user input signal. For example, the processor (210) of the first refrigerator (11a) may receive a user command for the automatic opening of at least one of the second refrigerator (11b) or the third refrigerator (11c) together with the first refrigerator (11a) when the doors (150) of the plurality of first refrigerators (11), including the first refrigerator (11a), are automatically opened via an input button (171). At this time, the processor (210) in the first refrigerator (11) can receive a user command regarding whether to open at least one door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) or the third refrigerator (11c) simultaneously or sequentially with the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) through the input button (171) when the doors (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) are automatically opened.

[0297] A processor (210) of one refrigerator (11) can control a door opening device (160) of each refrigerator (11) to open the door (150) of the refrigerator (11) that has been decided to open (2500). Accordingly, the door (150) of the refrigerator (11) that has been decided to open can be rotated. For example, a processor (210) of the first refrigerator (11a) can control a door opening device (160) to open the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a).

[0298] In addition, the processor (210) of one refrigerator (11) can control the communication interface (190) to transmit a door opening signal to at least one refrigerator (11), excluding one of the multiple refrigerators (11) that have determined the opening of the door (150) (2500). For example, when the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and at least one door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) or the third refrigerator (11c) is determined, the processor (210) of the first refrigerator (11a) can control the communication interface (190) to transmit a door opening signal to at least one of the second refrigerator (11b) or the third refrigerator (11c). At this time, the door opening signal transmitted through the communication interface (190) of one refrigerator (11) may include timing information regarding the time of opening the door. Accordingly, the multiple doors (150) whose opening is determined may be opened simultaneously or sequentially.

[0299] A processor (210) of one refrigerator (11) can control an output interface (190) to output a notification indicating opening before opening the door of one refrigerator (11). In addition, a processor (210) of one refrigerator (11) can control a communication interface (190) to transmit a notification output signal to at least one refrigerator (11) excluding one refrigerator (11) among the multiple refrigerators (11) that have decided to open, so as to output a notification indicating opening before opening the door (150) of at least one refrigerator (11) excluding one refrigerator (11) among the multiple refrigerators (11) that have decided to open.

[0300] The processor (210) of one refrigerator (11) can control the communication interface (190) to transmit a notification output signal to the user device (2) to output a notification to the user device (2) to inform the user of the opening before opening the doors (150) of the multiple refrigerators (11) that have decided to open.

[0301] According to various embodiments, the above-described signal transmission and reception process may be performed via a server device (3). Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 19 to 22, the transmission and reception of signals and the operation of each device accordingly will be described. FIGS. 19 to 22 describe, as an example, that a user or user input is detected from a sensor (180) included in the first refrigerator (11a) among a plurality of refrigerators (e.g., a first refrigerator (11a), a second refrigerator (11b), a third refrigerator (11c), etc.) included in a door automatic opening system, and a trigger signal is obtained from the output signal of the sensor (180) to determine whether to open the door (150) of the plurality of refrigerators (11). However, the present disclosure may be applied in the same way even when a user or user input is detected from a sensor (180) included in another refrigerator (11) among the plurality of refrigerators (11) included in the door automatic opening system, and a trigger signal is obtained from the output signal of the sensor (180).

[0302] FIG. 19 is an example of a flowchart for automatically opening the doors of a plurality of refrigerators according to a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0303] According to an automatic door opening system according to one embodiment, a plurality of refrigerators (11) can transmit and receive control signals through device-to-device communication and perform a series of operations for automatic door opening.

[0304] According to one embodiment, the first refrigerator (11a) may decide to open the first refrigerator (11a) and the second refrigerator (11b) (3100).

[0305] Accordingly, the first refrigerator (11a) can transmit a door opening signal to the second refrigerator (11b) to open the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) (3101).

[0306] Additionally, the first refrigerator (11a) can transmit a notification output signal to the second refrigerator (11b) to output an alarm to notify the user of the opening of the door (150) before the second refrigerator (11b) opens the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) (3102).

[0307] At this time, the transmission of the door opening signal and the notification output signal from the first refrigerator (11a) to the second refrigerator (11b) can be performed simultaneously or sequentially.

[0308] Accordingly, the first refrigerator (11a) can output a notification related to the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) before the door (150) is opened (3103). After that, the first refrigerator (11a) can open the door (150) by controlling the door opening device (160) (3104). According to various embodiments, the opening of the door (150) in the first refrigerator (11a) and the output of the notification related to the opening of the door (150) can be performed simultaneously.

[0309] The second refrigerator (11b) can output a notification related to the opening of the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) before the door (150) is opened (3105). After that, the second refrigerator (11b) can open the door (150) by controlling the door opening device (160) (3105). According to various embodiments, the opening of the door (150) in the second refrigerator (11b) and the output of the notification related to the opening of the door (150) can be performed simultaneously.

[0310] In the present disclosure, the opening of the door (150) in the first refrigerator (11a) and the notification output related to the opening of the door (150) are performed in priority over the opening of the door (150) in the second refrigerator (11b) and the notification output related to the opening of the door (150), but is not limited thereto, and the opening of the door (150) in the second refrigerator (11b) and the notification output related to the opening of the door (150) may be performed in priority over the opening of the door (150) in the first refrigerator (11a) and the notification output related to the opening of the door (150).

[0311] FIG. 20 is another example of a flowchart for automatically opening the doors of a plurality of refrigerators according to a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0312] According to an embodiment of the automatic door opening system, control signals can be transmitted and received and a series of operations for automatic door opening can be performed through direct communication (Device-to-Device Communication) between a plurality of refrigerators (11) and a user device (2). In particular, through communication with the user device (2), a notification regarding door opening can be provided to the user through the user device (2).

[0313] According to one embodiment, the first refrigerator (11a) may decide to open the first refrigerator (11a) and the second refrigerator (11b) (3200).

[0314] Accordingly, the first refrigerator (11a) can transmit a door opening signal to the second refrigerator (11b) to open the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) (3201).

[0315] Additionally, the first refrigerator (11a) can transmit a notification output signal to the user device (2) to output an alarm to notify the user of the opening of the door (150) before the user device (2) opens the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and the second refrigerator (11b) (3202).

[0316] Accordingly, the user device (2) can output a notification related to the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) before the opening of the door (150) of each refrigerator (11) (3203).

[0317] After that, the first refrigerator (11a) can open the door (150) by controlling the door opening device (160) (3204), and the second refrigerator (11b) can open the door (150) by controlling the door opening device (160) (3205).

[0318] According to various embodiments, the opening of the door (150) in the first refrigerator (11a) and the opening of the door (150) in the second refrigerator (11b) may be performed simultaneously or sequentially.

[0319] According to various embodiments, the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and / or the second refrigerator (11b) and the notification output related to the opening of the door (150) by the user device (2) can be performed simultaneously.

[0320] FIG. 21 is another example of a flowchart for automatically opening the doors of a plurality of refrigerators according to a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0321] According to an embodiment of the automatic door opening system, control signals can be transmitted and received and a series of operations for automatic door opening can be performed through device-to-device communication between a plurality of refrigerators (11) and a user device (2). In particular, a notification regarding door opening can be provided to the user through the user device (2) via communication with the user device (2). In addition, the user device (2) may transmit a door opening signal to at least one other refrigerator (11) that has been controlled from one of the plurality of refrigerators (11) that has decided to open.

[0322] According to one embodiment, the first refrigerator (11a) may decide to open the first refrigerator (11a) and the second refrigerator (11b) (3300).

[0323] Additionally, the first refrigerator (11a) can transmit information and a notification output signal related to the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) to the user device (2) so as to output an alarm to notify the user of the opening of the door (150) before the user device (2) opens the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and the second refrigerator (11b) (3301).

[0324] Accordingly, the user device (2) can transmit a door opening signal to the second refrigerator (11b) to open the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) (3302).

[0325] Accordingly, the user device (2) can output a notification regarding the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) before the opening of the door (150) of each refrigerator (11) (3303).

[0326] After that, the first refrigerator (11a) can open the door (150) by controlling the door opening device (160) (3304), and the second refrigerator (11b) can open the door (150) by controlling the door opening device (160) (3305).

[0327] According to various embodiments, the opening of the door (150) in the first refrigerator (11a) and the opening of the door (150) in the second refrigerator (11b) may be performed simultaneously or sequentially.

[0328] According to various embodiments, the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and / or the second refrigerator (11b) and the notification output related to the opening of the door (150) by the user device (2) can be performed simultaneously.

[0329] FIG. 22 is another example of a flowchart for automatically opening the doors of a plurality of refrigerators according to a refrigerator door automatic opening system according to one embodiment.

[0330] According to an automatic door opening system according to one embodiment, a plurality of refrigerators (11) and user devices (2) can indirectly transmit and receive control signals through server-to-server-to-device communication via a server device (3) and perform a series of operations for automatic door opening.

[0331] When passing through the server device (3), data can be stored in the server device (3), and analysis and processing can be performed based on the data stored in the server device (3), thereby enabling complex calculations and control.

[0332] According to one embodiment, the first refrigerator (11a) can transmit information regarding the output signal obtained from the sensor (180) to the server device (3) (3400).

[0333] Accordingly, the server device (3) processes the output signal to generate a processing signal, generates a trigger signal based on the strength of the processing signal being greater than or equal to a preset threshold, and can decide to open the doors (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and the second refrigerator (11b) among the plurality of refrigerators (11) based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time (3401).

[0334] Accordingly, the server device (3) can transmit a door opening signal to the first refrigerator (11a) to open the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) (3402). Additionally, the server device (3) can transmit a door opening signal to the second refrigerator (11b) to open the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) (3403). At this time, the transmission of the door opening signal from the server device (3) to the first refrigerator (11a) or the second refrigerator (11b) can be performed simultaneously or sequentially.

[0335] Additionally, the server device (3) can transmit a notification output signal to the user device (2) to output an alarm to notify the user of the door (150) opening before the user device (2) opens the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and the second refrigerator (11b) (3404).

[0336] Accordingly, the user device (2) can output a notification related to the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and the door (150) of the second refrigerator (11b) before the opening of the door (150) of each refrigerator (11) (3405).

[0337] After that, the first refrigerator (11a) can open the door (150) by controlling the door opening device (160) (3206), and the second refrigerator (11b) can open the door (150) by controlling the door opening device (160) (3407).

[0338] According to various embodiments, the opening of the door (150) in the first refrigerator (11a) and the opening of the door (150) in the second refrigerator (11b) may be performed simultaneously or sequentially.

[0339] According to various embodiments, the opening of the door (150) of the first refrigerator (11a) and / or the second refrigerator (11b) and the notification output related to the opening of the door (150) by the user device (2) can be performed simultaneously.

[0340] The technical problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0341] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively.

[0342] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0343] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be decoded by a computer. Examples include ROM (read-only memory), RAM (random access memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0344] Additionally, computer-readable recording media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, 'non-transitory storage media' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily. For example, 'non-transitory storage media' may include a buffer in which data is stored temporarily.

[0345] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

Claims

1. Main body; A plurality of doors rotatably coupled to the main body; At least one door opening device that independently opens each of the plurality of doors mentioned above; A sensor provided on any one of the plurality of doors above and detecting a user or user input; and A refrigerator comprising: a processor that processes an output signal obtained from the sensor to generate a processing signal, generates a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, determines to open at least two doors including one of the plurality of doors based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time, and controls the at least one door opening device to open the at least two doors based on the determination to open the at least two doors.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above processor; is, A refrigerator that decides to open at least two doors, including any one of the plurality of doors, based on the fact that the above trigger signal is continuously generated during a first reference time.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above processor; is, Based on the fact that the above trigger signal is generated intermittently during a second reference time, A refrigerator that decides to open at least two doors, including any one of the plurality of doors, based on the fact that among the plurality of trigger signal generation intervals generated within the second reference time, at least one trigger generation interval in which the trigger signal is continuously generated for longer than a preset threshold time, and the number of the extracted at least one trigger signal generation interval is greater than or equal to a preset number.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above processor; is, A refrigerator that determines at least one door excluding any one door among a plurality of doors whose opening is determined based on the number of extracted at least one trigger signal generation intervals, based on the decision to open at least two doors including any one door among the plurality of doors.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above processor; is, A refrigerator that controls a door opening device to open a plurality of doors determined to open simultaneously or sequentially, such that at least two doors determined to open are opened.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above sensor; is, A refrigerator comprising a touch sensor that acquires physical characteristics that change by the touch of the user as an input signal.

7. In Paragraph 7, The above touch sensor is, A refrigerator comprising at least one of a pressure-sensing touch sensor, a capacitive touch sensor, a piezoelectric touch sensor, and an optical touch sensor.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above sensor; is, A refrigerator comprising a proximity sensor that acquires a physical characteristic that changes based on the user’s movement toward the sensor as an input signal.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above proximity sensor; is, A refrigerator comprising at least one of a capacitive proximity sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, an infrared proximity sensor, and a magnetic proximity sensor.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above refrigerator is, It further includes an output interface that provides a notification regarding the operation of the refrigerator to the user through sensory information. The above processor; is, A refrigerator that controls the output interface to output a notification to the user notifying them of the opening before opening a plurality of doors that have been decided to open.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above refrigerator is, It further includes a communication interface that performs communication with an external device, The above processor; is, A refrigerator that controls the communication interface to transmit a notification output signal to the external device so that, before opening the plurality of doors determined to open, the external device outputs a notification to the user indicating the opening.

12. A plurality of refrigerators comprising a door, a door opening device for opening the door, a communication interface for communicating with an external device, and a processor electrically connected to the door opening device and the communication interface; One of the above plurality of refrigerators is, It further includes a sensor provided in the above door that detects a user or user input, and The processor of any one of the above refrigerators, A refrigerator door automatic opening system that processes an output signal obtained from a sensor included in any one of the refrigerators to generate a processing signal, generates a trigger signal based on the fact that the strength of the processing signal is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, decides to open the doors of at least two refrigerators including any one of the plurality of refrigerators based on the generation pattern of the trigger signal during a reference time, controls the door opening device to open the door of any one of the refrigerators, and controls the communication interface to transmit a door opening signal to at least one refrigerator excluding any one of the at least two refrigerators for which the door opening was decided.

13. In Paragraph 12, The processor of any one of the above refrigerators, A refrigerator door automatic opening system that determines to open the doors of at least two refrigerators, including any one of the plurality of refrigerators, based on the fact that the above trigger signal is continuously generated during a first reference time.

14. In Paragraph 12, The processor of any one of the above refrigerators, Based on the fact that the above trigger signal is generated intermittently during a second reference time, A refrigerator door automatic opening system that extracts at least one trigger generation section in which the trigger signal is continuously generated for longer than a preset threshold time among a plurality of trigger signal generation sections generated within the second reference time, and decides to open the doors of at least two refrigerators including one of the plurality of refrigerators based on the fact that the number of the extracted at least one trigger signal generation section is greater than or equal to a preset number.

15. In Paragraph 14, The processor of any one of the above refrigerators, A refrigerator that determines the remaining at least one refrigerator excluding the one refrigerator among the plurality of refrigerators whose opening is determined based on the number of extracted at least one trigger signal generation intervals, based on the decision to open the door of the at least two refrigerators including the one refrigerator among the plurality of refrigerators.

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