KR20240142858A - Refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

A refrigerator according to the present embodiment may include a cabinet forming a first storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include an inner door for opening and closing the first storage compartment. The inner door may form a second storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include an outer door for opening and closing the second storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a latch receiving portion provided on the inner door. The refrigerator may further include a locking device provided on the outer door and selectively engaged with and restrained by the latch receiving portion.
The locking device may include an operating unit that is provided on the outer door and has a displacement by a user's operation. The locking device may further include a connecting unit that is connected to the operating unit. The locking device may further include a latch unit that is selectively brought into contact with the connecting unit and rotated. The latch unit may be selectively coupled to the inside of the latch receiving portion.

Description

REFRIGERATOR

This specification relates to a refrigerator.

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

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

The refrigerators mentioned above are gradually becoming larger and more multifunctional in line with the trend of changes in eating habits and the advancement of products, and refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenient devices that take into account the convenience of users are being released.

The above refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage space, and a door connected to the cabinet and having the storage space. The door may be provided with a door storage section for storing food.

Recently, refrigerators with double doors are provided, which have an outer door attached to an inner door that opens and closes the storage space. The user can use the storage space by opening the inner door, and can use the door storage compartment by opening the outer door while the inner door is closed.

Prior art document Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0055887 discloses a refrigerator equipped with a hook that can selectively catch and release the inner door and the outer door.

The refrigerator disclosed in the above prior art document includes an inner door for opening and closing a storage compartment, an outer door rotatably coupled to a front of the inner door, a hook engaging groove formed on the inner door, an operating handle that is rotatable about a transverse axis coupled to the outer door and has a movable contact portion, and a locking member that has a hook that is rotatable about a longitudinal axis coupled to the outer door and can be caught and released by the hook engaging groove, and a passive contact portion that can selectively come into contact with the movable contact portion.

The refrigerator disclosed in the above prior document has the following problems.

First, when a door storage compartment is provided on the door, there is a problem that the door sags downward due to the weight of the food stored in the door storage compartment as well as the weight of the door itself. When the door sags downward, there is a problem that the hook is not accurately engaged with the hook fastening groove, or the hook is detached from the hook fastening groove.

Second, since the hook rotates while extending vertically based on the longitudinal axis, there is a problem that a large amount of operating space is required according to the rotation radius of the hook. In other words, a large amount of free space is required between the inner door and the outer door for the hook to rotate, so there is a problem that the door volume increases.

Publication number (publication date): 10-2021-0055887 (May 18, 2021).

The present embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the fastening force of a locking unit can be prevented from being weakened due to sagging of the door.

The present embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of preventing a latch lever from being separated from a latch housing.

The present embodiment provides a refrigerator capable of minimizing the operating radius of a latch unit.

The present embodiment provides a refrigerator in which a locking unit can be stably supported and operated.

The present embodiment provides a refrigerator in which the assembly of a locking device is easy and convenient.

A refrigerator according to one aspect may include a cabinet forming a first storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include an inner door for opening and closing the first storage compartment. The inner door may form a second storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include an outer door for opening and closing the second storage compartment. The refrigerator may further include a latch receiving portion provided on the inner door. The refrigerator may further include a locking device provided on the outer door and selectively engaged with and restrained by the latch receiving portion.

The locking device may further include an operating unit that is provided on the outer door and has a displacement by a user's operation. The locking device may further include a connecting unit that is connected to the operating unit. The locking device may further include a latch unit that is selectively contacted with the connecting unit and rotated. The latch unit may be selectively coupled to the inside of the latch receiving portion.

The above latch unit may include a latch lever that is rotatable about a rotation axis in the forward/reverse direction.

The above latch unit may further include a latch housing in which the latch lever is accommodated.

The latch lever may further include a body portion inserted into the inside of the latch housing. The latch lever may further include a restraint portion formed at an end of the body portion. The restraint portion may be selectively caught and restrained in the latch receiving portion by rotation of the body portion.

The above-mentioned restraint member can extend in a direction intersecting the rotation axis from an end of the extension member.

The above latch lever may further include a pressurizing portion that extends from the outer surface of the body portion and is pressurized by the connecting unit.

The above latch lever may further include a coupling portion extending from an outer surface of the body portion and to which an elastic member is coupled.

The above latch housing may include a through hole through which the latch lever passes.

The above passage hole may include a first passage hole through which the body part passes. The passage hole may further include a second passage hole through which the pressurizing part passes. The passage hole may further include a third passage hole through which the coupling part passes.

The above latch lever may further include a protrusion that protrudes from an end of the body portion and is inserted into the inside of the latch housing.

The above-mentioned operating unit may include a lever housing provided on the outer door. The above-mentioned operating unit may further include an operating lever installed so as to be rotatable in the forward and backward direction based on a rotation axis within the lever housing. The above-mentioned operating unit may further include a contact lever installed so as to be rotatable in the up and down direction according to the contact of the above-mentioned operating lever.

The above-described operating lever may include a first lever member including a rotating portion extending in an up-and-down direction. The first lever member may further include a pressing portion extending radially from an outer surface of the rotating portion. The operating lever may further include a first elastic member connected to the first lever member to provide an elastic force.

The contact lever may include a second lever member spaced apart from the first lever member. The contact lever may further include a second elastic member connected to the second lever member to provide an elastic force.

When the above operating unit is moved, the connecting unit is pushed up to rotate the latch lever, so that the latch lever can be separated from the latch receiving portion.

According to the proposed invention, the following effects are achieved:

First, since the latch lever rotates around the forward-backward rotation axis and is caught and restrained in the latch receiving portion, there is an advantage in that the locking force of the locking unit is prevented from weakening due to sagging of the door.

Second, since the restraint extends from the end of the latch lever in a direction intersecting the rotation axis, the operating radius of the latch unit can be minimized. Therefore, it can contribute to the compactness of the refrigerator.

Third, since the latch lever has a structure in which it is stably supported on the latch housing, the phenomenon of the latch lever being separated from or sagging from the latch housing can be prevented.

Fourth, since the parts that make up the latch unit and the operating unit are configured so that they can be assembled, there is an advantage in that assembly is easy and simple.

Fifth, it has the advantage of improved convenience of operation because the outer door can be opened independently by simply pulling the door.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an open outer door of the first door according to the present embodiment.
Figure 3 is a drawing showing the lower part of the first door.
Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a locking device according to the present embodiment installed in a capdeco.
Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of the operating unit of Figure 4.
Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the operating lever of Figure 5.
Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 6 viewed from a different direction.
Figure 8 is a bottom perspective view of the operating unit with the operating lever removed.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a contact lever according to the present embodiment.
Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the contact lever.
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of Figure 4.
Figures 12 and 13 are longitudinal cross-sectional views showing the contact lever being raised and lowered by the operating lever.
FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view showing a latch unit according to the present embodiment being restrained in a latch receiving portion.
Figure 15 is a bottom perspective view of the latch unit of Figure 14.
Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of Figure 14.
FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of a latch housing according to the present embodiment.
Figure 18 is a rear view of the latch housing.
Figure 19 is a front view of the latch housing.
FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of a latch lever according to the present embodiment.
Figure 21 is a front perspective view of the latch lever.
Figure 22 is a front view of the latch lever.
Figures 23 and 24 are drawings showing the latch lever rotating in the opening direction.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When adding reference numerals to components in the drawings, it should be noted that the same components are given the same numerals as much as possible even if they are shown in different drawings. In addition, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if it is determined that a specific description of a related known configuration or function hinders understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Also, in describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but another component may also be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" between each component.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 is a drawing showing an open state of an outer door of a first door according to the present embodiment. Fig. 3 is a drawing showing a lower portion of a first door according to the present embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the refrigerator (1) according to the present embodiment can be independently installed in a kitchen. The refrigerator (1) can be installed in a form accommodated in a furniture cabinet indoors. When the refrigerator (1) is installed in a furniture cabinet indoors, the refrigerator (1) can be installed alone or arranged left and right together with other refrigerators.

The above refrigerator (1) may include a cabinet (10) having storage space.

The above refrigerator (1) may further include a refrigerator door (20) for opening and closing the storage space.

The above storage space is not limited, but may be divided into a first space on the upper side and a second space on the lower side. The refrigerator door (20) may also include a first door (30) that opens and closes the first space and a second door (40) that opens and closes the second space.

The first space may be a refrigerator, and the second space may be a freezer. Or the first space may be a freezer, and the second space may be a refrigerator. Or the storage space may include a first space and a second space divided into left and right sides. Or the storage space may be a single space, and a single refrigerator door may open and close the storage space.

At least one of the first door (30) and the second door (40) may be a rotary type door. Alternatively, a single refrigerator door (20) may be a rotary type door.

The first door (30) may be provided with a storage room (31) that forms a separate storage space that is distinct from the interior of the first space. Accordingly, when the first door (30) is closed, the interior of the first space may become the first storage room, and the interior of the storage room (31) may become the second storage room.

The first door (30) may include an inner door (50) for opening and closing the first storage room. The first door (30) may further include an outer door (60) for opening and closing the second storage room.

The inner door (50) may be rotatably coupled to the front of the cabinet (10). The outer door (60) may be rotatably coupled to the front of the inner door (50). The inner door (50) and the outer door (60) may have the same hinge axis. Alternatively, the inner door (50) and the outer door (60) may have hinge axes that operate independently.

The refrigerator (1) may further include a hinge device (11) that connects the first door (30) to rotate relative to the cabinet (10). The hinge device (11) may include a first hinge that connects the inner door (50) and the cabinet (10). The hinge device (11) may further include a second hinge that connects the inner door (50) and the outer door (60).

The inner door (50) may be connected between the upper end of the inner door (50) and the upper surface of the cabinet (10) by the hinge device (11). The inner door (50) may be rotatably coupled to the front of the cabinet (10).

A separate hinge is also provided at the bottom of the inner door (50), so that the inner door (50) can be rotatably mounted. The first storage compartment can be opened and closed according to the rotation of the inner door (50). The inner door (50) can be rotated to store food in the first storage compartment.

An opening (51) may be formed in the inner door (50). The opening (51) may be formed by opening a portion of the front of the inner door (50). The opening (51) may be formed to a size corresponding to the front of the storage room (31).

The storage room (31) may be provided on the back surface of the inner door (50) corresponding to the rear of the opening (51). The storage room (31) may have a form in which the front is opened. The storage room (31) may be configured so that access to the interior of the storage room (31) is possible through the opening (51).

A sealer may be provided around the back surface of the inner door (50) to be in contact with the front surface of the cabinet (10) when the inner door (50) is closed. The sealer may be formed of an elastically deformable material and configured to be compressible. The sealer may be configured to have a magnet provided therein so as to be in close contact with the cabinet (10).

The above opening (51) can be configured to allow food stored inside the storage room (31) to be taken in and out while the inner door (50) is closed. By opening the opening (51) while the inner door (50) is blocking the first storage room, food can be put in or taken out of the storage room (31).

The above outer door (60) may be configured to open and close the opening (51). The above outer door (60) may be rotatably mounted on the inner door (50) by the hinge device (11). The above outer door (60) may be rotated based on the rotation axis of the inner door (50).

The outer door (60) may be provided with a lower hinge. The lower hinge may be provided at the bottom of the outer door (60). The lower hinge may be mounted on the inner door (50) to rotatably support the inner door (50).

A sealer (61) may be provided around the back surface of the outer door (60) to come into contact with the front surface of the inner door (50) when the outer door (60) is closed. The sealer (61) may be formed of an elastically deformable material and configured to be compressible.

The outer door (60) may include a cap deco (62) forming the lower part of the outer door (60). The cap deco (62) may form the entirety or part of the lower part of the outer door (60). The cap deco (62) may be formed to extend in the left-right direction along the lower part of the outer door (60). The cap deco (62) may be formed in a hollow frame shape. The cap deco (62) may have a shape in which a part of the lower part is open.

The inner door (50) and the outer door (60) can each rotate independently. The first storage room and the second storage room can be selectively opened and closed by independent operation of the inner door (50) and the outer door (60).

The above refrigerator (1) may further include a locking device that selectively binds the inner door (50) to the outer door (60).

The locking device can selectively connect the inner door (50) and the outer door (60). The locking device can control the outer door (60) to open alone when the outer door (60) is opened, or the outer door (60) and the inner door (50) to open together.

The above locking device may include a latch unit (100) for selectively engaging and restraining the outer door (60) with the inner door (50).

The latch unit (100) may be installed inside the outer door (60). The latch unit (100) may be exposed to the back surface of the outer door (60). The latch unit (100) may be coupled to a latch receiving portion (52) formed on the front surface of the inner door (50).

The latch receiving portion (52) may be formed on one side of the inner door (50) corresponding to the position of the latch unit (100). The latch receiving portion (52) may be formed on the front edge of the inner door (50). The latch receiving portion (52) may be formed by recessing from the front side of the inner door (50) toward the rear.

When the outer door (60) is closed, the latch unit (100) can be inserted into the inside of the latch receiving portion (52). The latch unit (100) can be restrained while being inserted into the inside of the latch receiving portion (52), thereby maintaining the outer door (60) in a closed state.

The above locking device may further include an operating unit (200) that is operated to release the restraint state of the latch unit (100).

The above-described manipulation unit (200) may be provided on the outer door (60). The manipulation unit (200) may be displaced by a user's manipulation. The manipulation unit (200) may be installed on the inner side of the outer door (60). The manipulation unit (200) may be installed in the inner space of the cap deco (62) forming the lower part of the outer door (60). The manipulation unit (200) may be exposed by the cap deco (62) and rotated by a user's manipulation.

The above locking device may further include a connecting unit (300) connecting the latch unit (100) and the operating unit (200).

The above connecting unit (300) may be provided between the latch unit (100) and the operating unit (200). The connecting unit (300) may selectively contact the latch unit (100) to convert the displacement of the operating unit (200) into the displacement of the latch unit (100).

The above connecting unit (300) can transmit the pressure received from the operating unit (200) to the latch unit (100). The above connecting unit (300) can be installed inside the outer door (60).

Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing a locking device according to the present embodiment installed in a capdeco. Fig. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the operating unit of Fig. 4 as viewed from below. Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the operating lever of Fig. 5. Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the operating lever of Fig. 6 as viewed from a different direction.

Fig. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the operating unit with the operating lever removed. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a contact lever according to the present embodiment. Fig. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the contact lever. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of Fig. 4.

Referring to FIGS. 4 to 11, the operating unit (200) may include a lever housing (210). The operating unit (200) may further include an operating lever (220) accommodated within the lever housing (210). The operating unit (200) may further include a contact lever (230) accommodated within the lever housing (210).

The lever housing (210) may be installed on the inside of the outer door (60). The lever housing (210) may be installed on the bottom of the outer door (60). For example, the lever housing (210) may be installed on the inside of the cap deco (62). The lever housing (210) may be formed of a plastic injection molded product. The lever housing (210) may be detachably coupled to the inside of the cap deco (62).

The above lever housing (210) can form an internal space. The above lever housing (210) can have a shape with an open lower surface. The above lever housing (210) can be formed to be long in the left-right direction according to the shape of the cap deco (62).

The operating lever (220) may be accommodated inside the lever housing (210). The contact lever (230) may be accommodated inside the lever housing (210). The operating lever (220) and the contact lever (230) may be spaced apart from each other. The operating lever (220) may be arranged at the inner lower portion of the lever housing (210). The contact lever (230) may be arranged at the inner upper portion of the lever housing (210). The operating lever (220) may be arranged at the rear of the contact lever (230). When the operating lever (220) rotates and moves, a part of the operating lever (220) may come into contact with and press the contact lever (230).

The above lever housing (210) may include a lever housing body (211) forming an internal space. The lever housing body (211) may have a shape in which the upper surface and the side surface are closed. The lever housing body (211) may have a shape in which the lower surface is open. The lever housing body (211) may be formed to be long from left to right as a whole.

The above lever housing (210) may further include an operating lever mounting portion (213) on which the operating lever (220) is mounted. The operating lever mounting portion (213) may be formed on the inside of the lever housing body (211).

The interior of the lever housing body (211) may include a lever receiving groove (212a) in which a part of the operating lever (220) is received. The interior of the lever housing body (211) may include a gripping groove (212b) in which a user's hand may be gripped. The lever receiving groove (212a) and the gripping groove (212b) may be partitioned by the operating lever mounting portion (213). The user may open the outer door (60) alone by inserting his/her hand into the lever receiving groove (212a) and operating the operating lever (220). The user may open the inner door (50) and the outer door (60) together by inserting his/her hand into the gripping groove (212b).

The above-mentioned operating lever mounting portion (213) may be formed to protrude downward from the upper surface of the lever housing body (211). The above-mentioned operating lever mounting portion (213) may have a cylindrical shape. The above-mentioned operating lever mounting portion (213) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an empty interior. The above-mentioned operating lever mounting portion (213) may have a lower surface and a portion of a side surface open.

The above-described operating lever mounting portion (213) may have an operating lever receiving portion (214) formed therein, into which the operating lever (220) is mounted. The operating lever receiving portion (214) may be formed to extend upward from the lower surface of the operating lever mounting portion (213). The operating lever receiving portion (214) may extend to a portion of the side surface of the operating lever mounting portion (213). Accordingly, the lower surface and the side surface of the operating lever receiving portion (214) may be exposed to the outside.

The above lever housing (210) may further include a contact lever mounting portion (215) on which the contact lever (230) is mounted. The contact lever mounting portion (215) may be formed on the upper surface of the lever housing body (211). The contact lever mounting portion (215) may be formed by extending a portion of the upper surface of the lever housing body (211) upward.

The above contact lever mounting portion (215) may be formed on the upper surface of the lever housing body (211) corresponding to the upper portion of the lever receiving groove (212a). The above contact lever mounting portion (215) may have a hexahedral shape. The above contact lever mounting portion (215) may have a shape in which the upper surface and the side surface are closed. The above contact lever mounting portion (215) may have a shape in which the lower surface is open.

The contact lever mounting portion (215) may have a contact lever receiving portion (216) formed therein, into which the contact lever (230) is mounted. The contact lever receiving portion (216) may have a hexahedral shape. The contact lever receiving portion (216) may be connected to the lever receiving groove (212a).

A through hole (217) through which the connection unit (300) passes may be formed on the upper surface of the contact lever mounting portion (215). The through hole (217) may be formed to have a diameter larger than the diameter of the connection unit (300). The connection unit (300) may pass through the through hole (217) and be connected to the contact lever (230).

The above-described operating lever (220) may include a first lever member (221) that is rotatably coupled within the operating lever mounting portion (213). The first lever member (221) may be rotated at a predetermined angle based on an axis perpendicular to the ground. The first lever member (221) may be installed so as to be rotatable in the forward and backward direction based on the rotation axis.

The first lever member (221) may include a rotating member (221a) positioned inside the operating lever mounting member (213). The first lever member (221) may include a pressing member (221b) extending from the rotating member (221a).

The above-mentioned rotating part (221a) may be formed to be long in a direction perpendicular to the ground or in an up-down direction. The above-mentioned rotating part (221a) may have a rotation axis. The rotation axis may be perpendicular to the ground.

The above pressing portion (221b) may be formed to extend outwardly from the outer surface of the above rotating portion (221a). The above pressing portion (221b) may be formed to extend radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface of the above rotating portion (221a). The above pressing portion (221b) may be formed to be rounded so as to have a constant curvature.

When the above-described operating lever (220) is mounted on the operating lever mounting portion (213), the pressing portion (221b) can be placed on the lever receiving groove (212a) of the lever housing (210). As the pressing portion (221b) is exposed on the lever receiving groove (212a), the user can pull the pressing portion (221b) to horizontally move the pressing portion (221b) forward.

The above-mentioned operating lever (220) may further include a first elastic member (222) that is connected to the first lever member (221) and provides elasticity.

The first elastic member (222) may be arranged inside the operating lever mounting portion (213). The first elastic member (222) may elastically support an end of the first lever member (221). The first elastic member (222) may be fitted to an end of the first lever member (221). The first elastic member (222) may be interposed between the upper surface of the operating lever mounting portion (213) and the upper end of the first lever member (221).

The first elastic member (222) may include, for example, a torsion spring. The first elastic member (222) may be formed by winding a wire multiple times. The first elastic member (222) may be formed in a cylindrical or conical shape.

The first elastic member (222) can elastically support the first lever member (221). The first elastic member (222) can maintain the first lever member (221) in a state in which it is rotated in the first direction. That is, unless an external force is applied, the first lever member (221) maintains a state in which it is rotated in the first direction with respect to an axis perpendicular to the ground, but when an external force is applied, the first lever member (221) can be rotated in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction.

The above operating lever (220) may further include a lever cover (223) coupled to the first lever member (221).

The above lever cover (223) can be coupled to the operating lever mounting portion (213). The lever cover (223) can cover the first lever member (221). The lever cover (223) can support the lower end of the first lever member (221). The lever cover (223) can prevent the lever cover (223) from being detached downward.

The above contact lever (230) can be operated by the operation of the operating lever (220). The contact lever (230) can be installed so as to be able to move up and down according to the contact of the operating lever (220). When the operating lever (220) is rotated and moved, a part of the operating lever (220) can press the contact lever (230).

The above contact lever (230) may be installed in the contact lever mounting portion (215). The contact lever (230) may be positioned spaced apart from the front of the operating lever (220). The contact lever (230) may include a second lever member (231) that is movably coupled within the contact lever mounting portion (216).

The second lever member (231) may include a lever body (231a). The lever body (231a) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The lever body (231a) may be formed to be long in the vertical direction. The lever body (231a) may be arranged perpendicular to the ground within the contact lever mounting portion (216).

The lever body (231a) may have a part accommodated inside the contact lever mounting portion (215). The other part of the lever body (231a) may be exposed to the outside of the contact lever mounting portion (215). Specifically, the upper part of the lever body (231a) may be accommodated inside the contact lever mounting portion (215). The lower part of the lever body (231a) may protrude into the lever receiving groove (212a). A part of the lever body (231a) protruding into the lever receiving groove (212a) may come into contact with a part of the operating lever (220).

The second lever member (231) may further include a contact surface (231b) formed at an end of the lever body (231a). The contact surface (231b) may be formed at a lower end of the lever body (231a). The contact surface (231b) may face the first lever member (221). The contact surface (231b) may form a lower surface or lower end of the lever body (231a). The contact surface (231b) may be understood as a portion that comes into contact with the operating lever (220) when the operating lever (220) rotates and moves.

The above contact surface (231b) may be formed to be inclined. When the above contact surface (231b) comes into contact with the operating lever (220), it may slide upward along the upper surface of the operating lever (220). The above contact surface (231b) may be inclined upward from the front to the rear.

When the above-described operating lever (220) pushes the above-described contact lever (230), the contact surface (231b) of the above-described contact lever (230) can move along the end of the above-described operating lever (220) to be raised or lowered. A pressure surface (221c) that comes into contact with the contact surface (231b) may be formed on the first lever member (221) of the above-described operating lever (220). The pressure surface (221c) may be formed to be inclined or rounded.

The second lever member (231) may further include a lever flange (231c) extending outwardly from the lever body (231a).

The above lever flange (231c) may extend radially from the outer surface of the lever body (231a). The lever flange (231c) may be formed to surround the outer surface of the lever body (231a) in a circular shape. The diameter of the lever flange (231c) may be formed to be larger than the diameter of the lever body (231a).

The contact lever (230) may further include a second elastic member (232) that is connected to the second lever member (231) to provide elasticity. The contact lever (230) may further include a lever case (233) that accommodates the second lever member (231). The contact lever (230) may further include a lever cover (234) that is connected to the lever case (233).

The second elastic member (232) may be arranged inside the lever case (233) to elastically support the second lever member (231). The second elastic member (232) may be fitted into the lever body (231a) of the second lever member (231). The second elastic member (232) may be supported by contact with the lever flange (231c) of the second lever member (231). The second elastic member (232) may be interposed between the second lever member (231) and the lever cover (234).

The second elastic member (232) may be a compression spring. The second elastic member (232) may be maintained in a compressed state inside the lever case (233). The second elastic member (232) may elastically support the second lever member (231). The second elastic member (232) may allow the second lever member (231) to maintain a state in which it has moved downward. That is, unless an external force is applied, the second lever member (231) may be maintained in a state in which it has moved downward, but when an external force is applied, the second lever member (231) may be moved upward.

When the second lever member (231) is raised or lowered by an external force, the second elastic member (232) is compressed, and when the external force is removed, the second lever member (231) can be lowered to the original position by the restoring force of the second elastic member (232).

The lever case (233) can accommodate the second lever member (231). The lever case (232) can accommodate the second elastic member (232). The lever case (233) can form an internal space that accommodates the second lever member (231) and the second elastic member (232). The lever case (233) can be inserted into the inside of the contact lever mounting portion (215).

The upper surface of the lever case (233) may be partially opened. The second lever member (231) may be inserted into the lever case (233). The upper surface of the lever case (233) may be partially opened so that the connection unit (300) may pass through.

The above connection unit (300) can be connected to the contact lever (230) through the upper surface of the lever case (233) after passing through the through hole (217) of the contact lever mounting portion (215). The connection unit (300) can be inserted into and coupled to the second lever member (231).

The above lever cover (234) can be coupled to the upper portion of the lever case (233). The lever cover (234) can prevent the second lever member (231) and the second elastic member (232) installed inside the lever case (233) from being separated to the outside.

The second lever member (231) may be first fitted into the inside of the lever case (233) and then the second elastic member (232) may be installed. The lever cover (234) may be coupled to the upper portion of the lever case (233) to support the end of the second elastic member (232).

Figures 12 and 13 are longitudinal cross-sectional views showing the contact lever being raised and lowered by the operating lever.

Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13 together, as described above, the operating lever (220) and the contact lever (230) are installed inside the lever housing (210).

The above-mentioned operating lever (220) may be positioned at the inner lower portion of the lever housing (210), and the above-mentioned contact lever (230) may be positioned at the inner lower portion of the lever housing (210). In addition, the above-mentioned contact lever (230) may be positioned spaced apart from the front of the above-mentioned operating lever (220).

As long as the initial state or external force is not applied, the operating lever (220) and the contact lever (230) can be maintained in a spaced state. A user can pull the operating lever (220) from the rear to the front (or from the inside to the outside) using a hand. When the operating lever (220) is pulled, the pressing portion (221b) of the operating lever (220) can be rotated and moved forward to pressurize the contact lever (230). At this time, the first elastic member (222) can be compressed.

As shown in Fig. 12, when the operating lever (220) presses the contact lever (230), the contact surface (231b) of the contact lever (230) can move up and down along the pressing surface (221c) of the operating lever (220) to compress the second elastic member (232).

And when the above-mentioned operating lever (220) is pulled as far as possible, the pressing portion (221b) of the above-mentioned operating lever (220) moves further forward as shown in FIG. 13, so that the lower portion of the above-mentioned contact lever (230) can be supported by the upper portion of the pressing portion (221b).

When the contact lever (230) moves upward, the connection unit (300) connected to the contact lever (230) presses the latch unit (100) to rotate the latch unit (100). When the latch unit (100) rotates, the restraint state of the latch unit (100) restrained in the latch receiving portion (52) is released, and the outer door (60) can be opened independently.

Meanwhile, when the external force applied to the operating lever (220) disappears, the operating lever (220) can be moved from the front to the rear (or from the outside to the inside) and returned by the restoring force of the first elastic member (222). And the contact lever (230) can be lowered to the original position by the restoring force of the second elastic member (232).

Fig. 14 is a rear perspective view showing the latch unit according to the present embodiment being restrained in the latch receiving portion. Fig. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the latch unit of Fig. 14 as viewed from below. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16 of Fig. 14.

Fig. 17 is a rear perspective view of a latch housing according to the present embodiment. Fig. 18 is a rear perspective view of a latch housing. Fig. 19 is a front perspective view of a latch housing. Fig. 20 is a rear perspective view of a latch lever according to the present embodiment. Fig. 21 is a front perspective view of a latch lever. Fig. 22 is a front perspective view of a latch lever.

Referring to FIGS. 14 to 22, a latch unit (100) according to the present embodiment may be installed on one side of an outer door (60). The latch unit (100) may be installed on the back surface of the outer door (60). The latch unit (100) may be selectively coupled to a latch receiving portion (52) formed on the inner door (50).

The latch unit (100) may include a latch lever (110) inserted into the latch receiving portion (52). The latch unit (100) may further include a third elastic member (120) connected to the latch lever (110) to provide elasticity. The latch unit (100) may further include a latch housing (130) that accommodates the latch lever (110). The latch housing (130) may accommodate the third elastic member (120).

The latch lever (110) can be rotated about a rotation axis while housed inside the latch housing (130). The latch lever (110) can be formed long in a direction horizontal to the ground. The latch lever (110) can be rotated about a rotation center axis (C) horizontal to the ground.

The above latch lever (110) may include a body portion (111). The above latch lever (110) may further include a restraining portion (112) extending radially from the body portion (111).

The body part (111) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The body part (111) may be accommodated inside the latch housing (130). The body part (111) may be coupled to the inside of the latch housing (130). The body part (111) may be arranged horizontally with respect to the ground inside the latch housing (130). The body part (111) may be provided to be rotatable inside the latch housing (130). The body part (111) may be rotated around a rotation center axis (C) horizontally with respect to the ground inside the latch housing (130).

The body part (111) may be placed between the outer door (60) and the inner door (50). The body part (111) may be exposed to the outside by passing through the latch housing (130). The body part (111) may pass through the latch housing (130) and then pass through the latch receiving part (52). The body part (111) may be supported by being fitted into the latch housing (130).

The above restraint (112) may be formed at an end of the body (111). The restraint (112) may be coupled to the inside of the latch receiving portion (52). The restraint (112) may be formed at the rear end of the body (111). The restraint (112) may rotate together with the latch lever (110) when it rotates, and may be selectively caught and restrained on the inside of the latch receiving portion (52).

The above restraint (112) may extend radially outward from an end of the body (111). The restraint (112) may extend in a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis (C) from an end of the body (111). For example, the restraint (112) may be formed in a screw shape or a wave shape. The outer surface of the restraint (112) may be formed to be inclined or rounded.

The above restraint portion (112) may include a center portion (112a) formed at an end of the body portion (111). The restraint portion (112) may further include a latch portion (112b) extending from one side of the center portion (112a). The latch portion (112b) may be formed in one or more pieces. For example, the latch portion (112b) may include a pair of latch portions (112b) formed on each side of the center portion (112a).

The above pair of latch parts (112b) may each protrude radially from the center part (112a). The above pair of latch parts (112b) may protrude in opposite directions from the center part (112a). The above pair of latch parts (112b) may be formed symmetrically with respect to the center part (112a).

The above pair of latch parts (112b) can pass through the insertion hole (53) formed in the latch receiving part (52). The above pair of latch parts (112b) can be located inside the latch receiving part (52). The length from one end to the other end of the above pair of latch parts (112b) can be formed longer than the width or the horizontal length of the insertion hole (53). The length from one end to the other end of the above pair of latch parts (112b) can be formed shorter than the height or the vertical length of the insertion hole (53).

Therefore, when the pair of latch parts (112b) are arranged in a direction horizontal to the ground or diagonally, the pair of latch parts (112b) can be bound to the insertion port (53). In addition, when the pair of latch parts (112b) are arranged in a direction vertical to the ground, the pair of latch parts (112b) can be released from being bound to the insertion port (53). By the rotational motion of the pair of latch parts (112b), the latch lever (110) can be selectively bound to the latch receiving portion (52).

The latch portion (112b) may include an inclined surface. The inclined surface may have an outer surface that is inclined or rounded. The latch portion (112b) may have a screw shape in which the outer surface is continuously inclined or rounded.

When the outer door (60) is opened alone, the latch portion (112b) can be released from the insertion port (53) of the latch receiving portion (52) and returned to its original state. Then, when the outer door (60) is closed with the latch portion (112b) returned to its original state, the latch portion (112b) moves along the inclined surface formed on the inner side of the latch receiving portion (52), and the latch lever (110) naturally rotates and the latch portion (112b) can be caught and restrained in the insertion port (53).

The above latch receiving portion (52) may be positioned to face the latch unit (100). The above latch receiving portion (52) may be installed on the inner or rear surface of the outer door (60).

The latch receiving portion (52) may have an insertion hole (53) formed on the inside. The latch receiving portion (52) may be formed in a plate shape. The latch lever (110) may pass through the inside of the insertion hole (53). An inclined surface (54) may be formed on the inside of the insertion hole (53).

The above-mentioned inclined surface (54) may be configured to allow the latch lever (110) to naturally rotate and engage the insertion port (53) when the latch lever (110) passes through the latch receiving portion (52) from the front side to the rear side.

The above-mentioned inclined surface (54) may be formed on each of the inner sides of the latch receiving portion (52). At least a portion of the above-mentioned inclined surface (54) may be formed to be inclined or rounded. The above-mentioned inclined surface (54) may be rounded to have a certain curvature.

The above body part (111) may include a pressurizing part (113) that is pressurized by the connecting unit (300). The pressurizing part (113) may be formed by extending from one side of the body part (111). When the pressurizing part (113) is pressurized by the connecting unit (300), the body part (111) may be rotated at a certain angle based on the rotation center axis (C).

The above-mentioned pressurizing portion (113) may extend outwardly from the outer surface of the body portion (111). The pressurizing portion (113) may extend radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface of the body portion (111). With reference to FIG. 19, when the restraining portion (112) is arranged in a state horizontal to the ground, the angle between the line passing through the restraining portion (112) and the line passing through the pressurizing portion (113) may be 45 degrees. When the restraining portion (112) is arranged in a state horizontal to the ground, the pressurizing portion (113) may be arranged to be inclined downwardly at the lower side of the body portion (111).

The above body part (111) may further include a joining part (114) to which the third elastic member (120) is joined. The joining part (114) may extend outwardly from the outer surface of the body part (111). The joining part (114) may extend radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface of the body part (111). For example, the joining part (114) may be formed in a hook shape.

The above pressurizing portion (113) may be positioned axially rearward of the body portion (110). The connecting portion (114) may be positioned axially forward of the body portion (110). The connecting portion (114) may be positioned forward of the pressurizing portion (113).

The above-mentioned pressurizing portion (113) and the above-mentioned connecting portion (114) may be arranged adjacently on the circumference of the above-mentioned body portion (110). For example, the angle between the above-mentioned pressurizing portion (113) and the above-mentioned connecting portion (114) may be within 90 degrees.

The above body part (111) may further include a protrusion (115) that is mounted on the latch housing (130). The protrusion (115) may be formed by protruding one side of the body part (111).

The above protrusion (115) may be formed by protruding the front surface of the body portion (111). The above protrusion (115) may be formed by protruding a portion of the front surface of the body portion (111) forward. The above protrusion (115) may be inserted into an insertion hole (135) formed in the latch housing (130).

The third elastic member (120) may be placed inside the latch housing (130). The third elastic member (120) may elastically support the latch lever (110). The third elastic member (120) may connect the latch housing (130) and the latch lever (110).

The third elastic member (120) may be provided on the outer surface of the latch lever (110). One end of the third elastic member (120) may be coupled to the latch housing (130). The other end of the third elastic member (120) may be coupled to the coupling portion (114). The third elastic member (120) may limit the amount of rotation or the angle of rotation of the latch lever (110).

The third elastic member (120) may be a tensile spring. When the latch lever (110) is rotated by an external force, the third elastic member (120) is tensioned, and when the external force disappears, the latch lever (110) can be rotated and returned to its original position by the restoring force of the third elastic member (120).

In this embodiment, when the latch lever (110) rotates in the first direction with respect to the rotation center axis (C), the restraint portion (112) can be restrained on the inside of the latch receiving portion (52).

In addition, when the latch lever (110) is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the rotation center axis (C), the restraint portion (112) can be released from restraint on the inside of the latch receiving portion (52).

The latch housing (130) can accommodate the latch lever (110). The latch housing (130) can accommodate the third elastic member (120). The latch housing (130) can be installed on one side of the outer door (60).

The above latch housing (130) may include a latch housing body (131). The latch housing body (131) may form an internal space (132) that accommodates the latch lever (110). The internal space (132) may accommodate the third elastic member (120).

The latch housing (130) may have an approximately hexahedral shape. The latch housing (130) may include a front surface, a side surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, and a back surface. Part of the front surface and the upper surface of the latch housing (130) may be opened.

The latch housing (130) may further include a latch passage hole (133) through which the latch lever (110) passes. The latch lever (110) may be inserted into the latch passage hole (133). The body portion (111), the pressing portion (113), and the coupling portion (114) of the latch lever (110) may pass through the latch passage hole (133). The latch passage hole (133) may be formed by cutting out a portion of the back surface of the latch housing (130).

The above latch pass-through hole (133) may include a first pass-through hole (133a) through which the body part (111) passes. The first pass-through hole (133a) may be formed by penetrating the back surface of the latch housing (130). The first pass-through hole (133a) may have a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the body part (111). The body part (111) may be inserted into the first pass-through hole (133a). The first pass-through hole (133a) may support an outer surface of the body part (111).

The above latch passage hole (133) may further include a second passage hole (133b) through which the pressurizing portion (113) passes. The second passage hole (133b) may be formed by penetrating the back surface of the latch housing (130). The second passage hole (133b) may be formed by extending one side of the first passage hole (133a). The second passage hole (132b) may be formed by extending upward from the upper portion of the first passage hole (133a).

The above latch passage hole (133) may further include a third passage hole (133c) through which the coupling part (114) passes. The third passage hole (133c) may be formed by penetrating the back surface of the latch housing (130). The third passage hole (133c) may be formed by extending one side of the first passage hole (133a). The third passage hole (133c) may be formed by extending downward from the lower portion of the first passage hole (133a). The third passage hole (133c) may extend to the lower end of the latch housing (130).

The latch housing (130) may further include a mounting groove (134) for mounting the latch lever (110). A part of the body part (111) may be inserted into the mounting groove (134). The mounting groove (134) may be formed on the inner front side of the latch housing (130). The mounting groove (134) may be formed by the inner front side of the latch housing (130) being sunken forward. The mounting groove (134) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the front side of the body part (111).

The above latch housing (130) may further include an insertion hole (135) into which the protrusion (115) of the latch lever (110) is inserted. The insertion hole (135) may be formed so as to be further recessed forward from the mounting groove (134). The insertion hole (135) may extend from the mounting groove (134) to the front of the latch housing (130).

The front end of the latch lever (110) can be inserted into the mounting groove (134) and the insertion hole (135). Since a part of the latch lever (110) is inserted into the latch passage hole (133), the latch lever (110) can be stably supported on the latch housing (130).

In addition, since the latch passage hole (133) is formed corresponding to the shape of the latch lever (110), even if the latch lever (110) is rotated while inserted into the latch housing (130), the phenomenon of the latch lever (110) being detached from the latch housing (130) or sagging downward can be prevented.

The latch housing (130) may further include a coupling portion (136) to which the third elastic member (130) is coupled. The coupling portion (136) may be spaced apart from and arranged on the upper side of the latch lever (110). The coupling portion (136) may be formed on the inner surface of the latch housing (130). For example, the coupling portion (136) may be formed on the inner side of the side surface of the latch housing (130). The coupling portion (136) may be arranged on the upper side of the space into which the latch lever (110) is inserted. The coupling portion (135) may support the upper end of the third elastic member (130).

The above latch housing (130) may further include a through hole (137) through which the connection unit (300) passes.

The above through hole (137) may be formed on the lower surface of the latch housing (130). The through hole (137) may be formed by cutting a portion of the lower surface of the latch housing (130). The connection unit (300) may pass through the through hole (137) and be positioned inside the latch housing (130). The connection unit (300) may be positioned at a position where an end pushes up the pressurizing portion (113). The end of the connection unit (300) may be positioned below the pressurizing portion (113).

The latch housing (130) may further include an opening (138) for assembling the latch lever (110). For example, the opening (138) may be formed on a side surface of the latch housing (138). The opening (138) may be formed by cutting off a portion of the side surface of the latch housing (138). A user may perform an assembly to connect the latch lever (110) and the third elastic member (120) through the opening (138).

Figures 23 and 24 are drawings showing the latch lever rotating in the opening direction.

Referring to FIG. 14, FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, the operation of the latch unit will be described.

First, when the outer door (60) is completely closed, the restraint portion (112) of the latch lever (110) is caught and restrained in the insertion hole (53) of the latch receiving portion (52).

In this state, if the user wants to open the inner door (60) independently, by pulling the first lever member (221) of the operating lever (220), the first lever member (221) can move horizontally forward based on the rotation axis.

When the first lever member (221) moves forward, the first lever member (221) can push up the second lever member (231) of the contact lever (230) located in front of the first lever member (221).

Since the second lever member (231) is connected to the lower end of the connection unit (300), the connection unit (300) can move upward due to the elevation of the second lever member (231).

When the above connection unit (300) moves upward, the upper end of the connection unit (300) presses the pressure portion (113) upward so that the latch lever (110) can be rotated in the direction of opening.

When the latch lever (110) is rotated in the opening direction, the restraint portion (112) of the latch lever (110) is rotated together, and the restraint portion (112) can be released from the latch receiving portion (52). Accordingly, the outer door (60) can be opened independently. In the open state of the latch lever (110), the first elastic member (222) can be compressed, the second elastic member (232) can be compressed, and the third elastic member (120) can be tensioned.

And when the hand pulling the first lever member (221) is released after the opening of the outer door (60), the first lever member (221) can rotate around the rotation axis and move horizontally backwards to return due to the elastic restoring force of the first elastic member (222).

When the first lever member (221) moves backward, the second lever member (231) can be lowered by the elastic restoring force of the second elastic member (232). And, due to the lowering of the second lever member (231), the connection unit (300) can be moved downward.

When the above connecting unit (300) moves downward, the upper end of the connecting unit (300) is separated from the pressurizing portion (113), and the latch lever (110) can be rotated in the closing direction by the elastic restoring force of the third elastic member (120) to return to the initial state.

When the outer door (60) is closed with the latch lever (110) returned to its initial state, the restraint portion (112) of the latch lever (110) rotates along the inclined surface of the latch receiving portion (52), and the latch lever (110) naturally rotates and the restraint portion (112) can be caught and restrained in the insertion port (53).

Claims (15)

Cabinet forming the first storage room;
An inner door that opens and closes the first storage compartment and forms a second storage compartment;
An external door for opening and closing the second storage room;
A latch receiving portion provided on the inner door; and
Equipped with the above outer door, it includes a locking device that is selectively engaged with the latch receiving portion,
The above locking device,
An operating unit provided on the outer door and having a displacement by the user's operation;
a connection unit connected to the above operating unit; and
A refrigerator comprising a latch unit that is selectively contacted and rotated with the connecting unit and selectively coupled to the inner side of the latch receiving portion. In paragraph 1,
A refrigerator wherein the latch unit includes a latch lever that is rotatable about a rotation axis in the forward/reverse direction. In the second paragraph,
A refrigerator, wherein the latch unit further includes a latch housing in which the latch lever is accommodated. In the third paragraph,
The above latch lever,
A body portion inserted into the inside of the above latch housing;
A refrigerator including a restraint formed at an end of the body portion and selectively caught and restrained in the latch receiving portion by rotation of the body portion. In paragraph 4,
A refrigerator in which the above-mentioned restraint member extends in a direction intersecting the rotation axis from an end of the above-mentioned extension member. In paragraph 4,
A refrigerator wherein the latch lever further includes a pressurizing portion that extends from an outer surface of the body portion and is pressurized by the connecting unit. In the second paragraph,
A refrigerator in which the above latch lever further includes a joining portion extending from an outer surface of the body portion and to which an elastic member is joined. In paragraph 7,
A refrigerator wherein the latch housing includes a passage hole through which the latch lever passes. In Article 8,
The above passage hole is,
A first passage hole through which the above body part passes;
A second passage hole through which the pressurized portion passes; and
A refrigerator comprising a third passage hole through which the above-mentioned joint passes. In paragraph 4,
A refrigerator wherein the latch lever further includes a projection that protrudes from an end of the body portion and is inserted into the inside of the latch housing. In paragraph 1,
The above operating unit,
A lever housing provided on the above outer door;
An operating lever installed so as to be rotatable in the forward and backward directions based on a rotation axis within the above lever housing; and
A refrigerator including a contact lever installed so as to be able to move up and down according to the contact of the above operating lever. In Article 11,
The above operating lever,
A first lever member including a rotating portion extending in a vertical direction and a pressing portion extending in a radial direction from an outer surface of the rotating portion; and
A refrigerator comprising a first elastic member connected to the first lever member to provide elastic force. In Article 12,
The above contact lever,
a second lever member spaced apart from the first lever member; and
A refrigerator comprising a second elastic member connected to the second lever member to provide elastic force. Cabinet forming the first storage room;
An inner door that opens and closes the first storage compartment and forms a second storage compartment;
An external door for opening and closing the second storage room;
A latch receiving portion provided on the inner door; and
Equipped with the above outer door, it includes a locking device that is selectively engaged with the latch receiving portion,
The above locking device,
An operating unit provided on the outer door and having a displacement by the user's operation;
A latch unit spaced apart from the above-mentioned operating unit and provided to selectively engage with the latch receiving portion; and
A connecting unit is provided between the above-mentioned operating unit and the above-mentioned latch unit, and includes a connecting unit that selectively contacts the above-mentioned latch unit to convert the displacement of the above-mentioned operating unit into the displacement of the above-mentioned latch unit.
A refrigerator in which, when the above operating unit is moved, the connecting unit is pushed up to rotate the latch lever, thereby separating the latch lever from the latch receiving portion. Cabinet forming the first storage room;
An inner door that opens and closes the first storage compartment and forms a second storage compartment;
An external door for opening and closing the second storage room;
A latch receiving portion provided on the inner door; and
Equipped with the above outer door, it includes a locking device that is selectively engaged with the latch receiving portion,
The above locking device,
An operating unit provided on the outer door and having a displacement by the user's operation;
A latch unit spaced apart from the above-mentioned operating unit and provided to selectively engage with the latch receiving portion; and
A connecting unit is provided between the above-mentioned operating unit and the above-mentioned latch unit, and includes a connecting unit that selectively contacts the above-mentioned latch unit to convert the displacement of the above-mentioned operating unit into the displacement of the above-mentioned latch unit.
The above operating unit,
A lever housing provided on the above outer door;
An operating lever installed so as to be rotatable in the forward and backward directions based on a rotation axis within the above lever housing; and
A refrigerator including a contact lever installed so as to be able to move up and down according to the contact of the above operating lever.

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