KR102630165B1 - Refrigerator possible with open the door - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a refrigerator capable of automatically opening the door. A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a sensing mechanism including a first sensing unit that receives a push force that presses the refrigerator door and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the push force, and a push member that operates to open the refrigerator door. It includes a door opening device that determines whether to open the door according to the detection signal output from the first detection unit, generates a door opening command signal, and controls the door opening device, wherein the user opens the door by touching a switch. By supporting easy command input, the door can be opened automatically through the switch touch function.

Description

Refrigerator with automatic door opening {REFRIGERATOR POSSIBLE WITH OPEN THE DOOR}

The present invention relates to a refrigerator, and more specifically, to a refrigerator whose door can be opened automatically through a simple switch touch function.

A refrigerator is a home appliance that can store objects such as food at low temperatures in a storage room provided in a cabinet. Since the storage room is surrounded by an insulating wall, the inside of the storage room can be maintained at a lower temperature than the outside temperature.

Depending on the temperature range of the storage room, the storage room can be divided into a refrigerator room or a freezer room.

The user opens and closes the storage room using the door. To put an object into or take it out of the storage room, the user opens the door. Generally, a door is rotatably provided in a cabinet, and a gasket is provided between the door and the cabinet.

Therefore, when the door is closed, the gasket is in close contact between the door and the cabinet, preventing leakage of cold air from the storage room. As the adhesion of the gasket increases, the effect of preventing cold air leakage can increase.

In order to increase the adhesion of the gasket, the gasket may be formed of a rubber magnet, and a magnet may be provided inside the gasket. However, when the adhesion of the gasket increases, a correspondingly greater force is required when opening the door.

Recently, refrigerators with an auto-closing function have been introduced. This auto-closing function uses the adhesion of the gasket, magnetic force, and elastic force from the spring to automatically close the refrigerator door when it is slightly open.

Additionally, the auto-closing function refers to a function that prevents the refrigerator door from opening on its own even when the refrigerator is slightly tilted forward.

Therefore, it takes more force to open the door of recently released refrigerators compared to previous refrigerators. This is because, in order to open the door of the refrigerator, the user must pull the door with a force greater than the adhesion force of the gasket, magnetic force, and the elastic force of the spring.

Recently, a door opening device that automatically opens the door has been proposed.

A prior document, Korea Patent Publication No. 2011-0040030 (publication date 20110420), discloses a method of opening a refrigerator door.

In the case of the prior literature, a door handle is provided on the refrigerator door, and an operating unit is provided on the door handle. And a door opening device is provided in the cabinet forming the storage space. When the user operates the control panel, the push rod that constitutes the door opening device pushes the door to open it.

However, according to prior literature, the user must directly hold the handle to operate the control unit, which causes inconvenience to the user, and it is difficult to operate the control unit in a state where both hands are not free, such as when the user is holding food or food. there is.

Korean Patent Publication No. 2011-0040030 (publication date 20110420)

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator that allows a user to easily input a door opening command using a switch touch method, thereby enabling the door to be opened automatically through the switch touch function.

In addition, the present invention generates a door opening command according to the input period of the detection signal generated when the switch is touched and the magnitude of the voltage of the detection signal, thereby generating the door opening command with a simple and simplified circuit or chip structure. The purpose is to provide a refrigerator that allows

Another object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator that prevents the refrigerator door from being opened unintentionally and prevents a door opening command from being determined to have been entered while the refrigerator door is closed.

The objects of the present invention are not limited to the objects mentioned above, and other objects and advantages of the present invention that are not mentioned can be understood by the following description and will be more clearly understood by the examples of the present invention. Additionally, it will be readily apparent that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof indicated in the patent claims.

A refrigerator capable of automatically opening a door according to an embodiment of the present invention to solve the above problems includes a refrigerator door and a first detection unit that receives a push force that pressurizes the refrigerator door and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the push force. It may include a door opening device that includes a push member that operates to open the door, and a control unit that generates a door opening command signal and controls the door opening device according to a detection signal output from the first detection unit.

Accordingly, the control unit compares the period in which the voltage magnitude of the detection signal input from the first detection unit is input greater than the preset reference voltage with the preset first reference time, and the period in which the voltage magnitude of the detection signal input is greater than the reference voltage is input. When the signal is output for more than the first reference time, a door opening command signal can be generated.

In addition, the control unit may determine whether a door opening command is input based on information detected by the first detection unit, and when the control unit determines that a door opening command signal has been input, it detects whether the refrigerator door is opened. It can be determined whether the door opening condition is satisfied based on the information detected by the second detection unit.

The refrigerator according to the present invention supports the user to easily input a door opening command using a switch touch method, and can automatically open the door through the switch touch function.

In particular, by allowing the door opening command to be input by pushing the cabinet door or the refrigerator door, the user can easily input the door opening command with not only his or her hands but also various parts or objects held by the user while standing in front of the refrigerator. It becomes possible.

In addition, the refrigerator according to the present invention generates a door opening command according to the input period of the detection signal generated when the switch is touched and the magnitude of the voltage of the detection signal, thereby generating the door opening command with a simple and simplified circuit or chip structure. can be created. Accordingly, the effect of reducing the manufacturing process and cost of components used to open the refrigerator door can be expected.

1 is a diagram showing a built-in refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a plan view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is a diagram showing a state in which a sensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a cabinet.
Figure 4 is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship between the door hinge and the sensing mechanism.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a sensing mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a sensing mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along AA of Figure 5.
Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a door opening device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of an upper hinge assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 is a block diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a partial configuration of the control unit shown in FIG. 10.
Figure 12 is a flowchart for explaining a method of controlling a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 13 is a diagram for explaining the state of the refrigerator door according to signal recognition from the first and second detectors.
Figure 14 is a waveform diagram for explaining the process for determining the detection signal of the first detection unit as an open signal.
15 to 17 are views showing the state of the hinge assembly when the refrigerator door is opened by the door opening device.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the movement trajectory of a line sequentially connecting the first white finger, the third white finger, the seventh white finger, and the sixth hinge in the hinge assembly of FIGS. 15 to 17.
Figure 19 is a diagram showing a state in which the refrigerator door has been completely opened.

The above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages will be described in detail later with reference to the attached drawings, so that those skilled in the art will be able to easily implement the technical idea of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of known technologies related to the present invention may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description will be omitted. In the drawings, identical reference numerals are used to indicate identical or similar components.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

Figure 1 is a diagram showing a built-in refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 is a plan view of the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Additionally, Figure 3 is a diagram showing a state in which the sensing mechanism is installed in a cabinet according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 4 is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship between the door hinge and the sensing mechanism.

1 to 4, the refrigerator 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be built into kitchen furniture.

For example, a furniture cabinet 1 may be installed in a kitchen, a specific space, or other space, and a refrigerator 10 may be accommodated in the furniture cabinet 1. The cabinet 1 may include a cabinet door 2.

The refrigerator 10 may include a cabinet 11 having a storage compartment 12 and a refrigerator door 13 that opens and closes the storage compartment 12.

The cabinet 11 may be accommodated in the cabinet 1, and the refrigerator door 13 may be connected to the cabinet door 2.

When the cabinet door 2 rotates, the refrigerator door 13 connected to the cabinet door 2 rotates together to open the storage compartment 12. And when the refrigerator door 13 closes the storage compartment 12, the cabinet door 2 covers the refrigerator door 13 from the outside of the refrigerator door 13, so that the refrigerator door 13 is exposed to the outside. It can be prevented.

The refrigerator (10) is connected to the cabinet door (2) or the refrigerator door (13) and further includes a plurality of hinge assemblies (30, 31) that allow the cabinet door (2) and the refrigerator door (13) to rotate together. It can be included.

One side of the plurality of hinge assemblies 30 and 31 may be connected to the cabinet door 2 or the refrigerator door 13, and the other side may be connected to the cabinet 11.

Each of the plurality of hinge assemblies 30 and 31 may be a multi-joint hinge assembly including a plurality of links. The plurality of hinge assemblies 30 and 31 may be made of metal.

Each of the plurality of hinge assemblies 30 and 31 includes a plurality of hinges, and each hinge may include a hinge axis for rotation of the hinge. As an example, the first hinge may include a first hinge axis, and the second hinge may include a second hinge axis.

The plurality of hinge assemblies 30 and 31 include a hinge assembly 30 (or “second hinge assembly”) and a lower hinge assembly 31 (or “first hinge assembly”). It can be included.

The refrigerator 10 is not limited, but is a door opening device for pushing the upper hinge assembly 30 to operate the upper hinge assembly 30 so that the cabinet door 2 and the refrigerator door 13 rotate together. (20) may be further included.

The door opening device 20 may be installed on the upper surface of the cabinet 11, for example, to operate the upper hinge assembly 30. Here, the door opening device 20 may be located behind the upper hinge assembly 30 when the refrigerator door 13 closes the storage compartment 12.

The refrigerator 10 may further include a sensing mechanism 40 for detecting an input of a door opening command.

The sensing mechanism 40 can detect the input of a door opening command by receiving and detecting the force (push force) with which the user pushes the cabinet door 2. Here, the sensing mechanism 40 may be installed in the cabinet 11 in order to detect the push force of the cabinet door 2.

For example, a cabinet bracket 52 may be installed in the cabinet 11, and a sensing mechanism 40 may be installed in the cabinet bracket 52. The sensing mechanism 40 may receive the push force of the cabinet door 2 from the lower hinge assembly 31. That is, when the furniture cabinet door 2 is pushed, the pushing force is transmitted to the lower hinge assembly 31, so that the lower hinge assembly 31 can press the sensing mechanism 40.

To this end, the cabinet bracket 52 may be installed on the lower surface of the cabinet 11 and may be located behind the lower hinge assembly 31. Additionally, the sensing mechanism 40 may be positioned between the cabinet bracket 52 and the lower hinge assembly 31. Accordingly, even if the refrigerator door 13 is opened, the sensing mechanism 40 can be prevented from being exposed to the outside.

One side of the lower hinge assembly 31 may be connected to the lower side of the cabinet 11, and the other side may be connected to the door bracket 51 coupled to the refrigerator door 13.

Since the lower hinge assembly 31 is installed on the door bracket 51 and the sensing mechanism 40 receives the push force of the cabinet door 2 from the lower hinge assembly 31, the insulation of the refrigerator door 13 is maintained. Even if a part of the outer case of the refrigerator door 13 is deformed during the foaming process, the sensing mechanism 40 can detect the push force of the cabinet door 2.

For example, the back of the refrigerator door 13 is spaced a certain distance from the front of the cabinet 11 by a gasket. Also, even if the refrigerator door 13 is pushed, the back of the refrigerator door 13 and the front of the cabinet 11 are separated by the minimum distance due to the gasket.

If the refrigerator door 13 is configured to directly pressurize the sensing mechanism 40, the distance between the back of the refrigerator door 13 and the sensing mechanism 40 may be designed to be smaller than the minimum distance. However, the back of the refrigerator door 13 may be deformed during the foaming process for insulation, thereby increasing the distance between the back of the refrigerator door 13 and the front of the cabinet 11.

In this case, even if the cabinet door 2 is pushed, the distance between the back of the refrigerator door 13 and the sensing mechanism 40 becomes greater than the minimum distance, and the refrigerator door 13 presses the sensing mechanism 40. Problems arise that prevent you from doing so.

However, in this embodiment, after the foaming of the refrigerator door 13 is completed, the lower hinge assembly 31 is installed on the door bracket 51 installed on the lower side of the refrigerator door 13, and the lower hinge assembly 31 is made of metal. ) pressurizes the sensing mechanism 40. Accordingly, even if a part of the refrigerator door 13 is deformed, it is possible to detect the input of a door opening command.

Alternatively, it is also possible that the door opening device 20 presses the lower hinge assembly 31 and the sensing mechanism 40 is pressed by the upper hinge assembly 30 that receives the push force of the cabinet door 2. .

In any case, the door opening device 20 and the sensing mechanism 40 may be located on opposite sides of the cabinet 11.

According to this embodiment, the door opening command can be input by pushing the furniture cabinet door 2, so the door opening command can be easily issued using not only the hand but also various parts or objects held by the user while standing in front of the refrigerator. It becomes possible to input .

In addition, since a door opening command can be input by pushing the cabinet door (2), even in situations where both hands are not free, such as when the user is holding an object with both hands, the user can use parts such as arms and body. It is possible to easily input a door opening command by pushing the cabinet door.

When the detection mechanism 40 detects that a door opening command is input, the refrigerator door 13 is automatically opened by driving the door opening device 20. Accordingly, the force required by the user to open the refrigerator door 13 is significantly reduced or no force is required.

Meanwhile, in Figure 1, the refrigerator 10 is used in a built-in state, but even when the refrigerator 10 is used in a non-built-in state, the door opening device 20, the hinge assembly 30 and the present invention are used. It should be noted that the technology for the sensing mechanism 40 can be applied as is. That is, the user can input a door opening command by directly pushing the refrigerator door 13.

Hereinafter, the sensing mechanism 40 will be described in detail.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a sensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a sensing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along A-A of Figure 5.

Referring to Figures 4 to 7, the sensing mechanism 40 according to an embodiment of the present invention is a case 410, a supporter 420 mounted on the case 410, and a supporter 420. It may include a supported first detection unit 430 and a cover 440 that is coupled to the case 410 and covers the first detection unit 430.

The case 410 may be fastened to the cabinet bracket 52 by, for example, a fastening member (S). Case 410 may include a body 411 and a plurality of coupling portions 414 extending from the body 411.

For example, the body 411 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open front surface, and two coupling portions 414 may extend from the body 411. The two coupling portions 414 may extend from the body 411 in a direction away from each other. Additionally, the case 410 can be fastened to the cabinet bracket 52 with the two coupling portions 414 arranged in the vertical direction.

A fastening boss 415 for fastening the fastening member S may be formed in each coupling portion 414. Each fastening boss 415 is in contact with the front of the cabinet bracket 52, and the fastening member S can be fastened to each fastening boss 415 by penetrating the cabinet bracket 52 from the rear of the cabinet bracket 52. there is.

The body 411 may be provided with a supporter seating portion 412 on which the supporter 420 is seated. The supporter seating portion 412 may include ribs protruding from the body 411. The ribs form a space in which the supporter 420 is accommodated. The ribs may protrude from the body 411 in a direction away from the cabinet bracket 52.

Additionally, a slot 417 may be formed in the body 411 through which a portion of the first sensing unit 430 supported by the supporter 420 passes. The first detection unit 430 that passes through the slot 417 may be provided with a wire that can be connected to the control unit 15, which will be described later.

The supporter 420 may be formed of an elastic material that is elastically deformed by external force. As an example, the supporter 420 may be made of a rubber material.

The supporter 420 may include a base 421 seated on the supporter seating portion 412, and a plurality of support ribs 422 protruding from the base 421.

The plurality of support ribs 422 may be arranged to be spaced apart. As an example, a plurality of support ribs 422 may protrude from both ends of the base 421.

With the base 421 seated on the supporter seating portion 412, the plurality of support ribs 422 may extend in a direction away from the cabinet bracket 52. And with the base seated on the supporter seating portion 412, the plurality of support ribs 422 may be arranged to be spaced apart vertically.

In a state in which the supporter 420 is seated on the supporter seating portion 412, the protruding length of the supporter seating portion 412 from the body 411 is shorter than the distance from the body 411 to the ends of the plurality of support ribs 422. is formed The reason is to prevent the first sensing part 430 from directly contacting the supporter seating part 412 when the first sensing part 430 supported by the supporter 420 is pressed.

So that the plurality of support ribs 422 can support the first sensing unit 430, the spacing between the plurality of support ribs 422 may be smaller than the minimum length of the first sensing unit 430.

The first sensing unit 430 is in contact with the supporter 420 and can output a signal (eg, voltage) in response to the magnitude of force (push force) applied from the outside.

The first detection unit 430 may include a sensor PCB (sensor PCB) 431. The sensor PCB 431 may be arranged to contact the plurality of support ribs 422 of the supporter 420.

For example, the cover 440 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open rear side. The cover 440 may include a hook 442 for being coupled to the case 410.

The case 410 may include a hook coupling slot (413) to which the hook 442 is coupled. The cover 440 covers the first sensing unit 430 while the hook 442 of the cover 440 is coupled to the hook coupling slot 413.

Accordingly, the first detection unit 430 can be prevented from being exposed to the outside by the cover 440.

The cover 440 may be provided with a contact protrusion 444 that contacts the sensor PCB 431 while the cover 440 is coupled to the case 410. The contact protrusion 444 may protrude from the cover 440 toward the sensor PCB 431, and may correspond to the middle portion of the area between the plurality of support ribs 422 while in contact with the sensor PCB 431. can be located

The contact protrusion 444 allows the force pushing the cabinet door 2 to be concentrated toward the contact protrusion 444 and effectively transmitted to the sensor PCB 431.

When the cover 440 is coupled to the case 410, the cover 440 may protrude from the case 410 toward the lower hinge assembly 31. This is to maintain the cover 440 in contact with the lower hinge assembly 31.

For example, when the refrigerator door 13 is closed, the cover 440 not only contacts the lower hinge assembly 31 but also may be pressed by the lower hinge assembly 31 . In addition, the horizontal distance between the plurality of support ribs 422 and the contact protrusion 444 in the absence of the sensor PCB 431 is formed to be smaller than the thickness of the sensor PCB 431.

Accordingly, when the cover 440 is coupled to the case 410 while the sensor PCB 431 is in contact with the plurality of support ribs 422, the contact protrusion 444 presses the sensor PCB 431. Also, the sensor PCB 431 presses the plurality of support ribs 422, so that the plurality of support ribs 422 may be elastically deformed. When the plurality of support ribs 422 are elastically deformed, the sensor PCB 431 and the cover 440 are elastically supported by the plurality of support ribs 422.

According to this structure, the cover 440 and the lower hinge assembly 31 can be maintained in contact. That is, since the cover 440 is present in a protruding state from the case 410 and is elastically supported by a plurality of support ribs 422, the refrigerator door 13 coupled with the cabinet door 2 is connected to the cabinet 11. ) Even if an assembly error occurs in the process of connecting to the cover 440, the cover 440 can be maintained in contact with the lower hinge assembly 31.

In addition, even if the cover 440 is pressed while the lower hinge assembly 31 is in contact with the cover 440, the plurality of support ribs 422 may be elastically deformed, so the cover 440 or the sensor PCB 431 may be elastically deformed. Damage due to the pressing force of the upper hinge assembly 31 can be prevented.

Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a door opening device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 8, the door opening device 20 may include a driving unit and a door opening unit 240 that operates by receiving power from the driving unit.

The door opening part 240 moves by receiving the driving force of the driving part and pushes the upper hinge assembly 30.

The door opening device 20 may further include a frame 200 for installing the driving unit and the door opening unit 240.

The frame 200 may include a lower frame 220 installed on the upper surface of the cabinet 11 and an upper frame 210 coupled to the lower frame 220.

The driving unit 250 and the door opening 240 may be seated on the lower frame 220, and the upper frame 210 may cover the upper side of the driving unit and the door opening 240.

The driving unit 250 may include a driving motor 251 and a power transmission unit 252 for transmitting power of the driving motor 251 to the door opening 240.

The driving motor 251 may be, for example, a motor capable of rotating in both directions. The drive motor 251 may be mounted on the lower frame 220 from below to above the lower frame 220. The power transmission unit 252 may be mounted on the lower frame 220 from above to below the lower frame 220.

The power transmission unit 252 may include a plurality of gears 253. The plurality of gears 253 are reduction gears that reduce the rotational speed of the drive motor 251 and transmit force for driving the door opening 240 to the door opening 240.

The plurality of gears 253 may include a connection gear 255 directly connected to the door opening 240.

The door opening device 20 may include a PCB (PCB) 290 for controlling the drive motor 251. Although not limited, the PCB 290 may be installed on the lower frame 220.

Since the drive motor 251 is mounted on the lower frame 220 from below to above the lower frame 220, the PCB 290 is mounted on the lower frame 220 for easy connection between the PCB 290 and the drive motor 251. ) can be installed on the bottom of the. A hall sensor 292 used to detect the position of the door opening 240 may be installed in the PCB 290.

The hall sensor 292 can detect the position of the door opening 240 located within the frame 200. To this end, the Hall sensor 292 may be located within the frame 200 by penetrating the lower side of the lower frame 220.

The lower frame 220 may include a slot 221 through which a portion of the door opening 240 passes. A portion of the door opening 240 is located within the frame 200, and the other portion protrudes out of the frame 20 through the slot 221.

In the present invention, it is assumed that the direction in which the door opening 240 moves to open the refrigerator door 13 is the front-to-back direction, and the direction perpendicular to the front-back direction is the left-right direction.

The upper frame 210 may be coupled to the lower frame 220 and cover the power transmission unit 252 and the door opening 240 mounted on the lower frame 220.

The door opening unit 240 may include a push member 241 that receives power from the driving unit 250 and moves in the forward and backward directions.

The push member 241 may further include a roller 245. A roller 245 may be rotatably connected to the front portion of the push member 241.

A portion of the roller 245 may be positioned to protrude forward from the front end 243a of the push member 241 to prevent the push member 241 from directly contacting the upper hinge assembly 30.

Therefore, according to the present invention, the roller 245 contacts the upper hinge assembly 30 while the door opening 240 moves to open the door, so when the push member directly contacts the hinge assembly 30 Compared to , friction noise can be reduced and damage to the door opening 240 can be prevented.

The front end of the push member 241 is designed to prevent the front end 243a of the push member 241 from directly contacting the upper hinge assembly 30 while the door opening 240 pushes the upper hinge assembly 30. (243a) can be rounded.

Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of an upper hinge assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 9 , since the structures of the upper hinge assembly 30 and the lower hinge assembly 31 in this embodiment are the same, only the structure of the upper hinge assembly 30 will be described below.

The upper hinge assembly 30 includes a first hinge frame 310 installed on the cabinet 11, a second hinge frame 320 fixed to the furniture cabinet door 2 or the refrigerator door 13, and a first hinge frame ( 310), and may include a link unit (330) connected to the second hinge frame 320.

The second hinge frame 320 includes, for example, a door fixing part 322 fixed to the refrigerator door 13, a link connecting part 324 located on the upper side of the door fixing part 322 and to which the link unit 330 is connected. It can be included.

The door opening unit 240 pushes the link unit 330 to open the refrigerator door 13.

The link unit 330 receives a pushing force from the door opening 240 and operates so that the refrigerator door 13 rotates about the center of rotation, thereby opening the storage compartment 12 and moving the center of rotation in the horizontal direction. It may include a plurality of links 332, 340, 350, and 360.

The link unit 330 may include a first link 332 connected to the first hinge frame 310 by a first hinge 314.

The link unit 330 may further include a second link 340 connected to the first link 332 at a position spaced apart from the first hinge 314 . The second link 340 may be rotatably connected to the first link 332 by a second hinge 342. At this time, a plurality of members of the second link 340 may be a multi-joint link rotatably connected. In this case, the second hinge 342 may be formed on one of the plurality of members, and the sixth hinge 344 may be formed on another member among the plurality of members.

The link unit 330 may further include a third link 350 rotatably connected to the first link 332 in an area between the first hinge 314 and the second hinge 342. The third link 350 may be rotatably connected to the first link 332 by a third hinge 352.

The link unit 330 may further include a fourth link 360 rotatably connected to the third link 350 and the first hinge frame 310.

The fourth link 360 may be rotatably connected to the third link 350 by the fourth hinge 362, and may be rotatably connected to the first hinge frame 310 by the fifth hinge 364. there is.

At this time, the fourth hinge 362 is located closer to the refrigerator door than the first white hinge 314.

Additionally, the second link 340 may be rotatably connected to the second hinge frame 320 by a sixth hinge 344, and the third link 350 may be connected to the second hinge by a seventh hinge 354. It may be rotatably connected to the frame 320.

The distance between the sixth hinge 344 and the seventh hinge 354 is shorter than the distance between the third hinge 352 and the second hinge 342. And the length of the fourth link 360 is shorter than the length of the first link 332.

Figure 10 is a block diagram of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, the control unit 15 controlling the drive motor 251 may mean that the control unit 15 transmits a control signal to the PCB 292 and the PCB 292 controls the drive motor 251. there is.

Referring to FIG. 10, the refrigerator 10 of this embodiment includes a first detection unit 430 that outputs an analog detection signal (eg, voltage) in response to the magnitude of force (push force) applied from the outside, and a first detection unit 430 that outputs an analog detection signal (eg, voltage) 1 It includes a control unit 15 that determines whether to open the door according to a detection signal input from the detection unit 430, generates a door opening command signal, and operates the drive motor 251 to open the door.

The first detection unit 430 includes a sensor PCB 431 that contacts the supporter 420 and outputs an analog detection signal in response to the amount of force (push force) applied from the outside. As described above, the sensor PCB 431 is supported by the supporter 420 and arranged to contact the plurality of support ribs 422, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the magnitude of the force (push force) applied from the outside. do.

The control unit 15 generates a door opening command signal according to the input period of the detection signal input from the sensor PCB 431 and the magnitude of the voltage of the detection signal. Then, the door opening command signal is transmitted as the control signal of the driving motor 251.

Specifically, the control unit 15 compares the voltage magnitude of the detection signal input from the sensor PCB 431 with a preset reference voltage, and determines the period in which the voltage magnitude of the detection signal is input greater than the reference voltage to the preset first reference voltage. Additional comparisons are made with time.

Accordingly, the control unit 15 generates a door opening command signal when the voltage magnitude of the detection signal is greater than the reference voltage and the input period is longer or greater than the preset first reference time. And the door opening command signal is transmitted as a control signal of the driving motor 251.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a partial configuration of the control unit shown in FIG. 10.

Referring to FIG. 11 , the control unit 15 includes a detection voltage input unit 151, a comparison unit 153, and an open control determination unit 154.

The detection voltage input unit 151 receives a detection signal (V_430) from the sensor PCB 431 of the first detection unit 430. When the control unit 15 is configured as a one-chip type, the detection voltage input unit 151 can be one signal input terminal.

The comparison unit 153 compares the voltage magnitude of the detection signal (V_430) input from the sensor PCB 431 with the reference voltage (V_th) input from the reference voltage input unit 152. Then, a pulse width modulation signal (PWM) is output so that the voltage level of the detection signal (V_430) corresponds to the input period when the voltage level is greater than the reference voltage (V_th). To this end, the comparison unit 153 may be designed with at least one logic gate.

The open control determination unit 154 compares the period during which the pulse width modulation signal (PWM) is input with a preset first reference time (Ttf). And, if the pulse width modulation signal (PWM) input period is greater than or longer than the first reference time (Ttf), a door opening command signal (OPC) is generated and transmitted as a control signal of the driving motor 251. To this end, the open control determination unit 154 may also be designed with at least one logic gate. And the door opening command signal (OPC) output from the open control determination unit 154 is transmitted as a control signal of the drive motor 251 configured in the door opening device 20.

The refrigerator 10 may further include a second detection unit 50 to detect the opening of the refrigerator door 13. The second detection unit 50 may be provided in the cabinet 11, for example, and may be a switch that is pressed by the refrigerator door 13 when the refrigerator door 13 is closed.

The second detection unit 50 may output a low signal, for example, when the refrigerator door 13 is closed, and output a high signal, for example, when the refrigerator door 13 is open, and vice versa. possible.

Figure 12 is a flowchart for explaining a method of controlling a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 11 , when the refrigerator 10 is turned on, the refrigerator 10 waits for an input of a door open command (S1).

For example, while the refrigerator door 13 is closed, the refrigerator 10 may wait for an input of a door opening command, and in this case, a low signal may be output from the second detection unit 50.

While waiting for the door opening command, the control unit 15 can determine whether the door opening command has been input (S2).

As an example, the user may push the cabinet door 2 to open the refrigerator door 13. When the user pushes the cabinet door 2, the force pushing the cabinet door 2 (push force) is transmitted by the refrigerator door 13 to the sensing mechanism 40 through the lower hinge assembly 31. .

As an example, the cover 440 is pressed by the push force transmitted by the lower hinge assembly 31, and the contact protrusion 444 of the cover 440 presses the sensor PCB 431, An analog detection signal is output from .

And, the control unit 15 counts the period in which the voltage magnitude of the detection signal input from the first detection unit 430 is input greater than the reference voltage, and if the counted period is longer or greater than the preset first reference time, the control unit 15 It can be determined that an open command has been entered.

The reason is that the user does not push the cabinet door (2) with the intention of opening the door, but the user temporarily bumps into the cabinet door (2) or an object other than the user collides with the cabinet door (2). This is to prevent the refrigerator door 13 from opening when an external force is accidentally applied to the cabinet door 2.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the control unit 15 issues a door opening command only when the voltage of the detection signal from the first detection unit 430 is inputted above a preset reference voltage, and the input period is outputted over the first reference time. It is judged that this has been entered. At this time, the first reference time may be changed and, although not limited, may be 0.3 seconds or more.

As a result of the determination in step S2, if it is determined that a door opening command has been input, the control unit 15 may determine whether the conditions for opening the refrigerator door 13 are satisfied (S3).

In this embodiment, when the opening condition of the refrigerator door 13 is satisfied, the second detection unit 50 detects that the refrigerator door 13 is closed for more than the second reference time TR. At this time, the second reference time is set longer than the first reference time, and is not limited, but may be set to 2 seconds or more. In this embodiment, the second reference time (TR) may also be referred to as a closing reference time.

Figure 13 is a diagram for explaining the state of the refrigerator door according to signal recognition from the first and second detectors. And, Figure 14 is a waveform diagram for explaining the process for determining the detection signal of the first detection unit as an open signal.

First, referring to FIG. 13, when the refrigerator door 13 is closed, a signal to notify that the refrigerator door 13 is closed is output from the second detection unit 50 (low signal).

In this state, if a signal of a certain size or more is output from the first detection unit 430 for more than the first reference time and it is determined that a door opening command has been input, the door opening device 20 is activated to open the refrigerator door 13. It can work.

On the other hand, when the refrigerator door 13 is opened by the door opening device 20 or the user directly opens the refrigerator door 13, the refrigerator door 13 is opened by the second detection unit 50. A signal to notify is output (high signal).

In this state, the refrigerator door 13 may be closed manually by the user or may be closed by its own weight. When the refrigerator door 13 is closed, the second detection unit 430 outputs a signal to notify that the refrigerator door 13 is closed.

In this embodiment, the detection mechanism 40 may contact the lower hinge assembly 31 while the refrigerator door 13 closes the storage compartment 12, so the detection mechanism 40 may contact the lower hinge assembly 31 in the process of closing the refrigerator door 13. ), a detection signal (V_430) of a certain size or more may be output from the first detection unit 430 for more than a first reference time.

As shown in FIG. 14, the control unit 15 compares the voltage magnitude of the detection signal (V_430) input from the sensor PCB 431 with the reference voltage (V_th) input from the reference voltage input unit 152. And according to the comparison result, the period during which the voltage magnitude of the detection signal (V_430) is input to be greater than the reference voltage (V_th) is compared with a preset first reference time (Ttf). If the voltage magnitude of the detection signal (V_430) is greater than the reference voltage (V_th) and the input period is greater than or longer than the first reference time (Ttf), a door opening command signal (OPC) is generated and used as a control signal of the driving motor 251. send.

On the other hand, the signal output from the first detection unit 430 in the process of closing the refrigerator door 13 is a signal output temporarily, and the time for which a signal of a certain size or more is output from the first detection unit 430 is the second standard. It is smaller than time (TR).

In this embodiment, even if it is determined that a door opening command has been input due to the closing force of the refrigerator door 13 in the process of closing the refrigerator door 13, the door opening device 20 is operated only when the door opening condition is satisfied.

Therefore, in the process of closing the refrigerator door 13, the door opening device 20 is unintentionally operated, thereby preventing the refrigerator door 13 from opening again.

Meanwhile, if it is determined in step S3 that the door opening condition is satisfied, the control unit 15 controls the drive motor 251 so that the drive motor 251 rotates in the first direction (S4).

15 to 17 are views showing the state of the hinge assembly when the refrigerator door is opened by the door opening device.

Referring to FIGS. 15 to 17 , when the drive motor 251 rotates in the first direction, the connection gear 255 may rotate clockwise with respect to FIG. 8 . Then, the push member 241, which receives the rotational force from the connecting gear 255, pushes the first link 332. That is, the push member 241 pushes the first link 332 while moving forward from the initial position.

Specifically, the push member 241 pushes the area between the third hinge 352 and the second hinge 342 on the first link 332. Then, based on FIG. 14, the first link 332 is rotated clockwise with the first hinge 314 as the center of rotation. Additionally, the fourth link 360 rotates clockwise with the fifth hinge 364 as the center of rotation.

Due to the clockwise rotation of the first link 332 and the fourth link 360, the refrigerator door 13 rotates away from the cabinet 11. At this time, since the length of the fourth link 360 is shorter than the length of the first link 332, when the first link 332 rotates, the fourth link 360 rotates more than the rotation angle of the first link 332. The angle is large. Therefore, the fourth link 360 serves to amplify the rotation angle when the refrigerator door 13 is rotated by the first link 332.

Accordingly, the refrigerator door 13 may actually be rotated at an angle greater than the rotation angle of the first link 332.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the movement trajectory of a line sequentially connecting the first hinge, third hinge, seventh hinge, and sixth hinge in the hinge assembly of FIGS. 15 to 17, and FIG. 19 shows a view showing the refrigerator door after opening is completed. This is a drawing showing the condition.

Referring to FIG. 18, the virtual connection line L connecting the sixth hinge 344 and the seventh hinge 354 is located on the refrigerator door 13 and moves together with the refrigerator door 13.

As shown in Figure 18, as the moving distance of the push member 241 increases, the connection line L moves away from the cabinet 11 and rotates at the same time until it forms a predetermined angle. The predetermined angle is the same as the opening angle of the refrigerator door 13.

At this time, the connection line (L) rotates and moves horizontally in a direction away from the cabinet 11.

When the refrigerator door 13 is closed, the sixth hinge 344 and the seventh hinge 354 are positioned on a horizontal line or plane parallel to the front of the cabinet 11 and passing through the center of the fifth hinge 364. It can be located closer to the cabinet than the horizon or plane. For example, when the refrigerator door 13 is closed, the fifth hinge 364, sixth hinge 344, and seventh hinge 354 are located on a common plane parallel to the front of the cabinet 11, or The sixth hinge 344 and the seventh hinge 354 may be located ahead of the fifth hinge 364.

On the other hand, when the refrigerator door 13 is opened, the sixth hinge 344 and the seventh hinge 354 are positioned farther from the cabinet 11 than the horizontal line passing through the center of the fifth hinge 354. For example, the sixth hinge 344 and the seventh hinge 354 are positioned ahead of the horizontal line passing through the center of the fifth hinge 364.

In the present invention, the opening angle of the refrigerator door 13 may be set differently depending on the size of the refrigerator 10. However, regardless of the size of the refrigerator 10, the opening angle must be set so that the maximum distance D1 between the back of the refrigerator door 13 and the front of the cabinet 11 is 120 mm or more when the refrigerator door 13 is open. You can.

The control unit 15 may determine whether door opening is completed during the first direction rotation of the drive motor 251 (S5). As an example, the control unit 15 may determine whether the push member 241 has reached the door opening position.

As shown in FIG. 19, the position of the push member 241 when the refrigerator door 13 is completely opened is the door opening position.

If it is determined in step S5 that opening of the door has been completed, the control unit 15 stops the driving motor 251 (S6).

Meanwhile, the control unit 15 determines whether a certain amount of time has elapsed from the time the door opening is completed and the driving motor 251 is stopped (S7).

As a result of the determination in step S7, if it is determined that a certain period of time has elapsed from the point where the driving motor 251 is stopped, the control unit 15 moves the driving motor 251 in the first direction in order to return the push member 241 to the initial position. It is rotated in the second direction, which is the opposite direction (S8).

When the drive motor 251 is immediately rotated in the second direction while the push member 241 reaches the door opening position, the load of the refrigerator door 13 itself and the close contact between the refrigerator door 13 and the cabinet 11 are reduced. At least one of the magnetic force of the magnet provided in the gasket for the refrigerator door 13 and the closing force generated by the automatic closing mechanism (not shown) provided in the hinge assemblies 30 and 31 of the refrigerator door 13 to automatically close the refrigerator door. There is a problem in that the refrigerator door 13 closes immediately.

However, as in the present invention, if the motor 251 is rotated in the second direction after a certain period of time has elapsed while the driving motor 251 is stopped, the refrigerator door 13 can remain open for a certain period of time. Therefore, the user can additionally rotate the refrigerator door 13 manually.

While the driving motor 251 rotates in the second direction, the control unit 15 determines whether the push member 241 has reached the initial position (S9).

When the control unit 15 determines that the push member 241 has returned to its initial position, it stops the driving motor 251 (S10).

In the above embodiment, it is also possible to prevent the door opening device from operating during the process of closing the refrigerator door without using the second detection unit 50.

In this case, the time at which a signal of a certain size or greater is output from the first detection unit 430 is longer than the reference time, but the reference time may be set to be the same as or similar to the second reference time.

However, in this case, the time for which the user applies pushing force may be somewhat longer than when using the second sensing unit 50.

Alternatively, if the time for which a signal of a certain size or more is output from the first detection unit 430 is longer than a reference time (same or similar to the second reference time), it is determined that a door opening command has been input, and in this state, If the door is determined to be closed by the second detection unit 50, it may be determined that the door opening condition is satisfied.

In the above embodiment, the door opening device was described as pushing the hinge assembly, for example, the upper hinge assembly. However, it was revealed that the door opening device could also directly push the refrigerator door 13 or the cabinet door 2. put it

As described above, the refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention supports a user to easily input a door opening command using a switch touch method, and can automatically open the door through the switch touch function.

In particular, by allowing the door opening command to be input by pushing the cabinet door or the refrigerator door, the user can easily input the door opening command with not only his or her hands but also various parts or objects held by the user while standing in front of the refrigerator. It becomes possible.

In addition, the refrigerator according to the present invention generates a door opening command according to the input period of the detection signal generated when the switch is touched and the magnitude of the voltage of the detection signal, thereby generating the door opening command with a simple and simplified circuit or chip structure. can be created. Accordingly, the effect of reducing the manufacturing process and cost of components used to open the refrigerator door can be expected.

The above-described present invention may be subject to various substitutions, modifications, and changes without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. It is not limited by .

10: Refrigerator
11: cabinet
13: Refrigerator door
15: control unit
20: Door opening device
30: Upper hinge assembly
31: Lower hinge assembly
40: sensing mechanism
410: case
420: Supporter
430: first detection unit
440: cover
50: second detection unit

Claims (24)

refrigerator door that opens and closes the storage compartment of the cabinet;
a detection mechanism including a first detection unit that receives a push force pressing the refrigerator door and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the push force;
a door opening device including a push member that operates to open the refrigerator door;
a control unit that determines whether to open the door according to the detection signal output from the first detection unit, generates a door opening command signal, and controls the door opening device;
A door bracket coupled to the refrigerator door;
a first hinge assembly having one side connected to one side of the cabinet and the other side connected to the door bracket; and
A cabinet bracket installed on one side of the cabinet and located behind the first hinge assembly,
The sensing mechanism is located between the first hinge assembly and the cabinet bracket.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 1,
The first detection unit
It includes a sensor PCB that outputs the detection signal as an analog signal in response to the size of the push force,
The control unit compares a period in which the voltage magnitude of the detection signal input from the first detector is greater than the preset reference voltage with a preset first reference time, and inputs the voltage magnitude of the detection signal greater than the reference voltage. Generating the door opening command signal when the specified period is output longer than the first reference time,
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 2,
Further comprising a second detection unit for detecting whether the refrigerator door is opened,
The control unit
In a state in which it is determined that the door opening command signal is input, if it is determined that the door opening condition is satisfied based on the information detected by the second detection unit, operating the door opening device to open the refrigerator door.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 3,
When the second detection unit detects that the refrigerator door is closed for more than a second reference time, the door opening condition is satisfied.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 4,
The second reference time is set longer than the first reference time.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 1,
The control unit
a detection voltage input unit that receives a detection signal from the sensor PCB of the first detection unit;
A comparison unit that compares the voltage level of the detection signal input from the sensor PCB with the reference voltage input from the reference voltage input unit and outputs a pulse width modulation signal to correspond to the period in which the voltage level of the detection signal is input greater than the reference voltage. ;
Comprising an opening control determination unit that compares the period during which the pulse width modulation signal is input with a preset first reference time, generates a door opening command signal according to the comparison result, and transmits it as a control signal of the driving motor,
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 1,
Further comprising a plurality of hinge assemblies for connecting the refrigerator door to the cabinet,
When the door opening device operates to open the refrigerator door, the push member pushes one of the plurality of hinge assemblies.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 1,
Further comprising a plurality of hinge assemblies for connecting the refrigerator door to the cabinet,
When the refrigerator door is closed, the sensing mechanism is in contact with any one of a plurality of hinge assemblies.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.

According to claim 1,
When the refrigerator door is pressed by the push force, the push force is transmitted to the first hinge assembly and the first hinge assembly presses the sensing mechanism.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 1,
The door opening device is
drive motor;
a power transmission unit including a plurality of gears and transmitting power of the drive motor; and
Comprising the push member moving in the forward and backward direction by power transmitted from the power transmission unit.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 10,
A roller in contact with the second hinge assembly is disposed at one end of the push member.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
refrigerator door that opens and closes the storage compartment of the cabinet;
a detection mechanism including a first detection unit that receives a push force pressing the refrigerator door and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the push force;
a door opening device including a push member that operates to open the refrigerator door; and
A control unit that determines whether to open the door according to the detection signal output from the first detection unit, generates a door opening command signal, and controls the door opening device,
The sensing mechanism is
case;
A supporter seated within the case;
The first sensing unit supported by the supporter; and
It is coupled to the case and includes a cover that covers the first sensing unit.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 12,
The above case is
body;
a plurality of coupling parts extending from the body;
a supporter seating portion on which the supporter is seated; and
Comprising a slot through which a portion of the first detection unit passes
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 12,
A contact protrusion protruding in a direction toward the sensing mechanism is formed on the cover,
The contact protrusion is in contact with the sensing mechanism when the cover is coupled to the case.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 13,
The above supporters are
A base mounted on the supporter seating portion; and
It includes a plurality of support ribs protruding from the base,
The first sensing unit is elastically supported by the plurality of support ribs.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 12,
The door opening device is
drive motor;
a power transmission unit including a plurality of gears and transmitting power of the drive motor; and
Comprising the push member moving in the forward and backward direction by power transmitted from the power transmission unit.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 12,
A roller in contact with the second hinge assembly is disposed at one end of the push member.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 12,
The first detection unit
It includes a sensor PCB that outputs the detection signal as an analog signal in response to the size of the push force,
The control unit compares a period in which the voltage magnitude of the detection signal input from the first detector is greater than the preset reference voltage with a preset first reference time, and inputs the voltage magnitude of the detection signal greater than the reference voltage. Generating the door opening command signal when the specified period is output longer than the first reference time,
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 18,
Further comprising a second detection unit for detecting whether the refrigerator door is opened,
The control unit
In a state in which it is determined that the door opening command signal is input, if it is determined that the door opening condition is satisfied based on the information detected by the second detection unit, operating the door opening device to open the refrigerator door.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 19,
When the second detection unit detects that the refrigerator door is closed for more than a second reference time, the door opening condition is satisfied.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 20,
The second reference time is set longer than the first reference time.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 12,
The control unit
a detection voltage input unit that receives a detection signal from the sensor PCB of the first detection unit;
A comparison unit that compares the voltage level of the detection signal input from the sensor PCB with the reference voltage input from the reference voltage input unit and outputs a pulse width modulation signal to correspond to the period in which the voltage level of the detection signal is input greater than the reference voltage. ;
Comprising an opening control determination unit that compares the period during which the pulse width modulation signal is input with a preset first reference time, generates a door opening command signal according to the comparison result, and transmits it as a control signal of the driving motor,
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 12,
Further comprising a plurality of hinge assemblies for connecting the refrigerator door to the cabinet,
When the door opening device operates to open the refrigerator door, the push member pushes one of the plurality of hinge assemblies.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.
According to claim 12,
Further comprising a plurality of hinge assemblies for connecting the refrigerator door to the cabinet,
When the refrigerator door is closed, the sensing mechanism is in contact with any one of a plurality of hinge assemblies.
A refrigerator with automatic door opening.