KR102840552B1 - Home appliance and Refirgerator - Google Patents

Abstract

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that at least a portion of the refrigerator door can be selectively made transparent by a user's operation, thereby allowing the interior of the refrigerator to be seen while the refrigerator door is closed.

Description

Home appliances and refrigerators

The present invention relates to a refrigerator.

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

Recent refrigerators are becoming larger and more multifunctional in line with the changing eating habits and the trend toward higher quality products. Refrigerators equipped with various structures and convenient devices are being released to ensure user convenience and efficient use of internal space.

The storage space of a refrigerator can be opened and closed by a door. Refrigerators can be classified into various types depending on the arrangement of the storage space and the structure of the door that opens and closes the storage space.

Additionally, the refrigerator door may be provided with a separate storage space accessible from the outside. This storage space allows access to the storage space by opening a portion of the auxiliary door or the home bar door without having to open the entire refrigerator door.

Therefore, frequently used food items can be stored in the separate storage space provided in the refrigerator door. Furthermore, since the entire refrigerator door does not need to be opened for food storage, there is the advantage of minimizing the leakage of cold air from the interior to the outside.

However, even with this design, the fundamental problem is that you can't check the contents of the refrigerator without opening the door. In other words, to check whether the desired food is stored within the internal compartment or in a separate storage space provided on the door, you must open the door. Furthermore, if the desired food is not found upon opening the auxiliary door or the home bar, you must open the main door again, which can lead to unnecessary leakage of cold air.

To address this issue, a portion of the front of the refrigerator door could be made of a transparent material. However, this could compromise internal insulation. Furthermore, if the refrigerator's interior is visible even when not in use, food remains exposed, creating a very unsightly appearance.

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which at least a portion of the refrigerator door can be selectively made transparent by a user's operation, thereby allowing the interior of the refrigerator to be viewed while the refrigerator door is closed.

An embodiment of the present invention provides a refrigerator in which at least a portion of the front of the refrigerator door is made of half glass, and an interior lighting unit is turned on and off by a user's operation when the refrigerator door is closed, thereby selectively allowing the interior of the refrigerator to be viewed.

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which the refrigerator door is selectively made transparent by a knock operation to enable the interior to be visualized.

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator having a structure that is provided on a refrigerator door and allows for a high-intensity view of the inside of the refrigerator even when the refrigerator door is closed, while at the same time providing insulation.

An embodiment of the present invention provides a refrigerator in which the interior of the refrigerator can be seen through when the lighting unit is turned on by a user's operation, and the exterior of the refrigerator door is formed like a mirror when the lighting unit is turned off.

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator in which a part of a refrigerator door is formed of a half-glass material to enable selective viewing of the inside, while improving productivity and durability.

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a refrigerator capable of preventing the exposure of a detection device for detecting an operation to selectively operate at least a part of the refrigerator door transparently and expanding a transparent area.

An embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a home appliance including the technology previously applied to a refrigerator.

A refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a cabinet forming a storage space; a door opening and closing the cabinet and having an opening communicating with the storage space; a sensing device provided on the door and detecting a user's operation; a lighting unit that is turned on/off when the door is closed by a signal from the sensing device and illuminates the inside of the refrigerator; and a panel assembly provided on the opening and through which light is transmitted so that the inside of the refrigerator can be selectively viewed by turning the lighting unit on/off.

The above detection device is provided on the back of the panel assembly and is characterized by being a knock detection device that detects a user's knock operation of the panel assembly.

The above panel assembly is characterized by including a front panel formed as a half mirror that forms the front of the sub-door and selectively becomes transparent by reflecting part of light and transmitting part of light; a plurality of insulating panels formed of transparent tempered glass and spaced apart from the front panel; and a spacer provided between the front panel and the insulating panel and the plurality of insulating panels, and spaced apart and sealing between the front panel and the insulating panel and the plurality of insulating panels.

The front panel is characterized by comprising: a glass layer formed of transparent glass; a vacuum-deposited layer formed by vacuum-depositing a titanium compound on the back surface of the glass layer; and a bezel layer printed on the back surface of the vacuum-deposited layer along the edge of the glass layer so that light does not transmit therethrough.

The above front panel is characterized in that it further includes a transparent printing layer printed with a transparent material on the entire back surface of the vacuum deposition layer.

The front panel is characterized by including: a glass layer formed of transparent glass; a ceramic printing layer formed by heat after screen printing with reflective ink containing a titanium compound on the front surface of the glass layer; and a bezel layer formed along the rear edge of the glass layer and printed so as not to transmit light.

The front panel is characterized by including a glass layer formed of transparent glass; a hard coating layer coated with a triple layer of iron, cobalt, and chrome on the front surface of the glass layer; and a bezel layer formed along the rear edge of the glass layer and printed so that light does not transmit therethrough.

The above hard coating layer is characterized in that it is formed by atmospheric chemical vapor deposition (APCAVD) or spray injection.

The above bezel layer is characterized by being printed with a ceramic pigment containing glass powder.

The above glass layer is characterized by being a gray colored glass.

The above ceramic printing layer or hard coating layer is characterized in that it is formed so that the front panel has a transmittance of 20% to 30%.

It is characterized in that the space between the panels spaced apart based on the above-mentioned simple bar is filled with an inert gas.

The space between the panels spaced apart based on the above-mentioned simple bar is characterized by being vacuum-treated.

The front panel forms the entire front of the door, and the insulation panel is formed to a smaller size than the front panel and is characterized in that it is placed in an inner area of the front panel.

The front panel edge on the outside of the above insulation panel is characterized in that a bezel layer is formed so that light does not pass through.

The above detection device is characterized in that it is provided in the bezel layer and is not exposed to the outside.

The above insulating panel is characterized by being made of low-e glass with a low-emissivity coating layer formed thereon.

According to another aspect, a refrigerator may include a cabinet forming a storage space; a main door including a first frame rotatably connected to the cabinet by a hinge to open and close the storage space and having a first opening communicating with the storage space; a display unit mounted on the first frame within the first opening and displaying operation information of the refrigerator; a sub door including a second frame opening and closing the first opening and having a second opening, and a panel assembly covering the second opening; and a lighting unit provided on the main door or the cabinet.

When the main door and the sub door are closed, the lighting unit is turned on and the display unit is turned on, it is possible to check the information displayed on the display unit through the panel assembly.

With the sub-door closed, the display unit can be positioned at the rear side of the panel assembly.

The above panel assembly may include a front panel, an insulation panel spaced apart from the front panel, and a bar disposed between the front panel and the insulation panel.

When the sub-door is closed, the display unit can be positioned on the rear side of the insulation panel.

The above display unit can be mounted on the first frame at the lower side of the first opening.

A display mounting protrusion may be formed on both inner sides of the first opening, and a display guide that opens downward to allow the display mounting protrusion to be coupled may be provided on both sides of the display unit.

Multiple display mounting protrusions can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

At the lower end of the first opening, a display connection portion for electrically connecting to the display unit may be formed by being sunken downward.

A display connector may be provided at the bottom of the display unit, and a door connector protruding upwards to be connected to the display connector may be provided at the bottom of the display connection portion.

The lower rear surface of the display unit may be provided with a case extension for screw connection to the first frame.

The display unit may include an outer case coupled to the first frame, an inner case positioned inside the outer case, a display PCB accommodated in the inner case, and a display cover forming a front exterior of the display unit that covers the display PCB.

The above display unit may include a display for displaying operation information of the refrigerator and a plurality of operation buttons for setting the operation of the refrigerator.

The above display can be turned on when the sub-door is opened or a knock-on operation applied to the sub-door is detected by a knock detection mechanism.

When the above display is turned on, a first screen showing the operation information of the refrigerator is displayed, and after a set time has elapsed, the first screen is switched to a second screen, and other operation information of the refrigerator can be displayed on the second screen.

When the above display is turned on, a first screen displaying operation information of the refrigerator is displayed, and when one of the plurality of operation buttons is selected by the user, the first screen can be switched to a screen corresponding to the selected operation button.

After the screen corresponding to the selected operation button is displayed, if no user operation is detected for a set period of time, the display can display the first screen again.

The display may be turned off when the closing of the sub-door is detected, when the display is turned on and a set time has elapsed, or when an additional knock-on operation is detected on the sub-door by the knock detection mechanism.

According to another aspect, a home appliance comprises: a cabinet in which a space is formed; a door for opening and closing at least a portion of the space; a lighting unit for illuminating the inside of the space; an opening formed in the door; a panel assembly for closing the opening; a knock detection device for detecting a user's knock operation applied to the panel assembly; a detection device PCB for determining a knock signal generated by the knock detection device; and a main control unit for turning on the lighting unit if the knock operation is valid according to the detection device PCB, and the detection device PCB can determine a valid knock operation if a plurality of knock signals are detected within a predetermined time.

The above space may be a storage space for storing food at low temperatures.

When the above lighting unit is turned on, the user can check the inside of the space through the panel assembly.

When the lighting unit is turned off, the user's visibility inside the space may be limited compared to when the lighting unit is turned on.

The above panel assembly may include a front panel made of a transparent material having a see-through area that selectively allows for viewing into the space.

The above front panel has a half-mirror structure that controls light transmittance or reflectivity, so that the interior can be seen when the lighting unit is on, and can be in a mirror-like state when the lighting unit is off.

The above lighting unit can be installed inside the above cabinet.

Alternatively, the lighting unit may be installed on the rear side of the door.

The above knock detection device can be installed on the door.

The above panel assembly may include a front panel made of a transparent material having a see-through area that selectively allows for visibility into the space. The knock detection device may detect a user's knock operation applied to the see-through area.

The above knock detection device can detect vibrations generated by the user's knock operation.

The above knock detection device and the detection device PCB may be installed on the door, respectively. The main control unit may be installed on the cabinet.

When the lighting unit is turned on and a set time has elapsed, the lighting unit can be controlled to automatically turn off.

When the above lighting unit is turned on and a valid knock operation is detected by the detection device PC, the lighting unit can be controlled to be turned off.

The above panel assembly may include a front panel made of a transparent material having a see-through area that selectively allows for viewing into the space, and a bezel arranged on the rear side of the front panel to surround the see-through area. The knock detection device may be mounted on the rear side of the bezel.

An insulating panel may be additionally placed at the rear of the front panel and spaced apart by a spacer, so that a sealed space may be formed between the front panel and the insulating panel.

The following effects can be expected from the refrigerator according to the proposed embodiment.

In a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention, a panel assembly that selectively transmits and reflects light is provided on a portion of the door, and a lighting unit that is turned on and off by a user's operation is provided inside the door, so that the lighting unit is turned on by a user's operation when the door is closed, thereby allowing the interior of the refrigerator to be viewed.

Therefore, the internal space can be checked without opening the door, and the location of food can be easily identified, thereby improving user convenience. Furthermore, unnecessary opening and closing of the door can be prevented, thereby preventing loss of cold air and improving power consumption and storage performance.

In addition, the panel assembly has a structure like half glass, so that the interior can be seen when the lighting unit is turned on, and when the lighting unit is not turned on, it has a mirror-like shape, so that the exterior of the refrigerator door can stand out more.

In addition, a microphone may be provided on the back of the panel assembly to detect sound caused by vibration when the user knocks on the panel assembly. Accordingly, the lighting unit can be turned on and off by the user's knocking operation, and the panel assembly can be selectively made transparent.

Accordingly, the panel assembly can be made transparent by a simple operation, and the sound of vibration transmitted from the same medium is the same regardless of which position on the front of the panel assembly is knocked, so there is an advantage in that operation is easy and effective detection is possible.

In addition, the panel assembly is configured with a front panel made of a half-mirror material and a plurality of insulating panels made of insulating glass material to prevent heat loss through the panel assembly. In addition, the space between the front panel, the insulating panel, and the plurality of insulating panels is sealed with a sealant and a sealant to form an insulating space, and the insulating space is filled with a vacuum or an inert gas, so that the effect of further improving the insulating performance can be expected.

In addition, a metal deposition layer is formed on the back surface of the front panel so that the front plate can have a structure like a half mirror, thereby further improving the appearance of the door.

In addition, a ceramic printing layer or a hard coating layer is formed on the front surface of the front panel, and can be formed into a half-mirror-like structure by being fired into a glass layer through strengthening by high-temperature heating, and productivity can be improved through relatively lower production costs and reduction in the number of processes.

In addition, a bezel is formed on the front panel, and the detection device is positioned on the bezel so that the knock operation of the front panel can be easily recognized, while at the same time preventing the detection device from being exposed to the outside, thereby further improving the appearance. In addition, the detection device is formed on the bezel at the bottom of the front panel so that the bezel at other locations of the front panel can be relatively thinned, and thus the visible portion of the door can appear wider.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a front view of the refrigerator with the entire door open.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of the refrigerator with the sub-door open.
Figure 4 is a front view of the sub-door in an opaque state.
Figure 5 is a front view of the above sub-door in a transparent state.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the main door and sub door of the refrigerator combined.
Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the main door and sub door separated.
Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the main door.
Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the main door and display unit.
Figures 10a and 10b are partial perspective views showing the mounting state of the display unit.
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the display unit mounted thereon.
Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the display assembly.
Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13' of Figure 1.
Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting structure of a door opening device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 15 is a drawing showing the operating state of the door opening device.
Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16' of Figure 1.
Figure 17 is a perspective view of the above sub door.
Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of the sub door as seen from the front.
Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view of the sub door as seen from the rear.
Figure 20 is a 20-20' cutaway perspective view of Figure 17.
Figure 21 is an exploded perspective view of a panel assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a front panel of a panel assembly.
Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of a front panel of a panel assembly.
Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of a front panel of a panel assembly.
Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross section of the above sub-door.
Figure 26 is an exploded perspective view showing the upper hinge joint structure of the above sub-door.
Figure 27 is a partial perspective view showing the state in which the upper hinge is mounted.
Figure 28 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the joint structure of the upper hinge.
Fig. 29 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the joint structure of the lower hinge of the above sub-door.
Figure 30 is an exploded perspective view of the second detection device and knock detection device combination structure of the sub-door as viewed from the front.
Figure 31 is an exploded perspective view of the second detection device and knock detection device combination structure of the sub-door as viewed from below.
Figure 32 is an exploded perspective view of the knock detection device.
Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 33-33' of Figure 17.
Fig. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the microphone module of the knock detection device.
Figure 35 is an exploded perspective view showing the coupling structure of the second sensing device.
Figure 36 is a partial perspective view showing the second detection device mounted.
Figure 37 is a drawing showing the wire layout inside the sub door.
Figure 38 is a perspective view showing the state of foam injection of the above sub-door.
Figure 39 is a drawing showing the arrangement of the vent hole of the above sub-door.
Figure 40 is a perspective view showing the operating state of the projection device of the refrigerator.
Fig. 41 is a cutaway perspective view showing the internal structure of the freezer of the refrigerator.
Figure 42 is a block diagram showing the flow of control signals of the refrigerator.
Figure 43 is a flowchart sequentially showing the sub-door operation of the refrigerator.
Figure 44 is a perspective view showing the mounting state of the display unit.
Figure 45 is a drawing showing the front configuration of the above display unit.
Figure 46 is a drawing showing changes in the display status of the display unit according to the knock-on operation.
Figure 47 is a drawing showing the change in status of the display when the sub-door is opened and closed.
Figure 48 is a drawing showing the change in display status when the auto door function of the above display unit is set.
Figure 49 is a drawing showing the change in display status when the auto drawer function of the above display unit is set.
Figure 50 is a drawing showing the change in display status when the temperature control function of the above display unit is set.

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

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a front view of the refrigerator with the entire door open. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the refrigerator with the sub-door open.

As illustrated in the drawing, the refrigerator (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have an exterior formed by a cabinet (10) forming a storage space and a door for opening and closing the storage space.

The interior of the above cabinet (10) can be partitioned vertically by a barrier (11), and a refrigerator (12) can be formed in the upper part of the cabinet (10) and a freezer (13) can be formed in the lower part of the cabinet (10).

In addition, various storage members (121) such as shelves, drawers, or baskets may be provided inside the refrigerator compartment (12). The storage members (121) may be pulled out or in when the door is open, as needed, and food may be stored or stored by being pulled out or in. The refrigerator compartment (12) may be provided with a main lighting unit (85) for illuminating the refrigerator compartment. The main lighting unit (85) may be placed in the freezer compartment (13), and may be placed at any location on the inner wall surface of the refrigerator.

Inside the above-mentioned freezer (12), a freezer storage member (131) in the form of a drawer that can be pulled out or inserted may be mainly arranged, and these freezer storage members (131) may be configured to be pulled out or inserted in conjunction with the opening of the freezer door (30). In addition, a first detection device (31) capable of detecting a user's human body may be provided on the front of the freezer door (30). A detailed description of the first detection device (31) will be discussed again below.

The above door may be composed of a refrigerator door (20) and a freezer door (30). The refrigerator door (20) may be configured to open and close the open front of the refrigerator (12) by rotating, and the freezer door (30) may be configured to open and close the open front of the freezer (13) by rotating. In addition, the refrigerator door (20) and the freezer door (30) are provided as a pair on the left and right, and are configured to be able to shield the freezer (13) and the freezing chamber (13), respectively.

The refrigerator door (20) and the freezer door (30) may be provided with a plurality of door baskets, and the door baskets may be configured so as not to interfere with the storage members (121, 131) provided inside the refrigerator door (20) and the freezer door (30) when they are closed.

The above refrigerator door (20) and freezer door (30) form the overall appearance when viewed from the front and can be formed with a metal material to give the entire refrigerator (1) a metal material texture. In addition, if necessary, the refrigerator door (20) can be equipped with a dispenser for dispensing water or ice.

Meanwhile, in the embodiment of the present invention, a refrigerator having a bottom-freeze type refrigerator with a freezer located at the bottom and a French type door in which a pair of doors rotate to open and close each space is described as an example, but the present invention can be applied to all types of refrigerators equipped with doors regardless of the shape of the refrigerator.

Meanwhile, among the pair of refrigerator doors (20), the refrigerator door (20) on the right side (as seen in FIG. 1) may be configured to be opened and closed in two ways. In detail, the refrigerator door (20) located on the right side may be configured with a main door (40) having an exterior formed of a metal material for opening and closing the refrigerator (12), and a sub-door (50) that is rotatably positioned on the inside of the main door (40) for opening and closing the opening of the main door (40).

The above main door (40) may be formed to have the same size as the refrigerator door (20) on the left side (as seen in FIG. 1) among a pair of refrigerator doors (20), and is rotatably mounted to the cabinet (10) by a main hinge (401) and a middle hinge (402) to open and close a portion of the refrigerator (12). The main hinge (401) and the middle hinge (402) may be referred to as first hinges.

And, an opening (403) (or first opening) is formed in the main door (40). A door basket (404) is mounted on the back surface of the main door (40), including the inside of the opening (403). Therefore, a user can access the door basket (404) through the opening (403) without opening the main door (40). At this time, the size of the opening (403) occupies most of the front surface of the main door (40) excluding a portion of the perimeter of the main door (40).

The sub-door (50) is rotatably mounted on the inside of the opening (403) to open and close the opening (403). In addition, at least a portion of the sub-door (50) is formed of a transparent material such as glass. Therefore, access to the opening (403) is possible by opening the sub-door (50), and the inside of the opening (403) can be seen even when the sub-door (50) is closed. Therefore, the sub-door (50) can be called a see-through door.

Meanwhile, the glass material constituting the sub-door (50) can be configured to have light transmittance and reflectivity adjusted to enable selective operation of transparency or opacity depending on the user's operation. Accordingly, the sub-door can be made transparent only when the user desires, allowing the interior to be visible, and can otherwise remain opaque.

Figure 4 is a front view of the sub-door in an opaque state.

As illustrated in the drawing, when both the main door (40) and the sub-door (50) are closed and there is no operation on the refrigerator (1), the sub-door (50) becomes an opaque black color or a mirror-like state. Therefore, the sub-door (50) cannot visualize the space inside the sub-door (50), i.e., the storage space of the main door (40) and the internal space of the refrigerator compartment (12).

Accordingly, the sub-door (50) maintains its black color, allowing the exterior of the refrigerator to have a beautiful black mirror-like texture, resulting in a simple and elegant appearance. In addition, this appearance harmonizes with the metal texture of the main door (40), the refrigerator door (20), and the freezer door (30), thereby providing a more luxurious image.

Figure 5 is a front view of the above sub-door in a transparent state.

As illustrated in the drawing, when both the main door (40) and the sub-door (50) are closed, the user can make the sub-door (50) transparent through a specific operation. When the sub-door (50) becomes transparent, the storage space of the main door (40) and the internal space of the refrigerator (12) can be visualized. Accordingly, the user can check the food storage status of the storage space of the main door (40) and the internal space of the refrigerator (12) without opening the main door (40) and the sub-door (50).

In addition, when the sub-door (50) becomes transparent, the display unit (60) positioned at the rear of the sub-door (50) also becomes visible, allowing the operating status of the refrigerator to be displayed externally.

The specific operating method for visualizing the storage space of the main door (40) and the internal space of the refrigerator (12) through the sub-door (50) and the configuration that makes this possible will be examined in more detail below.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the main door and sub-door of the refrigerator combined. Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the main door and sub-door separated. Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the main door.

As shown in the drawing, the main door (40) can have an outer shape formed by a metal outer plate (41), a door liner (42) coupled to the outer plate (41), and door cap decos (45, 46) provided at the upper and lower ends of the outer plate (41) and the door liner (42).

The above outer plate (41) may be formed from a plate-shaped stainless steel material and may be bent to form a portion of the front surface and the periphery of the main door (40). In addition, the area corresponding to the opening (403) is formed to be open.

In addition, the door liner (42) can be injection-molded from a plastic material and forms the back surface of the main door (40). In addition, the door liner (42) is also formed so that an area corresponding to the opening (403) is opened. In addition, a plurality of protruding structures can be formed in the opening (403) so that the door basket (404) can be mounted thereon.

A rear gasket (44) may be provided around the rear surface of the door liner (42). The rear gasket (44) is in close contact with the perimeter of the cabinet (10) to prevent cold air leakage between the main door (40) and the cabinet (10).

In addition, a door lighting unit (49) for illuminating the inside of the opening (403) may be provided on the upper surface of the door liner (42). The door lighting unit (49) can illuminate the entire opening, including the door basket (404), by irradiating light downward from the upper side of the opening (403), and can make the sub-door (50) transparent.

The above cap deco (45, 46) forms the upper and lower surfaces of the main door (40), and a hinge mounting portion (451) may be formed on each to enable the main door (40) to be rotatably mounted on the cabinet (10). The upper portion of the main door (40) may be coupled with the main hinge (401), and the lower portion of the main door (40) may be coupled with a middle hinge (402) to rotatably support the main door (40) from the upper and lower ends.

And, a door handle (462) can be sunken into the lower surface of the main door (40), that is, the cap deco (46), and the user can open and close the refrigerator (12) by inserting his/her hand into the door handle (462) and rotating the main door (40).

Meanwhile, a door frame (43) may be further formed between the outer plate (41) and the door liner (42). The door frame (43) (or first frame) is respectively joined between the outer plate (41) and the door liner (42) and forms the perimeter of the opening (403).

With the outer plate (41), door liner (42), door frame (43), and cap deco (45, 46) combined, the inner space of the main door (40) is filled with foam to form an insulating material. That is, an insulating material is placed within the perimeter area of the opening (403) to insulate the inner space and the outer space.

The above door frame (43) may be injection-molded from a different plastic material than the door liner (42). Of course, if necessary, the door frame (43) may be integrally molded with the door liner (42) and directly connected to the outer plate (41).

In addition, a frame step portion (431) protruding inward may be formed on the inner surface of the door frame (43). Accordingly, when the sub-door (50) is closed, the frame step portion (431) can support the sub-door (50).

The above frame step portion (431) may be provided with a front gasket (434). The front gasket (434) comes into contact with the back surface of the sub-door (50) when the sub-door (50) is closed, thereby sealing the space between the main door (40) and the sub-door (50). Of course, the front gasket (434) may be omitted as needed. In addition, the front gasket (434) may be formed in the shape of a sheet of metal material, and may be configured to be in close contact with the sub-door gasket (591) having a magnetic force by means of magnetic force.

A frame heater (432) may be provided on the back surface of the frame step portion (431). The frame heater (432) is arranged along the frame step portion (431) to heat the frame step portion (431). The frame step portion (431) may have a relatively low surface temperature due to the influence of cold air inside the room. Therefore, condensation may occur on the surface of the frame step portion (431), and the condensation can be prevented by driving the frame heater (432).

In addition, a hinge hole (433) is opened on one side of the door frame (43) to which a sub-hinge (51, 52) for mounting the sub-door (50) is mounted. The hinge hole (433) is opened at a position facing the side of the sub-door (50) and is formed so that the sub-hinge (51, 52) can be inserted. The sub-hinge (51, 52) may be referred to as a second hinge.

Meanwhile, a hinge case (47) may be provided on the inner surface (surface in contact with the insulating material) of the door frame (43) corresponding to the hinge hole (433). The hinge case (47) is configured by a first case (471) and a second case (472) being joined to each other from the upper and lower sides. In addition, the hinge case (47) forms a space in which a part of the sub-hinge (51, 52) inserted through the hinge hole (433) can be rotatably received when the first case (471) and the second case (472) are joined.

In addition, a hinge mounting member (473) is provided in the sunken space of the hinge case (47), and the hinge mounting member (473) can be fixed by the combination of the first case (471) and the second case (472). The hinge mounting member (473) can be formed of a steel material, and an axis insertion portion (4731) into which the hinge axis of the sub-hinge (51, 52) is inserted can be formed.

The hinge case (47) can be mounted in each of the hinge holes (433) formed at the upper and lower portions of the door frame (43). In addition, each of the hinge cases (47) positioned at the upper and lower portions can be formed to have the same structure and shape.

Meanwhile, a hinge frame (48) may be provided on the outside of the door frame (43). The hinge frame (48) is formed to extend vertically and fix the hinge cases (47) positioned at the top and bottom, respectively.

In detail, the hinge frame (48) is formed of metal or a plastic material with excellent strength, and can be formed in a plate shape and extended in the vertical direction. The upper end (482) and the lower end (483) of the hinge frame (48) can be bent and fixed to the cap decos (45, 46) at the upper and lower ends of the main door (40), respectively. That is, the hinge frame (48) can be fixed at the upper and lower ends to the cap decos (45, 46) so that the mounting position can be maintained, and indirectly supports the sub hinges (51, 52).

And, a case fixing portion (481) may be formed at the upper and lower portions of the hinge frame (48). The case fixing portion (481) may be formed by cutting out a portion of the hinge frame (48). Accordingly, a portion forming a sunken space of the hinge case (47) may be received and fixedly joined to the cut-out case fixing portion (481) of the hinge frame (48). At this time, the hinge case (47) may be coupled to the hinge frame (48) by a separate coupling member such as a screw.

In addition, a frame reinforcing member (484) may be formed recessed between the case fixing members (481) formed on the upper and lower portions of the hinge frame (48). In addition, a plurality of frame openings (485) may be formed in the frame reinforcing member (484). The frame reinforcing member (484) may reinforce the strength of the hinge frame (48) and prevent bending or deformation from occurring, thereby maintaining the mounting position of the hinge case (47).

And when the foaming liquid is injected into the main door (40), the surface area is increased to improve the adhesion with the foaming liquid. In addition, the foaming liquid can pass through the frame opening (485), thereby improving the flowability of the foaming liquid, and when the insulating material is formed, the hinge frame (48) can be embedded and fixed in the insulating material.

The above sub hinges (51, 52) may be composed of an upper hinge (51) mounted on the upper side of the sub door (50) and a lower hinge (52) mounted on the lower side of the sub door (50). In addition, the upper hinge (51) and the lower hinge (52) may extend laterally toward the hinge hole (433) and be coupled on the inside of the main door (40).

Accordingly, the sub hinges (51, 52) can be installed at precise locations and have a structure that extends laterally. Accordingly, since the interference structure of the sub hinges (51, 52) does not exist in the gap between the main door (40) and the sub door (50), the gap between the main door (40) and the sub door (50) can be maintained in a very narrow state, so that the appearance can look more beautiful. In addition, while maintaining the gap between the main door (40) and the sub door (50) in a very narrow state, the sagging of the sub door (50) is effectively prevented, so that interference with the main door (40) does not occur when the sub door (50) rotates.

In addition, a hinge cover (53) may be further provided above the upper hinge (51) to shield the upper hinge (51) and guide the wire entry and exit of the sub door (50). The specific structures of the sub hinges (51, 52) and the structure of the hinge cover (53) will be examined in more detail below.

Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the main door and display unit. Figs. 10a and 10b are partial perspective views showing the mounting state of the display unit.

As illustrated in the drawing, a display unit (60) may be provided in the opening of the main door (40). The display unit (60) is configured to display and operate the operating status of the refrigerator (1) and to allow a user to identify the sub-door (50) from the outside when the sub-door (50) is in a transparent state. That is, when the sub-door (50) is in an opaque state, it cannot be seen from the outside, and when the sub-door (50) is in a transparent state, various types of information can be displayed to the outside.

Of course, the display unit (60) may be equipped with a display (61) for displaying status information of the refrigerator (1) and various operation buttons (62) for setting the operation of the refrigerator (1), and the operation of the refrigerator (1) can be controlled by operating the operation buttons (62).

The above display unit (60) may be provided detachably at the bottom of the opening (403). Accordingly, the display unit (60) may be detached when inspection or repair of the display unit (60) is required. In addition, after assembling the main door (40), the display unit (60) assembled as a separate module may be simply mounted and assembled. In addition, a display unit (60) having a required function may be selectively mounted depending on the specifications of the refrigerator (1).

In order to detach the display unit (60), display mounting protrusions (435) are formed on both inner sides of the opening (403). In addition, a display connection part (436) that can be electrically connected to the display unit (60) may be provided at the bottom of the opening (403).

The display mounting protrusion (435) may be formed by protruding from the side of the opening (403), more specifically, from a portion of the door liner (42) and a portion of the door frame (43). That is, the display mounting protrusion (435) may be formed by a liner-side mounting portion (4352) and a frame-side mounting portion (4351) being coupled to each other, and may be formed in a protrusion shape having a circular cross-section. Therefore, when the display unit (60) is mounted, the display mounting protrusion (435) may maintain a coupled state, so that the coupling between the door liner (42) and the door frame (43) may be maintained more firmly. The display mounting protrusion (435) may be formed in multiple numbers, and may be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction.

The above display mounting protrusion (435) has a structure that matches the display guide (634) formed on both left and right sides of the display unit (60). The display guide (634) has a structure that opens downward. Therefore, when the display unit (60) moves from upward to downward, the display mounting protrusion (435) and the display guide (634) are coupled to each other. In addition, the display unit (60) can be fixed by being seated at the lower end of the opening (403) in a mounted state.

The display connection portion (436) may be formed on the bottom surface of the door liner (42). The display connection portion (436) may be formed to be recessed downward or stepped, and may be formed so that at least a portion of the display unit (60) can be inserted when the display unit (60) is mounted.

In addition, the display connection part (436) may be provided with a door connector (4361). The door connector (4361) may have a structure in which a power source for the operation of the display unit (60) and a wire for transmitting a signal are connected, and is electrically connected to the display unit (60) by a detachable structure of the display (61) that is detachable in the vertical direction.

That is, the door connector (4361) protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the display connection portion (436), and when the display unit (60) is mounted, it is combined with the display connector (651) provided on the bottom of the display unit (60) to enable electrical connection.

The above door connector (4361) may be configured in multiples and may be formed separately for each function of the display unit (60). That is, the door connectors (4361) corresponding to the displays (61) and operation buttons (62) of the display unit (60) may be formed independently and configured to transmit separate power and signals to each.

Meanwhile, a case extension (635) is formed at the lower rear side of the display unit (60). In addition, a screw hole (6351) to which a screw is fastened is formed in the case extension (635), so that the display unit (60) can be maintained in a state of being coupled to the main door (40).

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the display unit mounted thereon. Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the display assembly.

As shown in the drawing, the display unit (60) may be configured to include an outer case (63) forming an outer shape, an inner case (64) provided on the inside of the outer case (63), a display PCB (65), and a display cover (66).

The above outer case (63) forms the overall appearance of the display unit (60) and forms a space inside which an inner case (64) can be accommodated.

The above-mentioned receiving space is opened forward, and a connector opening (631) may be formed on the bottom surface of the space through which a wire connected to a display connector (651) for coupling with the door connector (4361) enters. The display connector (651) may be provided below the connector opening (631), and, if necessary, the display connector (651) may be fixed to the connector opening (631).

Accordingly, when the display unit (60) is mounted in the opening (403) of the main door (40), the display connector (651) and the door connector (4361) may be connected to each other by an operation of moving the display unit (60) up and down. This connection enables power supply and signal transmission to the display unit (60).

In addition, a plurality of case coupling protrusions (632) are formed on the inner upper and lower sides of the receiving space so as to be coupled with the inner case (64). The coupling protrusions (632) may be formed on the open entrance side of the receiving space, and a plurality of them may be formed at regular intervals.

In addition, on the left and right sides of the inner surface of the receiving space, a case support member (633) that supports the inner case (64) protrudes inward. A screw hole (6331) into which a screw is inserted may be further formed in the case support member (633), and the inner case (64) may be fixedly mounted.

A display guide (634) is formed on both left and right sides of the outer case (63). The display guide (634) may be formed in a rib shape protruding from both left and right sides of the outer case (63). In addition, the display guide (634) is formed to be opened downward, and is formed so that the display mounting protrusion (435) can be inserted through the opened lower side.

The display guide (634) is formed so that its width becomes narrower as it goes upward based on the opened entrance (6343), and the upper end (6341) of the display guide (634) can be formed to have the same size as the diameter of the display mounting protrusion (435). Therefore, the display mounting protrusion (435) can be easily inserted into the display guide and can be restrained at the upper end (6341) of the display guide (634).

In addition, the display guide (634) is further formed with a fixing portion (6342) protruding inward. The distance between the fixing portions (6342) may be formed to be somewhat smaller than the diameter of the display mounting protrusion (435). Accordingly, the display guide (634) may be elastically deformed while passing through the fixing portion (6342), and may be press-fit and fixed when moving to the upper end (6341) of the display guide (634).

The inner case (64) can be injection-molded with a plastic material and provides a space in which the display PCB (65) is mounted. A depression is formed in the center of the inner case (64) to a size corresponding to the display PCB (65), and a plurality of case joining grooves (641) are formed around the periphery of the inner case (64) and are joined to the case joining protrusions (632).

In addition, a case mounting portion (642) extending laterally and mounted on the case support portion (633) is formed on both sides of the inner case (64). The inner case (64) is coupled to the outer case (63) by a screw fastened to a screw hole (6421) of the case mounting portion (642).

In addition, a case hole (643) is formed on one side of the inner case (64). The case hole (643) is a place where wires connected to the display PCB (65) enter and exit, and can be connected to the display connector (651) through the connector opening (631) passing through the case hole (643).

The above display PCB (65) can be accommodated in a space formed on the inside of the inner case (64). A display (61) and a plurality of operation buttons (62) can be mounted on the display PCB (65) in a module form. In addition, the elements on the display PCB (65) can be configured to be sealed by being surrounded by a resin material for waterproofing and moisture resistance.

The above display (61) may be formed in the form of a panel capable of displaying the operating status and operating information of the refrigerator (1). In addition, the operation buttons (62) may be provided in multiple numbers on both left and right sides based on the display (61) and may be configured to be operated by the user by pressing the display cover (66).

With the display PCB (65) mounted on the inner case (64), the inner case (64) is accommodated inside the outer case (63), and the cover display (61) is coupled to shield the opening of the outer case (63). Therefore, the display PCB (65) and the inner case (64) can be shielded by the cover display (61).

The display cover (66) may be formed to have a size corresponding to the opened front of the outer case (63). Accordingly, the display cover (66) may form the front exterior of the display unit (60). In addition, the center of the display cover (66) is configured so that information output from the display (61) can be viewed. The display (61) may be exposed through the opening of the display cover (66), or a portion of the display cover (66) may be formed transparently and exposed to the outside.

In addition, a plurality of operation buttons (62) may be provided on both left and right sides of the display (61), and the operation buttons (62) may also be displayed on both sides of the display cover (66) corresponding to these. The operation buttons (62) displayed on the display cover (66) are not actual operation buttons (62), but are displayed at corresponding locations and can be operated by touching or pressing by the user.

On both left and right sides of the display cover (66), a case fixing member (661) is formed protrudingly to securely mount the display cover (66). The case fixing member (661) may have an end formed in a hook shape, and is hooked and restrained by case fixing grooves (636) formed on both sides of the outer case (63) so that the display cover (66) can be securely mounted.

Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13' of Figure 1.

As shown in the drawing, the door lighting unit (49) may be provided on the upper portion of the main door (40). The door lighting unit (49) may be formed in the space between the door liner (42) and the door frame (43). Of course, the door lighting unit (49) is not limited to its mounting position, and may be formed on either side of the door liner (42) or the door frame (43), and may be positioned at a position capable of illuminating the inside of the opening (403).

The above door lighting unit (49) may be configured to include a lamp case (491) mounted on the inside of the main door (40), a lamp PCB (492) provided on one side of the lamp case (491) and having a plurality of LEDs (4921) arranged thereon, and a lamp cover that shields the opening surface of the lamp case (491) and is exposed through the opening (403).

The lamp cover (493) is formed to extend along the door liner (42) and includes a recessed portion (4914) that forms a recessed space therein to accommodate the lamp PCB (492). In detail, the recessed portion (4914) may have a surface facing the lamp PCB (492) formed to be rounded, and light irradiated from the lamp PCB (492) is reflected through the round surface (4915) having a predetermined curvature and directed toward the lamp case (491). In addition, a film may be attached or coated to increase the reflectivity of light on the inner surface of the recessed portion (4914), particularly the round surface (4915).

A lamp PCB mounting portion (4913) on which the lamp PCB (492) is mounted is formed on one surface facing the round surface (4915). The lamp PCB mounting portion (4913) allows the lamp PCB (492) to be fixedly mounted in a direction perpendicular to the lamp cover (493). At this time, the positions of the lamp PCB mounting portion (4913) and the lamp PCB (492) are positioned above the door frame (43), and are covered by the end of the door frame (43) when viewed from below. Therefore, the LED (4921) can be covered by the end of the door frame (43) without a separate bezel, thereby preventing a phenomenon in which light appears to be focused.

In addition, a first case mounting portion (4911) and a second case mounting portion (4912) are formed at both ends of the recessed portion (4914). The first case mounting portion (4911) and the second case mounting portion (4912) are mounted so as to be in surface contact with the inner surface of the door liner (42) and the door frame (43), respectively, so that the lamp case (491) can be caught and restrained or adhesively fixed on the inner side of the main door (40).

In addition, cover insertion grooves (4916, 4917) may be formed in the first case mounting portion (4911) and the second case mounting portion (4912). The cover insertion grooves (4916, 4917) are formed stepwise so that, when the lamp case (491) is mounted, a space is formed between the first case mounting portion (4911), the door liner (42), the second case mounting portion (4912), and the door frame (43) into which both ends of the lamp cover (493) can be inserted.

The above lamp cover (493) is formed so that light reflected from the round surface (4915) of the above recessed portion (4914) can be transmitted, and blocks the opening of the above recessed portion (4914) and at the same time blocks the space between the door liner (42) and the door frame (43).

The above lamp cover (493) is formed transparently or semi-transparently so that light reflected from the round surface (4915) and evenly spread can be transmitted. Accordingly, light passing through the lamp cover (493) illuminates the inside of the high-temperature chamber in an indirect lighting manner and has an effect similar to surface light emission.

In addition, the lamp cover (493) may be attached with a film or coated to more effectively diffuse light. In addition, particles or materials that diffuse light may be added during injection molding of the lamp cover (493) as needed.

Meanwhile, cover fixing parts (4931, 4932) may be formed protrudingly on both ends of the lamp cover (493) to be inserted into the inside of the cover insertion groove (4916, 4917) so that the lamp cover (493) can be fixedly mounted. The cover fixing parts (4931, 4932) on both sides of the lamp cover (493) are hook-shaped and are press-fitted into the inside of the cover insertion groove (4916, 4917) so that the lamp cover (493) can be fixedly mounted.

The above door lighting unit (49) can be selectively turned on/off according to the user's operation, and when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, the opening (403) and the back surface of the sub-door (50) become bright. When the inner side becomes brighter than the outer side due to the lighting of the door lighting unit (49), the light irradiated by the door lighting unit (49) passes through the sub-door (50). Therefore, the user can recognize the sub-door (50) as transparent and view the storage space inside the main door (40) from the outside through the sub-door (50).

Of course, a separate main lighting unit (85) may be provided inside the refrigerator compartment (12), and the interior space may be visible from the outside through the sub-door (50) by turning the main lighting unit (85) on/off. The main lighting unit (85) provided inside the refrigerator compartment (12) may be turned on/off together with the door lighting unit (49) or may be turned on/off independently.

Meanwhile, a heater support portion (435) protruding rearward is formed on the back surface of the frame step portion (431). The heater support portion (435) is formed along the perimeter of the frame step portion (431) and may be formed to protrude rearward. In addition, the protruding position of the heater support portion (435) is located on the outer side (upper side in FIG. 13) of the frame step portion (431) so that the frame heater can be located on the outer end of the frame step portion (431).

In addition, the frame heater (432) heats the edge of the frame step portion (431) that has a high possibility of condensation. The edge of the frame step portion (431) is a portion that comes into contact with the outer portion of the sub-door gasket (591), has a relatively low temperature, and is a portion that comes into contact with the outside air, so there is a high possibility of condensation. Therefore, the outer side of the frame step portion (431) is heated by the frame heater (432), thereby preventing condensation from occurring.

Meanwhile, the main door (40) and the sub door (50) are provided with door restraint members (4361, 5721) at corresponding positions. The door restraint members (4361, 5721) restrain the sub door (50) to the main door (40) by magnetic force without a separate restraint structure, thereby preventing the sub door (50) from being opened arbitrarily due to inertia generated when the main door (40) rotates.

In detail, a first magnetic mounting portion (436) is formed on the inner surface of the door frame (43) forming the upper surface of the opening (403), and a first magnet (4361) is fixedly mounted to the first magnetic mounting portion (436).

And, a second magnetic mounting portion (572) is formed on the upper portion of the sub-door (50) corresponding to the first magnetic mounting portion (436), and the second magnet (5721) is fixedly mounted to the second magnetic mounting portion (572). The second magnetic mounting portion (572) is formed on the inner surface of the upper cap deco (57) forming the upper surface of the sub-door (50), and therefore, the second magnet (5721) is not exposed to the outside.

When the sub-door (50) is closed, the first magnet (4361) and the second magnet (5721) are positioned to face each other, and are arranged so that the facing surfaces have different polarities. Therefore, the sub-door (50) is maintained in a closed state by the attractive force of the first magnet (4361) and the second magnet (5721). Of course, when the rotational force of the sub-door (50) is greater than the magnetic force of the first magnet (4361) and the second magnet (5721) due to the user's operation, the sub-door (50) becomes rotatable.

The first magnet (4361) and the second magnet (5721) exert a strong magnetic force when they are positioned on the same extension line, and the arrangement structure of the first magnet (4361) and the second magnet (5721) is arranged parallel to the extension direction of the rotation axis of the sub-door (50). Therefore, when the sub-door (50) begins to open, the first magnet (4361) and the second magnet (5721) become intertwined with each other, so that the magnetic force may be greatly weakened. Therefore, after the sub-door (50) is rotated by a certain angle, the sub-door (50) opening operation can be performed smoothly.

Meanwhile, the cap deco (45) is provided on the top of the main door (40), and although not shown, a foam is injected into the internal space formed by the outer plate (41), the door liner (42), the door frame (43), and the cap deco (45), so that the insulating material is formed inside. The cap deco (45) is sunken downward to form an opening device receiving portion (452), and the opening device receiving portion (452) can be shielded by the cap deco cover (453).

Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting structure of a door opening device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 15 is a drawing showing the operating state of the door opening device.

As illustrated in the drawing, the cap deco (45) on the upper surface of the main door (40) is formed with the opening device receiving portion (452). In addition, a door opening device (70) may be provided on the inside of the opening device receiving portion (452). In addition, the opened upper surface of the opening device receiving portion (452) is shielded by the cap deco cover (453).

The above door opening device (70) is for automatic opening of the main door (40) and may be configured with a drive motor (72) inside the opening device case (71), a push rod (74) for pushing and opening the main door (40), and gears (73) for transmitting the power of the drive motor (72) to the push rod (74).

A rack gear (741) for gear engagement with the gears (73) is formed on the outer surface of the above push rod (74), so that the main door (40) can be entered and exited through the load hole (4511) on the back surface of the main door (40) according to the rotation of the driving motor (72).

In addition, the push rod (74) is formed to have a predetermined curvature. Therefore, even when the main door (40) rotates, the front end of the push rod (74) maintains stable contact with the front of the cabinet (10) so that the cabinet (10) can be continuously pushed to open the main door (40).

The main door (40) can be rotated by a predetermined angle by the door opening device (70) so that the user can open the main door (40) by inserting a part of the body, such as an elbow, when holding food and unable to use both hands.

For example, by the operation of the door opening device (70), the gap (D) between the main door (40) and the adjacent refrigerator door (20) can be opened to approximately 90 mm, and at this time, the rotation angle of the main door (40) can be between 24° and 26°. When the refrigerator door (20) is automatically opened by this gap (D), the user can additionally open the refrigerator door (20) by inserting an elbow or a part of the body into the open gap of the refrigerator door (20) even when the user is holding an object and cannot use both hands.

Of course, since the door opening device (70) is placed inside the cap deco (45) which has a limited width, there is a limitation on the length of the push rod (74) that is extended or extended. Therefore, in order to minimize the length of the push rod (74), the door opening device (70) should be positioned as close to the rotation axis of the main hinge (401) as possible, but should be positioned at a position where the force for opening the main door (40) can be effectively transmitted. In addition, in order to secure the opening angle of the main door (40), the gears (73) are arranged in combination so that the push rod (74) of a certain length can be extended as much as possible.

The above door opening device (70) can be mounted to the opening device receiving portion (452) by a screw. In addition, the door opening device (70) can be supported inside the opening device receiving portion (452) by a buffer member penetrated by the screw, thereby preventing vibration noise generated during operation of the door opening device.

Meanwhile, the door opening device (70) is selectively driven by the user's operation, and when a door opening signal is input by the user, the main door (40) is rotated by the operation of the driving motor (72). At this time, since the user's hands cannot be used, the operation input of the door opening device (70) can be made by sensing the position and motion rather than by direct input through physical contact with the user's body. A detailed description of this will be discussed again below.

Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16-16' of Figure 1.

As shown in the drawing, the main door (40) is formed by combining the outer plate (41), the door frame (43), and the door liner (42) to form the outer shape of both sides of the opening (403).

At this time, a front support portion (437) that is bent to support the outer plate (41) is formed at the front end of the door frame (43), and a front receiving portion (4371) that allows the end of the outer plate (41) to be introduced in a bent state can be formed at the end of the front support portion (437).

The end of the outer plate (41) located in the front receiving portion (4371) forms a multiple folded portion (411) that is continuously folded multiple times, and the multiple folded portion (411) forms one end of the opening (403). At this time, one end of the opening (403) where the multiple folded portion (411) is located is a portion adjacent to a handle (561) formed in the second side frame (56) of the sub door (50).

The above multi-bending portion (411) is bent at a predetermined incline at a portion forming the front of the main door (40) to form a first bending portion (4111). The inclined surface of the first bending portion (4111) may be formed to face the opening (403), and an end of the first bending portion (4111) forms one end of the opening (403).

And, a second bend portion (4112) is formed at the end of the first bend portion (4111) and is bent in the opposite direction to the first bend portion (4111). And, a third bend portion (4113) is formed at the extended end of the second bend portion (4112) and is bent parallel to the front surface of the main door (40). The second bend portion (4112) and the third bend portion (4113) are positioned on the inner side of the front receiving portion (4371) and can be supported by being in close contact with the front support portion (437).

Accordingly, one end of the opening (403) where the multi-bend portion (411) is formed is the part where the handle (561) of the sub-door (50) is positioned, and the user's hand frequently enters and exits. During the entry and exit process, the user's hand may come into contact with one end of the opening (403), and at this time, the inclined surface of the first bend portion (4111) of the multi-bend portion (411) enables smooth entry and exit without getting caught or scratched. At the same time, the strength can be reinforced by the shape of the multi-bend portion (411), and the outer plate (41) can be prevented from being deformed by impacts, etc., generated during the process of the user's hand frequently entering and exiting.

The above handle (561) forms one side of the sub door (50) and is formed to be long vertically, and may be formed to have a predetermined space between it and one end of the opening (403) so that a user can put his or her hand in and pull it.

Meanwhile, the frame heater (432) and the heater support (435) are formed protrudingly on the back surface of the frame step portion (431) of the door frame (43) to heat the frame step portion and prevent condensation.

Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the sub-door. Fig. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the sub-door as seen from the front. Fig. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the sub-door as seen from the rear.

As illustrated in the drawing, the sub-door (50) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the opening (403). The sub-door (50) may include a panel assembly (54) in which a plurality of glasses are laminated at regular intervals, side frames (55, 56) forming both sides of the sub-door (50), a sub-door liner (59) forming the rear perimeter of the sub-door (50), and an upper cap deco (57) and a lower cap deco (58) forming the upper and lower surfaces of the sub-door (50). The side frames (55, 56), the upper cap deco (57), the lower cap deco (58), and the door liner (59) may be collectively referred to as a second frame (or door frame). In this case, the second frame may have a second opening. The second opening may be covered by the panel assembly.

The above panel assembly (54) forms the entire front surface of the sub-door (50). The panel assembly (54) may be composed of a front panel (541) forming the front exterior and an insulating panel (542) spaced apart from and arranged on the back surface of the front panel (541). The insulating panels (542) may be composed of a plurality of pieces, and a spacer (543) is provided between the front panel (541), the insulating panel (542), and the plurality of insulating panels (542). An insulating space is formed between at least one insulating panel (542) and the front panel (541).

The front panel (541) and the insulation panel (542) are formed of glass or a material that allows for internal viewing, and are configured to selectively allow viewing of the interior of the unit. In addition, the front panel (541) and the insulation panel (542) may have an insulating material or an insulating structure and may be configured to prevent cold air from leaking out of the unit. The configuration of the panel assembly (54) will be examined in more detail below.

The side frames (55, 56) above form the left and right sides of the sub-door (50). The side frames (55, 56) may be formed of a metal material and connect the panel assembly (54) and the door liner (42).

The above side frame (55, 56) may be composed of a first side frame (55) forming one side on which the sub hinge (51, 52) is mounted, and a second side frame (56) on which a handle (561) for the user to rotate is formed.

The first side frame (55) is formed to extend vertically and is configured to connect the upper hinge (51) and the lower hinge (52). In detail, hinge insertion portions (551, 552) into which the upper hinge (51) and the lower hinge (52) are inserted are formed at the upper and lower ends of the first side frame (55). The hinge insertion portions (551, 552) are formed to be recessed into the upper and lower ends of the first side frame (55), and can be formed in a corresponding shape so that a portion of the upper hinge (51) and the lower hinge (52) can be fitted.

The first side frame (55) may be formed of a metal such as aluminum or a high-strength material, and the upper hinge (51) and the lower hinge (52) maintain an accurate mounting position so that the mounting position is not changed by the weight of the sub-door (50). Accordingly, the sub-door (50) can maintain its initial mounting position on the main door (40), and the outer end of the sub-door (50) and the opening (403) of the main door (40) maintain a very close gap while not causing interference during rotation.

The second side frame (56) may be formed of metal or a high-strength material, like the first side frame (55). The second side frame (56) may be formed to extend from the top to the bottom of the sub-door (50), and a recessed handle (561) is formed so that a user can insert his or her hand.

The upper cap deco (57) forms the upper surface of the sub door (50) and connects the upper portions of the first side frame (55) and the second side frame (56). In addition, it is combined with the upper portion of the panel assembly (54) and the upper portion of the sub door liner (59).

And, an upper hinge mounting portion (571) is formed on one end of the upper cap deco (57). The upper hinge mounting portion (571) is recessed so that the upper hinge (51) and the hinge cover (53) can be mounted, and when the hinge cover (53) is mounted, the upper surfaces of the hinge cover (53) and the upper cap deco (57) form the same plane. Since the upper hinge (51) is accommodated in the upper hinge mounting portion (571), the upper hinge mounting portion (571) may also be referred to as an accommodation portion.

The lower cap deco (58) forms the lower surface of the sub door (50) and connects the lower portions of the first side frame (55) and the second side frame (56). In addition, it is combined with the lower portion of the panel assembly (54) and the lower portion of the sub door liner (59).

And, a lower hinge mounting portion (581) is formed on one end of the lower cap deco (58). The lower hinge mounting portion (581) is recessed so that the lower hinge (52) can be mounted. And, a detection device receiving portion (582) in which a second detection device (81) and a knock detection device (82) are mounted is formed on the lower cap deco (58), and the detection device receiving portion (582) can be shielded by a receiving portion cover (583).

The second detection device (81) mounted on the lower cap deco (58) is a device for confirming the proximity of a user, and the knock detection device (82) is a device for detecting a knock operation of the sub-door (50) by a user. The second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) are attached to the back surface of the front panel (541) and may be provided at the lower end of the front panel (541) adjacent to the second side frame (56). The sub-door (50) is selectively made transparent by the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82), thereby allowing the inside of the sub-door (50) to be seen through. The specific structures of the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) will be examined again below.

The above sub-door liner (59) forms the shape of the rear circumference of the sub-door (50) and can be injection-molded with a plastic material. The sub-door liner (59) is combined with the first side frame (55), the second side frame (56), the upper cap deco (57), and the lower cap deco (58). In addition, a foaming liquid is injected into the inner space around the sub-door (50) formed by the sub-door liner (59) to fill an insulating material (not shown), thereby providing an insulating structure around the sub-door (50).

That is, the central portion of the sub-door (50) has an insulating structure formed by an insulating panel (542) constituting the panel assembly (54), and the perimeter of the panel assembly (54) can have an insulating structure formed by the insulating material. The space formed by the front panel and the insulating panel (542) can be referred to as a first insulating space, and the space formed between the panel assembly and the frames can be referred to as a second insulating space.

The above detection device receiving portion (582) can be partitioned from the second insulation space.

A sub-door gasket (591) is provided on the back surface of the sub-door liner (59). The sub-door gasket (591) is configured to come into close contact with the main door (40) when the sub-door (50) is closed. Accordingly, leakage of cold air between the main door (40) and the sub-door (50) can be prevented.

Fig. 20 is a 20-20' cutaway perspective view of Fig. 17. And, Fig. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a panel assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in the drawing, the overall appearance of the sub-door is formed by a panel assembly (54), and a first side frame (55) and a second side frame (56) are joined to both ends of the panel assembly (54). Then, a foam liquid is filled into the space formed by the panel assembly (54), the first side frame (55), and the second side frame (56) to form an insulating material.

The above panel assembly (54) may be configured to include a front panel (541) forming the entire front surface of the sub-door (50), at least one insulation panel (542) arranged at the rear of the front panel (541), and a support bar (543) supporting between the front panel (541), the insulation panel (542), and the plurality of insulation panels (542).

The front panel (541) may be formed of a glass material that allows selective viewing of the interior depending on the light transmittance and reflectance, and may be referred to as a half mirror. The front panel (541) is configured to selectively allow viewing of the rear of the sub-door (50) depending on the on/off of the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49) inside the house.

That is, when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, the light inside the door passes through the front panel (541), making the front panel (541) appear transparent. Accordingly, the interior space behind the sub-door (50) or the storage space formed in the main door (40) can be seen from the outside when the sub-door (50) is closed.

In addition, when the door lighting unit (49) is turned off, light cannot pass through the front panel (541) but is reflected, so that the front panel (541) becomes like a mirror surface. In this state, the internal space behind the sub-door (50) or the storage space formed in the main door (40) cannot be seen from the outside.

A bezel (5411) is formed along the rear perimeter of the front panel (541). The bezel (5411) may be formed so that light cannot pass through, and prevents the side frames (55, 56), the upper cap deco (57), the lower cap deco (58), and the bar (543) that are combined with the front panel (541) from being exposed forward through the front panel (541).

In addition, the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) can be placed on the bezel (5411) formed at the bottom of the front panel (541), and the knock detection device (82) is formed so that it can be covered.

Meanwhile, a transparent portion (5412) may be formed at a position corresponding to the second sensing device (81) of the bezel (5411) formed at the bottom of the front panel (541). The transparent portion may be formed in a shape corresponding to the front of the second sensing device, and the bezel (5411) is not formed by printing.

That is, the bezel (5411) may be printed to have a predetermined width along the perimeter of the front panel (541), excluding the transparent portion (5412). The transparent portion (5412) allows light irradiated from the second detection device (81) to pass through the front panel (541) and be transmitted and received without being interfered by the bezel (5411).

In addition, the front surface of the second sensing device (81) in contact with the transparent portion (5412) may be formed with the same color as the color of the bezel (5411). Therefore, even when the front surface of the second sensing device (81) is exposed by the transparent portion (5412), the transparent portion (5412) area is not easily exposed and can be integrated with the entire front panel (541). In this specification, the transparent portion (5412) may be referred to as a first region, and the bezel (5411) may be referred to as a second region located outside the first region.

At this time, the light transmittance of the second region is smaller than the light transmittance of the first region.

Meanwhile, a first side frame (55) and a second side frame (56) are mounted on the back surface of the front panel (541). The first side frame (55) and the second side frame (56) are each attached to both sides of the back surface of the front panel (541), and can be attached to the inside of the area of the bezel (5411).

In addition, a groove (543) is formed around the back surface of the front panel (541). The groove (543) separates the front panel (541) and the insulation panel (542) from each other, and allows the front panel (541) and the insulation panel (542) to be separated from each other and to be sealed between them.

The above-mentioned joint (543) can also be placed between a plurality of the above-mentioned insulating panels (542). In addition, the front panel (541), the insulating panel (542), and the plurality of joints (543) can be attached to each other by an adhesive, and a sealant is applied so that the space between the front panel (541), the insulating panel (542), and the joints (543) can be maintained in an airtight state.

The above insulation panel (542) may be formed to be smaller in size than the front panel (541) and may be positioned in the inner region of the front panel (541). In addition, the insulation panel (542) is preferably a chemically strengthened glass that is chemically strengthened by immersing the glass in an electrolyte solution at a temperature higher than the glass transition temperature.

In addition, a low-emissivity coating layer may be formed on the rear surface of the insulating panel (542) to reduce heat transfer into the storage room due to radiation. The glass on which the low-emissivity coating layer is formed is called low-E glass, and the low-emissivity coating layer can be formed by depositing silver or the like on the surface of the glass, usually by sputtering.

In addition, the sealed space between the front panel (541) and the insulation panel (542) formed by the above-mentioned joint (543) and the sealed space between the plurality of insulation panels can be formed in a vacuum state to provide insulation.

If necessary, an inert gas such as argon gas may be filled between the sealed space between the front panel (541) and the insulation panel (542) and the sealed space between the plurality of insulation panels (542) for insulation. Inert gases have superior insulation properties compared to general air. For this reason, it is possible to secure insulation performance by forming a predetermined space filled with an inert gas between the front panel (541) and the insulation panel (542) and between the plurality of insulation panels (542).

The above insulation panel (542) may be formed as a single panel and mounted so as to be spaced apart from the front panel (541), and if necessary, it may also be configured so that two or more of the above insulation panels (542) are spaced apart from each other.

Below, we will look at the structure of the front panel (541) having various applicable forms of half-mirror structures.

Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a front panel of a panel assembly.

As illustrated in the drawing, the front panel (541) according to an example may be composed of a glass layer (5413) forming an exterior, a vacuum deposition layer (5414) formed on the back surface of the glass layer (5413), a bezel printing layer (5415) formed on the back surface of the vacuum deposition layer (5414), and a transparent printing layer (5416) forming the entire back surface of the bezel printing layer (5415) and the vacuum deposition layer (5414).

In detail, the glass layer (5413) may be formed of green glass, which is commonly used as transparent glass, and forms the entire surface of the front panel (541). Of course, in addition to the green glass, various other transparent materials such as white glass may be used.

The above vacuum deposition layer (5414) enables the front panel (541) to have characteristics similar to half glass, and a titanium compound (TiO ₂ ) can be formed on the back surface of the glass layer (5413) by vacuum deposition. That is, the vacuum deposition layer (5414) is formed on the entire back surface of the glass layer (5413), and when the door lighting unit (49) is not turned on, light is reflected by the vacuum deposition layer (5414), so that the front panel (541) can appear like a mirror when viewed from the front.

The above bezel printing layer (5415) forms the rear perimeter of the front panel (541), and the bezel (5411) can be formed by the bezel printing layer (5415). The bezel printing layer (5415) is formed so that light does not pass through even when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, and thus can shield the components arranged along the rear perimeter of the front panel (541).

In addition, a transparent printing layer (5416) may be formed on the entire back surface of the front panel (541), including the bezel printing layer (5415) and the vacuum deposition layer (5414). The transparent printing layer (5416) may be formed transparently to allow light to pass through, and protects the front panel (541) from damage during processing of the front panel (541) or the panel assembly (54).

In particular, the transparent printing layer (5416) prevents the vacuum deposition layer (5414) from being damaged. The front panel (541) is configured to have a bar (543) or the like attached thereto for bonding with the insulation panel (542). At this time, the front panel (541) can be manufactured and transported separately from the insulation panel (542), and in the process, if the transparent printing layer (5416) is not present, the vacuum deposition layer (5414) may be damaged, which may cause the function of half glass to be unavailable. In addition, the vacuum deposition layer (5414) may be damaged by oxidation when exposed to air for a long period of time. Therefore, in a structure in which the vacuum deposition layer (5414) is formed on the back surface of the glass layer (5413), the transparent printing layer (5416) is absolutely required.

Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of a front panel of a panel assembly.

As illustrated in the drawing, the front panel (541) according to another example may be composed of a glass layer (5413) forming an exterior, a ceramic printing layer (5417) formed on the front surface of the glass layer (5413), and a bezel printing layer (5415) formed on the back surface of the glass layer (5413).

In detail, the glass layer (5413) is formed of a glass material that allows light transmission and transparency, and so-called dark gray glass that has a slightly dark gray color when transparent can be used.

The dark gray color of the above glass layer (5413) provides a color that allows the texture of the front panel (541) to appear like an actual mirror when the front panel (541) is in a mirror-like state when the door lighting unit (49) is not turned on.

The above ceramic printing layer (5417) is formed over the entire front surface of the glass layer (5413) and can be formed by silkscreen printing using reflective ink capable of reflecting light.

The above reflective ink may be composed of a titanium compound (TiO ₂ ) as a main component, a viscosity-controlling resin, an organic solvent, and additives. Such reflective ink may be formed to have a predetermined viscosity for silk screen printing.

In addition, the ceramic printing layer (5417) can be formed to a thickness of 40 to 400 nm. In addition, the ceramic printing layer (5417) can have a flatness similar to a mirror surface through silkscreen printing using reflective ink, and can be formed like a mirror surface when strengthened by heating.

The ceramic printing layer (5417) is formed separately on the surface of the glass layer (5413) and has a different refractive index from the glass. Therefore, light incident on the front panel (541) from the outside may be partially reflected by the ceramic printing layer (5417) and the remaining partially reflected by the glass layer (5413), and a mirror-like effect may be achieved through the interference effect of the reflected light. That is, by utilizing the interference effect of light reflected at the boundary of media with different refractive indices, the front panel (541) may appear like a mirror when viewed from the outside.

On the other hand, when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, light is irradiated from the inside of the house toward the glass layer (5413), and the light passing through the glass layer (5413) passes through the ceramic printing layer (5417). Therefore, when viewed from the outside of the house, the user can see the front panel (541) as transparent, and can see through the space inside the house.

At this time, the ceramic printing layer (5417) is formed so that the transmittance of the front panel (541) can be approximately 20% to 30%. If the transmittance is less than 20%, the transparency of the front panel (541) is low even when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, making it difficult to identify the space inside the car. In addition, if the transmittance is 30% or more, the space inside the car is visible even when the door lighting unit (49) is turned off, making it impossible to expect a surface effect like glass. Therefore, it is preferable that the transmittance of the front panel (541) be approximately 20% to 30% to best exhibit the effect of a half mirror.

And, the ceramic printing layer (5417) is strengthened by heating at a predetermined temperature to form a surface having high brightness like a mirror surface, and through heating, organic components are completely removed and a titanium compound (TiO ₂ ) is fired on the surface of the glass layer (5413).

Meanwhile, when the front panel (541) is heated after printing the ceramic printing layer (5417) by the silkscreen printing, it is preferable to heat it at a high temperature so that the organic component of the reflective ink can be completely removed and the titanium compound can be fired. However, if it is heated at an excessive temperature, warping may occur, so it is preferable to heat it within a range in which the surface is not deformed. In addition, the front panel (541) can be heated in stages at different temperatures to remove the organic component and fire the titanium compound.

In addition, the bezel printing layer (5415) forms the rear perimeter of the front panel (541), and the bezel (5411) can be formed by the bezel printing layer (5415). The bezel printing layer (5415) is formed so that light does not pass through even when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, and can shield the components arranged along the rear perimeter of the front panel (541).

Meanwhile, the bezel printing layer (5415) may be formed by an inorganic printing method (primary printing). The bezel printing layer (5415) may be printed using a ceramic pigment mixed with glass powder (Frit), inorganic pigment, and oil as the main components. Therefore, the bezel printing layer (5415) is formed by heating during the glass strengthening process, whereby the resin is decomposed and volatilized, and the glass powder melts to surround the pigment and adhere to the surface of the glass layer.

This inorganic printing method has a low film thickness and high durability compared to conventional organic printing methods. In addition, the glass component can be melted and formed into an integral part with the glass layer (5413), thereby reducing heat loss during double-layer processing with an additional insulating panel (542) and also offering excellent adhesion.

Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of a front panel of a panel assembly.

As illustrated in the drawing, the front panel (541) according to another example may be composed of a glass layer (5413) forming an exterior, a hard coating layer (5418) formed on the front surface of the glass layer (5413), and a bezel printing layer (5415) formed on the back surface of the glass layer (5413).

In detail, the glass layer (5413) is formed of a glass material that allows light transmission and transparency, and so-called gray glass that has a slightly gray (dark gray) color when transparent can be used.

The gray glass at this time has a somewhat lighter color than the dark gray glass in the example described above, and this difference can be attributed to the difference between the ceramic printing layer (5417) and the hard coating layer (5418) formed on the glass layer (5413).

The gray color of the above glass layer (5413) provides a color that allows the texture of the front panel (541) to appear like an actual mirror when the front panel (541) is in a mirror-like state when the door lighting unit (49) is not turned on.

The above hard coating layer (5418) is formed over the entire front surface of the glass layer (5413), and is formed to have a light transmittance of 25-50% and a reflectance of 45-65% so as to have the characteristics of a half mirror, thereby allowing the transmittance and reflectance to be increased simultaneously.

The hard coating layer (5418) described above may be formed to a thickness of approximately 30 to 80 nm and may be composed of three layers of iron, cobalt, and chrome. Of course, one or two of the three layers may be omitted, taking into account transmittance, reflectance, and color difference.

In addition, such a hard coating layer (5418) may be formed by an atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition (APCAVD) method that forms a vaporized coating material on the entire surface of the glass layer (5413), or may be formed by a spray method that sprays a liquid coating material.

The hard coating layer (5418) is formed separately on the surface of the glass layer (5413) and has a different refractive index from the glass layer (5413). Therefore, light incident on the front panel (541) from the outside is partially reflected by the hard coating layer (5418), and the remaining partially reflected by the glass layer (5413). Accordingly, the front panel (541) can have a mirror-like effect due to the interference effect of the reflected light. That is, by utilizing the interference effect of light reflected at the boundary of media with different refractive indices, the front panel (541) can appear like a mirror when viewed from the outside.

On the other hand, when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, light is irradiated from the inside of the house toward the glass layer (5413), and the light passing through the glass layer (5413) passes through the hard coating layer (5418). Therefore, when viewed from the outside of the house, the user can see the front panel (541) as transparent, and can see through the space inside the house.

The hard coating layer (5418) is formed so that the transmittance of the front panel (541) can be approximately 20% to 30%. If the transmittance is less than 20%, the transparency of the front panel (541) is low even when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, making it difficult to identify the space inside the car. In addition, if the transmittance is 30% or more, the space inside the car is visible even when the door lighting unit (49) is turned off, making it impossible to expect a surface effect like glass. Therefore, it is preferable that the transmittance of the front panel (541) be approximately 20% to 30% to best exhibit the effect of a half mirror.

The above bezel printing layer (5415) forms the rear perimeter of the front panel (541), and the bezel (5411) can be formed by the bezel printing layer (5415). The bezel printing layer (5415) is formed so that light does not transmit even when the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, so that the components arranged along the rear perimeter of the front panel (541) can be shielded. The bezel printing layer (5415) can be formed by an inorganic printing method.

Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross section of the above sub-door.

As illustrated in the drawing, side frames (55, 56) are provided on both sides of the panel assembly (54). The side frames (55, 56) can be attached and fixed to the front panel and are combined with the sub-door liner to form a space in which the insulation material is accommodated, thereby insulating the perimeter of the sub-door (50).

The second side frame (56) is formed at a position facing the first side frame (55) and may be configured to form another side of the sub door (50). In addition, a first front bending portion (553) and a first rear bending portion (554) may be formed at both ends of the first side frame (55).

The first front bending portion (553) is formed by bending so as to be in contact with the back surface of the front panel (541) and can extend to the position of the gap (543). Accordingly, the temperature of the outside of the sub-door (50) can be transmitted to the back surface of the front panel (541) along the first side frame (55) made of a metal material, and thus condensation can be prevented on one side of the front panel (541) that is in contact with the first front bending portion (553).

In addition, a first heater mounting groove (5531) in which a sub-door heater (502) is mounted is further formed in the first side frame (55). The first heater mounting groove (5531) is formed at an end of the first front bending portion (553) so that the sub-door heater (502) can be placed at a position adjacent to the gap (543). Accordingly, the sub-door heater (502) can be arranged lengthwise in the vertical direction along the first side frame (55). In addition, due to the characteristics of the first side frame (55) formed of a metal material, the back surface of the front panel (541) in contact with the first front bending portion (553) is heated, thereby preventing condensation from occurring on the front panel (541).

The first rear bending portion (554) is bent at the rear end of the first side frame (55) and is combined with the sub-door liner (59). At this time, the first rear bending portion (554) is configured to support the sub-door liner (59), and can be configured to support a load transmitted through the sub-door gasket (591) when the sub-door (50) is closed.

The second side frame (56) is provided at a position facing the first side frame (55) and may be configured to form another side of the sub door (50). The second side frame (56) is formed so as to be positioned adjacent to one side of the opening (403) of the main door (40). In addition, a second front bending portion (562) and a second rear bending portion (563) may be formed at both ends of the second side frame (56).

The second front bending portion (562) extends from the end of the second side frame (56) and is recessed to form a handle (561) so that a user can insert a hand therein. The handle (561) may be formed in a shape that is recessed toward the side of the panel assembly (54). Therefore, when viewed from the front, the handle (561) is not exposed, and only a portion of the second side frame (56) may be exposed forward.

In addition, the second front bending portion (562) may be formed to form the handle (561) and extend from one end of the second side frame (56) to contact the back surface of the front panel (541). Accordingly, the temperature of the outside of the sub-door (50) may be transmitted to the back surface of the front panel (541) along the second side frame (56) made of a metal material, and thus condensation may be prevented on one side of the front panel (541) that contacts the second front bending portion (562).

In detail, the second front bending portion (562) may be formed to be sunken toward the front panel (541) from an outer side thereof, and the sunken end may be formed to be sunken further inward than the outer end of the front panel (541). In addition, the second front bending portion (562) is positioned at the rear of the front panel (541), so that a user can rotate the sub-door (50) by inserting a hand into the inner side of the handle (561) formed by the second front bending portion (562).

In addition, a second heater mounting groove (5621) in which a sub-door heater (502) is mounted is further formed in the second front bending portion (562). The second heater mounting groove (5621) allows the sub-door heater (502) to be positioned adjacent to the gap (543). Accordingly, the sub-door heater (502) can be arranged lengthwise in the vertical direction along the second side frame (56). In addition, due to the characteristics of the second side frame (56) formed of a metal material, the back surface of the front panel in contact with the second front bending portion (562) can be heated to prevent condensation from occurring on the front panel (541).

The inner side of the second front bending portion (562) that comes into contact with the front panel (541) may be formed to be rounded to facilitate the user's grip and easy forward pulling.

Meanwhile, the second rear bending portion (563) is bent at the rear end of the second side frame (56) and is combined with the sub-door liner (59). At this time, the second rear bending portion (563) is configured to support the sub-door liner (59), and can be configured to support a load transmitted through the sub-door gasket (591) when the sub-door (50) is closed.

Fig. 26 is an exploded perspective view showing the upper hinge joint structure of the sub-door. And, Fig. 27 is a partial perspective view showing the upper hinge mounted.

As illustrated in the drawing, a sunken upper hinge mounting portion (571) may be formed on the upper cap deco (57) of the sub door (50) so that an upper hinge (51) and a hinge cover (53) may be mounted thereon. The upper hinge mounting portion (571) may be formed on the upper end of the upper cap deco (57) and may be formed to be connected to the adjacent first side frame (55).

That is, the hinge insertion portion (551) at the top of the first side frame (55) and the upper hinge mounting portion (571) of the upper cap deco (57) can be connected to each other, and thus the upper hinge (51) can be mounted at the corner of the sub-door (50) where the upper hinge mounting portion (571) and the hinge insertion portion (551) are connected. In addition, although not shown, the lower cap deco (58) at the bottom of the sub-door (50) may also have the lower hinge (52) mounted at the corner of the sub-door (50) with the same structure.

The upper hinge mounting portion (571) is formed with a hinge receiving portion (5711) that is sunken in a shape corresponding to the upper hinge (51). In addition, a hinge fixing hole (5712) is formed in the hinge receiving portion (5711) to which a screw penetrating the upper hinge (51) is fastened.

And, a wire guide part (5714) and a wire hole (5713) through which a wire (L) arranged in the upper hinge (51) enters and exits may be formed on one side of the upper hinge mounting part (571). The wire (L) guided through the wire guide part (5714) is connected to the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) provided in the sub-door (50), and is guided to the upper cap deco (57) through the lower cap deco (58) and the second side frame (56). And, the wire is introduced into the wire guide part (5714) through the wire hole (5713) formed in the upper hinge mounting part (571), and can be guided to the outside of the sub-door (50) through the wire guide part (5714). The wire (L) guided along the wire guide (5714) is guided in the direction in which the upper hinge (51) extends, and is introduced into the inside of the main door (40) through the hinge hole (433) of the main door (40) together with one side of the upper hinge (51).

Meanwhile, the upper hinge (51) is fixedly mounted to the upper hinge mounting portion (571) by a screw, and may be composed of a door mounting portion (511) fixed to the sub door (50) and a rotational coupling portion (512) rotatably coupled to the main door (40).

In addition, the door mounting portion (511) may be composed of a horizontal portion (5111) fixed to the upper hinge mounting portion (571) and a vertical portion (5112) fixed to the hinge insertion portion (551) of the first side frame (55). The horizontal portion (5111) and the vertical portion (5112) are formed perpendicular to each other so that the upper hinge (51) can be maintained in a state of being fixed to the upper edge of the sub door (50).

The above-mentioned rotational coupling portion (512) extends from the end of the horizontal portion (5111) and may be formed to extend to the outside of the sub-door (50). The above-mentioned rotational coupling portion (512) may be formed in a shape that is bent in one direction, and a hinge axis (5121) may be formed at the extended end. The above-mentioned hinge axis (5121) is formed to extend downward from the plate-shaped rotational coupling portion (512).

And, a cut portion (5122) is formed in the rotational coupling portion (512) so that the rotational coupling portion (512) is formed in a shape in which the rotational coupling portion (512) is bent laterally. The cut portion (5122) is formed by being recessed inward from one side where the hinge axis (5121) is formed. And, the rotational coupling portion (512) can be cut roundly in the rotational radius direction of the sub-door (50) when the sub-door (50) is opened and closed. Therefore, when the sub-door (50) is rotated to open while the upper hinge (51) is coupled to the main door (40), one end of the door frame (43) forming the hinge hole (433) is inserted into the inside of the cut portion (5122).

In addition, a frame (5123) may be formed along the outer end of the rotational joint (512) to prevent deformation of the rotational joint (512) and to reinforce strength. The frame (5123) may be formed to extend in a direction that intersects perpendicularly with the rotational joint (512).

In addition, a stopper (5124) may be further formed at one end of the rotational joint (512). The stopper (5124) is formed on one side of the rotational joint (512) adjacent to the hinge shaft (5121), and extends downward to interfere with one side of the hinge hole (433) or the main door (40) when the sub-door (50) is rotated to be fully opened, thereby preventing the sub-door (50) from being opened any further.

The above hinge cover (53) is formed so as to shield the opening of the upper hinge mounting portion (571) and simultaneously shield the upper hinge (51) from above. The hinge cover (53) may be composed of a capdeco shielding portion (531) that shields the upper hinge mounting portion (571) and a hinge shielding portion (532) that shields the rotational coupling portion (512) of the upper hinge (51).

The above cap deco shield (531) has a shape corresponding to the upper hinge mounting portion (571), and a plurality of screw holes (5311) are formed so that screws can be directly fastened to the upper cap deco (57), or a screw penetrating the door mounting portion (511) can be formed so that it can be inserted and removed.

The hinge shield (532) may be formed to extend along the shape of the rotational coupling portion (512) of the upper hinge (51), and may be formed to surround the rotational coupling portion (512) from above. In addition, the hinge shield (532) may be positioned to be somewhat spaced apart from the rotational coupling portion (512) to form a space between the rotational coupling portion (512), and the wire (L) passing through the wire guide portion (5714) may be guided through the space between the hinge shield (532) and the rotational coupling portion (512).

Figure 28 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the joint structure of the upper hinge.

As shown in the drawing, the upper hinge (51) is fixedly mounted to the upper hinge mounting portion (571) of the upper cap deco (57) and has a structure that is shielded by the hinge cover (53).

And, when the sub door (50) is mounted on the main door (40), the upper hinge (51) is inserted into the inside of the hinge hole (433), and the rotational coupling part (512) of the upper hinge (51) is located on the inside of the main door (40).

In this state, the hinge shaft (5121) of the upper hinge (51) can be inserted into the shaft mounting portion (438) of the main door (40). The shaft mounting portion (438) may be fixed to the inside of the main door (40) by a separate member, or may be formed integrally with the door frame (43) constituting the main door (40). The shaft mounting portion (438) forms a space into which the hinge shaft (5121) can be inserted, and is configured so that the rotational axis can rotate while being inserted into the shaft mounting portion (438).

And, when the sub-door (50) is rotated to open the sub-door (50) while the upper hinge (51) is coupled to the main door (40), the upper hinge (51) also rotates according to the rotation of the sub-door (50), and at this time, the side end of the hinge hole (433) is inserted into the inside of the cut-out (5122) of the upper hinge (51) to avoid interference.

Due to the structure of the upper hinge (51) as described above, when the sub-door (50) is closed, the sub-door (50) can be rotatably arranged inside the opening (403) of the main door (40). In addition, since the upper hinge (51) extends laterally and is rotatably coupled inside the main door (40), the upper hinge (51) does not interfere when the sub-door (50) is closed. Accordingly, the outer surface of the sub-door (50) and the inner surface of the opening (403) can be formed very closely, and even when the sub-door (50) is rotated, the stable support structure by the upper hinge (51) prevents the sub-door (50) from sagging or deforming.

In addition, the wire (L) introduced through the wire guide portion (5714) of the upper cap deco (57) can be guided to the inside of the main door (40) through the hinge shield portion (532) of the hinge cover (53) and the hinge hole (433). Therefore, even during the rotation process of the sub door (50), the wire (L) can be guided to the inside of the main door (40) while being shielded by the hinge cover (53) without being exposed to the outside.

Fig. 29 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the joint structure of the lower hinge of the above sub-door.

As shown in the drawing, the lower hinge (52) has the same structure as the upper hinge (51), and has a structure in which only the bent direction is bent upward. In order to mount the lower hinge (52), the lower hinge mounting portion (581) is recessed into the lower cap deco (58), and the lower hinge (52) can be fixedly mounted to the lower hinge mounting portion (581) and the hinge insertion portion (552) of the first side frame (55). That is, the lower hinge (52) has a structure in which it is fixedly mounted to the lower edge of the sub door (50).

Meanwhile, the upper hinge (51) and the lower hinge (52) are each inserted and fixed by the first side frame (55). The first side frame (55) is formed of a metal material, and thus stably supports the upper hinge (51) and the lower hinge (52), so that the sub-door (50) has a stable fixing structure without sagging or deformation even in an environment where a load is applied. In addition, due to this, the space between the sub-door (50) and the main door (40) can be designed to be very narrow, thereby making the exterior more attractive.

The lower hinge (52) may be composed of a door mounting portion (521) that is fixedly mounted to the lower hinge mounting portion (581) by a screw and a rotational coupling portion (522) that is rotatably coupled to the main door (40).

The door mounting portion (521) may be composed of a horizontal portion (5211) fixed to the lower hinge mounting portion (581) and a vertical portion (5212) fixed to the hinge insertion portion (552) of the first side frame (55). In addition, the rotational coupling portion (522) extends from the end of the horizontal portion (5211) to pass through the hinge hole (433) of the main door (40), and a hinge axis (5221) is formed at one end of the extension.

The above hinge shaft (5221) can be inserted into the shaft mounting portion (439) inside the main door (40), and the lower hinge (52) is rotatably coupled. In addition, a cut portion (5222) is formed in the rotation coupling portion (522), so that one end of the hinge hole (433) can be inserted when the sub door (50) rotates. In addition, a stopper (5224) that restricts the rotation of the sub door (50) can be further formed in the rotation coupling portion (522).

In this way, the sub-door (50) can be rotatably mounted on the main door (40) by means of an upper hinge (51) and a lower hinge (52) extending laterally from the upper and lower sides of one side, and the panel assembly (54) is provided so that the sub-door (50), which is relatively heavy, can be stably fixed inside the opening (403).

Fig. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the second detection device and knock detection device combination structure of the sub-door as viewed from the front. And, Fig. 31 is an exploded perspective view of the second detection device and knock detection device combination structure of the sub-door as viewed from below.

As shown in the drawing, a second detection device (81) and a knock detection device (82) may be provided at the bottom of the sub-door (50). The second detection device (81) is for detecting the user's position and confirming whether the user is standing in front of the refrigerator (1) to operate the refrigerator (1).

And, the second detection device (81) can be positioned vertically on the same extension line as the first detection device (31). And, the height at which the second detection device (81) is installed is the lower end of the sub-door (50), so that detection is possible for a general adult, but detection is not possible for a small child, an animal, or other objects lower than the height of the second detection device (81).

In addition, the knock detection device (82) is configured to recognize whether the user has knocked on the front panel (541) of the sub-door (50). A specific operation of the refrigerator (1) can be instructed by the knock operation detected by the knock detection device (82). For example, the door lighting unit (49) can be turned on by the user's knock operation, thereby making the sub-door (50) transparent.

The above knock detection device (82) may be positioned closer to the boundary line between the first region and the second region than to the end of the second region of the front panel.

The specific structures of the second detection device (81) and knock detection device (82) will be examined in more detail below.

A lower hinge (52) can be mounted on the lower cap deco (58) forming the lower surface of the sub door (50), and a detection device receiving portion (582) is recessed and formed on one side away from the lower hinge (52), that is, on one side adjacent to the second side frame (56).

The above-mentioned detection device receiving portion (582) is formed to a size capable of receiving the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82). In addition, the opened lower surface of the detection device receiving portion (582) can be shielded by a receiving portion cover (583).

On one side of the receiving portion cover (583), a case fixing portion (481) is formed to which a screw is fastened for fixing the receiving portion cover (583) to the lower cap deco (58). In addition, an injection port cover portion (5831) is further formed on the other side of the receiving portion cover (583). The injection port cover portion (5831) is formed on the lower cap deco (58) so as to shield the first injection port (5824) into which the foaming liquid filled for forming the insulating material (501) is injected. In addition, a plurality of hook portions (5832) are formed on the upper surface of the injection port cover portion (5831) so as to be press-fitted into the inside of the first injection port (5824). Accordingly, the injection port cover part (5831) is press-fitted into the first injection port (5824), the case fixing part (481) is fixed to the lower cap deco (58) by a screw, and the entire receiving portion cover (583) is fixedly mounted to the lower cap deco (58).

When the above-mentioned receiving portion cover (583) is mounted on the lower cap deco (58), the sensing device receiving portion (582) can be shielded, and at the same time, the first injection port (5824) can be shielded.

In addition, a PCB mounting portion (5833) is further formed on the upper surface of the receiving portion cover (583). A PCB mounting portion (5833) is mounted with a PCB mounting portion (83) for signal processing of the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82). The PCB mounting portion (83) is connected to the second detection device (81) and/or the knock detection device (82) and can be mounted on the PCB mounting portion (5833).

The above detection device PCB (83) is capable of processing the signal of the second detection device (81) and/or the knock detection device (82), and is configured to be positioned adjacent to the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) so as to process the signal.

When the signal processing PCB is located at a long distance, there is a problem that noise generated when the detected signal moves through the signal line to be processed may increase. However, by arranging the detection device PCB (83) together with the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) at the same location, the main control unit (2) receives only whether a valid knock-on signal is input. Through this, the influence of noise caused by the signal line between the main control unit (2) and the detection device PCB (83) can be minimized. That is, the main control unit (2) receives a signal with minimized noise through the detection device PCB (83). Therefore, it is possible to secure an accurate recognition rate.

In particular, in the case of the knock detection device (82), the signal output by the microphone (8211) is in the mV unit, whereas the main control unit (2) that controls the overall operation of the refrigerator generally receives a signal in the V unit. Therefore, due to the difference in the scale of these physical signals, it is not desirable for the main control unit (2) to determine whether it is a normal knock-on signal.

Refrigerators are electronic devices that use high voltage and current. Therefore, they generate relatively large amounts of electrical noise. This means that the millivolt (mV) signal output by the microphone (8211) may be more susceptible to electrical noise.

Therefore, by placing the detection device PCB (83) adjacent to the knock detection device (82), a significant reduction in noise and an improvement in recognition rate are possible.

Meanwhile, a second injection port (584) into which a foaming liquid is injected is further formed on one side of the lower cap deco (58) adjacent to the lower hinge (52), and the second injection port (584) can be shielded by a separate injection port cover (5841). In addition, a plurality of hook portions (5842) are formed on the upper surface of the injection port cover (5841) so that the injection port cover (5841) can be pressed into the inside of the second injection port (584).

On the bottom surface of the above detection device receiving portion (582), a first boss (5821) to which a screw for fixing the second detection device (81) is fastened and a second boss (5822) for fixing the knock detection device (82) are respectively formed.

In addition, a wire hole (5823) is formed on one side of the sensing device receiving portion (582). The wire (L) connected to the sensing device PCB (83), the second sensing device (81), and the knock sensing device (82) can be guided to the outside of the sub-door (50) through the wire hole (5823).

Meanwhile, a through-hole (5823) may be formed on the front of the detection device receiving portion (582) that comes into contact with the front panel (541) so that the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) can be brought into close contact with the front panel (541).

Fig. 32 is an exploded perspective view of the knock detection device. Fig. 33 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 33-33' of Fig. 17. Fig. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the microphone module of the knock detection device.

Looking at the structure of the knock detection device (82) in detail with reference to the drawing, the knock detection device (82) may be configured to include a microphone module (821) that detects a knock-on signal, a holder (823) that accommodates the microphone module (821), an elastic member (824) that presses and adheres the holder (823) and the microphone module (821) toward the front panel (541), and a support member (825) that supports the elastic member (824) and the holder (823).

The above microphone module (821) includes a microphone (8211) that directly senses sound waves and a microphone receiving portion (8212) that receives the microphone (8211). The microphone (8211) directly senses sound waves, is formed in a circular shape with a predetermined thickness, and is fixedly mounted inside the microphone module (821). One side of the microphone (8211) may be a sound wave receiving portion (8213) that receives sound waves, and the sound wave receiving portion (8213) is arranged to face the opening (8214) of the microphone receiving portion (8212). In addition, a signal line (8216) is connected to the other side of the microphone (8211), and the signal line (8216) can be connected to the sensing device PCB (83).

The above microphone receiving portion (8212) is formed of an elastic material such as rubber, and is formed so as to be in close contact with the front panel (541). To this end, an opening (8214) is formed on one side of the microphone receiving portion (8212) adjacent to the microphone (8211) mounted inside the microphone receiving portion (8212), and a circular protrusion (8215) may be formed around the opening (8214). In addition, the protrusion (8215) prevents the microphone receiving portion (8212) from tilting in one direction when it is in close contact with the front panel (541) and ensures that the opened front surface of the opening portion (403) remains in close contact with the front panel (541) as a whole.

A predetermined sealed space can be formed between the opening (8214) that is pressed against the protrusion (8215) and the sound wave receiving unit (8213). Accordingly, the front of the sealed space is sealed against the medium, i.e., the front panel (541). Accordingly, vibration transmitted through the inside of the medium vibrates the air within the predetermined space, and sound waves generated by this vibration can be received by the microphone (8211).

This seal minimizes external noise and vibration from entering the designated space. This significantly reduces knock-on detection errors and malfunctions due to external noise, and ensures highly accurate knock-on recognition. In other words, the accuracy of identifying a knock-on input as a knock-on event can be dramatically increased.

The holder (823) accommodates the microphone module (821), and a module mounting portion (8231) that is open toward the front panel (541) may be formed. The microphone module (821) may be formed such that at least the protrusion (8215) protrudes further than the front surface of the holder (823) when mounted on the module mounting portion (8231).

In addition, a holder slot (8232) is formed in the holder (823) through which the signal line connected to the microphone (8211) enters and exits. The holder slot (8232) is formed to be open on one side of the module mounting portion (8231).

In addition, a first elastic member fixing portion (8233) is formed on the back surface of the holder (823) to protrude so that the elastic member (824) is fixedly mounted. The first elastic member fixing portion (8233) may be formed to extend so as to penetrate one end of the coil-shaped elastic member (824).

In addition, on both sides of the holder (823), a holder coupling portion (8234) is formed in a hook shape and coupled with the support member (825). The holder (823) is coupled to the support member (825) by the holder coupling portion (8234) so that it cannot be removed. In addition, due to the hook shape of the holder coupling portion (8234), the holder (823) is not restricted from moving in the direction of insertion into the inside of the support member (825).

The above support member (825) is formed so that the front is open, and is formed so that the holder (823) can be inserted through the opened front. In addition, a second elastic member fixing portion (8251) protruding so that the elastic member (824) is fixedly mounted may be formed on the inside of the holder (823). The second elastic member fixing portion (8251) is positioned on the same extension line as the first elastic member fixing portion (8233) and is inserted so as to penetrate one end of the elastic member (824).

Accordingly, even if the elastic member (824) is compressed to pressurize the holder (823), the elastic member (824) can stably pressurize the holder (823) toward the front panel (541) without buckling.

By the elastic member (824), the microphone module (821) is maintained in close contact with the front panel (541), and in particular, even when the main door (40) and the sub door (50) are opened and closed or when the main door (40) and the sub door (50) rotate, the microphone module (821) is able to maintain a state of always being in close contact with the front panel (541) without changing its position due to the impact generated.

A support member slot (8252) may be formed on one side of the support member (825). The support member slot (8252) may be formed on the same extension line as the holder slot (8232). Accordingly, a signal line passing through the holder slot (8232) may pass through the support member slot (8252) and be connected to the detection device PCB (83).

A support member fixing portion (8253) is formed on the other side of the support member (825). The support member fixing portion (8253) is formed to extend outward and is seated on a second boss (5822) protruding from the detection device receiving portion (582). Then, the screw penetrates the screw hole (8254) of the support member fixing portion (8253) and is fastened to the second boss (5822), so that the support member (825) is fixedly mounted on the lower cap deco (58).

Meanwhile, the knock detection device (82) is mounted in the bezel (5411) area of the front panel (541), so that the knock detection device (82) does not appear externally when viewed from the outside of the front panel (541).

The knock detection device (82) is positioned at the edge of the front panel (541), but the effective input portion of the user's knock operation is not limited thereto. Due to the characteristics of the microphone (8211) that detects sound waves caused by vibration rather than the vibration itself, in an environment in close contact with a medium, no matter where the knock operation is performed, the sound waves are transmitted through the same continuous medium, so that the knock operation can be effectively detected. Therefore, the position of the knock detection device (82) can be arranged in a way that maximizes the layout of the wires and the visualization area of the sub-door (50). At the same time, no matter where the user performs the knock operation on the front panel (541), detection is possible through the microphone (8211) that is in close contact with the same medium.

In detail, the area where the user applies a knock input may be the entire area defined by the front surface of the front panel (541). In addition, most of the front panel (541), excluding the border portion, is a see-through area that is substantially selectively transparent, so that the knock-on detection device cannot be placed therein.

Accordingly, it is preferable that the knock detection device (82) be located in the bezel (5411) area of the front panel (541). In particular, positioning it at the bottom rather than the left and right sides of the front panel (541) can be a way to minimize the bezel on the left and right sides and the top of the front panel (541). By the shape of the bezel (5411) as described above, the see-through area can be expanded, and by being positioned at the bottom part where the user's line of sight is relatively small, the see-through area can be seen more widely to the user.

The above knock detection device (82) is located in the area of the bezel (5411) so as not to be exposed to the outside, but has a structure that is in close contact with the front panel (541), so that the user can detect the user's knock no matter where the user knocks on the front panel (541).

Meanwhile, in addition to the knock operation, there may be many environmental factors that apply vibration to the front surface of the front panel (541). The front surface of the sub-door (50) may vibrate due to impact caused by opening and closing the main door (40) and sub-door (50), strong external noise, etc., and such inputs due to the external environment may be judged as knock signals.

Accordingly, the above detection device PCB (83) can be configured to determine that a user knocking on the front of the sub-door (50) multiple times is a normal knock input. More specifically, knocking multiple times at predetermined time intervals can be determined as a normal knock input.

For example, if a user knocks twice on the front of the sub-door (50) within a given period of time, it can be determined as a normal knock input. Analysis of a typical user's knocking pattern reveals that the interval between the first and second knocks is less than approximately 600 ms. That is, considering that 1 second (s) is 1000 ms, a first and second knock occurring with an interval of less than 1 second can be determined as a normal knock input.

Therefore, by setting these time intervals, it is possible to significantly prevent abnormal inputs from being mistaken for knock signals.

Meanwhile, the intensity of the knock may vary from user to user. However, because the medium is the same, this intensity variation can be large, but the vibration pattern variation is very small. Therefore, the knock intensity variation can be compensated for through an algorithm, and the knock input pattern and the time interval between knocks can be used as factors to effectively recognize normal knock input.

Conversely, this means that abnormal inputs can be significantly reduced from being recognized as knock inputs.

Figure 35 is an exploded perspective view showing the coupling structure of the second sensing device. Figure 36 is a partial perspective view showing the second sensing device mounted.

As shown in the drawing, the second detection device (81) is located inside the detection device receiving portion (582) and may be located on the side of the knock detection device (82).

The second sensing device (81) is a device for detecting the proximity of a user, and a Position Sensing Device (PSD) may be used. That is, the second sensing device (81) is configured to include a light emitting unit (811) and a light receiving unit (812), and is configured to recognize the position of the user by emitting infrared rays from the light emitting unit (811) and measuring the angle of the reflected light from the light receiving unit (812). The proximity distance detectable by the PSD can be set, and the second sensing device (81) sets the detectable distance to within 1 m so that when the user is positioned within 1 m of the front of the refrigerator (1), the device can recognize that the user is positioned in front of the refrigerator (1) for operation.

The mounting position of the second detection device (81) is, like the knock detection device (82), at the lower end of the sub-door (50) located upward, and this position corresponds to a height of approximately 1 m above the ground, so that small children or other low objects are not detected.

A pressure member (813) may be further provided at the rear of the second detection device (81). The pressure member (813) is configured to not only fix the second detection device (81) to the detection device receiving portion (582), but also to apply pressure so that the second detection device (81) can be brought into close contact with the front panel (541).

In detail, the pressure member (813) is formed with a detection device fixing portion (8131) that is fixed to the rear surface of the second detection device (81). The detection device fixing portion (8131) is coupled to both ends of the second detection device (81) so that the pressure member (813) and the second detection device fixing portion (8131) can be integrally coupled.

And, an elastic part (8132) that protrudes rearwardly in a round shape is formed between the fixing parts (8131) of the sensing device. The elastic part (8132) can be elastically deformed by pressure, and when the second sensing device (81) is mounted, the end of the protruding elastic part (8132) is elastically deformed by being in close contact with the wall surface of the sensing device receiving part (582). Therefore, the second sensing device (81) can be in close contact toward the front panel (541) by the elastic restoring force of the elastic part (8132). Accordingly, the light emitting part (811) and the light receiving part (812) of the second sensing device (81) can be completely in close contact with the back surface of the front panel (541).

At this time, the front of the second detection device (81) passes through the penetration portion (5823) of the front of the detection device receiving portion (582), and can be placed in the area of the transparent portion (5412) formed transparently in the bezel (5411).

Accordingly, the second sensing device (81) has a structure that is actually exposed to the outside through the transparent portion (5412), but the second sensing device (81) is formed in black or dark gray, so that it has a color that is the same as or similar to the color of the front panel (541) having the half-mirror structure, so that it is not easily visible when viewed from the outside.

That is, the light irradiated by the second detection device (81) is prevented from being interfered with by the bezel (5411), while the second detection device (81) is prevented from being prominently exposed when viewed from the outside, thereby hindering the appearance.

Meanwhile, a pressure member fixing portion (8133) is formed on one side of the pressure member (813). The pressure member fixing portion (8133) is formed to extend outward and is seated on the first boss (5821) protruding from the detection device receiving portion (582). Then, the screw penetrates the screw hole (8134) of the pressure member fixing portion (8133) and is fastened to the first boss (5821), so that the pressure member (813) is fixedly mounted on the lower cap deco (58).

Figure 37 is a drawing showing the wire layout inside the sub door.

As shown in the drawing, the sub-door (50) has the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) assembled, and the detection device receiving portion (582) is shielded by the receiving portion cover (583). At this time, the detection device PCB (83) is mounted on the inner surface of the receiving portion cover (583), and the wire (L) connected to the second detection device (81), the knock detection device (82), and the detection device receiving portion (582) is guided to the outside of the detection device receiving portion (582) through the wire hole (5823).

In the above sub-door (50), a space is provided in which the insulating material (501) is formed on the outer perimeter of the panel assembly (54), that is, the inner area of the upper cap deco (57), the lower cap deco (58), and the first side frame (55) and the second side frame (56).

Accordingly, before the injection of the foaming liquid for forming the insulating material (501), an empty space is formed, and the wire (L) entering and exiting through the wire hole (5823) of the sensing device receiving portion (582) can be guided along the space formed by the second side frame (56) and the upper cap deco (57).

And, the wire (L) is introduced into the upper hinge mounting portion (571) through the wire hole (5713) of the upper hinge mounting portion (571), and the wire (L) can be covered by the hinge cover (53). And, the wire (L) is guided to the inside of the main door (40) through the space between the hinge cover (53) and the upper hinge (51), and is not exposed to the outside even during the rotation process of the sub door (50).

Meanwhile, the first injection port (5824) and the second injection port (584) are formed in the lower cap deco (58), and can be shielded by the injection port cover part (5831) and the injection port cover (5841) formed in the receiving portion cover (583), respectively.

The first injection port (5824) is positioned on the side of the sensor receiving portion (582) and may be formed at a position adjacent to the second side frame (56). The first injection port (5824) is formed as far outside as possible, and is formed at a point where at least a portion overlaps the space between the panel assembly (54) and the second side frame (56), so that it is easy to inject the foaming liquid between the panel assembly (54) and the second side frame (56). However, since interference may occur due to the shape of the handle (561) formed on the second side frame (56), the first injection port (5824) may be positioned as far outside as possible.

In addition, a foam guide portion (585) may be formed on the inside of the lower cap deco (58) to be rounded and directed toward the second side frame (56) from the inside of the first injection port (5824). Accordingly, when the foam is injected through the first injection port (5824), the foam can naturally flow into the space between the second side frame (56) and the panel assembly (54).

The second injection port (584) is formed on the lower cap deco (58) adjacent to the lower hinge mounting portion (581). The second injection port is positioned so as to avoid interference with the lower hinge mounting portion (581). At this time, the second injection port (584) may be formed at a position that is spaced laterally further than the area of the space formed between the first side frame (55) and the panel assembly (54).

The width of the space formed between the first side frame (55) and the panel assembly (54) is narrow, so that the foaming liquid may overflow when directly injected. To solve this problem, the foaming liquid is first injected into the space formed between the lower cap deco (58) and the panel assembly (54), which has a relatively wide space, and then naturally flows into the space formed between the first side frame (55) and the panel assembly (54).

In this way, the first injection port (5824) and the second injection port (584) have differences in the fluidity of the foaming liquid depending on their positions, and the foaming liquid can be simultaneously injected from both sides of the first injection port (5824) and the second injection port (584) to fill the perimeter of the sub door (50) with the foaming liquid.

Fig. 38 is a perspective view showing the state of foam injection of the sub-door. And, Fig. 39 is a drawing showing the arrangement of the vent hole of the sub-door.

Referring to the drawing, with the receiving portion cover (583) and the injection port cover (5841) open, the foaming liquid is injected toward the first injection port (5824) and the second injection port (584).

At this time, the pressure of the foaming liquid injected into the first injection port (5824) and the second injection port (584) may be set differently. That is, the foaming liquid injected into the first injection port (5824) which flows into a relatively wide space may be injected at a relatively high pressure.

Referring to Figure 38, the flow path of the foaming liquid is examined. The foaming liquid injected into the first injection port (5824) flows into the space formed by the second side frame (56) and the panel assembly (54) through the foaming liquid guide (585). Next, the foaming liquid sequentially flows into the space formed by the upper cap deco (57) and the panel assembly (54).

And, the foaming liquid injected into the second injection port (584) is first injected into the space formed by the lower cap deco (58) and the panel assembly (54), and then flows sequentially into the space between the first side frame (55) and the panel assembly (54).

The foaming liquid injected simultaneously into the first injection port (5824) and the second injection port (584) meet each other in the upper cap deco (57) area (A) or the first side frame (55) area (B). After the foaming liquid is completely filled in the space formed by the upper cap deco (57), the first side frame (55), and the second side frame (56), the foaming liquid is finally filled in the space formed by the lower cap deco (58) and the panel assembly (54), and after the filling is completed, the first injection port (5824) and the second injection port (584) are shielded by the receiving portion cover (583) and the injection port cover (5841).

Meanwhile, a vent hole (5921) is formed in the sub-door liner (59) to discharge air remaining inside the sub-door (50) when the foaming liquid is injected. The vent hole (5921) may be formed in a gasket mounting groove (592) formed along the sub-door liner (59) to which a sub-door gasket (591) is mounted.

The above gasket mounting groove (592) is formed by being sunken along the circumference of the sub-door liner (59), and the vent hole (5921) can be formed at a certain interval on the gasket mounting groove (592). Then, after the foaming liquid is completely filled, the sub-door gasket (591) is mounted on the gasket mounting groove (592). Therefore, the vent hole (5921) can be covered by the sub-door gasket (591) and is not exposed to the outside.

Meanwhile, the vent hole (5921) may be formed in a portion of the entire gasket mounting groove (592). The vent hole (5921) may be formed at a certain interval along the area (A, B) where the upper cap deco (57) and the first side frame (55) are arranged, and in particular, may be formed at a certain interval based on the corner where the upper cap deco (57) and the first side frame (55) meet each other.

Accordingly, the air inside the sub door (50) can be discharged in the area adjacent to the point where the foaming liquid injected through the first injection port (5824) and the second injection port (584) meet each other, and continuous discharge of air is possible until the foaming liquid is completely filled.

Fig. 40 is a perspective view showing the operating state of the projection device of the refrigerator. And, Fig. 41 is a cutaway perspective view showing the internal structure of the freezer of the refrigerator.

As shown in the drawing, the freezer (13) can be opened and closed by a pair of freezer doors (30). In addition, the freezer door (30) on the right side (as seen in FIG. 40) among the freezer doors (30) can be equipped with a first detection device (31) and a projection device (32).

It is preferable that the first detection device (31) and the projection device be placed on the right side of the pair of freezer doors (30) where the sub-door (50) is located. In addition, the first detection device (31) may be placed vertically on the same extension line as the second detection device (81).

The lower portion of the above freezer door (30) may be formed with an inclined surface (331) that is formed to slope inwardly as it goes downward. In addition, the first detection device (31) and the projection device (32) may be provided on the inclined surface (331).

The above projection device (32) is capable of irradiating light onto the floor surface in front of the refrigerator (1), and an image (P) such as a predetermined design or letter can be projected through the projection device. For example, when the projection device (32) is turned on, an image (P) in the form of letters such as "Door open" can be displayed on the floor in front of the refrigerator (1).

Meanwhile, a first detection device (31) may be placed below the projection device (32). The projection device (32) and the first detection device (31) may be configured as one module and may be mounted together on the inclined surface (331).

The above first detection device (31) may be configured as a type of proximity sensor capable of detecting a location, and is provided below the projection device (32) to detect whether an object is present at the location of the image (P) projected by the projection device (32).

That is, when a user positions his or her body, such as the user's foot, on the part of the image (P) projected by the projector (32), the first detection device (31) can detect this. The first detection device (31) may be a PSD sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, and various types of proximity sensors capable of recognizing a distance of approximately 10-20 cm may be used.

The above projection device (32) and the first detection device (31) are mounted on the inclined surface so as to project an image substantially directly in front of the refrigerator (1) or below the inclined surface (331) and detect an object. Accordingly, false detection by a person or animal simply passing in front of the refrigerator (1) or an object moving for cleaning is prevented. That is, the user stands at a point close to the refrigerator (1) in order to be detected by the first detection device (31), and when the user's feet are positioned directly in front of the inclined surface (331) or below the inclined surface (331), detection is made.

The detection of the first detection device (31) may include covering at least a portion of the area of the image (P) projected by the projector (32) for a set period of time, passing through the area of the image, or taking any other gesture that can be recognized by the first detection device (31).

In addition, by combining the first detection device (31) and the second detection device (81), it is possible to minimize malfunctions by allowing the user to be detected as being positioned to operate the refrigerator (1) only when they are simultaneously detected. To this end, the projection device (32) may be operated when the user is detected by the second detection device (81), and the detection value of the first detection device (31) may be made valid.

In this way, when both the first detection device (31) and the second detection device (81) are effectively detected, the door opening device (70) may operate to open the main door (40). In the embodiment of the present invention, the main door (40) is described as being opened by the door opening device (70), but the sub-door (50) or the freezer door (30) may also be opened depending on the position of the door opening device (70).

Meanwhile, the freezer door (30) can be rotated by a user holding the freezer handle, and the freezer (13) can be opened and closed by the rotation of the freezer door (30). In addition, an open/close detection device (302) can be provided on the freezer door hinge (301) that supports the freezer door (30) so that it can rotate, and whether the freezer door (30) is opened can be determined by the open/close detection device (302).

And, when the freezer door (30) is opened to a set angle or more so that the freezer storage member (131) provided inside the freezer door (30) can be withdrawn, the freezer storage member (131) can be automatically withdrawn forward by the operation of the storage member withdrawal device (34).

To this end, the freezer storage member (131) in the shape of a drawer or basket may be supported by a sliding rail (1311) so that it can be pulled out and in from inside the freezer (13). In addition, the storage member pulling device (34) provided inside the freezer (13) may be configured so that the pulling-out rod (341) is pulled out and in by the driving of a motor and gear assembly.

The above-mentioned withdrawal/intake rod (341) can be connected to the above-mentioned freezer storage member (131), and thus the above-mentioned freezer storage member (131) can be automatically withdrawn by the operation of the storage member withdrawal device (34). At this time, even when a plurality of the above-mentioned freezer storage members (131) are provided, the withdrawal/intake rod (341) and a plurality of the above-mentioned freezer storage members (131) can all be connected by the connection member (342), and thus a plurality of the above-mentioned freezer storage members (131) can be withdrawn/intake simultaneously.

And, when the freezer door (30) is rotated to close, and it is determined that the freezer door (30) has rotated a certain angle or more before coming into contact with the withdrawn freezer storage member (131), the storage member withdrawal device (34) rotates in reverse so that the withdrawal/intake rod (341) is drawn in, and can be slid into the initial position of the freezer storage member (131).

Below, the operation of the sub-door of a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention having the above-described structure will be examined.

Figure 42 is a block diagram showing the flow of control signals of the refrigerator. Figure 43 is a flowchart sequentially showing the sub-door operation of the refrigerator.

As illustrated in the drawing, the refrigerator (1) includes a main control unit (2) that controls the operation of the refrigerator, and the main control unit (2) can be connected to a door switch (21). The door switch (21) can be provided in the cabinet (10) to detect the opening of the refrigerator door (20) or the main door (40), and can also be provided in the main door (40) to detect the opening of the sub door (50).

In addition, the main control unit (2) is connected to the main lighting unit (85) provided inside the cabinet (10) so as to illuminate the interior when the refrigerator door (20) or the main door (40) is opened. In addition, the main control unit (2) is connected to the door lighting unit (49) so as to light up when the sub door (50) is opened or a knock-on signal is input.

The above main control unit (2) is connected to the display unit (60) and can control the operation of the display unit (60) and can also receive an operation signal through the display unit (60). In addition, the above main control unit (2) is connected to the door opening device (70) and the storage member extraction device (34) and can control the operation of the door opening device (70) and the storage member extraction device (34).

The above main control unit (2) may be connected to a communication module (84). The communication module (84) is for transmitting and receiving data such as status information, program upgrades, and usage pattern information of the refrigerator (1), and may be configured as a device capable of short-distance communication such as NFC, WIFI, or Bluetooth. In addition, the settings of this communication module (84) may be performed in the display unit (60).

The above main control unit (2) may be directly or indirectly connected to the first detection device (31), the second detection device (81), the knock detection device (82), and the projection device (32), and may receive operation signals or control operations thereof. In addition, when the knock detection device (82) and/or the first detection device (31) are connected to a detection device PCB (83), the detection device PCB (83) may be connected to the main control unit (2). In addition, the knock detection device (82) and the detection device PCB (83) may be configured as one unit.

The refrigerator (1) having this configuration can, in a normal situation without separate operation, have the sub-door (50) in an opaque state, like a mirror surface, as shown in Fig. 4. In this state, it becomes impossible to see inside the refrigerator.

And in this state, the first detection device (31), the second detection device (81), and the knock detection device (82) are maintained in an activated state so that the user's operation input is possible at any time. [S110]

In this state, when the user positions himself/herself at the front of the refrigerator (1) to open the main door (40) or sub-door (50) of the refrigerator (1), the second detection device (81) detects the user's position. At this time, if the user is an infant and not an adult, the second detection device (81) is not detected due to the characteristics of its position, and if an object being cleaned or moved is lower in height than the second detection device (81), it is not detected, thereby preventing malfunction. Meanwhile, detection by the second detection device (81) is not essential and may be selectively set by the user's operation. [S120]

Next, when the user performs a knock-on operation by knocking on the front of the sub-door (50), i.e., the front panel (541), the knock detection device (82) detects this, and the detection device PC (83) determines whether the knock-on operation is a valid operation.

In detail, when a user taps the front panel (541), the vibration waves generated at that time move along the front panel (541), which is the same medium, and the sound waves are received by a microphone (8211) in close contact with the front panel (541).

The received sound waves are filtered and amplified as they pass through the filter and amplifier and are transmitted to the detection device PCB (83), and the detection device PCB (83) determines a knock based on the collected and analyzed signal so that it can detect a knock signal.

That is, in the case of sound waves generated by noise or impact inside or outside the house, there is a difference in their characteristics from sound waves generated by knocking, and therefore, the detection device PCB (83) determines whether the user has knocked through a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the knock signal.

Of course, in certain circumstances, a signal similar to a knock signal may be generated, a knock-like impact may be generated on the front panel (541) due to the user's carelessness or lack of skill in operation, or external noise may be recognized as a signal similar to the wavelength of a knock signal.

In order to prevent misrecognition in such special circumstances, the detection device PCB (83) checks whether the knock signal is continuously generated according to a set pattern and determines whether this pattern is formed within a set time.

For example, in order to be detected as a valid knock-on signal, the signal recognized as a knock can be set to occur twice within 1 second. As a result of analyzing the knock pattern of a typical user, it is found that the knock is performed twice in succession with the time interval between the knocks being less than 1 second. Therefore, setting it this way not only prevents misrecognition in special situations but also enables accurate recognition of the user's knock operation. Of course, the number of knock signals and the set time for determining it as a valid knock-on signal can be varied.

If the second detection device (81) above does not detect a detection signal or it is determined that a valid knock-on signal is not generated through the knock detection device (82), the main control unit (2) does not perform a separate control operation and maintains a standby state.

In addition, when the main door (40) or sub door (50) is open, the second detection device (81) and the knock detection device (82) can be deactivated or the input signal can be ignored to prevent malfunction. [S130]

Meanwhile, when a valid knock-on signal is detected and the detection device PC (83) transmits a valid signal to the main control unit (2), the main control unit (2) turns on the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49).

When the main lighting unit (85) or door lighting unit (49) is turned on, the interior of the high-rise building becomes brighter, and the light from the interior of the high-rise building passes through the panel assembly (54). In particular, when the light passes through the front panel (541), the front panel (541) becomes transparent, allowing the interior to be seen through, as shown in FIG. 5.

When the above sub-door (50) becomes transparent, the user can check the storage space or the internal space inside the main door (40), and open the sub-door (50) to store food or perform necessary work.

At this time, the display unit (60) can also be turned on and display the operation information of the refrigerator (1). Accordingly, the user can check the information output from the display (61) placed inside the main door (40) through the sub door (50). [S140]

The main lighting unit (85) or door lighting unit (49) that is turned on is kept lit for a set time, for example, 10 seconds, so that the user can sufficiently check the interior condition. Of course, the display unit (60) is also able to remain lit for a set time.

And, it is determined whether the set time has elapsed while the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit is turned on, and if the set time has elapsed, the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49) is turned off. [S150]

In addition, a valid knock-on operation signal may be input by the user before the set time has elapsed while the main lighting unit (85) or door lighting unit (49) is turned on.

That is, if the user performs a knock-on operation to check the interior and no separate operation is required after checking the interior, the main lighting unit (85) or door lighting unit (49) can be turned off before the set time has elapsed.

For example, if the user checks the storage status of the storage unit within 5 seconds after the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, or if the user completes checking the information displayed on the display unit (60) and wishes to make the sub door (50) opaque, the user knocks on the front of the sub door (50), i.e., the front panel (541).

If the knock operation at this time is determined to be valid, the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49) may be turned off before the set time elapses, and the display unit (60) may also stop outputting information. Of course, the determination of the validity of the knock operation at this time may be set in the same manner as in [S130], or may be set to a different knock input pattern as needed. [S160]

When the set time has elapsed after the main lighting unit (85) or door lighting unit (49) is turned on or a valid knock-on signal is input, the main lighting unit (85) or door lighting unit (49) can be turned off.

When the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49) is turned off, the inner side of the door becomes dark and the outer side of the door becomes bright. In this state, the light from the outer side of the door is reflected from the front panel (541), and the front of the sub door (50) becomes like a mirror, making it impossible to see inside. Therefore, the sub door (50) remains opaque until a new operation is input. [S170]

Below, the operation of the display unit (60) of the refrigerator will be examined with reference to the drawings.

Fig. 44 is a perspective view showing the mounting state of the display unit. And, Fig. 45 is a drawing showing the front configuration of the display unit.

As shown in the drawing, the display unit (60) is provided at the bottom of the opening of the main door (40). In addition, when the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49) is turned on so that the sub door (50) becomes transparent, the display unit (60) is turned on together, so that information of the display unit (60) can be checked through the sub door (50) even when the sub door (50) is closed.

The display unit (60) can be turned on even when the sub-door (50) is open. A user can open the sub-door (50) to operate the display unit (60), and when the opening of the sub-door (50) is detected by the door switch (21), the display unit (60) can be activated.

The display (61) is provided at the center of the front of the display unit (60), and a number of operation buttons (62) may be provided on both left and right sides of the display (61).

The above display (61) is a screen that outputs operation information of the refrigerator (1) and can be selectively turned on/off according to the knock on of the front panel (541) or the opening/closing of the sub door (50).

In addition, the above operation buttons (62) may be configured as buttons for setting the operation of the refrigerator, including a communication button (621), a lock button (622), an auto door button (623), an auto drawer button (624), a refrigerator temperature control button (625), a freezer temperature control button (626), an air purification button (627), and a quick freeze button (628). It should be noted that the combination of the above operation buttons (62) is an example for the convenience of explanation and is not limited thereto.

Figure 46 is a drawing showing changes in the display status of the display unit according to the knock-on operation.

As shown in the drawing, the display (61) remains in an off state before the user operates the knock-on operation on the front panel (541). Then, when the user operates the knock-on operation on the front panel (541), the display (61) turns on, and at this time, the display (61) can output a first screen (611) or a second screen (612) that outputs the temperature inside the refrigerator and the currently operating function.

At this time, the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49) is turned on, so that the sub-door (50) becomes transparent, so that information on the display (61) can be displayed even when the sub-door (50) is closed.

And, when the set time has elapsed after the display unit (60) is turned on, or when the user knocks on the front panel (541) again, the display (61) is turned off, and at this time, the main lighting unit (85) or the door lighting unit (49) is also turned off, so that the sub door (50) becomes opaque and the display (61) cannot be viewed from the outside.

Figure 47 is a drawing showing the change in status of the display when the sub-door is opened and closed.

As shown in the drawing, when the sub-door (50) is closed, the display (61) is turned off. Then, when the sub-door (50) is opened, the opening of the sub-door (50) is detected by the door switch (21), and the main control unit (2) turns on the display (61).

When the above display (61) is turned on, the operation information of the refrigerator (1) is displayed on the first screen (611), and after a set time has elapsed, the screen switches to display other operation information of the refrigerator (1) on the second screen (612). At this time, the information displayed on the first screen (611) and the second screen (612) can be changed by the user's operation.

For example, the first screen (611) may display the temperatures of both the refrigerator (12) and the freezer (13), and may display information about the currently operating function. In addition, the second screen (612) may display information about the temperature of either the refrigerator (12) or the freezer (13) storage space, and information about the function currently operating in the storage space.

Meanwhile, when the sub-door (50) is closed, the display (61) detects the closing of the sub-door (50) by the door switch (21), and the main control unit (2) turns off the display (61).

Figure 48 is a drawing showing the change in display status when the auto door function of the above display unit is set.

As shown in the drawing, when the sub-door (50) is opened and the display (61) is turned on, and the user presses the auto door button (623), the display (61) displays a third screen (613) indicating that the door opening device (70) is activated. In addition, if the door opening device (70) is not activated, the display (61) displays a fourth screen (614) indicating that the door opening device (70) is deactivated.

And, when the auto door button (623) is operated again while the display (61) is displaying the third screen (613) or the fourth screen (614), the third screen (613) and the fourth screen (614) can be switched to each other, and the door opening device (70) can also substantially change its state.

That is, if the user does not wish to use the door opening device (70), the user can set this by operating the auto door button (623), and in this state, the door opening device (70) does not operate.

Meanwhile, if there is no user operation for a set period of time or longer while the display (61) is switched to the state of the third screen (613) or the fourth screen (614), the display (61) switches to the state of the first screen (611) or the second screen (612) indicating the temperature inside the refrigerator. Then, if the door opening device (70) is activated at this time, the auto door button (623) may be turned on, and if it is deactivated, the auto door button (623) may be turned off.

Figure 49 is a drawing showing the change in display status when the auto drawer function of the above display unit is set.

As shown in the drawing, when the sub-door (50) is opened and the display (61) is turned on, and the user presses the auto drawer button (624), the display (61) displays a fifth screen (615) indicating that the storage member withdrawal device (34) is activated. In addition, if the storage member withdrawal device (34) is not activated, the display (61) displays a sixth screen (616) indicating that the storage member withdrawal device (34) is deactivated.

And, when the auto drawer button (624) is operated again while the display (61) is displaying the fifth screen (615) or the sixth screen (616), the fifth screen (615) and the sixth screen (616) can be switched to each other, and the state of the storage member withdrawal device (34) can also be substantially changed.

That is, if the user does not wish to use the storage member withdrawal device (34), the user can set this by operating the auto drawer button (624), and in this state, the storage member withdrawal device (34) does not operate.

Meanwhile, if there is no user operation for a set period of time or longer while the display (611) is switched to the state of the 5th screen (615) or the 6th screen (616), the display (61) switches to the state of the 1st screen (611) or the 2nd screen (612) indicating the temperature inside the refrigerator. Then, if the storage member withdrawal device (34) is activated, the auto drawer button (624) may be turned on, and if it is deactivated, the auto drawer button (624) may be turned off.

Figure 50 is a drawing showing the change in display status when the temperature control function of the above display unit is set.

As shown in the drawing, when the sub-door (50) is opened and the display (61) is turned on, and the user presses the refrigerator temperature control button (625), the operation can be controlled by the main control unit (2) to maintain the temperature inside the refrigerator at the set temperature, and the seventh screen (617) indicating this is displayed. In addition, if the refrigerator temperature control mode is not set, the display (61) displays the eighth screen (618) indicating that the refrigerator temperature control mode is deactivated.

And, when the refrigerator temperature control button (625) is operated again while the display (61) is displaying the 7th screen (617) or the 8th screen (618), the 7th screen (617) and the 8th screen (618) can be switched to each other, and the operation mode of the refrigerator (1) can also be substantially switched.

That is, if the user does not wish to use the refrigerator constant temperature mode function, the user can set it by operating the refrigerator constant temperature button (625), and in this state, the refrigerator constant temperature mode operation is not performed.

Meanwhile, if there is no user operation for a set period of time or longer while the display (61) is switched to the state of the 7th screen (617) or the 8th screen (618), the display (61) switches to the state of the 1st screen (611) or the 2nd screen (612) indicating the temperature inside the refrigerator. Then, if the refrigerator temperature mode is activated, the refrigerator temperature button (625) may be turned on, and if the refrigerator temperature mode is deactivated, the refrigerator temperature button (625) may be turned off.

In addition, when the above freezer temperature control button (626), air purification button (627), quick freezing button (628), and communication button (621) are operated, the status of the display (61) changes in the same manner as described above, with only the contents of the screen being different, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Claims (15)

Cabinet with space formed;
A door that opens and closes at least a portion of the space;
A lighting unit that illuminates the interior of the above space;
An opening formed in the above door;
A panel assembly for closing the above opening;
A knock detection device that detects a user's knock operation applied to the above panel assembly;
A detection device PCB that determines a knock signal generated from the above knock detection device;
If the knock operation is valid by the above detection device PC,
Includes a main control unit that turns on the above lighting unit,
If the above detection device PC detects multiple knock signals within a given time,
If it is judged as a valid knock operation,
A home appliance characterized in that when the lighting unit is turned on, the user can check the inside of the space through the panel assembly. In the first paragraph,
The above space is a home appliance that is a storage space for storing food at low temperatures. In the first paragraph,
After the above lighting unit is turned on, the lighting unit is turned off after the set time has elapsed, or
An appliance characterized in that, after the lighting unit is turned on, if a valid knock operation is detected before the set time elapses, the lighting unit is turned off. In the first paragraph,
A home appliance characterized in that when the lighting unit is turned off, the user's visibility inside the space is limited compared to when the lighting unit is turned on. In the first paragraph,
The above panel assembly includes a front panel made of a transparent material having a see-through area that selectively allows for viewing into the space.
The above front panel has a half-mirror structure that controls light transmittance or reflectance, and when the lighting unit is turned on, the inside can be seen through.
A home appliance characterized in that the lighting unit becomes a mirror-like state when turned off. In the first paragraph,
A home appliance characterized in that the lighting unit is installed inside the cabinet. In the first paragraph,
A home appliance characterized in that the lighting unit is installed on the rear side of the door. In the first paragraph,
A home appliance characterized in that the knock detection device is installed on the door. In the first paragraph,
The above panel assembly includes a front panel made of a transparent material having a see-through area that selectively allows for viewing into the space.
A home appliance characterized in that the knock detection device detects a user's knock operation applied to the see-through area. In the first paragraph,
A home appliance characterized in that the above knock detection device detects vibration generated by a user's knock operation. In the first paragraph,
The above knock detection device and the detection device PCB are each installed on the door,
A home appliance characterized in that the main control unit is installed in the cabinet. In the first paragraph,
A home appliance characterized in that the lighting unit is turned on and when a set time has elapsed, the lighting unit is automatically turned off. In the first paragraph,
A home appliance characterized in that, when the lighting unit is turned on and a valid knock operation is detected by the detection device PCB, the lighting unit is controlled to be turned off. In the first paragraph,
The above panel assembly includes a front panel made of a transparent material having a see-through area that selectively allows for viewing into the space, and a bezel that is arranged on the rear of the front panel in a form that surrounds the see-through area.
A home appliance characterized in that the knock detection device is mounted on the rear of the bezel. In paragraph 14,
An additional insulating panel is placed at the rear of the front panel, spaced apart by a simple bar.
A home appliance characterized in that a sealed space is formed between the front panel and the insulation panel.