Equipment that can be installed with a discharge device

Abstract

The reduction of discharge products caused by the first and second discharge electrodes is suppressed. The air purifier (61) includes a device mounting portion (81) for mounting an ion generating device (71) in the outlet air passage (23). The device mounting portion (81) has a device mounting hole (82) for allowing the positive and negative discharge electrodes (11, 12) to protrude into the outlet air passage (23) in a manner arranged in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the wind; and a partition member (83) whose upstream end portion in the flow of the wind is located upstream of the device mounting hole (82).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to equipment capable of installing a discharge device, such as an air conditioner equipped with the discharge device. Background Art

[0002] Ion generators are known as discharge devices for purifying, sterilizing, or deodorizing indoor air. These devices generate ions by applying a high voltage to a needle- or brush-shaped discharge electrode, creating a corona discharge between the tip of the discharge electrode and an induction electrode. These ion generators are typically installed in the air duct that blows air out of an air conditioner.

[0003] An ion generator generally generates positive ions and negative ions, as disclosed in Patent Document 1. Therefore, the ion generator includes, as discharge electrodes, a positive discharge electrode for generating positive ions and a negative discharge electrode for generating negative ions.

[0004] Specifically, the ion generating device generates positive ions by corona discharge when a positive high voltage is applied between the positive discharge electrode and the induction electrode, and generates negative ions by corona discharge when a negative high voltage is applied between the negative discharge electrode and the induction electrode.

[0005] Furthermore, if generated positive ions and negative ions come into contact with each other, their electrical properties are neutralized, reducing the amount of ions. Therefore, in Patent Document 2, a partition is provided between a positive ion generating element with a positive discharge electrode and a negative ion generating element with a negative discharge electrode to prevent the positive and negative ions from mixing. The partition is parallel to the direction of air flow in the air path.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-044917

[0009] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-66029 Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical problems to be solved by the present invention

[0011] However, while the separator prevents the generated positive and negative ions from mixing, it also has the effect of causing the generated positive and negative ions to adhere to the separator, reducing the amount of ions. Therefore, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, simply providing a separator between the positive and negative ion generating elements presents the problem of potentially reducing the amount of ions.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention is to provide equipment capable of mounting a discharge device, which, when the discharge device is mounted, can suppress reduction of discharge products generated by a first discharge electrode and a second discharge electrode of the discharge device.

[0013] Solutions to the Problem

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a device capable of mounting a discharge device comprises: an air duct having an outlet leading to the exterior of the device; and an air supply device for blowing air into the air duct, wherein a device mounting portion is provided in the air duct, and wherein a discharge device is mounted in the device mounting portion. The discharge device generates first and second discharge products by discharge between first and second discharge electrodes and a third electrode; the device mounting portion has a device mounting hole, wherein the first and second discharge electrodes protrude into the air duct so as to be aligned in a direction intersecting the direction of air flow; and a partition member extending parallel to the direction of air flow, wherein an upstream end portion of the air flow is located between the first and second discharge electrodes in the direction of alignment of the first and second discharge electrodes, and the partition member is located upstream of the device mounting hole in the air duct.

[0015] Effects of the Invention

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, when a discharge device is installed, it is possible to suppress the discharge product generated by the first discharge electrode of the discharge device and the discharge product generated by the second discharge electrode from mixing and decreasing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the structure of an ion generating device as a discharge device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 (a) is a front view of the ion generating device. Figure 2 (b) is a top view of the ion generating device. Figure 2 (c) is the above-mentioned ion generating device Figure 2 (b) A direction side view, Figure 2 (d) is the above-mentioned ion generating device Figure 2 (b) BB cross-section diagram, Figure 2 (e) is the ion generating device 1 Figure 2 (b) Side view in the C direction.

[0019] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram showing the positional relationship among the positive discharge electrode, partition plate, and induction electrode of the ion generating device.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a longitudinal sectional view of an air purifier serving as an air conditioner in which the above-mentioned ion generating device is installed.

[0021] Figure 5 (a) is a front view of an ion generating device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 (b) is Figure 5 (a) is a top view of the ion generating device 2.

[0022] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the positional relationship among the positive discharge electrode, the partition plate, and the induction electrode of an ion generating apparatus according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the positional relationship among the positive discharge electrode, the partition plate, and the induction electrode of an ion generating apparatus according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 8 It is a perspective view showing the structure of an ion generating device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 9 It is a perspective view showing the structure of an ion generating device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 10 (a) is a front view of an ion generating device according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 (b) is Figure 10 (a) is a top view of the ion generating device shown.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a plan view showing a first configuration example of the induction electrode included in the ion generating apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 12 It is a plan view showing a second configuration example of the induction electrode included in the ion generating device.

[0029] Figure 13 It is a plan view showing a third configuration example of the induction electrode included in the ion generating device.

[0030] Figure 14 It is a plan view showing a fourth configuration example of the induction electrode included in the ion generating device.

[0031] Figure 15 (a) is a plan view showing a fifth configuration example of the induction electrode included in the ion generating device. Figure 15 (b) is Figure 15(a) is a front view of the sensing electrode shown.

[0032] Figure 16 (a) is a plan view showing a sixth configuration example of the induction electrode included in the ion generating device. Figure 16 (b) is Figure 16 (a) is a front view of the sensing electrode shown.

[0033] Figure 17 (a) is a plan view showing a seventh configuration example of the induction electrode included in the ion generating device. Figure 17 (b) is Figure 17 (a) is a front view of the sensing electrode shown.

[0034] Figure 18 (a) is a top view of the ion generating apparatus showing the verification of the effect of the partition plate included in the ion generating apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 (b) is Figure 18 (a) is a front view of the ion generating device 8, Figure 18 (c) is Figure 18 (a) is a side view of the ion generating device shown.

[0035] Figure 19 This is an explanatory diagram showing a measurement state of ion concentration for verifying the effect of the partition plate included in the ion generating apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 20 (a) means Figure 19 A front view of the apparatus showing an installed state of the ion generating device, Figure 20 (b) means Figure 20 (a) D-D cross-sectional view.

[0037] Figure 21 It is an explanatory diagram showing the verification results of the effect of the partition plate included in the ion generating apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 22 It is a longitudinal sectional view showing the structure of an air cleaner as an air conditioner according to the present embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 23 Yes means installed in Figure 22 A three-dimensional view of the ion generating device of the air purifier shown.

[0040] Figure 24 It means in Figure 22 The figure shows a three-dimensional view of an air purifier in which an ion generating device is installed in the air outlet passage.

[0041] Figure 25 (a) means Figure 24 A top view of the state, Figure 25 (b) is Figure 25 (a) is a plan view of the structure of the device mounting portion of the air outlet duct.

[0042] Figure 26 It is a plan view showing the structure of a device mounting portion of an air outlet duct of an air cleaner of an air conditioner as another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] [Implementation Method 1]

[0044] (Configuration of Ion Generator 1)

[0045] (Overview of the Configuration of the Ion Generator 1)

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the drawings. Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing the structure of an ion generating device 1 as a discharge device according to this embodiment. Figure 2 (a) is a front view of the ion generating device 1. Figure 2 (b) is a top view of the ion generating device 1. Figure 2 (c) is the ion generating device 1 Figure 2 (b) A direction side view, Figure 2 (d) is the ion generating device 1 Figure 2 (b) BB cross-section diagram, Figure 2 (e) is the ion generating device 1 Figure 2 (b) Side view in the C direction. Figure 3 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the positional relationship among the positive discharge electrode 11 , the partition plate 14 , and the induction electrode 16 of the ion generating apparatus 1 .

[0047] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the ion generating device 1 includes a positive discharge electrode (first discharge electrode) 11, a negative discharge electrode (second discharge electrode) 12, a housing 13, a partition plate 14, an electrode protection portion 15, an induction electrode 16 (third electrode, see Figure 3 ) and the electrode substrate 17 (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0048] The housing 13 is formed of an insulating resin and has a box shape, for example. The housing 13 houses the electrode substrate 17 and a circuit substrate (not shown). The positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 are provided on the electrode substrate 17 in the normal direction relative to the upper surface (see FIG. Figure 3). In addition, the induction electrode 16 is provided around the positive side and negative side discharge electrodes 11 and 12 on the upper surface of the electrode substrate 17. The upper surface of the induction electrode 16, that is, the upper surface of the electrode substrate 17, is covered with a resin layer 18. Figure 3 Only the positive-side discharge electrode 11 is shown.

[0049] The circuit board includes a discharge voltage supply circuit that generates positive and negative high voltages. The voltage generated by the discharge voltage supply circuit is supplied to the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and the induction electrode 16. Specifically, the discharge voltage supply circuit applies a high-voltage positive pulse to the positive discharge electrode 11, a high-voltage negative pulse to the negative discharge electrode 12, and a voltage to the induction electrode 16 that generates a discharge between the induction electrode 16 and the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12.

[0050] In this embodiment, the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 have brush-shaped tips. These positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 protrude from the upper surface of the housing 13 to the same height and are arranged at intervals.

[0051] The induction electrode 16 is insulated from the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and is provided around the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 .

[0052] Furthermore, although the ion generating apparatus 1 is configured to include one positive discharge electrode 11 and one negative discharge electrode 12, it may include a plurality of discharge electrodes. This is also the same as in the other ion generating apparatuses described below.

[0053] (Separator 14)

[0054] Partition plate 14 is formed of resin and is provided between positive discharge electrode 11 and negative discharge electrode 12 to define the space between the positive discharge electrode 11 and negative discharge electrode 12. Partition plate 14 is higher than the top ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12.

[0055] Here, the ion generating device 1 is preferably installed so that the wind flows in a direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12 in the wind path for blowing out the air conditioner. Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 (b) shows the direction of wind flow with arrows. Therefore, the partition plate 14 is parallel to the direction of wind flow in the wind path.

[0056] Furthermore, in the wind flow direction, the downstream end of the partition plate 14 in the wind flow (hereinafter simply referred to as the downstream end) is not located downstream of the downstream end of the induction electrode 16. In other words, the downstream end of the partition plate 14 is located at the same position as the downstream end of the induction electrode 16 or upstream of the downstream end of the induction electrode 16. Figures 1 to 3 In the example, the downstream end of the partition plate 14 is at the same position as the downstream end of the induction electrode 16 .

[0057] Furthermore, due to the positional relationship between positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and induction electrode 16, the downstream ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 are located downstream of the downstream end of induction electrode 16 as described below. Specifically, the downstream end of partition plate 14 is located at the same position as the downstream ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12, or upstream of the downstream ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12.

[0058] The positional relationship between separator plate 14, induction electrode 16, and positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 described above can be summarized as follows. Specifically, the downstream end of separator plate 14 is located at the same position as, or upstream of, the end (hereinafter referred to as the electrode's most downstream end). The electrode's most downstream end is located at the most downstream side of the downstream ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and induction electrode 16. The electrode's most downstream end, as described here, includes not only the generally circular portion surrounding positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12, but also a connecting portion and a branching portion.

[0059] (Electrode protection portion 15)

[0060] Electrode protector 15 is provided on the opposite side of positive discharge electrode 11 from separator 14, and on the opposite side of negative discharge electrode 12 from separator 14. Like separator 14, electrode protector 15 is higher than the upper ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12.

[0061] Like the partition plate 14, the electrode guard 15 is parallel to the direction of wind flow in the air path. Furthermore, the electrode guard 15 has a rectangular frame shape, with an opening 15a formed inside. Specifically, the electrode guard 15 is formed by connecting a rod-shaped horizontal member 15b and a rod-shaped vertical member 15c. The vertical members 15c include a first vertical member 15c1 on the upstream side of the wind flow and a second vertical member 15c2 on the downstream side. The horizontal member 15b connects the upper ends of the first vertical member 15c1 and the second vertical member 15c2. The frame shape of the electrode guard 15 is not limited to a rectangular shape.

[0062] (Configuration of the ion generator 1 in the air purifier 21)

[0063] The ion generating device 1 is used by being attached to an air passage for blowing out air from various air conditioners. Here, the air conditioners include air conditioners, air purifiers, humidifiers, and other various devices having an air supply function.

[0064] Figure 4 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of an air purifier 21 as an air conditioner equipped with an ion generating device 1. Figure 4 As shown, the air cleaner 21 has an air outlet passage 23 extending in the vertical direction inside the housing 22. The upper end of the air outlet passage 23 is an opening, which serves as an air outlet 23a.

[0065] A blower 24 is provided below the outlet passage 23 . The blower 24 draws external air into the outlet passage 23 via, for example, a rear panel 25 , a deodorizing filter 26 , and a dust collecting filter 27 , and blows the drawn air out from an outlet 23 a .

[0066] (Operations and Advantages of the Air Purifier 21 and the Ion Generator 1)

[0067] In the above-described configuration, when the blower 24 of the air purifier 21 rotates, the air outside the air purifier 21 is sucked into the outlet air passage 23 via the rear panel 25, the deodorizing filter 26, and the dust collecting filter 27. The air sucked into the outlet air passage 23 flows in the outlet air passage 23 toward the outlet 23a and is blown out from the outlet 23a.

[0068] When the ion generating device 1 is operated, discharge occurs between the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11, 12, and the induction electrode 16. This generates positive ions at the tip of the positive discharge electrode 11, and negative ions at the tip of the negative discharge electrode 12. These positive and negative ions are blown out of the outlet 23a along with the air generated by the blower 24.

[0069] If the generated positive and negative ions mix, they recombine, are neutralized, and are eliminated. In this case, the ion concentration in the air outlet passage 23 decreases. However, in the ion generating device 1, the partition plate 14 is located between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12, which prevents the generated positive and negative ions from mixing, thereby suppressing the decrease in the ion concentration of the positive and negative ions.

[0070] Furthermore, in the ion generating apparatus 1, as described above, the partition plate 14 is provided between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12. This prevents the generated positive and negative ions from mixing with each other, even when the gap between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12 is narrow. Consequently, the ion generating apparatus 1 can be miniaturized by narrowing the gap between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12.

[0071] On the other hand, in the ion generating apparatus 1, the presence of the partition plate 14 near the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 makes it easy for generated positive and negative ions to adhere to the partition plate 14. When positive and negative ions adhere to the partition plate 14, the ion concentration decreases accordingly. Therefore, the longer the partition plate 14 is downstream of the wind flow, the greater the decrease in ion concentration caused by the attachment of positive and negative ions to the partition plate 14. However, in the ion generating apparatus 1, the downstream end of the partition plate 14 is located at the same position as the most downstream end of the electrode (the most downstream end of the downstream ends of the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and the induction electrode 16), or upstream of the most downstream end of the electrode. In other words, in the ion generating apparatus 1, the downstream end of the partition plate 14 is minimized, which prevents generated positive and negative ions from adhering to the partition plate 14 and causing a decrease in ion concentration.

[0072] Furthermore, since the electrode protection portion 15 is formed by connecting the rod-shaped horizontal member 15b and the rod-shaped vertical member 15c, there is no partition wall and the surface area is reduced, it is possible to suppress the generated positive and negative ions from adhering to the electrode protection portion 15 and thus reducing the ion concentration.

[0073] Furthermore, the electrode protector 15 and the partition plate 14 protect the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12, preventing other objects from colliding with them from upstream and downstream of the wind flow, or from above. Furthermore, the electrode protector 15 protects the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12, preventing other objects 3 from colliding with them from a direction intersecting the wind flow. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned function of the partition plate 14, the partition plate 14 also serves to protect the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12.

[0074] Furthermore, this embodiment describes the case where the discharge device is an ion generator 1 that generates positive and negative ions. However, the discharge device is not limited to the ion generator 1. The discharge device may also generate a first discharge product through discharge between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the induction electrode 16, and a second discharge product through discharge between the negative discharge electrode 12 and the induction electrode 16. In this case, the first and second discharge products generated by the discharge device may be, in addition to positive and negative ions, positively or negatively charged water particles (charged corpuscular water), or a composite composed of charged corpuscular water and active species. This discharge device configuration also applies to the other embodiments described below.

[0075] [Implementation Method 2]

[0076] Other embodiments of the present invention are described below based on the drawings. In addition, for the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals are given to components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments, and their description will not be repeated.

[0077] (Ion Generator 2)

[0078] Figure 5 (a) is a front view of the ion generating device 2 of this embodiment. Figure 5 (b) is a top view of the ion generating device 2.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, the ion generator 2 also includes electrode protectors 15 between the partition plate 14 and the positive discharge electrode 11, and between the partition plate 14 and the negative discharge electrode 12. Specifically, the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 are surrounded on both sides by the electrode protectors 15 in a direction intersecting the wind flow. Thus, the ion generator 2 has a higher level of protection than the ion generator 1, thanks to the electrode protectors 15, thanks to the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12.

[0080] The other structures of the ion generator 2 are the same as those of the aforementioned ion generator 1. In addition, the operation and advantages of the air purifier 21 including the ion generator 2 and the ion generator 2 are the same as those of the air purifier 21 including the ion generator 1 and the ion generator 1.

[0081] [Implementation Method 3]

[0082] Further other embodiments of the present invention will be described below based on the drawings. In addition, for the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0083] (Ion Generator 3, Partition Plate 14)

[0084] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the positional relationship among the positive discharge electrode 11 , the partition plate 14 , and the induction electrode 16 of the ion generating device 3 according to the present embodiment.

[0085] Figure 6 This indicates a state where a high voltage is applied to the positive discharge electrode 11. Figure 6 As shown, when a high voltage is applied to the positive discharge electrode 11, the front end thereof becomes open. This is because the plurality of fibers forming the brush are separated from each other by electrical repulsion.

[0086] In the ion generator 3, the downstream ends of the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 are located downstream of the induction electrode 16 when a high voltage is applied. Therefore, in the ion generator 3, the downstream end of the partition plate 14 is located at the same position as the most downstream end of the electrode, or upstream of the most downstream end of the electrode. When the ion generator 3 is used instead of the ion generator 1, Figure 4 The air cleaner 21 shown includes an ion generating device 3 instead of the ion generating device 1 .

[0087] The other structures of the ion generating device 3 are the same as those of the aforementioned ion generating device 1. In addition, the operation and advantages of the air purifier 21 including the ion generating device 3 and the ion generating device 3 are the same as those of the air purifier 21 including the aforementioned ion generating device 1 and the ion generating device 1.

[0088] (Implementation 4)

[0089] Further other embodiments of the present invention will be described below based on the drawings. In addition, for the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0090] (Ion generating device 4)

[0091] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the positional relationship among the positive discharge electrode 11 , the partition plate 14 , and the induction electrode 16 of the ion generating device 4 according to the present embodiment.

[0092] like Figure 7 As shown, the ion generating device 4 replaces Figure 3 The brush-shaped positive discharge electrode 11 shown in FIG. 1 is replaced with a needle-shaped positive discharge electrode 11. Figure 7 Although the negative-side discharge electrode 12 is not shown, the negative-side discharge electrode 12 has the same configuration as the positive-side discharge electrode 11 .

[0093] The positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 can be appropriately selected to be in a brush shape or a needle shape, and are not limited to the brush shape or the needle shape. This point is also the same as in the ion generating apparatuses of other embodiments.

[0094] The other structures of the ion generator 4 are the same as those of the aforementioned ion generator 1. The operation and advantages of the air purifier 21 and the ion generator 4 are the same as those of the air purifier 21 and the ion generator 1.

[0095] [Implementation 5]

[0096] Further other embodiments of the present invention will be described below based on the drawings. In addition, for the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0097] (Configuration and Advantages of Ion Generator 5 and Electrode Protector 31)

[0098] Figure 8 : is a perspective view showing the structure of the ion generating device 5 of this embodiment. Figure 8 As shown, the ion generating device 5 replaces Figure 1 The electrode protection portion 15 shown has an electrode protection portion 31 .

[0099] The electrode protection portion 31 is located at the upstream and downstream ends of the partition plate 14 in the air flow, and is formed by connecting two pairs of rod-shaped longitudinal members 31 a and a pair of rod-shaped transverse members 31 b.

[0100] Specifically, the upstream electrode protection portion 31 includes an upstream longitudinal member 31a, or a first longitudinal member 31a1, located on the opposite side of the partition plate 14 relative to the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12. The upstream electrode protection portion 31 includes a transverse member 31b, or a first transverse member 31b1, extending from the upper end of the first longitudinal member 31a1 on the positive discharge electrode 11 side to the upper end of the first longitudinal member 31a1 on the negative discharge electrode 12 side.

[0101] Similarly, the downstream electrode protection section 31 includes a downstream longitudinal member 31a, or second longitudinal member 31a2, located on the opposite side of the partition plate 14 relative to the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12. The downstream electrode protection section 31 includes a transverse member 31b, or second transverse member 31b2, extending from the upper end of the second transverse member 31a2 on the positive discharge electrode 11 side to the upper end of the second transverse member 31a2 on the negative discharge electrode 12 side. The first transverse member 31b1 and the second transverse member 31b2 are connected to the partition plate 14 at their intermediate portions.

[0102] Like the partition plate 14, the electrode protector 31 is taller than the upper ends of the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12. Therefore, the electrode protector 31 and the partition plate 14, like the electrode protector 15 and the partition plate 14 of the ion generating apparatus 1, have the function of protecting the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12. Furthermore, because the electrode protector 31 includes the horizontal member 31b, it is taller than the electrode protector 15 in terms of its ability to prevent collisions with other objects, such as those upstream and downstream of the wind flow, and those above.

[0103] Furthermore, the two electrode protectors 31 and the partition plate 14 are connected by the horizontal member 31b of the electrode protector 31. Therefore, the electrode protectors 31 and the partition plate 14 are stronger than the electrode protectors 15 and the partition plate 14 of the ion generating apparatus 1, and thus provide a higher level of protection for the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12.

[0104] Furthermore, because the electrode protection portion 31 is formed by connecting the rod-shaped longitudinal member 31a and the rod-shaped transverse member 31b, the area surrounded by the upper surface of the housing 13, the left and right longitudinal members 31a, and the transverse members 31b (the area surrounded by the left and right first longitudinal members 31a1 and first transverse members 31b1, and the area surrounded by the left and right second longitudinal members 31a2 and second transverse members 31b2) forms an opening 31c1. This allows wind flowing over the upper surface of the housing 13 to flow without being disturbed by the electrode protection portion 31.

[0105] In addition, an opening portion 31c2 is formed between the upstream electrode protection portion 31 and the downstream electrode protection portion 31, between the upstream first longitudinal component 31a1 and the downstream second longitudinal component 31a2, and between the upstream first transverse component 31b1 and the downstream second transverse component 31b2.

[0106] As described above, since the electrode protection portion 31 does not have a partition wall, it is possible to suppress a situation in which the generated positive and negative ions adhere to the electrode protection portion 31 and the ion concentration decreases.

[0107] The other structures of the ion generating device 5 are the same as those of the aforementioned ion generating device 1. In addition, the air purifier 21 including the ion generating device 5 and the operation of the ion generating device 5, as well as other advantages of the ion generating device 5, are the same as those of the air purifier 21 and the ion generating device 1 including the aforementioned ion generating device 1.

[0108] [Implementation Method 6]

[0109] Further other embodiments of the present invention will be described below based on the drawings. In addition, for the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0110] (Configuration and Advantages of Ion Generator 6 and Electrode Protector 32)

[0111] Figure 9 : is a perspective view showing the structure of the ion generating device 6 as this embodiment. Figure 9 As shown, the ion generating device 6 has Figure 1 In addition to the illustrated electrode guard 15 , an electrode guard 32 is also provided.

[0112] Electrode protection portion 32 has the same length as partition plate 14 and projects from the upper end of partition plate 14 toward positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12, parallel to the upper surface of case 13 (the upper surface of resin layer 18). Electrode protection portion 32 has a plurality of openings 32a.

[0113] Since the electrode protection portion 32 is provided in addition to the electrode protection portion 15 , the ion generating apparatus 6 has a higher protection function for the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 than the ion generating apparatus 1 .

[0114] The other structures of the ion generating device 6 are the same as those of the aforementioned ion generating device 1. In addition, the air purifier 21 including the ion generating device 6, the operation of the ion generating device 6, and the other advantages of the ion generating device 6 are the same as those of the air purifier 21 including the aforementioned ion generating device 1 and the ion generating device 1.

[0115] [Implementation 7]

[0116] Further other embodiments of the present invention will be described below based on the drawings. In addition, for the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0117] (Partition plate 41)

[0118] Figure 10 (a) is a front view of the ion generating device 7 of this embodiment, Figure 10 (b) is Figure 10 (a) is a top view of the ion generating device 7 shown.

[0119] The ion generating device 7 includes a partition plate 41 in place of the partition plate 14 of the ion generating device 1. The partition plate 41 is configured so that the upstream portion is longer than the downstream portion relative to the position where a line connecting the center of the positive discharge electrode 11 and the center of the negative discharge electrode 12 intersects the partition plate 41 (hereinafter referred to as the wind flow direction discharge electrode position). Furthermore, the width of the partition plate 41 is configured so that the downstream portion is wider than the upstream portion.

[0120] (Advantages of the ion generating device 7)

[0121] In the above configuration, since the partition plate 41 is positioned at the discharge electrode position relative to the wind flow direction, with the upstream portion being longer than the downstream portion, the wind flow directed to the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 can be stabilized. This can suppress the mixing of positive and negative ions caused by wind turbulence, thereby reducing the ion concentration.

[0122] Furthermore, since the width of the partition plate 41 is wider on the downstream side than on the upstream side, the airflow passing through the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 can be prevented from merging immediately after passing through the partition plate 41. As a result, the location where the positive and negative ions mix and the ion concentration decreases is shifted to the downstream side, resulting in a high concentration of ions being supplied to the room.

[0123] In addition, the structure of the partition plate 41 of the ion generating device 7 is also applicable to other ion generating devices in the same manner.

[0124] (Configuration Example of the Induction Electrode 16)

[0125] Next, various configuration examples of the induction electrode 16 will be described below.

[0126] (Configuration Example 1)

[0127] Figure 11 1 is a plan view showing a first configuration example of induction electrode 16 . Figure 11 The sensing electrode 16 shown is, for example, Figure 1 The ion generator 1 shown is used. The induction electrode 16 is formed of a conductor (eg, copper foil) on an electrode substrate 17. The conductor is circularly removed around the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 to form a non-electrode area 19.

[0128] The diameter of non-electrode region 19 surrounding positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 is, for example, in the range of 5 to 20 mm. Furthermore, even if the surface of induction electrode 16 has exposed conductors, a resist layer can be applied. This also applies to the other configuration examples of induction electrode 16 described below.

[0129] (Configuration Example 2)

[0130] Figure 12 is a plan view showing a second configuration example of the induction electrode 16. Figure 12 In the illustrated configuration example, non-electrode region 19 is not a perfect circle but is partially cut off. In other words, induction electrode 16 is partially cut off around non-electrode region 19 .

[0131] (Configuration Example 3)

[0132] Figure 13 It is a plan view showing a third configuration example of induction electrode 16 . Figure 13 The induction electrode 16 shown has an annular portion 16a around each of the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12. These annular portions 16a are connected to each other by a connecting portion 16c. A branching portion 16h branches off from the connecting portion 16c, for example, perpendicularly.

[0133] (Configuration Example 4)

[0134] Figure 14 It is a plan view showing a fourth configuration example of induction electrode 16 . Figure 14 Induction electrode 16 shown has ring-shaped portions 16b surrounding positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12, respectively. These ring-shaped portions 16b are connected by connecting portions 16c. Branching portions 16h branch from connecting portions 16c, for example, perpendicularly. Induction electrode 16 is not a complete ring shape, but rather partially cut off.

[0135] (Configuration Example 5)

[0136] Figure 15 (a) is a top view showing a fifth configuration example having the induction electrode 16. Figure 15 (b) is Figure 15 (a) is a front view of the sensing electrode 16 shown.

[0137] Figure 15 The illustrated induction electrode 16 has a ring-shaped portion 16d surrounding each of the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12. These ring-shaped portions 16d are connected by a connecting portion 16e having a width corresponding to the diameter of the ring-shaped portion 16d. The ring-shaped portion 16d and the connecting portion 16e are formed, for example, from a conductive metal plate.

[0138] Leg portion 16f is provided below ring-shaped portion 16d and is fixed to electrode substrate 17. Therefore, ring-shaped portion 16d and connecting portion 16e are located at a higher position than the upper surface of electrode substrate 17. With this configuration, the distance between the upper ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and induction electrode 16 is shortened, making it easier for discharge to occur between the upper ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and induction electrode 16.

[0139] (Configuration Example 6)

[0140] Figure 16 (a) is a plan view showing a sixth configuration example of the induction electrode 16. Figure 16 (b) is Figure 16 (a) is a front view of the sensing electrode 16 shown.

[0141] Figure 16 The sensing electrode 16 shown is Figure 15 The structure of the sensing electrode 16 shown in FIG. 1 is obtained by removing the connecting portion 16e. Figure 15 The sensing electrodes 16 are shown similarly.

[0142] (Configuration Example 7)

[0143] Figure 17 (a) is a plan view showing a seventh configuration example of the induction electrode 16. Figure 17 (b) is Figure 17 (a) is a front view of the sensing electrode 16 shown.

[0144] Figure 17 The induction electrode 16 shown in the figure has two positive discharge electrodes 11 and two negative discharge electrodes 12. A ring-shaped portion 16d is formed around each positive discharge electrode 11 and each negative discharge electrode 12. The ring-shaped portions 16d around the positive discharge electrodes 11 and the ring-shaped portions 16d around the negative discharge electrodes 12 are connected to each other by a connecting portion 16e having a width corresponding to the diameter of the ring-shaped portion 16d. The other configurations of the induction electrode 16 of this example are similar to those of the embodiment shown in the figure, such as the provision of a leg portion 16f below the ring-shaped portion 16d. Figure 15 The sensing electrodes 16 are shown similarly.

[0145] (Verification of the effect of the partition plate)

[0146] Next, the results of verifying the effect of the partition plate will be described. Figure 18 (a) is a top view of the ion generating device 8 used to verify the effect of the partition plate. Figure 18 (b) is a front view of the ion generating device 8, Figure 18 (c) is a side view of the ion generating device 8. Figure 19 It is an explanatory diagram showing a measurement state of ion concentration for verifying the effect of the partition plate. Figure 20 (a) means Figure 19 A front view of the ion generating device 8 of the device 51 shown in the installed state, Figure 20 (b) is Figure 20 (a) D-D cross-sectional view.

[0147] (Measurement conditions of ion concentration)

[0148] like Figure 20 As shown in (a) and (b), the ion generating device 8 is installed in the air duct 51a of the device 51 so that the arrangement direction of the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 is orthogonal to the direction of the air duct 51a. The measurement point P of the ion concentration is as follows: Figure 19 As shown, it is set as a point 350 mm downwind from the ion generating device 8.

[0149] Ion generating device 8, such as Figure 18 As shown in (a) and (b), the ion generator 5 has the same electrode protection portion 31 as the aforementioned ion generator 5. In the partition plate of the ion generator 8, as shown in Figure 20 As shown in (b), four types of partition plates 42a to 42d are used.

[0150] The partition plate 42a is located between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12, and between the upstream and downstream portions of the electrode protection portion 31 (hereinafter referred to as the electrode transverse partition plate). The partition plate 42a has the same length on both the upwind and downwind sides of the discharge electrode position in the windward direction. As previously mentioned, the discharge electrode position in the windward direction is the point where the line connecting the center of the positive discharge electrode 11 and the center of the negative discharge electrode 12 intersects the partition plate 42a. Furthermore, the downstream end of the partition plate 42a is positioned approximately flush with the downstream end of the induction electrode 16 of the ion generator 8.

[0151] Partition plate 42b is a partition plate (electrode transverse + downwind partition plate) formed by extending partition plate 42a (electrode transverse partition plate) on the leeward side. Partition plate 42c is a partition plate (electrode transverse + upwind partition plate) formed by extending partition plate 42a (electrode transverse partition plate) on the upwind side. Partition plate 42d is a partition plate (upwind partition plate) formed by removing partition plate 42a (electrode transverse partition plate) from partition plate 42c (electrode transverse + upwind partition plate).

[0152] (Verification results)

[0153] Figure 21 This is an explanatory diagram showing the verification results of the effect of the partition plate. Figure 21It shows the ratio of the ion concentrations of the cases with partition plate 42a, partition plate 42b, partition plate 42c, and partition plate 42d relative to the ion concentration without partition plate in the ion generating device 8, taking the ion concentration without partition plate as the benchmark.

[0154] As from Figure 21 It can be seen that the ion concentration (positive and negative ion concentration) at measurement point P increases in each case with partitions 42a to 42d compared to the case without partitions. This indicates which of the ion generating devices 8 with partitions 42a to 42d is most effective in increasing ion concentration.

[0155] Furthermore, using the case with partition plate 42a as the reference, the ion concentration decreased with partition plate 42b and partition plate 42d, while the ion concentration increased with partition plate 42c. This indicates that, while further increasing the ion concentration, extending the upwind side of partition plate 42a, i.e., partition plate 42c, is effective.

[0156] [Embodiment 8]

[0157] Further other embodiments of the present invention will be described below based on the drawings. In addition, for the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0158] Figure 22 It is a longitudinal sectional view showing the structure of an air cleaner 61 as an air conditioner according to the present embodiment. Figure 23 Yes means installed in Figure 22 A perspective view of the ion generating device 71 of the air purifier 61 is shown.

[0159] (Configuration of the Ion Generator 71)

[0160] like Figure 22 As shown, the air purifier (equipment that can be installed with a discharge device) 61 is equipped with an ion generating device 71 in the air outlet passage 23. The ion generating device 71 is as shown in FIG. Figure 23 As shown, it is Figure 1 The ion generating apparatus 1 shown in the figure has the partition plate 14 removed. The other configurations of the ion generating apparatus 71 are the same as those of the ion generating apparatus 1. Furthermore, the ion generating apparatus 71 is not limited to the configuration in which the partition plate 14 is removed from the ion generating apparatus 1. The ion generating apparatus 71 may also have a configuration in which the partition plate 14 is removed from the ion generating apparatuses 2 to 6, or a configuration in which the partition plate 41 is removed from the ion generating apparatus 7. This also applies to the other embodiments described below.

[0161] (Structure of Air Purifier 61)

[0162] Figure 24 This is a perspective view showing a state where the ion generating device 71 is attached to the outlet air passage 23 of the air cleaner 61 . Figure 25 (a) is Figure 24 A top view of the state, Figure 25 (b) is Figure 25 FIG. 1 is a plan view of the structure of the device mounting portion 81 of the air outlet passage 23 shown in FIG. 1 (a).

[0163] like Figure 25 As shown in (b), the outlet air passage 23 of the air cleaner 61 has a device mounting portion 81. The device mounting portion 81 has a device mounting hole 82 and a partition plate (partitioning member) 83. The device mounting hole 82 penetrates the side wall (peripheral wall) of the outlet air passage 23 and opens.

[0164] In the device mounting hole 82, as Figure 24 as well as Figure 25 As shown in (a), the ion generator 71 is mounted from the back side of the air outlet passage 23. Specifically, the electrode protection portion 15 and the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 of the ion generator 71 are mounted in the device mounting hole 82. Thus, the electrode protection portion 15 and the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 protrude into the air outlet passage 23 when the ion generator 71 is mounted in the air outlet passage 23.

[0165] The partition plate 83 is provided at the upwind side of the device mounting hole 82. The partition plate 83 is a plate-shaped member that is higher than the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and whose long side is parallel to the flow direction of the wind in the blower air path 23. The center of the partition plate 83 in the width direction is located between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12 of the ion generating device 71 mounted in the device mounting hole 82. The width of the partition plate 83 is wider in the downstream side portion of the wind flow than in the upstream side portion. In addition, the downstream side end of the partition plate 83 in the wind flow extends to the vicinity of the upstream side end of the device mounting hole 82. The other structures of the air purifier 61 are the same as those of the air purifier 21.

[0166] (Operation and Advantages of Air Purifier 61)

[0167] In the above-described configuration, the basic operation of the air cleaner 61 is the same as that of the aforementioned air cleaner 21 .

[0168] The air purifier 61 has a device mounting portion 81, and the ion generating device 71 can be detached from the device mounting portion 81. Therefore, the air purifier 61 can easily operate when the function of the ion generating device 71 mounted on the device mounting portion 81 is reduced or when the ion generating device 71 fails, and when maintenance and repair of the ion generating device 71 is required.

[0169] Furthermore, the air cleaner 61 includes a partition plate 83 in the device mounting portion 81. This eliminates the need for the ion generating device 71 to include a partition plate 83, and allows for a simpler structure.

[0170] Furthermore, since the partition plate 83 extends upstream of the flow of wind toward the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 when the ion generating device 71 is mounted on the device mounting portion 81, the flow of wind toward the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 can be stabilized. This can prevent the mixing of positive and negative ions caused by wind turbulence, thereby reducing ion concentration.

[0171] Furthermore, since the downstream portion of the partition plate 83 where the wind flows is wider than the upstream portion, the flow of wind blown to the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 is stabilized.

[0172] Furthermore, the downstream end of the partition plate 83 extends to near the upstream end of the device mounting hole 82, and is located upstream of the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12. This prevents the positive and negative ions generated from the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 from decreasing their ion concentration due to the partition plate 83.

[0173] In addition, in the air purifier 61 of the present embodiment, the ion generating device 71 is directly mounted on the device mounting portion 81 of the air outlet duct 23. However, the air purifier 61 may also include a mounting auxiliary tool, the ion generating device 71 is mounted on the mounting auxiliary tool, and the mounting auxiliary tool with the ion generating device 71 mounted thereon is mounted on the air outlet duct 23. In this case, the mounting auxiliary tool includes the device mounting portion 81, and the device mounting portion 81 has a device mounting hole 82 and a partition plate 83, and an opening portion for mounting the mounting auxiliary tool is provided in the air outlet duct 23. This point is also the same in the following other embodiments.

[0174] [Implementation Method 9]

[0175] Further other embodiments of the present invention will be described below based on the drawings. In addition, for the sake of convenience, components having the same functions as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description will not be repeated.

[0176] (Structure of Air Purifier 62)

[0177] Figure 26 It is a plan view showing the configuration of a device mounting portion 81 of the outlet air duct 23 of the air cleaner 62 as the air conditioner according to the present embodiment.

[0178] The air cleaner 62 of this embodiment includes a device mounting portion 84 in place of the aforementioned device mounting portion 81. The device mounting portion 84 includes a partition plate (partition member) 85 in place of the aforementioned device mounting hole 82 and the aforementioned partition plate 83.

[0179] The downstream end of the partition plate 85, in relation to the wind flow, extends downstream from between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12 when the ion generating device 71 is mounted on the device mounting portion 84. Specifically, the partition plate 85, like the partition plate 14, is located between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12. The downstream end of the partition plate 85 is located at the same position as the most downstream end of the electrodes (the most downstream end of the downstream ends of the positive and negative discharge electrodes 11 and 12 and the induction electrode 16), or upstream of the most downstream end of the electrodes.

[0180] The other structures of the partition plate 85 and the device mounting portion 84 are the same as those of the partition plate 83 and the device mounting portion 81 , and the other structures of the air cleaner 62 are the same as those of the air cleaner 61 .

[0181] (Operation and Advantages of Air Purifier 62)

[0182] In the above-described configuration, the basic operation of the air cleaner 62 is the same as that of the aforementioned air cleaner 21 .

[0183] In air cleaner (62), the downstream end of partition plate (85) is located at the same position as, or upstream of, the most downstream end of the downstream ends of positive and negative discharge electrodes (11, 12) and induction electrode (16). The advantages of air cleaner (62) resulting from this are similar to those of partition plate (14) having this configuration, as described below.

[0184] That is, in the air cleaner 62 , the partition plate 85 is present between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12 , which makes it difficult for the generated positive and negative ions to mix with each other, thereby suppressing a decrease in the ion concentration of the positive and negative ions.

[0185] In the air cleaner 62 , the partition plate 85 is provided between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12 , thereby narrowing the gap between the positive discharge electrode 11 and the negative discharge electrode 12 of the ion generator 71 used, thereby enabling the ion generator 71 to be miniaturized.

[0186] In addition, in the air purifier 62, since the downstream end of the partition plate 85 is located at the same position as the most downstream end of the electrode or upstream of the most downstream end of the electrode, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of positive and negative ions that have been generated adhering to the partition plate 85 and thus reducing the ion concentration. Other advantages of the air purifier 62 are the same as those of the aforementioned air purifier 61.

[0187] [Summarize]

[0188] According to a first aspect of the present invention, equipment capable of mounting a discharge device comprises: an air duct having an outlet leading to the exterior of the device; and an air supply device for blowing air into the air duct, wherein a device mounting portion is provided in the air duct, and wherein a discharge device is mounted in the device mounting portion. The discharge device generates first and second discharge products by discharge between first and second discharge electrodes and a third electrode; the device mounting portion having a device mounting hole so that the first and second discharge electrodes protrude into the air duct in an arrangement intersecting the direction of the air flow; and a partition member extending parallel to the direction of the air flow, wherein an upstream end portion of the air flow is located between the first and second discharge electrodes in the arrangement direction of the first and second discharge electrodes, and wherein the partition member is located upstream of the device mounting hole in the air duct.

[0189] The discharge device-mountable equipment according to claim 2 of the present invention may be such that, in the above-mentioned claim 1, the partition member is wider at a downstream side portion of the wind flow than at an upstream side portion.

[0190] The equipment capable of mounting a discharge device according to claim 3 of the present invention may be such that, in the above-mentioned claim 1 or 2, the downstream end of the wind flow in the partition member is located upstream of the device mounting hole.

[0191] The discharge device-mountable equipment according to claim 4 of the present invention may be such that, in the above-mentioned claim 1 or 2, a portion of the partition member that is closer to the downstream side than the upstream side end is located between the first discharge electrode and the second discharge electrode.

[0192] The discharge device-mountable device according to claim 5 of the present invention may be any one of claims 1, 2, and 4, wherein the downstream end of the wind flow in the partition member is located at the same position as or upstream of the most downstream end, and the most downstream end is located most downstream of the downstream ends of the first and second discharge electrodes and the third electrode.

[0193] Description of Reference Numerals

[0194] 1-7… ion generating device (discharge device); 11… positive discharge electrode (first discharge electrode); 12… negative discharge electrode (second discharge electrode); 13… housing; 14, 41… partition plate; 15, 31, 32… electrode protection portion; 15a, 31c… opening; 15b, 31b… horizontal member; 15c, 31a… vertical member; 15c1, 31a1… first vertical member; 15c2, 31a2… second vertical member; 1 6…sensing electrode (third electrode); 21…air purifier; 22…housing; 23…blowing air path (air path); 23a…blowing outlet; 24…air blower; 31b1…first horizontal member; 31b2…second horizontal member; 51…device; 61, 62…air purifier (device capable of installing a discharge device); 71…ion generating device; 81, 84…device mounting portion; 82…device mounting hole; 83, 85…partition plate (partition member).

Claims

1. A device capable of being equipped with a discharge device, comprising: An air passage having an outlet leading to the outside of the machine; as well as The air supply device blows air to the air passage, and is characterized in that: A device installation portion is provided in the air passage, and a discharge device is installed in the device installation portion. The discharge device generates first and second discharge products by discharge between the first and second discharge electrodes and the third electrode; The device installation portion has: a device mounting hole, so that the first and second discharge electrodes protrude into the air passage in a manner arranged in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the wind; as well as A partition member extends parallel to the flow direction of the wind and is located between the first and second discharge electrodes, and the partition member is located upstream of the device mounting hole in the wind path. The first and second discharge electrodes and the third electrode are located in the device mounting hole. The partition member has a downstream end portion in the wind flow direction located at the same position as a most downstream end portion or located upstream of the most downstream end portion, and the most downstream end portion is located on the most downstream side of the downstream ends of the first and second discharge electrodes and the third electrode.

2. The device capable of being installed with a discharge device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The downstream portion of the partition member in the wind flow direction is wider than the upstream portion.

3. The device capable of being installed with a discharge device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: In the partition member, a downstream end portion along the wind flow direction is located upstream of the device mounting hole.

4. The device capable of being installed with a discharge device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A downstream portion of the partition member relative to the upstream end portion is located between the first and second discharge electrodes.

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