Disinfection generating device, humidifying sterilizer, and control method thereof

By incorporating valve and humidification membrane components into the disinfection generator, the problem of frequent sink cleaning is solved. Salt is transferred to the humidification membrane component, keeping the sink clean and improving user satisfaction.

CN116164372BActive Publication Date: 2026-07-14GD MIDEA AIR CONDITIONING EQUIP CO LTD +1

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
GD MIDEA AIR CONDITIONING EQUIP CO LTD
Filing Date
2021-11-24
Publication Date
2026-07-14

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    Figure CN116164372B_ABST
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Abstract

The application discloses a disinfection generating device, a humidifying sterilizer and a control method thereof. The disinfection generating device comprises a water tank provided with a liquid outlet, a water tank corresponding to the liquid outlet, a valve assembly for connecting or disconnecting the liquid outlet and the water tank, an electrolysis module arranged in the water tank for electrolyzing the solution in the water tank, and a humidifying membrane assembly arranged in the water tank for adsorbing the solution in the water tank. The technical scheme of the application can reduce the operation frequency of the user in cleaning the water tank under the premise of keeping the water tank clean.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of air treatment, and in particular to a disinfection generating device, a humidifier disinfector, and a control method thereof. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, the disinfection generating device includes a water tank, a water trough, and an electrolysis module located within the water trough. The water tank and the water trough are connected. During use, salt granules (sodium chloride) are added to the water trough, and water is injected into the trough through the water tank to form a brine solution (sodium chloride solution). The electrolysis module then electrolyzes the brine solution into a disinfectant solution (sodium hypochlorite solution). After completing the electrolytic disinfection process, the water trough needs to be cleaned promptly; otherwise, salt accumulation in the trough will increase the concentration of the disinfectant solution, and bacteria will easily grow in the trough. In actual use, users have to clean the water trough every time they add water, resulting in frequent operation and reduced user satisfaction. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The main objective of this invention is to provide a disinfection generating device that aims to reduce the frequency of sink cleaning by the user while keeping the sink clean.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a disinfection generating device comprising:

[0005] The water tank is equipped with a liquid outlet;

[0006] A water tank is provided corresponding to the liquid outlet;

[0007] A valve assembly for connecting or disconnecting the liquid outlet from the water tank;

[0008] An electrolysis module, located within the water tank, is used to electrolyze the solution within the water tank; and

[0009] A humidifying membrane assembly is disposed in the water tank and is used to adsorb the solution in the water tank.

[0010] Preferably, the humidifying membrane assembly includes a rotating wheel, an adsorption membrane, and a power component. The adsorption membrane is disposed on the rotating wheel, and the power component is drivenly connected to the rotating wheel to drive the rotating wheel to rotate.

[0011] Preferably, the disinfection generating device further includes a liquid level detection element, which is used to detect the liquid level in the water tank.

[0012] Preferably, the valve assembly includes a plugging element and a drive unit. The plugging element is movably disposed at the liquid outlet and has a first position for blocking the liquid outlet and a second position for opening the liquid outlet. The drive unit is used to drive the plugging element to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0013] Preferably, the driving unit includes a pusher and a driving member. The pusher is movably mounted on the water tank, the sealing member is connected to the pusher, and the driving member is used to drive the pusher to move so as to switch the sealing member from the first position to the second position.

[0014] Preferably, the drive unit further includes an elastic element disposed between the pusher and the water tank. The elastic element can drive the pusher to reset after the external force is removed, so that the sealing member returns to the first position.

[0015] Preferably, the outlet is located at the bottom of the water tank, and the bottom wall of the water tank has a through hole opposite to the outlet. A tube is provided around the periphery of the through hole. The pushing member includes a push rod and a cover around the push rod. The cover covers the end of the tube. The upper end of the push rod extends toward the outlet, and the lower end extends toward the through hole. The sealing member is connected to the upper end of the push rod. The driving member is installed at the bottom of the water tank. The driving member includes a power source and a driving rod connected to the power source. The driving rod can act on the push rod through the through hole.

[0016] Preferably, the water tank includes a tank body and an end cap. The bottom of the tank body is provided with a water outlet port. The end cap includes a cylindrical body and a partition disposed inside the cylindrical body. The cylindrical body is connected to the periphery of the water outlet port. The partition is disposed opposite to the water outlet port. The liquid outlet is opened on the partition. A receiving cavity for accommodating the pusher is formed inside the cylindrical body below the partition.

[0017] The present invention also proposes a humidifier and sterilizer, comprising:

[0018] The casing is equipped with an air inlet and an air outlet;

[0019] An air duct component, disposed within the housing, is used to guide airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet;

[0020] The disinfection generating device described above is disposed within the housing and located on the air inlet side of the air duct component; and

[0021] The control module is electrically connected to the air duct component and the disinfection generator.

[0022] The present invention also proposes a control method for a humidifier and sterilizer, used in the humidifier and sterilizer described above, the control method comprising the following steps:

[0023] Receive humidification and disinfection instructions;

[0024] The control valve assembly opens to inject the solution from the water tank into the water bath;

[0025] After the first preset time, the valve assembly is closed and the electrolysis module is turned on to electrolyze the solution in the water tank into disinfectant.

[0026] After the second preset time period, the electrolysis module is controlled to stop working, and the humidification membrane assembly and air duct components are controlled to operate to perform humidification and disinfection operations.

[0027] After humidification and disinfection are completed, the humidification membrane assembly is controlled to continue operating, and the air duct component is controlled to switch to low-speed operation.

[0028] The liquid level detection element detects the liquid level in the water tank in real time;

[0029] When the water level in the water tank is detected to be lower than a preset value, the humidification membrane assembly and the air duct component are controlled to continue operating for a third preset time before stopping.

[0030] The technical solution of this invention involves a valve assembly between the outlet of the water tank and the water tank, and an electrolysis module and a humidification membrane assembly installed inside the water tank. When humidification and disinfection are required, the valve assembly opens, allowing the solution in the water tank (e.g., sodium chloride solution) to flow into the water tank from the outlet, adding an appropriate amount of salt solution. After a preset time, the valve assembly closes, and the electrolysis module operates, electrolyzing the salt solution in the water tank into a disinfectant (e.g., sodium hypochlorite solution). After electrolysis, the disinfectant is adsorbed by the humidification membrane assembly. When air flows through the humidifying membrane assembly, the disinfectant solution in the water tank is carried away by the airflow, thus disinfecting indoor air and object surfaces. After humidification and disinfection, the humidifying membrane assembly continues to absorb any remaining disinfectant solution in the water tank until it is completely dry. After the water evaporates, the salt is collected on the humidifying membrane assembly. This prevents salt buildup and increased disinfectant concentration, and also prevents bacterial growth in the water tank. This technical solution transfers the salt from the water tank to the humidifying membrane assembly, keeping the water tank clean while reducing the frequency of user cleaning and improving user satisfaction. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the humidifier and sterilizer of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another state of the humidifier and sterilizer;

[0034] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the humidifier and sterilizer in the image;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the disinfection generating device of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of another state of the disinfection generating device;

[0037] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A cross-sectional structural diagram of the disinfection generating device in the diagram;

[0038] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle;

[0039] Figure 8 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the disinfection generator without the water tank and valve assembly;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the control method for the humidifier and sterilizer of the present invention.

[0041] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0042] label name label name 100 Humidifier sterilizer 1322 Cover 10 Disinfection generating device 133 Drive components 11 water tank 1331 Power source 110 Liquid outlet 1332 drive lever 111 Box 134 elastic element 112 End cap 14 Electrolysis module 1121 cylinder 15 Humidification membrane assembly 1122 partition 151 Rotary wheel 12 sink 152 Adsorption membrane 121 Through hole 20 case 122 tube body 21 air inlet 13 Valve assembly 22 air vent 131 sealing components 30 Duct components 132 Pushing component 40 Control module 1321 mandrel

[0043] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0045] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0046] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0047] The present invention proposes a disinfection generating device 10.

[0048] Please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 6 In one embodiment of the present invention, the disinfection generating device 10 includes a water tank 11, a water trough 12, a valve assembly 13, an electrolysis module 14, and a humidifying membrane assembly 15. The water tank 11 is provided with a liquid outlet 110; the water trough 12 is correspondingly arranged with respect to the liquid outlet 110; the valve assembly 13 is used to connect or disconnect the liquid outlet 110 from the water trough 12; the electrolysis module 14 is disposed within the water trough 12 and is used to electrolyze the solution within the water trough 12; the humidifying membrane assembly 15 is disposed within the water trough 12 and is used to adsorb the solution within the water trough 12.

[0049] Specifically, in this embodiment, such as Figure 1 and Figure 8As shown, the water tank 12 includes a bottom wall and side walls surrounding the bottom wall. Inside the water tank 12 are a first tank for placing the electrolysis module 14 and a second tank for placing the humidifying membrane assembly 15. The first and second tanks are interconnected and extend in two different directions, giving the water tank 12 a generally "L"-shaped structure. The first tank also has two support seats for supporting the water tank 11, spaced apart. In use, the water tank 11 is placed on the support seats, with its outlet 110 facing downwards and located between the two support seats. The water tank 11 is located inside the water tank 12, improving the overall integrity of the disinfection generator 10. Furthermore, the water tank 11 and the water tank 12 are independent and separable, allowing the water tank 11 to be easily removed from the water tank 12 for replacement or cleaning. The water tank 11 is generally made of plastic, making it lightweight and easy to move. Optionally, a handle is provided on the top of the water tank 11 so that the user can hold the handle and lift the water tank 11, improving the portability of the water tank 11. A valve assembly 13 is located at the outlet 110. When the valve assembly 13 is open, the outlet 110 of the water tank 11 is connected to the water tank 12, and the solution in the water tank 11 can be injected into the water tank 12 from the outlet 110. When the valve assembly 13 is closed, the outlet 110 is disconnected from the water tank 12, and the water tank 11 stops injecting solution into the water tank 12. The valve assembly 13 can be a manually controlled valve or an electrically controlled valve. Optionally, in this embodiment, the valve assembly 13 is an electrically controlled valve, which can achieve automatic control according to a preset program, resulting in more accurate and timely control.

[0050] The aforementioned disinfection generating device 10, by controlling the opening and closing of the valve assembly 13, can connect or disconnect the outlet 110 of the water tank 11 from the water tank 12 as needed, thereby achieving timed and quantitative injection of solution into the water tank 12. The solution stored in the water tank 11 can be an aqueous solution or a pre-prepared salt solution. For example, if the water tank 11 stores an aqueous solution, salt particles are pre-added to the water tank 12. When water from the water tank 11 is injected into the water tank 12, the salt particles dissolve to form a salt solution, which is then electrolyzed into a disinfectant solution by the electrolysis module 14. Alternatively, if the water tank 11 stores a salt solution, the salt solution in the water tank 11 is injected into the water tank 12 through the outlet 110, and then the disinfectant solution is generated by electrolysis by the electrolysis module 14 in the water tank 12. After the disinfectant solution is prepared, the humidifying membrane assembly 15 adsorbs the disinfectant solution in the water tank 12 and, driven by airflow, evaporates and diffuses the disinfectant solution into the room or onto object surfaces, completing the humidification and disinfection operation.

[0051] The technical solution of this invention involves a valve assembly 13 located between the outlet 110 of the water tank 11 and the water tank 12, and an electrolysis module 14 and a humidifying membrane assembly 15 installed inside the water tank 12. When humidification and disinfection are required, the valve assembly 13 opens, allowing the salt solution (e.g., sodium chloride solution) in the water tank 11 to flow into the water tank 12 from the outlet 110, adding an appropriate amount of salt solution to the water tank 12. After a preset time, the valve assembly 13 closes, and the electrolysis module 14 begins operation, electrolyzing the salt solution in the water tank 12 into a disinfectant (e.g., sodium hypochlorite solution). After electrolysis, the disinfectant in the water tank 12 is absorbed by the humidifying membrane assembly 15, and when flowing air passes through... When the humidifying membrane component 15 is in use, the disinfectant on it can be carried away by the airflow, thereby disinfecting and sterilizing indoor air and object surfaces, and increasing air humidity to enhance user comfort. After the humidification and disinfection operation is completed, the humidifying membrane component 15 continues to absorb the residual disinfectant in the water tank 12 until it has completely absorbed the disinfectant. After the water in the disinfectant evaporates, the salt can be collected on the humidifying membrane component 15. In this way, the salt in the water tank 12 is transferred to the humidifying membrane component 15, which avoids the accumulation of salt in the water tank 12 and the resulting increase in disinfectant concentration, and also prevents the growth of bacteria in the water tank 12. The above technical solution, by transferring the salt in the water tank 12 to the humidifying membrane component 15, can keep the water tank 12 clean while reducing the frequency of user cleaning of the water tank 12, thus improving user satisfaction.

[0052] Optionally, in this embodiment, the water tank 11 is used to store a salt solution. When the valve assembly 13 is opened, the salt solution in the water tank 11 is injected into the water tank 12 through the outlet 110. When the liquid level in the water tank 12 reaches a first preset level, the valve assembly 13 is closed, the outlet 110 of the water tank 11 is isolated from the water tank 12, and the water tank 11 stops injecting solution into the water tank 12. Then, the electrolysis module 14 in the water tank 12 starts working, and the salt solution in the water tank 12 is electrolyzed into disinfectant through the electrolysis action of the electrolysis module 14. By controlling the valve assembly 13, the water tank 11 can inject a preset amount of salt solution into the water tank 12 at regular intervals and in a fixed quantity. The electrolysis module 14 can stop working after electrolyzing the preset amount of salt solution, instead of working continuously until all the salt solution in the water tank 11 is electrolyzed. In this way, the service life of the electrolysis module 14 can be extended. Optionally, the water tank 11 is also provided with a material inlet separate from the liquid outlet 110. Materials (such as solid salt granules and water) can be conveniently added into the water tank 11 through the material inlet, thereby preparing a salt solution in the water tank 11. It is understood that in other embodiments, the material inlet may be omitted, and materials can be added directly through the liquid outlet 110.

[0053] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 As shown, the humidifying membrane assembly 15 includes a rotating wheel 151, an adsorption membrane 152, and a power component. The adsorption membrane 152 is disposed on the rotating wheel 151, and the power component is drivenly connected to the rotating wheel 151 to drive the rotating wheel 151 to rotate. Specifically, the rotating wheel 151 can be rotatably mounted in the water tank 12 via a bracket. The rotating wheel 151 includes a wheel body and multiple spokes extending circumferentially from the center of the wheel body. The rotating wheel 151 is placed vertically and can rotate around a horizontal axis. The bottom of the rotating wheel 151 is located inside the water tank 12, and the adsorption membrane 152 is fixed on the rotating wheel 151. The adsorption membrane 152 can be made of a mesh membrane or a porous membrane with good hygroscopicity. Optionally, the adsorption membrane 152 adopts a mesh structure, which facilitates the rapid and smooth passage of airflow through the adsorption membrane 152, and the mesh structure facilitates the rapid evaporation of liquid on the adsorption membrane 152, thereby improving the humidification and disinfection efficiency. Optionally, the power component is driven to rotate the wheel 151 around its shaft. One rotation of the wheel 151 ensures that the adsorption membrane 152 is fully saturated, guaranteeing rapid and thorough saturation of the disinfectant solution and achieving a good adsorption effect. This improves humidification and disinfection efficiency and enhances user satisfaction. For example, the power component can be a drive motor, directly connected to one end of the wheel 151's shaft, resulting in a simple overall structure and small footprint. Alternatively, in other embodiments, power can be transmitted between the power component and the wheel 151 via a transmission assembly (e.g., a gear assembly or a timing belt).

[0054] During humidification and disinfection, the bottom of the adsorption membrane 152 is immersed in the disinfectant solution in the water tank 12. The disinfectant solution spreads upwards along the adsorption membrane 152. Simultaneously, the rotating wheel 151 is driven by a power component to rotate, which in turn drives the adsorption membrane 152 to rotate as well. This ensures that different parts of the adsorption membrane 152 are fully immersed and adsorb the disinfectant solution. Furthermore, the rotation of the rotating wheel 151 ensures rapid and uniform immersion of the adsorption membrane 152, thereby increasing the adsorption capacity and uniformity, and ultimately improving adsorption efficiency. When airflow passes through the adsorption membrane 152, the rotation of the rotating wheel 151 also accelerates the evaporation of the disinfectant solution. The airflow then blows the evaporated disinfectant solution into the room and onto object surfaces to humidify and disinfect the indoor environment or object surfaces, improving environmental comfort. After the humidification and disinfection operation is completed, the power unit continues to drive the rotor 151 to rotate, causing the adsorption membrane 152 to continue adsorbing the residual disinfectant in the water tank 12. This transfers and collects the salt in the water tank 12 onto the adsorption membrane 152, thus preventing salt accumulation in the water tank 12, preventing bacterial growth, and reducing the frequency of cleaning the water tank 12, thereby improving user satisfaction. Because the adsorption membrane 152 has a large adsorption area, it can accumulate a significant amount of salt, eliminating the need for frequent replacement. Replacement is only required when the salt accumulation on the adsorption membrane 152 reaches a certain level. For example, users can replace the adsorption membrane 152 every three to six months, greatly reducing the frequency of operation and improving user satisfaction.

[0055] Furthermore, the disinfection generating device 10 also includes a liquid level detection element, which is used to detect the liquid level in the water tank 12. Real-time detection of the liquid level in the water tank 12 by the liquid level detection element allows for judgment of the liquid level situation in the water tank 12, thus providing a reference for the subsequent control process of the disinfection generating device 10. For example, after the humidification disinfection operation is completed, the rotor 151 of the humidification membrane assembly 15 continues to rotate, and the adsorption membrane 152 continues to adsorb the residual disinfectant in the water tank 12. When the liquid level detection element detects that the liquid level in the water tank 12 is zero, that is, it is determined that the disinfectant in the water tank 12 has been emptied and is in a water-deficient state, the liquid level detection element sends a corresponding signal to the control module 40, and the control module 40 controls the rotor 151 to continue running for a preset period of time before stopping. The liquid level detection element includes, but is not limited to, contact liquid level sensors or non-contact liquid level sensors for liquid level detection, such as capacitive liquid level sensors, float liquid level sensors, photoelectric liquid level sensors, etc.

[0056] Furthermore, the disinfection generating device 10 also includes a water tank level detection element, which is used to detect the liquid level in the water tank 11. Real-time detection of the liquid level in the water tank 11 by the water tank level detection element facilitates timely monitoring of the liquid level information. Optionally, the disinfection generating device 10 also includes an alarm electrically connected to the water tank level detection element. When the water tank level detection element detects that the liquid level in the water tank 11 is lower than a preset level, the alarm sounds an alarm signal to remind the user to replenish the solution in the water tank 11 in a timely manner. Similarly, the water tank level detection element includes, but is not limited to, contact level sensors or non-contact level sensors for liquid level detection, such as capacitive level sensors, float level sensors, and photoelectric level sensors.

[0057] Furthermore, please combine Figure 6 and Figure 7 The valve assembly 13 includes a plugging member 131 and a drive unit. The plugging member 131 is movably disposed at the liquid outlet 110. The plugging member 131 has a first position that blocks the liquid outlet 110 and a second position that opens the liquid outlet 110. The drive unit is used to drive the plugging member 131 to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0058] Specifically, in the initial state, the sealing member 131 is in the first position to block the liquid outlet 110. When it is necessary to inject the solution in the water tank 11 into the water tank 12, the drive unit drives the sealing member 131 to switch from the first position to the second position. At this time, the sealing member 131 opens the liquid outlet 110, and the solution in the water tank 11 can be injected into the water tank 12 from the liquid outlet 110. When the solution in the water tank 12 reaches a preset amount, the drive unit drives the sealing member 131 to return to the first position, and the sealing member 131 closes the liquid outlet 110. Optionally, the sealing member 131 can be made of an elastic sealing material, such as rubber or silicone. When the sealing member 131 is in the first position, the sealing member 131 elastically abuts against the periphery of the liquid outlet 110, which can ensure good sealing performance. The driving unit and the sealing member 131 can be directly driven, or the driving unit can indirectly drive the sealing member 131 through the transmission unit, both of which are within the protection scope of this application.

[0059] Further, the driving unit includes a pushing member 132 and a driving member 133. The pushing member 132 is movably mounted on the water tank 11. The sealing member 131 is connected to the pushing member 132. The driving member 133 is used to drive the pushing member 132 to move, thereby causing the sealing member 131 to switch from the first position to the second position. Specifically, as shown... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the pusher 132 can move up and down relative to the outlet 110. The sealing member 131 is connected to the top of the pusher 132, and the drive member 133 is used to drive the bottom of the pusher 132. When it is necessary to open the outlet 110, the drive member 133 applies an upward force to the pusher 132, causing the pusher 132 to move upward. The pusher 132 drives the sealing member 131 to move upward to the second position. In the second position, the sealing member 131 separates from the periphery of the outlet 110, thereby opening the outlet 110.

[0060] Optionally, the sealing member 131 includes a sleeve portion fitted around the outer periphery of the push rod 1321 of the push member 132, and a sealing cap disposed around the sleeve portion, the sealing cap being flared upwards in a trumpet shape. In the first position, the peripheral surface of the sealing cap abuts against the periphery of the liquid outlet 110, thereby closing the liquid outlet 110. Optionally, the outer periphery of the push rod 1321 is provided with an annular groove adapted to the sleeve portion of the sealing member 131, thereby ensuring the assembly stability of the sealing member 131 and the push rod 1321.

[0061] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 As shown, the driving unit further includes an elastic element 134, which is disposed between the push member 132 and the water tank 11. The elastic element 134 can drive the push member 132 to reset after the external force is removed, so that the sealing member 131 returns to the first position. Specifically, the elastic element 134 can expand and contract along the movement direction of the push member 132. The elastic element 134 includes, but is not limited to, compression springs, elastic rubber columns, or wave springs. For example, in this embodiment, the elastic element 134 is a compression spring sleeved around the push rod 1321 of the push member 132. During the upward movement of the pusher 132 driven by the drive member 133, the elastic member 134 is compressed and deformed by the compressive force, and the pusher 132 can drive the sealing member 131 to the second position. When the force exerted by the drive member 133 on the pusher 132 is removed, the elastic member 134 recovers its deformation from the compressed state, thereby driving the pusher 132 to move downward and reset, and then driving the sealing member 131 to return from the second position to the first position. In this way, when it is necessary to close the outlet 110, no additional power is required from the drive member 133, and the sealing member 131 can be automatically reset by the elastic member 134, which can save the energy consumption of the drive member 133 and reduce costs.

[0062] Furthermore, please combine Figure 6 and Figure 7 The outlet 110 is located at the bottom of the water tank 11. The bottom wall of the water tank 12 has a through hole 121 opposite to the outlet 110. The periphery of the through hole 121 has a tube 122 extending toward the outlet 110. The pusher 132 includes a push rod 1321 and a cover 1322 located around the push rod 1321. The cover 1322 covers the end of the tube 122. The upper end of the push rod 1321 extends toward the outlet 110, and the lower end of the push rod 1321 extends toward... Extending towards the through hole 121, the sealing member 131 is connected to the upper end of the top rod 1321, and the driving member 133 is installed at the bottom of the water tank 12. The driving member 133 includes a power source 1331 and a driving rod 1332 connected to the power source 1331. The driving rod 1332 can act on the top rod 1321 through the through hole 121. The power source 1331 is used to drive the driving rod 1332 to move, thereby driving the top rod 1321 and the sealing member 131 to move.

[0063] Specifically, when it is necessary to open the outlet 110, the power source 1331 provides driving force to the drive rod 1332. The drive rod 1332 extends into the through hole 121 and applies an upward thrust to the push rod 1321, thereby causing the push rod 1321 to move the sealing member 131 upward to the second position. Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the power source 1331 is a drive motor located at the bottom of the water tank 12. The output shaft of the drive motor extends laterally, and the drive rod 1332 is connected to the output shaft of the drive motor. The drive motor drives the drive rod 1332 to rotate. During the rotation of the drive rod 1332, it acts on the bottom end of the push rod 1321 and pushes the push rod 1321 upward. Then, the push rod 1321 drives the sealing member 131 to move to the second position. The power source 1331 can specifically be a drive motor. With the above structural design, the overall structure of the drive member 133 is more compact and occupies less space. Of course, in other embodiments, other driving forms can also be used between the power source 1331 and the drive rod 1332. For example, the power source 1331 can be a linear cylinder or an electric push rod. The power source 1331 provides a linear driving force in the vertical direction to the drive rod 1332, so that the drive rod 1332 moves linearly in the vertical direction and acts on the push rod 1321. Alternatively, if the output of the power source 1331 can directly act on the push rod 1321, the drive rod 1332 can be omitted. Furthermore, the power source 1331 and the drive rod 1332 can be directly driven; or a transmission structure can be used to achieve indirect drive between the power source 1331 and the drive rod 1332.

[0064] In addition, such as Figure 7As shown, in this embodiment, a cover 1322 is provided around the top rod 1321, covering the end of the tube 122. The cover 1322 can block the outlet 110 from the through hole 121. Thus, when the outlet 110 is opened, the solution in the water tank 11 falls from the outlet 110 onto the cover 1322 under the action of gravity, and then slides down the outer surface of the cover 1322 into the water tank 12, preventing the solution from flowing out of the through hole 121 when the outlet 110 is opened. Optionally, the cover 1322 and the top rod 1321 are integrally formed. Specifically, the cover 1322 includes an end plate disposed opposite to the end face of the tube 122, and a cover sleeve extending downward from the periphery of the end plate, the cover sleeve being fitted around the tube 122. The tube body 122 includes a frustum-shaped tube segment extending upward from the periphery of the through hole 121 and contracting inward, and a cylindrical tube segment extending upward from the periphery of the frustum-shaped tube segment. The drive rod 1332 is located inside the frustum-shaped tube segment, and the lower end of the push rod 1321 extends into the cylindrical tube segment. The space inside the frustum-shaped tube segment is relatively large. The power source 1331 drives the drive rod 1332 to rotate inside the frustum-shaped tube segment, thereby enabling the drive rod 1332 to push the push rod 1321 upward. In this way, the sealing member 131 can be driven to move with a relatively small operating stroke.

[0065] Furthermore, please combine Figure 6 and Figure 7 The water tank 11 includes a tank body 111 and an end cap 112. The bottom of the tank body 111 is provided with a water outlet port. The end cap 112 includes a cylindrical body 1121 and a partition 1122 disposed inside the cylindrical body 1121. The cylindrical body 1121 is connected to the periphery of the water outlet port. The partition 1122 is disposed opposite to the water outlet port. The liquid outlet 110 is opened in the partition 1122. A receiving cavity for accommodating the pusher 132 is formed inside the cylindrical body 1121 corresponding to the lower part of the partition 1122.

[0066] Specifically, the housing 111 and the end cap 112 are detachably connected, including but not limited to threaded connections and snap-fit ​​connections. In this embodiment, the housing 111 and the end cap 112 are connected by threads. The outer circumferential surface of the outlet port of the housing 111 is provided with external threads, and the inner circumferential surface of the end cap 112 is provided with internal threads that are compatible with the external threads. The end cap 112 and the housing 111 can be tightened or removed by screwing, making the assembly and disassembly of the housing 111 and the end cap 112 simple and convenient. A receiving cavity is formed inside the cylinder 1121 corresponding to the lower part of the partition 1122. The pusher 132 is housed in the receiving cavity of the cylinder 1121. The push rod 1321 of the pusher 132 extends vertically upward to the liquid outlet 110, and the sealing member 131 is connected to the upper end of the push rod 1321. The cylinder 1121 serves to install and guide the pusher 132, which can move up and down along the axial direction of the cylinder 1121 under external force, thereby causing the sealing member 131 to open or close the outlet 110. Optionally, the cylinder 1121 and the partition 1122 are integrally formed. Optionally, the elastic member 134 is sleeved on the periphery of the pusher 1321, with one end of the elastic member 134 elastically abutting against the partition 1122 and the other end elastically abutting against the cover 1322 of the pusher 132. The pusher 1321 can also guide the extension and retraction of the elastic member 134 to prevent the elastic member 134 from deflecting under external force.

[0067] Please refer to Figures 1 to 3 The present invention also proposes a humidifier and sterilizer 100. The humidifier and sterilizer 100 includes a housing 20, an air duct component 30, a sterilization generator 10, and a control module 40. The housing 20 has an air inlet 21 and an air outlet 22; the air duct component 30 is disposed within the housing 20 and is used to guide airflow from the air inlet 21 to the air outlet 22; the sterilization generator 10 is disposed within the housing 20 and is located on the air inlet side of the air duct component 30; the control module 40 is electrically connected to the air duct component 30 and the sterilization generator 10. The specific structure of the sterilization generator 10 is as described in the above embodiments. Since the humidifier and sterilizer 100 adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it possesses at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be elaborated further here.

[0068] Specifically, the housing 20 constitutes the main body shape of the humidifier and sterilizer 100. The housing 20 can be configured as a square, cylindrical, or other irregular shape according to actual needs. An installation cavity is formed inside the housing 20 for installing the air duct component 30, the sterilization generator 10, and the control module 40. The housing 20 is provided with an air inlet 21 and an air outlet 22. The number of air inlets 21 and air outlets 22 can be one, two, or more. For example, in this embodiment, the housing 20 is generally square in shape. The housing includes a panel and two side plates disposed on the left and right sides of the panel. The panel of the housing 20 is provided with an air outlet 22, and the left and right side plates of the housing 20 are respectively provided with air inlets 21. The sterilization generator 10 is located between the two air inlets 21, and the air duct component 30 and the control module 40 are located above the sterilization generator 10. The air inlet side of the air duct component 30 is located adjacent to the air inlet 21, and the air outlet side of the air duct component 30 is located corresponding to the air outlet 22. The air duct component 30 may specifically include an air duct shell and a fan disposed within the air duct shell. The fan may include, but is not limited to, a cross-flow fan or a centrifugal fan. The operation of the fan in the air duct component 30 generates negative pressure to draw external airflow from the air inlet 21 into the shell 20. The airflow passes through the humidification membrane assembly 15 of the disinfection generator 10 and is then transported through the air duct shell to the air outlet 22 for discharge. Optionally, grilles or filters may be provided at the air inlet 21 and the air outlet 22 to filter the incoming and outgoing air. The disinfection generator 10 includes a water tank 11, a water trough 12, a valve assembly 13, an electrolysis module 14, and a humidification membrane assembly 15. The water tank 11 is provided with a liquid outlet 110; the water tank 12 is provided correspondingly to the liquid outlet 110; the valve assembly 13 is used to connect or disconnect the liquid outlet 110 from the water tank 12; the electrolysis module 14 is provided in the water tank 12 and is used to electrolyze the solution in the water tank 12; the humidifying membrane assembly 15 is provided in the water tank 12 and is used to adsorb the solution in the water tank 12.

[0069] When the aforementioned humidifier and sterilizer 100 is in operation, it generates disinfectant through electrolysis by the electrolysis module 14 of the sterilization generator 10, and the disinfectant is adsorbed by the humidification membrane assembly 15. The air duct component 30 operates, guiding airflow from the air inlet 21 to the air outlet 22. During airflow, the air passes through the humidification membrane assembly 15 of the sterilization generator 10, carrying the disinfectant towards the air outlet 22 and delivering it into the room, thus achieving humidification and sterilization. Furthermore, after the humidification and sterilization operation is completed, the control module 40 can control the humidification membrane assembly 15 and the air duct component 30 to continue operating for a period of time until the residual salt in the water tank 12 is transferred to the humidification membrane assembly 15. This keeps the water tank 12 clean, reducing the frequency of user cleaning and improving user satisfaction.

[0070] This invention also proposes a control method for a humidifier and sterilizer 100. Specifically, please refer to... Figures 1 to 8The humidifier and sterilizer 100 includes a housing 20, an air duct component 30, a sterilization generator 10, and a control module 40. The housing 20 has an air inlet 21 and an air outlet 22; the air duct component 30 is disposed within the housing 20 and guides airflow from the air inlet 21 to the air outlet 22; the sterilization generator 10 is disposed within the housing 20 and is located on the air inlet side of the air duct component 30; the control module 40 is electrically connected to the air duct component 30 and the sterilization generator 10. The sterilization generator 10 includes a water tank 11, a water trough 12, a valve assembly 13, an electrolysis module 14, and a humidification membrane assembly 15. The water tank 11 is equipped with a liquid outlet 110; a water trough 12 is correspondingly provided with the liquid outlet 110; a valve assembly 13 is used to connect or disconnect the liquid outlet 110 from the water trough 12; an electrolysis module 14 is provided in the water trough 12 and is used to electrolyze the solution in the water trough 12; a humidifying membrane assembly 15 is provided in the water trough 12 and is used to adsorb the solution in the water trough 12. The humidifying membrane assembly 15 includes a rotating wheel 151, an adsorption membrane 152, and a power component. The adsorption membrane 152 is provided on the rotating wheel 151, and the power component is driven to drive the rotating wheel 151 to rotate.

[0071] Please combine Figure 3 and Figure 9 Based on the humidifier and sterilizer 100 described above, in one embodiment, the control method of the humidifier and sterilizer 100 includes the following steps:

[0072] S1: Receives humidification and disinfection instructions;

[0073] S2: Control valve assembly 13 to open so as to inject the solution in water tank 11 into water tank 12;

[0074] S3: After the first preset time, control the valve assembly 13 to close and control the electrolysis module 14 to open, so as to electrolyze the solution in the water tank 12 into disinfectant.

[0075] S4: After the second preset time, control the electrolysis module 14 to stop working, and control the humidification membrane assembly 15 and the air duct component 30 to run and perform humidification and disinfection operations;

[0076] S5: After humidification and disinfection are completed, control the humidification membrane assembly 15 to continue running and control the air duct component 30 to switch to low-speed operation;

[0077] S6: The liquid level detection element detects the liquid level in the water tank 12 in real time and determines the liquid level status;

[0078] S7: When the water level in the water tank 12 is detected to be lower than the preset value, the humidification membrane assembly 15 and the air duct component 30 are controlled to continue running for a third preset time and then stop.

[0079] Specifically, in step S1 above, after receiving the humidification and disinfection command, the control module 40 controls the valve assembly 13 to open, allowing the solution (e.g., sodium chloride solution) in the water tank 11 to be injected into the water tank 12. Optionally, the valve assembly 13 includes a sealing element 131 and a drive unit. The sealing element 131 is movably disposed at the liquid outlet 110. When an opening command is received, the drive unit drives the sealing element 131 to move to a second position to open the liquid outlet 110, thus connecting the liquid outlet 110 of the water tank 11 with the water tank 12. After the first preset time, the solution in the water tank 12 reaches a certain amount. Then, the drive unit of the control valve assembly 13 drives the sealing member 131 to move to the first position to close the outlet 110. The outlet 110 of the water tank 11 is isolated from the water tank 12, and the water tank 11 stops injecting solution into the water tank 12. Then, the electrolysis module 14 is controlled to work, and the salt solution in the water tank 12 is electrolyzed into disinfectant (e.g., sodium hypochlorite solution) through the electrolysis module 14. After the second preset time, the electrolysis is completed, and the electrolysis is controlled. When module 14 stops working, it controls the rotating wheel 151 of the humidifying membrane assembly 15 to rotate. The adsorption membrane 152 on the rotating wheel 151 is fully soaked and adsorbs the disinfectant in the water tank 12. At the same time, it controls the fan of the air duct component 30 to run. The air duct component 30 guides the airflow from the air inlet 21 to the air outlet 22. During the airflow, it passes through the humidifying membrane assembly 15 and can carry the disinfectant on the humidifying membrane assembly 15 to the air outlet 22 and send it into the room, thereby achieving disinfection and sterilization of indoor air and object surfaces. After the humidification and disinfection operation is completed, the rotating wheel 151 of the humidification membrane assembly 15 continues to rotate, and the fan of the air duct component 30 is controlled to run at low speed. At this time, the adsorption membrane 152 on the rotating wheel 151 can continue to adsorb the disinfectant in the water tank 12. The liquid level in the water tank 12 is detected in real time by the liquid level detection element and the liquid level is judged. When the liquid level in the water tank 12 is detected to be zero (that is, when the water tank 12 is short of water), the liquid level detection element sends a water shortage signal to the control module 40. After receiving the water shortage signal, the control module 40 controls the humidification membrane assembly 15 and the air duct component 30 to continue running for a third preset time and then stop. In this way, it can be ensured that the humidification membrane assembly 15 completely absorbs the residual disinfectant in the water tank 12, and the low-speed operation of the air duct component 30 can evaporate the water in the disinfectant on the adsorption membrane 152, so that the salt of the disinfectant is collected on the adsorption membrane 152. The first preset time, the second preset time, and the third preset time can be set according to actual needs. For example, the first preset duration can be set to 10s to 20s.

[0080] The control method of the humidifier and sterilizer 100 described above can control the humidifier and sterilizer 100 to perform humidification and sterilization operations. After the humidification and sterilization operations are completed, the salt in the water tank 12 can be transferred and collected on the humidification membrane assembly 15. On the one hand, this can prevent the accumulation of salt in the water tank 12 from causing an increase in the concentration of disinfectant. On the other hand, it can also prevent the growth of bacteria in the water tank 12. This can keep the water tank 12 clean, reduce the frequency of user cleaning of the water tank 12, and improve user satisfaction.

[0081] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention's specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A humidifier and sterilizer, characterized in that, include: The casing is equipped with an air inlet and an air outlet; An air duct component, disposed within the housing, is used to guide airflow from the air inlet to the air outlet; A disinfection generator is housed within the casing and located on the air inlet side of the air duct component; as well as The control module is electrically connected to the air duct component and the disinfection generator; The disinfection generating device includes: The water tank is equipped with a liquid outlet; A water tank is provided corresponding to the liquid outlet; A valve assembly for connecting or disconnecting the liquid outlet from the water tank; An electrolysis module, located inside the water tank, is used to electrolyze the solution inside the water tank; A humidifying membrane assembly, disposed within the water tank, is used to adsorb the solution within the water tank; and A liquid level detection element, wherein the liquid level detection element is used to detect the liquid level in the water tank; The control module is used to control the humidification membrane assembly to continue operating after the humidification and disinfection operation is completed, and to control the air duct component to switch to low-speed operation; the control module is also used to control the humidification membrane assembly and the air duct component to continue operating for a third preset time and then stop when the water level in the water tank is lower than a preset value, so as to transfer and collect the salt in the water tank onto the humidification membrane assembly.

2. The humidifier and sterilizer as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The humidifying membrane assembly includes a rotating wheel, an adsorption membrane, and a power component. The adsorption membrane is disposed on the rotating wheel, and the power component is driven to rotate the rotating wheel.

3. The humidifier and sterilizer as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The valve assembly includes a plugging element and a drive unit. The plugging element is movably disposed at the liquid outlet and has a first position for blocking the liquid outlet and a second position for opening the liquid outlet. The drive unit is used to drive the plugging element to switch between the first position and the second position.

4. The humidifier and sterilizer as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The drive unit includes a pusher and a drive member. The pusher is movably mounted on the water tank. The sealing member is connected to the pusher. The drive member is used to drive the pusher to move, thereby switching the sealing member from the first position to the second position.

5. The humidifier and sterilizer as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The drive unit also includes an elastic element, which is disposed between the pusher and the water tank. The elastic element can drive the pusher to reset after the external force is removed, so that the sealing member returns to the first position.

6. The humidifier and sterilizer as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The liquid outlet is located at the bottom of the water tank. The bottom wall of the water tank has a through hole opposite to the liquid outlet. A tube is provided around the periphery of the through hole. The pushing member includes a push rod and a cover around the push rod. The cover covers the end of the tube. The upper end of the push rod extends toward the liquid outlet, and the lower end extends toward the through hole. The sealing member is connected to the upper end of the push rod. The driving member is installed at the bottom of the water tank. The driving member includes a power source and a driving rod connected to the power source. The driving rod can act on the push rod through the through hole.

7. The humidifier and sterilizer as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The water tank includes a tank body and an end cap. The bottom of the tank body is provided with a water outlet port. The end cap includes a cylindrical body and a partition disposed inside the cylindrical body. The cylindrical body is connected to the periphery of the water outlet port. The partition is disposed opposite to the water outlet port. The liquid outlet is opened on the partition. A receiving cavity for accommodating the pusher is formed inside the cylindrical body below the partition.

8. A control method for a humidifier / sterilizer, used in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Receive humidification and disinfection instructions; The control valve assembly opens to inject the solution from the water tank into the water bath; After the first preset time, the valve assembly is closed and the electrolysis module is turned on to electrolyze the solution in the water tank into disinfectant. After the second preset time period, the electrolysis module is controlled to stop working, and the humidification membrane assembly and air duct components are controlled to operate to perform humidification and disinfection operations. After humidification and disinfection are completed, the humidification membrane assembly is controlled to continue operating, and the air duct component is controlled to switch to low-speed operation. The liquid level detection element detects the liquid level in the water tank in real time; When the water level in the water tank is detected to be lower than a preset value, the humidification membrane assembly and the air duct component are controlled to continue operating for a third preset time before stopping.