Image sensory system

Abstract

The air supply device (3) of the present invention comprises: a first air conditioning unit (20); a second air conditioning unit (30); a merging portion (15) configured to merge a first airflow (X1) supplied from a first opening (24) and a second airflow (X2) supplied from a second opening (34); and a blower port configured to blow an airflow including at least one of the first airflow and the second airflow sent from the merging portion as a third airflow into a control space. The merging portion has a damper portion (16) configured to rotate under the wind pressure of the first airflow and the wind pressure of the second airflow.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air supply device. Background Art

[0002] There is known an air supply device (air conditioning device) (for example, refer to Patent Document 1), which is configured to blow out temperature-regulated air (cold air or warm air) in accordance with the image displayed on the image display device from an air outlet arranged near the image display device, so as to enhance the sense of presence of the image displayed on the image display device.

[0003] Conventional air supply devices use two air conditioning units to prepare air with different environments (e.g., temperature and humidity). By switching multiple dampers, one air conditioning unit blows the temperature-controlled air. Furthermore, while one air conditioning unit is supplying air, the other air conditioning unit prepares air for an environment corresponding to the image to be displayed next on the image display device. This configuration creates a sudden change in environment.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 4-212388 Summary of the Invention

[0007] However, conventional air supply devices switch the temperature-controlled air by electrically switching the fans in the two air conditioning units together with electrically switching the multiple dampers. This results in a mismatch between the synchronization of the fans and the dampers, or between the dampers themselves. This results in a mismatch (error) between the image displayed on the image display device and the timing at which the temperature-controlled air corresponding to the displayed image is blown to the user, reducing the sense of presence of the image.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide an air supply device that can improve the responsiveness of switching between airflows supplied from two air conditioning units. Another object of the present invention is to provide an air supply device that can reduce the possibility of impairing immersive experience by suppressing the error that occurs between the timing of displaying an image on an image display device and the timing of delivering conditioned air corresponding to the displayed image to a user.

[0009] The air supply device of the present invention includes a first air conditioning unit, a second air conditioning unit, a confluence portion, and a blow-out port. The first air conditioning unit supplies a first airflow from a first opening portion by the action of the first air supply portion. The second air conditioning unit supplies a second airflow from a second opening portion by the action of the second air supply portion. The confluence portion is configured to be able to merge the first airflow supplied from the first opening portion with the second airflow supplied from the second opening portion. The blow-out port blows out an airflow including at least one of the first airflow and the second airflow sent out from the confluence portion into a controlled space. In addition, the confluence portion has a windshield portion configured to be able to rotate under the action of the wind pressure of the first airflow and the wind pressure of the second airflow.

[0010] According to the present invention, an air supply device can be provided that improves the responsiveness of switching between airflows supplied from two air conditioning units. Furthermore, according to the present invention, an air supply device can be provided that suppresses the error that occurs between the timing of displaying an image on an image display device and the timing of blowing conditioned air corresponding to the displayed image toward a user, thereby reducing the possibility of impairing the sense of presence. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 This is a schematic configuration diagram of an image sensory system using the air supply device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the air blowing device in a state where the first air blowing unit is operating and the first airflow is flowing.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the air blowing device in a state where the second air blowing unit is operating and the second air flow is flowing.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the air blowing device in a state where the first air blowing unit and the second air blowing unit are operating and the first air flow and the second air flow are flowing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The air supply device of the present invention includes a first air conditioning unit, a second air conditioning unit, a confluence portion, and a blow-out port. The first air conditioning unit supplies a first airflow from a first opening portion by the action of the first air supply portion. The second air conditioning unit supplies a second airflow from a second opening portion by the action of the second air supply portion. The confluence portion is configured to be able to merge the first airflow supplied from the first opening portion with the second airflow supplied from the second opening portion. The blow-out port blows out an airflow including at least one of the first airflow and the second airflow sent out from the confluence portion into a controlled space. In addition, the confluence portion has a windshield portion configured to be able to rotate under the action of the wind pressure of the first airflow and the wind pressure of the second airflow.

[0016] With this configuration, the airflow path in the merging section is controlled by controlling the airflow force of the first and second airflow units. This allows switching between, for example, a state where the first opening is blocked (allowing the second airflow to flow) and a state where the second opening is blocked (allowing the first airflow to flow) without causing synchronization errors, as in conventional air supply devices caused by motorized opening and closing of dampers. This results in an air supply device that improves the responsiveness of switching the airflows supplied by the two air conditioning units.

[0017] The air supply device of the present invention may further include a flow divider configured to divide air drawn from the controlled space into the first air conditioning unit and the second air conditioning unit. Furthermore, the flow divider may include a first branch plate configured to rotate in response to the air supply force of the first air supply unit, and a second branch plate configured to rotate in response to the air supply force of the second air supply unit.

[0018] Thus, by controlling the airflow force of the first and second airflow units, the airflow path in the diverter is controlled. This allows switching between, for example, rotating the first branch plate to allow only the first airflow to flow, and rotating the second branch plate to allow only the second airflow to flow, without causing synchronization deviations, such as those caused by electrically operated dampers opening and closing, as in conventional air supply devices. This further improves the responsiveness of switching the airflows supplied by the two air conditioning units.

[0019] In the air blower of the present invention, the damper portion may be configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis. The rotation axis may be provided along a vertical direction.

[0020] Thus, when only the first airflow or only the second airflow is flowing, there is no need to continuously press the windshield using the wind pressure of the airflow. Therefore, the ventilation resistance caused by the windshield is reduced, and the third airflow can be efficiently supplied.

[0021] In the air supply device of the present invention, the first air conditioning unit may supply a first airflow having a first temperature. The second air conditioning unit may supply a second airflow having a second temperature different from the first temperature. The first temperature may be lower than the temperature of the air in the control space, or the second temperature may be higher than the temperature of the air in the control space.

[0022] Thus, when the air supply device is applied to the image sensor system, it can blow out cool air of the first temperature or warm air of the second temperature according to the image displayed on the display device, thereby enhancing the sense of presence (sensory perception) of the projected image.

[0023] In the air supply device of the present invention, the windshield part may adjust its rotation position within a range from a state in which the first opening is blocked to a state in which the second opening is blocked by changing the ratio between the air supply force of the first air supply part and the air supply force of the second air supply part.

[0024] With this configuration, the airflow path in the merging section is controlled by controlling the airflow force of the first and second airflow units. This allows switching between, for example, a state where the first opening is blocked (allowing the second airflow to flow) and a state where the second opening is blocked (allowing the first airflow to flow) without causing synchronization errors, as in conventional air supply devices caused by motorized opening and closing of dampers. This results in an air supply device that improves the responsiveness of switching the airflows supplied by the two air conditioning units.

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the embodiments described below all represent preferred specific examples of the present invention. Therefore, the shapes, constituent elements, configuration positions of constituent elements, etc. shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Therefore, constituent elements in the following embodiments that are not described in the independent technical solutions representing the highest concept of the present invention are described as arbitrary constituent elements. In addition, in each figure, substantially the same structure is marked with the same figure mark, and repeated descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0026] (Implementation Method 1)

[0027] (Image sensory system 1)

[0028] First, refer to Figure 1 An overview of the image sensory system 1 using the air blowing device 3 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 This is a schematic configuration diagram of the image sensory system 1 using the air blowing device 3 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] It should be noted that in the following description, the following descriptions may be used. Specifically, the direction in which the air supply device 3 installed in the image sensory system 1 faces the chair 51 may be referred to as the front-to-back direction, the side of the chair 51 on which the air supply device 3 is installed may be referred to as "front," and the side of the chair 51 on which the air supply device 3 is installed may be referred to as "rear." Furthermore, the left-right direction when viewing the display device 50 from the front may be referred to as "left" or "right," and the vertical direction (plumb direction) may be referred to as "up" or "down."

[0030] The image sensory system 1 is a system configured as a box-shaped room unit that allows users to feel airflow (cooling or heating) corresponding to the image (scenery or situation, etc.) projected on the display screen, thereby allowing users to obtain a sense of presence (physical perception) of the projected image.

[0031] Specifically, if Figure 1 As shown, the image sensory system 1 is configured to include a control space 2 for a user (not shown) to sit on a chair 51 and listen to or watch images, an air supply device 3 for blowing air toward the user, and a circulation duct 7 connecting the control space 2 and the air supply device 3.

[0032] Control space 2 is a space for users to listen to and watch videos. It consists of a room (audio-visual room) surrounded by walls in the front-to-back, left-to-right, and top-to-bottom directions. A chair 51, where users can sit, is located in the center rear of control space 2 in the front-to-back direction. A display device 50 is installed on the wall in front of chair 51.

[0033] A pair of airflow outlets 4 are provided at the left and right ends of the display device 50 to blow air (third airflow X3) toward a user seated on a chair 51. Furthermore, a circulation outlet 5 is provided at the top (above) of the control space 2 to exhaust air from the control space 2. Furthermore, a door (not shown) is provided on the wall behind the chair 51, serving as an entrance and exit to the control space 2.

[0034] It should be noted that an air conditioner (air conditioning device) that adjusts the air in the control space 2 to a predetermined temperature (e.g., 25° C.) may be installed in the control space 2. Furthermore, an air supply port and an air exhaust port of a heat exchange type ventilation device that performs heat exchange ventilation in addition to the circulation port 5 may be installed in the control space 2.

[0035] The display device 50 is a device having a large display screen such as a digital signage that is an information medium for displaying various images. The display device 50 is installed on a wall surface of the control space 2 in front of the chair 51 .

[0036] The chair 51 includes a seat for a user to sit on and a tiltable (reclining) backrest provided at the rear of the seat. Therefore, a user sitting on the chair 51 can listen to and watch images displayed on the display device 50 in a relaxed state.

[0037] The air supply device 3 is installed adjacent to the control space 2 on the front wall of the chair 51. The air supply device 3 delivers air from a pair of air outlets 4, located at the left and right ends of the display device 50, toward the user seated on the chair 51. The air supply device 3 includes an air intake 6 and a pair of air outlets 4. Air drawn in through the air intake 6 (air supplied from the control space 2) is blown out of the air outlets 4 as a third airflow X3. Details of the air supply device 3 will be described later.

[0038] The circulation duct 7 is a duct that connects the circulation port 5 provided at the top of the control space 2 with the suction port 6 of the air supply device 3. The circulation duct 7 extends along the top and back of the control space 2 and circulates the air exhausted from the circulation port 5 to the suction port 6 when the air supply device 3 is in operation.

[0039] The circulation port 5 is an opening for exhausting air from the control space 2. The circulation port 5 is provided at the top of the wall facing the wall on which the airflow outlet 4 is provided (the top (upper) of the wall behind the chair 51) so as to exhaust air from the rear side of the chair 51.

[0040] (Air supply device 3)

[0041] Next, refer to Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The air blowing device 3 used in the image sensory system 1 will be described. Figure 2 1 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the air blowing device 3 in a state where the first air blowing unit 22 is operating and the first air flow X1 is flowing. Figure 3 3 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the air supply device 3 when the second air supply unit 32 is in operation and the second air flow X2 is flowing. Figure 2 In the state in which the air supply device 3 is in the state of operating the first air supply unit 22 and stopping the operation of the second air supply unit 32. Figure 3 In the state in which the air supply device 3 is operating the second air supply unit 32 and stopping the operation of the first air supply unit 22, it should be noted that in Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 In the figure, the box body and the front wall of the air supply device 3 are omitted and shown.

[0042] The air supply device 3 uses two air conditioning units (a first air conditioning unit 20 and a second air conditioning unit 30) to prepare air with different environments (e.g., temperature and humidity). The device varies the ratio (air supply force ratio) between the air supply force (air volume) of the first air supply unit 22 of the first air conditioning unit 20 and the air supply force of the second air supply unit 32 of the second air conditioning unit 30. This adjusts the ratio of the combined flow of the first airflow X1 supplied from the first air conditioning unit 20 and the second airflow X2 supplied from the second air conditioning unit 30, and delivers the combined flow as the third airflow X3. Note that this combined flow ratio also includes situations where the ratio of the first airflow X1 or the second airflow X2 is "0."

[0043] Specifically, if Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the air supply device 3 includes a branching portion 11 , a first air conditioning unit 20 , a second air conditioning unit 30 , and a merging portion 15 .

[0044] First, the branching portion 11 will be described.

[0045] The flow divider 11 is located above the air supply device 3 and divides the air drawn in from the air inlet 6 into the first air conditioning unit 20 and the second air conditioning unit 30. The flow divider 11 includes the air inlet 6, a first branch plate 12, a second branch plate 13, a first stopper 12b, and a second stopper 13b.

[0046] The suction port 6 is an opening for sucking air exhausted from the circulation port 5 into the diverter 11 via the circulation duct 7. The suction port 6 is provided on the upper surface of the air supply device 3, that is, on the upper portion of the diverter 11.

[0047] The first branch plate 12 is a member that opens and closes the first inlet opening 23 of the first air conditioning unit 20 by rotating about the first rotating shaft 12a. More specifically, the first branch plate 12 is a flat member that is configured to hang down from the first rotating shaft 12a fixed to the upper surface of the diverter 11 under the action of its own weight. Figure 3 As shown in FIG, the air passage from the inlet 6 to the first air conditioning unit 20 is blocked by its own weight. On the other hand, the first branch plate 12 is in the operation of the first air supply unit 22 as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, the air flow from the first air blowing portion 22 rotates toward the first air conditioning unit 20 , thereby opening the air passage from the air inlet 6 to the first air conditioning unit 20 .

[0048] The second branch plate 13 is a member that opens and closes the second inlet opening 33 of the second air conditioning unit 30 by rotating about the second rotating shaft 13a. More specifically, the second branch plate 13 is a flat member that is configured to hang down from the second rotating shaft 13a fixed to the upper surface of the diverter 11 under the action of its own weight. Figure 2 As shown in FIG, the air passage from the inlet 6 to the second air conditioning unit 30 is blocked by its own weight. On the other hand, the second branch plate 13 is in the operation of the second air supply unit 32 as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the second air blower 32 rotates toward the second air conditioning unit 30 by the air blowing force of the second air blowing portion 32 , thereby opening the air passage from the air inlet 6 to the second air conditioning unit 30 .

[0049] The first rotating shaft 12 a rotatably supports the first branch plate 12 . The first rotating shaft 12 a is provided at a base end of the first branch plate 12 .

[0050] The first stopper 12b is a member that limits the movable area of the first branch plate 12. The first stopper 12b limits the front end of the first branch plate 12 from moving further toward the second air conditioning unit 30 from the state of being in contact with the first stopper 12b. Figure 3 As shown, the first branch plate 12 blocks the first inlet opening 23 of the first air conditioning unit 20 in a state where the front end portion of the first branch plate 12 is in contact with the first stopper 12 b .

[0051] The second rotation shaft 13 a rotatably supports the second branch plate 13 . The second rotation shaft 13 a is provided at a base end of the second branch plate 13 .

[0052] The second stopper 13b is a member that limits the movable area of the second branch plate 13. The second stopper 13b limits the front end of the second branch plate 13 from moving further toward the first air conditioning unit 20 from the state of being in contact with the second stopper 13b. Figure 2 As shown, the second branch plate 13 blocks the second inlet opening 33 of the second air conditioning unit 30 in a state where the front end portion of the second branch plate 13 is in contact with the second stopper 13 b .

[0053] Next, refer to Figure 2 The first atmosphere adjustment unit 20 will be described.

[0054] The first air conditioning unit 20 operates the first air supply unit 22, so that air (the first airflow X1) introduced from the first inlet opening 23 is conditioned to a first temperature by the first air conditioning unit 21 and then delivered from the first outlet opening 24 to the merging portion 15. Here, the first temperature is set, for example, to be lower than that of the air in the controlled space 2. Specifically, in the air supply device 3, the first air conditioning unit 20 delivers the first airflow X1 as cool air (cold air).

[0055] Specifically, if Figure 2 As shown, the first air conditioning unit 20 includes a first inlet opening 23, a first air conditioning unit 21, a first air supply unit 22, and a first outlet opening 24. It should be noted that the first outlet opening 24 corresponds to the "first opening" in the technical solution.

[0056] The first inlet opening 23 is connected to the diverter 11 on the first branch plate 12 side of the diverter 11. The first inlet opening 23 allows air to flow from the diverter 11 into the first air conditioning unit 20 when the first branch plate 12 rotates and the air passage is opened.

[0057] The first air conditioner 21 adjusts the temperature of the first airflow X1 introduced into the first air conditioning unit 20 (eg, 25° C.) to a first temperature of cold air (eg, 15° C.). The first air conditioner 21 may be, for example, a conventional refrigerator.

[0058] The first air supply unit 22 is a device that generates the first airflow X1 within the first air conditioning unit 20. The first air supply unit 22 can be, for example, a conventional air blower. Furthermore, under the influence of the wind pressure of the first airflow X1 delivered from the first outflow opening 24 (the air supply force of the first air supply unit 22), the first air supply unit 22 rotates the converging plate 16 in the converging section 15 toward the second outflow opening 34 of the second air conditioning unit 30, thereby opening the air path in the converging section 15. Furthermore, under the influence of the induction force generated by the release of the first airflow X1 supplied from the first outflow opening 24, the first air supply unit 22 rotates the first branch plate 12 in the diverting section 11 toward the first air conditioning unit 20, thereby opening the air path in the diverting section 11. As a result, in the air supply device 3, an air path from the diverting section 11 through the first air conditioning unit 20 to the converging section 15 is opened, generating the flow of the first airflow X1 within the air supply device 3.

[0059] Next, refer to Figure 3 The second atmosphere adjustment unit 30 will be described.

[0060] The second air conditioning unit 30 operates the second air supply unit 32, so that the air (second airflow X2) introduced from the second inlet opening 33 is temperature-controlled to a second temperature by the second air conditioning unit 31 and then delivered from the second outlet opening 34 to the merging portion 15. Here, the second temperature is set, for example, to be higher than that of the air in the controlled space 2. Specifically, in the air supply device 3, warm air (warm air) is delivered from the second air conditioning unit 30 as the second airflow X2.

[0061] Specifically, if Figure 3 As shown, the second air conditioning unit 30 includes a second inlet opening 33, a second air conditioning unit 31, a second air supply unit 32, and a second outlet opening 34. It should be noted that the second outlet opening 34 is equivalent to the "second opening" in the technical solution.

[0062] The second inlet opening 33 is connected to the diverter 11 on the second branch plate 13 side of the diverter 11. The second inlet opening 33 allows air to flow from the diverter 11 into the second air conditioning unit 30 when the second branch plate 13 rotates and the air passage is opened.

[0063] The second air conditioner 31 adjusts the temperature of the second air flow X2 introduced into the second air conditioning unit 30 (eg, 25° C.) to a second temperature (eg, 35° C.) serving as warm air. The second air conditioner 31 may be, for example, a normal heater.

[0064] The second air supply unit 32 is a device that generates the second airflow X2 in the second air conditioning unit 30. The second air supply unit 32 can be, for example, a conventional air blower. Furthermore, under the influence of the wind pressure of the second airflow X2 delivered from the second outflow opening 34 (the air supply force of the second air supply unit 32), the second air supply unit 32 rotates the converging plate 16 in the converging section 15 toward the first outflow opening 24 of the first air conditioning unit 20, thereby opening the air path in the converging section 15. Furthermore, under the influence of the induction force generated by the release of the second airflow X2 supplied from the second outflow opening 34, the second air supply unit 32 rotates the second branch plate 13 in the diverting section 11 toward the second air conditioning unit 30, thereby opening the air path in the diverting section 11. As a result, in the air supply device 3, an air path is opened from the diverting section 11 through the second air conditioning unit 30 to the converging section 15, generating the flow of the second airflow X2 within the air supply device 3.

[0065] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the first air supply unit 22 and the second air supply unit 32 use air supply fans with the same performance (air supply capacity). The first air supply unit 22 and the second air supply unit 32 can use a known centrifugal blower.

[0066] Next, the merging portion 15 will be described.

[0067] The merging portion 15 is a member that merges the first airflow X1 supplied from the first air conditioning unit 20 and the second airflow X2 supplied from the second air conditioning unit 30 to be delivered as a third airflow X3. The third airflow X3 delivered from the merging portion 15 flows through an air supply duct (not shown) connected to the merging portion 15 and is discharged from a pair of airflow outlets 4 (see FIG. Figure 1 It should be noted that the airflow outlet 4 is equivalent to the "blowing outlet" of the technical solution.

[0068] Specifically, if Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, a flat-plate merging plate 16 is provided in the center of the merging section 15. Furthermore, the housing forming the merging section 15 is provided with a first outflow opening 24 for the first air conditioning unit 20, a second outflow opening 34 for the second air conditioning unit 30, and an outlet opening (not shown) communicating with the air supply duct. It should be noted that the merging plate 16 corresponds to the "windshield" in the technical solution.

[0069] The merging plate 16 is rotated about the third rotation axis 16a by receiving at least one of the wind pressure from the first air flow X1 supplied from the first air conditioning unit 20 and the wind pressure from the second air flow X2 supplied from the second air conditioning unit 30. Figure 3 ) to the state where the second outflow opening 34 of the second air conditioning unit 30 is blocked (refer to Figure 2 It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the third rotation axis 16a is different from the first rotation axis 12a and the second rotation axis 13a, and is an axis along the vertical direction (up and down direction).

[0070] The third rotating shaft 16a rotatably supports the merging plate 16. The third rotating shaft 16a is disposed at the base end of the merging plate 16. The third rotating shaft 16a is disposed along the vertical direction (the vertical direction). The third rotating shaft 16a is disposed approximately midway between the first outflow opening 24 and the second outflow opening 34. In other words, the distance from the third rotating shaft 16a to the first outflow opening 24 and the distance from the third rotating shaft 16a to the second outflow opening 34 are approximately equal.

[0071] Furthermore, the merging plate 16 is in the operating state of the first air supply unit 22 (and the operating state of the second air supply unit 32 is stopped). Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the merging plate 16 is rotated toward the second air conditioning unit 30 under the action of the wind pressure of the first air flow X1 of the first air supply unit 22 (the air supply force of the first air supply unit 22), thereby blocking the second outflow opening 34. Furthermore, the merging plate 15 is in a state where the air path of the air flow supplied from the first air conditioning unit 20 is open. On the other hand, when the second air supply unit 32 is in operation (and the first air supply unit 22 is in a stopped state), the merging plate 16 is in a state where the second air supply unit 32 is in operation (and the first air supply unit 22 is in a stopped state). Figure 3 As shown, the airflow X2 from the second air supply unit 32 is rotated toward the first air conditioning unit 20 by the wind pressure (the airflow force of the second air supply unit 32), thereby blocking the first outflow opening 24. Furthermore, the confluence portion 15 is in a state where the airflow path supplied from the second air conditioning unit 30 is open.

[0072] (First airflow x1)

[0073] As described above, in the air supply device 3, when the first air supply unit 22 is in operation, the first outflow opening 24 opens due to the wind pressure of the first airflow X1 from the first air supply unit 22 (the airflow force of the first air supply unit 22). Furthermore, the first inflow opening 23 opens due to the inductive force generated by the release of the first airflow X1 supplied from the first outflow opening 24. In other words, in the air supply device 3, the air path from the diverter 11 to the confluence unit 15 via the first air conditioning unit 20 is open, generating the flow of the first airflow X1 within the air supply device 3.

[0074] Specifically, when the first air supply unit 22 begins operating, the air from the first air conditioning unit 20 is delivered to the confluence section 15 via the first outflow opening 24. As the air from the first air conditioning unit 20 is delivered to the confluence section 15, the first branch plate 12 rotates toward the first air conditioning unit 20 under the influence of the induced airflow, and the first inflow opening 23 opens. With the first inflow opening 23 open, the air drawn into the designated space 2 of the diversion section 11 from the intake port 6 is directed toward the first air conditioning unit 20. The air from the first air conditioning unit 20 directed into the confluence section 15 rotates the confluence plate 16 toward the second air conditioning unit 30 due to wind pressure, and the air is then delivered to the designated space 2 via the airflow outlet 4.

[0075] The above is the first airflow X1 generated by the first air supply unit 22 .

[0076] It should be noted that the amount of rotation of the first branch plate 12 depends on the operating output of the first air supply unit 22. Specifically, as the operating output of the first air supply unit 22 increases, the amount of rotation of the first branch plate 12 also increases. As the amount of rotation of the first branch plate 12 increases, the opening area of the first inlet opening 23 also increases.

[0077] (Second airflow x2)

[0078] On the other hand, in the air supply device 3, when the second air supply unit 32 is in operation, the second outflow opening 34 opens due to the wind pressure of the second airflow X2 from the second air supply unit 32 (the air supply force of the second air supply unit 32). Furthermore, the second inflow opening 33 opens due to the inductive force generated by the discharge of the second airflow X2 supplied from the second outflow opening 34. In other words, in the air supply device 3, the air path from the diverter 11 to the confluence 15 via the second air conditioning unit 30 is open, generating the flow of the second airflow X2 within the air supply device 3.

[0079] Specifically, when the second air supply unit 32 begins operating, air from the second air conditioning unit 30 is delivered to the confluence section 15 via the second outflow opening 34. As the air from the second air conditioning unit 30 is delivered to the confluence section 15, the second branch plate 13 rotates toward the second air conditioning unit 30 under the influence of the induced airflow, and the second inflow opening 33 opens. With the second inflow opening 33 open, air drawn into the designated space 2 of the diverter section 11 from the intake port 6 is directed toward the second air conditioning unit 30. The air from the second air conditioning unit 30 directed into the confluence section 15 rotates the confluence plate 16 toward the first air conditioning unit 20 due to wind pressure, and the air is then delivered to the designated space 2 via the airflow outlet 4.

[0080] The above is the second air flow X2 generated by the second air supply unit 32 .

[0081] It should be noted that the amount of rotation of the second branch plate 13 depends on the operating output of the second air supply unit 32. Specifically, as the operating output of the second air supply unit 32 increases, the amount of rotation of the second branch plate 12 also increases. As the amount of rotation of the second branch plate 13 increases, the opening area of the second inlet opening 33 also increases.

[0082] (Third airflow x3)

[0083] Then, the introduced airflows (the first airflow X1 or the second airflow X2 ) are merged in the merging portion 15 and are sent out as the third airflow X3 .

[0084] Next, refer to Figure 4 A state in which both the first air blowing unit 22 and the second air blowing unit 32 of the air blowing device 3 are operating will be described. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the air supply device 3 when the first air supply unit 22 and the second air supply unit 32 are in operation and the first air flow X1 and the second air flow X2 are flowing. The following description uses the case where the air supply force of the first air supply unit 22 and the air supply force of the second air supply unit 32 are the same as an example.

[0085] In the air supply device 3, as Figure 4 As shown, when both the first air supply unit 22 and the second air supply unit 32 are operating, a first airflow X1 is generated, flowing through the first air conditioning unit 20, and a second airflow X2 is generated, flowing through the second air conditioning unit 30. Furthermore, the first airflow X1 supplied from the first air conditioning unit 20 and the second airflow X2 supplied from the second air conditioning unit 30 simultaneously flow into the merging portion 15. At this time, the pressure of the first airflow X1 presses on one side (the left side) of the merging plate 16 in the merging portion 15. Furthermore, the pressure of the second airflow X2 presses on the opposite side (the right side) of the merging plate 16. When the blowing force (pressure) of the first air supply unit 22 and the blowing force (pressure) of the second air supply unit 32 are equal, the merging plate 16 reaches a balanced state (a stopped state) at the middle of its movable range. In other words, a third airflow X3, in which the first airflow X1 and the second airflow X2 merge in a 1:1 ratio, is delivered from the merging portion 15. At this time, the third airflow X3 becomes an airflow having a temperature intermediate between the cold air (first temperature) and the warm air (second temperature).

[0086] Furthermore, in the diverter section 11, the first branch plate 12 rotates under the influence of the inductive force generated by the discharge of the first airflow X1 toward the confluence section 15, opening the first inlet opening 23. As a result, the same amount of air as that discharged toward the confluence section 15 flows into the first air conditioning unit 20 as the first airflow X1. Furthermore, in the diverter section 11, the second branch plate 13 rotates under the influence of the inductive force generated by the discharge of the second airflow X2 toward the confluence section 15, opening the second inlet opening 33. As a result, the same amount of air as that discharged toward the confluence section 15 flows into the second air conditioning unit 30 as the second airflow X2. In this case, in the diverter section 11, too, when the inductive force generated by the discharge of the first airflow X1 and the inductive force generated by the discharge of the second airflow X2 are equal, the movable amounts (opening ratios) of the first and second branch plates 12 and 13 are the same. That is, in the flow splitting portion 11 , the air sucked in from the air inlet 6 is split into the first air flow X1 and the second air flow X2 at a ratio of 1:1.

[0087] As described above, when both the first air supply unit 22 and the second air supply unit 32 are operating, a first airflow X1, driven by the airflow force of the first air supply unit 22, flows from the diverter 11 via the first air conditioning unit 20 to the converging section 15, and a second airflow X2, driven by the airflow force of the second air supply unit 32, flows from the diverter 11 via the second air conditioning unit 30 to the converging section 15 in a 1:1 ratio. The first airflow X1 and the second airflow X2 then merge at the converging section 15 and are delivered as the third airflow X3.

[0088] Here, when the ratio between the blowing force of the first blower 22 (the wind pressure of the first airflow X1) and the blowing force of the second blower 32 (the wind pressure of the second airflow X2) is changed—for example, when the blowing force of the first blower 22 is made stronger than the blowing force of the second blower 32—the merging plate 16 stops at a position closer to the second air-conditioning unit 30 than the middle position of its movable range. That is, in the merging portion 15, the first airflow X1 merges with a greater proportion than the second airflow X2, and the third airflow X3 is delivered. Conversely, when the blowing force of the second blower 32 is made stronger than the blowing force of the first blower 22, the merging plate 16 stops at a position closer to the first air-conditioning unit 20 than the middle position of its movable range. That is, in the merging portion 15, the second airflow X2 merges with a greater proportion than the first airflow X1, and the third airflow X3 is delivered. In other words, the position of the merging plate 16 depends on the ratio of the pressure of the first airflow X1 to the pressure of the second airflow X2. Specifically, when the pressure of the first airflow X1 is greater than the pressure of the second airflow X2 (for example, pressure of the first airflow X1:pressure of the second airflow X2 = 2:1), the merging plate 16 rotates toward the second air conditioning unit 30, closer to the center between the first and second outlet openings 24 and 34. When the pressure of the second airflow X2 is greater than the pressure of the first airflow X1 (for example, pressure of the first airflow X1:pressure of the second airflow X2 = 1:2), the merging plate 16 rotates toward the first air conditioning unit 20, closer to the center between the first and second outlet openings 24 and 34. When the pressure of the first and second airflow X1 is approximately equal (pressure of the first and second airflow X2 = 1:1), the merging plate 16 is positioned approximately midway between the first and second outlet openings 24 and 34.

[0089] As described above, in the air supply device 3, by changing the ratio between the air supply force of the first air supply section 22 (the wind pressure of the first air flow X1) and the air supply force of the second air supply section 32 (the wind pressure of the second air flow X2), the confluence ratio of the first air flow X1 and the second air flow X2 to become the third air flow X3 in the confluence section 15 can be adjusted.

[0090] (Action of the Image Sensory System 1)

[0091] Next, refer to Figures 1 to 3 The operation of the image sensor system 1 will be described. In the first air conditioning unit 20, the first air conditioner 21 pre-conditions the air in the first air conditioning unit 20 to a first temperature, representing cooling. In the second air conditioning unit 30, the second air conditioner 31 pre-conditions the air in the second air conditioning unit 30 to a second temperature, representing heating.

[0092] In the video sensor system 1, when an image that creates a sense of coolness in the user is projected onto the display device 50 in the controlled space 2, the first air supply unit 22 of the first air conditioning unit 20 is operated while the second air supply unit 32 of the second air conditioning unit 30 is stopped. This allows cool air to be supplied to the controlled space 2 as the third airflow X3, connecting the user's vision with the sensation of the air and providing a sense of immersion. At this time, the second air supply unit 32 is stopped. Consequently, the converging plate 16 is pressed by the pressure of the first airflow X1 from the first air supply unit 22, closing the air path from the second air conditioning unit 30 to the converging plate 15. Consequently, the air generated by the first air conditioning unit 20 circulates throughout the video sensor system 1, efficiently and continuously supplying the desired air quality (cool air).

[0093] Meanwhile, in the image sensory system 1, when an image that creates a sense of warmth in the user is displayed on the display device 50 in the control space 2, the second air supply unit 32 of the second air conditioning unit 30 is operated while the first air supply unit 22 of the first air conditioning unit 20 is stopped. This causes warm air to be supplied to the control space 2 as the third airflow X3, connecting the user's vision with the sensation of the air and providing a sense of presence.

[0094] Furthermore, in the image sensory system 1, when the image projected on the display device 50 switches from one that induces a feeling of coolness in the user to one that induces a feeling of warmth in the user, the operating or inactive states of the first air supply unit 22 and the second air supply unit 32 are switched. This also simultaneously switches the air path. Thus, the third airflow X3 can be adjusted from a cooling state to a warming state. The reverse situation also applies.

[0095] (Features of Air Supply Device 3)

[0096] The rotation of the first branch plate 12, the second branch plate 13, and the converging plate 16 does not require electric control, but is instead controlled by the operating output of the first air supply unit 22 and the operating output of the second air supply unit 32. Therefore, compared to the case where the rotation of the first branch plate 12, the second branch plate 13, and the converging plate 16 is controlled electrically, the first airflow X1, the second airflow X2, and the third airflow X3 can be generated in a shorter time. This reduces the error between the timing of displaying an image on the display device 50 and the timing of delivering the regulated airflow corresponding to the displayed image toward the user, and can be expected to reduce the potential for loss of immersive experience.

[0097] Furthermore, the merging plate 16 is pivotally supported by a third rotational axis 16a extending vertically. This prevents the weight of the merging plate 16 from acting as resistance to its rotation. This facilitates rotation of the merging plate 16. This reduces the discrepancy between the timing of the image displayed on the display device 50 and the timing of the conditioned airflow corresponding to the displayed image being delivered toward the user, potentially reducing the likelihood of a loss of immersive experience.

[0098] As described above, according to the air blowing device 3 of the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0099] (1) The air supply device 3 includes a first air conditioning unit 20, a second air conditioning unit 30, a merging section 15, and an air flow outlet 4. The first air conditioning unit 20 supplies a first air flow X1 from a first outflow opening 24 by the operation of the first air supply section 22. The second air conditioning unit 30 supplies a second air flow X2 from a second outflow opening 34 by the operation of the second air supply section 32. The merging section 15 is configured to be able to merge the first air flow X1 supplied from the first outflow opening 24 with the second air flow X2 supplied from the second outflow opening 34. The air flow outlet 4 blows an air flow including at least one of the first air flow X1 and the second air flow X2 sent from the merging section 15 into the control space 2. The merging section 15 includes a merging plate 16 configured to be able to rotate under the action of the wind pressure of the first air flow X1 and the wind pressure of the second air flow X2.

[0100] With this configuration, the airflow path in the merging portion 15 is controlled by controlling the airflow force of the first air supply unit 22 and the airflow force of the second air supply unit 32. Consequently, it is possible to switch between, for example, a state where the first outflow opening 24 is blocked (a state where the second airflow X2 flows) and a state where the second outflow opening 34 is blocked (a state where the first airflow X1 flows) without causing synchronization deviations caused by, for example, electrically operated dampers opening and closing, as in conventional air supply devices. In other words, the air supply device 3 can achieve improved responsiveness in switching the airflows supplied from the two air conditioning units.

[0101] (2) The air supply device 3 is further configured to include a flow dividing portion 11 capable of dividing the air drawn from the control space 2 into the first air conditioning unit 20 and the second air conditioning unit 30. The flow dividing portion 11 includes a first branch plate 12 configured to rotate in response to the air supply force of the first air supply portion 22 and a second branch plate 13 configured to rotate in response to the air supply force of the second air supply portion 32.

[0102] Thus, by controlling the airflow force of the first air supply unit 22 and the airflow force of the second air supply unit 32, the airflow path in the diverter 11 is controlled. Consequently, it is possible to switch between, for example, rotating the first branch plate 12 to allow only the first airflow X1 to flow, and rotating the second branch plate 13 to allow only the second airflow X2 to flow, without causing synchronization deviations caused by, for example, electrically operated dampers opening and closing, as in conventional air supply devices. In other words, in the air supply device 3, the responsiveness of switching the airflows supplied from the two air conditioning units can be further improved.

[0103] (3) In the air blowing device 3, the merging plate 16 is configured to be rotatable about the third rotation shaft 16a. The third rotation shaft 16a is provided along the vertical direction.

[0104] Therefore, when only the first airflow X1 or the second airflow X2 is flowing, the merging plate 16 does not need to be continuously pressed by the airflow pressure. Therefore, the ventilation resistance caused by the merging plate 16 is reduced, and the third airflow X3 can be efficiently supplied.

[0105] (4) In the air supply device 3, the first air conditioning unit 20 supplies a first air flow X1 having a first temperature. The second air conditioning unit 30 supplies a second air flow X2 having a second temperature different from the first temperature. The first temperature is lower than the temperature of the air in the control space 2, and the second temperature is higher than the temperature of the air in the control space 2.

[0106] Thus, when the air blowing device 3 is applied to the image sensor system 1, cool air of the first temperature or warm air of the second temperature can be blown according to the image displayed on the display device 50. Therefore, the sense of presence (sensory quality) of the projected image can be improved.

[0107] (5) In the air blowing device 3 , the ratio between the blowing force of the first air blowing section 22 and the blowing force of the second air blowing section 32 is changed to adjust the merging ratio of the first air flow X1 and the second air flow X2 blown out as the third air flow X3 in the merging section 15 .

[0108] Thus, the temperature of the third airflow X3 blown out from the air blower 3 can be arbitrarily adjusted within the range from the first temperature to the second temperature and blown out.

[0109] (6) In the air blowing device 3 , the first branch plate 12 , the second branch plate 13 , and the merging plate 16 are rotated by using at least one of the blowing force of the first air blowing portion 22 and the blowing force of the second air blowing portion 32 .

[0110] This can simplify the plate structure compared to a case where the rotation operation of each plate is performed electrically.

[0111] (7) By changing the ratio between the blowing force of the first blower 22 and the blowing force of the second blower 32 , the merging plate 16 is adjusted in rotational position within a range from a state where the first outflow opening 24 is blocked to a state where the second outflow opening 34 is blocked.

[0112] With this configuration, the airflow path in the merging portion 15 is controlled by controlling the airflow force of the first air supply unit 22 and the airflow force of the second air supply unit 32. Consequently, it is possible to switch between, for example, a state where the first outflow opening 24 is blocked (a state where the second airflow X2 flows) and a state where the second outflow opening 34 is blocked (a state where the first airflow X1 flows) without causing synchronization deviations, such as those caused by electrically operated dampers opening and closing, as in conventional air supply devices. In other words, the air supply device 3 can achieve improved responsiveness in switching the airflows supplied from the two air conditioning units.

[0113] As mentioned above, the present invention has been described based on the embodiment. However, it is easy to assume that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment at all, and various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0114] [Variation]

[0115] The following describes a modified example. In the drawings and descriptions of the modified example, the same or equivalent components and members as those in the embodiment are marked with the same reference numerals. Explanations that overlap with the embodiment are omitted as appropriate, and the focus is on the structures that differ from the embodiment.

[0116] The image sensory system 1 may also include an air supply port for supplying air to a space different from the specified space 2, an exhaust port for exhausting the air in the specified space 2 to a space different from the specified space 2, and a ventilation device capable of performing heat exchange between the air passing through the air supply port and the air passing through the exhaust port.

[0117] In the air supply device 3 of this embodiment, the first temperature in the first air conditioning unit 21 is set to be lower than the temperature of the air in the control space 2, and the second temperature in the second air conditioning unit 31 is set to be higher than the temperature of the air in the control space 2. However, this is not limiting. For example, the temperatures set in both the first air conditioning unit 21 and the second air conditioning unit 31 may be lower than the temperature of the air in the control space 2, or higher than the temperature of the air in the control space 2. This achieves the aforementioned effects.

[0118] In the air supply device 3 of this embodiment, the first air conditioning unit 21 and the second air conditioning unit 31 only adjust the temperature of the air within each cell, but this is not limiting. For example, the temperature and humidity of the air within each cell may also be adjusted. This allows the air supply device 3 to blow out a third airflow X3 adjusted to low temperature and low humidity (low temperature and dryness), low temperature and high humidity, high temperature and low humidity (high temperature and dryness), or high temperature and high humidity. This can further enhance the immersiveness (physical quality) of the images displayed on the display device 50.

[0119] Furthermore, in addition to the air conditioning units (first air conditioning unit 21 and second air conditioning unit 31), the air supply device 3 of this embodiment may also include a fragrance unit that adds a fragrance component (e.g., aromatic compounds) to the air flowing through the air conditioning units (first air conditioning unit 20 and second air conditioning unit 30), or an air purification unit that adds an air purification component (e.g., hypochlorous acid) to the air flowing through the air conditioning units. This allows the air supply device 3 to further fine-tune the air quality of the third airflow X3. Consequently, the immersiveness (physical quality) of the images displayed on the display device 50 can be further enhanced.

[0120] Industrial applicability

[0121] The air supply device of the present invention is useful as an air supply device that sends air forward from an image display surface, and can be used, for example, in an audio-visual image system using such an air supply device. In addition, the air supply device of the present invention is also useful in an image sensory system that sends air from an image display device toward a user.

[0122] Description of Reference Numerals

[0123] 1 Image and body sensing system

[0124] 2 Control Space

[0125] 3 Air supply device

[0126] 4 air outlets

[0127] 5 circulation port

[0128] 6 suction port

[0129] 7 Circulation Pipeline

[0130] 11 Diversion Department

[0131] 12 First branch board

[0132] 12a First rotation axis

[0133] 12b First stopper

[0134] 13 Second branch board

[0135] 13a Second rotation axis

[0136] 13b Second stopper

[0137] 15 Confluence Department

[0138] 16 Manifold

[0139] 16a Third rotation axis

[0140] 20 First gas conditioning unit

[0141] 21 First Air Conditioning Department

[0142] 22 First air supply unit

[0143] 23 First inflow opening

[0144] 24 First outflow opening

[0145] 30 Second gas conditioning unit

[0146] 31 Second Air Conditioning Department

[0147] 32 Second air supply unit

[0148] 33 Second inflow opening

[0149] 34 Second outflow opening

[0150] 50 display device

[0151] 51 chairs

[0152] X1 First Airflow

[0153] X2 Second Airflow

[0154] X3 Third Airflow.

Claims

1. An image sensor system comprising a flow dividing section, a first air conditioning unit, a second air conditioning unit, a merging section, and an air flow outlet, wherein: The diversion portion includes a suction port, a first branch plate, a first rotating shaft, a first stopper, a second branch plate, a second rotating shaft, and a second stopper. The first branch plate is configured to rotate about the first rotation axis and hang down from the first rotation axis under the action of its own weight. The first stopper restricts the first branch plate from moving further toward the second air conditioning unit from the state of contact with the first stopper. The second branch plate is configured to rotate about the second rotation axis and hang down from the second rotation axis under the action of its own weight. The second stopper restricts the second branch plate from moving further toward the first air conditioning unit from the state of contact with the second stopper. The first air conditioning unit has a first inlet opening, a first air supply portion, and a first outlet opening. The first inlet opening is connected to the diverter portion on the first branch plate side and is an opening for allowing air to flow in from the suction port when the first branch plate rotates in accordance with the air supply force of the first air supply portion and the air path is opened. The first air supply unit supplies the air flowing in from the first inlet opening as a first airflow from the first outlet opening to the merging portion. The second air conditioning unit has a second inlet opening, a second air supply portion, and a second outlet opening. The second inlet opening is connected to the diverter portion on the second branch plate side and is an opening for allowing air to flow in from the suction port when the second branch plate rotates in accordance with the air supply force of the second air supply portion and the air path is opened. The second air supply unit supplies the air flowing in from the second inlet opening as a second airflow from the second outlet opening to the merging portion. The merging portion is configured to merge the first airflow and the second airflow, and to send an airflow including the first airflow and / or the second airflow as a third airflow toward the airflow outlet. The confluence portion has a windshield portion and a third rotation axis, The windshield portion is configured to be rotatable around the third rotation axis under the wind pressure of the first airflow and the wind pressure of the second airflow. The third rotation axis is arranged along the vertical direction, The confluence ratio of the first airflow and the second airflow is adjusted according to the image displayed on the display device. The airflow outlet blows the third airflow adjusted at the merging ratio toward a control space near the display device.

2. The image-body sensing system according to claim 1, wherein: The first gas conditioning unit supplies the first gas flow having a first temperature, The second gas conditioning unit supplies the second gas flow having a second temperature different from the first temperature, The first temperature is lower than the temperature of the air in the control space, The second temperature is higher than the temperature of the air in the control space.

3. The image-body sensing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: By changing the ratio between the blowing force of the first blower and the blowing force of the second blower, the damper adjusts its rotational position within a range from a state where the first outflow opening is blocked to a state where the second outflow opening is blocked.

Images