Air purifier

Abstract

An air cleaner includes a blower, a circulator disposed downstream of the blower to adjust a wind direction of air discharged from the blower, and a moving device combined with the circulator and supported by the blower to be movable relative to the blower to change a disposition of the circulator, the circulator including a lower cover including a lower plate combined with the moving device and an outer plate spaced apart from a peripheral edge of the lower plate to form a suction port between the lower plate, an inner cover including a housing spaced apart from the lower plate toward an inner side of the circulator and an inner plate spaced apart from a peripheral edge of the housing and facing the outer plate, a motor supported by an inner side of the lower plate, a blower fan including a hub connected to the motor, a plurality of moving blades inclinedly extended from the hub toward the suction port, and a shroud extending in a circumferential direction to connect ends of the plurality of moving blades and facing the inner plate, an upper cover covering the plurality of moving blades to form a discharge port, and an outer side cover disposed at an outer peripheral edge of the upper cover.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of July 9, 2021, the application number of 202110776862.3, and the name of "Air cleaner". TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application relates to an air cleaner, and more particularly to an air cleaner configured with a circulator that adjusts the flow direction of the air to be cleaned on the upper side. BACKGROUND

[0003] The air cleaner is a device that filters the air inside a predetermined space and discharges it, thereby reducing dust or bacteria, etc. in the air of the corresponding space. The air cleaner filters out impurities by the flow of air in the corresponding space and discharges the air in which the impurities are removed.

[0004] In order to inhale air in a wide range of the corresponding space and discharge filtered air, a structure in which a suction port is formed on the peripheral surface of a cylindrical housing and filtered air is discharged upward can be disclosed. However, in order to discharge filtered air to a distant area of the corresponding space, a device for additionally converting the flow of filtered air upward to the discharge side is provided, thereby being able to discharge filtered air to a wide area of the indoor space.

[0005] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0000121 discloses an air supply device that makes air flow upward from the peripheral surface of the lower side and a flow conversion device that is disposed on the upper side of the air supply device and converts the flow of air discharged upward.

[0006] The flow conversion device described above is a structure connected to the air supply device, and since it has a structure in which the center portion is closed, it uses a radial fan in which the suction port is annular. The flow conversion device using the radial fan can perform a function of discharging air of a desired air volume by adjusting the number of revolutions and circulating the air of a specific space. However, in the case where the discharge flow path area is reduced, the air volume can be reduced, and in the case where no additional impeller is provided but a grill is provided, there is a problem that energy loss of flow can occur. SUMMARY

[0007] The present application aims to provide an air cleaner that radially delivers filtered clean air to a distant place.

[0008] By installing a circular inlet of a diagonal flow fan in the circulation device, air can be delivered to a far distance. However, the circulation device of the present invention is combined with a moving device in order to change the arrangement thereof, and thus a part of the inlet can be closed. Another object of the present invention is to provide an air cleaner that minimizes the loss of the flow amount of air in a structure in which a part of the inlet of the circulation device is closed. That is, an air cleaner that maximizes the flow amount of air flowing into the inlet of the blowing fan is provided.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide an air cleaner that minimizes the situation in which air flowing into the circulation device generates a vortex during the flow into the inlet of the blowing fan. In the case of the circulation device in which the diagonal flow fan is installed, the problem in which air flows backward between the inner panel in which the blowing fan is accommodated and the shroud of the blowing fan can occur. Another object of the present invention is to provide an air cleaner that minimizes the situation in which air flowing by the blowing fan flows backward to the space between the inner panel and the shroud.

[0010] The objects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and other objects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0011] The air cleaner of the present invention includes a blowing device, a circulation device disposed downstream of the blowing device to adjust the wind direction of air discharged from the blowing device, and a moving device combined with the circulation device and supported by the blowing device to be movable with respect to the blowing device to change the arrangement of the circulation device. The circulation device includes a lower cover including a lower panel combined with the moving device and an outer panel spaced apart from the circumference of the lower panel to form an inlet between the lower panel, an inner cover including a housing spaced apart from the lower panel toward the inner side of the circulation device and an inner panel spaced apart from the circumference of the housing and facing the outer panel, a motor supported by the inner side of the lower panel, a blowing fan including a hub connected to the motor, a plurality of dynamic blades inclinedly extended from the hub toward the inlet, and a shroud extending in the circumferential direction to connect the ends of the plurality of dynamic blades and facing the inner panel, an upper cover covering the plurality of dynamic blades to form a discharge outlet, and an outer side cover disposed at the outer circumference of the upper cover.

[0012] The blowing fan includes a cylindrical suction guide protruding downward from the inner circumferential end of the shroud to be located radially inside the bell mouth, and the diameter of the protruding inner circumferential end is greater than or equal to the diameter of the suction guide.

[0013] One of the inner panel and the shroud is provided with a rib protruding toward the other.

[0014] The shroud includes a first rib extending in a circumferential direction and protruding toward the inner plate, and the inner plate includes a second rib extending in a circumferential direction and protruding toward the shroud at a position spaced apart from the bell mouth in a radial direction.

[0015] Ends of the first rib and the second rib overlap each other in a radial direction.

[0016] A gap between an inner peripheral end of the shroud and an inner peripheral end of the outer hub is smaller than a gap between an outer peripheral end of the shroud and an outer peripheral end of the outer hub.

[0017] A length of the shroud extending from the inner peripheral end to the outer peripheral end is shorter than a length of the outer hub extending from the inner peripheral end to the outer peripheral end.

[0018] The shroud is inclined to gradually face the discharge port in a radial direction, and the inner plate and the outer plate extend in a circumferential direction and are inclined in parallel with the shroud.

[0019] The upper cover includes a discharge guide having a cylindrical shape to form an appearance, a connection ring having a ring shape and disposed apart from the discharge guide in a radial direction, and a plurality of stationary vanes disposed between the discharge guide and the connection ring to form the discharge port and guide air flowing by the blowing fan toward the discharge guide.

[0020] The outer cover is disposed at an outer periphery of the discharge guide and has a cylindrical shape.

[0021] A support disposed between the upper cover and the blowing fan includes an upper plate spaced apart from the hub, an outer frame having a ring shape supported by the inner plate, and a connection frame extending in the moving vane to connect the upper plate and the outer frame.

[0022] To achieve the object, an air cleaner according to an embodiment of the present application includes a blowing device forming a discharge port at an upper side, a circulator disposed at an upper side of the blowing device to adjust a wind direction of air flowing upward through the discharge port, and a moving device combined with the circulator to change an arrangement of the circulator, whereby the moving device can be combined with a lower end portion of the circulator.

[0023] The circulator includes a lower cover, an upper cover, a blowing fan, a motor, and an inner cover. A portion of the lower cover forming an intake port is closed by being combined with a mobile device. The blowing fan disposed on the upper side of the lower cover forms a circular intake port on the lower side and is disposed around the intake port with an intake guide. The motor is disposed on the upper side of the lower cover and is disposed in the intake port of the blowing fan to rotate the blowing fan. The inner cover includes an inner plate forming an intake port on the inner side and a bell mouth protruding upward from the inner circumferential end of the inner plate and disposed outward from the circumferential surface of the intake guide to guide air flowing into the intake port of the lower cover to the intake port of the blowing fan, thereby guiding air flowing into the blowing fan in a larger area than the intake port of the blowing fan. In a structure in which the intake port of the blowing fan is not blocked by the lower structure of the lower cover or the motor, the bell mouth is disposed outward from the intake port of the blowing fan, thereby being able to guide suction without blocking the intake port of the blowing fan.

[0024] The blowing fan includes a hub combined with the motor, a shroud disposed apart from the hub with an intake port for air suction formed in the center, and a plurality of blades disposed between the hub and the shroud, the intake guide protruding downward from the inner circumferential end of the shroud, thereby being able to guide air flowing into the space between the shroud and the hub.

[0025] The present invention includes an inner plate disposed on the lower side of the shroud with an intake port formed on the inner side, the bell mouth formed protruding upward from the inner circumferential end of the inner plate, thereby the bell mouth guiding air flowing into the blowing fan and being able to block air flowing backward between the shroud and the inner plate.

[0026] The bell mouth includes an upper bell mouth protruding upward from the inner circumferential end of the inner plate and a lower bell mouth protruding downward from the inner circumferential end of the inner plate, thereby being able to secure a predetermined portion of the area in which the bell mouth is formed to guide air flowing into the intake port of the lower cover to the blowing fan.

[0027] The upper end of the bell mouth is higher than the lower end of the intake guide, thereby being able to block air flowing backward between the shroud and the inner plate.

[0028] The length of the bell mouth extending upward is greater than the separation interval of the bell mouth and the intake guide, thereby being able to secure the function of the bell mouth guiding air flow to the intake port of the blowing fan.

[0029] The inner cover further includes a housing forming a space in which the motor is disposed, the inner cover forming a ring-shaped intake port between the housing and the inner plate.

[0030] The inner cover includes a plurality of grids which are arranged perpendicularly to the annular suction port formed between the housing and the inner plate and connect the housing and the inner plate, thereby stably connecting the inner plate and the housing even if vibration is generated in the housing.

[0031] The interval between the housing and the bell mouth is greater than the interval between the inner circumferential end of the shroud and the inner circumferential end of the outer hub, thereby ensuring the flow of air flowing into the housing of the blower fan.

[0032] The present application also includes a protrusion which protrudes radially inward from the lower end of the bell mouth, thereby guiding air flowing into the suction port of the lower cover to the suction port of the blower fan.

[0033] The protrusion increases in length which protrudes radially inward as it goes upward from the lower end, thereby guiding air flowing into the suction port of the lower cover to the suction port of the blower fan.

[0034] The inner circumferential end of the protrusion has a diameter greater than or equal to that of the suction guide, thereby not blocking the suction port formed on the blower fan.

[0035] A rib which protrudes toward the direction in which the inner plate and the shroud face each other is provided in at least one of the inner plate and the shroud, thereby blocking air flowing backward between the shroud and the inner plate.

[0036] The shroud includes a first rib which protrudes toward the inner plate at a position spaced radially outward from the suction guide, and the inner plate includes a second rib which protrudes toward the shroud at a position spaced radially outward from the bell mouth, thereby blocking air flowing backward between the shroud and the inner plate.

[0037] The lower end of the first rib is lower than the upper end of the second rib, thereby blocking air flowing backward between the shroud and the inner plate.

[0038] The inner cover includes a housing which is arranged around the motor arranged on the upper side of the lower plate, and the housing extends upward in parallel with the bell mouth, thereby guiding air flowing into the suction port of the lower cover to the upper side.

[0039] The air cleaner of the present application includes: a supply device forming a discharge port at an upper side; and a circulator disposed at an upper side of the supply device, adjusting a wind direction of air flowing upward through the discharge port, the circulator including: a supply fan forming a circular suction port at a lower side and an annular discharge port at an upper side; an upper cover disposed at an upper side of the supply fan, guiding air flowing by the supply fan to a direction toward a rotation shaft of the supply fan; a motor disposed at the suction port of the supply fan, rotating the supply fan; and an inner cover disposed at a circumference of the motor, guiding air flowing into the suction port formed at the lower cover to the supply fan, the inner cover including: a housing forming a space in which the motor is disposed; an inner plate disposed apart from the housing in a radial direction and forming the suction port with the housing; and a bell mouth protruding upward from an inner circumferential end of the inner plate, a diameter of the bell mouth being greater than a diameter of the suction port formed at the supply fan, whereby even if a portion of the suction port of the supply fan is blocked by the motor for rotating the supply fan, the flow of air into the supply fan can be ensured by the bell mouth structure.

[0040] The specific contents of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and the drawings.

[0041] The air cleaner according to the present application has one or more of the following effects.

[0042] First, in the air cleaner of the present application, the supply fan disposed at the circulator uses an axial fan forming a circular suction port at a lower side and an annular discharge port at an upper side, whereby the filtered and cleaned air can be transmitted further in a radial direction, thereby providing a user with a comfortable feeling in a wider space range.

[0043] Second, in the structure of the circulator of the present application, even if a portion of the part in which the suction port is formed is closed, the flow of air into the suction port of the supply fan can be ensured by disposing the bell mouth guiding the flow of air into the suction port of the supply fan outside the suction port of the supply fan. This can increase the amount of air to be cleaned.

[0044] Third, with the structure of the bell mouth and the suction guide, air flowing reversely into the space formed between the shroud of the supply fan and the inner plate of the inner cover is blocked, whereby the amount of air flowing by the supply fan can be increased. Also, by providing an additional rib to the shroud and the inner plate, the reverse flow of air can be minimized.

[0045] Fourth, the air flowing through the lower cover is minimized in vortex flow into the supply fan by the bell mouth and the housing disposed in parallel with the bell mouth, whereby the flow of air flowing into the supply fan can be ensured.

[0046] The effects of the present application are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned above will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0047] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an air cleaner according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0048] Figure 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the air cleaner of Figure 1

[0049] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the second air supply device and the circulator portion of Figure 2

[0050] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a circulator according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0051] Figure 5 is a bottom view of Figure 4

[0052] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 4

[0053] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of Figure 6

[0054] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X-X' of Figure 5

[0055] Figure 9 is a perspective view of an inner cover according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0056] Figure 10a is an enlarged view of A of Figure 8

[0057] Figure 10b is a comparative example of Figure 10a

[0058] Figure 11a is a view for explaining the structure of a horn according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0059] Figure 11b is a view for explaining the structure of a shroud and an inner plate according to still another embodiment of the present application.

[0060] EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0061] ​​​​​​​​10: air cleaner; 100: first purifying device; 110: first housing; 112: first suction inlet; 120: first filter; 122: first filter frame; 130: first fan case; 132: first fan; 140: first air supply guide; 150: first discharge cover; 160: partition; 180: base; 200: second purifying device; 210: second housing; 212: second suction inlet; 220: second filter; 222: second filter frame; 230: second fan case; 232: second fan; 234: second fan motor; 240: second air supply guide; 250: second discharge cover; 252: second discharge outlet; 260: moving guide; 270: moving device; 300: circulator; 310: lower cover; 312: outer plate; 314: lower plate; 316: second connecting plate; 318: rib; 320: upper cover; 322: discharge guide; 324: connecting ring; 326: impeller; 330: air supply fan; 332: hub; 332a: inner hub; 332b: outer hub; 334: shroud; 336: suction guide; 338: blade; 340: motor; 342: motor shaft; 350: inner cover; 352: housing; 354: upper housing; 356: lower housing; 358: inner plate; 360: bell mouth; 362: first connecting plate; 364: grill; 370: support; 372: outer frame; 374: upper plate; 376: connecting frame; 380: peripheral cover; 390: display; 400: filter DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] Reference will now be made in detail embodiments of the present application, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 The advantages, features and methods of accomplishing the present application will be clearly understood from the following embodiments described in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present application is not limited to the following disclosed embodiments, but can be implemented in various forms different from each other, and the embodiments are provided only to more completely disclose the present application and to fully convey the scope of the present application to those skilled in the art to which the present application pertains. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same structural elements.

[0063] Hereinafter, an air cleaner according to an embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0064] Reference Figure 1 The air cleaner 10 according to an embodiment of the present application includes air supply devices 100, 200 for generating air flows, and a circulator 300 for converting a discharge direction of the air flows generated from the air supply devices 100, 200. The air supply devices 100, 200 include a first air supply device 100 for generating a first air flow, and a second air supply device 200 for generating a second air flow.

[0065] Referring to Figures 1-2 , the first air supply device 100 and the second air supply device 200 can be disposed in the up-and-down direction. The second air supply device 200 can be disposed at the upper side of the first air supply device 100.

[0066] The air cleaner 10 includes a housing 110, 210 forming an appearance. The housing 110, 210 includes a first housing 110 forming an appearance of the first air supply device 100, and a second housing 210 forming an appearance of the second air supply device 200.

[0067] The first housing 110 can have a cylindrical shape. The upper portion of the first housing 110 can be configured to have a smaller diameter than the lower portion.

[0068] The first suction port 112, which sucks air, is formed in the first housing 110. The first suction port 112 communicates the inside and the outside of the first housing 110. The first suction port 112 is formed in plural. The first housing 110 is formed with the plural first suction ports 112 in the circumferential surface, and can be formed with the first discharge port 152 opening upward.

[0069] The plural first suction ports 112 are formed elongatedly in the up-and-down direction. In order to be able to suck air in any direction with the first housing 110 as a reference, the plural first suction ports 112 are formed uniformly in the circumferential direction along the outer circumferential surface of the first housing 110.

[0070] As described above, by configuring the first housing 110 to have a cylindrical shape, and forming the plural first suction ports 112 along the outer circumferential surface of the first housing 110, it is possible to increase the amount of air suction.

[0071] The first discharge cover 150, which forms the first discharge port 152 opening upward, is disposed in the upper portion of the first air supply device 100. The first discharge port 152 can be formed in a ring shape.

[0072] The first filter 120 can be installed in the installation space in a detachable manner. The first filter 120 has a cylindrical shape, and air can flow in through the outer circumferential surface of the first filter 120. In the process of passing through the first filter 120, impurities such as dust in the air can be filtered out.

[0073] By configuring the first filter 120 to have a cylindrical shape, air suction can be achieved in any direction with the first filter 120 as a reference. Thus, it is possible to increase the air filtration area.

[0074] The installation space can be cylindrically configured corresponding to the shape of the first filter 120. The first filter 120 can be slidably entered into the installation space during installation. Conversely, the first filter 120 can be slidably pulled out of the installation space during separation.

[0075] The first air supply device 100 includes a first fan housing 130 configured at the upper side of the first filter 120, a first fan 132 rotatably configured at the inner side of the first fan housing 130, and a first fan motor 134 for rotating the first fan 132.

[0076] The first fan housing 130 forms a circular first housing suction hole 130a at the lower side and an annular first housing discharge hole 130b at the upper side. The first fan 132 causes air to flow in along the axial direction and to be discharged to the radial upper side.

[0077] The first fan 132 includes a first hub 132a combined with the rotating shaft of the first fan motor 134 which is a centrifugal fan motor, a first shroud 132b configured apart from the first hub 132a, and a plurality of first blades 132c configured between the first hub 132a and the first shroud 132b. The first fan motor 134 can be combined at the upper side of the first fan 132.

[0078] The first air supply device 100 further includes a first air supply guide 140 combined at the upper side of the first fan 132 and guiding air passing through the first fan 132 to the upper side.

[0079] The first air supply guide 140 forms an annular first air supply flow path 140a for the air discharged from the first fan 132 to flow.

[0080] The first air supply guide 140 includes a first air supply body 142 in a cylindrical shape and forming an outer appearance, a first inner cover 144 in a bowl shape and configured at the central portion of the first air supply body 142, the first fan motor 134 being inserted in the first inner cover 144, and a plurality of first guide impellers 146 configured apart from each other along the circumferential direction on the first air supply flow path 140a formed between the first air supply body 142 and the first inner cover 144.

[0081] The first air supply guide 140 forms an annular first air supply flow path 140a for the air discharged from the first fan 132 to flow between the first air supply body 142 and the first inner cover 144.

[0082] The first guide vanes 146 guide air, which is discharged from the first fan 132 to the first air supply flow path 140a, upward. Each of the first guide vanes 146 can be formed in a curved plate shape that is vertically arranged in a manner close to the up-and-down direction. The first guide vanes 146 extend from the outer circumferential surface of the first inner cover 144 toward the inner circumferential surface of the first air supply body 142. The first guide vanes 146 can be arranged apart from each other. The first guide vanes 146 perform a function of guiding air, which passes through the first fan 132 and flows into the first air supply flow path 140a of the first air supply guide 140, upward.

[0083] The first fan motor 134 can be supported on the upper side of the first inner cover 144. In addition, the rotational shaft of the first fan motor 134 can extend downward from the first fan motor 134, penetrate the bottom surface portion of the first inner cover 144, and be connected to the first hub 132a.

[0084] The first air supply device 100 further includes a base 180 disposed on the lower side of the first housing 110 and arranged on the ground. The base 180 is arranged apart downward from the lower end portion of the first housing 110. A partition space between the first housing 110 and the base 180 is formed with a base suction portion 114.

[0085] The air cleaner 10 includes a partition plate 160 disposed between the first air supply device 100 and the second air supply device 200. The second air supply device 200 can be arranged apart upward from the first air supply device 100 under the action of the partition plate 160.

[0086] The partition plate 160 can separate or block air flows generated from the first air supply device 100 and the second air supply device 200. The first and second air supply devices 100, 200 can be arranged apart from each other in the up-and-down direction under the action of the partition plate 160.

[0087] A partition space in which the partition plate 160 is arranged is formed between the first air supply device 100 and the second air supply device 200.

[0088] The partition plate 160 includes a first partition plate 162 and a second partition plate 164 arranged on the upper side of the first partition plate 162. The first partition plate 162 extends upward in a manner having a curvature, and the second partition plate 164 extends downward in a manner having a curvature. The first partition plate 162 extends upward toward the first discharge cover 150. At least a portion of the first partition plate 162 is formed in a curved surface portion having a prescribed radius of curvature. A PCB device (not shown) can be arranged inside the partition plate 160.

[0089] The first discharge cover 150 of the first air supply device 100 is disposed on the lower side of the partition plate 160, and the support plate 170 of the second air supply device 200 is disposed on the upper side of the partition plate 160.

[0090] The second air supply device further includes a support plate 170 supporting a second filter 220 of the second air supply device 200. The support plate 170 has a substantially annular shape. The support plate is disposed on the upper side of the second partition plate 164.

[0091] The support plate 170 has an annular shape, and extends from an inner circumferential surface to an outer circumferential surface slightly inclined upward with respect to the axial direction.

[0092] The second housing 210 can have a cylindrical shape. The upper portion of the second housing 210 can be configured to have a smaller diameter than the lower portion. The second housing 210 is formed with a second suction port 212 that suctions air. The second suction port 212 is elongated in the vertical direction, and is formed with a plurality of suction ports spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0093] The plurality of second suction ports 212 are uniformly formed in the circumferential direction along the outer circumferential surface of the second housing 210, so that air suction can be achieved in any direction with the second housing 210 as a reference.

[0094] Likewise, in the second air supply device 200, the second filter 220 is disposed in the second filter frame 222, and can be described in the same manner as described above in the first filter 120 and the first filter frame 122.

[0095] The second air supply device 200 includes a second fan 232 disposed on the upper side of the second filter 220 and forming a flow of air, a second fan motor 234 for rotating the second fan, and a second fan housing 230 in which the second fan 232 is disposed. The second fan 232, the second fan motor 234, and the second fan housing 230 described above have the same structure and similar shape as the first fan 132, the first fan motor 134, and the first fan housing 130 described above, and can perform the same function. Therefore, the second fan 232 can have the shape of an oblique flow fan, and is composed of a hub 232a, a shroud 232b, and a plurality of blades 232c, like the first fan 132.

[0096] The second air supply device 200 further includes a second air supply guide 240 disposed at an upper side of the second fan 232 and guiding air passing through the second fan 232 upward. The second air supply guide 240 includes a second air supply body 242 having a cylindrical shape and forming an appearance, a second inner cover 244 having a bowl shape and disposed at a central portion of the second air supply body 242, in which the second fan motor 234 is inserted, and a plurality of second guide impellers 246 disposed at the second air supply guide 240a formed between the second air supply body 242 and the second inner cover 244 in a circumferential direction to be spaced apart from each other. The second air supply body 242, the second inner cover 244, and the plurality of second guide impellers 246 have the same structure and similar shapes as those of the first air supply body 142, the first inner cover 144, and the plurality of first guide impellers 146 described above, and can perform the same functions.

[0097] A second discharge cover 250 is disposed at an upper portion of the second air supply device 200 and forms a second discharge outlet 252 opened upward. The second discharge outlet 252 can be formed in a ring shape. The second discharge cover 250 is provided with a second discharge grill 258 formed in a radial manner from the second discharge outlet 252.

[0098] Referring to Figure 3 The second discharge cover 250 includes an outer peripheral surface 254 disposed at an upper side of the second housing 210 and forming a frame in a cylindrical shape, a guide base 256 disposed at an inner side of the outer peripheral surface 254, and a plurality of second discharge grills 258 extending from the guide base 256 to the outer peripheral surface 254 in a radial manner.

[0099] The air cleaner 10 includes a movement guide 260 rotatably disposed at the guide base 256 and supporting arrangement of the circulator 300, and a mover 270 moving along the movement guide 260 and changing an inclination angle of the circulator 300.

[0100] The movement guide 260 is rotatably disposed at an upper side of the guide base 256 and supports arrangement of the circulator 300. The movement guide 260 is rotatably disposed at an upper side of the guide base 256 and supports arrangement of the circulator 300.

[0101] The guide base 256 has a disc shape and arranges the second discharge grills 258 at a periphery. The movement guide 260 can be rotatably disposed at the guide base 256. A space in which a movement gear 262 and a gear motor (not shown) are arranged is formed at an inner side of the movement guide 260.

[0102] The moving device 270 is combined with the circulator 300 and moves along the moving guide 260. The moving device 270 can change the inclination angle of the circulator 300. The moving device 270 includes a guide plate 272 which is convexly formed toward the moving guide 260. The guide plate 272 is formed with a gear track 274 which engages with the moving gear 262.

[0103] The moving device 270 is combined with the lower surface of the circulator 300, thereby being able to shield a part of the suction port 310a formed at the lower portion of the circulator 300. That is, the moving device 270 shields a part of the suction port 310a formed at the lower portion of the circulator 300, thereby being able to reduce the flow rate of air suctioned into the circulator 300.

[0104] The moving guide 260 is rotatably disposed at the guide base 256. The moving guide 260 can be rotatably disposed at the center of the guide base 256. The moving guide 260 can rotate with the center of the guide base 256 as a reference, thereby changing the direction toward which the circulator 300 faces.

[0105] The rack gear 264 is disposed at the peripheral surface of one side of the moving guide 260.

[0106] The planetary gear 266 which engages with and rotates the rack gear 264 and the motor 268 for operating the planetary gear 266 can be disposed at one side of the second discharge grill 258. The planetary gear 266 and the motor 268 can be disposed at a part of the area in which a plurality of second discharge grills 258 are arranged.

[0107] The second filter 220 can have a cylindrical shape of which the upper and lower sides are open. The second filter 220 further includes a second filter frame 222 which forms an installation space of the second filter 220.

[0108] The circulator 300 can be disposed at the upper side of the second air supply device 200. The circulator 300 can adjust the wind direction of air which is discharged upward from the second air supply device 200. The circulator 300 can be disposed parallel to or inclined from the plane formed by the second discharge port 252 at the upper side of the second discharge port 252 of the second air supply device 200.

[0109] <circulator>

[0110] Hereinafter, the circulator of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figures 3-9 The circulator of the present embodiment will be described.

[0111] The circulator 300 is formed with a suction port 310a and a discharge port 320a, and can deliver filtered air which is discharged from the second air supply device 200 to a long distance.

[0112] The circulator 300 is disposed above the second air supply device 200. The circulator 300 can be arranged above the second air supply device 200 and will radially transmit the air discharged to the upper side by the second air supply device 200.

[0113] Reference Figures 6-7 The circulator 300 includes: a lower cover 310 forming an intake port 310a; an upper cover 320 forming an exhaust port 320a; a blower fan 330 disposed between the lower cover 310 and the upper cover 320, which generates airflow by rotating; a motor 340 disposed between the blower fan 330 and the lower cover 310, and used to rotate the blower fan 330; and an inner cover 350 disposed on the underside of the blower fan 330 and around the periphery of the motor 340.

[0114] Reference Figures 6-7 The circulator 300 also includes: a filter 400 that filters the air flowing through the intake port 310a formed on the lower cover 310; a support 370 disposed between the upper cover 320 and the fan 330 and supporting the upper cover 320; an outer cover 380 that covers the outer side of the exhaust guide 322 of the upper cover 320; and a display 390 disposed on the upper side of the support 370 and displaying the operation or status of the air purifier 10.

[0115] The blower fan 330 can be a diagonal-flow fan with a circular intake 330a formed on the lower side and an annular discharge 330b formed on the upper side. The blower fan 330 draws in air through the intake 330a formed on the lower side and discharges air through the discharge 330b formed at an angle to the radially upward side. The intake 330a of the blower fan 330 is located on the upper side of the lower cover 310.

[0116] Therefore, a portion of the intake 330a of the blower fan 330 can be blocked by the lower plate 314 of the lower cover 310, which will be described below. This can act as an element to prevent the flow of air that forms an eddy on the upper side of the lower plate 314 of the lower cover 310 and is drawn into the intake 330a of the blower fan 330.

[0117] Reference Figure 3 The blower fan 330 includes: a hub 332, in which a motor shaft 342 is coupled; a shroud 334, which is disposed separately from the hub 332 and has an intake port 330a for air intake formed in the center; and a plurality of blades 338 disposed between the hub 332 and the shroud.

[0118] A plurality of blades 338 are disposed between the hub 332 and the shroud 334. The upper end of the blade 338 is engaged with the lower surface of the hub 332, and the lower end is engaged with the upper surface of the shroud 334. The plurality of blades 338 are arranged circumferentially spaced from each other on the periphery of the hub 332.

[0119] The hub 332 includes an inner hub 332a formed protruding upward to form a space for arranging the motor 340 configured at a lower side, and an outer hub 332b extending radially from the inner hub 332a and formed inclined upward.

[0120] The inner hub 332a can be formed in a bowl shape protruding upward. A motor connecting member 333, to which a motor shaft 342 connected to and rotated with the motor 340 is connected, can be configured at a center of the inner hub 332a. The motor connecting member 333 is a hollow portion having an inside thereof open in a vertical direction, and the motor shaft 342 can penetrate the motor connecting member 333 and be connected.

[0121] The outer hub 332b can form an inclined surface extending upward more as it extends to a radial outer side. The outer hub 332b can guide air suctioned through the suction port 330a to flow upward in a radial direction. Upper ends of the vanes 338 are combined with a lower side of the outer hub 332b.

[0122] The shroud 334 is formed with a circular suction port 330a for suction of air at a central portion. The shroud 334 is configured at a lower side of the hub 332. The shroud 334 is configured spaced downward from the outer hub 332b. The shroud 334 has a form extending upward more as it extends to a radial outer side. A diameter 330aD of the suction port 330a formed on the shroud 334 is smaller than a diameter 310aD of the suction port 310a formed on the lower cover 310 and a diameter 350aD of the suction port 350a formed on the inner cover 350. The vanes 338 are combined at an upper side of the shroud 334.

[0123] The shroud 334 is formed such that an outer circumferential end thereof is formed inclined in a direction opposite to a direction of the suction port 330a. The outer circumferential end of the shroud 334 indicates an upper end periphery of the shroud 334. To cause air to be inclined upward and discharged, the outer circumferential end of the shroud 334 is formed inclined upward.

[0124] Referring to Figure 8 , a direction toward which the outer circumferential end of the shroud 334 is inclined is preferably parallel to a direction toward which an outer circumferential end of the outer hub 332b is inclined, or is inclined more downward than the direction toward which the outer circumferential end of the outer hub 332b is inclined. Accordingly, a gap L1 between the inner circumferential end of the shroud 334 and the inner circumferential end of the outer hub 332b can be shorter than a gap L2 between the outer circumferential end of the shroud 334 and the outer circumferential end of the outer hub 332b.

[0125] A length 334L of the shroud 334 extending from the suction port 330a to the outer circumferential end ("a length of the shroud") is shorter than a length 332bL of the outer hub 332b extending from the inner circumferential end to the outer circumferential end ("a length of the outer hub").

[0126] The outer peripheral end of the shroud 334 is disposed at a lower position than the inner peripheral end of the outer hub 332b. The outer peripheral end of the outer hub 332b is disposed closer to the rotation shaft of the blower fan 330 than the inner peripheral end of the shroud 334. The diameter 330aD of the inner peripheral end of the shroud 334 can be greater than the diameter 332D of the outer peripheral end of the outer hub 332b.

[0127] The blower fan 330 includes suction guides 336 protruding downward from the inner peripheral end of the shroud 334. The suction guides 336 extend downward at portions where the suction ports 330a are formed, and can have the same diameter at the upper end and the lower end. The suction ports 330a formed between the suction guides 336 are disposed with the motor 340 and the housing 352 disposed at the periphery of the motor 340.

[0128] The interval L3 between the lower housing 356 of the inner cover 350 to be described below and the suction guides 336 can be formed substantially similarly to the interval L1 between the inner peripheral end of the shroud 334 and the inner peripheral end of the outer hub 332b. The interval L3 between the lower housing 356 and the suction guides 336 can be formed to be 0.9 to 1.1 times the interval L1 between the inner peripheral end of the shroud 334 and the inner peripheral end of the outer hub 332b. The interval L3 between the lower housing 356 and the suction guides 336 is smaller than the interval L2 between the outer peripheral end of the shroud 334 and the outer peripheral end of the outer hub 332b. The interval L4 between the lower housing 356 and the bell mouth 360 to be described below is greater than the interval L1 between the inner peripheral end of the shroud 334 and the inner peripheral end of the outer hub 332b.

[0129] Referring to Figure 3 The motor 340 is disposed at the lower side of the blower fan 330. The motor 340 is disposed in the space formed downward of the inner hub 332a, and is connected to the motor connecting member 333 of the inner hub 332a. The motor 340 includes a motor shaft 342 extending upward and connected to the hub 332. The motor 340 is disposed at the upper side of the lower cover 310. The motor 340 is disposed at the upper side of the lower plate 314 of the lower cover 310 to be described below. Accordingly, the motor 340 does not interfere with the flow of air flowing into the suction port 310a of the lower cover 310 and toward the blower fan 330.

[0130] The motor 340 is disposed at the upper side of the lower plate 314 of the lower cover 310 to be described below. The motor 340 is disposed in the space at the lower side of the inner hub 332a of the blower fan 330. The motor 340 can be disposed in the suction port 330a formed by the shroud 334. The motor 340 is disposed at the upper side of the lower plate 314, thereby being able to prevent a vortex formed at the upper side of the suction port 310a blocked by the lower plate 314. The motor 340 can be fixedly disposed in the inner cover 350 to be described below.

[0131] Referring to Figure 7The inner cover 350 is disposed at the lower side of the supply fan 330 and forms a space in which the motor 340 is disposed. The inner cover 350 is formed with a suction port 350a through which air flows toward the suction port 330a of the supply fan 330. The suction port 350a formed in the inner cover 350 is provided with a plurality of grilles 364. The plurality of grilles 364 are disposed in a crisscross manner in the vertical direction.

[0132] Since the motor 340 is installed in the housing 352, a large amount of vibration is generated. The vibration generated by the housing can be transmitted to the inner plate 358. Therefore, by disposing the plurality of grilles 364 connecting the inner plate 358 and the housing 352 in a crisscross manner in the vertical direction, rigidity can be enhanced.

[0133] Referring to Figure 9 The inner cover 350 includes a housing 352 forming a space in which the motor 340 disposed at the lower side of the supply fan 330 is disposed, an inner plate 358 disposed apart from the housing 352 to the radially outer side and disposed at the lower side of the shroud 334, a grille 364 disposed in the suction port 350a formed between the inner plate 358 and the housing 352, and a bell mouth 360 protruding upward from the inner circumferential end of the inner plate 358.

[0134] The inner cover 350 further includes a first connecting plate 362 spanning the suction port 350a formed in the inner cover 350 and connecting the housing 352 and the inner plate 358. The first connecting plate 362 extends from the housing 352 to the radially outer side and is connected to the inner plate 358. The suction port 350a formed in the inner cover 350 can have a ring shape in which a portion thereof is closed by the first connecting plate 362.

[0135] The housing 352 forms a space in which the motor 340 is disposed inside. The housing 352 is disposed at the upper side of the lower plate 314 of the lower cover 310 to be described later and can guide air flowing into the suction port 310a of the lower cover 310. The housing 352 can prevent vortex generated at the upper side of the lower plate 314. The housing 352 is disposed extending upward from the upper side of the lower plate 314 and can guide air flowing toward the suction port 310a of the lower cover 310.

[0136] Referring to Figure 8 The housing 352 extends upward in parallel with the bell mouth 360. The housing 352 and the bell mouth 360 can guide air flowing into the suction port 310 of the lower cover 310 upward. The housing 352 and the bell mouth 360 can guide air flowing into the suction port 310 of the lower cover 310 toward the suction port 330a of the supply fan 330.

[0137] The housing 352 includes an upper housing 354 disposed at the lower side of the inner hub 332a of the supply fan 330 and a lower housing 356 disposed at the lower side of the upper housing 354.

[0138] The upper case 354 is disposed in a space formed by the inner hub 332a protruding upwardly at the lower side. The upper case 354 can have a cylindrical shape with a hollow inside and an open lower side. A hole 353 through which the motor shaft 342 of the motor 340 passes is formed at the upper side of the upper case 354.

[0139] The lower case 356 has a diameter greater than that of the upper case 354 and extends downwardly. In the region in which the suction port 350a is formed, the outer peripheral end diameter 356D of the lower case 356 is smaller than the inner peripheral end diameter 332bD of the outer hub 332b. The upper end of the lower case 356 is disposed at a position lower than the inner peripheral end of the outer hub 332b and at a position higher than the inner peripheral end of the shroud 334. The upper end of the lower case 356 and the inner peripheral end of the outer hub 332b are spaced apart in the vertical direction by a distance D1 that is shorter than the distance D2 by which the upper end of the lower case 356 and the inner peripheral end of the shroud 334 are spaced apart in the vertical direction. The peripheral edge surface of the lower case 356 can guide air flowing upwardly through the suction port 350a of the inner cap 350 outwardly toward the outer hub 332b.

[0140] The lower case 356 can be formed with a protrusion 357 protruding in a direction in which the suction port 350a of the inner cap 350 is not formed and arranged with a wire adapter (not shown) connected to the motor 340. The motor 340 can be fastened to the lower case 356 using an additional fastening member (not shown). The motor 340 is fixedly disposed in the case 352. The motor 340 can be disposed spaced apart upwardly from the lower case 356.

[0141] The upper case 354 can be disposed in a space formed by the inner hub 332a protruding upwardly at the lower side. The diameter of the upper case 354 is shorter than the diameter formed by the inner peripheral end of the outer hub 332b.

[0142] Referring to Figure 8 , the inner plate 358 forms a space in which the lower portion of the supply fan 330 is accommodated. The inner plate 358 is formed at the inner side with a suction port 350a through which air flows into the supply fan 330. The inner plate 358 is disposed at the lower side of the shroud 334 of the supply fan 330.

[0143] The inner plate 358 is disposed with a horn 360 protruding upwardly from a portion adjacent to the suction port 350a of the inner cap 350. The horn 360 is formed protruding upwardly from the inner peripheral end of the inner plate 358.

[0144] The horn 360 has a ring shape and is disposed spaced apart outwardly of the suction guide 336 of the shroud 334. The horn 360 can guide air flowing into the suction port 350a of the inner cap 350 toward the suction port 330a of the supply fan 330.

[0145] The bell mouth 360 can be configured substantially in parallel with the suction guide 336 of the inner cover 350. An upper end of the bell mouth 360 is formed higher than a lower end of the suction guide 336. The bell mouth 360 is configured radially outside the suction guide 336. A diameter 360D of the bell mouth 360 is greater than a diameter 336D of the suction guide 336.

[0146] The bell mouth 360 includes an upper bell mouth 360a protruding upward from an inner circumferential end of the inner plate 358, and a lower bell mouth 360b protruding downward from an inner circumferential end of the inner plate 368.

[0147] Referring to Figures 6-7 , the lower cover 310 is configured at a lower side of the motor 340 and the motor cover 350. The lower cover 310 covers a lower side of the blower fan 330 and the motor 340. In the lower cover 310, a suction inlet 310a for suction of external air is formed at a lower side of a suction inlet 350a formed in the inner cover 350.

[0148] Referring to Figure 7 , the lower cover 310 includes an outer plate 312 configured at a lower side of the inner plate 358 of the inner cover 350, a lower plate 314 configured to be spaced apart from the outer plate 312 radially inward and cover a lower side of the motor 340, a second connecting plate 316 configured at a lower side of the first connecting plate 362 of the inner cover 350 and connecting the lower plate 314 and the outer plate 312, and a plurality of ribs 318 configured in the suction inlet 310a formed between the lower plate 314 and the outer plate 312 and connecting the lower plate 314 and the outer plate 312.

[0149] Referring to Figure 8 , the outer plate 312 is configured at a lower side of the inner plate 358 of the inner cover 350. The outer plate 312 has a shape extending upward more as it extends radially outward. The outer plate 312 can have a curved shape in which at least a portion thereof protrudes outward. Such a curved shape can form an air flow in which a portion of air discharged upward flows along a direction in which a discharge outlet 320a of the circulation device 300 faces, which is formed by the outer plate 312.

[0150] Referring to Figure 7 , the lower plate 314 covers a lower side surface of the housing 352. The lower plate 314 has a substantially circular shape and is connected to the moving device 270 that changes the arrangement of the circulation device 300 at a lower side. The lower plate 314 covers a center of the suction inlet 310a formed in the lower cover 310. That is, the suction inlet 330a of the blower fan 330 is closed in a partial area by the lower plate 314.

[0151] The lower plate 314 is disposed at the lower side of the suction port 330a of the blowing fan 330, and can obstruct the flow of air flowing into the suction port 330a of the blowing fan 330. Also, since a portion of the suction port 330a of the blowing fan 330 is blocked, a problem of causing vortex of air at the upper side of the lower plate 314 can occur. However, in the present application, the motor 340 is disposed at the upper side of the lower plate 314, thereby minimizing the area in which vortex of air can occur at the inner side of the suction port 330a of the blowing fan 330.

[0152] Also, a housing 352 surrounding the motor 340 is disposed at the upper side of the lower plate 314, and the housing 352 can guide air flowing between the shroud 334 and the outer hub 332b of the blowing fan 330.

[0153] The second connecting plate 316 extends from one side of the lower plate 314 to the radial outer side, and is connected to the outer plate 312. The second connecting plate 316 can be coupled to the lower plate 314 and the moving device 270.

[0154] The second connecting plate 316 can be disposed at the lower side of the first connecting plate 362. The second connecting plate 316 is disposed apart from the lower side of the first connecting plate 362. A space for arranging an electric wire connected to the motor 340 or the display 390 can be formed between the second connecting plate 316 and the first connecting plate 362.

[0155] Referring to Figure 7 A portion in which the suction port 310a of the lower cover 310 is formed can be provided with a filter 400. The filter 400 is installed in the lower cover 310, and can filter air flowing into the suction port 310a of the lower cover 310.

[0156] Referring to Figures 6-7 The upper cover 320 includes a discharge guide 322 having a cylindrical shape and forming an appearance, a connecting ring 324 having a ring shape and being disposed apart from the discharge guide 322 to the radial inner side, and a plurality of impellers 326 disposed in the annular discharge port 320a formed between the discharge guide 322 and the connecting ring 324 to guide air flowing by the blowing fan 330 to the upper side.

[0157] Referring to Figure 8 The discharge guide 322 forms the annular discharge port 320a at the inner side. The discharge guide 322 has a cylindrical shape, and extends to the upper side to flow air discharged from the blowing fan 330 to the upper side. The discharge guide 322 can have a form in which the radial thickness thereof decreases from the lower end to the upper end. Accordingly, the diameter 332D formed at the inner circumferential end of the discharge guide 322 can increase from the lower side to the upper side.

[0158] Referring to Figure 8, the connecting ring 324 can be arranged at the position formed at the upper end of the discharge guide 322. The connecting ring 324 can be arranged in a manner that contacts a support member 370 to be described below. An annular discharge port 320a can be formed between the connecting ring 324 and the discharge guide 322.

[0159] A plurality of impellers 326 are respectively connected to the discharge guide 322 and the connecting ring 324, and can be arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The outer ends of each of the plurality of impellers 326 are connected to the lower end of the discharge guide 322, and the inner ends are connected to the connecting ring 324. Therefore, each of the plurality of impellers 326 can have a shape that extends more upward toward the center direction of the air supply fan 330. In order to offset the rotational component of the air flowing through the air supply fan 330, the lower end portions of the plurality of impellers 326 can be formed into curved surfaces, and the more upward, the more straight surfaces are formed.

[0160] The plurality of impellers 326 can have a shape in which the thickness decreases from the outer end toward the inner end.

[0161] Refer to Figures 6-7 , the support member 370 includes: an outer frame 372, which is annular and arranged at the upper end of the inner plate 358 of the inner cover 350; an upper plate 374, which is disc-shaped and arranged above the hub 332 of the air supply fan 330; a connecting frame 376, which connects the outer frame 372 and the upper plate 374 and supports the upper plate 374.

[0162] Refer to Figure 8 , the outer frame 372 has an annular shape and is arranged above the upper end of the inner plate 358. The outer frame 372 has a cross-section in a "C" shape that is open downward. A space for arranging electric wires can be formed between the outer frame 372 and the inner plate 358.

[0163] The upper plate 374 has a disc shape and is configured to cover the upper side of the hub 332. The upper plate 374 can support the display 390 arranged on the upper side. The upper plate 374 has a diameter smaller than that of the outer frame 372 and is arranged at a position higher than the outer frame 372.

[0164] The connecting frame 376 connects the outer frame 372 and the upper plate 374 and can support the upper plate 374.

[0165] Refer to Figure 6 , the outer cover 380 is arranged on the outer peripheral edge of the discharge guide 322 of the upper cover 320. The outer cover 380 has a cylindrical shape that is open in the vertical direction.

[0166] Refer to Figure 6The display 390 is positioned on the upper side of the upper panel 374. The display 390 has a touchpad, enabling it to receive user input commands. The display 390 can show the user the operating status of the air purifier 10 or environmental information about the indoor space.

[0167] The following is based on Table 1. Figure 10a The present invention and Figure 10b The differences in the structure of the comparative example caused by the operation of the circulator will be explained.

[0168] [Table 1]

[0169] Comparative Example The Invention Rotational speed (rpm) 870 870 Air volume (CMM) 4.5 4.8 Consumed power (W) 9.0 8.5 Arrival distance (m) 8 9

[0170] Table 1 shows the situation as follows: Figure 10a The flared opening 360 of the present invention is disposed on the outside of the inhalation guide 336 and as shown in the figure. Figure 10b The data corresponding to the operation of the circulator is contained in the flared port 360' disposed inside the suction guide 336.

[0171] In the structure of the present invention, where the lower plate 314 of the lower cover 310 blocks a portion of the intake 330a of the blower fan 330, the flared opening 360 disposed outside the intake guide 336 can function as an element to suppress the amount of air flowing into the blower fan 330.

[0172] In such Figure 10a When the flare 360 ​​is positioned on the outside of the suction guide 336, it is in conjunction with... Figure 10b Compared to the previous structure, as can be confirmed by Table 1, even at the same rotational speed of the blower fan 330, its airflow increases. Furthermore, as the airflow through the blower fan 330 increases, the distance the air flowing using the blower fan 330 can reach also increases. This can be achieved through… Figure 10a The reach distance of the circulator based on the present invention is compared to Figure 10b This is confirmed by the case where the arrival distance of the circulator based on the comparison example increases.

[0173] Furthermore, when the flared opening 360' is disposed inside the suction guide 336, it can act as a resistance to the air flowing into the blower fan 330, potentially increasing power consumption during the operation of the blower fan 330. As can be seen in Table 1, when the flared opening 360 of the present invention is disposed outside the suction guide 336, the power consumption of the blower fan 330 is relatively low.

[0174] Reference Figure 11aA circulator of a second embodiment will be described. The circulator 300 of the second embodiment can include a protrusion 366 protruding radially inward from a lower end of the bell mouth 360. The protrusion 366 can guide air flowing in through the suction port 310a of the lower cover 310 to the suction port 330a formed on the supply fan 330.

[0175] The protrusion 366 protrudes radially inward from the lower end of the bell mouth 360. The protrusion 366 protrudes radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the bell mouth 360. The protrusion 366 is formed to increase in length protruding radially inward as it goes upward from the lower end. The protrusion 366 can form a curved surface protruding toward the center of the suction port 310a formed on the lower cover 310.

[0176] The protrusion 366 can have a ring shape and be disposed on the inner circumferential surface of the bell mouth 360. The inner circumferential end of the protrusion 366 can have a diameter greater than or equal to that of the suction guide 336. Here, the inner circumferential end of the protrusion 366 can mean an inner end of the upper end of the protrusion 366.

[0177] Referring to Figure 11b A circulator of a third embodiment will be described. The circulator 300 of the third embodiment includes ribs 368a, 368b protruding in directions toward each other of the inner plate 358 and the shroud 334, respectively. The inner plate 358 and the shroud 334 can include the ribs 368a, 368b protruding in directions toward each other on surfaces facing each other, respectively.

[0178] The shroud 334 can include a first rib 368a protruding toward the inner plate 358 at a position spaced apart radially outward from the suction guide 336. The first rib 368a can be formed protruding toward a lower side on which the inner plate 358 is disposed. The first rib 368a can have a ring shape and protrude from a lower surface of the shroud 334 toward a lower side.

[0179] The inner plate 358 can include a second rib 368b protruding toward the shroud 334 at a position spaced apart radially outward from the bell mouth 360. The second rib 368b can be formed protruding toward an upper side on which the shroud 334 is disposed. The second rib 368b can have a ring shape and protrude from an upper surface of the inner plate 358 toward an upper side.

[0180] A lower end of the first rib 368a is formed lower than an upper end of the second rib 368b. Thus, the first rib 368a and the second rib 368b can block the flow of air flowing in through the suction port 330a of the supply fan 330 between the shroud 334 and the inner plate 358. That is, air flowing through the suction port 330a of the supply fan 330 between the shroud 334 and the inner plate 358 can be first blocked by the first rib 368a and the second rib 368b and then blocked again by the structure of the bell mouth 360 and the suction guide 336.

[0181] The preferred embodiments of the present application have been illustrated and described above, but the present application is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, but can be variously modified by those skilled in the art to which the present application pertains without departing from the spirit of the present application as claimed in the claims, and such modified embodiments should not be construed as being understood from the technical idea or prospect of the present application alone.

Claims

1. An air purifier, wherein, include: Air supply device; A circulator, located downstream of the air supply device, regulates the airflow direction of the air discharged from the air supply device; as well as A movable device, coupled to the circulator, is supported by the air supply device and is movable relative to the air supply device to change the arrangement of the circulator. The circulator includes: The lower cover includes a lower plate and an outer plate, the lower plate being combined with the moving device, and the outer plate being spaced from the periphery of the lower plate to form an intake port between the outer plate and the lower plate; The inner cover includes a housing and an inner plate, the housing being spaced from the lower plate toward the inside of the circulator, and the inner plate being spaced from the periphery of the housing and facing the outer plate; The motor is supported by the inner side of the lower plate; An air supply fan includes: a hub connected to the motor; a plurality of moving blades extending obliquely from the hub toward the inlet; and a shroud extending circumferentially to connect the ends of the plurality of moving blades and facing the inner plate; The upper cover covers a plurality of the moving blades, forming an outlet; and An outer cover is disposed on the outer periphery of the upper cover.

2. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The inner cover includes: The flared opening protrudes from the inner end of the inner plate toward the protective cover and is arranged radially spaced from the inner end of the protective cover.

3. The air purifier according to claim 2, wherein, The air supply fan includes: A cylindrical suction guide protrudes downward from the inner circumferential end of the shield and is located radially inside the flared mouth.

4. The air purifier according to claim 2, wherein, The horn-shaped opening includes: The upper flared opening protrudes upward from the inner circumferential end of the inner plate; and The lower flared end protrudes downward from the inner periphery of the inner plate.

5. The air purifier according to claim 3, wherein, The upper end of the horn-shaped opening is higher than the lower end of the inhalation guide.

6. The air purifier according to claim 3, wherein, The vertical length of the flare is greater than the distance between the flare and the inhalation guide.

7. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The inner cover includes: A plurality of grilles, arranged vertically in a crisscross pattern, connect the housing and the inner panel.

8. The air purifier according to claim 2, wherein, The hub includes: An inner hub is formed protruding upwards, thereby creating a space on the lower side for mounting the motor; and The outer hub extends radially upwards at an angle from the inner hub. The gap between the housing and the flared opening is greater than the gap between the inner circumferential end of the shield and the inner circumferential end of the outer hub.

9. The air purifier according to claim 2, wherein, Also includes: A protrusion that extends radially inward from the lower end of the flared opening.

10. The air purifier according to claim 9, wherein, The length of the protrusion that extends radially inward increases as it rises upward from the lower end.

11. The air purifier according to claim 9, wherein, The air supply fan includes: A cylindrical suction guide protrudes downward from the inner circumferential end of the shield and is located radially inside the flared mouth. The diameter of the inner circumferential end of the protrusion is greater than or equal to the diameter of the suction guide.

12. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, One of the inner plate and the protective cover is provided with a rib that protrudes towards the other.

13. The air purifier according to claim 2, wherein, The protective cover includes: The first rib extends circumferentially and protrudes towards the inner plate. The inner plate includes: The second rib extends circumferentially and protrudes toward the shield at a position spaced radially outward from the flared opening.

14. The air purifier according to claim 13, wherein, The ends of the first rib and the ends of the second rib overlap each other radially.

15. The air purifier according to claim 8, wherein, The distance between the inner circumferential end of the shield and the inner circumferential end of the outer hub is smaller than the distance between the outer circumferential end of the shield and the outer circumferential end of the outer hub.

16. The air purifier according to claim 8, wherein, The length of the protective cover extending from the inner peripheral end to the outer peripheral end is shorter than the length of the outer hub extending from the inner peripheral end to the outer peripheral end.

17. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The protective cover is tilted radially towards the discharge port. The inner plate and the outer plate extend in a circumferential direction and are inclined parallel to the protective cover.

18. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The top cover includes: A cylindrical ejection guide forms the appearance; A connecting ring, having a ring shape, is configured to be radially inwardly spaced from the ejection guide; and A plurality of stationary blades are disposed at the outlet formed between the discharge guide and the connecting ring, and guide the air flowing by the blower fan toward the discharge guide.

19. The air purifier according to claim 18, wherein, The outer cover is disposed on the outer periphery of the ejection guide and has a cylindrical shape.

20. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a support member disposed between the upper cover and the air supply fan. The support member includes: The upper plate is separated from the hub; The ring-shaped outer frame is supported by the inner plate; and A connecting frame extends obliquely along the moving blade to connect the upper plate and the outer frame.

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