Humidifying device and air conditioner
By controlling the water level changes in the water supply chamber through the water level control module, the humidifier can quickly replenish and disconnect water in humidification and shutdown modes, solving the problem of prolonged humidification after shutdown and improving the efficiency and energy-saving effect of the humidifier.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- MIDEA GROUP WUHAN REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2023-05-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-24
AI Technical Summary
Existing humidifiers need to continue humidifying for more than half an hour after shutdown, resulting in a long shutdown time and high energy consumption.
The water level in the water supply chamber is controlled by the water level control module, so that the water inlet is immersed in the water surface to obtain water in the humidification mode, and is removed from the water surface to disconnect the water supply in the shutdown mode. The humidification component is quickly dried by using water-absorbing materials or siphon principle.
It shortens the drying time of the humidifying components, reduces the duration of humidification after shutdown, and saves energy.
Smart Images

Figure CN116972467B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of humidification device technology, and particularly to a humidification device and an air conditioner. Background Technology
[0002] Currently, humidifiers typically use wet-film humidification to humidify the air. When the humidification function is on, the water tank maintains a certain water level so that the lower end of the wet film can be continuously immersed in water. When the user turns off the humidification function, because a significant amount of water remains in the water tank, the wet-film humidification unit needs to continue running for a period of time before shutting off. This allows the water in the tank and the moisture on the wet film to evaporate completely, keeping the wet film dry. This usually requires continuing humidification for more than half an hour, resulting in a relatively long humidification period after the humidifier is turned off. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The main objective of this invention is to provide a humidification device that aims to shorten the duration of humidification after the device has been shut down.
[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the humidification device proposed in this invention includes:
[0005] The water tank module is equipped with a water supply chamber;
[0006] A water level control module is located in the water tank module and is capable of controlling the water level in the water supply chamber between high and low levels.
[0007] The humidification module includes a humidifying element and a water-guiding element. The first end of the water-guiding element is located in the water supply chamber, and the second end is located in the humidifying element. When the water is at the high water level, the first end of the water-guiding element is below the water surface and guides the water to the humidifying element. When the water is at the low water level, the first end of the water-guiding element is above the water surface.
[0008] Optionally, the water level control module includes a driving component and an intrusion component movably disposed in the water supply chamber. The intrusion component is driven by the driving component to adjust the effective volume of the water supply chamber for water storage.
[0009] Optionally, the water tank module further includes a water storage chamber connected to the water supply chamber, and the water level control module can also control the connection between the water storage chamber and the water supply chamber so that water in the water storage chamber flows into the water supply chamber.
[0010] Optionally, the water level control module further includes a sealing member disposed at the connection between the water storage chamber and the water supply chamber, wherein the sealing member is opened or closed by the intrusion member.
[0011] Optionally, the sealing element includes at least one check valve for restricting the flow of water from the storage chamber to the supply chamber, and the intrusion element is capable of pushing the valve core of the check valve to open the check valve and allow water to flow from the storage chamber to the supply chamber.
[0012] Optionally, the water tank module includes a detachably connected water tank and a pipe joint, the water storage chamber is located in the water tank, the water supply chamber is located in the pipe joint, and two one-way valves are provided, with the two one-way valves respectively located in the water tank and the pipe joint, and the valve cores can push against each other.
[0013] Optionally, the water tank is provided with a tank outlet communicating with the water storage chamber, and the pipe joint is provided with a pipe inlet communicating with the water supply chamber. The tank outlet includes an internal pipe section and an external pipe section that are connected to each other. The external pipe section protrudes from the outer side of the water tank, and the outer peripheral wall of the pipe inlet is inserted into the external pipe section. The internal pipe section is provided with one of the one-way valves, and the pipe inlet is provided with another one-way valve.
[0014] Optionally, the water tank includes an intersecting and connected first tank section and a second tank section, with the first tank section located at the upper end of the second tank section, the lower end of the second tank section having a tank outlet, and the upper end of the first tank section having a tank inlet.
[0015] Optionally, the first housing portion has a mounting boss at one end away from the second housing portion, the mounting boss being disposed opposite to the second housing portion, and the mounting boss being used for the rebounder to push against it.
[0016] Optionally, the water supply chamber includes intersecting main pipe section and secondary pipe section, the water inlet is disposed in the secondary pipe section, the first end of the main pipe section is connected to the water storage chamber, and the second end is provided with a sliding hole, the intrusion member includes a sliding part and a push rod part connected to each other, the sliding part is driven to be connected to the driving member and slidably disposed in the sliding hole, and the free end of the push rod part is used to push the valve core of the one-way valve.
[0017] Optionally, the drive member has a rocker arm on its rotating shaft, the rocker arm revolves around the axis of the rotating shaft, the axis of the rotating shaft intersects the sliding direction of the sliding part, and the intrusion member further includes a connecting part provided on the sliding part, the rocker arm is slidably provided on the connecting part to push the sliding part to slide.
[0018] Optionally, the connecting part is provided with an elongated hole, the extension direction of the elongated hole intersects with the sliding direction of the sliding part, and the rocker arm includes a cylinder sleeved with the rotating shaft and a sliding column provided on the side of the cylinder and extending along the axial direction of the rotating shaft, the sliding column being inserted into the elongated hole.
[0019] Optionally, the humidification module further includes a pipe plug disposed on the secondary pipe section, and the first end of the water inlet passes through the pipe plug and extends into the main pipe section.
[0020] Optionally, the water-guiding element is made of an absorbent material, allowing water to flow from the first end of the water-guiding element to the second end.
[0021] Optionally, the water inlet is configured as a tubular structure, with the first end of the water inlet being higher than the second end of the water inlet, and the water in the first end of the water inlet can flow to the second end of the water inlet using the siphon principle.
[0022] Optionally, the humidifier includes a mounting frame and an evaporation plate disposed on the mounting frame, and the second end of the water inlet is disposed on the mounting frame and connected to the evaporation plate.
[0023] Optionally, the humidifying element is configured as an ultrasonic atomizer, and the second end of the water inlet is connected to the vibrating surface of the ultrasonic atomizer.
[0024] The present invention also proposes an air conditioner including the aforementioned humidification device.
[0025] Optionally, the air conditioner includes a housing and a fan disposed on the housing, the housing having a communicating air outlet and an air outlet channel, and the humidifying element of the humidifying device being at least partially exposed in the air outlet channel.
[0026] Optionally, the air outlet includes a top air outlet located at the upper end of the housing, the air outlet channel includes a top air outlet duct communicating with the top air outlet, the side wall of the top air outlet duct is provided with a mounting hole, and the humidifier is located in the mounting hole.
[0027] In this invention, the water level control module controls the rise and fall of the water level in the water supply chamber, enabling the water inlet component to quickly contact or detach from the water in the chamber. Specifically, when the humidifier enters humidification mode, the water level control module controls the water level in the water supply chamber to rise to a high level, allowing the first end of the water inlet component to extend into the water and receive moisture replenishment. When the humidifier enters shutdown mode, the water level control module controls the water level in the water supply chamber to drop to a low level, causing the first end of the water inlet component to detach from the water surface. This quickly disconnects the moisture supply to the water inlet component and the humidifier, facilitating rapid drying of the humidifier. In other words, it shortens the drying time of the humidifier and the duration of continued humidification after shutdown, while also saving energy consumption of the humidifier. Attached Figure Description
[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.
[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the humidification device of the present invention;
[0030] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Top view of the humidifier;
[0031] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the humidifier at point AA, with the one-way valve closed at this point;
[0032] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A partially enlarged view of the central humidifier from a frontal perspective, with the one-way valve closed.
[0033] Figure 5 for Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the humidifier at point AA, where the check valve is open;
[0034] Figure 6 for Figure 1 Another magnified view of the central humidifier from the front side, showing the one-way valve in operation;
[0035] Figure 7 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the intermediate water tank;
[0036] Figure 8 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the intrusion component;
[0037] Figure 9 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the middle pipe joint;
[0038] Figure 10 This is a front view of an embodiment of the air conditioner of the present invention;
[0039] Figure 11 for Figure 10 Cross-sectional view of the central air conditioner at point BB;
[0040] Figure 12 for Figure 11 Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the top-mounted air outlet duct and the humidifier;
[0041] Figure 13 for Figure 12 Exploded view of the components of the central top air outlet duct and humidification device;
[0042] Figure 14 for Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the central top air outlet duct and humidification device along the front-to-back direction;
[0043] Figure 15 for Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the central air conditioner at point CC.
[0044] Explanation of icon numbers:
[0045]
[0046]
[0047] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation
[0048] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0049] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.
[0050] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0051] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the meaning of "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions; for example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.
[0052] This invention proposes a humidification device applicable to air conditioners. This humidification device has a humidification mode and a shutdown mode. Please refer to [reference needed]. Figures 1 to 6 ,in, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The humidification devices in the middle are in the same state, that is, the one-way valve 23 is closed and the water in the water supply chamber 10a is at a low water level; Figure 5 and Figure 6 The humidification devices are in the same state, that is, the one-way valve 23 is open and the water in the water supply chamber 10a is at a high water level; Figures 3 to 6 A thin dotted line extending from the center in the left-right direction is used to represent the water level line; Figure 3 and Figure 5 The intrusion part 22 in the figure only shows a partial structure, including the sliding part 221 and the push rod part 222.
[0053] In one embodiment of the humidification device of the present invention, the humidification device includes:
[0054] Water tank module 10 is provided with water supply chamber 10a;
[0055] A water level control module is located in the water tank module 10 and can control the water level in the water supply chamber 10a between high and low water levels.
[0056] The humidification module 30 includes a humidifying element 31 and a water-guiding element 32. The first end of the water-guiding element 32 is located in the water supply chamber 10a, and the second end is located in the humidifying element 31. When the water level is high, the first end of the water-guiding element 32 is below the water surface and guides the water to the humidifying element 31. When the water level is low, the first end of the water-guiding element 32 is above the water surface.
[0057] In this invention, the water level control module controls the rise and fall of the water level in the water supply chamber 10a, enabling the water inlet 32 to quickly contact or detach from the water in the water supply chamber 10a. Specifically, when the humidifier enters the humidification mode, the water level control module controls the water level in the water supply chamber 10a to rise to a high level, allowing the first end of the water inlet 32 to extend into the water surface and receive water replenishment; when the humidifier enters the shutdown mode, the water level control module controls the water level in the water supply chamber 10a to drop to a low level, causing the first end of the water inlet 32 to detach from the water surface, thereby quickly disconnecting the water supply between the water inlet 32 and the humidifier 31, which is beneficial for the rapid drying of the humidifier 31. That is, it can shorten the drying time of the humidifier 31 and shorten the duration of humidification after shutdown, while saving energy consumption of the humidifier.
[0058] In one embodiment, the water-guiding element 32 is made of an absorbent material, allowing water to flow from the first end of the water-guiding element 32 to the second end. That is, water in the water supply chamber 10a first wets the first end of the water-guiding element 32, and then gradually wets the remaining portion, allowing water to be transported along the water-guiding element 32 to the humidifying element 31. Specifically, the absorbent material can be a sponge, cotton thread, wet film, or other material with good absorbency; this application does not impose specific limitations on this. It is understood that the absorbent material water-guiding element 32 can be made into a solid structure or a hollow tubular structure; this application also does not impose specific limitations on this.
[0059] Of course, in some embodiments, the water inlet 32 can also be configured as a tubular structure, with the first end of the water inlet 32 being higher than the second end of the water inlet 32. Water in the first end of the water inlet 32 can flow to the second end of the water inlet 32 using the siphon principle. That is, the water inlet 32 is configured as a water pipe. When the humidifying device enters the humidifying mode, the first end of the water inlet pipe extends into the water surface and the inside of the water inlet pipe is filled with water. Since the first end of the water inlet pipe is higher than its second end, the water in the water inlet pipe can flow continuously to the humidifying element 31 under the siphon effect until the first end of the water inlet pipe leaves the water surface.
[0060] It is understood that there are various ways to pre-fill the water inlet pipe with water. For example, a water pump can be installed at the first or second end of the water inlet pipe. The water pump delivers water from the water supply chamber 10a into the water inlet pipe to fill it with water. Then, the water pump stops running, allowing the water in the water inlet pipe to flow continuously to the humidifier 31 using the siphon principle. Of course, other active delivery methods can also be used to fill the water inlet pipe with water, and this application does not specifically limit this method.
[0061] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6In one embodiment, the humidifier 31 includes a mounting frame 311 and an evaporator plate 312 disposed on the mounting frame 311. The second end of the water guide 32 is disposed on the mounting frame 311 and connected to the evaporator plate 312. Specifically, the evaporator plate 312 can be made of a material with good water absorption capacity, such as a wet film, sponge, or cotton cloth. This application does not specifically limit this. That is, the evaporator plate 312 serves as an evaporation working surface so that the moisture on it can evaporate and enter the air. In an embodiment where the humidifier is applied to an air conditioner, the evaporator plate 312 is optionally at least partially exposed on the air outlet duct of the air conditioner so that the evaporated moisture can be carried away by the high-speed airflow, thereby improving the moisture evaporation efficiency of the evaporator plate 312. Further optionally, the side wall of the mounting frame 311 is provided with a plug hole 313, and the second end of the water guide 32 passes through the plug hole 313 and abuts against the evaporator plate 312 on the inner side of the mounting frame 311.
[0062] Of course, in other embodiments, the humidifier 31 can also be configured as an ultrasonic atomizer, and the second end of the water guide 32 is connected to the vibration surface of the ultrasonic atomizer. That is, the water on the second end of the water guide 32 is directly guided to the vibration surface of the ultrasonic atomizer to generate water mist under the vibration of the vibration surface.
[0063] Please refer to Figures 1 to 6 , Figure 8 In one embodiment, the water level control module includes a drive member 21 and an intrusion member 22 movably disposed in the water supply chamber 10a. The intrusion member 22, driven by the drive member 21, can adjust the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a for water storage. Thus, by adjusting the intrusion depth of the intrusion member 22 into the water supply chamber 10a, the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a for water storage can be adjusted. Specifically, when the humidifier enters the shutdown mode, the intrusion member 22 reduces its intrusion depth into the water supply chamber 10a to increase the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a. Since the volume of water in the water supply chamber 10a is limited, the water level in the water supply chamber 10a will drop rapidly, causing the first end of the water inlet member 32 to detach from the water.
[0064] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 5In one embodiment, the water tank module 10 further includes a water storage chamber 10b connected to the water supply chamber 10a. The water level control module can also control the connection between the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a, so that water in the water storage chamber 10b flows into the water supply chamber 10a. Thus, by controlling the amount of water supplied from the water storage chamber 10b to the water supply chamber 10a, the water level in the water supply chamber 10a can be controlled. Specifically, when the humidification device enters the humidification mode, the water level control module connects the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a, so that water in the water storage chamber 10b quickly flows into the water supply chamber 10a, raising the water level in the water supply chamber 10a. It is understandable that at this time, the intrusion depth of the intrusion member 22 on the water supply chamber 10a can be adjusted synchronously, that is, the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a changes synchronously, or the intrusion depth can be left unchanged, that is, the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a remains unchanged; for example, the intrusion depth of the intrusion member 22 on the water supply chamber 10a can be reduced synchronously to reduce the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a, thereby raising the water level in the water supply chamber 10a more quickly.
[0065] In one embodiment, the water level control module further includes a sealing member located at the connection between the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a. The sealing member is opened or closed by the intrusion member 22. Specifically, the sealing member is normally closed by default, that is, it blocks the connection between the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a by default, thus separating the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a. When the humidification device enters the humidification mode, the sealing member is opened by the intrusion member 22, allowing water in the water storage chamber 10b to flow into the water supply chamber 10a and raise the water level in the water supply chamber 10a. Of course, in other embodiments, a solenoid valve can also be provided at the connection between the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a. The solenoid valve can operate independently without the aid of the intrusion member 22 to open or close the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a.
[0066] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 5In one embodiment, the sealing element includes at least one check valve 23, which restricts the flow of water from the storage chamber 10b to the supply chamber 10a. The intrusion element 22 pushes against the valve core of the check valve 23 to open the check valve 23 and allow water to flow from the storage chamber 10b to the supply chamber 10a. That is, the structural characteristics of the check valve 23 itself ensure that water can only flow from the supply chamber 10a to the storage chamber 10b in a first direction, and restricts the flow of water from the storage chamber 10b to the supply chamber 10a in a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are set in opposite directions. In this way, the problem of water in the storage chamber 10b automatically opening the check valve 23 and flowing into the supply chamber 10a under the action of pressure difference can be avoided. Thus, by controlling the pushing action of the intrusion element 22 against the valve core of the check valve 23, the water replenishment action of the storage chamber 10b to the supply chamber 10a can be accurately realized. Of course, in other embodiments, the sealing member can also be configured as a cover plate that is rotatably disposed on the outlet hole of the water storage chamber 10b, the rotation axis of the cover plate is parallel to the axis of the outlet hole, and the rotation axis of the cover plate is disposed on the edge of the outlet hole. The end of the intrusion member 22 that is rotatably disposed on the water supply chamber 10a and is away from its rotation axis can push against the cover plate so that the cover plate partially or completely covers the outlet hole of the water storage chamber 10b.
[0067] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 In one embodiment, the water tank module 10 includes a detachably connected water tank 11 and a pipe connector 12. A water storage chamber 10b is located in the water tank 11, and a water supply chamber 10a is located in the pipe connector 12. Two one-way valves 23 are provided, one in the water tank 11 and the other in the pipe connector 12, with their valve cores capable of pushing against each other. Thus, the detachable water tank 11 allows users to easily add water to it. Furthermore, by providing a one-way valve 23 on both the water tank 11 and the pipe connector 12, leakage between the water tank 11 and the pipe connector 12 during installation or removal can be prevented. Specifically, when the humidifier enters the humidification mode, the intrusion member 22 moves and directly pushes against the valve core of the one-way valve 23 located on the pipe joint 12. Then, the valve core of the one-way valve 23 pushes against the valve core of the one-way valve 23 located on the water tank 11, thereby opening both one-way valves 23 and allowing water in the water storage chamber 10b to flow into the water supply chamber 10a. In this way, a single pushing action of the intrusion member 22 can drive both one-way valves 23 to open, resulting in a simple structure that is easy to implement.
[0068] Of course, in some embodiments, the water tank 11 and the pipe connector 12 can also be configured as non-removable structures. For example, the water tank 11 and the pipe connector 12 can be integrally formed, or the water tank 11 and the pipe connector 12 can be separately configured and welded together as a whole. In other embodiments, only one-way valve 23 can be provided at the pipe connector 12. The water tank 11 is provided with a tank outlet 111 and a solenoid valve provided at the tank outlet 111. The solenoid valve is connected to the one-way valve 23 and electrically connected to the drive component 21. After the humidification device enters the humidification mode, the drive component 21 drives the intrusion component 22 to push against the valve core of the one-way valve 23, and the solenoid valve simultaneously opens the tank outlet 111. In this way, the water in the water tank 11 can flow into the pipe connector 12 through the solenoid valve and the one-way valve 23.
[0069] In one embodiment, the water tank 11 has a tank outlet 111 communicating with the water storage chamber 10b, and the pipe connector 12 has a pipe inlet 121 communicating with the water supply chamber 10a. The tank outlet 111 includes a connected internal pipe section 113 and an external pipe section 114. The external pipe section 114 protrudes from the outer side of the water tank 11, and the outer peripheral wall of the pipe inlet 121 is inserted into the external pipe section 114. A one-way valve 23 is inserted into the internal pipe section 113, and another one-way valve 23 is inserted into the pipe inlet 121. In this way, the water tank 11 can be quickly installed and disassembled by the interlocking of the external pipe section 114 and the pipe inlet 121. The structure is simple and easy to implement, and it is also convenient for users to disassemble and install the water tank 11 themselves. Of course, in some embodiments, the outer peripheral wall of the external pipe section 114 may also be inserted into the pipe inlet 121. In other embodiments, the internal pipe section 113 may be omitted. The inner end of the external pipe section 114 is inserted into a one-way valve 23, and another one-way valve 23 is inserted into the pipe inlet 121. The outer peripheral wall of the pipe inlet 121 is inserted into the external pipe section 114. Of course, in other embodiments, the tank outlet 111 and the pipe inlet 121 may be detachably connected by snap-fit or screw connection.
[0070] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, sealing rings 13 are provided between the outer peripheral surface of the water inlet 121 and the inner wall surface of the external pipe section 114, between the outer peripheral surface of the one-way valve 23 and the inner wall surface of the water inlet 121, and between the outer peripheral surface of the one-way valve 23 and the inner wall surface of the internal pipe section 113, to improve the sealing performance of the humidification device at the connection between the water tank 11 and the pipe joint 12. Of course, in other embodiments, sealing rings 13 may not be provided.
[0071] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 7In one embodiment, the water tank 11 includes an intersecting and interconnected first tank section 11a and a second tank section 11b. The first tank section 11a is located at the upper end of the second tank section 11b, the lower end of the second tank section 11b is provided with a tank outlet 111, and the upper end of the first tank section 11a is provided with a tank inlet 112. Thus, when the same volume of water is added to the water tank 11, the second tank section 11b can maintain a higher water level for a longer period of time, thereby giving the water surface in the second tank section 11b a higher pressure head relative to the tank outlet 111, so that the water in the water tank 11 can more easily flow into the pipe connector 12. Furthermore, since the second tank section 11b is connected to the water supply chamber 10a in humidification mode, the water level in the water supply chamber 10a can rise to the same level as the water level in the second tank section 11b. Therefore, when the second tank section 11b has a higher water level, the water supply chamber 10a can also have a higher water level, which is beneficial for the water guide 32 to quickly immerse in the water and can increase the immersion depth of the water guide 32 below the water surface. Of course, in other embodiments, the water tank 11 can also be a hollow cuboid structure, with a tank inlet 112 at the top and a tank outlet 111 at the bottom.
[0072] In one embodiment, the first housing portion 11a has a mounting boss 115 protruding at the end away from the second housing portion 11b. The mounting boss 115 is disposed opposite to the second housing portion 11b and is used for the rebounder 46 to push against it. Specifically, please refer to... Figure 10 , Figure 13 and Figure 15When the humidifier is used in an air conditioner, a channel 45 is installed on the housing 40 of the air conditioner. The installation channel 45 penetrates the outer wall of the housing 40 and forms a channel opening 451. A rebound device 46 is fixed on the inner surface of the installation channel 45. When the second tank part 11b of the water tank 11 is inserted into the installation channel 45, the mounting boss 115 located on the lower side of the first tank part 11a will push against the rebound device 46 and cause the rebound device 46 to enter the energy storage state. At this time, the side walls of the first tank part 11a and the mounting boss 115 on the same side are exposed in the channel opening 451 and directly serve as part of the outer wall of the housing 40. In addition, the mounting boss 115 and the second tank part 11b are also supported on the lower inner wall of the installation channel 45 to maintain the stability of the water tank 11. When the water tank 11 is low on water and needs to be refilled, the user can press the side wall exposed in the channel opening 451 to make the mounting boss 115 push against the rebounder 46 again, causing the rebounder 46 to change from its self-energized state to its natural state. Under the pushing force of the rebounder 46, the mounting boss 115 is pushed out of the channel opening 451. In this way, the installation and removal of the water tank 11 in the installation channel 45 is realized through the cooperation between the mounting boss 115 and the rebounder 46. The structure is simple and easy to operate, and it can improve the neatness and aesthetics of the shell 40. Of course, in other embodiments, the mounting boss 115 may not be provided, or the mounting boss 115 may have a rotatable pull ring on the side away from the second tank part 11b. The pull ring can be exposed in the channel opening 451 of the shell 40 and used for pulling.
[0073] In one embodiment, the mounting boss 115 has a locking protrusion 116 protruding towards the second housing portion 11b, and the rebounder 46 is configured as a self-locking rebounder 46, such as a beetle rebounder 46, and the locking protrusion 116 can be locked into the self-locking rebounder 46. Thus, the self-locking rebounder 46 can also prevent the water tank 11 from accidentally slipping out of the installation channel 45 by locking the locking protrusion 116, thereby improving the installation reliability of the water tank 11. Specifically, optionally, the locking protrusion 116 is located at the end of the mounting boss 115 away from the first housing portion 11a, and extends beyond the lower side of the second housing portion 11b in a downward direction. That is, the mating structure of the locking protrusion 116 and the rebounder 46 avoids the second housing portion 11b, so as to avoid the second housing portion 11b being obstructed by the rebounder 46 during insertion into the installation channel 45. Of course, in other embodiments, the rebounder 46 may not have a self-locking function.
[0074] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 7In one embodiment, the inner end of the installation channel 45 is provided with a guide structure (not shown in the figure), and the upper side of the first box part 11a is provided with a guide rib 117 corresponding to the guide structure. The guide rib 117 and the guide structure cooperate with each other to realize the alignment of the water inlet 121 and the external pipe section 114, thereby facilitating the user to push the water tank 11 into the installation channel 45 and align the pipe joint 12, and realize the quick docking and installation of the water tank 11 and the pipe joint 12.
[0075] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 9 In one embodiment, the water supply chamber 10a includes an intersecting main pipe section 12a and a secondary pipe section 12b. The water inlet 32 is disposed in the secondary pipe section 12b. The first end of the main pipe section 12a is connected to the water storage chamber 10b, and the second end is provided with a sliding hole 122. The intrusion member 22 includes a sliding part 221 and a push rod part 222 connected to each other. The sliding part 221 is driven to be connected to the driving member 21 and slidably disposed in the sliding hole 122. The free end of the push rod part 222 is used to push the valve core of the one-way valve 23. Specifically, when the sliding part 221 slides toward the first end of the main pipe section 12a, the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a gradually decreases. Then, the free end of the push rod part 222 pushes against the valve core of the one-way valve 23 to connect the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a. The water in the water storage chamber 10b flows into the water supply chamber 10a after passing through the two one-way valves 23, thereby raising the water level in the water supply chamber 10a and allowing the first end of the water inlet 32 to be immersed in the water.
[0076] Similarly, when the sliding part 221 slides away from the first end of the main pipe section 12a, the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a will gradually increase, and the free end of the push rod part 222 will gradually move away from the water storage chamber 10b until the push rod part 222 releases the pushing force on the valve core of the one-way valve 23. At this time, the one-way valve 23 is closed, that is, the water storage chamber 10b and the water supply chamber 10a are separated by the one-way valve 23, so that the water supply chamber 10a can no longer be replenished with water from the water storage chamber 10b. At this time, even if the sliding part 221 stops sliding, the water level in the water supply chamber 10a will gradually decrease as the humidifier 31 further consumes water, until the water inlet 32 is removed from the water surface. Furthermore, the sliding part 221 continues to slide away from the first end of the main pipe section 12a. At this time, the push rod part 222 disengages from and gradually moves away from the valve core of the one-way valve 23, thereby further increasing the effective volume of the water supply chamber 10a, which allows the water level in the water supply chamber 10a to drop faster until the first end of the water inlet 32 leaves the water surface.
[0077] Optionally in this embodiment, a sealing ring 13 is also provided between the outer peripheral surface of the sliding part 221 and the inner wall surface of the sliding hole 122 to improve the airtightness of the connection between the intrusion member 22 and the water supply chamber 10a.
[0078] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 In one embodiment, the drive member 21 has a rocker arm 211 on its rotating shaft. The rocker arm 211 revolves around the axis of the rotating shaft, and the axis of the rotating shaft intersects the sliding direction of the sliding part 221. The intruding member 22 also includes a connecting part 223 disposed on the sliding part 221. The rocker arm 211 is slidably disposed on the connecting part 223 to push the sliding part 221 to slide. In this way, through the cooperation of the rocker arm 211 and the connecting part 223, the torque of the rotating shaft is converted into a pushing and pulling force on the sliding part 221, and the sliding part 221 is made to slide telescopically within the sliding hole 122. The structure is simple and easy to implement. Specifically, the drive member 21 can be configured as any one of a motor, a pneumatic motor, or a hydraulic motor. Please refer to Figure 15 In an embodiment where the water tank 11 of the humidifier is movably inserted into the mounting channel 45 on the air conditioner housing 40, optionally, the inner end of the mounting channel 45 is provided with four threaded holes 452, and the drive member 21 is fastened to the four threaded holes 452 by screws. Of course, in other embodiments, the drive member 21 may also be configured as a linear motor, with the push-pull rod of the linear motor connected to the sliding part 221.
[0079] In one embodiment, the connecting portion 223 is provided with an elongated hole 224, the extending direction of which intersects the sliding direction of the sliding portion 221. The rocker arm 211 includes a shaft sleeve 212 fitted with a rotating shaft and a sliding post 213 provided on the side of the shaft sleeve 212 and extending along the axial direction of the rotating shaft. The sliding post 213 is inserted into the elongated hole 224. This facilitates the installation and disassembly of the rocker arm 211 and the connecting portion 223. Optionally in this embodiment, the sliding column 213 has a limiting ring protrusion 214 on the outer peripheral surface of the end away from the rocker arm 211, and the connecting part 223 also has a mounting through hole 225 communicating with the elongated hole 224. The diameter of the mounting through hole 225 is larger than the width of the elongated hole 224. The limiting ring protrusion 214 can pass through the mounting through hole 225 and slide against the edge of the hole 224 away from the rocker arm 211 on the side closer to the rocker arm 211, thereby avoiding the problem of the sliding column 213 accidentally slipping out of the elongated hole 224 and causing functional failure. Of course, in some embodiments, the connecting part 223 may also have a sliding rod extending in the vertical direction, and the rocker arm 211 includes a shaft sleeve 212 sleeved with a rotating shaft and a sliding ring provided on the side of the shaft sleeve 212 with its axis direction parallel to the length direction of the sliding rod. The sliding ring is slidably sleeved on the sliding rod.
[0080] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 5To facilitate the installation of the water inlet 32 on the secondary pipe section 12b, in one embodiment, the humidification module 30 further includes a pipe plug 33 disposed on the secondary pipe section 12b, with the first end of the water inlet 32 passing through the pipe plug 33 and extending into the main pipe section 12a. Specifically, the water inlet 32 is first installed on the pipe plug 33, and then the pipe plug 33 is inserted into the secondary pipe section 12b, making the operation simple and convenient. Secondly, the pipe plug 33 also makes the installation of the water inlet 32 more reliable, and the depth of the first end of the water inlet 32 extending into the main pipe section 12a is more stable. Optionally, in this embodiment, the pipe plug 33 is made of an elastic material, such as rubber or silicone, and the water inlet 32 and the pipe plug 33, as well as the pipe plug 33 and the secondary pipe section 12b, can be detachably connected to facilitate maintenance and replacement of the water inlet 32 and the pipe plug 33, and to further improve the installation stability of the water inlet 32 and the pipe plug 33. Of course, in some embodiments, the first end of the water inlet 32 may only extend into the secondary pipe section 12b. In other embodiments, the water inlet 32 is directly installed on the secondary pipe section 12b, for example, by direct welding or bonding.
[0081] In one embodiment, the pipe plug 33 is provided with a vent hole (not shown in the attached drawings), which connects the inner and outer sides of the water supply chamber 10a. That is, the water supply chamber 10a is kept in contact with the outside air through the vent hole, and the internal air pressure of the water supply chamber 10a is kept consistent with the external atmospheric pressure to avoid the problem of the internal air pressure hindering the rise or fall of the water level. Of course, in some embodiments, the vent hole can also be set on the secondary pipe section 12b. In embodiments where the water inlet 32 is made of water-absorbing material, the vent hole may not be provided, and the porous structure of the water-absorbing material can directly connect the inner and outer sides of the water supply chamber 10a.
[0082] Please refer to Figures 10 to 15 The present invention also proposes an air conditioner including the aforementioned humidification device. The specific structure of the humidification device is as described in the above embodiments. Since the air conditioner adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.
[0083] Of course, the humidification device of this application can also be used in humidifiers or fresh air systems. This application does not specifically limit the application of the humidification device.
[0084] Please refer to Figures 11 to 14 ,in, Figure 14 for Figure 12The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the central top air outlet duct 42 and the humidifier along the front-to-back direction, with dashed arrows indicating airflow direction. In one embodiment, the air conditioner includes a housing 40 and a fan disposed on the housing 40. The housing 40 has a connected air outlet and an air outlet channel, and the humidifier element 31 of the humidifier is at least partially exposed in the air outlet channel. Thus, when the airflow in the air outlet channel rapidly flows through the humidifier element 31, it can quickly carry away the vapor or water mist generated by the humidifier element 31, thereby improving the humidification capacity and efficiency in humidification mode. Furthermore, the vapor or water mist generated by the humidifier element 31 can be directly blown into the indoor space along with the airflow, maximizing the utilization of this vapor or water mist and further enhancing the humidification capacity. Of course, in other embodiments, the housing 40 may also have an air inlet channel connected to the air inlet side of the air outlet channel, with the humidifier element 31 disposed on the air inlet channel.
[0085] Please refer to Figures 12 to 14 In one embodiment, the air outlet includes a top air outlet 41 located at the upper end of the housing 40, and the air outlet channel includes a top air outlet duct 42 communicating with the top air outlet 41. The side wall of the top air outlet duct 42 is provided with a mounting hole 421, and the humidifier 31 is disposed in the mounting hole 421. Specifically, the top air outlet 41 is located on the front side of the housing 40 and its opening is inclined upwards. The air outlet also includes a front air outlet 43 located on the front side of the housing 40, below the top air outlet 41. The air outlet channel also includes a front air outlet duct 44 communicating with the front air outlet 43. The front air outlet 43 can deliver airflow directly to the front of the housing 40, and the top air outlet 41 can deliver airflow obliquely upwards from the housing 40.
[0086] Thus, airflow can be delivered to areas of the indoor space farther from the air conditioner through the top air outlet duct 42 and the top air outlet 41, and this airflow carries a large amount of moisture generated by the humidifier 31, enabling a large circulation of humidifying airflow in the indoor space, thereby improving the uniformity of air humidity distribution in the indoor space. Of course, in other embodiments, the humidifier 31 may also be located on the front air outlet duct 44.
[0087] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 In an embodiment where the humidifier 31 includes a mounting frame 311 and an evaporator plate 312, optionally, the periphery of the mounting frame 311 is provided with a plurality of snap fasteners 314 at intervals, which can be engaged with the edge of the mounting hole 421. Of course, in other embodiments, the periphery of the mounting frame 311 may also be provided with a plurality of through holes at intervals, which are mounted on the edge of the mounting hole 421 by screws or rivets.
[0088] The above description is merely an optional embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the present invention's specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A humidification device, characterized in that, The humidification device includes: The water tank module is equipped with a water supply chamber; A water level control module is located in the water tank module and is capable of controlling the water level in the water supply chamber between high and low levels. A humidification module includes a humidification component and a water intake component. The first end of the water intake component is located in the water supply chamber, and the second end is located in the humidification component. When the water is at the high water level, the first end of the water intake component is below the water surface and guides the water to the humidification component. When the water is at the low water level, the first end of the water intake component is above the water surface. The water level control module includes a driving component and an intrusion component movably disposed in the water supply chamber. The intrusion component is driven by the driving component and can adjust the effective volume of the water supply chamber for storing water. The water tank module also includes a water storage chamber connected to the water supply chamber, and the water level control module can also control the connection between the water storage chamber and the water supply chamber so that water in the water storage chamber flows into the water supply chamber; The water level control module further includes a sealing member disposed at the connection between the water storage chamber and the water supply chamber. The sealing member is opened or closed by the intrusion member. The sealing member includes at least one one-way valve, which is used to restrict the flow of water from the water storage chamber to the water supply chamber. The intrusion member can push against the valve core of the one-way valve to open the one-way valve and allow water to flow from the water storage chamber to the water supply chamber. The water supply chamber includes an intersecting main pipe section and a secondary pipe section. The water inlet is located in the secondary pipe section. The first end of the main pipe section is connected to the water storage chamber, and the second end is provided with a sliding hole. The intrusion member includes a sliding part and a push rod part connected to each other. The sliding part is driven to be connected to the driving member and slidably located in the sliding hole. The free end of the push rod part is used to push the valve core of the one-way valve.
2. The humidification device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The water tank module includes a detachably connected water tank and a pipe joint. The water storage chamber is located in the water tank, and the water supply chamber is located in the pipe joint. There are two one-way valves, which are respectively located in the water tank and the pipe joint, and the valve cores can push against each other.
3. The humidification device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The water tank is provided with a tank outlet communicating with the water storage chamber, and the pipe joint is provided with a pipe inlet communicating with the water supply chamber. The tank outlet includes an internal pipe section and an external pipe section that are connected to each other. The external pipe section protrudes from the outer side of the water tank, and the outer peripheral wall of the pipe inlet is inserted into the external pipe section. The internal pipe section is provided with one of the one-way valves, and the pipe inlet is provided with another one-way valve.
4. The humidification device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The water tank includes a first tank section and a second tank section that intersect and are connected. The first tank section is located at the upper end of the second tank section, the lower end of the second tank section is provided with the tank outlet, and the upper end of the first tank section is provided with the tank inlet.
5. The humidification device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first box section has a mounting boss at one end away from the second box section. The mounting boss is positioned opposite to the second box section and is used for the rebounder to push against it.
6. The humidification device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The drive member has a rocker arm on its rotating shaft. The rocker arm revolves around the axis of the rotating shaft. The axis of the rotating shaft intersects with the sliding direction of the sliding part. The intrusion member also includes a connecting part provided on the sliding part. The rocker arm is slidably provided on the connecting part to push the sliding part to slide.
7. The humidification device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The connecting part is provided with an elongated hole, the extension direction of which intersects the sliding direction of the sliding part. The rocker arm includes a cylinder sleeved with the rotating shaft and a sliding column provided on the side of the cylinder and extending along the axis of the rotating shaft. The sliding column is inserted into the elongated hole.
8. The humidification device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The humidification module also includes a pipe plug located in the secondary pipe section, and the first end of the water inlet passes through the pipe plug and extends into the main pipe section.
9. The humidifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The water-guiding element is made of absorbent material, allowing water to flow from the first end of the water-guiding element to the second end; or, the water-guiding element is configured as a tubular structure, with the first end of the water-guiding element being higher than the second end of the water-guiding element, allowing water in the first end of the water-guiding element to flow to the second end of the water-guiding element using the siphon principle. And / or, the humidifier includes a mounting frame and an evaporation plate disposed on the mounting frame, and the second end of the water inlet is disposed on the mounting frame and connected to the evaporation plate; or, the humidifier is configured as an ultrasonic atomizer, and the second end of the water inlet is connected to the vibrating surface of the ultrasonic atomizer.
10. An air conditioner, characterized in that, Includes the humidification device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.
11. The air conditioner as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a housing and a fan disposed on the housing. The housing has a connected air outlet and an air outlet channel. The humidifying element of the humidifying device is at least partially exposed in the air outlet channel.
12. The air conditioner as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The air outlet includes a top air outlet located at the upper end of the housing, the air outlet channel includes a top air outlet duct communicating with the top air outlet, the side wall of the top air outlet duct is provided with a mounting hole, and the humidifier is located in the mounting hole.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Humidifying device
JP2009014254A