Air purifier

Abstract

Provided is an air cleaner including: a blower; and a circulator configured in a movable manner downstream of the blower, converting a flow direction of air discharged from the blower; the circulator including: a housing formed with a suction port on one side adjacent to a discharge port of the blower, and a discharge port on the other side; a circulation fan including a hub spaced apart from the suction port, a plurality of blades extending obliquely from the hub toward one side of the housing, and a shroud connecting distal ends of the plurality of blades, the circulation fan being configured inside the housing; a motor coupled to the hub for rotating the circulation fan; and a vane device including a front inner side wall facing the plurality of blades and extending toward the discharge port along an axis of rotation of the circulation fan, the vane device being configured between the discharge port of the circulator and the plurality of blades.

Description

[0001] This invention is a divisional application of the following patent application: Application No.: 202110784426.0, Application Date: July 12, 2021, Invention Title: Circulator and Air Purifier Including Circulator Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to circulators and air purifiers including circulators, and more particularly to circulators and air purifiers including circulators that improve the directionality of the exhaled airflow. Background Technology

[0003] Generally speaking, an air circulator is a device that circulates air to create a comfortable environment. The circulator uses a motor and a fan to generate airflow and expel the air in a specific direction.

[0004] An air circulator performs the function of delivering straight-line air to a distance to maintain air evenly throughout the room, and the ability to expel indoor air in a directional direction is one of the important factors for an air circulator.

[0005] The circulator can be used in conjunction with devices that expel airflow, such as air conditioners or air purifiers, to circulate cold or hot air into the room, or to circulate purified air into the room.

[0006] In addition, the circulator uses a rotating fan to draw in air through an intake flow path, and the drawn-in air is then expelled to the outside through the circulator. Relatedly, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1878629 discloses a circulator that uses a rotating fan to draw in and expel outside air.

[0007] However, under current technology, when the circulator draws in air through the inlet, the increased air pressure within the intake flow path causes some air to be unable to pass through the inlet. This leaked air will then be directional and leak outwards. Because this leaked air is dispersed instead of being expelled in the direction of the airflow, airflow energy loss may occur.

[0008] In addition, Korean Patent No. 10-2026194 discloses an air purifier that includes: a ventilation device that allows air to flow from the lower periphery to the upper side; and a flow conversion device (circulator) that draws in air expelled from the ventilation device and freely converts the flow.

[0009] However, there is a problem that some of the purified air expelled from the air supply device does not flow into the intake grille formed behind the flow conversion device but leaks outward, thus not being expelled in the direction of airflow.

[0010] Prior art literature

[0011] Patent documents

[0012] Korean Patent and Trademark Office No. 10-2026194 (Published on November 4, 2019)

[0013] Korean Patent and Trademark Office Publication No. 10-1878629 (Publication Date: July 16, 2018)

[0014] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0067342 (Publication Date: June 16, 2017)

[0015] Korean Patent and Trademark Office No. 10-1474181 (Published on December 17, 2014) Summary of the Invention

[0016] The purpose of this invention is to solve the aforementioned problems.

[0017] When the circulator is activated, some air, in its directional flow intended for intake into the circulator, may leak outwards instead of being drawn into the circulator's interior. Another object of the invention is to guide the air flowing outside the circulator that has not passed through it in the desired direction.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to minimize the loss of airflow through the circulator even if the intake flow area of ​​the circulator is narrowed.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide an air purifier including a circulator that draws in air expelled from a blower and discharges it in a directional direction.

[0020] During the process of purified air being drawn into the circulator and discharged from the air supply device, some of the purified air may leak outwards without being drawn into the interior of the circulator. Another object of the present invention is to guide the purified air flowing outside the circulator in the directional direction, thereby minimizing the loss of purified air flow discharged from the air supply device.

[0021] The purpose of this invention is not limited to the purposes mentioned above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand other purposes not mentioned from the following description.

[0022] To achieve the aforementioned objective, an circulator according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a housing forming a first inlet and a first outlet, and including an outer side wall; a circulating fan disposed within the housing, drawing in air through the first inlet and then discharging it towards the front of the housing through the first outlet; and a motor for rotating the circulating fan, wherein the outer side wall of the housing includes: a first outer side wall extending in a front-rear direction, forming the first outlet at the front.

[0023] To achieve the aforementioned objective, the circulator may further include: a second outer wall, with the first intake port formed at its rear, extending radially outward from the edge of the first intake port toward the first outer wall; the outer surface of the second outer wall includes: a first surface extending outward in an arcuate manner toward the first outer wall, forming a continuous surface with the outer surface of the first outer wall. Thus, air flowing outside the first intake port will have its flow gently redirected along the curvature of the surface formed by the first surface of the second outer wall and guided toward the outer surface of the first outer wall. The air is guided to flow along the outer surface of the first outer wall in the airflow direction, thereby minimizing the flow energy loss of air that does not flow into the first intake port.

[0024] Furthermore, even if the intake flow area of ​​the first intake port is reduced due to the shape of the second outer side wall, the circulating fan can be configured as an oblique flow fan that ejects air towards the front of the housing in order to minimize airflow loss.

[0025] The first outer sidewall has a cylindrical shape that extends in a band-like manner along the circumference with reference to the central axis, thereby guiding the air flowing along the outer side of the first outer sidewall in the direction in which the circulator wants to expel the air.

[0026] The outer surface of the first outer side wall is formed parallel to the axis of rotation of the diagonal flow fan in the front-back direction. This ensures a wider discharge flow path area for the circulator while increasing the forward direction of the air flowing along the outer surface of the first outer side wall.

[0027] The outer surfaces of the first and second outer walls are respectively enclosed by forming continuous surfaces in the circumferential direction, thereby preventing air from flowing into the interior of the circulator through the first and second outer walls and inducing a wall-attachment effect.

[0028] The first surface may be formed in an arc at the connection between the outer surface of the first outer wall and the outer surface of the second outer wall.

[0029] The outer surface of the second outer sidewall includes a second surface extending from the edge of the first intake port toward the first surface in such a manner that the slope of the longitudinal section remains constant, thereby minimizing the change in the flow path of the air flowing outside the first intake port and guiding it toward the first surface.

[0030] The first and second outer side walls can be joined together in a detachable manner. This allows the first outer side wall to be separated from the second outer side wall and facilitates easy management of the internal structure of the circulator.

[0031] The circulator may further include: a motor base disposed at the center of the rear of the second outer side wall, forming the first intake port between the base and the second outer side wall, disposed behind the motor and supporting the motor.

[0032] In another embodiment of the present invention, the circulator may further include an outer grille disposed at the first inlet, the outer grille comprising a plurality of partitions spaced apart from each other and forming a plurality of vent holes therebetween.

[0033] Furthermore, the second outer sidewall extends radially outward from the edge of the outer grille toward the first outer sidewall. The plurality of partitions include: a plurality of outer partitions disposed near the edge of the outer grille, with their ends inclined toward the outer surface of the second outer sidewall, thereby enabling air that has not passed through the outer grille 20 and flows outside the outer grille to flow along the end face of the outer grille and be guided toward the second outer sidewall.

[0034] The plurality of outer partitions are formed in an arcuate manner so that their ends form a continuous inclined surface with the outer surface of the second outer partition. Thus, when a virtual line passing through the outer surface of the second outer partition and the end face of the outer partition is extended, the virtual line forms a continuous, slow curve, thereby minimizing the flow resistance when air flows along the end face of the outer grid and is guided toward the second outer partition.

[0035] The plurality of partitions includes: a plurality of inner partitions disposed inside the outer partitions, the ends of which are located on a flat surface, thereby preventing the volume of the outer grid from unnecessarily increasing toward the rear of the circulator.

[0036] The oblique flow fan includes: a hub disposed in front of the motor and connected at its center to the output shaft of the motor; a shroud spaced behind the hub and having an air intake formed at its center; and a plurality of blades disposed between the hub and the shroud, thereby minimizing airflow loss and circulating airflow even when the intake flow area and / or exhaust flow area are reduced.

[0037] The hub and the shield can extend radially outward in a forward direction, thus facing the second outer side wall. This maximizes the area between the hub and the shield while guiding air flowing on the outer side of the second outer side wall towards the outer side of the first outer side wall, thereby maximizing the amount of airflow between them.

[0038] The blades extend forward at an angle from the shroud to the hub, thereby maximizing the area of ​​air flowing through the blades in a forward-angled direction and in contact with the blades.

[0039] The diameter of the first inlet can be larger than the diameter formed by the inner circumference of the shield and smaller than the diameter formed by the outer circumference of the shield.

[0040] The circulator of the present invention further includes a guide vane device disposed along the periphery of the first outer side wall between the first outer side wall and the diagonal flow fan, which guides the exhaust of air toward the front of the housing, thereby directing the air exhausted by the diagonal flow fan in a direction inclined toward the front of the housing toward the front of the housing.

[0041] An air purifier according to one embodiment of the present invention may include the circulator.

[0042] Another embodiment of the air purifier of the present invention further includes an air supply device, which includes an air supply fan that generates airflow and a second outlet for discharging air that has passed through the air supply fan. The circulator is movably disposed on one side of the air supply device. A second outer side wall guides the air discharged from the second outlet and flowing outside the first intake to flow forward along the outer side of the first outer side wall. This prevents the problem of reduced airflow due to leakage of purified air discharged from the air supply device to the outside of the first intake and maximizes the amount of purified air flowing in the directional direction.

[0043] The diameter of the first intake port is smaller than the diameter of the second exhaust port, so that at least a portion of the second outer side wall faces the second exhaust port, thereby allowing a portion of the purified air discharged from the second exhaust port to be drawn into the circulator through the first intake port and discharged, while the purified air that is not drawn into the first intake port and flows outside the first intake port is guided along the outer side of the second outer side wall towards the outer surface of the first outer side wall.

[0044] The second outlet can be formed circumferentially on the upper side of the air supply device, and the circulator is disposed on the upper side of the second outlet so that the second outer wall faces the second outlet. At this time, the second outer wall extending radially outward and the second outlet face each other circumferentially, and the air discharged upward from the second outlet can contact all surfaces of the second outer wall circumferentially.

[0045] When the circulator is in its first horizontal position, the first outer wall extends toward the air discharge direction of the second outlet. The second outer wall is spaced upward from the second outlet and faces it obliquely. Thus, the purified air discharged in one direction by the air supply device is discharged radially outward along the oblique surface formed by the second outer wall, thereby enabling the purified air to be discharged uniformly in a 360-degree direction.

[0046] When the circulator is in its second vertical position, the first outer wall extends in the direction of airflow, and at least a portion of the second outer wall is gradually extended in the direction in which air is discharged from the first outer wall to the second outlet. Thus, the circulator can draw in purified air discharged in one direction from the air supply device and guide it in the direction of airflow. Purified air not drawn in through the first intake of the circulator is guided along the inclined surface formed by the second outer wall to the outer surface of the first outer wall, and then guided in the direction of airflow.

[0047] The specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0048] The circulator and air purifier including the circulator according to the present invention have one or more of the following effects.

[0049] First, by means of the shape of the outer wall of the housing and the outer grille, air that has not passed through the circulator and is flowing outside the circulator can be guided in the directional direction.

[0050] Secondly, by using a diagonal-flow fan, the loss of airflow through the circulator can be minimized regardless of the shape of the outer wall.

[0051] Third, by providing an air purifier that has a circulator that draws in air expelled from the air supply device of the present invention and expels it in a directional direction, the purified air can be induced in a directional direction.

[0052] Fourth, by adjusting the shape and arrangement of the outer wall of the circulator, the air discharged from the air supply device and flowing outside the circulator can be guided in the desired direction.

[0053] The effects of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the description in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a circulator 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 2 Looking from the front Figure 1 Top view of the circulator 100.

[0056] Figure 3 Observation from the rear Figure 1 Top view of the circulator 100.

[0057] Figure 4 and Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An exploded 3D view of the circulator 100.

[0058] Figure 6 It is Figure 1 The looper 100 along Figure 3 A longitudinal sectional view taken along the I-I' direction and observed.

[0059] Figure 7 It is Figure 6 An enlarged longitudinal sectional view of part A is shown.

[0060] Figure 8 Show Figure 6 The airflow is caused by the rotation of the circulating fan 30 in the circulator 100.

[0061] Figure 9 It includes Figure 1 A 3D view of an air purifier 1 with a circulator 100.

[0062] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A longitudinal sectional view of the air purifier 1.

[0063] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 10 A longitudinal sectional view of the rotating guide device 290 disposed on the upper side of the circulator 100 and the air supply device 200 in the air purifier 1. The longitudinal sectional view is from... Figure 3 The circulator 100 is cut open along the II-II' direction and observed.

[0064] Figure 12 It is shown Figure 9 A longitudinal sectional view of the airflow situation when the circulator 100 of the air purifier 1 is in the first position.

[0065] Figure 13 It is shown Figure 9 A longitudinal sectional view of the airflow situation when the circulator 100 of the air purifier 1 is in the second position.

[0066] Figure 14 (a) to Figure 16(b) is a graph showing the results of airflow simulations of an air purifier 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention and an air purifier according to another embodiment of the present invention using computational fluid dynamics (CFD).

[0067] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0068] 1: Air purifier; 100: Circulator; 10: Housing; 11: First outer side wall; 12: Second outer side wall; 12a: First surface; 12b: Second surface; 20: Outer grille; 21: Outer partition; 22: Inner partition; 30: Circulating fan; 40: Motor; 50: Motor housing; 60: Fan cover; 70: Guide vane device; 80: Front panel; S1: First intake port; S3: First exhaust port; 200: Upper air supply device, air supply device; 205: Second exhaust port Detailed Implementation

[0069] References and appendices Figure 1 The advantages, features, and methods of implementing the invention will become clear from the detailed embodiments described below. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but can be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided only to more completely disclose the invention and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, which is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals denote the same structural elements.

[0070] The terms "below," "under," "lower part," "upper part," and "upper part," as spatially relative terms, are used, as shown in the figures, to easily describe the relationship between one structural element and another. These spatially relative terms should be understood to include, in addition to the directions shown in the figures, terms indicating the different orientations of the structural elements during use or operation. For example, in the case of overturning the structural element shown in the figures, a structural element described as "below" or "under" another structural element can be placed "upper" of another structural element. Therefore, the illustrative term "below" can include both downward and upward directions. Structural elements can also be oriented in other directions; therefore, spatially relative terms can be understood based on orientation.

[0071] The terminology used in this specification is for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, the singular form includes the plural form unless specifically mentioned in the text. The use of "comprising" and / or "consisting of" in this specification does not exclude the presence or addition of more than one other structural element, step, and / or action besides those mentioned.

[0072] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) are to be used in a meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Furthermore, unless specifically defined, terms as defined in commonly used dictionaries should not be interpreted rationally or excessively.

[0073] In the accompanying drawings, the thickness or size of each structural element has been exaggerated, omitted, or shown approximated for ease of explanation and clarity. Furthermore, the size and area of ​​each structural element do not fully reflect its actual size or area.

[0074] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0075] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the circulator 100 and an air purifier 1 including the circulator 100 will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0076] [Looper 100]

[0077] The following defines the direction for looper 100.

[0078] by Figures 1 to 10 Using the Cartesian coordinate system shown as a reference, the z-axis direction can be defined as the forward / backward direction of the circulator 100. In this case, the direction of the +z-axis can be defined as forward, and the direction of the -z-axis as backward. Air flows from the -z direction through the circulator 100 towards the +z-axis direction. Using the z-axis as a reference, the side where air is drawn into the circulator 100 is called the rear, and the side where air is expelled from the circulator 100 is called the front.

[0079] Furthermore, the rotating shafts of the circulating fan 30 and motor 40 of the circulator 100 are formed parallel to the z-axis, and the direction of the z-axis can be defined as the axial direction of the circulator 100. The direction of rotation around this axial direction can be defined as the circumferential direction. The rotating shafts of the circulating fan 30 and motor 40 can be referred to as the central axis of the circulator 100.

[0080] Furthermore, the direction formed by the xy plane perpendicular to the z-axis can be defined as the radial direction of the circulator 100. That is, the radial direction can be understood as the direction perpendicular to the axial direction. Moreover, within the radial direction, the direction extending perpendicularly outward from the z-axis can be defined as the radial outer direction, and the direction extending perpendicularly inward from the outer direction toward the center of the z-axis can be defined as the radial inner direction.

[0081] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The housing 10 may include outer walls 11 and 12 forming an outer peripheral surface in the circumferential direction of the circulator 100. The housing 10 may have an opening at its rear to form a first intake port S1 and an opening at its front to form a first discharge port S3. The housing 10 accommodates the internal structures of the circulator 100, such as the circulating fan 30 and the motor 40, and may serve as a reference for distinguishing the inner and outer sides of the circulator 100.

[0082] A front panel 80 displaying operational information can be disposed at the center of the front of the housing 10, thereby forming a first discharge port S3 between the housing 10 and the front panel 80. The first discharge port S3 can be formed circumferentially between the front panel 80 and the front of the housing 10. Furthermore, a guide vane device 70 can be disposed behind the first discharge port S3, and an outer grille 20 can be disposed at the first intake port S1. Details will be described later.

[0083] Reference Figures 4 to 6 The housing 10 may be open in the front-to-back direction, thereby forming a flow path for air to flow from the first intake port S1 to the first discharge port S3. The outer side walls 11 and 12 of the housing 10 may be divided into a first outer side wall 11 and a second outer side wall 12 disposed behind the first outer side wall 11. The first outer side wall 11 and the second outer side wall 12 may be integrally formed or combined with each other.

[0084] The first outer side wall 11 can extend in the front-rear direction. The first outer side wall 11 can be open at its front to form a first outlet S3. The first outer side wall 11 can have a cylindrical shape formed by extending in a strip shape along the circumference with reference to the central axis. The first outer side wall 11 can be formed by extending forward from the second outer side wall 12. The first outer side wall 11 can be joined to the outermost periphery of the second outer side wall 12.

[0085] The second outer side wall 12 can be open at its rear to form a first intake port S1. The second outer side wall 12 can extend radially outward from the edge of the first intake port S1 toward the first outer side wall 11. The second outer side wall 12 can extend obliquely forward to form a periphery. That is, the second outer side wall 12 can have a bowl shape with its diameter decreasing towards the rear and its rear opening.

[0086] At this time, the second outer wall 12 extends radially outward from the edge of the first intake S1 toward the first outer wall 11, and through the wall attachment effect, it can guide the air flowing outside the first intake S1 to flow forward along the outer surface of the first outer wall 11 (see reference). Figure 8 (F2). For details, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 6 to 8 This will be discussed later.

[0087] An outer grille 20 forming an air intake channel can be disposed at a first intake port S1 formed on a second outer side wall 12. A connecting groove 16a (see reference) for guiding the arrangement of the outer grille 20 can be formed behind the second outer side wall 12. Figure 7 ).

[0088] The outer grille 20 may include a plurality of partitions 21, 22 (see reference) Figure 7 The outer grille 20 may form a plurality of vents between the partitions 21 and 22. As an example, the outer grille 20 has linear vents arranged sequentially on a circular plate.

[0089] Additionally, a filter component 23 is provided at the first intake port S1 to remove dust from the air drawn in through the first intake port S1. In this case, the filter component 23 can be positioned between or in front of a plurality of partitions 21, 22. In this case, the plurality of partitions 21, 22 of the outer grille 20 can function as a frame supporting the filter component 23.

[0090] Additionally, a circulating fan 30 may be disposed within the housing 10. The circulating fan 30 may be disposed in front of the outer grille 20. The circulating fan 30 may be coupled to a motor 40 for rotating the circulating fan. The circulating fan 30 generates airflow by rotating. The circulating fan 30 draws air into the housing 10 through the outer grille 20 and then discharges it towards the front of the housing 10 through the first discharge port S3. The circulating fan 30 may be an axial flow fan or a diagonal flow fan.

[0091] The circulating fan 30 can be a diagonal-flow fan that ejects air drawn in through the first intake port S1 in a direction inclined forward towards the housing 10. The diagonal-flow fan 30 may include a shaft connection 31, a hub 32, a shroud 33, and blades 34. Diagonal-flow fans have the advantage of generating a relatively high airflow rate compared to axial-flow fans within a limited flow path area.

[0092] The shaft connection portion 31 can be located between the motor cover 52 and the panel base 63, which will be described later. The shaft connection portion 31 is a hollow portion with an opening in the front-rear direction, which can be connected to the output shaft 41 of the motor 40 and rotate together with the output shaft.

[0093] Hub 32 is disposed in front of motor 40 and may have a shaft engagement portion 31 for connecting output shaft 41 of motor 40 formed at its center. Hub 32 is disposed in front of motor and may include at least one of inner hub 32a having the shaft engagement portion 31 formed therein and outer hub 32b extending radially outward from inner hub 32a.

[0094] The inner hub 32a can be formed to protrude forward, thereby creating a space at the rear for arranging the motor 40 and the motor cover 52. The inner hub 32a can be formed in such a way that it surrounds a portion of the motor 40 and the motor cover 52. The inner hub 32a can have a bowl shape that protrudes forward.

[0095] The outer hub 32b may extend radially outward and forward at an angle. The front end of the blade 34 may be coupled to the rear of the outer hub 32b.

[0096] Furthermore, the shield 33 is spaced rearward from the hub 32, and a circular intake port S2 for air intake can be formed in the center of the shield 33. The shield 33 can be formed in a ring shape to surround at least a portion of the motor 40. In this case, the diameter w2' of the intake port S2 formed at the inner circumferential end of the shield 33 can be equal to or smaller than the diameter w1 of the first intake port S1.

[0097] The shroud 33 can be arranged radially outward from the rear of the hub 32. In this case, the front surface of the shroud 33 can be formed at an angle forward, thus facing the rear surface of the outer hub 32b. Therefore, the outer hub 32b and the shroud 33 can guide the air drawn in through the intake port S2 to flow in an angle forward. The outer hub 32b and the shroud 33 can extend radially outward gradually in the forward direction, thus facing the second outer wall 12. That is, when the second outer wall 12 is formed at an angle, the outer hub 32b and the shroud 33 can be angled to face the second outer wall 12. This allows air flowing on the outer surface of the second outer wall 12 to be guided towards the outer surface of the first outer wall 11 while maximizing the area between the outer hub 32b and the shroud 33, thereby maximizing the amount of airflow between them.

[0098] A plurality of blades 34 may be disposed between the hub 32 and the shroud 33, thereby connecting the hub and the shroud. The blades 34 extend obliquely forward from the front of the shroud 33 toward the rear of the outer hub 32b. That is, corresponding to the airflow direction, the blades 34 extend obliquely forward relative to the axial direction, the air flowing out through the blades 34 flows in an obliquely forward direction, and the contact area with the blades 34 is maximized.

[0099] Furthermore, the smaller the diameter w1 of the first intake port S1, the smaller the intake flow path area, and the larger the area of ​​the second outer wall 12 can be. In this case, in the case of the diagonal flow fan 30, air is drawn in from the first intake port S1 and discharged in a forward-tilted direction. Compared with the case of the axial flow fan, even if the intake flow path area is reduced, the reduction in air volume can be minimized and the airflow can be circulated.

[0100] That is, when using the diagonal-flow fan 30, even if the diameter w1 of the first intake S1 is made smaller than the diameter w2 of the diagonal-flow fan 30, the loss of airflow drawn into the circulator 100 through the first intake S1 and discharged can be minimized while ensuring the area of ​​the second outer wall 12 that induces the wall adhesion effect. Therefore, the diameter w1 formed by the edge of the first intake S1 can be equal to or greater than the diameter w2' formed by the inner peripheral end of the shield 33, and smaller than the diameter w2 formed by the outer peripheral end of the shield 33. In addition, the circulator 100 may also include a motor base 15. The motor base 15 can be disposed in front of the outer grille 20. The motor base 15 can be disposed at the center behind the second outer wall 12. The motor base 15 can be disposed spaced apart from the innermost peripheral edge of the second outer wall 12.

[0101] A first intake port S1 may be formed between the motor base 15 and the second outer side wall 12. A support rod 16 may extend radially inward from one side of the second outer side wall 12 toward the motor base 15. The motor base 15 may be positioned behind the motor 40 and support the motor.

[0102] The connecting plate 18 extends radially inward from one side of the second outer side wall 12 and connects to the motor base 15. A second rack 295 (see reference 15) for guiding a second rotational guide mechanism for rotation in the second direction (described later) can be coupled behind the connecting plate 18. Figure 11 The connecting plate 18 may be formed with wire holes 17 for passing through wires connected to the motor 340 or the display 390 (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0103] Additionally, the circulator 100 may also include a motor housing 50. The motor housing 50 may include at least one of a rear inner sidewall 51, a motor cover 52, and an inner grille 53.

[0104] The rear inner wall 51 can be positioned in front of the outer grille 20. The rear inner wall 51 has openings at the front and rear, and can form part of the inner peripheral surface of the circumferential device 100 in the circumferential direction.

[0105] The rear inner wall 51 extends radially outward from the rear to the front. The rear inner wall 51 can be formed obliquely facing the cover 33. That is, the rear inner wall 51 can have a smaller diameter towards the rear and an open bowl shape at the rear.

[0106] Furthermore, the rear inner wall 51 can be disposed inside the second outer wall 12. The outer end of the front aspect of the rear inner wall 51, which forms in the circumferential direction, bends rearward so as to hook into a groove (not shown) formed on the inner periphery of the second outer wall 12.

[0107] Furthermore, the motor housing 50 may include an inner grille 53 forming a passage for intake air at the rear. The inner grille 53 may be formed at the rear of the open rear inner wall 51. The motor cover 52 may be disposed at the inner center of the rear inner wall 51. The inner grille 53 may be formed between the rear inner wall 51 and the motor cover 52.

[0108] The motor cover 52 may have a recessed groove formed at the front corresponding to the shape of the motor 40, thereby accommodating the motor 40. The motor cover 52 may be formed in a manner that surrounds the motor. The motor 40 may be disposed between the motor base 15 and the motor cover 52, and the motor cover 52 may be disposed between the motor 40 and the circulating fan 30. Furthermore, a space may be formed between the rear inner sidewall 51 and the motor cover 52, thereby accommodating a portion of the circulating fan 30.

[0109] The motor cover 52 has a hole formed at the center of its front surface, through which the output shaft 41 of the motor 40 passes. The output shaft 41 can pass through the hole formed in the front surface of the motor cover 52 and engage with the shaft coupling portion 31 formed on the circulating fan 30.

[0110] Additionally, the circulator 100 may also include a fan cover 60 disposed in front of the circulating fan 30. The fan cover 60 may include a corner support 61, a bridge 62, and a panel base 63.

[0111] The corner support 61 can be disposed in front of the rear inner sidewall 51. The corner support 61 can have a ring shape extending circumferentially. The rear inner sidewall 51 can form a boss or hook corresponding to the shape of the corner support 61, thereby accommodating the corner support.

[0112] Furthermore, a panel base 63 may be disposed in front of the corner support portion 61. The diameter of the panel base 63 may be smaller than that of the corner support portion 61. The panel base 63 may be located at the center of the first outer side wall 11. A front panel 80 may be mounted in front of the panel base 63. The front panel 80 and the panel base 63 may have corresponding disc shapes. A control unit (not shown) for displaying operating information to the front panel 80 and controlling the operation of the circulator 100 and the air purifier 1 (described later) may be disposed between the panel base 63 and the front panel 80. As the control unit (not shown), a PCB substrate may be used.

[0113] The bridge portion 62 can be disposed between the corner support portion 61 and the panel base 63 and connect them to each other. The bridge portion 62 can have a rod shape that extends slenderly from the inner peripheral surface of the corner support portion 61 toward the panel base 63 in a radially inward direction. The bridge portion 62 can be formed obliquely in the direction facing the blades 34 of the circulating fan 30. A plurality of bridge portions 62 can be arranged circumferentially on the corner support portion 61.

[0114] The circulating fan 30 can be disposed inside the fan cover 60. The panel base 63 of the fan cover 60 can cover the front of the hub 32 and the shaft connection 31 of the circulating fan 30. A channel for air passage can be formed between the plurality of bridge portions 62 disposed between the corner support portion 61 and the panel base 63.

[0115] Additionally, the circulator 100 may further include a guide vane device 70 disposed between the first outer sidewall 11 and the diagonal-flow fan 30, which guides the air obliquely discharged forward by the diagonal-flow fan axially toward the diagonal-flow fan and discharges it toward the front of the housing. The guide vane device 70 may include a front inner sidewall 71, guide vanes 72, and a blade joint 73.

[0116] The front inner sidewall 71 is disposed inside the first outer sidewall 11 and can form part of the inner peripheral surface of the circumferential device 100 in the circumferential direction. The front inner sidewall 71 can be combined with the corner support 61 in front of the corner support 61.

[0117] Furthermore, the front inner wall 71 extends from the corner support 61 to the front end of the first outer wall 11 in the front-rear direction. A first outlet S3 can be formed between the front inner wall 71 and the panel base 63. The front inner wall 71 extends radially outward from the corner support 61 in the forward direction. The front inner wall 71 can be formed in a curved manner facing forward, thereby minimizing flow energy loss and guiding air towards the first outlet S3.

[0118] The blade joint 73 can be formed into a ring shape extending circumferentially. The blade joint 73 can be disposed in the center on the front side of the front inner wall 71. The blade joint 73 can be joined to the outer peripheral surface of the panel base 63. In addition, a first discharge port S3 can be formed between the blade joint 73 and the front inner wall 71.

[0119] Guide vanes 72 can be disposed between the front inner wall 71 and the blade joint 73. A plurality of guide vanes 72 can be arranged obliquely along the outer periphery of the blade joint 73. Guide vanes 72 can be arranged radially from the blade joint 73 as the center by plates curved along a curved surface.

[0120] One side of the guide vane 72 can be connected to the outer peripheral surface of the blade joint 73, and the other side of the guide vane can be connected to the inner peripheral surface of the front inner wall 71. The guide vane 72 can be arranged radially inward in the forward direction. The guide vane 72 can be shaped to face the blade 54.

[0121] Because the guide vane 72 is angled, the air discharge area is increased, allowing more air to be discharged in front of the guide vane 72. Furthermore, because a cylindrical inner front wall 71 is provided on the outer side of the guide vane 72, the air discharged from the guide vane 72 can contact the inner peripheral surface of the inner front wall 71 and move straight forward, thereby improving the straightness of the discharged air and enabling the airflow to reach a greater distance.

[0122] Reference Figures 6 to 8 As described above, the outer side walls 11 and 12 of the housing 10 may include: a first outer side wall 11 having a first discharge port S3 formed at the front; and a second outer side wall 12 having a first suction port S1 formed at the rear. Furthermore, the first outer side wall 11 may be disposed in front of the second outer side wall 12 and extend in the front-rear direction, and the second outer side wall 12 may extend radially outward from the edge of the first suction port S1 toward the first outer side wall 11.

[0123] Additionally, when the circulating fan 30 rotates using the motor 40, air outside the circulator 100 (hereinafter, outside air) can be drawn in through the outer grille 20 disposed on the first intake port S13. Subsequently, the drawn-in air can pass through the interior of the circulator 100 and be discharged towards the front of the housing 10 through the first discharge port S3 formed in front of the first outer wall 11 (see reference). Figure 8 (F1). At this time, a portion of the outside air flowing toward the outer grille 20 as the circulating fan 30 rotates is not drawn into the interior of the circulator 100 through the outer grille 20, but leaks directionally toward the outside of the circulator 100, which may result in flow energy loss.

[0124] At this time, the second outer wall 12 extends radially outward from the edge of the first intake port S1 toward the first outer wall 11. Therefore, through the wall attachment effect, the air flowing outside the first intake port S1 can be guided to flow forward along the outer surface of the first outer wall 11 (see reference). Figure 8 (F2).

[0125] The aforementioned wall adhesion effect refers to the effect that when a fluid flowing in one direction comes into contact with a solid, the fluid does not flow in a straight line, but adheres to the surface of the solid and flows along the surface of the solid.

[0126] That is, the air leaking to the outside of the first intake port S1 can be guided along the outer surface of the second outer side wall 12 to the outer surface of the first outer side wall 11. Subsequently, the air can flow along the outer side of the first outer side wall 11 extending in the front-rear direction towards the airflow direction of the circulator 100 (see reference). Figure 8 (F2). The direction of airflow can indicate the direction in which the user wants to expel air through the circulator.

[0127] The first outer side wall 11 and the second outer side wall 12 are integrally joined, and the joined portion may not have an outwardly protruding portion, but rather a circumferentially continuous peripheral surface. By making the outer surface of the first outer side wall 11 and the outer surface of the second outer side wall 12 a continuous surface, the flow resistance of air guided along the outer surface of the second outer side wall 12 to the outer surface of the first outer side wall 11 can be minimized.

[0128] Furthermore, the first outer side wall 11 may have a cylindrical shape that extends in a band-like manner along the circumference with reference to the central axis. Thus, the first outer side wall 11 can guide the air flowing along the outer surface of the first outer side wall 11 in the direction in which the air is discharged from the circulator 100.

[0129] Furthermore, the outer surface of the first outer wall 11 can be formed parallel to the axis of rotation of the circulating fan 30 in the front-rear direction. In this case, the diameter w3 formed at the outer peripheral end of the first outer wall 11 can be equal to the diameter w3 formed at the outer peripheral end of the second outer wall 12. As a result, the discharge flow path area of ​​the circulator 100 can be ensured more widely, while increasing the straightness of the air flowing along the outer surface of the first outer wall 11 in the pointing direction.

[0130] At this point, the meaning of "parallel" should be understood as not referring to a strictly mathematical 180-degree angle between them, but also including a very slight radial inclination that is almost parallel. That is, the diameter of the front portion of the first outer wall 11 can decrease slightly from the rear to the front.

[0131] Furthermore, the second outer side wall 12 may be formed in such a way that it surrounds at least a portion of the shroud 33 of the circulating fan 30. And, the first outer side wall 11 disposed in front of the second outer side wall 12 may be formed in such a way that it surrounds at least a portion of the hub 32 of the circulating fan 30. That is, the circulating fan 30 is housed inside the housing 10 and may be disposed between the first outer side wall 11 and the second outer side wall 12 of the housing 10.

[0132] Furthermore, the outer surfaces of the first outer side wall 11 and the second outer side wall 12 can each form a continuous surface in the circumferential direction, thus being sealed without forming a gap. Therefore, as the air flowing outside the first intake port S1 is guided along the outer surface of the second outer side wall 12 to the outer surface of the first outer side wall 11, it is possible to prevent air from flowing into the interior of the circulator 100 through the first outer side wall 11 and the second outer side wall 12.

[0133] Additionally, the outer surface of the second outer side wall 12 may include a first surface 12a that extends radially outward toward the first outer side wall 11 disposed in front in an arcuate manner. The first surface 12a may extend from the edge of the first intake port S1 to the first outer side wall 11, or it may extend from the front of the second surface 12b described later to the first outer side wall 11.

[0134] The first surface 12a can be formed protruding outward from the housing 10, thereby forming a center of curvature radius in the inward direction of the housing 10. The first surface 12a can form a plurality of centers of curvature radius in the front-rear direction. For example, the curvature radius formed by the surface of the first surface 12a gradually increases towards the front and reaches its maximum at the connection point with the first outer side wall 11.

[0135] The first surface 12a can be connected to the rear of the first outer side wall 11. The first surface 12a can be formed in an arc at the connection between the outer surface of the first outer side wall 11 and the outer surface of the second outer side wall 12.

[0136] In this case, the air flowing outside the first intake S1 will flow along the curvature of the surface formed by the first surface 12a of the second outer wall 12, and minimize the flow resistance, thereby enabling the flow to be gently converted in the direction of airflow and guided to the first outer wall 11.

[0137] Additionally, the outer surface of the second outer wall 12 may include a second surface 12b extending from the edge of the first intake port S1 toward the first surface 12a in a manner that maintains a constant slope in the longitudinal section. In this case, the first surface 12a may be positioned between the second surface 12b and the outer surface of the first outer wall 11. The longitudinal section of the second surface 12b extends toward the first surface 12a in a nearly straight manner, minimizing changes in the flow path and guiding air flowing outside the first intake port S1 toward the first surface 12a.

[0138] Furthermore, the first outer side wall 11 and the second outer side wall 12 can be joined and disassembled. That is, since the first outer side wall 11 can be separated from the second outer side wall 12, the internal structure of the circulator 100 can be easily managed. For example, after separating the first outer side wall 11 from the second outer side wall 12, the guide vane device 70, the fan cover 60, the blower fan 30, and the motor housing 50 can be separated in sequence, and each structural component can be cleaned or replaced.

[0139] Additionally, the outer grille 20 may be configured at the first intake port S1 formed behind the second outer wall 12. The outer grille 20 may include a plurality of partitions 21, 22, which are spaced apart from each other and form a plurality of vent holes therebetween. In this case, the second outer wall 12 may extend radially outward from the edge of the outer grille 20 toward the first outer wall 11. Therefore, the diameter w3 formed at the outer peripheral end of the second outer wall 12 and / or the diameter w3 formed at the outer peripheral end of the first outer wall 11 may be larger than the diameter w1 formed at the periphery of the outer grille 20.

[0140] The plurality of partitions 21, 22 may include a plurality of outer partitions 21 disposed adjacent to the edge of the outer grille 20. The plurality of outer partitions 21 may be formed with their ends inclined toward the outer surface of the second outer wall, thereby allowing air flowing outside the outer grille 20 that is not drawn in through the outer grille 20 to flow along the end face of the outer grille 20 and be guided toward the second outer wall 12.

[0141] Furthermore, the plurality of outer partitions 21 can be formed in an arcuate manner, so that their ends form a continuous inclined surface with the outer surface of the second outer partition 12. In this case, when a virtual line is extended through the outer surface of the second outer partition 12 and the end surfaces of the outer partitions 21, the virtual line can form a continuous, gentle curve. This minimizes the flow resistance as air flows along the end surfaces of the outer grille 20 and is guided towards the second outer partition 12.

[0142] The outer partition 21 may include: a first outer partition 21a, forming the edge of the outer grille 20; and a second outer partition 21b, disposed further inward than the first outer partition 21a. The second outer partition 12 may extend from the first outer partition 21a forming the edge of the outer grille 20 toward the first outer partition 11. Furthermore, the outer surface formed at the end of the first outer partition 21a is formed in a curved manner, thereby forming a continuous inclined surface between the outer surface of the first outer partition 21a and the outer surface of the second outer partition 12.

[0143] Additionally, the first outer diaphragm 21a may have a connecting protrusion (not shown) protruding forward from the front, and the outer diaphragm 12 may have a connecting groove 16a recessed at the rear in a shape corresponding to the connecting protrusion. Thus, the outer grille 20 can insert the connecting protrusion formed on the first outer diaphragm 21a into the connecting groove 16a to connect to the rear of the second outer diaphragm 12.

[0144] Furthermore, the plurality of partitions 21, 22 may include a plurality of inner partitions 22 disposed inside the outer partition 21, with their ends located on a flat surface. In this case, the slope formed at the ends of each partition gradually decreases from the first outer partition 21a towards the second outer partition 21b, thus, when reaching the inner partition 22, the surfaces formed by the ends of the plurality of inner partitions 22 will be located on a flat surface. When a virtual line is extended through the outer surface of the second outer partition 12 and the end surfaces of the plurality of partitions 21, 22, the virtual line can form a continuous, gradual curve in the outer partition 21 and a straight line in the inner partition 22. This prevents the volume of the outer grille 20 from unnecessarily increasing behind the circulator 100.

[0145] [Air purifier 1 including circulator 100]

[0146] Reference Figure 9 The air purifier 1 of an embodiment of the present invention may include: air supply devices 200 and 300; and a circulator 100, which converts the air discharged from the air supply devices 200 and 300 to the airflow direction. The air supply devices 200 and 300 may include: an upper air supply device 200, which is disposed on the upper side of the air purifier 1 and discharges purified air; and a lower air supply device 300, which is disposed on the lower side of the upper air supply device 200 and discharges purified air.

[0147] The upper air supply device 200 includes a first outer shell 201 forming the exterior, and the lower air supply device 300 includes a second outer shell 301 forming the exterior. The first outer shell 201 and the second outer shell 301 can each be formed into a cylindrical shape. The diameter of the upper side of each of the first outer shell 201 and the second outer shell 301 can be smaller than the diameter of the lower side.

[0148] A second intake port 202 and a third intake port 302, consisting of a plurality of through holes for drawing in external air, are formed on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first housing 201 and the second housing 301, thereby enabling external air to flow into the interior of the air supply device 100 and 200 in a 360-degree direction.

[0149] A base 310, which is spaced downward from the lower air supply device 300, can be disposed on the lower side of the lower air supply device 300. A fourth intake port 303 can be formed in the space between the base 310 and the lower air supply device 300 to allow external air to flow into the lower air supply device 300.

[0150] A second outlet 205 for discharging filtered purified air can be formed on the upper side of the upper air supply device 200, and a third outlet 305 for discharging filtered purified air can be formed on the upper side of the lower air supply device 300. The second outlet 205 can be referred to as an area that is open on the upper side of the upper discharge guide 280 (described later), or, if an upper discharge grille 285 is disposed inside the upper discharge guide 280, as an area that is open on the upper side of the upper discharge grille 285. The second outlet 205 can be formed between the circulator 100 disposed on the upper side of the upper air supply device 200 and the upper discharge grille 285.

[0151] The circulator 100 is movably disposed on one side of the upper air supply device 200, thereby enabling it to change the direction of the air discharged through the second outlet 205 and discharge it to the outside. As an example, the circulator 100 can be disposed upwardly spaced from the second outlet 205 formed on the upper side of the upper air supply device 200, thereby changing the direction of the air discharged from the second outlet 205 to the direction of the airflow.

[0152] Additionally, an airflow direction adjustment device 400 may be configured between the upper air supply device 200 and the lower air supply device 300. This airflow direction adjustment device 400 is configured separately from the third outlet 305 of the lower air supply device 300, restricting the upward flow of air discharged through the third outlet 305 and causing the air to be discharged radially outward. In the above, "restricting the upward flow" can be understood as preventing the air discharged through the third outlet 305 of the lower air supply device 300 from flowing directly into the upper air supply device 200 instead of towards the external space.

[0153] Reference Figure 10 Inside the upper air supply device 200, it can interact with... Figure 1 The second intake port 202 shown is correspondingly equipped with a first filter 220, which can be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0154] The first filter 220 can be fixed / supported by the first filter support 225 and the first filter cover (not shown) attached to its outer side. A sensor device (not shown) including a dust sensor and a gas sensor for measuring the amount of dust contained in the incoming air can be disposed on the upper side of the first filter 220.

[0155] An outlet for incoming air can be formed in the center of the upper side of the first filter 220, and a first fan housing 250 accommodating the first blower fan 230 can be disposed on the outlet side of the first filter 220.

[0156] An upper air guide 270 may be disposed on the upper side of the first fan housing 250 to guide the flow of air blown by the first air supply fan 230. In addition, an upper discharge guide 280 may be disposed on the upper side of the upper air guide 270 to guide the air passing through the upper air guide 270 to the upper discharge grille 285.

[0157] The second outlet 205 can be formed along the circumference of the upper outlet grille 285. As the second outlets 205 are formed circumferentially on the upper side of the upper outlet grille 285, a plurality of second outlets 205 can be arranged in a ring on the upper side of the upper outlet grille 285.

[0158] The lower air supply device 300 can be similar to the upper air supply device 200 in structure and function.

[0159] In the above, the structure and function of the upper air supply device 200 are similar to those of the lower air supply device 300, and the structures that constitute the lower air supply device 300 can correspond to the structures that constitute the upper air supply device 200, and perform the same or similar functions.

[0160] That is, the second filter 320 of the lower air supply device 300 can correspond to the first filter 220, the second fan housing 350 can correspond to the first fan housing 250, the lower air guide 370 can correspond to the upper air guide 270, the lower discharge guide 380 can correspond to the upper discharge guide 280, and the lower discharge grille 385 can correspond to the upper discharge grille 285.

[0161] An air direction adjustment device 400, which serves as a separator separating the lower air supply device 300 and the upper air supply device 200, can be configured on the upper side of the lower exhaust grille 385.

[0162] Additionally, through the second suction port 202 formed on the first outer casing 201 (see reference) Figure 9Air flowing into the upper air supply device 200 can pass through the first filter 220. The air that has passed through the first filter 220 can flow upward and flow into the first air supply fan 230 through the first fan inlet 251. The inflowing air can be blown upward by the first air supply fan 230, which is connected to and rotates with the first fan motor 240. It can flow upward sequentially through the first fan housing 250, the upper air guide 270, the upper exhaust guide 280, and the second exhaust outlet 205.

[0163] An circulator 100 can be installed above the second discharge port 205, allowing air discharged from the upper discharge guide 280 to be discharged to the outside through the circulator 100. As mentioned earlier, the circulator 100 is equipped with a circulating fan 30 and a motor 40, thus enabling the air passing through the upper air guide 270 to be smoothly discharged to the outside through the upper discharge guide 280 and the second discharge port 305 in sequence.

[0164] At this time, a portion of the air expelled from the second outlet 205 can pass through the first inlet S1 (refer to...). Figure 4 It flows into the interior of the circulator 100 and is discharged in front of the first discharge port S3.

[0165] However, a portion of the air discharged from the second outlet 205 does not flow into the first inlet S1, but instead flows outside the first inlet S1. At this time, the second outer wall 12 can guide the air discharged from the second outlet 205 and flowing outside the first inlet S1 along the outer side of the first outer wall 11 towards the front of the circulator 100 (see reference). Figure 12 and Figure 13 Therefore, the first outer wall 11 and the second outer wall 12 of the circulator 100 can prevent the air volume from being reduced due to leakage of air from the upper air supply device 200 to the outside of the first intake port S1, and maximize the amount of purified air flowing in the directional direction.

[0166] Furthermore, the diameter w1 of the first intake port S1 formed behind the circulator 100 can be smaller than the diameter w4 of the second discharge port 205. In this case, the second outer wall 12, which gradually extends radially outward from the first intake port S1 toward the first outer wall 11, can face at least a portion of the second discharge port 205. Therefore, a portion of the purified air discharged from the second discharge port 205 can be drawn into the circulator through the first intake port S1 and discharged, while the purified air that is not drawn into the first intake port but flows outside the first intake port is guided along the outer side of the second outer wall 12 toward the outer surface of the first outer wall 11, thereby being discharged in the desired direction.

[0167] The second outlet 205 is formed circumferentially on the upper side of the upper air supply device 200, and the circulator 100 can be configured on the upper side of the second outlet 205 formed circumferentially. At this time, the second outer wall 12 extending radially outward and the second outlet 205 face each other in the circumferential direction, and the air discharged upward from the second outlet 205 can contact all surfaces of the second outer wall 12 in the circumferential direction and be guided in the airflow direction.

[0168] Furthermore, in order to adjust the flow direction of the air discharged towards the front of the circulator 100, the circulator 100 can be movably disposed above the upper air supply device 200. In this case, a rotation guide device 290 for guiding the movement of the circulator 100 can be disposed above the upper air supply device 200 and attached to the rear of the circulator 100. The circulator 100 rotates in a predetermined direction using the rotation guide device 290, thereby changing the flow direction of the air discharged upwards through the second discharge port 205.

[0169] Furthermore, air flowing into the lower air supply device 300 through the third intake port 302 formed on the second housing 301 can pass through the second filter 320. The air that has passed through the second filter 320 can flow upwards and then flow into the second air supply fan 330 through the second fan inlet 351. At this time, the inflowing air can be blown upwards by the second air supply fan 330, which is connected to and rotates with the second fan motor 340, and flows upwards sequentially through the second fan housing 350, the lower air guide 370, the lower exhaust guide 380, the lower exhaust grille 385, and the third exhaust port 305.

[0170] Air blown to the upper side by the second air supply fan 330 is discharged to the outside of the lower air supply device 300 through the lower exhaust grille 385. Its upward flow is restricted by the air direction adjustment device 400, and it flows radially outward to the air purifier 1.

[0171] In the above embodiments, the lower air supply device 300 can be omitted, and in this case, the upper air supply device 200 can be referred to as an air supply device.

[0172] Reference Figure 11 The circulator 100 may further include a rotation guide device 290, which guides the rotation of the circulator 100 in the left-right direction and the rotation in the up-down direction. The rotation in the left-right direction can be referred to as "first direction rotation", and the rotation in the up-down direction can be referred to as "second direction rotation".

[0173] The rotation guide device 290 may include: a first rotation guide mechanism for guiding the circulator 100 to rotate in a first direction; and a second rotation guide mechanism for guiding the circulator 100 to rotate in a second direction.

[0174] The first rotational guiding mechanism may include a first rack 293 for guiding the circulator 100 to rotate in a first direction. Furthermore, the first rotational guiding mechanism may include a first gear motor 292 for generating driving force; and a first gear 291 capable of engaging with the first gear motor 292 for rotation. As an example, the first gear motor 292 may include a step motor that allows for easy control of the rotation angle.

[0175] When the first gear motor 292 is driven, the rotary guide device 290 can rotate in the left-right direction by means of the linkage between the first gear 291 and the first rack 293. Therefore, the circulator 100 can rotate in the first direction according to the movement of the first rotary guide mechanism.

[0176] The second rotational guiding mechanism may include a second rack 295 for guiding the circulator 100 to rotate in a second direction. Furthermore, the second rotational guiding mechanism may include a second gear motor 297 for generating driving force, and a second gear 296 coupled to the second gear motor 297. As an example, the second gear motor 297 may include a stepper motor.

[0177] When the second gear motor 297 is driven, the rotary guide device 290 can rotate in the vertical direction by means of the linkage between the second gear 296 and the second rack 295. Therefore, the circulator 100 can rotate in a second direction according to the movement of the second rotary guide mechanism.

[0178] When the circulator 100 rotates in the second direction, it can be positioned protruding from the top of the air purifier 1. In this case, as... Figure 13 As shown, the position where the circulator 100 is tilted vertically is called the "second position," in which the front of the circulator 100 faces the direction of the airflow. On the other hand, as... Figure 12 As shown, the position in which the circulator 100 is placed horizontally can be called the "first position", in which the front of the circulator 100 faces upward.

[0179] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13As mentioned above, the air flowing into the upper air supply device 200 through the second intake port 202 can flow upward through the first filter 220 and into the first air supply fan 230 through the first fan inlet 251. At this time, the incoming air can be blown upward by the first air supply fan 230 and sequentially discharged into the upper part of the second outlet 205 through the first fan housing 250, the upper air guide 270, and the upper discharge guide 280.

[0180] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown, when the circulator 100 is in a first position, lying horizontally above the upper air supply device 200, the first outer wall 11 of the circulator 100 can be elongated in the direction of air discharge from the second outlet 205, and the second outer wall 12 is spaced upward from the second outlet 205 and is arranged to face the second outlet 205 at an angle. At this time, the second outer wall 12 can be arranged radially outward in the direction of air discharge from the second outlet 205.

[0181] At this time, a portion of the purified air discharged from the second outlet 205 can pass through the first inlet S1 (refer to...) Figure 4 The fluid flows into the circulator 100 and is blown upward by the circulating fan 30, and is then discharged to the upper side of the first discharge port S3 through the motor housing 50 and the guide vane device 70 in sequence.

[0182] Furthermore, a portion of the purified air discharged from the second outlet 205 can flow toward the second outer wall 12 and be discharged radially outward along the inclined surface formed by the second outer wall 12 toward the circulator 100. Therefore, when the circulator 100 is in the first position, it has the advantage that the circulator 100 can uniformly discharge the purified air discharged in one direction by the upper air supply device 200 in a 360-degree direction.

[0183] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, when the circulator 100 is in the second position of the vertical orientation, the first outer wall 11 can be configured to be elongated in the direction of airflow, and at least a portion of the second outer wall 12 is configured to gradually extend in the direction of airflow from the first outer wall to the second outlet.

[0184] At this time, a portion of the purified air discharged from the second outlet 205 can pass through the first inlet S1 (refer to...) Figure 4 The air flows into the circulator 100 and is blown in the direction of airflow by the circulating fan 30, and is discharged in front of the first discharge port S3 through the motor housing 50 and the guide vane device 70 in sequence.

[0185] Furthermore, a portion of the purified air discharged from the second outlet 205 can flow toward the second outer wall 12 and be guided along the inclined surface formed by the second outer wall 12 to the outer surface of the first outer wall 11, and then discharged toward the front of the circulator 100. Therefore, when the circulator 100 is in the second position, it has the advantage of minimizing the flow energy loss caused by the leakage of purified air discharged from the upper air supply device 200 to the outside of the circulator 100 and the reduction in the amount of air discharged in the airflow direction.

[0186] Reference Figures 14 to 16 , Figure 14 (b) Figure 15 (b) Figure 16 (b) shows an air purifier (hereinafter, B) including a circulator 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 of (a), Figure 15 of (a), Figure 16 (a) shows an air purifier (hereinafter, A) including a circulator (not shown) of another embodiment. Figure 14 of (a), Figure 15 of (a), Figure 16 In case (a), the second outer side wall 12 of the circulator according to an embodiment of the present invention is excluded, but an intake grille (not shown) with a plurality of vent holes is arranged at the location of the second outer side wall 12.

[0187] Based on the analysis of the airflow of A and B from different angles of the circulator, in B, the air discharged from the upper air supply device 200 is guided in the direction of direction along the outer wall of the circulator, thereby increasing the velocity and volume of the airflow in the direction of direction compared to A.

[0188] In particular, the degree to which the circulator is vertically positioned from the second outlet of the upper air supply device 200 increases (from... Figures 14 to 16 In case A, the amount of air leaking to the outside of the circulator increases significantly, while in case B, the amount of air leaking to the outside decreases significantly compared to case A.

[0189] The flow analysis results showed that the average airflow volume expelled in the direction of the airflow in A was 9.6 cm², and the average airflow volume in B was 10 cm², thus confirming that the airflow volume of the directional airflow increased by about 6%.

[0190] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Instead, various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention as claimed in the claims. Such modifications should not be understood solely from the technical concept or prospect of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air purifier, wherein, include: Air supply device; as well as A circulator, movably configured downstream of the air supply device, reverses the flow direction of the air discharged from the air supply device. The circulator includes: The housing includes an outer wall forming an outer peripheral surface, an inlet formed on one side adjacent to the outlet of the air supply device, and an outlet formed on the other side. A circulating fan includes a hub spaced apart from the intake port, a plurality of blades extending obliquely from the hub toward one side of the housing, and a shroud connecting the ends of the plurality of blades, the circulating fan being disposed inside the housing; A motor, incorporated in the hub, is used to rotate the circulating fan; and A guide vane device is disposed between the outlet of the circulator and the circulating fan; The guide vane device includes: The front inner sidewall, disposed inside the outer sidewall, forms part of the inner peripheral surface of the circulator; and A plurality of guide vanes are arranged along the inner peripheral surface of the circulator to direct the air exhausted from the circulating fan toward the front inner wall; The plurality of guide vanes extend obliquely from the front inner sidewall relative to the axis of rotation of the circulating fan.

2. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of guide vanes extend from the front inner sidewall along the plurality of blades.

3. The air purifier according to claim 2, wherein, The front inner wall has a cylindrical shape. The guide vane device also includes: The blade joint is disposed on the inner side of the front inner wall, extends along the circumference of the circulator, and is joined with the plurality of guide vanes; The outlet of the circulator is formed as an annular shape between one end of the front inner wall and the blade junction.

4. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The front inner sidewall facing the plurality of blades is formed in an arc shape toward the discharge port.

5. The air purifier according to claim 1, wherein, The outer wall of the housing includes: The first outer sidewall extends along the axis of the circulating fan, with an opening on one side forming the outlet of the circulator; and The second outer wall forms the intake by connecting one side to the other side of the first outer wall and extending the other side at an angle from the first outer wall toward the shaft of the circulating fan. The end of the other side of the second outer wall, adjacent to the edge of the inlet, is located inside the outlet of the air supply device in the width direction of the air supply device.

6. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, The edge of the inlet formed at the end of the second outer side wall is located inside the outer edge of the outlet of the circulator formed on one side of the first outer side wall, which is formed parallel to the axis of rotation of the circulating fan.

7. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, The outer surface of the second outer sidewall is formed in an arc at the junction of the first outer sidewall and the second outer sidewall.

8. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, The circulator also includes: A motor base, disposed at the inlet, is connected to the second outer side wall to support the motor.

9. The air purifier according to claim 8, wherein, The circulator also includes a motor housing portion disposed on the motor base to support the motor; The motor housing includes: The rear inner wall is disposed between the front inner wall and the inlet, and is disposed inside the second outer wall, and has openings at the front and rear to form another part of the inner peripheral surface of the circulator; A motor cover, configured on the opposite side of the motor base to surround the motor; and An inner grille is formed between the rear inner wall and the motor cover to create an intake flow path.

10. The air purifier according to claim 9, wherein, The rear inner wall extends radially from the intake port toward the circulating fan side and is obliquely configured along the second outer wall.

11. The air purifier according to claim 9, wherein, The motor cover is formed to surround the motor, creating a space between it and the rear inner sidewall to accommodate a portion of the circulating fan.

12. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, The shield is tilted toward the second outer side wall of the housing.

13. The air purifier according to claim 12, wherein, The hub includes: The inner hub has a shaft engagement portion that engages with the output shaft of the motor; and An outer hub, extending from the inner hub and connected to the plurality of blades, is inclined toward the second outer sidewall.

14. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, The diameter (w1) of the inlet is larger than the diameter (w2') of the inlet of the shield.

15. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, The diameter (w1) of the inlet is smaller than the diameter (w4) of the outlet of the air supply device.

16. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, The first outer side wall of the housing has a cylindrical shape extending along the axis of rotation of the circulating fan, and the diameter of the inlet is smaller than the diameter formed by the outer peripheral surface of the first outer side wall.

17. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, When the circulator is in the first position of the horizontal position... The first outer side wall extends in the air discharge direction toward the outlet of the air supply device. The second outer side wall is separated from the outlet of the air supply device on the upper side and faces the outlet of the air supply device at an angle.

18. The air purifier according to claim 5, wherein, When the circulator is in the second position of the vertical orientation... The first outermost wall extends in the direction of the airflow. The second outer wall is configured in the direction in which air is discharged from the outlet of the air supply device.

19. The air purifier according to claim 6, wherein, The diameter (w1) formed by the edge of the inlet of the circulator is smaller than the diameter (w3) formed by the end of one side of the first outer side wall that forms the outlet of the circulator.

Images