Air treatment device

Abstract

An air treatment device comprising an air flow generator arranged to generate an air flow; a moisture source arranged to introduce water vapor into the air flow; a body surrounding both the airflow generator and the moisture source in use; and a water supply system arranged to provide water to the moisture source. The water supply system includes a water tank assembly separable from the body, the water tank assembly including a water tank; a water supply conduit arranged to convey water from the water tank; and an ultraviolet light source arranged to irradiate water passing through the water supply conduit. The water tank comprises a water tank opening, and the water tank assembly further comprises a removable water tank cover arranged to be mounted on the water tank opening, and the ultraviolet light source and the water supply pipeline are arranged on the removable water tank cover.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese invention patent application (application number: 201911412057.1, application date: December 31, 2019, invention name: air treatment device). Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of air treatment devices, and more specifically, to a humidifier, and in particular to an evaporative humidifier. Background Art

[0003] A humidifier is a device that increases the humidity (moisture) in a single room or throughout the house. By regulating humidity levels, humidifiers can provide health benefits to those who experience excessively dry skin, sinus infections, dust allergies, etc. For home use, the two most common types of humidifiers are ultrasonic humidifiers and evaporative humidifiers.

[0004] Ultrasonic humidifiers use piezoelectric transducers to create higher frequency mechanical vibrations within a smaller volume of water. This forms a mist of very fine water droplets that are usually expelled from the humidifier by an air stream created by a fan. These droplets will contain all the impurities in the water, including minerals from hard water, and any pathogens present will be emitted into the air.

[0005] Evaporative humidifiers use a wick made of a porous material that absorbs water from a reservoir and provides a large surface area for it to evaporate. A fan is used to force air to flow through the holes in the wick, thereby introducing water vapor into the air stream. In an evaporative humidifier, any mineral deposits present in the water will be trapped in the wick. However, the wick will fill up with mineral deposits over time and will also become moldy if not allowed to dry completely. Therefore, evaporative humidifiers generally require regular cleaning or replacement of the wick. Summary of the invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide an air treatment device including a humidifier which provides various advantages over conventional household humidifiers. In particular, the present invention provides an evaporative humidifier having improved humidification efficiency, and improved hygiene while also making the wick easier to remove and clean.

[0007] According to a first aspect, an air treatment device is provided. The air treatment device comprises an air flow generator arranged to generate an air flow; a moisture source arranged to introduce water vapor into the air flow; a body, which in use surrounds both the air flow generator and the moisture source; and a water supply system arranged to provide water to the moisture source. The water supply system comprises a water tank assembly, which is detachable from the body, the water tank assembly comprising a water tank; a water supply conduit, at least partially arranged in the water tank and arranged to convey water from the water tank toward the moisture source; and an ultraviolet light source, arranged to irradiate water passing through the water supply conduit with ultraviolet light. The water tank comprises a water tank opening, and the water tank assembly further comprises a removable water tank cover, which is arranged to be mounted on the water tank opening and thereby occlude the water tank opening, and the ultraviolet light source and the water supply conduit are arranged on the removable water tank cover.

[0008] Preferably, the removable tank cover is arranged to be releasably retained on the tank.Preferably, the tank opening is provided in an upper surface of the tank.

[0009] In particular, the water tank assembly has a detachable connection to the body. The body may include an air inlet through which an air flow is drawn into the body and an air outlet for emitting the air flow from the body. The air treatment device may then further include a nozzle mounted on the body above the air outlet, the nozzle being arranged to receive the air flow from the body and emit the air flow from the air treatment device.

[0010] The water supply pipe may be arranged so that water from the water tank enters the water supply pipe adjacent to the first end and leaves the water supply pipe adjacent to the second end, and the water supply pipe includes a UV-transmissive window arranged at the second end of the water supply pipe. The first end of the water supply pipe may be closed and the second end of the water supply pipe is open. The UV-transmissive window may then cover the open second end of the water supply pipe. Preferably, the UV light source is arranged to longitudinally illuminate the interior of the water supply pipe through the UV-transmissive window.

[0011] The water supply conduit may include a lateral water inlet disposed at a first end of the water supply conduit, and a lateral water outlet disposed at a second end of the water supply conduit. One or both of the lateral water inlet and the lateral water outlet may extend tangentially from the water supply conduit. The water supply conduit may include an integrally formed homogenizing tube having an open end and a closed end. Preferably, the water supply conduit includes polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and preferably includes undoped PTFE.

[0012] The water supply system may further comprise a water pump for pumping water from the water tank through the water supply pipe. Preferably, the water pump comprises a centrifugal pump. The water pump may be arranged on a removable water tank cover. In other words, the water pump may be attached to the removable water tank cover. The removable water tank cover may be provided with a pump housing, and the water pump is accommodated in the pump housing. The pump housing may be attached to at least a portion of the removable water tank cover, or be formed integrally therewith. The pump housing protrudes from the removable water tank cover so that when the removable water tank cover is arranged on the water tank opening, the pump is arranged in the water tank. Preferably, the pump housing protrudes from the lower surface of the removable water tank cover.

[0013] The removable water tank cover may include a water supply outlet through which water pumped from the water tank is delivered out of the removable water tank cover. A water supply conduit may be arranged between the water pump and the water supply outlet.

[0014] The air flow generator may be arranged to generate an air flow across the moisture source so as to humidify the air flow / generate a humidified air flow. The air flow generator may include a motor driven impeller. The body may also include an air inlet through which the air flow is sucked into the body (through the air flow generator) and an air outlet, the air flow being used to emit the air flow from the body downstream of the moisture source. The moisture source may include an evaporator assembly, which includes one or more evaporation elements. The air handling device may then be arranged so that the evaporator assembly is arranged in the air flow passing through the body of the air handling device in use.

[0015] The air handling device may then further comprise a nozzle mounted on the body above the air outlet, the nozzle being arranged to receive the air flow from the body and emit the air flow from the air handling device.The nozzle may comprise at least one air outlet for emitting the air flow from the air handling device.

[0016] According to a second aspect, there is provided an ultraviolet disinfection device for disinfecting water supply. The ultraviolet disinfection device comprises a water tank assembly, the water tank assembly comprising a water tank arranged to contain a volume of water inside the water tank; a water supply pipe arranged at least partially inside the water tank and arranged to convey water out of the inside of the water tank; and an ultraviolet light source arranged to irradiate water passing through the water supply pipe with ultraviolet light. The water tank comprises a water tank opening, and the water tank assembly further comprises a removable water tank cover arranged to be mounted on the water tank opening and thereby occlude the water tank opening, and the ultraviolet light source and the water supply pipe are disposed on the removable water tank cover.

[0017] The water supply pipe may be arranged so that water from the water tank enters the water supply pipe adjacent to the first end and leaves the water supply pipe adjacent to the second end, and the water supply pipe includes a UV-transmissive window arranged at the second end of the water supply pipe. The first end of the water supply pipe may be closed and the second end of the water supply pipe is open. The UV-transmissive window may then cover the open second end of the water supply pipe. Preferably, the UV light source is arranged to longitudinally illuminate the interior of the water supply pipe through the UV-transmissive window.

[0018] The water supply conduit may include a lateral water inlet disposed at a first end of the water supply conduit, and a lateral water outlet disposed at a second end of the water supply conduit. One or both of the lateral water inlet and the lateral water outlet may extend tangentially from the water supply conduit. The water supply conduit may include an integrally formed homogenizing tube having an open end and a closed end. Preferably, the water supply conduit includes polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and preferably includes undoped PTFE.

[0019] The water supply system may further comprise a water pump for pumping water from the water tank through the water supply pipe. Preferably, the water pump comprises a centrifugal pump. The water pump may be arranged on a removable water tank cover. The removable water tank cover may be provided with a pump housing, and the water pump is accommodated in the pump housing. The pump housing may be attached to at least a portion of the removable water tank cover, or be formed integrally therewith. The pump housing protrudes from the removable water tank cover so that when the removable water tank cover is arranged on the water tank opening, the pump is arranged in the water tank. Preferably, the pump housing protrudes from the lower surface of the removable water tank cover.

[0020] The removable water tank cover may include a water supply outlet through which water pumped from the water tank is delivered out of the removable water tank cover. A water supply conduit may be arranged between the water pump and the water supply outlet.

[0021] The ultraviolet disinfection device may also include a flow regulator, which is arranged to ensure that the flow rate of water through the water supply pipe does not exceed a predetermined maximum value; and the flow regulator may include a container, which is arranged to receive water from a water pump, and the container is fluidly connected to the water supply pipe, and the container includes a wall top, which is arranged to allow water to flow out of the container. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0023] Figure 1 is a front view of a first embodiment of a humidifier described herein;

[0024] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Left side view of the humidifier in;

[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a humidifier in FIG.

[0026] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A front cross-sectional view of a body of a humidifier;

[0027] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of a body of a humidifier in;

[0028] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a body of a humidifier in which the water tank assembly is separated from the body;

[0029] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A top view of a water tank assembly of a humidifier;

[0030] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A side view of a water tank assembly of a humidifier;

[0031] Fig. 9 yes Figure 7 and Figure 8 a perspective view of the water tank assembly in which the handle is in a second configuration;

[0032] Fig.10 The handle to Figure 7 and 8 A side cross-sectional view of the pivotal attachment of the water tank in FIG.

[0033] Fig.11 yes Figure 7 and Figure 8 A perspective view of the water tank assembly in FIG. 1 , wherein the water tank cover assembly is separated from the water tank;

[0034] Fig.12 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of an evaporator assembly of a humidifier in FIG.

[0035] Fig.13 is a perspective view of the water tank assembly with the evaporator assembly located Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the water tank;

[0036] Fig.14 is a side cross-sectional view of the water tank assembly with the evaporator assembly located Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the water tank;

[0037] Fig.15 yes Figure 7 and 8 A perspective view of a water tank cover assembly of the water tank assembly;

[0038] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 A rear view of the radiator cap assembly;

[0039] Fig.17 yes Fig.15 A side cross-sectional view of a water tank cover assembly;

[0040] Fig.18 yes Fig.15 A rear cross-sectional view of the radiator cap assembly;

[0041] Fig.19 yes Fig.15 A perspective cross-sectional view of a radiator cap assembly in FIG.

[0042] Fig. 20 yes Fig.15 A top cross-sectional view of a water tank cover assembly;

[0043] Fig.21 yes Fig.15 A bottom cross-sectional view of a water tank cover assembly;

[0044] Fig. 22 yes Fig.15 A perspective view of a pump system of a water tank cover assembly;

[0045] Fig.23 yes Figure 1 A front cross-sectional view of a lower body section of the humidifier without a water tank assembly;

[0046] Fig.24 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of the humidifier body to water tank connector;

[0047] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 A bottom cross-sectional view of a body-to-tank connector in FIG.

[0048] Fig.26 is a rear perspective view of the evaporator tray, with Figure 1 the humidifier body to water tank connector;

[0049] Fig. 27 is a front perspective view of the evaporator tray, with Figure 1 the humidifier body to water tank connector;

[0050] Fig.28 yes Fig.26 and 27 A front cross-sectional view of an evaporator tray;

[0051] Fig.29 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a humidifier in which the filter assembly is separated from the humidifier;

[0052] Fig.30 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a humidifier in which the evaporator assembly is separated from the humidifier;

[0053] Fig.31 yes Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of a filter assembly of a humidifier;

[0054] Fig.32 yes Fig.31 a rear perspective view of the filter assembly in FIG. 1 with the cover separated from the filter assembly;

[0055] Fig.33 yes Figure 1 A top view of an evaporator assembly of a humidifier;

[0056] Fig.34 yes Figure 1 A front cross-sectional view of an evaporator assembly of a humidifier;

[0057] Fig.35 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the evaporator assembly of the humidifier;

[0058] Fig.36 Schematic diagram of a porous material suitable for Figure 33-35 Evaporator assembly in;

[0059] Fig.37 is a front view of a second embodiment of a humidifier described herein;

[0060] Fig.38 yes Fig.37 A side view of a humidifier in FIG.

[0061] Fig.39 It passes through Fig.38 A side cross-sectional view of a body of a humidifier in;

[0062] Fig.40 yes Fig.37 A perspective view of a humidifier in which the water tank assembly is separated from the body;

[0063] Fig.41 yes Fig.37 A perspective view of a humidifier in which the filter assembly is separated from the body;

[0064] Fig.42 is a side cross-sectional view through a filter assembly, which is suitable for Fig.37 Humidifier in;

[0065] Fig.43 yes Fig.37 A front perspective view of a water tank assembly of a humidifier having an evaporator assembly;

[0066] Fig.44 yes Fig.43 a rear perspective view of a water tank assembly in which the evaporator assembly is separated from the water tank assembly;

[0067] Fig.45 is a rear perspective view of the water tank assembly with a removable water tank cover separated from the water tank;

[0068] Fig.46 yes Figures 43 to 45 A front view of a water tank cover of the water tank assembly;

[0069] Fig.47 yes Fig.46 A perspective view of the water tank cover in FIG.

[0070] Fig.48 yes Fig.46 A side cross-sectional view of a water tank cover;

[0071] Fig.49 yes Fig.46 A perspective cross-sectional view of a water tank cover in FIG.

[0072] Fig.50 yes Fig.46 A top cross-sectional view of a water tank cover in FIG.

[0073] Fig.51 yes Fig.46 A perspective view of the pump system of the water tank cover;

[0074] Fig.52 yes Fig.37 A top view of a water tank assembly of a humidifier, wherein the evaporator assembly is arranged on a water tank cover;

[0075] Fig.53 yes Fig.37 A bottom view of a body of the humidifier;

[0076] Fig.54 is a side view of the evaporator assembly, which is suitable for Fig.37 Humidifier in;

[0077] Fig.55 yes Fig.54 A side cross-sectional view of an evaporator assembly in FIG.

[0078] Fig.56 yes Fig.54 An exploded view of the evaporator assembly in FIG.

[0079] Fig.57 When placed on the radiator cap Figures 54 to 56 A side cross-sectional view of an evaporator assembly in FIG.

[0080] Fig.58 yes Fig.37 A perspective view of a water tank assembly of a humidifier in which the evaporator assembly is located within the water tank; and

[0081] Fig.59 yes Fig.37 A side cross-sectional view of a water tank assembly of a humidifier in which the evaporator assembly is located within the water tank. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] An air treatment device will now be described which provides various advantages over conventional household humidifiers. The air treatment device comprises an air flow generator arranged to generate an air flow; a moisture source arranged to introduce water vapor into the air flow; a body which, in use, surrounds both the air flow generator and the moisture source; and a water supply system arranged to provide water to the moisture source. The water supply system comprises a water tank assembly which is detachable from the body, the water tank assembly comprising a water tank; a water supply conduit arranged at least partially within the water tank and arranged to convey water from the water tank toward the moisture source; and an ultraviolet light source arranged to irradiate water passing through the water supply conduit with ultraviolet light. The water tank comprises a water tank opening, and the water tank assembly further comprises a removable water tank cover arranged to be mounted on the water tank opening and thereby occlude the water tank opening, and the ultraviolet light source and the water supply conduit are disposed on the removable water tank cover. The water tank assembly preferably has a detachable / separable connection to the body of the humidifier which allows the water tank to be released from the humidifier body and subsequently reconnected to the humidifier body. Preferably, the removable tank cover is arranged to be releasably retained on the tank.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the body of the air treatment device comprises an air inlet through which an air flow is drawn into the body and an air outlet / exhaust port, the air outlet being located downstream of the moisture source for emitting a humidified air flow from the body. The air treatment device may then further comprise a nozzle mounted on the body above the exhaust port / air outlet, the nozzle being arranged to receive the humidified air flow from the body and emitting the air flow from the air treatment device. In particular, the nozzle may comprise one or more air outlets for emitting a humidified air flow from the nozzle. The term "air outlet" as used herein refers to a portion of a nozzle through which any air flow is intentionally discharged from the nozzle.

[0084] Figure 1 , 2 and Figure 3 is an external view of the first embodiment of the humidifier 1000 . Figure 1 shows a front view of a humidifier 1000, Figure 2 A side view of the humidifier 1000 is shown, and Figure 3A perspective view of a humidifier 1000 is shown. The humidifier 1000 comprises a body 1100 containing an air flow generator arranged to generate an air flow through the humidifier 1000, a moisture or water vapor source 1200 arranged to introduce water vapor into the air flow, a water supply system arranged to provide water to the moisture source, and a nozzle 1600 mounted on the body 1100, arranged to emit the air flow from the humidifier 1000.

[0085] Figure 4 A front cross-sectional view of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 is shown, Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 is shown. In this first embodiment, the moisture source 1200 includes an evaporator assembly or evaporation wick that is disposed within the air flow passing through the humidifier 1000. In particular, the evaporator assembly 1200 includes an arrangement 1201 of porous material that absorbs water supplied to it by a water supply system and provides a large surface area to allow water to evaporate as the air flow passes through the evaporator assembly 1200, thereby introducing water vapor into the air flow.

[0086] The water supply system then comprises a water tank assembly 1300, 1400 having a detachable / separable connection to the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000, and a water supply conduit arranged to deliver water to the evaporator assembly 1200. The water tank assembly comprises a water tank 1300 and a water pump 1403 arranged to be arranged within the water tank 1300 and to deliver water from the water tank 1300 to the evaporator assembly 1200 via the water supply conduit. In particular, the water tank 1300 has a water tank opening or hole 1312 through which the water tank 1300 can be filled with water, and a removable water tank cover or covering 1400 arranged to be mounted over and thereby occlude the water tank opening 1312, wherein the water pump 1403 is disposed on the removable water tank cover 1400. In this first embodiment, a first portion of the water supply conduit 1407, 1431 is then arranged within the removable tank cover 1400, while a second portion of the water supply conduit is arranged within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. The first portion of the water supply conduit 1407, 1431 can thus be considered as part of the tank assembly 1300, 1400.

[0087] In this first implementation, the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 includes a generally cylindrical upper body section 1101 mounted to a generally cylindrical lower body section 1102. The lower body section 1102 provides a base 1103 on which the humidifier 1000 sits and a top 1104 that separates the lower body section 1102 from the upper body section 1101. The lower body section 1102 then defines a cavity or chamber 1105 between the base 1103 and the top 1104 in which the water tank 1300 is disposed. In particular, the lower body section 1102 includes a side wall 1106 that extends between the base 103 and the top 1104 and connects the base 1103 to the top 1104, wherein this side wall 1106 defines a side opening 1107 into the cavity 1105 that allows the water tank 1300 to be inserted / pushed into and withdrawn / pulled out of the cavity 1105. Thus, the water tank 1300 can be inserted into and removed from the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 by sliding the water tank 1300 laterally relative to the body 1100 (i.e., sliding horizontally when the humidifier 1000 is placed on the base 1103).

[0088] The humidifier 1000 is also provided with a water tank retaining mechanism 1108, 1301 for releasably retaining a water tank 1300 in a cavity 1105 provided in the lower body section 1102. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank retaining mechanism 1108, 1301 comprises a pair of movable water tank latches 1108 and a pair of water tank latch holders 1301, the movable water tank latches 1108 being provided by the lower body section on opposite sides of a side opening 1107 into the cavity 1105, and the water tank latch holders 1301 being provided on the water tank 1300, wherein each water tank latch holder 1301 is arranged to be engaged by one of the movable water tank latches 1108 when the water tank 1300 is arranged in the cavity 1105.

[0089] In particular, each movable tank catch 1108 comprises a tank catch member 1108a arranged to slide between a first position and a second position within a respective channel defined within the lower body section 1102. The tank catch member 1108a is then provided with a catch surface arranged to engage a respective tank catch holder 1301 when the tank is located within the cavity 1105 and the tank catch member 1108a is in the first position, and is arranged to disengage from the respective tank catch holder 1301 when the tank catch member 1108a is in the second position. Each movable tank catch 1108 then further comprises a resilient member 1108b, such as a return / compression spring, arranged to bias the tank catch member 1108a into the first position. The tank catch member 1108a is then provided with a tank catch button 1108c (i.e. in the form of a protrusion and / or recess provided on the tank catch member 1108a) which is arranged to, when operated by a user, cause movement of the tank catch member 1108a against the resistance provided by the resilient member so that the tank catch member 1108a can move from a first position to a second position to release the water tank 1300 from the tank retaining mechanism 1108, 1301. Each tank catch button is positioned within a corresponding button opening formed in the lower body section 1102. Each tank latch retainer 1301 then comprises a protrusion extending from the tank 1300 and provided with a cam surface arranged to engage a corresponding latch surface when the tank 1300 is inserted into the cavity 1105, thereby causing the tank latch member 1108a to move from the first position into the second position against the resistance provided by the resilient member 1108b.

[0090] Figure 6 A perspective view of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 is shown, wherein the water tank 1300 is separated from the body 1100. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower body section 1102 of the humidifier 1000 is generally cylindrical in shape. In particular, the base 1103 and the top 1104 of the lower body section 1102 are generally circular in shape, wherein the side wall 1106 of the lower body section 1102 then partially extends around the circumference / periphery of the base 1103 and the top 1104 of the lower body section 1102. The side wall 1106 of the lower body section 1102 is thus generally arcuate in shape, and preferably semi-cylindrical, wherein the opposite ends of the arcuate side wall 1106 then define a side opening 1107 into the cavity 1105. The movable water tank latch 1108 is then disposed within the side wall 1106 , adjacent to the end of the side wall 1106 .

[0091] The water tank 1300 is then arranged to be arranged within the cavity 1105 defined by the lower body section 1102. In particular, the water tank 1300 is arranged to be inserted into or removed from the cavity 1105 by moving / sliding the water tank 1300 laterally relative to the body 1100 through the side opening 1107 into the cavity 1105. The water tank 1300 thus comprises a front portion 1302, which is arranged adjacent to the side opening 1107 when the water tank 1300 is arranged within the cavity 1105, and a rear portion 1303, which is arranged adjacent to the rear of the cavity 1105. The width of the rear portion 1303 is less than the width of the front portion 1302 so that the rear portion 1303 can be inserted into the cavity 1105 while the front portion 1302 fills the side opening 1107. The water tank 1300 is then shaped to generally correspond to the shape of the cavity 1105 so as to optimize the use of the space provided by the cavity 1105, thereby maximizing the capacity of the water tank 1300. In particular, the water tank 1300 has a front wall 1304, which is arranged to be generally flush / level with the edge of the side opening 1107 when the water tank 1300 is arranged in the cavity 1105. The opposite rear wall 1305 of the water tank 1300 is then shaped to generally correspond to the rear / interior surface of the cavity 1105 (which faces the side opening 1107), while the side wall 1306 of the water tank 1300 is shaped to generally correspond to the inner surface of the edge of the cavity 1105 adjacent to the opening 1107.

[0092] Figure 7 A top view of the water tank 1300 is shown. Figure 8A left side view of the water tank 1300 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank 1300 has a curved front wall 1304 having substantially the same radius as the outer surface of the curved side wall 1106 of the lower body section 1102 (as well as the base 1103 and top 1104 of the lower body section 1102) so that the front wall 1304 of the water tank 1300 is flush with the edge of the side opening 1107 when the water tank 1300 is disposed within the cavity 1105. When the water tank 1300 is disposed within the body 1100, the lower portion of the humidifier 1000 thereby has a cylindrical appearance. The water tank 1300 also has a curved rear wall 1305 having a radius approximately the same as the radius of the rear surface of the cavity 1105, so that when the water tank 1300 is arranged in the cavity 1105, the rear wall 1305 of the water tank 1300 is close to / adjacent to the rear surface of the cavity 1105. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower edge of the rear wall 1305 of the water tank 1300 is also partially chamfered / inclined to avoid getting caught on the base 1103 of the lower body section 1102 (i.e., the lower edge of the side opening 1107) when the water tank 1300 is slid into the cavity 1105. The side walls 1306 are thus planar and parallel to each other so as to allow the water tank 1300 to slide laterally through the side opening 1107 while close to / adjacent to the sides of the cavity 1105 (i.e., those portions of the inner surfaces of the side walls 1106 that define the cavity 1105 that are adjacent to the ends of the side walls 1106).

[0093] The water tank 1300 is also provided with a plurality of wheels or rollers 1307, which are arranged on the lower surface of the water tank 1300, and each of which is arranged to rotate about an axis perpendicular to a line bisecting the front and rear of the water tank 1300. Thus, these wheels 1307 can assist the user when sliding the water tank 1300 into the cavity 1105 by allowing the water tank 1300 to roll along the surface of the body 1100 adjacent to the humidifier 1000 onto the base 1103 of the lower body section 1102, and into the cavity 1105. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower surface of the water tank 1300 is provided with three wheels 1307. Two of these wheels 1307 are symmetrically arranged near the rear of the water tank 1300, while the third of these wheels 1307 is arranged near the front of the water tank 1300.

[0094] The water tank 1300 is then also provided with a water tank handle 1308, which is arranged to be gripped by a user when lifting the water tank 1300. The water tank handle 1308 is pivotally attached to the water tank 1300 and is arranged to rotate between a first configuration in which the water tank handle 1308 is stowed adjacent to the upper surface of the water tank 1300 and a second configuration in which the water tank handle 1308 protrudes away from the upper surface of the water tank 1300 so that the handle 1308 can be gripped by a user. In particular, the water tank handle 1308 is bent (i.e. angled or curved), with both ends of the water tank handle 1308 pivotally attached to opposite sides of the upper surface of the water tank 1300. The tank handle 1308 is then rotatable between a first configuration, in which the tank handle 1308 is flush / abutted against an upper surface of the tank 1300 , and a second configuration, in which the tank handle 1308 protrudes perpendicularly relative to the upper surface of the tank 1300 . Fig. 9 Thus, a perspective view of the tank 1300 is shown, wherein the handle 1308 is in the second configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the tank handle 1308 is curved and has substantially the same radius as the front wall 1304 of the tank 1300 (and the curved side wall 1106 of the lower body 1102). The pivotal attachment of the tank handle 1308 to the tank 1300 is then arranged to allow the tank handle 1308 to rotate toward the front of the tank 1300 so that the tank handle 1308 is flush / level with the front wall 1304 of the tank 1300 when the tank handle 1308 is stowed. The lower body section 1102 is then arranged so that the tank handle 1308 is located within the side opening 1107 when the tank 1308 is arranged within the cavity 1105 so that the tank handle 1308 is also flush / level with the edge of the side opening 1107.

[0095] The pivotal attachment of the tank handle 1308 to the tank 1300 is also arranged such that when the tank handle 1308 is in the second configuration and the tank 1300 is lifted by the tank handle 1308, the tank 1300 is prevented from rotating. Fig.10A side cross-sectional view of the pivotal attachment of the handle 1308 to the water tank 1300 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, each end of the water tank handle 1308 is provided with a projection or pivot 1310 which projects vertically from the end of the water tank handle 1308. The water tank 1300 is then provided with two arms 1309 extending upwardly from opposite sides of the upper surface of the water tank 1300, wherein each arm 1309 is then provided with a receptacle or pin hole 1311 (which is arranged to be mounted on one of the projections 1308). The projections 1310 and receptacles 1311 are generally shaped so that the projections 1310 can be rotated within the receptacles 1311. However, each receptacle 1311 is also provided with a recessed portion arranged to receive the protrusion 1310 when the tank handle 1308 protrudes vertically relative to the upper surface of the water tank 1300, and such that the protrusion 1310 is prevented from rotating relative to the receptacle 1311 when the protrusion 1310 is within the recessed portion.

[0096] A water tank opening or hole 1312 is then provided on the upper surface of the water tank 1300. As described in more detail below, the water tank opening 1312 is large enough to allow the evaporator assembly 1200 to be inserted into the water tank 1300, wherein the water tank 1300 is also deep enough to allow the evaporator assembly 1200 to be completely contained within the water tank 1300 when inserted through the water tank opening 1312. Fig.12 A perspective view of the evaporator assembly 1200 is shown thereby, and Fig.13 and 14 The evaporator assembly 1200 is shown positioned within a water tank 1300. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank opening 1312 is circular and relatively large, having a diameter of approximately 180 mm.

[0097] As described above, the water tank 1300 is provided with a water tank cover or covering 1400 arranged to fit over and thereby occlude the water tank opening 1312. The water tank cover 1400 is releasably retained on the water tank 1300 so that the water tank cover 1400 can be removed to allow the water supply within the water tank 1300 to be replenished. Fig.11 A perspective view of the water tank 1300 is shown, wherein the water tank cover 1400 is separated from the water tank 1300, and Fig.15 A perspective view of a water tank cover 1400 is shown, and Fig.16A rear view of a water tank cover 1400 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank cover 1400 includes a cover portion that is generally circular in shape with a rim 1401 that projects downwardly from the periphery of the cover portion. The rim 1401 is arranged to fit closely around a corresponding rim 1313 that projects upwardly from the periphery of the water tank opening 1312, thereby positioning and aligning the water tank cover 1400 above the opening 1312. The water tank cover 1400 is releasably retained on the water tank 1300 by retaining arms 1402 that extend over the upper edge of the side wall 1306 and thereby align the water tank cover 1400 on the water tank 1300, wherein the distal end of each of the retaining arms 1402 is resilient and provided with a protrusion that is arranged to clip onto a corresponding ridge that is provided on the outer surface of the side wall 1306 of the water tank 1300.

[0098] The water tank cover 1400 is also provided with a water tank cover sealing element 1408, which is arranged to form a seal relative to the water tank 1300 when the water tank cover 1400 is arranged on the water tank 1300 and thereby prevent air from leaking into the water tank 1300 through the water tank opening 1312. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank cover sealing element 1408 is provided by an annular flap seal formed of an elastic material (such as rubber) and is arranged to protrude radially outwardly on the underside of the water tank cover 1400, below the cover portion, so that the water tank cover sealing element 1408 contacts the radially inwardly facing surface of the upper edge 1313 provided around the periphery of the water tank opening 1312 and forms a seal relative to the surface.

[0099] The water tank cover 1400 then provides a pump 1403 which is arranged to draw water from the water tank 1300 and through the water supply conduit to the evaporator assembly 1200 . Fig.17 A side cross-sectional view of a water tank cover 1400 is shown, Fig.18 A rear cross-sectional view of the water tank cover 1400 is shown, Fig.19 A perspective cross-sectional view of a water tank cover 1400 is shown, Fig. 20 A top cross-sectional view of the water tank cover 1400 is shown, and Fig.21 A bottom cross-sectional view of the water tank cover 1400 is shown. Fig. 22A perspective view of the water supply system of the water tank cover 1400 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank cover 1400 further comprises a column 1404 which protrudes downwardly from the water tank cover (i.e. below the cover portion) so that when the water tank cover 1400 is located on the water tank 1300, the column 1404 extends into the interior of the water tank 1300, wherein the bottom of the column 1404 is adjacent to the bottom of the water tank 1300. The bottom of the column 1404 is then provided with a pump housing inlet 1405 which allows water to enter the pump housing portion 1406 of the column 1404, wherein the pump 1403 is then disposed at the bottom of the column 1404, within the pump housing 1406, directly above the pump housing inlet 1405. The outlet water supply conduit 1407 is then arranged to deliver water from the pump 1403 to a water supply outlet 1431 disposed at the top of the water tank cover 1400.

[0100] The column 1404 also contains an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system, which is arranged to irradiate the water with UV light as it is pumped from the water tank 1300 to the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. The UV disinfection system includes a UV light source 1409, which is arranged to irradiate the water passing through the outlet water supply pipe 1407. In particular, the UV light source 1409 is arranged to irradiate the water passing through the outlet water supply pipe 1407 with short wavelength UVC light (i.e. 100-280nm). The outlet water supply pipe 1407 is then arranged so that the inner surface can reflect the UV light generated by the UV light source 1409.

[0101] The outlet water supply pipe 1407 comprises a pipe of a material capable of reflecting UVC light, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), wherein a lateral water inlet 1410 is arranged adjacent to the lower end of the pipe, and a lateral water outlet 1411 is arranged adjacent to the upper end. In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral water outlet 1411 comprises a hole formed in the side of the pipe at the upper end and a channel extending away from the hole in a direction tangential to the hollow center of the pipe of the ultraviolet reflective material (i.e., a direction tangential to the inner surface of the pipe). In this regard, the term "tangential" is used here to describe that the water outlet 1411 is arranged so that the water flowing through the water outlet 1411 flows in a direction tangential to the inner surface of the pipe. The UV light source 1409 then comprises a single UV LED arranged at the upper end of the pipe, which is arranged to longitudinally illuminate the interior of the pipe through an upper UV transparent window 1412 (for example, quartz glass) provided at the upper end of the pipe. The tangential arrangement of the water outlet 1411 ensures that the water flowing out of the tube creates a vortex in the tube, which prevents the formation of bubbles on the upper UV transparent window 1412, thereby improving the performance of the disinfection system. In addition, the establishment of the vortex in the tube ensures that the cleaning cycle removes mineral deposits from the UV transparent window 1412.

[0102] By longitudinally irradiating the interior of the tube, which has a higher UV reflectivity, the UV disinfection system can use a single UVC LED as the UV source and still achieve a high level of disinfection.

[0103] The column 1404 also includes a water tank level sensor, which is arranged to detect when the water level in the water tank 1300 exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, the water tank level sensor is arranged to detect when the water level in the water tank 1300 is above or below a predetermined minimum water level. In particular, the bottom of the column 1404 is provided with a float housing inlet 1415, which allows water to enter the float housing portion 1416 of the column 1404, wherein the float 1417 is then arranged at the bottom of the column 1404, within the float housing 1416, directly above the float housing inlet 1415. The float 1417 is then provided with a magnet 1418 attached to the end of an arm 1419 extending from the float 1417 and arranged so that the magnet 1418 is arranged adjacent to a magnetic sensor 1420, such as a unipolar Hall effect sensor, which detects the position of the magnet 1418 relative to the magnetic sensor 1420 and thereby detects a change in the position of the float 1417.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet 1418 is arranged so that the magnetic axis of the magnet 1418 is generally parallel to the direction of movement of the float 1417 (i.e., vertically) and so that the magnet 1418 is beside the magnetic sensor 1420 (i.e., so that the magnetic sensor 1420 is transverse to the magnetic axis of the magnet 1418). The tank water level sensor is thus arranged so that, when the water level in the tank 1300 changes, the movement of the float 1417 causes the magnet 1418 to move across / past the magnetic sensor 1420 in the direction of the magnetic axis, rather than toward or away from the magnetic sensor 1420, so that the magnetic sensor 1420 detects a change in the polarity of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1418. For example, the water level sensor can be arranged so that the magnetic sensor 1420 detects the north pole of the magnet when the float 1417 floats at the top of the float housing 1416, and detects the south pole of the magnet 1418 when the float 1417 drops to the bottom of the float housing 1416. This arrangement improves the accuracy of the water level sensor.

[0105] The column 1404 also includes a flow regulator for the pump system, which is arranged to ensure that the flow rate of water passing through the UV disinfection system does not exceed a predefined maximum value, thereby ensuring that a minimum level of disinfection of the water flowing through the outlet water supply pipe 1407 is maintained. In particular, the flow regulator is provided by a container 1421, which is arranged to receive water from the pump 1403 and which is fluidly connected to the inlet 1410 (which is provided at the lower end of the water supply pipe 1407). The upper end of the container 1421 is then provided with a wall top / edge 1422, which allows excess water to flow out of the container 1421 and back into the water tank 1300, so that the container 1421 can be considered to act as a weir. The container 1421 then also includes a restrictor 1427, wherein the restrictor 1427 is arranged so that the water received by the container 1421 must flow through the restrictor 1427 before passing over the wall top / edge 1422 of the container 1421. By configuring the water pump 1403 to operate at a flow rate that ensures a constant flow of water over the weir provided by the flow regulator, the flow rate of water received by the outlet water supply conduit 1407 is then regulated by a combination of the height of the wall top 1422 of the container 1421 and the size of the restrictor 1427. In particular, any fluctuations in the flow rate of water received from the water pump 1403 (e.g. due to a reduction in the water height within the water tank 1300, fluctuations in the performance of the water pump 1403, etc.) are then offset by fluctuations in the volume of water flowing over the weir provided by the flow regulator so that the flow rate of water received by the outlet water supply conduit 1407 remains substantially constant.

[0106] In the illustrated embodiment, the container 1421 includes a flow regulating chamber provided within the column 1404, which is connected to an inlet 1410 provided at the lower end of the outlet water supply pipe 1407 through a channel or manifold 1423 (which extends from the lower end of the chamber). The outlet of the pump 1403 is then connected to the inlet 1424 provided at the bottom of the flow regulating chamber, while the wall top / edge 1422 includes an outlet provided at the top of the flow regulating chamber (through which water exits the flow regulating chamber into the water tank return tray 1425 (which is provided near the top of the column 1404)). The wall top / edge 1422 is then vertically displaced relative to the outlet 1411 of the outlet water supply pipe 1407 (that is, when the water tank cover 1400 is arranged on the water tank 1300). In particular, the wall top / edge 1422 of the container 1421 is lower than the outlet 1411 of the outlet water supply pipe 1407. The restrictor 1427 then comprises a perforated plate arranged between the inlet and the wall top / edge of the flow conditioning chamber, wherein the perforated plate comprises a wall / baffle extending across the flow conditioning chamber, wherein the restricting holes are formed in the wall / baffle. The tank return tray 1425 is then provided with a drain 1426 through which water can flow back to the tank 1300.

[0107] The top of the water tank cover 1400 is then provided with a water tank to body connector 1430, which is arranged to be connected to a corresponding body to water tank connector 1120 (which is provided on the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000) and through which the water pumped from the water tank 1300 is delivered out of the water tank cover 1400 to the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. The water tank to body connector 1430 is arranged to be generally parallel to the direction in which the water tank 1300 to be inserted into the cavity 1105 is arranged (i.e. laterally relative to the body 1100), and is pointed / faced towards the rear of the water tank 1300, so that during the insertion of the water tank 1300 into the body 1100, the water tank to body connector 1430 mates and / or connects with the corresponding body to water tank connector 1120 (which is provided on the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000).

[0108] The tank-to-body connector 1430 includes a water supply outlet 1431 (through which water pumped from the water tank 1300 is delivered out of the water tank cover 1400, and which is arranged to supply water to a water supply inlet 1211 provided on the body-tank connector 1120). The tank-to-body connector 1430 also includes an electrical connector 1432 for receiving power from the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 and for communicating with the control circuit 1111 (which is provided in the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000). The electrical connector 1432 provided by the tank-to-body connector 1430 is thereby arranged to contact / engage the corresponding electrical connector 1122 (which is provided by the body-to-tank connector 1120). The tank-to-body connector 1430 also includes a water return inlet 1433 through which water can be returned to the tank 1300 through the tank cover 1400, and the water return inlet 1433 is arranged to receive excess water from the water return outlet 1123 (which is provided on the body-to-tank connector 1120). The tank-to-body connector 1430 may also be arranged to receive an air supply from the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 and convey the air supply into the tank 1300. As described below, a water tank 1300 is provided wherein a supply of air from the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 allows the air pressure within the water tank 1300 to be equalized with the air pressure within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000, thereby allowing the water tank 1300 to be sealed and prevent the intrusion of air that does not pass through a filter (which is provided on the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000) without affecting the discharge of excess water back to the water tank 1300.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the tank-to-body connector 1430 includes a connector housing 1434 disposed on top of the tank cover 1400 and arranged to protrude above the upper surface of the tank 1300 when the tank cover 1400 is disposed on the tank 1300. The connector housing 1434 includes a fluid connector section 1434b and two independent electrical connector sections 1434b that are separated from the fluid connector section 1434a and are arranged on both sides of the fluid connector section 1434a.

[0110] The fluid connector section 1434a of the connector housing 1434 comprises a housing that contains a water supply outlet 1431 and a water return inlet 1433. The water supply outlet 1431 then comprises a pipe or conduit that extends from the outlet 1411 (which is provided near the top of the outlet water supply conduit 1407) to the fluid connector section 1434a. The water return inlet 1433 then comprises the above-mentioned tank return tray 1425, wherein the tank return tray 1425 is arranged to be arranged below the water return inlet 1433 when the tank-to-body connector 1430 is connected to the body-to-tank connector 1120. The tank return tray 1425 is also arranged to extend below the water supply outlet 1431 so that any water leaking from the water supply outlet 1431 and / or from the interface between the water supply outlet 1431 and the water supply inlet 1121 of the body 1100 flows back to the tank 1300 through the drain 1426.

[0111] The rearward facing surface of the connector housing 1434 is then provided with an opening through which the water supply inlet 1211 and the water return outlet 1123 (provided on the body to tank connector 1120) can pass into the fluid connector section 1434a of the connector housing 1434. The fluid connector section 1434a can thus be considered to be a female connector (which provides a receptacle), wherein the water supply inlet 1121 and the water return outlet 1123 (which are provided on the body to tank connector 1120) are then considered to be the pins of a male connector.

[0112] The fluid connector section 1434a of the tank-to-body connector 1430 may also include an air supply inlet 1435 that receives a supply of air from the body-to-tank connector 1120 and delivers this air supply to the tank 1300. In the illustrated embodiment, the air supply inlet 1435 is provided by one of the openings in the fluid connector section 1434a of the connector housing 1434, through which a supply of air may be received from the air supply outlet 1124 of the body-to-tank connector 1120, wherein this air supply then flows into the tank 1300 through the drain port 1426 of the tank return tray 1425.

[0113] Each of the electrical connector sections 1434b of the tank-to-body connector 1430 then includes an electrical connector housing and a plurality of male end electrical connectors 1432 (which protrude from the housing into a recess defined by the connector housing 1434) such that the male end electrical connectors 1432 extend toward the rear of the tank 1300 when the tank cover 1400 is placed on the tank 1300. The wiring from the column 1404 of the tank cover 1400 then enters the housing and connects to the inner ends of the male end electrical connectors 1432.

[0114] The body of the humidifier 1000 is then provided with a body-to-tank connector 1120, which is arranged to be connected to the tank-to-body connector 1430 and through which water pumped from the tank 1300 is conveyed into a conduit provided within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. The body-to-tank connector 1120 is arranged substantially parallel to the direction in which the tank 1300 is to be inserted into the cavity 1105 (i.e. laterally relative to the body 1100) and points / faces towards the side opening 1107 into the cavity 1105, so that during insertion of the tank 1300 into the body 1100, the body-to-tank connector 1120 connects with the tank-to-body connector 1430 (which is provided on the tank cover 1400).

[0115] The body-to-tank connector 1120 includes a water supply inlet 1121 through which water is received from a water supply outlet 1431 (which is provided on the tank-to-body connector 1430) and is arranged to deliver water into a conduit provided within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. The body-to-tank connector 1120 also includes an electrical connector 1122 for transmitting power to the tank cover 1400 and for communicating with a control circuit (which is provided within the tank cover 1400). The electrical connector 1122 provided by the body-to-tank connector 1120 is thereby arranged to contact / engage a corresponding electrical connector 1432 (which is provided by the tank-to-body connector 1430). The body to tank connector 1120 also includes a water return outlet 1123 through which excess water is conveyed from the humidifier 1000 to the tank to body connector 1430, and the water return outlet 1123 is arranged to receive this excess water from an evaporator tray 1125 (which is contained within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000). The body to tank connector 1120 may also be arranged to receive a supply of air from the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 and convey this supply of air to the tank to body connector 1430.

[0116] Fig.23 A front view of the lower body section 1102 is shown without the water tank and with the body to water tank connector 1120 visible within the cavity 1105, Fig.24A bottom view of the body to tank connector 1120 is shown. Fig.25 A bottom cross-sectional view of a body-to-tank connector 1120 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the body-to-tank connector 1120 includes a connector bracket or support 1126 disposed proximate the top of the cavity 1105 defined by the lower body section 1102 and arranged to align with the connector housing 1434 (which is provided on the tank cover 1430) when the tank 1300 is inserted into the cavity 1105. The connector bracket 1126 includes a fluid connector section 1126a and two separate electrical connector sections 1126b, which are disposed on either side of the fluid connector section 1126a.

[0117] The fluid connector section 1126a of the connector bracket 1126 provides a water supply inlet 1121 and a water return outlet 1123. Each of the water supply inlet 1121 and the water return outlet 1123 then includes a pipe or conduit 1121a, 1123a and a stop valve 1121b, 1123b in the pipe (which is biased into a closed position by a resilient member 1121c, 1123c (such as a return / compression spring)). Each of these stop valves 1121b, 1123b is then arranged so that when the water tank 1300 is inserted into the hole 1105, the stop valve 1121b, 1123b moves into an open position against the resistance provided by the corresponding resilient member 1121c, 1123c. Thus, when the water tank 1300 is disposed within the cavity 1105 within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000, the stop valves 1121b, 1123b will both open and thereby allow water to flow through the corresponding conduits 1121a, 1123a. Then, when the water tank 1300 is removed from the cavity 1105 within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000, the resilient members 1121c, 1123c force the corresponding stop valves 1121b, 1123b into a closed position and thereby prevent water from flowing through the conduits 1121a, 1123a.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, the stop valve 1121b of the water supply inlet 1121 comprises a hollow piston or plunger having an open distal end, a closed proximal end and one or more slots (which are formed in the side wall of the piston adjacent the closed proximal end). The piston is arranged and slides within a sleeve, which is then fixedly arranged within the conduit 1121a of the water supply inlet 1121. The piston is arranged to align with and contact the water supply outlet 1431 (which is provided on the water tank to body connector 1430) when the water tank 1300 is arranged within the cavity 1105. This contact with the water supply outlet 1431 causes the piston to move against the compression spring into a position within the sleeve (at which the slot is exposed) so that water can enter the open distal end of the piston and exit through the slot and enter the conduit 1121a of the water supply inlet 1121. Then, when the water tank 1300 is removed from the cavity 1105, the compression spring forces the piston into a position within the sleeve where the groove is covered by the sleeve.

[0119] Likewise, the stop valve 1123b of the water return outlet 1123 comprises a hollow piston or plunger having an open distal end, a closed proximal end and one or more slots formed in the side wall of the piston adjacent the closed proximal end. The piston is disposed and slides within a sleeve which is then fixedly disposed within the conduit 1123a of the water return outlet 1123. The piston is disposed to contact a portion of the tank-to-body connector 1430 when the water tank 1300 is disposed within the cavity 1105. This contact with the tank-to-body connector 1430 causes the piston to move against the compression spring into a position within the sleeve where the slots are exposed so that water can enter the piston through the slots and exit through the open distal end of the piston and enter the water return inlet 1433 of the tank-to-body connector 1430. Then, when the water tank 1300 is removed from the cavity 1105, the compression spring forces the piston into a position within the sleeve where the groove is covered by the sleeve.

[0120] The fluid connector section 1126a of the body-to-tank connector 1120 may also provide an air supply outlet 1124 that receives an air supply from within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 and delivers this air supply to the tank-to-body connector 1430. In the illustrated embodiment, the air supply outlet 1124 comprises a tube or conduit 1124a (having an open outer end) that is arranged to align with an air supply inlet 1435 (which is provided on the tank-to-body connector 1430) when the tank 1300 is arranged within the cavity 1105.

[0121] The connector bracket 1126 is then provided with an interface / connection sealing element 1127, which is arranged to form a seal between the water tank assembly 1300, 1400 and the body, which prevents air from leaking into the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 (that is, from the outside of the humidifier 1000). In particular, the interface sealing element 1127 is arranged to form a seal around the interface between the water tank assembly 1300, 1400 and the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. In this first embodiment, each of the water supply inlet 1121, the water return outlet 1123 and the air supply outlet 1124 is provided on a surface of the connector bracket 1126 facing the side opening 1107 entering the cavity 1105, and the interface / connection sealing element 1127 is provided on this surface of the connector bracket 1126. The interface sealing element 1127 is thereby arranged to form a seal against the opposite rearward facing surface of the connector housing 1434 of the water tank to body connector 1430, thereby preventing air from leaking through the connectors 1430, 1120 into the water tank 1300 or the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. In the illustrated embodiment, the connection sealing element 1127 is provided by a gasket formed of an elastic material (such as rubber) and is arranged to surround each of the water supply inlet 1121, the water return outlet 1123 and the air supply outlet 1124.

[0122] Each electrical connector section 1126b of the body-to-tank connector 1120 then includes an electrical connector body 1126c and a plurality of female end electrical connectors 1126d (which are accessible within the connector body 1126c) such that the female end electrical connectors 1126d extend toward the side opening 1107 entering the cavity 1105. Wiring from the body of the humidifier 1000 then enters through the rear of the connector body 1126c and connects to the interior ends of the female end electrical connectors 1126d.

[0123] The connector bracket 1126 of the body-to-tank connector 1120 is movably mounted within the cavity 1105 defined by the lower body section 1102. In particular, the connector bracket 1126 is arranged to move in a direction parallel to the direction in which the water tank 1300 is inserted into the cavity 1105 (i.e. by moving / sliding the water tank 1300 laterally relative to the body 1100). The body-to-tank connector 1120 then also includes a resilient member 1128, such as a return / compression spring, which is arranged to bias the connector bracket 1126 toward the side opening 1107 into the cavity 1105. The connector bracket 1126 is thereby arranged so that, when the water tank 1300 is inserted into the cavity 1105, the water tank cover 1400 (which is provided on the water tank 1300) contacts the connector bracket 1126 and causes the connector bracket 1126 to move away from the side opening 1105 against the resistance provided by the resilient member 1128. The biasing of the connector bracket 1126 towards the side opening 1107 into the cavity 1105 ensures that the respective connectors better contact / adequately engage each other, and also ensures that the interface sealing element 1127 is compressed between the connectors when the water tank 1300 is arranged in the cavity 1105. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector bracket 1126 is provided with a pair of tracks 1129 that engage corresponding channels / tracks 1130 provided on the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000, wherein the tracks 1129 are arranged to slide over the channels / tracks 1130.

[0124] The connector bracket 1126 is also provided with a port 1131 through which fluid is passed to or from each of the water supply inlet 1121, the water return outlet 1123, and the air supply outlet 1124. The port 1131 of each of the water supply inlet 1121, the water return outlet 1123, and the air supply outlet 1124 is provided with a hose attachment member or hose barb through which a corresponding flexible pipe or hose can be connected to the connector bracket 1126. The water supply hose 1132 is then attached between the port of the water supply inlet 1121 and other conduits (which are disposed within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 and deliver water to the evaporator assembly 1200), the water return hose 1133 is attached between the port of the water return outlet 1123 and the port of the evaporator tray 1125 (which is housed within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000), and the air supply hose 1134 is connected between the port of the air supply outlet 1124 and the air supply exhaust port 1135 (which is disposed within the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000). For example, each of these hoses 1132, 1133, 1134 may include a flexible material, such as silicone. Fig.26 A rear perspective view showing the evaporator tray and the hoses 1132, 1133, 1134 connected to the body to water tank connector, Fig. 27 A front perspective view is shown.

[0125] The upper body section 1101 of the humidifier 1000 contains / accommodates the air flow generator and the evaporator assembly 1200, and provides a second portion of the water supply conduit of the water supply system. The upper body section 1101 is thus provided with an air inlet 1112, through which the air flow generator can draw air flow from outside the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000, and an air outlet 1113, through which the air flow generated by the air flow generator is discharged from the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. The upper body section 1101 is also thus provided with a side door, which can be opened to allow the evaporator assembly 1200 to be inserted / pushed into the interior of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 and to be withdrawn / pulled out therefrom (i.e. for cleaning). The upper body section 1101 also includes an evaporator tray 1125, which is arranged to support the evaporator assembly 1200 so that the evaporator assembly 1200 is arranged within the air flowing through the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. In addition, the evaporator tray 1125 is arranged to support the evaporator assembly 1200 so that water pumped from the water tank 1300 is supplied to the evaporator assembly 1200, and so that any excess water (which falls / drips from the evaporator assembly 1200) is captured by the evaporator tray 1125 and conveyed back to the water tank 1300. The nozzle 1600 is then mounted to the upper end of the upper body section 1101 and is arranged to receive the air flow discharged from the air outlet 1113 of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000.

[0126] The upper body section 1101 of the humidifier 1000 is also arranged to support a removable filter assembly 1140a, 1140b upstream of the air inlet 1112 so that the air flow drawn through the air inlet 1112 by the air flow generator is filtered before entering the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. The upper body section 1101 is then also provided with a mechanism for retaining and releasing the filter assembly 1140a, 1140b from the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper body section 1101 of the humidifier 1000 includes an upper body support 1150. The air flow generator is then provided by a motor driven impeller 1110, which is housed within an impeller housing 1151, which is supported proximate an upper end of the upper body support 1150. The upper body support 1150 then defines an evaporator cavity 1152 below the impeller housing 1151 and supports an evaporator tray 1125 below the evaporator cavity 1152, within which the evaporator assembly 1200 may be disposed, the upper body support containing conduits that deliver water to the evaporator assembly 1200 within the evaporator cavity 1152. The upper body section 1101 also includes a pair of grilles or grates 1153a, 1153b, which are arranged on the upper body support 1150 so that they surround the evaporator cavity 1152 and which provide an air inlet 1112 into the upper body section 1101, and a pair of filter assemblies 1140a, 1140b, which are releasably retained on the upper body support 1150, above the grilles 1153a, 1153b. Thus, Fig.29 A perspective view of the humidifier 1000 is shown with one filter assembly 1140a removed and another filter assembly 1140b installed on the distal side of the upper body section 1101 .

[0128] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper body bracket 1150 includes a lower annular flange 1154 (which is located at the lower end of the upper body bracket 1150), an upper annular flange 1155 (which is located near / adjacent to the upper end of the upper body bracket 1150), and a pair of diametrically opposed side sections 1156a, 1156b (which extend vertically between the lower annular flange 1154 and the upper annular flange 1155). Both the lower annular flange 1154 and the upper annular flange 1155 extend radially / vertically away from the central axis of the upper body chassis 1150. The outer edge of the lower annular flange 1154 is then generally flush with the peripheral / exterior surface of the lower body section 1102, while the outer edge of the upper annular flange 1155 is generally flush with the outer surface of the base / neck 1601 of the nozzle 1600 (which is connected to the upper end of the upper body bracket 1150).

[0129] The upper body bracket 1150 also includes a fan mount / seat section 1157 (which is provided at the upper end of the upper body bracket 1150) that is arranged to support the impeller housing 1151 within the upper body section 1101. In the illustrated embodiment, the fan mount / seat section 1157 of the upper body bracket 1150 is generally tubular in shape, with an inlet bell mouth 1158 at the lower end and a flat duct outlet 1159 at the upper end. The upper retaining ring 1160 is then positioned at the upper end of the tubular fan mount section 1157, while the lower retaining ring 1161 is positioned close to / adjacent to the lower end of the tubular fan mount / seat section 1157. The impeller housing 1151 is then supported within the tubular fan mount / seat section 1157 by a first set of tension springs 1162 (which are connected between the impeller housing 1151 and the upper retaining ring 1160) and a second set of tension springs 1163 (which are connected between the impeller housing 1151 and the lower retaining ring 1161).

[0130] In the illustrated embodiment, the impeller housing 1151 extends around the motor driven impeller 1110 and has a first end (which defines an air inlet 1164 of the impeller housing 1151) and a second end (which is located opposite the first end and defines an air outlet 1113 of the impeller housing 1151). The impeller housing 1151 is aligned within the fan mount section 1157 so that the longitudinal axis of the impeller housing 1151 is co-linear with the longitudinal axis (Z) of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000, and so that the air inlet 1164 of the impeller housing 1151 is located below the air outlet 1113. The impeller housing 1151 includes a generally frustoconical lower wall and a generally frustoconical upper wall. A generally annular air inlet member is then connected to the bottom of the lower wall of the impeller housing 1151 for directing the incoming air flow into the impeller housing 1151. The air inlet 1164 of the impeller housing 1151 is thereby defined by an annular air intake member disposed at the open bottom end of the impeller housing 1151, wherein this air inlet 1164 of the impeller housing 1151 is arranged above and aligned with the inlet bell-shaped mouth 1158 disposed at the lower end of the fan mounting section 1157.

[0131] In the illustrated embodiment, the impeller 1110 is in the form of a mixed flow impeller and includes a generally conical hub, a plurality of impeller blades connected to the hub, and a generally frustoconical shroud (which is connected to the blades so as to surround the hub and the blades). The impeller 1110 is connected to a rotating shaft 1167, which extends outwardly from a motor 1168, which is housed in a motor housing 1169 disposed within the impeller housing 1151. In the illustrated embodiment, the motor is a brushless DC motor having a speed that can be varied by a control circuit in response to a control input provided by a user.

[0132] The motor housing 1169 includes a generally frustoconical lower portion that supports the motor 1168, and a generally frustoconical upper portion connected to the lower portion. The shaft 1167 protrudes through a hole formed in the lower portion of the motor housing 1169 to allow the impeller 1110 to be connected to the shaft 1167. The upper portion of the motor housing 1168 also includes an annular diffuser, which is in the form of curved blades that protrude from the outer surface of the upper portion of the motor housing 1169. The wall of the impeller housing 1151 surrounds the motor housing 1169 and is spaced apart from the motor housing so that the impeller housing 1151 and the motor housing 1169 define an annular air flow path between them, which extends through the impeller housing 1151. The air outlet 1113 of the impeller housing 1151 is then defined by the upper portion of the motor housing 1169 and the upper wall of the impeller housing 1151, and the air flow generated by the motor driving the impeller 1110 is discharged through the air outlet 1113.

[0133] A flexible sealing member 1170 is then attached between the impeller housing 1151 and the upper end of the fan mount section 1157 of the upper body bracket 1150. The flexible sealing member 1170 prevents air from traveling around the outer surface of the impeller housing 1151. The sealing member 1170 preferably comprises an annular lip seal, which is preferably made of rubber.

[0134] The evaporator tray 125 is then mounted within the open center / central aperture of the lower annular flange 1154. The evaporator cavity 1152 is then defined by the space between the evaporator tray 1125 and the lower end of the fan mount section 1157. Fig.28 1 is a front cross-sectional view of the evaporator tray 1125. In the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator tray 1125 includes a generally circular trough section 1125a that slopes downward toward a drain 1125b through which water can flow out of the evaporator tray 1125 and back to the water tank 1300 through a water return hose 1133. The evaporator tray 1125 is also provided with an arcuate ridge 1125c that projects upwardly from the inclined surface of the trough section 1125a, which provides an evaporator seat on which the evaporator assembly 1200 can sit when the evaporator assembly is arranged within the evaporator cavity 1152. The annular ridge 1125c is thus arranged so that its upper surface is flat and is generally horizontal when the base 1103 of the humidifier 1000 is horizontal. The arcuate ridge is also arranged so that the gap between the ends of the arcuate ridge is adjacent the lower end of the inclined trough section of the drain.

[0135] The evaporator tray 1125 also includes an evaporator tray water level sensor 1171, which is arranged to detect when the water level within the evaporator tray 1125 is above a predetermined maximum water level, which will thereby indicate that the drain 1125b is at least partially blocked. In particular, the evaporator tray 1125 is provided with a float housing 1172, which is arranged at the center of the evaporator tray 1125, within the arcuate ridge 1125c. The evaporator tray float 1173 is then arranged below the float housing 1172, adjacent to the surface of the trough section 1125a. The evaporator tray float 1173 is then provided with a magnet 1174, which is mounted to the evaporator tray float 1173 and is arranged so that the magnet 1174 is arranged adjacent to a magnetic sensor (not shown), such as a unipolar Hall effect sensor, which detects the position of the magnet 1174 relative to the magnetic sensor and thereby detects a change in the position of the evaporator tray float 1173. The evaporator tray water level sensor 1171 is then arranged so that movement of the evaporator tray float 1173 away from the surface of the sump section 1125a causes the magnet 1174 to move across / past the magnetic sensor 1420 in the direction of the magnetic axis, rather than toward or away from the magnetic sensor, so that the magnetic sensor detects a change in the polarity of the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1174.

[0136] The conduit (which delivers water to the evaporator assembly 1200) then includes a water supply nozzle 1176 that protrudes into the evaporator cavity 1152, directly above the evaporator tray 1125, so that water can be supplied to the evaporator assembly 1200 when the evaporator assembly is arranged in the evaporator cavity 1152. In the illustrated embodiment, the conduit in the upper body section 1101 delivers water from the water supply hose 1132 to the water supply nozzle 1176. The water supply nozzle 1176 then protrudes into the evaporator cavity 1152 so that it is arranged above the upper end of the inclined trough section 1125a, at a position about two-thirds of the height of the evaporator cavity 1152, wherein the outlet of the water supply nozzle 1176 faces downwardly toward the evaporator tray 1125 so that water can be poured from the water supply nozzle 1176.

[0137] As described above, the upper body section 1101 of the humidifier 1000 further comprises a pair of grilles or grates 1153a, 1153b, which are arranged on opposite open sides of the upper body support 1150. Each grille 1153a, 1153b is provided with an array of holes, which serves as an air inlet 1112 of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. In particular, the first grille 1153a is mounted on the first open side of the upper body support 1150, while the second grille 1153b is mounted on the second open side of the upper body support 1150. The first grille 1153a has the shape of a tubular plate (i.e., has an arcuate cross-section), is provided with an array of holes, and is arranged to extend between the upper annular flange 1155 and the lower annular flange 1154 and between the first and second side sections 1156a, 1156b of the upper body support 1150. The second grid 1153b then also has the shape of a tubular plate (i.e. having an arcuate cross-section), which is provided with an array of holes and is arranged to extend between the upper annular flange 1155 and the lower annular flange 1154 and between the first and second side sections 1156a, 1156b of the upper body support 1150.

[0138] The first grille 1153a is attached to the upper body support 1150 by one or more hinges (which allow the first grille 1153a to rotate / swing away from the first open side of the upper body support 1150). The first grille 1153a is thereby arranged to provide a door into the evaporator cavity 1152, which can be opened to allow the evaporator assembly 1200 to be inserted into and removed from the evaporator cavity 1152 of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 (i.e., for cleaning). The second grille 1153b is then stationarily fixed on the second open side of the upper body support 1150, and thereby defines the rear of the evaporator cavity 1152. The first open side of the upper body support 1150 (which can be opened and closed by the hinged first grille 1153a) thereby defines the front of the evaporator cavity 1152. Fig.30 Thereby, a perspective view of the humidifier 1000 is shown, wherein the hinged first grill 1153a is open and the evaporator assembly 1200 is removed from the humidifier 1000 .

[0139] In the illustrated embodiment, the side sections 1156a, 1156b of the upper body support 1150 each support one of a pair of filter retaining assemblies 1177a, 1177b that cooperate to releasably retain a pair of filter assemblies 1140a, 1140b on the upper body support 1150, on the grilles 1153a, 1153b. In particular, the first retaining assembly 1177a is supported within the first side section 1156a of the upper body support 1150, and the second retaining assembly 1177b is supported within the second side section 1156b of the upper body support 1150. The first retaining assembly 1177a is then configured to releasably engage both the first filter assembly 1140a (at a first edge adjacent to the first filter assembly 1140a) and the second filter assembly 1140b (at a first edge adjacent to the second filter assembly 1140b). The second retaining assembly 1177b is then configured to releasably engage both the first filter assembly 1140a (at the second edge adjacent to the first filter assembly 1140a) and the second filter assembly 1140b (at the second edge adjacent to the second filter assembly 1140b). The first edge of the first filter assembly 1140a is opposite to the second edge of the first filter assembly 1140a, and the first edge of the second filter assembly 1140b is opposite to the second edge of the second filter assembly 1140b. The filter retaining assemblies 1177a, 1177b and the filter assembly 1140 are described in GB1720055.1 and GB1720057.7, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0140] Fig.31A side cross-sectional view of a filter assembly is shown, which is suitable for use with the humidifier 1000. In the illustrated embodiment, each filter assembly 1140 includes a filter frame 1141 that supports one or more filter media 1142. Each filter frame 1141 generally has a semi-cylindrical shape with two straight sides that are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filter frame 1141, and two curved ends that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter frame 1141. The one or more filter media 1142 are arranged to cover the surface area defined by the filter frame 1141. Each filter assembly 1140 also includes a flexible filter seal 1143 that is provided around the entire inner periphery of the filter frame 1141 for engaging with the upper body support 1150 to prevent air from flowing around the edges of the filter assembly 1140 to the grilles 1153a, 1153b (which provide the air inlet 1112 of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000). The flexible filter seal 1143 preferably comprises lower and upper curved seal sections, generally in the form of an arcuate wiper or lip seal, wherein each end of the lower seal section is connected to a respective end of the upper seal section by two straight seal sections (each of which generally takes the form of a wiper or lip seal). The upper and lower curved seal sections are thereby arranged to contact those portions of the upper body support 1150 above and below the grilles 1153a, 1153b, while the straight seal sections are arranged to contact one or the other of the side sections 1156a, 1156b of the upper body support 1150. Preferably, the filter frame 1141 is provided with a recess (not shown) extending around the entire inner periphery of the filter frame 1141 and arranged to receive and support the flexible filter seal 1143.

[0141] One or more filter media 1142 are then supported on the outer convex surface of the filter frame 1141. In the illustrated embodiment, each filter assembly 1140 includes a chemical filter media layer 1142a, a particulate filter media layer 1142b upstream of the chemical filter media layer 1142a, and an outer wire mesh layer 1142c upstream of the particulate filter media layer 1142b.

[0142] A perforated cover 1144 is then releasably attached to each filter frame 1141 so as to cover the filter media 1142 when positioned on the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 . Fig.32Thus, a rear perspective view of the filter assembly 1140 is shown, wherein the perforated cover 1181 is removed from the filter frame 1178. Each perforated cover 1144 includes an array of holes that, when in use, serve as an air inlet 1145 for the filter assembly 1140. Alternatively, the air inlet 1145 of the cover 1144 may include one or more grilles or meshes that are mounted within a window of the cover 1144. It will be apparent that alternative modes of air inlet arrays are contemplated within the scope of the present invention. The cover 1144 protects the filter media 1142 from damage, such as during transportation, and also provides an aesthetically pleasing outer surface for the filter assembly 1140 that maintains the overall appearance of the humidifier 1000. Since the cover 1144 defines the air inlet 1145 for the filter assembly 1140, the array of holes is sized to prevent larger particles from entering the filter assembly 1140 and clogging or otherwise damaging the filter media 1142. In the illustrated embodiment, the perforated cover 1144 is generally semi-cylindrical in shape and is arranged to cover an area extending between the outer edge of the upper annular flange 1155 and the outer edge of the lower annular flange 1154 and between the outer surfaces of the first and second side sections 1156a, 1156b of the upper body support 1150.

[0143] In particular, the evaporator assembly 1200 includes a porous material device 1201 that absorbs water supplied to it by a water supply system and provides a large surface area to allow water to evaporate when air flows through the evaporator assembly 1200, thereby introducing water vapor into the air flow. The evaporator assembly 1200 then also includes an evaporator frame that supports the porous material device 1201, wherein the evaporator frame includes a first end cap (which covers the first end of the porous material device 1201), a second end cap (which covers the second end of the porous material device 1201), and at least one grill (which extends between the first end cap and the second end cap). The at least one grill is connected to both the first end cap and the second end cap and thereby maintains the overall structure of the evaporator frame without restricting the air flow through the evaporator assembly.

[0144] Fig.33 A top view of an evaporator assembly 1200 is shown, which is suitable for use with the humidifier 1000 in this first embodiment. Fig.34 A front cross-sectional view of the evaporator assembly 1200 is shown. Fig.35An exploded view of an evaporator assembly 1200 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator frame includes a generally tubular outer grid 1202 extending over the outer surface of the tubular means of porous material 1201a, 1201b and a generally tubular inner grid 1203a, 1203b extending over the inner surface of the tubular means of porous material 1201a, 1201b. The evaporator frame then also includes a pair of annular end caps 1204a, 1204b covering the exposed ends of the tubular means of porous material 1201a, 1201b.

[0145] In the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator frame is provided with an intermediate plate 1205 which projects radially inwardly from the inner surface of the outer grille 1202 at a position midway along the length / height of the outer grille 1202. This intermediate plate 1205 comprises a double-sided / two-sided annular groove or tray. The tubular arrangement of porous material 1201a, 1201b then comprises two separate porous material tubes, wherein a first porous material tube 1201a is arranged between a first surface of the intermediate plate 1205 and a first end cap 1204a of the evaporator assembly 1200, and a second porous material tube 1201b is arranged between an opposite second surface of the intermediate plate 1205 and a second end cap 1204b of the evaporator assembly 1200. The adjacent proximal ends of the first and second porous material tubes 1201a, 1201b are then each arranged in a groove / tray (which is provided by the corresponding side of the intermediate plate 1205), while the distal ends of the first and second porous material tubes 1201a, 1201b are arranged in an annular groove / tray (which is provided by the corresponding end caps 1204a, 1204b).

[0146] The evaporator frame is also provided with two separate inlet funnels 1206a, 1206b, each of which protrudes from the outer surface of the evaporator frame and is arranged to receive and deliver water from the exterior of the evaporator assembly 1200 and deliver the water to the respective surfaces of the two-sided annular trough / tray 1205. In particular, the first inlet funnel 1206a of the evaporator frame is arranged to deliver water through a first inlet 1207a (which is provided in the outer surface of the evaporator frame) and to the first surface of the two-sided annular trough / tray (which is provided by the intermediate plate 1205), and the second inlet funnel 1206b of the evaporator frame is arranged to deliver water through a second inlet 1207b (which is provided in the outer surface of the evaporator frame) and to the second surface of the two-sided annular trough / tray (which is provided by the intermediate plate 1205). These inlet funnels 1206a, 1206b are arranged diametrically opposite on the evaporator assembly 1200 and face in opposite directions so that the assembly 1200 has two-fold rotational symmetry and can thus be inserted into the evaporator cavity 1152 with either of the two end caps 1204a, 1204b at the top.

[0147] In the illustrated embodiment, the outer grille 1202, the inner grille 1203a, 1203b, the double-sided groove / tray 1205 and the end covers 1204a, 1204b are arranged so that water overflows outward (i.e., radially outward relative to the evaporator assembly 1200) from the upward facing surface of the double-sided annular groove / tray (which is provided by the intermediate plate 1205), and overflows inward (i.e., radially inward relative to the evaporator assembly 1200) from the annular groove / tray provided by the lowermost end cover 1204. Water overflowing the upwardly facing surface of the double-sided trough / tray (which is provided by the middle plate 1205) thereby flows to the outside of the outer grille 1202 (i.e., through the holes in the outer grille 1202), travels downward along the outside of the outer grille 1202, returns to the interior of the evaporator assembly 1200 (i.e., through the holes in the outer grille 1202) under the double-sided trough / tray (which is provided by the middle plate 1205), and then onto the trough / tray provided by the lowermost end cap 1204. This directing of the flow of water is achieved by arranging the inner wall of the middle plate 1205 so as to be higher than the relative holes of the outer grille 1202, and by arranging the inner wall of the trough provided by the end caps 1204a, 1204b so that it is lower than the relative holes in the inner grille 1203.

[0148] Regardless of the orientation of the evaporator assembly 1200, to ensure that the upwardly facing inlet funnel 1206a is precisely located below the water supply nozzle 1176 when the evaporator assembly 1200 is arranged within the evaporator cavity 1152, the evaporator assembly 1200 is provided with two separately aligned channels / slots 1208a, 1208b, which are arranged so that one of these alignment channels 1208a, 1208b cooperates with an alignment rib 1182 that protrudes from the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 and into the evaporator cavity 1152. In the illustrated embodiment, the alignment rib 1182 protrudes downwardly into the evaporator cavity 1152 from the top of the evaporator cavity 1152 at a location near the rear of the evaporator cavity 1152. This alignment rib 1182 is straight and extends in a direction that bisects the evaporator cavity 1152. A first alignment channel 1208a is then provided on the first end cap 1204a, while a second alignment channel 1208b is provided on the second end cap 1204b. The first and second alignment channels 1208a, 1208b are vertically aligned and extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction bisecting the two inlet funnels 1206a, 1206b. Both the first and second alignment channels 1208a, 1208b taper outwardly from the inner end to a mouth through which the alignment rib 1182 can enter (i.e., slide into) the alignment channels 1208a, 1208b. The mouth is thus larger than the inner end of the alignment channel 1208a, 1208b, thereby making it easier to align the alignment rib 1182 and the mouth of the alignment channel 1208a, 1208b, wherein the taper of the alignment channel 1208a, 1208b then guides the alignment rib 1182 toward the inner end and to a position in which the upwardly facing portion of the inlet funnel 1206a, 1206b provided in the evaporator assembly 1200 is arranged below and vertically aligned with the water supply nozzle 1176. Therefore, water pouring or dripping from the water supply nozzle 1176 falls into the upwardly facing inlet funnel 1206a, 1206b and onto the upwardly facing surface of the double-sided annular groove / tray (which is provided by the intermediate plate 1205).

[0149] In the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator frame 1202 is also provided with a tab 1209 that projects radially outward from the outer surface of the evaporator frame 1202 and which can thereby be grasped by a user to assist in sliding the evaporator assembly 1200 out of the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. In particular, the tab 1209 projects radially outward from a position diametrically opposite to the first and second alignment channels 1208a, 1208b (which are formed in the respective first and second end caps 1204a, 1204b). Thus, when one of the alignment channels 1208a, 1208b is engaged by the alignment rib 1182 (which is arranged toward the rear of the evaporator cavity 1152), the tab 1209 projects outward toward the front of the evaporator cavity 1152.

[0150] In the illustrated embodiment, the end caps 1204a, 1204b and the intermediate plate 1205 are each provided with holes 1209a, 1209b, 1209c that allow water to flow out of the associated annular groove / tray. When the evaporator assembly 1200 is not receiving a supply of water, these holes 1209a, 1209b, 1209c thereby allow water to flow out of the evaporator assembly 1200 so that the evaporator assembly 1200 can dry out when the humidifier 1000 is not in use. Preferably, the evaporator assembly 1200 is arranged so that the holes 1209c (which are provided in the intermediate plate 1205) are generally diametrically opposed to the holes 1209a, 1209b (which are provided in the end caps 124a, 1204b). Positioning the apertures 1209a, 1209b, 1209c in this manner ensures that water supplied to the evaporator assembly 1200 does not simply flow directly out of the evaporator assembly 1200 through the apertures 1209a, 1209b, 1209c but rather flows along a circuitous path through the evaporator assembly 1200.

[0151] As described above, the water tank 1300 is arranged to allow the evaporator assembly 1200 to be inserted and fully contained within the water tank 1300 when the water tank cover 1400 is held over the water tank opening 1312. This arrangement allows the evaporator assembly 1200 to be located within the water tank 1300 when the water tank 1300 is inserted into the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 so that the evaporator assembly 1200 can be immersed in a descaling solution while the humidifier 1000 performs a self-contained cleaning cycle. This self-contained cleaning cycle can thereby simultaneously clean both the water supply system (which includes both the water tank 1300 and the pump system) and the evaporator assembly 1200. The water tank opening 1312 of the water tank 1300 is thereby configured to allow the evaporator assembly 1200 to pass through / fit into the water tank opening 1312. In particular, the size of the water tank opening 1312 exceeds the footprint of the evaporator assembly 1200. The interior volume of the water tank 1300 then also has a height / depth that is greater than the height of the evaporator assembly 1200. In addition, the evaporator assembly 1200 is configured to allow a column 1404 (which protrudes from the lower surface of the water tank cover 1400) to be installed within the hollow center of the evaporator assembly 1200 so that the water tank cover 1400 can be located on the water tank 1300 when the evaporator assembly 1200 is aligned with the water tank opening 1312.

[0152] Fig.13 Thus, a perspective view of the water tank 1300 is shown, wherein the evaporator assembly 1200 is located within the water tank 1300, and Fig.14 A side cross-sectional view of the water tank 1300 is shown with the evaporator assembly 1200 positioned within the water tank 1300 and the water tank cover 1400 covering the opening 1312. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank opening 1312 is circular and thus has a width / diameter (W1) that is greater than the maximum width (W2) of the evaporator assembly 1200. The interior volume of the water tank 1300 then also has a height / depth (H1) that is greater than the height (H2) of the evaporator assembly 1200. Furthermore, the evaporator assembly 1200 is tubular and thus has an interior diameter (D1) that is greater than the maximum width (W3) of the post 1404 (which protrudes from the lower surface of the water tank cover 1400). In the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator assembly 1200 has a height (H2) of at least 100 mm (i.e., the distance between the outer surfaces of the first and second end caps 1204a, 1204b) and a maximum width (W2) of at least 150 mm (i.e., the distance between the outer edges of the first and second inlet funnels 1206a, 1206b).

[0153] Preferably, the evaporator assembly 1200 includes a multi-layer porous material device 1201. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the first and second porous material tubes 1201a, 1201b each include a single porous material piece 1201 (which is formed into a spiral or roll shape) so as to have multiple overlapping layers. However, in alternative embodiments, the first and second porous material tubes 1201a, 1201b may each include a plurality of independent porous material pieces 1201 (which are formed as independent tubes arranged concentrically).

[0154] Fig.36 A porous material is schematically shown that is suitable for use in an evaporator assembly 1200. In the illustrated embodiment, the porous material 1201 of the evaporator assembly 1200 includes spacer fabric, sometimes referred to as air mesh or 3D fabric. In this regard, the spacer fabric includes a front layer 1201c, which is connected to a back layer 1201d by a spacer layer 1201e. The spacer layer 1201e generally includes a monofilament yarn having a coil or line that is generally perpendicular to the front and back layers 1201c, 1201d so that the front and back layers 1201c, 1201d are spaced from each other. The front and back layers 1201c, 1201d then each include a mesh or net that defines an array of holes or perforations through which air can flow through the spacer fabric. In order to provide sufficient air permeability for air flowing through the evaporator cavity 1152, the spacer fabric preferably has an open area of ​​at least 75%, more preferably at least 80% and even more preferably at least 85%. In the illustrated embodiment, the porous material 1201 has a thickness of about 2.5 mm. Each multi-layer porous material device 1201 thus comprises five overlapping porous material layers 1201, which have a total thickness of about 12.5 mm. However, the porous material 1201 may have a thickness of 1.5 mm-3.5 mm, and more preferably from 2 mm-3 mm. Each multi-layer porous material device 1201 may also comprise any one of from 2 to 7 overlapping porous material layers 1201.

[0155] The porous material 1201 of the evaporator assembly 1200 also includes silver as an antimicrobial agent. In particular, the spacer fibers include yarns that are coated and / or impregnated with silver. In a preferred embodiment, only the front and / or rear layers 1201c, 1201d of the spacer fibers include yarns coated and / or impregnated with silver. In a specific embodiment, the spacer fibers are provided as a sheet, and the strands of yarn coated and / or impregnated with silver are arranged in the front and / or rear layers 1201c, 1201d of the spacer fibers, wherein each strand extends along an edge parallel to the sheet. The strands of the yarn are preferably spaced apart from each other and distributed across the front and / or rear layers 1201c, 1201d of the spacer fibers.

[0156] For example, the yarn may comprise commercially available from Noble Biomaterials, Inc. Silver fiber yarns. These silver fiber yarns include nylon fibers having a layer of silver bonded to their surface and may thus include from 70% to 95% nylon and between 5% and 30% silver. Preferably, however, the silver fiber yarns include from 75-92% nylon and between 8 and 25% silver. The spacer layer 1201e (the front and / or rear layers 1201c, 1201d connecting and spacing the spacer fibers) may then include polyester thread or yarn.

[0157] In use, the pump 1403 (provided by the water tank cover 1400) pumps water from the water tank 1300 through the outlet water supply conduit 1407. Within the outlet water supply conduit 1407, the water from the water tank 1300 is then disinfected by the UV system before the water exits the water tank cover 1400, flows out through the water tank to body connector 1430 into the water supply inlet 1121 of the body to water tank connector 1120. The water then exits the body to water tank connector 1120 into the water supply hose 1132 and through the conduit of the upper body section 1101. The water then flows out through the water supply nozzle 1176 and onto one of the inlet funnels 1206 of the evaporator assembly 1200, which delivers the water into the corresponding annular groove / tray (which is provided by the middle plate 1205 of the evaporator assembly 1200). The annular groove / tray 1205 thus provides a reservoir for water received from a water supply system, wherein the water contained within the annular groove / tray 1205 is then drawn upward through the porous material 1201a (which is disposed within the groove / tray provided by the intermediate plate 1205). The water then also flows downward from the intermediate plate 1205 onto the porous material 1201b (which is disposed within the groove / tray provided by the bottom end cap 1204b). The impeller 1110 generates an air flow through the impeller housing 1151 through the rotation of the motor 1168. This air flow draws air through the filter assembly 1140 (which is mounted above the air inlet 1112) and through the apertures of the evaporator assembly 1200 into the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000. As the air flow passes through the porous materials 1201a, 1201b, water absorbed by the porous materials 1201a, 1201b of the evaporator assembly 1200 then evaporates into the air flow, thereby introducing water vapor into the air flow. The humidified air flow then passes through the impeller housing 1151 and exits the body 1100 of the humidifier 1000 through the exhaust port / opening 1113 (which is provided at the upper end of the upper body section 1101) and enters the nozzle 1600.

[0158] The nozzle 1600 is mounted on the upper end of the body 1100, above the exhaust port 1113 through which the primary air flow exits the body 1100. In particular, the nozzle 1600 comprises a neck / base 1601 connected to the upper end of the body 1100 and having an open lower end which provides an air inlet 1602 for receiving the humidified air flow from the body 1100. The outer surface of the base 1601 of the nozzle 1600 is then substantially flush with the outer edge of the upper annular flange 1155 of the upper body support 1150. The base 1601 of the nozzle 1600 thus comprises a housing which covers / surrounds any components of the humidifier 1000 provided on the uppermost surface of the body 1100 (which in this embodiment is provided by the upper surface of the upper annular flange 1155).

[0159] In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical control circuits are mounted on the upper surface of the upper annular flange (which extends radially away from the upper end of the upper body section). These control circuits 1111 are thereby housed within the base 1601 of the nozzle 1600. In addition, an electronic display 1115 is also mounted on the upper annular flange 1155 of the upper body section 1101 and thereby housed within the base 1601 of the nozzle 1600, wherein the display 1115 is visible through an opening or at least partially transparent window provided in the base 1601 of the nozzle 1600. Optionally, one or more additional electrical components may be mounted on the upper surface of the upper annular flange 1155 and thereby housed within the base 1601 of the nozzle 1600. For example, these additional electrical components may be one or more wireless communication modules, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth technology, etc., and one or more sensors, such as humidity sensors, infrared sensors, dust sensors, etc., and any associated electronic devices. Any such additional electrical components would then also be connected to the one or more control circuits 1111 .

[0160] The nozzle 1600 then also includes a nozzle body 1603 having one or more air outlets 1604 through which the humidified air flow is emitted from the nozzle 1600 and thereby from the humidifier 1000. In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle 1600 has an elongated annular shape, commonly referred to as a stadium or discorectangle, and defines a correspondingly shaped aperture 1605 having a height (measured in a direction extending from an upper end of the nozzle 1600 to a lower end of the nozzle 1600) greater than its width (measured in a direction extending between the side walls of the nozzle 1600) and a central axis (X). The nozzle body 1603 thus includes two parallel straight side sections (each adjacent a respective elongated side of the aperture 1605), an upper curved section connecting the upper ends of the straight sections, and a lower curved section connecting the lower ends of the straight sections. The nozzle body 1603 then has a pair of air outlets 1604 , each located on a respective elongated side of the nozzle body 1603 , at the front of the nozzle body 1603 .

[0161] Fig.37 and Fig.38 is an external view of the second embodiment of the humidifier 2000. Fig.37 A front view of a humidifier 2000 is shown, Fig.38 A side view of a humidifier 2000 is shown. The humidifier 2000 comprises a body or support 2100 containing an air flow generator arranged to generate an air flow through the humidifier 2000; a moisture or water vapor source 2200 arranged to introduce water vapor into the air flow; a water supply system arranged to provide water to the moisture source and separable from the body 2100; and a nozzle 2600 mounted on the body 2100 and arranged to emit the air flow from the humidifier 2000.

[0162] Fig.39 A side cross-sectional view through the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the moisture source includes an evaporator assembly or evaporator wick 2200 that is disposed within the air flow through the humidifier 2000. In this second embodiment, the evaporator assembly 2200 includes a porous material device 2201 that absorbs water supplied to it by a water supply system and provides a large surface area to allow water to evaporate as the air flow passes through the evaporator assembly 2200, thereby introducing water vapor into the air flow.

[0163] The water supply system then comprises a water tank assembly having a removable / detachable connection to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, and a water supply conduit 2407 arranged to deliver water to the evaporator assembly 2200. The water tank assembly comprises a water tank 2300 and a water pump 2403 arranged to be arranged within the water tank 2300 and to deliver water from the water tank 2300 to the evaporator assembly 2200 via the water supply conduit 2407. In particular, the water tank 2300 has a water tank opening / aperture 2312 through which the water tank 2300 can be filled with water, and a removable water tank cover or covering 2400 arranged to be mounted over the water tank opening 2312 and thereby occlude the water tank opening 1312, wherein the water pump 2403 is disposed in the removable water tank cover 1400. In this second embodiment, the entire water supply conduit 2407 is arranged within the water tank 2300. The water supply conduit 2407 can thus be considered as a part of the water tank assembly.

[0164] Fig.40 A perspective view of a humidifier 2000 is shown, wherein the water tank assembly is detachable from the body 2100. In this second embodiment, the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 comprises a housing 2101 which houses an air flow generator and a filter assembly 2140 (which is arranged upstream of the air flow generator). The nozzle 2600 is then mounted on the body 2100 downstream of the air flow generator and the filter assembly 2140. The housing 1201 then also provides an opening 2102 through which the evaporator assembly 220 can be arranged in the body 2100, wherein the evaporator assembly 2200 is downstream of the filter assembly 2140 and upstream relative to the air flow generator, so that the evaporator assembly 2200 is arranged in the air flow passing through the body 2100. In contrast to the first embodiment, the humidifier 2000 in the second embodiment is arranged so that in use, the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 is located on top of the water tank assembly. The water tank assembly is thereby connected to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 by lowering the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 onto the water tank assembly until the lower surface of the housing 2101 sits above the upper surface of the water tank assembly. The water tank assembly is then separated / detached from the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 by lifting the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 away from the upper surface of the water tank assembly. In addition, instead of the evaporator assembly 2200 being supported by the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, in the second embodiment, the evaporator assembly 2200 is supported by the water tank assembly on the upper surface of the water tank assembly, and thus the evaporator assembly 2200 is arranged within the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 when the water tank assembly is connected to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000.

[0165] In particular, the housing 2101 comprises an outer housing section 2103 and an inner housing section 2104 (which is arranged within the outer housing section 2103). The outer housing section 2103 comprises an air inlet 2105 through which air can flow into the body 2100 and thereby provides the air inlet 2105 of the humidifier 2000. The inner housing section 2104 then also comprises an air inlet 2106 through which air can flow into the inner cavity / compartment 2107 (which is defined by the inner housing section 2104) and within which the air flow generator is arranged and into which the evaporator assembly 2200 can be inserted. The space between the outer housing section 2103 and the inner housing section 2104 then defines a filter compartment 2108 within which the filter assembly 2140 can be arranged so that the filter assembly 2140 is then downstream of the air inlet 2105 of the humidifier 2000 and upstream of the air flow generator. Therefore, the air drawn into the interior of the body 1000 through the air flow generator is filtered before passing through the air flow generator.

[0166] The outer shell section 2103 and the inner shell section 2104 are arranged so that they define an inner cavity / compartment 2107 with an open end, wherein the first opening 2109 is at the upper end of the body 2100 and the second opening 2102 is at the lower end of the body 2000. The air flow generator is then arranged near the upper end of the inner compartment 2107 with an open end, wherein the air inlet 2164 of the air flow generator faces the inner cavity / compartment 2107, and the air outlet 2113 of the air flow generator is arranged within the first opening 2109, or adjacent to the first opening 2109 at the upper end of the body 2100. The second opening 2101 at the lower end of the body 2100 then allows the evaporator assembly to be inserted into the inner cavity / compartment 2107 (which is defined by the inner shell section 2104).

[0167] As described above, in use, the evaporator assembly 2000 is located on top of the water tank assembly, wherein the water tank assembly is then connected to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 by vertically lowering the body 2100 onto the water tank assembly. Thus, the evaporator assembly 2200 enters the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 through the second opening 2102 at the lower end of the body 2100 until the lower surface of the body 2100 is located on the upper surface of the water tank assembly 2300, 2400. The interface / connection sealing element 2127 is then arranged to form a seal between the water tank assembly and the body 2100, which prevents air from leaking into the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 (that is, from the outside of the humidifier 2000). In particular, the interface sealing element 2127 is arranged to form a seal around the interface between the water tank assembly and the body 2100 of the humidifier 1000.

[0168] In the second embodiment, the interface / connection sealing element 2127 is thus arranged to form a seal between the upper surface of the water tank 2300 and the lower surface of the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000. In particular, the interface / connection sealing element 2107 is provided by a closed loop of elastic material (for example rubber), which is mounted on the lower surface of the body 2100 and is arranged to contact the upper surface of the water tank 2300 when the body is supported on the water tank 2300 and can be compressed by the upper surface of the water tank 2300.

[0169] exist Fig.39 In the embodiment shown in , both the outer shell section 2103 and the inner shell section 2104 are cylindrical. The inner shell section 2104 has a smaller diameter than the outer shell section 2103 and is arranged concentrically within the outer shell section 2103 so that they define an annular space between them, which thereby provides a filter compartment 2108, in which the filter assembly 2140 can be arranged. The lower end of the filter compartment 2108 is closed and provides a plate on which the filter assembly 2140 is supported when arranged in the filter compartment. The upper end of the filter compartment 2108 is then open, and thereby the cylindrical filter assembly 2140 can be arranged in the filter compartment 2108 by descending into the filter compartment 2108 through the opening 2109 at the upper end. The closed lower end of the filter compartment 2108 is then also provided with a lower filter sealing element 2111 which forms a seal between the lower surface of the filter assembly 2140 and the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 when the filter assembly 2140 is arranged within the filter compartment 2108 and thereby prevents air from leaking between the lower surface of the filter assembly 2140 and the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000. The nozzle 2600 then comprises an upper filter sealing element 2601 which is arranged so that, when the nozzle 6000 is attached to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, it contacts both the upper surface of the filter assembly 2140 and the inner surface of the body to prevent air from leaking around the top end of the filter assembly 2140.

[0170] Fig.41 A perspective view of the humidifier 2000 is shown with the filter assembly 2140 separated from the body 2100 . Fig.42A side cross-sectional view through a filter assembly 2140 is then shown, which is suitable for use with the humidifier 2000. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter assembly 2140 includes a chemical filter media layer 2141, a particulate filter media layer 2142 disposed above and thus upstream of the chemical filter media layer 2141, and an outer screen layer 2143 disposed above an outer surface of the particulate filter media layer 2142 and thus upstream of the particulate filter media layer. A first end cap 2144 is then disposed on a first end of each of the particulate filter media layer 2142, the chemical filter media layer 2141, and the outer screen layer 2143, while a second end cap 2145 is disposed on a second end of each of the particulate filter media layer 2142, the chemical filter media layer 2141, and the outer screen layer 2143. For example, the particulate filter media 2142 may include a pleated polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or glass microfiber nonwoven, while the chemical filter media 2141 may include an activated carbon filter media, such as a carbon cloth. The filter end caps 2144, 2145 can then be molded from a plastic material and attached / adhered to the ends of the filter media using an adhesive. In a preferred embodiment, one of the filter end caps 2144 also includes one or more tabs 2146 that protrude longitudinally away from the filter end cap 2144 and can thereby be grasped by a user to help lift the filter assembly 2140 out of the annular filter compartment 2108.

[0171] The air inlet 2105 into the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 then comprises an array of holes formed in the outer housing section 2103, which thereby allows air to enter the humidifier 2000 by passing through the outer housing section 2103 into the filter compartment 2108. The inner housing section 2104 is then also formed with an array of holes, which thereby allows air to exit the filter compartment 2108 and enter the inner compartment 2107 defined by the inner housing section 2104. The inner housing section 2104 then also comprises a ledge / plate 2114, which then extends radially inwardly from the inner housing section 2104, located above the array of holes formed therein, wherein the air flow generator is then supported within the inner compartment 2107 by the plate 2114. In this second embodiment, the air flow generator is provided by a motor driven impeller 2110 (which is housed in an impeller housing 2151), wherein the impeller housing 2151 is then supported on a plate 2114, near the upper end of the housing 2101. Both the motor driven impeller 2110 and the impeller housing 2151 are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment described above and are therefore not further described. Although the air inlets 2105, 2106 in this second embodiment are each provided by an array of holes, these air inlets 2105, 2106 may alternatively include one or more grilles or meshes (which are mounted in windows formed in the corresponding housing sections).

[0172] exist Fig.39 In the embodiment shown in , the housing 2101 also provides an electronic device compartment, in which various electrical components of the humidifier 2000 are accommodated. In particular, the lower end of the outer housing section 2103 is provided with an annular tray 2115, which extends radially inward from the outer housing section 2103 and is arranged below the filter compartment 2108. The various electrical components of the humidifier 2000 are then supported in the annular tray 2115, which is then covered by an annular cover 2116, which is located above the electronic device and isolates the electronic device from the rest of the humidifier 2000. The annular cover 2116 and the annular tray 2115 thereby define the electronic device compartment. For example, the electrical components accommodated in the electronic device compartment typically include one or more control circuits 2118, power connectors, and one or more sensors, such as infrared sensors, dust sensors, etc. In addition, the electronic device compartment may also accommodate one or more wireless communication modules (such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.), and any associated electronic devices. The electronics compartment may also include an electronic display 2119 visible through an opening or at least partially transparent window provided near the lower end of the outer housing section 2103. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic display 2119 is provided by an LED display mounted within the electronics compartment and aligned with the transparent window provided in the outer housing section 2103.

[0173] exist Fig.39 In the illustrated embodiment, the lower surface of the annular tray 2115 also forms the lower surface of the body 2100, and thereby provides an annular base 2120 (i.e., the lower surface) on which the body 2100 sits / is supported, and further defines a second opening 2102 at the lower end of the body 2100, through which the evaporator assembly 2200 enters the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 (i.e., into the internal compartment 2107 of the body 2100). The interface sealing element 2127 is thereby arranged on the annular base 2120 of the body 2100.

[0174] As described above, in use, the evaporator assembly 2200 is located on top of the water tank assembly, which is then connected to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 by vertically lowering the body 2100 onto the water tank assembly. Fig.43 A front perspective view of the water tank assembly is shown with the evaporator assembly 2200 supported on an upper surface of the water tank assembly. Fig.44 A rear perspective view of the water tank assembly is then shown with the evaporator assembly 2200 separated from the water tank assembly. Fig.45 A rear perspective view of the water tank assembly is then shown with the removable water tank cover 2400 separated from the water tank 2300 .

[0175] exist Figure 37-45 In the embodiment shown in , the body 2100 of the humidifier 1000 is generally cylindrical in shape and is arranged to be supported by the upper surface of the water tank assembly. The water tank assembly then includes a generally cylindrical water tank 2300, which is formed to generally correspond to the shape of the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, and thereby provides an aesthetic appearance, and also provides a visible indication that the body 2100 of the humidifier 3000 is properly aligned with the water tank assembly when the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 is lowered onto the water tank assembly. The water tank 2300 thus includes a generally circular bottom surface 2301 and a cylindrical side wall 2302, which is arranged to be generally flush / same level with the outer surface of the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 when the body of the humidifier 2000 is supported by the upper surface 2303 of the water tank assembly. The circular bottom surface 2301, the cylindrical side wall 2302 and the upper surface 2303 of the water tank 2300 thus have substantially the same radius as the outer surface of the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000. Preferably, at least the side wall 2302 of the water tank 2300 is formed of a transparent material to allow a user to visually determine the water level within the water tank 2300. Also preferably, at least the bottom surface 2301 and the side wall of the water tank 2302 are integrally formed so as to minimize the risk that water may leak from the water tank 2300.

[0176] The upper surface of the water tank 2300 is then provided with a water tank opening 2312 through which the water tank 2300 can be filled with water. In addition, as described in more detail below, the water tank opening 2312 is large enough to allow the evaporator assembly 2200 to be inserted into the water tank 2300, wherein the water tank 2300 is also deep enough to allow the evaporator assembly 2200 to be completely contained within the water tank 2300 when inserted through the water tank opening 2312. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank opening 2312 is circular and is disposed at the center of the upper surface 2303 of the water tank 2300 so that the upper surface 2303 is then generally annular in shape. The bottom surface 2301 of the water tank 2300 then also has a recessed or depressed portion 2304 that aligns with the water tank opening 2312 to ensure that the water in the water tank 2300 flows toward an area of ​​the water tank 2300 where the pump 2403 is located when the removable water tank cover 2400 is arranged on the water tank 2300. The water tank 2300 then also includes a base plate 2305 that is attached to the bottom of the water tank 2300 to provide a secure bottommost surface for the water tank 2300 and the humidifier 2000, while also protecting the bottom of the water tank 2300.

[0177] As described above, the water tank assembly also includes a removable water tank cover 2400 that is arranged to fit over and thereby occlude the water tank opening 2312. The water tank cover 2400 is releasably retained on the water tank 2300 so that the water tank cover 2400 can be removed to allow the water supply within the water tank 2300 to be replenished. Fig.46Thus, a front view of the water tank cover 2400 is shown, and Fig.47 A rear perspective view of a water tank cover 2400 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank cover 2400 comprises a cover portion 2401 which is generally cylindrical in shape with a flange 2402 (which projects radially outwardly from the periphery of the cover portion 2401). A rim 2420 projects downwardly from the periphery of the cover portion 2401, wherein this rim 2403 is arranged to closely match around the outside of a corresponding edge 2313 (which projects upwardly from the periphery of the water tank opening 2312), thereby positioning and aligning the water tank cover 2400 on the opening 2312. The water tank cover 2400 is also provided with a water tank cover sealing element 2404, which is arranged to form a seal relative to the water tank 2300 when the water tank cover 2400 is arranged on the water tank 2300 and thereby prevent air from leaking into the water tank 2300 through the water tank opening 2312. In the illustrated embodiment, the tank cover sealing element 2404 is provided by an annular seal formed by an elastic material (such as rubber) and is arranged to be adjacent to the inner side of the edge 2420 on the lower side of the tank cover 2400 (that is, below the cover portion) so that the tank cover sealing element 2404 contacts and forms a seal against the upward edge 2313 provided around the periphery of the tank opening 2312.

[0178] The tank cover 2400 is then releasably held on the water tank 2300 by the tank cover retaining mechanism. The tank cover retaining mechanism has a first configuration, in which the tank cover 2400 is held on the water tank 2300, and a second configuration, in which the tank cover 2400 is released for removal from the water tank 2300. The tank cover retaining mechanism is also arranged to be biased toward the first configuration so that the tank cover retaining mechanism retains the tank cover 2400 on the water tank 2300 unless it is placed in the second configuration by the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the tank cover includes a pair of tank cover retaining mechanisms, which are arranged on opposite sides of the tank cover. Each of these tank cover retaining mechanisms includes retaining elements 2406a, 2406b, which are in the form of snaps, which can move between the first configuration and the second configuration relative to the tank cover 2400. Each of these water tank cover holding mechanisms then also includes a manual actuation member 2408a, 2408b, which is used to generate the movement of the holding elements 2406a, 2406b from the first configuration to the second configuration. In particular, each manual actuation member 2408a, 2408b takes the form of a button, which can be accessed by a user on the cover portion 2401 of the water tank 2400 (i.e. above the flange 2402), so that these buttons can be pressed by the user to actuate the holding elements 2406a, 2406b to release the water tank cover 2400 from the water tank 2300. The holding elements 2406a, 2406b are then diametrically opposed and protrude radially outwardly below the flange 2402 of the cover portion 2401. The retaining elements 2406a, 2406b are thus arranged so that when the tank cover 2400 is arranged on the water tank 2300 and these tank cover retaining mechanisms are in the first configuration, they are blocked by the edge of the tank opening 2312 (i.e., the upper surface of the water tank 2300), thereby preventing the tank cover 2400 from separating from the water tank 2300, and so that when the tank cover 2400 is arranged on the water tank 2300 and the tank cover retaining mechanisms are in the second configuration, the retaining elements 2406a, 2406b are not blocked / detached from the tank opening 2312, thereby allowing the tank cover 2400 to separate from the water tank 2300.

[0179] As described above, the water tank cover 2400 provides a water pump 2403 which is arranged to be disposed within the water tank 2300 and delivers water from within the water tank 2300 to the evaporator assembly 2000 through a water supply outlet 2440 which is provided near the top of the water tank cover 2400 . Fig.48 A side cross-sectional view of the water tank cover 2400 is shown, and Fig.49A perspective cross-sectional view of the water tank cover 2400 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank cover 2400 further includes a column 2410 that protrudes downward from the water tank cover (i.e., below the cover portion) such that when the water tank cover 2400 is positioned on the water tank 2300, the column 2410 extends into the interior of the water tank 2000, wherein the bottom of the column 2410 is adjacent to the bottom 2301 of the water tank 2300. Fig.50 Thus, a top cross-sectional view through the water tank cover 2400 is shown, and Fig.51 A cross-sectional view of the bottom of the column through the water tank cover 2400 is shown. The bottom of the column 2410 is then provided with a pump housing inlet 2411 which allows water to enter the pump housing portion 2412 of the column 2410, wherein the pump 2403 is then arranged at the bottom of the column 2410, within the pump housing 2412, directly above the pump housing inlet 2411. The outlet water supply conduit 2407 is then arranged to deliver water from the pump 2403 to the water supply outlet 2440 arranged near the top of the water tank cover 2400.

[0180] The column 2410 then also contains an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system, which is arranged to irradiate the water with UV light as it is pumped from the water tank 2300 to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000. The UV disinfection system in the second embodiment includes a UV light source 2409, which is arranged to irradiate the water passing through the outlet water supply pipe 2407. In particular, the UV light source 2409 is arranged to irradiate the water passing through the outlet water supply pipe 2407 with short wavelength UVC light (i.e. 100-280nm). The outlet water supply pipe 2407 is then arranged so that the inner surface can reflect the UV light generated by the UV light source 2409.

[0181] The water outlet supply pipe 2407 comprises a pipe of a material capable of reflecting UVC light, wherein a lateral water inlet 2413 is arranged adjacent to the lower end of the pipe, and a lateral water outlet 2414 is arranged adjacent to the upper end. In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral water outlet 2414 comprises a hole formed in the side of the pipe at the upper end and a channel extending away from the hole in a direction tangent to the hollow center of the pipe of the ultraviolet reflective material (i.e., a direction tangent to the inner surface of the pipe). In this regard, the term "tangent" used here to describe the water outlet 2414 when arranged so that the water flowing through the water outlet 2414 flows in a direction tangent to the inner surface of the pipe. The UV light source 2409 then comprises a single UV LED arranged at the upper end of the pipe, which is arranged to longitudinally illuminate the interior of the pipe through an upper UV transparent window 2415 (for example, quartz glass) provided at the upper end of the pipe. The tangential arrangement of the water outlet 2414 ensures that the water flowing out of the tube creates a vortex in the tube, which prevents the formation of bubbles on the upper UV transparent window 2415, thereby improving the performance of the disinfection system. In addition, the establishment of the vortex in the tube ensures that the cleaning cycle removes mineral deposits from the UV transparent window 2415.

[0182] In this second embodiment, the outlet water supply conduit 2407 comprises an integrally formed tube of UV reflective material having an open upper end 2416, a hollow bore / center 2417, and a closed lower end 2418. In particular, the outlet water supply conduit 2407 comprises an integrally formed tube of polytetrafluoroethylene (HTFE), and is preferably composed of undoped (i.e., pure / virgin) PTFE. The surface of the hollow center 2417 of the tube has an ISO roughness rating of about N5 (i.e., approximately 0.4 μm Ra). However, the surface of the hollow center 2417 of the tube may have an ISO roughness rating of from N8-N1 (i.e., from 3.2 μm to 0.025 μm Ra), and preferably from N7-N4 (i.e., from 1.6 μm to 0.2 μm Ra).

[0183] The UV reflective material tube is manufactured by compression molding UV reflective material powder to form a solid rod or rod of UV reflective material. Preferably, the solid rod is formed by PTFE powder, which includes PTFE particles with a diameter of less than 100 microns, preferably less than 50 microns and more preferably less than 40 microns. A material removal process (for example, subtractive manufacturing, such as machining, drilling, drilling) is then used on the solid rod to form a tube, which has an open end 2416, a hollow hole / center 2417 and a closed end 2418. The material removal process is also used to form a first hole in the side of the tube adjacent to the closed end, and a second hole is formed in the side of the tube adjacent to the open end. The first hole then forms a part of the lateral water inlet 2413, and the second hole forms a part of the lateral water outlet 2414.

[0184] The column 2410 also includes a flow regulator for the pump system, which is arranged to ensure that the flow rate of water passing through the UV disinfection system does not exceed a predefined maximum value, thereby ensuring that a minimum level of disinfection of the water flowing through the outlet water supply pipe 2407 is maintained. In particular, the flow regulator is provided by a container 2421, which is arranged to receive water from the pump 2403 and which is fluidly connected to the inlet 2413 (which is provided at the lower end of the water supply pipe 2407). The upper end of the container 2421 is then provided with a wall top / edge 2422, which allows excess water to flow out of the container 2421 and back into the water tank 2300, so that the container 2421 can be considered to act as a weir. The container 2421 then also includes a restrictor 2427, wherein the restrictor 2427 is arranged so that the water received by the container 2421 must flow through the restrictor 2427 before passing over the wall top / edge 2422 of the container 2421. By configuring the water pump 2403 to operate at a flow rate that ensures a constant flow of water over the weir provided by the flow regulator, the flow rate of water received by the outlet water supply conduit 2407 is then regulated by a combination of the height of the wall top 2422 of the container 2421 and the size of the restrictor 2427. In particular, any fluctuations in the flow rate of water received from the water pump 2403 (e.g. due to a reduction in the water height within the water tank 2300, fluctuations in the performance of the water pump 2403, etc.) are then offset by fluctuations in the volume of water flowing over the weir provided by the flow regulator so that the flow rate of water received by the outlet water supply conduit 2407 remains substantially constant.

[0185] In the illustrated embodiment, the container 2421 comprises a flow regulating chamber provided within the column 2410, which is connected to an inlet 2413 provided at the lower end of the outlet water supply pipe 2407 through a channel or manifold 2423 (which extends from the lower end of the chamber). The outlet of the pump 2403 is then connected to the inlet 2424 provided at the bottom of the flow regulating chamber, while the wall top 2422 comprises an outlet provided at the top of the flow regulating chamber (through which the water exits the flow regulating chamber into the drain 1426 (through which the water can flow back to the water tank 1300 through the spillway)). The wall top / edge 2422 is then vertically displaced relative to the outlet 2414 of the outlet water supply pipe 2407 (that is, when the water tank cover 2400 is arranged on the water tank 2300). In particular, the wall top / edge 2422 of the container 2421 is lower than the outlet 2414 of the outlet water supply pipe 2407. The restrictor 2427 then comprises a perforated plate arranged between the inlet 2424 and the wall top / rim 2422 of the flow conditioning chamber, wherein the perforated plate comprises a wall / baffle extending across the flow conditioning chamber, wherein the restricting holes are formed in the wall / baffle.

[0186] The cover portion 2401 of the water tank cover 2400 is then provided with a water tank to body connector 2430, arranged to be connected to a corresponding body to water tank connector 2121 (which is provided on the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000). The water tank to body connector 2430 is arranged substantially parallel to the direction in which the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 is arranged on the water tank 2300 (i.e. axially relative to the body 2100), and is directed / faced upwards, so that the water tank to body connector 2430 mates and / or connects to the corresponding body to water tank connector 2121 (which is provided on the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000) during lowering the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 onto the water tank 2300. In this second embodiment, the tank-to-body connector 2430 includes an electrical connector 2431 for receiving power from the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 and for communicating with the control circuit 2118 (which is provided within the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000). The electrical connector 2431 provided by the tank-to-body connector 2430 is thereby arranged to contact / engage a corresponding electrical connector 2122 (which is provided by the body-to-tank connector 2121).

[0187] Fig.52 The top view of the water tank assembly is shown, wherein the evaporator assembly 2200 is arranged on the upper surface of the water tank cover 2400, and Fig.53 A bottom view of the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank to body connector 2430 includes a connector housing 2432 that radially protrudes outward from the periphery of the cover portion 2401 of the water tank cover 2400. A plurality of contact pad electrical connectors 2431 are then exposed at the upper surface of the connector housing 2432. The electrical wiring from the column 2410 of the water tank cover 2400 then enters the connector housing 2432 and is connected to the inner end of the contact pad electrical connector 2431. The body to water tank connector 2121 then includes a connector housing 2123 that radially protrudes inward from the electronic device compartment (which is provided at the lower end of the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000). A plurality of male end electrical connectors 2122 protrude downward from the connector housing 2123. Electrical wiring from the electronics compartment of the body 2100 of the humidifier 1000 then enters the connector housing 2123 and connects to the interior ends of the plurality of male end electrical connectors 2122 .

[0188] The water tank cover 2400 is then also provided with a plurality of alignment features 2433, which are arranged to cooperate with a plurality of corresponding alignment features 2124 (which are provided on the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000) to ensure that the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 can only be arranged on the water tank in an orientation that aligns the water tank to body connector 2430 with the body to water tank connector 2121. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank cover 2400 is provided with a plurality of alignment features 2433 (which are in the form of a plurality of protrusions) that protrude radially outwardly from the outer periphery of the cover portion 2401 of the water tank cover 2400, wherein the protrusions are irregularly distributed around the periphery of the cover portion 2401 of the water tank cover 2400. The body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 is then provided with a plurality of corresponding alignment features 2124 (in the form of a plurality of recesses) extending radially outward into the inner periphery of the lower end of the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, wherein the size and distribution of these recesses around the periphery of the lower end of the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 matches the size and distribution of the protrusions on the cover portion 2401 of the water tank cover 2400 provided.

[0189] exist Figures 37 to 53 In the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator assembly 2200 is arranged to be located above an evaporator tray 2435 (which is provided by the upper surface of the removable water tank cover 2400). In particular, the evaporator tray 2435 of the water tank cover 2400 is arranged to support the evaporator assembly 2200 so that it extends upwardly away from the water tank cover 2400. Therefore, when the water tank assembly is connected to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, the evaporator assembly 2200 is arranged within the air flow passing through the internal cavity / compartment 2107 (which is defined by the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000). In addition, the evaporator tray 2435 of the water tank cover 2400 is arranged to support the evaporator assembly 2200 so that water pumped from the water tank 2300 is supplied to the evaporator assembly 2200 and so that any water discharged from the evaporator assembly 2200 is received by the evaporator tray 2435 and conveyed back to the water tank 2300.

[0190] In this second embodiment, the water supply outlet 2440 is arranged so that water pumped from the water tank 2300 by the water pump 2403 is supplied to the evaporator tray 2435. The water supply outlet 2440 is then also arranged so that, when the water pump 2403 stops pumping water (i.e. is turned off), the water supply outlet 2440 acts as a siphon to transfer any water remaining in the evaporator tray 2435 back to the water tank 2300. Thus, the evaporator assembly 2200 is arranged so that, when arranged above the evaporator tray 2435, the lower end of the evaporator assembly 2200 is immersed in water supplied to the evaporator tray 2435 by the water pump 2403. The evaporator tray 2435 thereby provides a reservoir for water received from the water supply system, wherein the water contained in the evaporator tray 2435 is then drawn upward through the porous material of the evaporator assembly 2200.

[0191] In the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator tray 2435 is provided at the top of the cover portion 2401 of the water tank cover 2400 and includes a generally annular groove section 2435a that slopes downwardly toward the central axis (i.e., radially inwardly) of the evaporator tray 2435. Within the center of the annular groove section 2425a, the evaporator tray 2435 then also includes a trough section 2435b that is fluidly connected to the trough section 2435a and a drain 2426 (which extends through the water tank cover 2400) that allows excess water within the evaporator tray 2435 to flow back to the water tank 2300. The water supply outlet 2440 then includes a conduit that extends downwardly from the lateral water outlet 2414 of the outlet water supply conduit 2407, wherein the open end of the water supply outlet 2440 is arranged adjacent to and facing the surface of the trough section 2435b. The overflow wall 2426a thus separates the drain 2426 from both the trough section 2435a and the trough section 2435b of the evaporator tray 2435, so as to ensure that the water level within the trough section 2435a of the evaporator tray 2435 can reach a high enough level to submerge the lower end of the evaporator assembly before overflowing into the drain 2426. The evaporator tray 2435 is then also provided with an outer wall 2435c extending upwardly from the outer edge of the trough section 2435a. The outer wall 2435c provides an evaporator seat on which the evaporator assembly 2200 can be placed when arranged on the evaporator tray 2435.

[0192] In the illustrated embodiment, the cover portion 2401 of the water tank cover 2400 then further includes a generally cylindrical water supply housing 2436 that covers the top of the column 2410 and thereby covers the UV light source 2409, the water supply outlet 2440 and the trough section 2435b of the evaporator tray 2435. The water supply housing 2436 is arranged centrally at the top of the cover portion 2401 of the water tank cover 2400 so that the trough section 2435a of the evaporator tray 2435 protrudes radially outward around the periphery of the water supply housing 2436.

[0193] The water tank cover 2400 is also provided with an air supply inlet 2438 which receives an air supply from within the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 and delivers this air supply to the water tank 2300. Providing the water tank 2300 with an air supply from the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 allows the air pressure within the water tank 2300 to equalize with the air pressure within the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, thereby allowing the water tank 2300 to be sealed against the intrusion of air that does not pass through the filter (which is provided on the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000) without affecting the discharge of excess water back to the water tank 2300.

[0194] In the illustrated embodiment, the air supply inlet 2438 is provided by an opening in the water supply housing 2436, which is provided at the top of the water tank cover 2400 and above the drain port 2426, which is provided near the top of the column 2410. Therefore, when the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 is supported on the upper surface of the water tank 2300, air from within the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 can flow into the water tank cover 2400 through the air supply inlet 2438 and then enter the water tank 2300 through the drain port 2426.

[0195] In particular, the evaporator assembly 2200 includes a porous material device 2201 that absorbs water supplied to it by a water supply system and provides a large surface area to allow water to evaporate when air flows through the evaporator assembly 2200, thereby introducing water vapor into the air flow. The evaporator assembly 2200 then includes an evaporator frame that supports the porous material device 2201, wherein the evaporator frame includes a first end cap (which covers the first end of the porous material device), a second end cap (which covers the second end of the porous material device), and at least one grill (which extends between the first end cap and the second end cap). The at least one grill is connected to both the first end cap and the second end cap and thereby maintains the overall structure of the evaporator frame without restricting the air flow through the evaporator assembly.

[0196] Fig.54 A side view of an evaporator assembly 2200 is shown, which is suitable for use with the humidifier 2000 in this second embodiment. Fig.55 A side cross-sectional view of the evaporator assembly 2200 is then shown. Fig.56 An exploded view of the evaporator assembly 2200 is shown. Fig.57A side cross-sectional view of the evaporator assembly 2200 is then shown when arranged on the water tank cover 2400. In this second embodiment, the evaporator frame includes a generally tubular outer grid 2202 (which extends over the outer surface of the tubular arrangement 2201 of porous material) and a generally tubular inner grid 2203 (which extends over the inner surface of the tubular arrangement 2201 of porous material). The evaporator frame then also includes a pair of annular end caps 2204a, 2204b, which cover the exposed ends of the porous material 2201.

[0197] In this second embodiment, the tubular device 2201 of porous material comprises a single porous material tube, wherein the porous material tube 2201 is arranged between a first end cap 2204a and a second end cap 2204b. In particular, a first exposed end of the tubular device 2201 of porous material is covered by the first end cap 2204a, and an opposite, second exposed end of the tubular device 2201 of porous material is covered by a second end cap 2204b of the evaporator frame.

[0198] In this second embodiment, the evaporator assembly 2200 is arranged so that only one of the two ends of the evaporator assembly 2200 can be mounted within the evaporator tray 2235. In particular, the first end cap 2204a (which covers the first end of the tubular arrangement 2201 of porous material) is arranged to be mounted within the evaporator tray 2435, while the second end cap 2201 (which covers the second end of the tubular arrangement 2201 of porous material) is arranged so that it is not mounted within the evaporator tray 2235. In particular, the inner diameter (D5) of the first end cap 2204a is thereby larger than the inner diameter (D3) of the recess (which is provided by the evaporator tray 2435), while the outer diameter (D6) of the first end cap 2204a is smaller than the outer diameter (D4) of the recess (which is provided by the evaporator tray 2435). In contrast, the inner diameter (D7) of the second end cap is greater than the inner diameter (D3) of the recess (which is provided by the evaporator tray 2435) and equal to the inner diameter of the first end cap 2204a, while the outer diameter (D8) of the second end cap 2204b is greater than the outer diameter (D4) of the recess (which is provided by the evaporator tray 2435). The outer diameter (D6) of the first end cap 2204a is thus smaller than the outer diameter (D8) of the second end cap 2204b.

[0199] In this second embodiment, the first end cap 2204a is arranged to provide a trough / tray in which the first end of the device 2201 of porous material is arranged. The first end cap 2204a is then provided with a plurality of holes 2205 that allow water to rise into the trough and flow out of the trough / tray. Therefore, when arranged above the evaporator tray 2435, water supplied to the evaporator tray 2435 by the water pump 2403 rises through these holes 2205 into the trough / tray (which is provided by the first end cap 2204a) so that the first end of the device 2201 of porous material is immersed in the water contained in the first end cap 2204a. The water contained in the first end cap 2204a is then drawn upward through the porous material 2201 of the evaporator assembly 2200. Thus, when the water pump 2403 stops pumping water (i.e. is turned off) and the water supply outlet 2240 siphons any water held in the evaporator tray 2435 back into the water tank 2300, the water contained in the trough / tray (which is provided by the first end cap 2204a) exits the first end cap 2204a through these holes 2205.

[0200] In the illustrated embodiment, the first end cap 2204a provides an annular groove / tray which is mounted on the first end of the tubular arrangement of porous material 2201 and acts as a reservoir for water received from the water supply system. A portion of the tubular arrangement of porous material is thereby located within the volume of water within the first end cap 2204a to ensure that it is absorbed by the porous material 2201 of the evaporator assembly 2200. The first end cap 2204a thereby includes a bottom surface 2206, an inner wall 2207, and an outer wall 2208, wherein holes 2205 are provided within the bottom surface 2206 of the first end cap 2204a. In the illustrated embodiment, the water supply system is also arranged such that, when the evaporator assembly 2200 is arranged on top of the evaporator tray 2435, the bottom surface 2206 of the first end cap 2204a is separated from the surface of the evaporator assembly 2200 and thereby also above the bottom end of the water supply outlet 2240 to ensure that water is discharged from the evaporator assembly 2200 when the water pump 2403 stops pumping water. The first end cap 2204a is also arranged so that the outer wall 2207 is higher than the inner wall 2206 to ensure that any excess water (which overflows from the first end cap 2204a) flows over the inner wall 2206 and into the evaporator tray 2435.

[0201] As described above, the water tank 2300 is arranged to allow the evaporator assembly 2200 to be inserted and fully contained within the water tank 2300 when the water tank cover 2400 is held over the water tank opening 2312. This arrangement allows the evaporator assembly 2200 to be located within the water tank 2300 when the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 is connected to the water tank assembly 2300, 2400 so that the evaporator assembly 1200 can be immersed in a descaling solution while the humidifier 2000 performs a self-contained cleaning cycle. This self-contained cleaning cycle can thereby simultaneously clean both the water supply system (which includes both the water tank 2300 and the pump system) and the evaporator assembly 2200. The water tank opening 2312 of the water tank 2300 is thereby configured to allow the evaporator assembly 2200 to pass through / install into the water tank opening 2312. In particular, the size of the water tank opening 2312 exceeds the footprint of the evaporator assembly 2200. The interior volume of the water tank 2300 then also has a height / depth that is greater than the height of the evaporator assembly 2200. In addition, the evaporator assembly 2200 is configured to allow a column 2410 (which protrudes from the lower surface of the water tank cover 2400) to be installed within the hollow center of the evaporator assembly 2200 so that the water tank cover 2400 can be located on the water tank 2300 when the evaporator assembly 2200 is aligned with the water tank opening 2312.

[0202] Fig.58 Thus, a perspective view of the water tank 2300 is shown, wherein the evaporator assembly 2200 is located within the water tank 2300, and Fig.59 A side cross-sectional view of the water tank 2300 is shown with the evaporator assembly 2200 positioned within the water tank 2300 and the water tank cover 2400 covering the opening 2312. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank opening 2312 is circular and thus has a width / diameter (W4) that is greater than the maximum width (W5) of the evaporator assembly 2200. The interior volume of the water tank 2300 when the water tank cover 2400 is held over the opening 2312 then has a height / depth (H3) that is greater than the height (H4) of the evaporator assembly 2200. In addition, the evaporator assembly 2200 is tubular and thus has an interior diameter (D5) that is greater than the maximum width (W6) of the post 2410 (which protrudes from the lower surface of the water tank cover 2400). In the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator assembly 2200 has a height (H4) (ie, the distance between the outer surfaces of the first and second end caps 2204a, 2204b) of at least 50 mm and a maximum width (W5) (ie, maximum outer diameter, D8) of at least 120 mm.

[0203] Preferably, the evaporator assembly 2200 comprises a multi-layer porous material arrangement 2201. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the tubular arrangement 2201 of porous material comprises a single porous material piece 2201 (which is formed into a spiral or roll shape) so as to have a plurality of overlapping layers. However, in alternative embodiments, the tubular arrangement of porous material may comprise a plurality of separate porous material pieces 2201 (which are formed into separate tubes arranged concentrically). In this second embodiment, the porous material 2201 of the evaporator assembly 2200 comprises spacer fibers, which are substantially the same as the spacer fibers in the first embodiment described above and are therefore not further described.

[0204] In this second embodiment, the nozzle 2600 is arranged to be releasably mounted on the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, above the air outlet 2113 of the air generator through which the humidified air flow exits the body 2100, and is thereby detachable from the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000. The nozzle 2600 comprises an air inlet 2602 arranged to receive the air flow from the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000, at least one air outlet 2603, 2604 for emitting the air flow from the nozzle 2600, and an internal air passage 2605 extending between the air inlet 2602 and the at least one air outlet 2603, 2604. The body 2600 then also comprises a nozzle retaining mechanism for releasably retaining the nozzle 2600 on the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000. The nozzle retaining mechanism has a first configuration in which the nozzle 2600 is retained on the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 and a second configuration in which the nozzle 2600 is released for removal from the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000. The nozzle retaining mechanism is also arranged to be biased toward the first configuration so that the nozzle retaining mechanism retains the nozzle 2600 on the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 unless placed into the second configuration by a user. The nozzle 2600 can thereby be temporarily detached from the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 to allow a user to insert and remove the filter assembly 2140 through the open upper end 2109 of the filter compartment 2108 before reattaching the nozzle 2600 to the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000.

[0205] In use, the pump 2403 (provided by the water tank cover 2400) pumps water from the water tank 2300 through the outlet water supply conduit 2407. Within the outlet water supply conduit 2407, the water from the water tank 2300 is then sterilized by the UV system before the water exits the water tank cover 2400 through the water supply outlet 2440 and enters the annular groove / tray (which is provided by the first end cap 2204a of the evaporator assembly 2200). The water retained within the first end cap 2204a is then drawn upward through the porous material 2201. The rotation of the impeller 2110 by the motor 2168 generates an air flow through the impeller housing 2151. This air flow draws air through the filter assembly 2140 and through the holes of the evaporator assembly 2200 into the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000. As the air flow passes through the porous material 2201, water absorbed by the porous material 2201 of the evaporator assembly 2200 then evaporates into the air flow, thereby introducing water vapor into the air flow. The humidified air flow then passes through the impeller housing 2151 and exits the body 2100 of the humidifier 2000 through the air outlet 2113 of the air flow generator and enters the nozzle 2600.

[0206] It should be understood that the various items shown can be used alone or in combination with other items shown in the drawings or described in the specification, and that items mentioned in the same paragraph or in the same drawings are not necessarily used in combination with each other. In addition, the word "device" can be replaced by an appropriate actuator or system or device. In addition, the words "including" or "comprising" are not intended to limit anything in any way and the reader should interpret the corresponding description and claims accordingly.

[0207] Furthermore, although the present invention has been described in terms of the preferred embodiments mentioned above, it should be understood that those embodiments are merely exemplary. Those skilled in the art will be able to make modifications and changes within the scope of the appended claims in view of the disclosure. For example, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention may be equally applicable to other types of humidifiers, not just self-supporting humidifiers. As an example, the humidifier may be any of a self-supporting humidifier, a ceiling or wall mounted humidifier, and a vehicle mounted humidifier.

[0208] In the above-described embodiments, the evaporator assembly comprises one or more independent porous material structures, wherein at least one end of each structure is arranged in a corresponding slot / tray, however, in alternative embodiments the evaporator assembly may comprise more than two porous material structures, wherein the evaporator frame then has an appropriate number of slots / trays separating adjacent porous material structures. Likewise, in the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator assembly has a cylindrical tube shape (i.e. a perfect circular hollow cylinder). However, the evaporator assembly may also have a non-cylindrical tube shape and / or a partial tube shape (for example a cross-sectional shape of a main arc).

[0209] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments, the lateral water outlet of the outlet water supply conduit extends tangentially from the outlet water supply conduit. However, in alternative embodiments, both the lateral water inlet and the lateral water outlet may extend tangentially from the outlet water supply conduit, or the lateral water inlet but not the lateral water outlet may extend tangentially from the outlet water supply conduit.

[0210] Moreover, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, the interface sealing element is provided on the connector bracket of the body to the water tank connector. However, the interface sealing element may be provided on the water tank to the body connector in the same manner. In particular, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, the connection sealing element is provided by a gasket (which is arranged on the connector bracket to surround each of the water supply inlet, the water return outlet and the water supply outlet). In an alternative to this first embodiment, the connection sealing element may be provided on the rearward facing surface of the connector housing of the water tank to the body connector (which surrounds the opening of the fluid connector section entering the connector housing). Similarly, in the above-mentioned second embodiment, the interface sealing element is provided on the lower surface of the body of the humidifier and is arranged to contact the upper surface of the water tank and be compressed by the upper surface of the water tank. In an alternative to the above-mentioned second embodiment, the interface sealing element may be provided on the upper surface of the water tank and is arranged to contact the lower surface of the body of the humidifier and be compressed by the lower surface of the body of the humidifier.

[0211] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described herein, the water supply conduit (which is provided by the water tank assembly) forms part of the ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system, so that the UV light source is arranged to irradiate the water passing through the water supply conduit (which is arranged in the water tank). However, in an alternative embodiment, the ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system may include at least a portion of the water supply conduit arranged in the body of the humidifier. The UV light source will then be arranged to irradiate the water passing through the water supply conduit arranged in the body of the humidifier.

[0212] In addition, in the embodiments described herein, the top wall / edge of the container of the flow regulator is lower than the outlet of the water supply pipe. However, although the height of the weir provided by the top wall / edge is a factor in determining the flow rate, it is not necessary for the top wall / edge to be lower than the outlet, in particular, the top wall / edge may be at the same height as the outlet or higher than the outlet. Moreover, in the embodiments described herein, the restrictor of the flow regulator includes a baffle, which is arranged between the inlet and the top wall / edge of the container. However, in alternative embodiments, the restrictor may be provided at the outlet of the container so that the top wall / edge is provided at / by the outlet from the restrictor. For example, the outlet of the container may include an outlet pipe, which is narrower than the container and thereby provides a restriction, wherein the top wall / edge is provided at the outlet of the outlet pipe.

[0213] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the evaporator assembly has a cylindrical tube shape (ie, a perfect circular hollow cylinder). However, the evaporator assembly may also have a non-cylindrical tube shape and / or a partial tube shape (eg, a cross-sectional shape of a major circular arc).

Claims

1. An air treatment device, comprising: an air flow generator arranged to generate an air flow; a humidity source arranged to introduce water vapor into said air flow; a body which, in use, surrounds both the air flow generator and the moisture source; as well as a water supply system arranged to provide water to a moisture source; the water supply system comprising a water tank assembly detachable from the body, the water tank assembly comprising: Water tank; a water supply conduit having a lateral water inlet at a first end and a lateral water outlet at a second end and disposed at least partially within the water tank and arranged to convey water from the water tank toward a moisture source; and an ultraviolet light source and a transparent window, arranged at the second end of the water supply pipe, the ultraviolet light source being arranged to irradiate the water passing through the water supply pipe longitudinally with ultraviolet light through the transparent window, The lateral water outlet is arranged so that water flowing out of the water supply pipe generates a vortex in the water supply pipe. 2 . The air treatment device according to claim 1 , wherein the water supply pipe is arranged so that an inner surface reflects ultraviolet rays generated by the ultraviolet light source.

3. The air handling device of claim 1, wherein the water tank includes a water tank opening, and the water tank assembly further includes a removable water tank cover arranged to be mounted on the water tank opening and thereby occlude the water tank opening.

4. The air treatment device of claim 3, wherein the ultraviolet light source and the water supply conduit are disposed on the removable water tank cover.

5. An air treatment device according to claim 3, wherein the removable water tank cover is arranged to be releasably retained on the water tank.

6. The air treatment device of claim 1, wherein the body includes an air inlet through which air flow is drawn into the body and an air outlet for emitting the air flow from the body.

7. The air handling device of claim 3, wherein the water supply system further comprises a water pump for pumping water from the water tank through the water supply pipe.

8. The air treatment device of claim 7, wherein the water pump is disposed on a removable water tank cover.

9. The air treatment device according to claim 7, wherein the removable water tank cover is provided with a pump housing, and the water pump is accommodated in the pump housing.

10. The air treatment device of claim 9, wherein the pump housing protrudes from the removable tank cover such that the pump is disposed in the tank when the removable tank cover is disposed over the tank opening.

11. The air handling device of claim 7, wherein the removable water tank cover includes a water supply outlet through which water pumped from the water tank is delivered out of the removable water tank cover.

12. The air treatment device according to claim 11, wherein the water supply pipe is arranged between the water pump and the water supply outlet.

13. An ultraviolet disinfection device for disinfecting supplied water, the ultraviolet disinfection device comprising a water tank assembly, the water tank assembly comprising: a water tank arranged to contain a volume of water within the water tank; a water supply conduit having a lateral water inlet at a first end and a lateral water outlet at a second end and disposed at least partially within the water tank and arranged to convey water out of the interior of the water tank; and An ultraviolet light source and a transparent window are arranged at the second end of the water supply pipe; the ultraviolet light source is arranged to irradiate the water passing through the water supply pipe longitudinally with ultraviolet light through the transparent window, The lateral water outlet is arranged so that water flowing out of the water supply pipe generates a vortex in the water supply pipe.

14. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 13, wherein the water supply pipe is arranged so that the inner surface reflects the ultraviolet rays generated by the ultraviolet light source.

15. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 13, wherein the water tank includes a water tank opening, and the water tank assembly further includes a removable water tank cover arranged to be mounted on the water tank opening and thereby occlude the water tank opening.

16. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 15, wherein the ultraviolet light source and the water supply pipe are disposed on the removable water tank cover.

17. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 15, wherein the water tank assembly further comprises a water pump for pumping water from the water tank through the water supply pipe.

18. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 17, wherein the water pump is disposed on a removable water tank cover.

19. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 17, wherein the removable water tank cover is provided with a pump housing, and the water pump is accommodated in the pump housing.

20. The ultraviolet disinfection device of claim 19, wherein the pump housing protrudes from the removable tank cover so that when the removable tank cover is disposed over the tank opening, the pump is disposed in the tank.

21. The ultraviolet disinfection device of claim 17, wherein the removable water tank cover comprises a water supply outlet through which water pumped from the water tank is delivered out of the removable water tank cover.

22. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 21, wherein the water supply pipe is arranged between the water pump and the water supply outlet.

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