Air replacement appliance

Abstract

An air replacement appliance (100) is provided. The air replacement appliance includes a housing (102) defining a first air inlet (104), a second air inlet (106), and an air outlet (108). The first impeller (116) is arranged such that air from the first air inlet is axially drawn into and radially exhausted from the first impeller. A second impeller (118) is arranged such that air from the second air inlet is axially drawn into and radially exhausted from the second impeller. The air outlet is arranged to permit air discharged radially from the first impeller and from the second impeller to pass through the air outlet to exit the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an air displacement appliance. Background Art

[0002] Various different designs of air displacement appliances are known. In addition to displacing air, an air displacement appliance may include an air treatment system for treating air, such as one or more air purification systems, for example including a filter assembly; an air cooling system; an air heating system; an air humidification system; an air dehumidification system; and a fragrance emission unit.

[0003] A conventional structure for an air displacement appliance including an air purification system (in other words, an air purifier) includes an impeller that is arranged to suck air through an air inlet provided on one side of the housing of the appliance along an axial direction and to blow the air in a radial direction through an air outlet provided at the upper end of the housing of the appliance. Such a design may include a single squirrel-cage impeller, one air inlet, and one air outlet.

[0004] Other known structures include an impeller that is arranged to suck air through air inlets provided on opposite sides of the housing of the appliance along an axial direction and to blow the air in a radial direction through an air outlet provided at the upper end of the housing of the appliance. Such a design may include a single mirror-image impeller, two air inlets, and one air outlet.

[0005] A so-called "tower" structure is also known, in which a centrifugal fan is arranged to suck air into the housing of the appliance via air inlets provided around the perimeter of the housing and to blow the air towards the upper end of the housing.

[0006] Although such designs may have some advantages, there is still a desire to improve certain characteristics of such air displacement appliances, such as enhancing air delivery in the room in which the air displacement appliance operates in a user-comfortable manner, limiting energy consumption and noise generation, and / or enabling the air displacement appliance to have a robust and compact physical design.

[0007] US20200191153A1 discloses an air flow generator that includes: a fan configured to generate a first air flow and a second air flow that flow close to each other in a vertical direction; a fan housing configured to accommodate the fan; a cover provided to surround the fan and the fan housing; and a grasping device configured to guide a selective coupling between the cover and the fan housing, wherein the grasping device performs a first operation to restrict or release the cover and the fan housing in a circumferential direction and performs a second operation to restrict or release the cover and the fan housing in a vertical direction.

[0008] KR1020190075721A discloses an air conditioner, which includes: a housing that includes a first blower device and a second blower device, which are placed in the vertical direction to generate airflows respectively and have an inflow unit; a filter member that filters the air introduced into the inflow unit; a fan housing that is placed on the outlet side of the filter member to guide the airflow to the outside when the air moves downward from the central axis direction; a fan that is accommodated in the fan housing; a discharge guiding device that is placed on the outlet side of the fan to have a discharge hole for discharging the air to the outside; a bridging unit that is joined in the vertical direction; a sub-housing that is placed inside the bridging unit and the discharge guiding device; and a booster fan that is placed inside the sub-housing to provide a flow pressure to suck a part of the air discharged through the discharge hole. The air conditioner can solve the problems of limited air inflow direction and reduced inflow volume. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present invention is defined by the claims.

[0010] According to an example of one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air displacement appliance, which includes: a housing that defines a first air inlet, a second air inlet, and an air outlet; a first impeller that is arranged such that the air from the first air inlet is axially sucked into the first impeller and radially discharged from the first impeller; and a second impeller that is arranged such that the air from the second air inlet is axially sucked into the second impeller and radially discharged from the second impeller, and the air outlet is arranged to allow the air radially discharged from the first impeller and from the second impeller to pass through the air outlet to leave the housing, wherein the air outlet is provided around the perimeter of the housing such that the air leaves the housing in the forward direction, the backward direction, and the lateral direction.

[0011] With the air displacement appliance including the first impeller and the second impeller, the first impeller sucks air from the first air inlet, and the second impeller sucks air from the second air inlet. Compared with the single-impeller design, the airflow velocity of the air displacement appliance can be effectively doubled. In addition, when compared with a single fan whose size corresponds to the total size of the first impeller and the second impeller, a lower sound level can be achieved at the same flow velocity.

[0012] It should be noted that the energy consumption of the air displacement appliance can depend on the fan efficiency and the motor efficiency of the motor(s) that rotate the first and second impellers. The fan efficiency value can vary depending on the impeller design. This value can be equal to the ratio of the hydraulic power generated to the mechanical power. When compared to a single-fan design of the same volume, a dual-impeller design can provide a larger suction area, corresponding to suction from two separate areas (instead of suction from a single area in the case of a single-fan design). The larger suction area can improve the fan efficiency. Additionally, in the case of a single-fan design, the air velocity can be relatively high, especially in the single suction area, and the fan efficiency can be correspondingly low. For these reasons, compared to a single-fan design, a dual-impeller design can provide a more efficient air displacement appliance. This more efficient air displacement appliance can provide performance comparable to that of a single-fan design and consume less energy.

[0013] Since the air discharged radially from the first impeller and from the second impeller exits the housing in the forward, backward, and lateral directions through the air outlet, the air displacement appliance can relatively evenly disperse air in the room in which the air displacement appliance operates in a relatively short time, for example, compared to a situation where the air exits the housing in fewer directions, such as only in one direction. In other words, when air is supplied to the room from fewer directions (e.g., only from one direction), it can take a longer time for the air to evenly diffuse in the room. However, due to the forward air outlet, backward air outlet, and lateral air outlet of the air outlet of the air displacement appliance according to the present invention, fresh air can diffuse over a wider area in a shorter time.

[0014] Directing the air flow to the forward, backward, and lateral directions can also improve user comfort compared to a situation where the air flow is directed to fewer directions (such as only the forward and backward directions). This is because distributing the air flow over more directions can reduce the risk that users positioned along such directions are subjected to uncomfortable high-speed air flows.

[0015] In other words, for a given flow rate, when air is supplied from a narrower air outlet, the air velocity can be high, and the narrower air outlet allows the air to exit the housing in fewer directions, such as only in one direction. Due to the forward air outlet, backward air outlet, and lateral air outlet of the air outlet of the air displacement appliance according to the present invention, the air exits the housing through an air outlet having a relatively large area. This relatively large area of the air outlet can enable the air displacement appliance to deliver a lower air velocity, noting that air velocity = flow rate / flow cross-sectional area. This can help reduce the risk that users are disturbed by a relatively high air velocity.

[0016] In addition, in systems that deliver air in fewer directions, such as in a single direction, it is more likely to shut down the air delivery section of the system, and the performance of the system can be significantly affected. Arranging such a system in a corner of a room can mean that the entire area of air supply can be relatively easily enclosed, thereby causing serious damage to the performance of the system.

[0017] By providing air outlets of the air displacement appliance according to the present invention around the perimeter of the housing such that air exits the housing in a forward direction, a backward direction, and a lateral direction, the risk of blockage of the air outlets and the accompanying interference with the air flow can be reduced.

[0018] In some embodiments, the lateral direction(s) along which air exits the housing via the air outlet(s) includes a lateral direction perpendicular to each of the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0019] In some embodiments, the air outlets are provided around the perimeter of the housing such that air exits the housing in the forward direction and the backward direction, a first lateral direction, and a second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction.

[0020] By directing air in the forward direction, the backward direction, and in two directions of the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction, the air outlet design can help to relatively uniformly enhance the diffusion of air in the room in which the air displacement appliance operates in a relatively short time, and help to provide a lower air velocity, as well as reduce the risk of air flow interference caused by blockage of the air outlets.

[0021] In some embodiments, each of the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction includes a lateral direction perpendicular to the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0022] In some embodiments, the air outlets are provided substantially around the entire perimeter of the housing, such as at least 70% of the housing perimeter.

[0023] By providing air outlets substantially around the entire perimeter of the housing, air can exit the housing from all radial directions, such as via a 360-degree fully open air outlet. This can help to relatively uniformly enhance the diffusion of air in the room in which the air displacement appliance operates in a relatively short time. In other words, the air delivered via the air outlets can be dispersed into the room more quickly because the 360-degree open air outlet effectively shortens the distance that the air needs to travel.

[0024] Due to the 360-degree open air outlet, the operation of the air displacement appliance is unlikely to be adversely affected by the way the user uses the air displacement appliance (e.g., being positioned in a room). This is because a 360-degree open air outlet can mean that a complete closure (e.g., accidental closure) of the entire air outlet is impossible, thus helping to ensure the consistent performance of the air displacement appliance, which is minimally affected by the way the air displacement appliance is used.

[0025] For example, if the air displacement appliance is placed in a corner of a room, it may not be able to effectively deliver air from the 90-degree portion of the air outlet, but can still effectively deliver air from the remaining 270-degree portion of the air outlet. Thus, a 360-degree open air outlet can help to minimize the performance impaired by such positioning of the air displacement appliance in the room.

[0026] In some embodiments, the forward exit of air from the air outlet can be via a front portion of the air outlet disposed at the front part of the housing, where the backward exit of air from the air outlet is via a rear portion of the air outlet disposed at the rear part of the housing, and the lateral exit of air from the air outlet is via a lateral portion (one or more) of the air outlet disposed at the lateral part(s) of the housing, which extends (e.g., bends) between the front part and the rear part.

[0027] In some embodiments, the air displacement appliance includes one or more outlet grilles disposed in the air outlet.

[0028] In such embodiments, the one or more outlet grilles can be arranged to deflect the air leaving the air outlet.

[0029] For example, the one or more outlet grilles can be arranged to provide an upward or downward deflection of the air leaving the air outlet in the forward direction, backward direction, and lateral direction.

[0030] In some embodiments, the one or more outlet grilles are adjustable to be able to select the angle by which the air leaving the air outlet is deflected by the one or more outlet grilles.

[0031] In some embodiments, non-uniformly distributed outlet grilles can be provided around the air outlet.

[0032] In such embodiments, when air exits the housing in the forward, backward, and lateral directions, for example to provide 360-degree air distribution, the air can be delivered more densely in some areas and less densely in other areas. In this way, if a user wants to receive denser air, he or she can rotate the air displacement appliance so that they face a portion of the air outlet with fewer outlet grilles, in other words, a portion where the outlet grilles are spaced wider apart from each other. If a user wants to receive less air, he or she can rotate the air displacement appliance so that they face a different portion of the air outlet with more outlet grilles, in other words, a portion where the outlet grilles are spaced more frequently / closer together.

[0033] Some conventional air displacement appliances include a cover known as a volute to assist in pressurizing the air. This type of cover can span a relatively large area and thus can increase the size of such air displacement appliances. According to the embodiments disclosed herein, such a cover may not be necessary for an air displacement appliance. Such a volute may not be required. A high-performance structure can be achieved within a relatively limited space.

[0034] The first impeller may have a first perimeter from which air is discharged radially from the second impeller, and the second impeller may have a second perimeter from which air is discharged radially from the second impeller. In such embodiments, the air outlet is preferably aligned with the first perimeter and the second perimeter.

[0035] By aligning the air outlet with the first perimeter and the second perimeter, the air discharged radially from the first impeller and from the second impeller can directly exit the housing. Thus, a volute for pressurizing the air discharged from the first impeller and the second impeller, in other words, a volute housing, may not be required and can thus be omitted.

[0036] In some embodiments, the housing is an elongate housing whose length extends from a first end of the housing to a second end of the housing.

[0037] In such embodiments, when the air displacement appliance is oriented for use, the first end may be the upper end of the housing, where the second end is the lower end of the housing.

[0038] In some embodiments, the elongate housing has a circular or substantially circular cross-sectional shape such that the elongate housing is cylindrical or substantially cylindrical.

[0039] The term "substantially circular cross-sectional shape" may refer to an oval cross-sectional shape.

[0040] In other embodiments, the elongate housing has a polygonal cross-sectional shape, such as a polygonal cross-sectional shape with rounded vertices.

[0041] In some embodiments, the elongate housing has a soft triangular cross-sectional shape, where one side of the soft triangular shape corresponds to the front portion of the housing, and the other two sides correspond to the side portions and the rear portion, respectively.

[0042] Other cross-sectional shapes can also be considered, such as a soft square or a soft rectangular cross-sectional shape.

[0043] It should be noted that in the context of such soft polygonal cross-sectional shapes of the housing, the term "soft" can refer to a polygonal cross-sectional shape having rounded vertices.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first impeller and the second impeller are arranged in an intermediate region along the length of the housing between the first end and the second end.

[0045] By arranging the first impeller and the second impeller, and for example also the motor (or motors) for rotating the first impeller and the second impeller, in the intermediate region along the length of the housing, the center of gravity of the air displacement device can be reduced, thereby reducing the vibration of the air displacement device.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the air displacement device can include a base assembly provided at the lower end of the housing. In such embodiments, the base assembly is arranged such that the air displacement device can stand on a surface, such as a floor.

[0047] When standing on a surface, the base assembly can help the air displacement device maintain balance.

[0048] Furthermore, since the base assembly is provided at the lower end of the housing, the base assembly can help reduce the center of gravity of the air displacement device, thereby helping to reduce the vibration of the air displacement device.

[0049] As an alternative or supplement to the base assembly and / or the arrangement of the first impeller and the second impeller in the intermediate region along the length of the housing, the motor (s) for rotating the first impeller and the second impeller can be mounted via an elastic mounting member (s) arranged to inhibit the transmission of vibration from the motor (s) to the housing.

[0050] In some embodiments, the elastic mounting member (s) includes a shock-absorbing portion, such as a rubber shock-absorbing portion, placed on the motor mounting feet through which the motor (s) is mounted to the housing.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first air inlet is arranged at or near the first end, the second air inlet is arranged at or near the second end, and the air outlet is arranged in the central region along the length of the housing between the first air inlet and the second air inlet.

[0052] Thus, the first impeller and the second impeller can draw air into the housing from opposite ends of the air displacement device, and the air leaving the air displacement device can exit from a central region between the opposite ends. It has been found that this provides effective air displacement performance in combination with a relatively compact design. In particular, such an arrangement can help to maximize the suction and air supply areas. Due to such a relatively large area, the speed can be reduced, and a relatively quiet air displacement device can be obtained accordingly (note that a lower speed can result in a lower sound level).

[0053] In some embodiments, when the air displacement device is oriented for use, the first air inlet is disposed at or near the upper end of the housing, and the second air inlet is disposed at or near the lower end of the housing.

[0054] Thus, air suction can be carried out from the upper and lower ends, where the air inlet via the first air inlet draws air from the upper region of the room, while the air inlet via the second air inlet draws air from the lower region of the room.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first air inlet is provided around the perimeter of the housing such that air enters the housing via the first air inlet from the forward, backward, and lateral directions.

[0056] Air can enter the first air inlet forward via the front portion of the first air inlet disposed at the front portion of the housing, where air enters the first air inlet backward via the rear portion of the first air inlet disposed at the rear portion of the housing, and air enters the first air inlet laterally via the lateral portion(s) of the first air inlet disposed at the lateral portion(s) of the housing, which extend (e.g., bend) between the front portion and the rear portion.

[0057] Alternatively or additionally, the second air inlet is provided around the perimeter of the housing such that air enters the housing via the second air inlet from the forward, backward, and lateral directions.

[0058] Air can enter the second air inlet forward via the front portion of the second air inlet disposed at the front portion of the housing, where air enters the second air inlet backward via the rear portion of the second air inlet disposed at the rear portion of the housing, and air enters the second air inlet laterally via the lateral portion(s) of the second air inlet disposed at the lateral portion(s) of the housing, which extend (e.g., bend) between the front portion and the rear portion.

[0059] Thus, air can be drawn into the first air inlet and / or the second air inlet from several radial directions around the air displacement device.

[0060] In some embodiments, the lateral direction(s) along which air enters the housing via the first air inlet and / or the second air inlet includes a lateral direction perpendicular to each of the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first air inlet and / or the second air inlet are disposed around the perimeter of the housing such that air enters the housing along the forward direction and the backward direction, a first lateral direction, and a second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction.

[0062] In some embodiments, each of the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction includes a lateral direction perpendicular to the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0063] In some embodiments, the first air inlet and / or the second air inlet are substantially disposed around the entire perimeter of the housing, such as at least 70% of the housing perimeter.

[0064] Thus, 360-degree air suction can be provided. In this way, air in the room can be effectively drawn into the housing, for example, at or near the upper and lower ends of the housing. Then, since the air outlet openings are disposed around the perimeter of the housing, such as substantially around the entire perimeter of the housing, air can be delivered into the room from a relatively large area of air outlets.

[0065] As an alternative or supplement to the first air inlet disposed around the perimeter of the housing such that air enters the housing via the first air inlet from the forward direction, the backward direction, and the lateral direction, the first air inlet can be disposed at one end of the housing (e.g., the first end or the upper end). Thus, air can enter the housing via the first air inlet along a direction orthogonal to this end of the housing (e.g., the first end or the upper end).

[0066] In the case where the first air inlet is (at least partially) disposed at the upper end of the housing, the first air inlet can be regarded as being disposed at the top side or the top surface of the housing.

[0067] As an alternative or supplement to the second air inlet disposed around the perimeter of the housing such that air enters the housing via the second air inlet from the forward direction, the backward direction, and the lateral direction, the second air inlet can be disposed at one end of the housing (e.g., the second end or the lower end). Thus, air can enter the housing via the second air inlet along a direction orthogonal to this end of the housing (e.g., the second end or the lower end).

[0068] In the case where the second air inlet is (at least partially) disposed at the lower end of the housing, the second air inlet can be regarded as being disposed at the bottom side or the bottom surface of the housing.

[0069] In some embodiments, the first air inlet is (at least partially) disposed at the top end (e.g., the top side or the top surface) of the housing, and the second air inlet is (at least partially) disposed at the bottom end (e.g., the bottom side or the bottom surface) of the housing.

[0070] The air displacement apparatus may include at least one motor that is arranged to rotate the first impeller and the second impeller.

[0071] In some embodiments, the at least one motor includes a first motor for rotating the first impeller and a second motor for rotating the second impeller.

[0072] In such embodiments, the first motor and the second motor can be controlled independently of each other, such that the first impeller and the second impeller can rotate at different rotational speeds relative to each other.

[0073] Alternatively, the air displacement apparatus includes a motor, in other words, a common motor, that is arranged to rotate the first impeller and the second impeller.

[0074] The air displacement apparatus including a common motor that rotates the first impeller and the second impeller can have advantages in terms of size, cost, and energy consumption.

[0075] The air displacement apparatus can be made more compact, and the design complexity and cost can be reduced, for example, as compared to embodiments in which the first motor rotates the first impeller and the second motor rotates the second impeller. A design including two motors may require a larger space to accommodate the two motors, and the two motors may require separate motor controller outputs. Therefore, compared to embodiments in which a common motor rotates the first impeller and the second impeller, the dual-motor design can be more complex and costly.

[0076] In some embodiments, the motor is sandwiched between the first impeller and the second impeller, wherein the drive shaft of the motor includes a first drive shaft portion and a second drive shaft portion, the first drive shaft portion extending from the motor to the first impeller, and the second drive shaft portion extending from the motor to the second impeller in a direction opposite to the first drive shaft portion.

[0077] Sandwiching the motor between the first impeller and the second impeller in this way can contribute to providing a relatively compact and robust design for the air displacement apparatus.

[0078] Due to such positioning of the motor, it is possible to operate the first impeller and the second impeller with a relatively simple geometry.

[0079] If the motor is not positioned between the first impeller and the second impeller, the length of the shaft extending from the motor may need to be increased, thereby increasing the torsion of the shaft and shortening the life of the air displacement apparatus.

[0080] In addition, if the motor is positioned in the air flow path rather than between the first and second impellers, the motor can impede the air flow and cause an additional pressure drop, along with a reduction in the efficiency of the air displacement apparatus, because more energy may be required to provide a given air flow from the air outlet.

[0081] In an alternative embodiment, the motor is arranged to drive the first and second impellers to rotate from a position adjacent to the first impeller such that the first impeller is located between the motor and the second impeller. Alternatively, the motor is arranged to drive the first and second impellers to rotate from a position adjacent to the second impeller such that the second impeller is located between the motor and the first impeller.

[0082] In some embodiments, the air displacement apparatus includes an air treatment system configured to treat the air displaced by the air displacement apparatus.

[0083] The air treatment system may include one or more of the following: an air purification system, such as including a filter assembly, which is arranged to purify the air displaced by the air displacement apparatus; an air heating system, which is arranged to heat the air displaced by the air displacement apparatus; an air cooling system, which is arranged to cool the air displaced by the air displacement apparatus; an air humidification system, which is arranged to humidify the air displaced by the air displacement apparatus; an air dehumidification system, which is arranged to dehumidify the air displaced by the air displacement apparatus; and a fragrance diffusing unit, which is arranged to diffuse fragrance into the air displaced by the air displacement apparatus.

[0084] In some embodiments, the air displacement apparatus includes a filter assembly for filtering the air displaced by the air displacement apparatus.

[0085] The filter assembly may include, for example, high-efficiency particulate absorption (HEPA) filter material.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally, the filter assembly may include gas removal material.

[0087] Examples of gas removal materials include activated carbon, porous and gas absorption materials such as zeolites and metal-organic frameworks.

[0088] In some embodiments, the HEPA and activated carbon layers included in the filter assembly may be arranged separately or in a sandwich form. The filter assembly may also have a pre-filter structure.

[0089] In some embodiments, the filter assembly includes a first filter, wherein the first filter and the first impeller are arranged such that: before the filtered air is axially drawn into the first impeller and discharged radially from the first impeller, the air from the first air inlet is drawn through the first filter.

[0090] Alternatively or additionally, the filter assembly may include a second filter, wherein the second filter and the second impeller are arranged such that: before the filtered air is axially drawn into the second impeller and discharged radially from the second impeller, the air from the second air inlet is drawn through the second filter.

[0091] In embodiments where the air displacement appliance includes a first filter and a second filter, including two filters means that the first filter and the second filter with different filtration characteristics from each other can be used.

[0092] For example, one of the first filter and the second filter may include a filter configured to reduce pet odors, while the other of the first filter and the second filter may include a filter configured to reduce cooking odors.

[0093] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent and be elucidated with reference to the embodiment(s) described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0094] For a better understanding of the present invention, and to more clearly show how the present invention may be implemented, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0095] Figure 1 A view showing the interior of an air displacement appliance according to one example is provided;

[0096] Figure 2 There is provided Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the air displacement appliance shown, which cross-sectional view shows the air outlet of the air displacement appliance provided around the periphery of the housing of the air displacement appliance;

[0097] Figure 3 There is provided Figure 1 and Figure 2 A first perspective view of the air displacement appliance shown; and

[0098] Figure 4 There is provided Figures 1 to 3 A second perspective view of the air displacement appliance shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0099] The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0100] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, system, and method, are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, system, and method of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, the appended claims, and the drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same or similar parts in all the drawings.

[0101] An air displacement appliance is provided. The air displacement appliance includes a housing that defines a first air inlet, a second air inlet, and an air outlet. A first impeller is arranged such that air from the first air inlet is axially drawn into the first impeller and radially discharged from the first impeller. A second impeller is arranged such that air from the second air inlet is axially drawn into the second impeller and radially discharged from the second impeller. The air outlet is arranged to permit the air radially discharged from the first impeller and from the second impeller to pass through the air outlet and leave the housing.

[0102] Figures 1 to 4 An air displacement appliance 100 according to one example is shown. The air displacement appliance 100 includes a housing 102.

[0103] The housing 102 can be formed of any suitable material, such as a plastic material, metal, and / or metal alloy. In particular, it is mentioned that the housing 102 is formed of a plastic material, such as an engineering thermoplastic, as this can contribute to making the air displacement appliance 100 lighter.

[0104] The housing 102 can have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, such as Figures 1 to 4 shown, the housing 102 is an elongate housing 102, the length of which extends from a first end 103A of the housing 102 to a second end 103B of the housing 102.

[0105] In such embodiments, as Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, when the air displacement appliance 100 is oriented for use, the first end 103A can be the upper end of the housing 102, while the second end 103B is the lower end of the housing 102.

[0106] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the air displacement appliance 100 can include a base assembly 105 disposed at the lower end 103B of the housing 102. In such embodiments, the base assembly 105 is arranged such that the air displacement appliance 100 can stand on a surface, such as a floor.

[0107] When standing on a surface, the base assembly 105 can help the air displacement apparatus 100 maintain balance. Additionally, since the base assembly 105 is disposed at the lower end 103B of the housing 102, the base assembly 105 can help lower the center of gravity of the air displacement apparatus 100, thereby helping to reduce the vibration of the air displacement apparatus 100.

[0108] More generally, the housing 102 defines a first air inlet 104, a second air inlet 106, and an air outlet 108.

[0109] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1 to 4 shown, the first air inlet 104 is defined by a plurality of holes in the perforated portion of the housing 102, which permit air to enter the housing 102.

[0110] In such embodiments, the perforated portion may be disposed at or near the upper end 103A of the housing 102. The perforated portion may be, for example, near the upper end 103A of the housing 102 and disposed around the perimeter of the housing 102. This is illustrated by the example shown in Figures 1 to 4 which is shown.

[0111] Alternatively or additionally, the second air inlet 104 may be defined by a plurality of holes in another perforated portion of the housing 102, which permit air to enter the housing 102.

[0112] In such embodiments, the another perforated portion may be disposed at or near the lower end 103B of the housing 102. The another perforated portion may be, for example, near the lower end 103A of the housing 102 and disposed around the perimeter of the housing 102. This is illustrated by the example shown in Figures 1 to 4 which is shown.

[0113] More generally, the first air inlet 104 may be disposed around the perimeter of the housing 102 such that air enters the housing 102 via the first air inlet 104 from the forward direction, the backward direction, and the lateral direction. Thus, air can be inhaled into the first air inlet 104 from around the air displacement apparatus 100 along a plurality of radial directions.

[0114] In some embodiments, the lateral direction(s) along which air enters the housing 102 via the first air inlet 104 includes a lateral direction perpendicular to each of the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0115] The first air inlet 104 may be disposed around the perimeter of the housing 102 such that air enters the housing 102 along the forward direction and the backward direction, a first lateral direction, and a second lateral direction opposite to the first lateral direction.

[0116] In such embodiments, the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction may each include a lateral direction perpendicular to the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0117] In some embodiments, the first air inlet 104 substantially surrounds the entire perimeter of the housing 102, such that at least 70% of the perimeter of the housing 102 is provided. Accordingly, 360-degree air suction can be provided. In this way, air in the room can be effectively drawn into the housing 102 via the first air inlet 104.

[0118] Alternatively or additionally, the second air inlet 106 is provided around the perimeter of the housing 102 such that air enters the housing 102 via the second air inlet 106 from the forward direction, the backward direction, and the lateral direction.

[0119] In some embodiments, the lateral direction(s) along which air enters the housing 102 via the second air inlet 106 includes a lateral direction perpendicular to each of the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0120] The second air inlet 106 may be provided around the perimeter of the housing 102 similar to the first air inlet 104, for example, such that air enters the housing 102 along the forward direction and the backward direction, the first lateral direction, and the second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction.

[0121] In such embodiments, the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction may each include a lateral direction perpendicular to the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0122] In some embodiments, the second air inlet 106 may substantially surround the entire perimeter of the housing 102 similar to the first air inlet 104, such as at least 70% of the perimeter of the housing 102 is provided. Accordingly, 360-degree air suction can be provided. In this way, air in the room can be effectively drawn into the housing 102 via the second air inlet 106.

[0123] In some embodiments, when the air displacement appliance 100 is oriented for use, the first air inlet 104 is disposed at or near the upper end 103A of the housing 102, and the second air inlet 106 is disposed at or near the lower end 103B of the housing 102. Accordingly, air suction can be from the upper end 103A and the lower end 103B, drawing air from the upper region of the room via the air inlet of the first air inlet 104, and drawing air from the lower region of the room via the air inlet of the second air inlet 106.

[0124] Such an arrangement of the first air inlet 104 and the second air inlet 106 at or near the upper end 103A and the lower end 103B of the housing 102 respectively can be combined with the first air inlet 104 and the second air inlet 106, both of which are provided around the perimeter of the housing 102 such that air enters the housing 102 via the first air inlet 104 and the second air inlet 106 from the forward direction, the backward direction, and the lateral directions. This has been found to provide a particularly effective air inlet arrangement.

[0125] When determining the percentage of the perimeter of the housing 102 that provides the first air inlet 104 or the second air inlet 106, the width of each hole through which air enters the housing 102 around the perimeter of the housing 102 can be measured and summed, and the sum divided by the perimeter and multiplied by 100.

[0126] In the case where the hole(s) have an uneven width, the maximum width of each hole can be used for the percentage determination.

[0127] In some embodiments, the elongate housing 102 has a circular or substantially circular cross-sectional shape such that the elongate housing 102 is cylindrical or substantially cylindrical.

[0128] The term "substantially circular cross-sectional shape" can refer to an oval cross-sectional shape.

[0129] In such embodiments, and as Figure 2 best shown in, the front portion 109A and the rear portion 109B of the housing 102 can be separated from each other by the diameter of the cylindrical or substantially cylindrical housing 102. In such embodiments, the side portions 110A, 110B can include or correspond to portions of the circumference of the housing 102 that curve between the front portion 109A and the rear portion 109B.

[0130] In other embodiments, the elongate housing 102 has a polygonal cross-sectional shape, such as a polygonal cross-sectional shape with rounded vertices.

[0131] In some embodiments, the elongate housing 102 has a soft triangular cross-sectional shape, where one side of the soft triangular shape corresponds to the front portion of the housing 102, and the other two sides correspond to the side portion and the rear portion of the housing 102 respectively.

[0132] Other cross-sectional shapes can also be considered, such as a soft square or a soft rectangular cross-sectional shape. Such a soft square or soft rectangular cross-sectional shape of the elongate housing 102 can mean that the elongate housing 102 is substantially cubic.

[0133] It should be noted that in the context of such a soft polygonal cross-sectional shape of the housing 102, the term "soft" can refer to a polygonal cross-sectional shape having rounded vertices.

[0134] Air can enter the first air inlet 104 forward via the front portion 104A of the first air inlet 104 provided at the front portion 109A of the housing 102, where air enters the first air inlet 104 backward via the rear portion of the first air inlet 104 provided at the rear portion 109B of the housing 102, and air enters the first air inlet 104 laterally via the side portion(s) 104C, 104D of the first air inlet 104 provided at the side portion(s) 110A, 110B of the housing 102, which side portion extends (e.g., bends) between the front portion 109A and the rear portion 109B. An example in this regard is shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 illustrated.

[0135] Similarly, air can enter the second air inlet 106 forward via the front portion 106A of the second air inlet 106 provided at the front portion 109A of the housing 102, where air enters the second air inlet 106 backward via the rear portion of the second air inlet 106 provided at the rear portion 109B of the housing 102, and air enters the second air inlet 106 laterally via the side portion(s) 106C, 106D of the second air inlet 106 provided at the side portion(s) 110A, 110B of the housing 102, which side portion extends (e.g., bends) between the front portion 109A and the rear portion 109B. An example in this regard is shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 illustrated.

[0136] More generally, referring again to Figure 1 , the air displacement device 100 includes a first impeller 116 that is arranged such that air from the first air inlet 104 is axially drawn into the first impeller 116 and discharged radially from the first impeller 116. The air displacement device 100 further includes a second impeller 118 that is arranged such that air from the second air inlet 106 is axially drawn into the second impeller 118 and discharged radially from the second impeller 118. The air displacement provided by the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 is represented by four arrows 119 in Figure 1 illustrated.

[0137] In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4 , the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 are arranged in an intermediate region along the length of the elongated housing 102 between the first end 103A and the second end 103B.

[0138] By arranging the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118, for example, and a motor (or motors) 128 for rotating the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 in an intermediate region along the length of the housing 102, the center of gravity of the air displacement apparatus 100 can be reduced, thereby reducing the vibration of the air displacement apparatus 100.

[0139] With the air displacement apparatus 100 including the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118, the first impeller 116 sucks in air from the first air inlet 104, and the second impeller 118 sucks in air from the second air inlet 106. Compared with a single-impeller design, the air flow velocity of the air displacement apparatus 100 can be effectively doubled. In addition, when compared with a single fan having a size corresponding to the total size of the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118, a lower sound level can be achieved at the same flow rate.

[0140] As Figure 1 shown by the arrow 119, the air discharged radially from the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 leaves the housing 102 through the air outlet 108.

[0141] The air outlet 108 is provided around the perimeter of the housing 102 such that air leaves the housing 102 through the air outlet 108 in the forward direction, the backward direction, and the lateral direction. Thus, the air displacement apparatus 100 can relatively uniformly disperse air in the room in which the air displacement apparatus 100 operates in a relatively short time, for example, compared with a situation where air leaves the housing 102 in fewer directions, such as only in one direction. In other words, when air is supplied to the room from fewer directions (e.g., only from one direction), it may take a longer time for the air to uniformly diffuse in the room. However, due to the Figures 1 to 4 forward air outlets, backward air outlets, and lateral air outlets of the air outlet 108 of the air displacement apparatus 100 shown, fresh air can diffuse to a wider area in a shorter time.

[0142] Directing the air flow to the forward direction, the backward direction, and the lateral direction can also improve the user's comfort compared with a situation where the air flow is directed to fewer directions (such as only the forward direction and the backward direction). This is because distributing the air flow in more directions can reduce the risk that users located along such directions are subjected to uncomfortable high-speed air flows.

[0143] In other words, for a given flow rate, when air is supplied from a narrower air outlet, the air velocity can be higher, and the narrower air outlet allows air to leave the housing 102 in fewer directions, such as only in one direction. Since air from Figures 1 to 4The air outlets 108 of the air displacement device 100 are shown as forward outlets, rearward outlets, and side outlets, and the air leaves the housing 102 via the air outlets 108 having relatively large areas. Such large-area air outlets 108 can enable the air displacement device 100 to deliver lower air velocities, and note that air velocity = flow rate / flow cross-sectional area. This can help reduce the risk of a user being disturbed by relatively high air velocities.

[0144] Furthermore, in systems that deliver air in fewer directions, such as in a single direction, it is more likely that air delivery sections of the system will be closed, and the performance of the system may be significantly affected. Placing such a system in a corner of a room may mean that the entire area of ​​the air supply may be closed relatively easily, causing serious damage to the performance of the system.

[0145] By arranging the air outlets 108 around the perimeter of the housing 102 so that air exits the housing 102 in forward, rearward and sideways directions, the risk of blockage of the air outlets 108 and the attendant disruption to airflow may be reduced.

[0146] refer to Figures 2 to 4 , air can leave the air outlet 108 forward via the front portion 108A of the air outlet 108 set at the front portion 109A of the shell 102, wherein the air leaves the air outlet 108 backward via the rear portion 108B of the air outlet 108 set at the rear portion 109B of the shell 102, and the air leaves the air outlet 108 laterally via the side portions (one or more) 108C, 108D of the air outlet 108 set at the side portions (one or more) 110A, 110B of the shell 102, and the side portions extend (for example, bend) between the front portion 109A and the rear portion 109B.

[0147] The lateral direction(s) along which air exits the housing 102 via the air outlet 108 may include a lateral direction that is perpendicular to each of the forward direction and the rearward direction.

[0148] In some embodiments, the air outlets 108 are disposed around the perimeter of the housing 102 such that air exits the housing 102 in a forward and rearward direction, a first lateral direction, and a second lateral direction away from the first lateral direction.

[0149] By directing air in both the forward direction, the rearward direction, and the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction, the design of the air outlet 108 can help to enhance the diffusion of air relatively evenly in the room where the air replacement device 100 operates in a relatively short period of time, and help to provide lower air velocities and reduce the risk of disturbing air flow caused by blockage of the air outlet 108.

[0150] In some embodiments, each of the first lateral direction and the second lateral direction includes a lateral direction perpendicular to the forward direction and the backward direction.

[0151] In some embodiments, the air outlet 108 substantially surrounds the entire perimeter of the housing 102, e.g., at least 70% of the perimeter of the housing 102 is provided.

[0152] By providing the air outlet 108 substantially around the entire perimeter of the housing 102, air can exit the housing 102 from all radial directions, e.g., via the 360-degree fully open air outlet 108. This can help to enhance the relatively uniform diffusion of air in the room in which the air displacement apparatus 100 operates in a relatively short period of time. In other words, the air delivered via the air outlet 108 can be dispersed into the room more quickly because the 360-degree open air outlet 108 effectively shortens the distance that the air needs to travel.

[0153] Due to the 360-degree open air outlet 108, the operation of the air displacement apparatus 100 is less likely to be adversely affected by the way the user uses the air displacement apparatus 100 (e.g., being positioned in the room). This is because the 360-degree open air outlet can mean that a complete closure (e.g., an unintentional closure) of the entire air outlet is impossible, thus helping to ensure the consistent performance of the air displacement apparatus 100, which is minimally affected by the way the air displacement apparatus 100 is used.

[0154] For example, if the air displacement apparatus 100 is placed in a corner of the room, it may not be able to effectively deliver air from the 90-degree portion of the air outlet 108, but can still effectively deliver air from the remaining 270-degree portion of the air outlet 108. Thus, the 360-degree open air outlet 108 can help to minimize the performance impaired by such positioning of the air displacement apparatus 100 in the room.

[0155] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1 to 4 as shown, the air outlet 108 is defined by a grille portion of the housing 102, and a plurality of slots of the grille portion permit air to exit the housing 102.

[0156] When determining the percentage of the perimeter of the housing 102 provided with the air outlet 108, the width of each aperture (one or more) (e.g., slot) through which air exits the housing 102 around the perimeter of the housing 102 can be measured and summed, and the sum is divided by the perimeter and multiplied by 100.

[0157] In the case where the aperture (one or more) (e.g., slot) has a non-uniform width (one or more), the maximum width of each aperture can be used for the percentage determination.

[0158] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1 to 4 the embodiment shown, the first air inlet 104 is disposed at or near the first end 103A, the second air inlet 106 is disposed at or near the second end 103B, and the air outlet 108 is disposed in a central region along the length of the elongate housing 102 between the first air inlet 104 and the second air inlet 106.

[0159] Accordingly, the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 can draw air into the housing 102 from opposite ends 103A, 103B of the air displacement apparatus 100, and the air leaving the air displacement apparatus 100 can exit from a central region between the opposite ends 103A, 103B. It has been found that this provides effective air displacement performance in combination with a relatively compact design. In particular, such an arrangement can help to maximize the suction and air supply area. Due to such a relatively large area, the speed can be reduced, and a relatively quiet air displacement apparatus 100 can be obtained accordingly (note that a lower speed can result in a lower sound level).

[0160] The air displacement apparatus 100 may include one or more outlet grilles disposed in the air outlet 108. In such embodiments, the one or more outlet grilles may be arranged to deflect the air leaving the air outlet 108. For example, the one or more outlet grilles may be arranged to provide an upward or downward deflection of the air leaving the air outlet 108 in the forward, backward, and lateral directions.

[0161] In some embodiments, the one or more outlet grilles are adjustable to be able to select the angle by which the air leaving the air outlet 108 is deflected by the one or more outlet grilles.

[0162] In some embodiments, a non-uniformly distributed outlet grille may be provided around the air outlet 108. In such embodiments, when the air exits the housing 102 in the forward, backward, and lateral directions, for example to provide 360-degree air distribution, the air may be delivered more densely in some regions and less densely in other regions. In this way, if the user wants to receive denser air, he or she can rotate the air displacement apparatus 100 so that they face a part of the air outlet 108 with fewer outlet grilles, in other words, a part where the outlet grilles are spaced wider apart from each other. If the user wants to receive less air, he or she can rotate the air displacement apparatus 100 so that they face a different part of the air outlet 108 with more outlet grilles, in other words, a part where the outlet grilles are spaced more frequently / closely apart from each other.

[0163] As Figure 1As shown, the first impeller 116 may have a first periphery 120 from which air is discharged radially from the first impeller 116, and the second impeller 118 may have a second periphery 122 from which air is discharged radially from the second impeller 118. In such embodiments, the air outlet 108 is preferably aligned with the first periphery 120 and the second periphery 122.

[0164] By aligning the air outlet 108 with the first periphery 120 and the second periphery 122, the air discharged radially from the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 can directly leave the housing 102. Thus, between the peripheries 120, 122 of either or both of the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 and the air outlet 108, a volute for pressurizing the air discharged from the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 may not be required. In other words, the volute housing may be omitted.

[0165] Continuing to refer Figure 1 to, the air displacement apparatus 100 may include at least one motor 128 that is arranged to rotate the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118.

[0166] For the at least one motor 128, any suitable type of motor 128 may be considered, such as a brushless motor 128. The brushless motor 128 may help to make the operation of the air displacement apparatus 100 quieter. Other types of motors 128 may be used.

[0167] In some embodiments, the motor(s) 128 that rotate the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 may be mounted via an elastic mounting member(s) (not visible) that is arranged to inhibit the transfer of vibration from the motor(s) 128 to the housing 102.

[0168] In such embodiments, the elastic mounting member(s) may include a shock-absorbing portion placed on the motor mounting feet, such as a rubber shock-absorbing portion, through which the motor(s) 128 are mounted to the housing 102.

[0169] It should be noted that the energy consumption of the air displacement appliance 100 can depend on the fan efficiency and motor efficiency of the motor(s) 128 that rotate the rotatable first impeller 116 and second impeller 118. The fan efficiency value can vary depending on the impeller design. This value can be equal to the ratio of the hydraulic power generated to the mechanical power. When compared to a single-fan design of the same volume, the dual-impeller design can provide a larger suction area, corresponding to suction from two separate regions (instead of from a single region as in the case of a single-fan design). The larger suction area can increase the fan efficiency. Additionally, in the case of a single-fan design, the air velocity can be relatively high, especially in the single suction zone, and in the case of a single-fan design, the fan efficiency can be correspondingly low. For these reasons, compared to a single-fan design, the dual-impeller 116, 118 design can provide a more efficient air displacement appliance 100. This more efficient air displacement appliance 100 can provide comparable performance relative to a single-fan design and consume less energy.

[0170] In some embodiments (not visible), at least one motor 128 includes a first motor for rotating the first impeller 116 and a second motor for rotating the second impeller 118. In such embodiments, the first motor and the second motor can be controlled independently of each other, such as such that the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 can rotate at different rotational speeds relative to each other.

[0171] Alternatively, and as Figure 1 shown, the air displacement appliance 100 can include a motor 128, in other words, a common motor 128, which is arranged to rotate the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118.

[0172] The air displacement appliance 100 that includes a common motor 128 that rotates the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 can have advantages in terms of size, cost, and energy consumption.

[0173] The air displacement appliance 100 can be made more compact, and the design complexity and cost can be reduced, for example, relative to an embodiment in which a first motor rotates the first impeller 116 and a second motor rotates the second impeller 118. A design that includes two motors can require a larger space to accommodate the two motors, and the two motors can require separate motor controller outputs. Thus, compared to an embodiment in which a common motor 128 rotates the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118, the dual-motor design can be more complex and costly.

[0174] In some embodiments, the motor 128 is sandwiched between the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118, wherein the drive shafts 130A, 130B of the motor 128 include a first drive shaft portion 130A and a second drive shaft portion 130B, the first drive shaft portion extending from the motor 128 to the first impeller 116, and the second drive shaft portion extending from the motor 128 to the second impeller 118 in a direction opposite to the first drive shaft portion 130A.

[0175] Sandwiching the motor 128 between the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 in this way can help provide a relatively compact and robust design for the air displacement appliance 100.

[0176] Due to this positioning of the motor 128, it is possible to operate the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118 with a relatively simple geometry.

[0177] If the motor 128 is not positioned between the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118, the length of the shaft extending from the motor 128 may need to be increased, thereby increasing the torsion of the shaft and shortening the lifespan of the air displacement appliance 100.

[0178] In addition, if the motor 128 is positioned in the airflow path rather than between the first impeller 116 and the second impeller 118, the motor 128 can obstruct the airflow and cause an additional pressure drop, along with a reduction in the efficiency of the air displacement appliance 100, because more energy may be required to provide a given airflow from the air outlet 108.

[0179] In some embodiments, the air displacement appliance 100 includes an air treatment system configured to treat the air displaced by the air displacement appliance 100.

[0180] The air treatment system can include one or more of the following: an air purification system, such as including filter assemblies 132, 134, which are arranged to purify the air displaced by the air displacement appliance 100; an air heating system arranged to heat the air displaced by the air displacement appliance 100; an air cooling system arranged to cool the air displaced by the air displacement appliance 100; an air humidification system arranged to humidify the air displaced by the air displacement appliance 100; an air dehumidification system arranged to dehumidify the air displaced by the air displacement appliance 100; and a fragrance emitting unit arranged to emit fragrance into the air displaced by the air displacement appliance 100.

[0181] As Figure 1As shown, the air displacement appliance 100 may include filter assemblies 132, 134 for filtering the air displaced by the air displacement appliance 100.

[0182] The filter assemblies 132, 134 may include, for example, high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter materials.

[0183] Alternatively or additionally, the filter assemblies 132, 134 may include gas removal materials.

[0184] Examples of gas removal materials include activated carbon, porous and gas absorbing materials such as zeolites and metal organic frameworks.

[0185] In some embodiments, the HEPA and activated carbon layers included in the filter assemblies 132, 134 may be arranged separately or in a sandwich form. The filter assemblies 132, 134 may also have a pre-filter structure.

[0186] In some embodiments, and as Figure 1 shown, the filter assemblies 132, 134 include a first filter 132, wherein the first filter 132 and the first impeller 116 are arranged such that: before the filtered air is axially inhaled into the first impeller 116 and radially discharged from the first impeller 116, the air from the first air inlet 104 is inhaled through the first filter 132.

[0187] Alternatively or additionally, the filter assemblies 132, 134 may include a second filter 134, wherein the second filter 134 and the second impeller 118 are arranged such that: before the filtered air is axially inhaled into the second impeller 118 and radially discharged from the second impeller 118, the air from the second air inlet 106 is inhaled through the second filter 134.

[0188] In embodiments where the air displacement appliance 100 includes a first filter 132 and a second filter 134, including the two filters 132, 134 may mean that the first filter 132 and the second filter 134 having different filtering characteristics relative to each other may be used.

[0189] For example, one of the first filter 132 and the second filter 134 may include a filter configured to mitigate pet odors, while the other of the first filter 132 and the second filter 134 may include a filter configured to mitigate cooking odors.

[0190] Based on the study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments when practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

[0191] The fact that certain measures are recited only in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0192] If the term "adapted to" is used in a claim or the specification, it should be noted that the term "adapted to" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to". If the term "means" is used in a claim or the specification, it should be noted that the term "means" is intended to be equivalent to the term "system", and vice versa.

[0193] Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An air displacement apparatus (100), comprising: A housing (102) defining a first air inlet (104), a second air inlet (106), and an air outlet (108); A first impeller (116) arranged such that air from the first air inlet is axially drawn into the first impeller and discharged radially from the first impeller; A second impeller (118) arranged such that air from the second air inlet is axially drawn into the second impeller and discharged radially from the second impeller, the air outlet being arranged to permit the air discharged radially from the first impeller and from the second impeller to pass through the air outlet to leave the housing, wherein the air outlet is provided around the perimeter of the housing such that the air leaves the housing in a forward direction, a backward direction, and a lateral direction; and characterized in that: The air displacement apparatus (100) further comprises a motor (128) sandwiched between the first impeller (116) and the second impeller (118) and rotating the first impeller (116) and the second impeller (118), the drive shafts (130A, 130B) of the motor including a first drive shaft portion (130A) and a second drive shaft portion (130B), the first drive shaft portion extending from the motor to the first impeller, and the second drive shaft portion extending from the motor in an opposite direction relative to the first drive shaft portion to the second impeller.

2. The air displacement apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the air outlet (108) is provided around the perimeter of the housing (102) such that the air leaves the housing in the forward direction and the backward direction, a first lateral direction, and a second lateral direction away from the first lateral direction.

3. The air displacement apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the air outlet (108) is provided substantially around the entire perimeter of the housing (102).

4. The air displacement apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first impeller (116) has a first perimeter (120) from which air is discharged radially from the first impeller, and the second impeller (118) has a second perimeter (122) from which air is discharged radially from the second impeller, the air outlet (108) being aligned with the first perimeter and the second perimeter.

5. The air displacement apparatus (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the housing (102) is an elongated housing, the length of the elongated housing extending from a first end (103A) of the housing to a second end (103B) of the housing.

6. The air displacement appliance (100) according to claim 5, wherein the first impeller (116) and the second impeller (118) are arranged in an intermediate region along the length of the housing (102) between the first end (103A) and the second end (103B).

7. The air displacement appliance (100) according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the first air inlet (104) is arranged at or near the first end (103A), the second air inlet (106) is arranged at or near the second end (103B), and the air outlet (108) is arranged in a central region along the length of the housing (102) between the first air inlet and the second air inlet.

8. The air displacement appliance (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first air inlet (104) is provided around the perimeter of the housing (102) such that air enters the housing via the first air inlet from forward, backward, and lateral directions; and / or wherein the first air inlet is provided at the end (103A) of the housing.

9. The air displacement appliance (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second air inlet (106) is provided around the perimeter of the housing (102) such that air enters the housing via the second air inlet from forward, backward, and lateral directions; and / or wherein the second air inlet is provided at the end (103B) of the housing.

10. The air displacement appliance (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising an air treatment system configured to treat the air displaced by the air displacement appliance.

11. The air displacement appliance (100) according to claim 10, wherein the air treatment system is a filter assembly (132, 134) comprising a first filter (132) and a second filter (134) for filtering the air displaced by the air displacement appliance.

12. The air displacement appliance (100) according to claim 10, wherein the air treatment system is a core and water tank assembly (132, 134) comprising a first core and water tank (132) and a second core and water tank (134) for supplying moisture.

13. The air displacement appliance (100) according to claim 10, wherein the air treatment system is a filter and a core and water tank assembly comprising a first filter for filtering air and a second core and water tank for supplying moisture.

14. The air displacement appliance (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the first filter (132) or the first core and water tank (132) and the first impeller (116) are arranged such that: before the filtered air or humid air is axially drawn into the first impeller and discharged radially from the first impeller, air from the first air inlet (104) is drawn through the first filter or the first core and water tank.

15. The air displacement appliance (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the second filter (134) or the second core and water tank (134) and the second impeller (118) are arranged such that: before the filtered air or humid air is axially drawn into the second impeller and discharged radially from the second impeller, air from the second air inlet (106) is drawn through the second filter or the second core and water tank.

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