Humidifier

Abstract

The invention relates to a humidifier. The humidifier according to the present invention comprises: an inner water tank in which a space for storing water is formed, the upper side of the inner water tank being open; an outer water tank forming a space for accommodating the inner water tank; the handle is configured to be fixed at the upper end part of the inner water tank; and a water tank seal disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the handle and in contact with the upper end of the outer water tank.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a humidifier, and more particularly, to a humidifier capable of supplying water to an upper portion. BACKGROUND

[0002] A humidifier is a device that vaporizes water and discharges humidified air having a high moisture content.

[0003] The humidifier can be configured to have a water tank storing water positioned below the humidifier. Alternatively, the humidifier can be configured to have a water tank positioned at an upper portion of the humidifier, and a flow path for air to flow formed along a peripheral edge of the water tank.

[0004] Korean Registered Patent KR10-2667526B1 also discloses a structure in which a water tank is positioned at an upper portion and a flow path is formed along a peripheral edge of the water tank. However, in the case where air flows along the peripheral edge of the water tank, water vapor (water droplets) can be generated on the outer wall of the water tank due to a temperature difference with water stored in the interior. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application is directed to overcoming the above problems and other problems.

[0006] That is, a humidifier that prevents water vapor (water droplets) caused by a temperature difference from being generated on a flow path side where air flows is provided.

[0007] The humidifier of the present application can reduce a temperature difference between the interior of a water tank and a flow path through a double contact structure of the water tank. However, water can be generated between the water tanks of the double contact structure. In addition, in the case where air flows between the water tanks of the double contact structure, such water can be actively generated.

[0008] Another object of the present application is to solve such a problem.

[0009] In addition, a problem in which water discharged from a water tank flows out between the double-joined water tanks can occur.

[0010] Still another object of the present application is to solve such a problem.

[0011] To achieve the above object, a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present application includes an inner water tank in which a space storing water is formed in an interior thereof, an upper side of the inner water tank being open; an outer water tank forming a space in which the inner water tank is accommodated; a handle configured to be fixed to an upper end portion of the inner water tank; and a water tank sealing member configured to be positioned on an outer side peripheral surface of the handle, and to be in contact with an upper end portion of the outer water tank.

[0012] The water tank sealing member includes a contact portion in contact with the handle; an extension portion extending from an upper end of the contact portion in an outward direction; and a sealing portion extending downward from an end portion of the extension portion.

[0013] The sealing portion is in a shape protruding to the outside.

[0014] The outer water tank has a thickness greater than that of the inner water tank.

[0015] A connector is connected to the inner water tank and transfers water stored in the inner water tank to a humidifying module. A lower hole through which the connector passes is formed in a lower surface of the inner water tank. A through hole through which the connector passes is formed in a lower surface of the outer water tank. The connector is configured to contact the inner water tank and the outer water tank, respectively.

[0016] A gasket is included in the lower surface of the inner water tank and is configured to contact the connector at a periphery of the lower hole.

[0017] An outer gasket configured to contact the outer water tank is included in the connector.

[0018] The connector includes a connector body configured to pass through the lower hole and a connector holder configured to contact the connector body at an outside of the inner water tank.

[0019] When the connector holder contacts the connector body, the connector contacts the inner water tank and the outer water tank to seal the lower hole and the through hole.

[0020] An upper surface of the connector holder contacts a lower surface of the inner water tank. A peripheral surface of the connector holder contacts the outer water tank.

[0021] A gasket is included in the lower surface of the inner water tank and is configured to contact the connector at a periphery of the lower hole. The gasket contacts the connector body.

[0022] An outer gasket configured to contact the outer water tank is included in the peripheral surface of the connector holder.

[0023] A lower edge extending downward from a periphery of the through hole is included in the lower surface of the outer water tank. An inner protrusion protruding inward and contacting the outer gasket is included in an inner peripheral surface of the lower edge.

[0024] An inner shell is included and is configured to be spaced apart from a periphery of the outer water tank and to form an exhaust flow path for humidified air to flow between the inner shell and the outer water tank.

[0025] An upper edge protruding upward from a periphery of a shell through hole formed below the through hole is included in a lower surface of the inner shell.

[0026] The upper edge is configured to be at a periphery of the lower edge.

[0027] The upper edge is in contact with a lower surface of the inner protrusion.

[0028] Details of other embodiments are contained in the DETAILED DESCRIPTION and the drawings.

[0029] The humidifier according to the present application has one or more of the following effects.

[0030] First, the inner tank and the outer tank are configured to be in contact with each other. In addition, a tank seal is provided at upper end portions of the inner tank and the outer tank, thereby preventing air or water from flowing into the inner tank and the outer tank.

[0031] Second, a connector combined with the inner tank is combined with the inner tank and the outer tank in a sealed structure. With this structure, water discharged from the inner tank can be prevented from flowing between the inner tank and the outer tank.

[0032] Third, a discharge flow path for humidified air to flow is formed between the outer tank and the inner housing. With the structure of the connector, the structure of the inner housing, and the structure of the outer tank, humidified air flowing in the discharge flow path can be prevented from flowing into the outer tank.

[0033] Effects of the present application are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the recitation of the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0035] Figure 2 is a plan view of Figure 1

[0036] Figure 3 is a sectional view taken along line Figure 2

[0037] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an inner tank according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0038] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a handle according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0039] Figure 6 is a side sectional view of Figure 5

[0040] Figure 7 is a plan view of a handle according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0041] Figure 8 is a plan view of a handle according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0042] Figure 9 ​​​is a perspective view of a sink cover according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0043] Figure 10 is Figure 9 a side sectional view.

[0044] Figure 11 is a view for explaining an embodiment in which the sink cover according to an embodiment of the present application is placed above a handle.

[0045] Figure 12 is a view for explaining another embodiment in which the sink cover according to an embodiment of the present application is placed above a handle.

[0046] Figure 13 is a sectional view of an inner sink according to an embodiment of the present application installed in a state in which the inner sink is installed in an outer sink.

[0047] Figure 14 is a sectional view of a sink according to an embodiment of the present application in which a connector is installed in a state in which the sink is disposed inside an inner case.

[0048] Figure 15 is a sectional view of a part of an upper portion of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] The advantages and features of the present application and a method of achieving them will become apparent from the following embodiments described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present application is not limited to the following disclosed embodiments, but can be implemented in various different ways. The present embodiments are provided merely to make the present disclosure complete and to give a full scope of the present application to those skilled in the art to which the present application pertains. The present application is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout the specification, like drawing reference numerals refer to like constituent elements.

[0050] Hereinafter, the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings for explaining a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0051] The humidifier of the present application can generate humidified air by ultrasonically vibrating water. The humidifier of the present application can generate humidified air by heating water. The humidifier of the present application can generate humidified air generated by ultrasonic vibration and humidified air generated by heating.

[0052] Referring to Figure 1 , an appearance of the humidifier of the present application will be described.

[0053] The humidifier includes a case 10 that forms an appearance and is formed with an inlet 24a and an outlet 12a.

[0054] The case 10 can have a cylindrical shape as a whole.

[0055] The housing 10 may include: an intake grille 24 forming an inlet 24a for air inflow; and an exhaust grille 12 forming an outlet 12a for air outflow. The inlet 24a may be formed on the circumferential surface of the cylindrical housing 10. The outlet 12a may be formed on the upper surface of the cylindrical housing 10. In the humidifier of the present invention, air can flow in along the circumferential surface and be exhausted from the upper surface.

[0056] The intake grille 24 is provided with a plurality of grilles 24b extending in the vertical direction. The plurality of grilles 24b can be spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the intake grille 24. A plurality of inlets 24a can be formed between the plurality of grilles 24b.

[0057] The housing 10 may include a water tank cover 14 disposed on the upper side of the water tank 100.

[0058] The humidifier may include an outlet grille 12 forming an outlet 12a and a water tank cover 14 disposed on the upper side of the water tank 100.

[0059] The discharge grille 12 may have a structure that separates from the outer casing 22 described later. The trough cover 14 may have a structure that separates from the discharge grille 12 or the trough 100 described later.

[0060] The discharge grille 12 may include a plurality of ribs 12b extending radially from the outer periphery of the sink cover 14. The plurality of ribs 12b disposed on the discharge grille 12 may be spaced apart circumferentially from the outer periphery of the sink cover 14.

[0061] The housing 10 may include an outer shell 22 that directs the air flowing inside to the outlet 12a.

[0062] The housing 22 includes an upper housing 22a disposed below the discharge grille 12 and a lower housing 22b disposed below the upper housing 22a. The lower housing 22b may be formed of a transparent material.

[0063] The humidifier may include a base 28 disposed on the underside of the housing 10, thereby separating the housing 10 from the ground by a predetermined interval. The upper end of the base 28 may be connected to the lower end of the housing 10.

[0064] The following is for reference Figure 2 The upper part of the humidifier will be explained.

[0065] The sink cover 14 may include a central cover 16 and a peripheral cover 18 disposed along the periphery of the central cover 16. The central cover 16 may have a structure that protrudes upward in a central direction. A water supply hole 20 may be formed between the peripheral cover 18 and the central cover 16 to supply water to the interior of the sink 100.

[0066] It can form a plurality of ribs 12b and a plurality of outlets 12a configured on the discharge grille 12.

[0067] The following is for reference Figure 3 The internal structure of the humidifier will be explained.

[0068] The humidifier includes a filter device disposed inside the housing 10 and filtering air flowing in from the inlet 24a. The humidifier also includes an air supply device 60 disposed inside the housing 10 and causing air inside the housing 10 to flow from the inlet 24a to the outlet 12a. The humidifier includes a water tank 100 disposed inside the housing 10 and storing water. Finally, the humidifier includes a humidification module that receives water from the water tank 100 and generates humidified air.

[0069] The humidifier may include a base 28. The base 28 may space the housing upwards from the ground. The base 28 may be connected to the lower wall 26 of the housing 10.

[0070] The housing 10 may include a lower wall 26 that covers the lower side of the intake grille 24.

[0071] The upper end of the base 28 can be connected to the lower wall 26. The lower wall 26 is configured to cover the lower surface of the humidifier, which is separated from the ground and upward by the base 28.

[0072] The intake grille 24 can cover the outer side of the filter 50 and the air supply shroud 68, which will be described later. A plurality of inlets 24a can be formed in the intake grille 24, the inlets 24a being formed vertically and spaced apart circumferentially. The inlets 24a can be formed around the location where the filter 50 is disposed. The inlets 24a can be formed in the lower part of the intake grille 24. The upper part of the intake grille 24 can be sealed to protect the internal structure of the humidifier.

[0073] A housing 22 may be configured on the upper part of the intake grille 24.

[0074] The filtration device can use filter 50 to filter the air flowing in through inlet 24a. The filtration device can cause the filtered air to flow upwards.

[0075] The filtration device includes a filter 50 for filtering air flowing in from the inlet 24a and a filter mounting section that fixes the filter 50 inside the housing 10.

[0076] The filter 50 can be cylindrical. Therefore, the filter 50 can filter air drawn in from the front, back, left, and right directions perpendicular to the vertical direction. Air flowing in from the inlet 24a can flow into the inner space of the filter 50. Air that has passed through the filter 50 can flow towards the air supply device 60 disposed above the filter 50.

[0077] The filter mounting section includes a lower plate 52 disposed on the lower side of the filter 50, an upper plate 54 disposed on the upper side of the filter 50, and a support member (not shown) connecting the lower plate 52 and the upper plate 54.

[0078] The lower plate 52 is disposed below the filter 50. The lower plate 52 can move up and down and sense whether the filter 50 is disposed. A fan sterilization device 53 that irradiates ultraviolet light upwards can be disposed at the center of the lower plate 52.

[0079] The fan sterilization device 53 can sterilize the inside of the air supply fan 62 or the filter 50, which will be described later.

[0080] An orifice 56 is formed in the upper plate 54. The orifice 56 may be formed in the center of the upper plate 54. The orifice 56 allows air flowing into the inside of the filter 50 to flow toward the blower fan 62. The inner peripheral end of the upper plate 54 may be curved upward, thereby guiding the air flowing upward from the inside of the filter 50 toward the blower fan 62.

[0081] Support member 58 can connect lower plate 52 and upper plate 54. Support member 58 can be spaced apart along the circumferential direction.

[0082] The air supply device 60 includes an air supply fan 62 that forms an airflow inside the housing 10 and a fan motor 64 that rotates the air supply fan 62.

[0083] The blower fan 62 can form a fan intake on one side of the orifice 56, and the blower fan 62 can form a fan exhaust in the opposite direction to the fan intake. The blower fan 62 can be used as a diagonal flow fan with the fan exhaust in the opposite direction to the fan intake in a centrifugal direction. The blower fan 62 may include: a hub connected to a fan motor 64; a shroud configured to be spaced apart from the hub by a predetermined interval to form a fan intake; and blades extending radially to connect the hub and the shroud.

[0084] By operating the blower fan 62, air can be blown upwards and downwards. The blower fan 62 can draw in air from the orifice 56 and expel air into the air supply shroud 68, which is equipped with a diffuser 72.

[0085] The fan motor 64 can be configured on the upper side of the air supply fan 62.

[0086] The air supply device includes: a motor cover 66 that covers the outside of the fan motor 64; and an air supply shroud 68 configured to be radially spaced outward from the motor cover 66 and to guide air flowing through the air supply fan 62 upward.

[0087] An airflow path 70 can be formed between the motor cover 66 and the air supply shroud 68 to allow air to flow upwards via the air supply fan 62. The airflow path 70 can extend to the area where the humidification module shroud 410 and the airflow path shroud 430 are formed.

[0088] An intake grille 24 may be provided on the outside of the air supply hood 68.

[0089] The air supply device 60 includes a diffuser 72 disposed between the motor cover 66 and the air supply shroud 68, which reduces the rotational component of the air flowing upward through the air supply fan 62. A plurality of diffusers 72 may be arranged circumferentially.

[0090] A control box 74 can be disposed on the upper side of the motor cover 66, and a space for a circuit board 76 is formed inside the control box 74. The control box 74 can be configured to be spaced apart from the inside of the air supply shroud 68. Therefore, an air supply path 70 can also be formed in the space between the control box 74 and the air supply shroud 68.

[0091] A plurality of circuit boards 76 may be configured inside the control box 74. The humidification module includes a first humidification water tank 300 for heating water. The humidification module includes a second humidification water tank 350 for generating humidified air using water. The humidification module may include a humidification module cover 410 covering the periphery of the first humidification water tank 300 and the second humidification water tank 350. A flow path cover 430 may be configured on the outer periphery of the humidification module cover 410. An airflow path 70 may be formed between the humidification module cover 410 and the flow path cover 430.

[0092] The humidifier includes: a water tank 100, which forms a space for storing water; an inner shell 180, which forms a space for arranging the water tank 100; and a middle tray 200, which is disposed on the lower side of the inner shell 180.

[0093] The water tank 100 may be configured with an inner water tank 102 inside the outer water tank 160. Therefore, a connector 120 may be configured in the through hole 164 of the outer water tank 160.

[0094] The outer water tank 160 can be disposed on the upper side of the intermediate tray 200, inside the inner shell 180. The intermediate tray 200 can be a structure that supports the inner shell 180, the outer water tank 160, and the inner water tank 102. Thus, the load of the inner water tank 102, the outer water tank 160, and the inner shell 180 can be transferred to the intermediate tray 200.

[0095] The outer water tank 160 is positioned around the outer periphery of the inner water tank 102.

[0096] The inner water tank 102 can be disposed inside the outer water tank 160. When the inner water tank 102 is disposed inside the outer water tank 160, it can be configured such that the outer peripheral surface of the inner water tank 102 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the outer water tank 160.

[0097] The humidifier includes a water softening device 140 disposed inside the inner water tank 102.

[0098] The water softener 140 is disposed inside the inner water tank 102. The water softener 140 can be fixed by connecting it to the connector 120 disposed inside the inner water tank 102.

[0099] The inner shell 180 is separated from the outer water tank 160. The inner shell 180 is separated from the water tank 100. A first discharge path 32 for humidifying airflow is formed between the inner shell 180 and the outer water tank 160.

[0100] A second discharge path 34 is formed between the outer shell 22 and the inner shell 180.

[0101] The inner shell 180 and the outer shell 22 are spaced apart from each other to form a second discharge path 34. Filtered clean air flowing via the air supply device 60 can flow in the second discharge path 34.

[0102] The discharge grille 12 can be configured on the upper side of the first discharge flow path 32 and the upper side of the second discharge flow path 34, which will be described later.

[0103] The discharge grille 12 can be formed at a predetermined height in the vertical direction. Therefore, a mixing flow path 13 can be formed between the plurality of ribs 12b disposed on the discharge grille 12. Air flowing in the first discharge flow path 32 and air flowing in the second discharge flow path 34 can be mixed in the mixing flow path 13.

[0104] Each of the plurality of ribs 12b is formed such that the height of its outer peripheral end is greater than the height of its inner axial end. Therefore, air flowing in the first discharge flow path 32 and the second discharge flow path 34 can be guided radially inward.

[0105] A display screen 30 is provided on one side of the housing 10. The display screen 30 allows the user to adjust the power supply or operation of the humidifier. The display screen 30 may be equipped with a display that can show the user the operating status of the humidifier, etc.

[0106] Reference Figure 4 The inner water tank will be described.

[0107] The inner water tank 102 includes: an inner water tank body 104 forming a space for storing water; and a handle 108, which is attached to the inner water tank body 104. The handle 108 is configured to be fixed to the upper end of the inner water tank body 104.

[0108] A handle 108 is provided at the upper end of the inner water tank 102. The handle 108 is located at the upper end of the inner water tank 102. The handle 108 includes a handle fixing part 112 that is connected to the upper end of the inner water tank 102.

[0109] A water softening device can be installed inside the inner water tank 102. A lower hole 106 is formed on the lower surface of the inner water tank 102 for the flow of water stored inside the inner water tank 102 (see reference). Figure 13 ).

[0110] The inner water tank 102 includes a water tank seal 118 disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the handle 108. The water tank seal 118 contacts the upper end of the outer water tank 160.

[0111] The following is for reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The handle and sink seals are described.

[0112] The handle 108 includes a handle fixing part 112 fixed to the upper end of the inner water tank 102 and a handle rod 110 connecting one side and the other side of the handle fixing part 112.

[0113] The handle fixing part 112 includes an outer side wall 112a disposed on the outer side of the inner water tank 102 and an inner side wall 112b disposed on the inner side of the inner water tank 102.

[0114] An upper groove 112c is formed between the outer side wall 112a and the inner side wall 112b for the upper end of the inner water tank 102 to be inserted.

[0115] A sealing groove 112a1 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer wall 112a, and a water tank seal 118 is disposed in the sealing groove 112a1.

[0116] The sink seal 118 includes a contact portion 118a with the handle fixing portion 112, an extension portion 118b extending outward from the upper end of the contact portion 118a, and a sealing portion 118c extending downward from the end of the extension portion 118b.

[0117] The sealing part 118c may be in a shape that protrudes outward.

[0118] The sealing part 118c can be configured to contact the inner circumferential surface of the outer water tank 160.

[0119] The water tank seal 118 can be formed of a deformable rubber material. Therefore, the shape of the seal 118c can change when it comes into contact with the outer water tank 160.

[0120] A handle bar 110 is provided on one side of the upper surface 113 of the handle fixing part 112.

[0121] The upper surface 113 of the handle fixing part 112 includes: an outer upper surface 113a, which connects the upper end of the outer side wall 112a and the upper end of the inner side wall 112b; and an inner upper surface 113b, which is disposed inside the outer upper surface 113a and forms an inclined surface as it approaches the inner side downward.

[0122] The upper outer surface 113a is positioned above the inner water tank body 104. An upper groove 112c is formed below the upper outer surface 113a.

[0123] A handle 110 may be provided on the inner upper surface 113b.

[0124] A placement groove 114 is formed on the upper surface 113 of the handle fixing part 112. The sink cover 14 can be temporarily placed in the placement groove 114.

[0125] Reference Figure 7 The handle with a placement groove of the first embodiment will be described.

[0126] The handle 108 includes a ring-shaped handle fixing part 112 and a handle bar 110 extending from one side of the handle fixing part 112 to the other side.

[0127] A handle bar 110 is provided on one side of the upper surface 113 of the handle fixing part 112.

[0128] The upper surface 113 of the handle fixing part 112 includes: an outer upper surface 113a, which is disposed above the inner water tank body 104; and an inner upper surface 113b, which is disposed inside the outer upper surface 113a and forms an inclined surface as it approaches the inner side downward.

[0129] A handle 110 may be provided on the inner upper surface 113b.

[0130] A downwardly recessed placement groove 114 is formed on the upper surface 113 of the handle fixing part 112. The sink cover 14 can be placed in the placement groove 114.

[0131] A placement groove 114 is formed at the periphery of the area where the handle bar 110 is disposed. The placement groove 114 extends in a direction parallel to the direction in which the handle bar 110 extends.

[0132] The placement groove 114 can be formed on both sides of the handle 110. The placement groove 114 is formed at both ends of the handle fixing part 112 where the handle 110 is connected.

[0133] A first placement groove 114a is formed around one end of the handle 110, and a second placement groove 114b is formed around the other end of the handle 110.

[0134] The first placement slot 114a and the second placement slot 114b can be formed in the same shape. Therefore, the shape of the placement slot 114 described below can be applied to each of the first placement slot 114a and the second placement slot 114b.

[0135] The placement slot 114 is disposed in two directions perpendicular to the extension direction of the handle 110. The placement slot 114 includes: a first portion 115a disposed in one direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the handle 110; and a second portion 115b disposed in the other direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the handle 110.

[0136] The first part 115a and the second part 115b can be formed with corresponding shapes and sizes based on the handle 110. The length 115L of the first part 115a or the second part 115b formed in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the handle 110 can be greater than the thickness 14D of the sink cover 14 in the vertical direction.

[0137] Reference Figure 8 The upper structure of the inner water tank in the second embodiment will be described.

[0138] The handle 108 includes a handle fixing part 112 and a handle bar 110.

[0139] A placement groove 114 is formed in the handle fixing part 112. The handle fixing part 112 includes a first placement groove 114a formed around one end of the handle bar 110 and a second placement groove 114b formed around the other end of the handle bar 110.

[0140] The first placement groove 114a and the second placement groove 114b are respectively disposed in two directions perpendicular to the extension direction of the handle bar 110. The placement groove 114 includes a first portion 115a disposed in one direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the handle bar 110 and a second portion 115b disposed in the other direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the handle bar 110.

[0141] Each of the first part 115a and the second part 115b includes a separation groove 116b spaced apart from the handle bar 110 and an access groove 116a disposed between the handle bar 110 and the separation groove 116b.

[0142] Approach groove 116a is disposed on one side of handle bar 110. Spacer groove 116b is spaced apart from approach groove 116a.

[0143] The approach groove 116a can be formed in a different shape than the spacer groove 116b. The area formed by the approach groove 116a can be larger than the area formed by the spacer groove 116b.

[0144] The approach groove 116a can be shaped such that its width decreases with distance from the center of the inner water tank 102. The separation groove 116b and the approach groove 116a can be configured such that the spacing between them increases with distance from the center of the inner water tank 102.

[0145] The first part 115a and the second part 115b can each be formed in a shape that is symmetrical to each other with respect to the handle 110.

[0146] Reference Figure 9 to Figure 10 The following is an explanation of the sink cover.

[0147] The sink cover 14 includes a central cover 16 and a peripheral cover 18 disposed around the periphery of the central cover 16. The central cover 16 has an upwardly projecting structure. Therefore, if water is supplied to the central cover 16, the water falling onto the central cover 16 can flow along the peripheral side of the central cover 16.

[0148] The central cover 16 includes an edge wall 17 that connects to the peripheral cover 18. The edge wall 17 can be engaged with the peripheral cover 18. The edge wall 17 is disposed below the peripheral cover 18.

[0149] A water supply hole 20 is formed between the central cover 16 and the peripheral cover 18. The water supply hole 20 can be formed in multiples at intervals along the circumference.

[0150] The peripheral cover 18 is disposed around the periphery of the central cover 16. The upper surface of the peripheral cover 18 may have a shape that slopes downward as it approaches the central cover 16.

[0151] The peripheral cover 18 includes: an upper wall 18a; a connecting portion 18b, which is joined to the central cover 16 at the inner end of the upper wall 18a; and an outer wall 18c, which protrudes downward from the upper wall 18a and is radially spaced from the connecting portion 18b.

[0152] The lower end of the outer wall 18c is located higher than the lower end of the central cover 16.

[0153] The water supply hole 20 can be positioned above the handle 108.

[0154] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12 The description will explain the position of the sink lid above the handle.

[0155] The sink cover 14 can be placed in the placement slot 114 of the handle 108. When the sink cover 14 is placed in the placement slot 114, one side of it can contact the handle bar 110.

[0156] likeFigure 11 With the sink cover 14 placed in the placement slot 114, the sink cover 14 can contact the lower part of the handle 110.

[0157] In addition, such as Figure 12 With the sink cover 14 placed in the placement slot 114, the sink cover 14 can contact the upper part of the handle 110.

[0158] The user can supply water into the water tank 100 with the water tank cover 14 placed above the handle 108. As the humidifier operates, water vapor (water droplets) can be formed on the upper or lower surface of the water tank cover 14.

[0159] Therefore, when the sink cover 14 is placed above the handle 108, the water vapor (water droplets) present in the sink cover 14 can flow into the sink.

[0160] Reference Figure 13 The configuration relationship between the inner and outer water tanks is explained.

[0161] The inner water tank 102 is disposed inside the outer water tank 160. The inner water tank 102 may be configured to contact the outer water tank 160.

[0162] The thickness of the inner water tank 102 is made smaller than that of the outer water tank 160.

[0163] A handle 108 is installed at the upper end of the inner water tank 102. A spiral groove 104a is formed at the upper end of the inner water tank 102 for engaging the handle 108.

[0164] A lower hole 106 is formed on the lower surface of the inner water tank 102. A portion of the connector 120 can pass through the lower hole 106.

[0165] A rigid molding can be formed on the lower surface of the inner water tank 102.

[0166] The outer water tank 160 is disposed on the outer periphery of the inner water tank 102. The outer water tank 160 can contact the inner water tank 102 on its peripheral surface and lower surface.

[0167] The upper end of the outer water tank 160 is configured to be separated from the inner water tank 102. The separation of the upper end of the outer water tank 160 from the inner water tank 102 creates a space for the handle 108.

[0168] The outer water tank 160 includes an upper end partition 161 that is spaced apart from the inner water tank 102 at its upper end.

[0169] That is, a region is formed at the upper end of the outer water tank 160 that expands sharply in diameter as it approaches the upper side.

[0170] A through hole 164 is formed on the lower surface of the outer water tank 160 for the connector 120 (described later) to pass through. The through hole 164 is located below the lower hole 106 of the inner water tank 102.

[0171] A lower edge 166 extending downward from the periphery of the through hole 164 is provided on the lower surface of the outer water tank 160.

[0172] An inwardly protruding protrusion 168 is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the lower edge 166.

[0173] Reference Figure 14 The structure of the water tank, which combines a handle, a water softener, a connector, and an inner shell, is described.

[0174] A handle 108 is provided at the upper end of the inner water tank 102. The upper end of the inner water tank 102 is disposed between the inner sidewall 112b and the outer sidewall 112a of the handle fixing part 112. The upper end of the inner water tank 102 is configured to contact the inner sidewall 112b of the handle fixing part 112.

[0175] A water tank seal 118 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer wall 112a of the handle fixing part 112. The water tank seal 118 contacts the inner peripheral surface of the outer water tank 160.

[0176] The sealing part 118c of the water tank seal 118 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the outer water tank 160.

[0177] The water tank seal 118 can seal the upper ends of the inner water tank 102 and the outer water tank 160.

[0178] A water softening device 140 is installed inside the inner water tank 102. A connector 120 is installed below the water softening device 140.

[0179] Connector 120 is coupled to water softener 140. A portion of connector 120 protrudes outward into inner water tank 102. Connector 120 is connected to supply pipe 230 connected to humidification module and supplies water from inner water tank 102 to humidification module.

[0180] Connector 120 transfers water stored inside the inner water tank 102 to the outside.

[0181] The connector 120 includes: a connector body 121 configured to pass through a lower hole 106 in the inner water tank body 104; a connector retainer 132 engaged with the connector body 121 to fix the configuration of the connector body 121; and a connector valve 130 disposed inside the connector body 121 to open and close the internal flow path of the connector body 121.

[0182] The connector body 121 includes a connector plate 122 disposed below the water softener 140 and a connector tube 128 extending to the lower side of the connector plate 122.

[0183] An upper seal 127a is disposed above the connector plate 122 between the sealed connector 120 and the soft water device 140.

[0184] A lower seal 127b is disposed below the connector plate 122 between the sealed connector 120 and the inner water tank 102.

[0185] A pad 107 is disposed at the lower end of the inner water tank 102. The pad 107 contacts the connector 120. The pad 107 prevents water in the inner water tank 102 from flowing through the outside of the connector 120 by contacting the lower surface of the connector plate 122.

[0186] The pad 107 can be configured to contact the upper surface of the connector retainer 132.

[0187] An outer seal 134 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the connector retainer 132. The outer seal 134 is configured to contact the lower edge 166 of the outer water tank 160. The outer seal 134 can contact an inner protrusion 168 protruding from the lower edge 166.

[0188] The outer seal 134 of the connector retainer 132, located on its outer peripheral surface, contacts the lower end of the outer water tank 160. Additionally, the upper surface of the connector retainer 132 contacts the pad 107 of the inner water tank 102.

[0189] That is, the connector retainer 132 can seal the lower ends of the inner water tank 102 and the outer water tank 160. Thus, the upper ends of the inner water tank 102 and the outer water tank 160 are sealed by the water tank sealer 118, while the lower ends are sealed by the connector retainer 132 and the outer sealer 134 and the gasket 107 that are in contact with the connector retainer 132.

[0190] An inner shell 180 is configured on the outer periphery of the outer water tank 160.

[0191] The inner shell 180 is separated from the outer water tank 160. The inner shell 180 is separated from the water tank 100. A first discharge path 32 for humidifying airflow is formed between the inner shell 180 and the outer water tank 160.

[0192] A shell through-hole 186 is formed on the lower surface of the inner shell 180 to allow a portion of the connector 120 to be configured. The shell through-hole 186 is formed below the through-hole 164 of the outer water tank 160. The inner shell 180 includes an upper edge 182 that projects upward from the region where the shell through-hole 186 is formed.

[0193] An upper edge 182 is disposed on the inner side of the lower edge 166. The upper end of the upper edge 182 contacts an inner protrusion 168 protruding from the inner circumferential surface of the lower edge 166.

[0194] An outer seal 134 disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the connector retainer 132 is configured to contact the inner protrusion 168 of the outer water tank 160. The outer seal 134 may be configured to contact the upper edge 182 of the inner housing 180.

[0195] Reference Figure 15 The configuration of the handle and sink cover is explained.

[0196] A handle 108 is provided on the upper part of the inner water tank 102. The handle 108 includes a handle rod 110 and a handle fixing part 112.

[0197] An outer water tank 160 is disposed outside the inner water tank 102. An inner shell 180 is disposed outside the outer water tank 160. A first discharge flow path 32 is formed between the outer water tank 160 and the inner shell 180.

[0198] An outer shell 22 is disposed on the outside of the inner shell 180. A second discharge flow path 34 is formed between the inner shell 180 and the outer shell 22.

[0199] An outlet grille 12 is disposed above the first outlet flow path 32 and the second outlet flow path 34.

[0200] The discharge grille 12 is mounted on the housing 22. Therefore, the discharge grille 12 does not exert any load on the water tank. The discharge grille 12 includes an inner wall 13a connecting the inner ends of a plurality of blades and an outer wall 13b connecting the outer ends of a plurality of blades.

[0201] A step portion 13a1 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the inner wall 13a, on which the water supply tank cover 14 is mounted. The step portion 13a1 has a structure that protrudes inward from the inner circumferential surface of the inner wall 13a.

[0202] The sink cover 14 is mounted on the discharge grille 12. The sink cover 14 includes a central cover 16 and a peripheral cover 18 disposed around the periphery of the central cover 16.

[0203] The central cover 16 includes an edge wall 17 that connects to the peripheral cover 18. The edge wall 17 can be joined with the peripheral cover 18.

[0204] The edge wall 117 is disposed on the upper side of the handle fixing part 112 of the handle 108.

[0205] A water supply hole 20 is formed between the peripheral cover 18 and the central cover 16. The water supply hole 20 can be disposed on the upper side of the inner upper surface 113b that is inclined inward in the upper surface 113 of the handle fixing part 112. Therefore, water falling through the water supply hole 20 can be supplied to the inner upper surface 113b and flow into the interior of the inner water tank 102.

[0206] The peripheral cover 18 includes an upper wall 18a and an outer wall 18c that protrudes downward from the upper wall 18a and is radially spaced from the connecting portion 18b. The outer wall 18c contacts the inner wall 13a of the inner ends of the connected plurality of blades of the discharge grille 12. The outer wall 18c is positioned above the stepped portion 13a1 of the inner wall 13a.

[0207] A portion of the upper wall 18a of the cover 18 extends outward toward the outer side of the outer wall 18c. Thus, a portion of the upper wall 18a is positioned above the first discharge path 32. Consequently, a portion of the humidified air discharged from the first discharge path 32 can rub against the water tank cover 14.

[0208] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood separately from the technical concept or prospect of the present invention.

Claims

1. A humidifier, wherein, include: An inner water tank, with a space for storing water formed inside the inner water tank, and an opening on the upper side of the inner water tank; An outer water tank forms a space to accommodate the inner water tank; A handle, configured to be fixed to the upper end of the inner water tank; and A water tank seal is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the handle and contacts the upper end of the outer water tank.

2. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein, The water tank seal includes: The contact part contacts the handle; The extension extends outward from the upper end of the contact portion; and The sealing portion extends downward from the end of the extension portion.

3. The humidifier according to claim 2, wherein, The sealing part has a shape that protrudes outward.

4. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein, The outer water tank is thicker than the inner water tank.

5. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein, Includes a connector that connects to the inner water tank and transfers water stored in the inner water tank to the humidification module; A lower hole is formed on the lower surface of the inner water tank for the connector to pass through; A through hole is formed on the lower surface of the outer water tank for the connector to pass through; The connector is configured to contact the inner water tank and the outer water tank respectively.

6. The humidifier according to claim 5, wherein, The lower surface of the inner water tank includes a pad, which is disposed around the periphery of the lower hole and contacts the connector.

7. The humidifier according to claim 5, wherein, The connector is provided with an outer seal that contacts the outer water tank.

8. The humidifier according to claim 5, wherein, The connector includes: The connector body is configured to pass through the lower hole; and A connector retainer is disposed on the outside of the inner water tank and is engaged with the connector body; When the connector retainer is engaged with the connector body, the connector contacts the inner water tank and the outer water tank to seal the lower hole and the through hole.

9. The humidifier according to claim 8, wherein, The upper surface of the connector retainer contacts the lower surface of the inner water tank; The peripheral surface of the connector retainer contacts the outer water tank.

10. The humidifier according to claim 8, wherein, The lower surface of the inner water tank includes a pad, which is disposed around the periphery of the lower hole and contacts the connector; The pad contacts the connector body.

11. The humidifier according to claim 8, wherein, An outer seal is provided on the circumferential surface of the connector retainer to contact the outer water tank.

12. The humidifier according to claim 11, wherein, A lower edge is provided on the lower surface of the outer water tank, and the lower edge extends downward from the periphery of the through hole; An inner protrusion is provided on the inner circumferential surface of the lower edge, the inner protrusion protruding inward and contacting the outer seal.

13. The humidifier according to claim 12, wherein, It includes an inner shell, which is spaced apart from the periphery of the outer water tank, and forms an outlet flow path for humidifying air to flow between the inner shell and the outer water tank; The lower surface of the inner shell includes an upper edge that protrudes upward from the periphery of the shell through hole formed below the through hole; the upper edge is disposed at the periphery of the lower edge.

14. The humidifier according to claim 13, wherein, The upper edge contacts the lower surface of the inner protrusion.

Images