Fan unit and air purifier

Abstract

The fan unit (30) is provided with: a fan motor (40) having a motor body (41) and an output shaft (42) extending from the motor body (41) to both sides in the rotational axis direction; the first impeller (31) is connected with one side of the output shaft (42); the second impeller (32) is connected with the other side of the output shaft (42); a first fan housing (33) that houses the first impeller (31); and a second fan housing (34) that houses the second impeller (32). At least one of the first fan case (33) and the second fan case (34) has a housing space (47) in which the fan motor (40) is housed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a fan unit and an air purifier. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an air purifier having a fan unit including a fan motor. In the fan unit described in Patent Document 1, the fan motor is supported by the housing of the air purifier at a different location than the fan housing that houses the impeller.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 5862717 Summary of the Invention

[0006] -The technical problem the invention aims to solve-

[0007] The fan unit described in Patent Document 1 requires a support component to support the fan motor, thus requiring a relatively large space in the direction of the fan motor's rotation axis. Therefore, from the viewpoint of making the fan unit more compact, there is room for improvement.

[0008] The purpose of this disclosure is to make the fan unit more compact.

[0009] - Technical solutions used to solve technical problems -

[0010] The first aspect pertains to a fan unit. The fan unit includes a fan motor 40, a first impeller 31, a second impeller 32, a first fan housing 33, and a second fan housing 34. The fan motor 40 has a motor body 41 and output shafts 42 extending from the motor body 41 to both sides in the direction of rotation. The first impeller 31 is connected to one side of the output shaft 42, and the second impeller 32 is connected to the other side of the output shaft 42, and is arranged together with the first impeller 31 to sandwich the fan motor 40. The first fan housing 33 houses the first impeller 31, and the second fan housing 34 houses the second impeller 32. At least one of the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 has a storage space 47 for housing the fan motor 40.

[0011] In the first aspect, the fan motor 40 is housed within the fan housings 33 and 34, thereby enabling the fan motor 40, impellers 31 and 32, and fan housings 33 and 34 to form a single integrated structure. Even with multiple impellers 31 and 32, the fan unit 30 can achieve a compact structure.

[0012] The second aspect is based on the first aspect, whereby the first fan housing 33 constitutes a part of the storage space 47, and the second fan housing 34 constitutes the remaining part of the storage space 47.

[0013] In the second aspect, by dividing the storage space 47, the load when supporting the motor body 41 in the storage space 47 and the load generated when driving the fan motor 40 can be distributed to the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34. This enables a compact and stable fan unit 30.

[0014] The third aspect is based on the first or second aspect, wherein the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32 are fastened to the output shaft 42, and the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are both 4.4 mm or more. The first distance L1 is the distance from the end of the fastening part between the first impeller 31 and the output shaft 42 on the side of the motor body 41 to the end of the motor body 41 on the side of the first impeller 31. The second distance L2 is the distance from the end of the fastening part between the second impeller 32 and the output shaft 42 on the side of the motor body 41 to the end of the motor body 41 on the side of the second impeller 32.

[0015] Axial vibration of the output shaft 42 may be transmitted to the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32 via the fastening part. In contrast, in the third aspect, an appropriate distance can be maintained between the motor body 41 and the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32, thereby suppressing the transmission of vibration to the first impeller 31 and the second impeller. By suppressing the transmission of vibration to the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32, abnormal noise can be suppressed.

[0016] The fourth aspect is based on the third aspect, where the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are 4.4mm to 6.0mm respectively.

[0017] In the fourth aspect, space-saving of the fan motor 40 in the direction of rotation axis can be achieved while properly separating the motor body 41 from the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32.

[0018] The fifth aspect, based on any one of the first to fourth aspects, provides a vibration damping component 46 on the outer periphery of the motor body 41, and the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 have contact portions 35c, 35d, 36c, and 36d that contact the vibration damping component 46.

[0019] In the fifth aspect, the vibration damping member 46 can be pressed by the contact portions 35c, 35d, 36c, and 36d, thereby suppressing the movement of the motor body 41 and the vibration damping member 46 together. As a result, the vibration damping member 46 can appropriately absorb the vibration of the motor body 41.

[0020] The sixth aspect, based on the fifth aspect, is that the contact portions 35c, 35d, 36c, and 36d have curved surfaces, and the vibration damping component 46 contacts the curved surfaces of the contact portions 35c, 35d, 36c, and 36d.

[0021] In the sixth aspect, since the contact area with the vibration damping component 46 can be reduced, the transmission of vibration from the vibration damping component 46 to the contact portions 35c, 35d, 36c, and 36d can be suppressed. This improves the overall vibration damping effect of the fan unit.

[0022] The seventh aspect, based on the sixth aspect, is that the radius of curvature of the surfaces of the contact portions 35c, 35d, 36c, and 36d is greater than the radius of curvature of the contact portion of the vibration damping component 46.

[0023] In the seventh aspect, since the contact area with the anti-vibration component 46 can be minimized as much as possible, the overall anti-vibration effect of the fan unit can be improved.

[0024] The eighth aspect is based on any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, wherein the vibration damping component 46 is an elastomer.

[0025] In the eighth aspect, by making the vibration damping component 46 an elastic body, the vibration damping effect can be further improved.

[0026] Based on any one of the first to eighth aspects, the ninth aspect is that the first fan housing 33 has a first rib 35 surrounding the fan motor 40 and extending toward the second fan housing 34, the second fan housing 34 has a second rib 36 surrounding the fan motor 40 and extending toward the first fan housing 33, the first rib 35 and the second rib 36 overlapping in a direction orthogonal to the direction of the rotation axis.

[0027] In the ninth aspect, since the first rib 35 and the second rib 36 overlap in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis X, it is possible to suppress foreign objects such as water from entering the storage space 47.

[0028] Based on any one of the first to ninth aspects, the tenth aspect provides that the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 have positioning portions 35e, 36c, and 36d for positioning when they are joined together.

[0029] In the tenth aspect, positioning when the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 are joined is made easier, thereby making the assembly of the fan unit easier.

[0030] In the eleventh aspect, based on any one of the first to tenth aspects, the appearance of the first fan housing 33 and the appearance of the second fan housing 34 are asymmetrical with respect to a plane orthogonal to the direction of the rotation axis.

[0031] In the eleventh aspect, the structure of the first fan housing 33 can be made significantly different from the structure of the second fan housing 34. For example, the outlet 33d of the first fan housing 33 and the outlet 34d of the second fan housing 34 can be oriented differently, or the storage space of the impellers 31 and 32 can be made different in size. The structure of the fan unit can be flexibly changed according to the purpose.

[0032] Based on any one of the first to eleventh aspects, the radial length W3 of the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32 is more than three times the thickness L3 of the fan motor 40.

[0033] In the twelfth aspect, it is possible to increase the diameter of the impellers 31 and 32 while reducing the thickness of the fan motor 40, thereby achieving a large air volume and compact fan unit.

[0034] Based on any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the fan motor 40 is an axial clearance type motor.

[0035] In the thirteenth aspect, by using an axial clearance type motor as the fan motor 40, a large air volume and compact fan unit can be achieved.

[0036] The fourteenth aspect pertains to an air purifier. The air purifier includes: a fan unit 30 as described in any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, and a housing 11 that houses the fan unit 30.

[0037] In the fourteenth aspect, by using a fan unit 30 with the fan motor 40 housed within the fan housings 33 and 34, space can be saved by eliminating the need for a separate support for the fan motor 40. The saved space can be used to increase the installation area of ​​the impellers 31 and 32, thereby increasing the airflow. Furthermore, compared to arranging the fan motor 40 outside the fan housings 33 and 34, the impellers 31 and 32 can be positioned near the intake ports 15 and 16. This facilitates the intake of air from the target space, thus improving air purification efficiency.

[0038] The fifteenth aspect, based on the fourteenth aspect, is that the housing 11 has main air intakes 15 and 16 on both sides in the direction of the rotation axis, and filters 23, 24, 25, and 26 are arranged in the air passage P from the main air intakes 15 and 16 to the fan unit 30.

[0039] In the fifteenth aspect, the total area of ​​filters 23, 24, 25, and 26 can be increased, thereby suppressing pressure loss. By suppressing pressure loss, high-volume airflow can be achieved. Furthermore, compared to arranging filters 23, 24, 25, and 26 downstream of the outlets 33d and 34d of the fan unit 30, the dimensions of the housing 11 in the direction orthogonal to the rotation axis X of the fan motor 40 can be minimized as much as possible.

[0040] The sixteenth aspect, based on the fifteenth aspect, is that the housing 11 has a secondary intake port 19 and a relay passage 19a, the secondary intake port 19 drawing in air from a direction orthogonal to both the rotation axis direction and the vertical direction, and the relay passage 19a causing the air drawn in from the secondary intake port 19 to flow towards the upstream side of the filters 23, 24, 25, 26.

[0041] In the sixteenth aspect, air can be drawn in from multiple parts and properly passed through filters 23, 24, 25, and 26, thereby improving air purification efficiency.

[0042] The seventeenth aspect, based on the fifteenth or sixteenth aspect, is that the housing 11 has a grille 71 between the filters 25, 26 and the fan unit 30, and the air purifier includes fixing parts 73, 74, which fix the filters 25, 26 in a state where the filters 25, 26 are arranged along the grille 71.

[0043] In the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to suppress the accidental movement of the deodorizing filters 25 and 26, thereby maintaining the air purification effect at a high level.

[0044] Eighteenth aspect: Based on any one of aspects fifteen to seventeen, the air purifier includes active species generating units 27 and 28 for generating active species, and the housing 11 has release passages 80 and 87 that release the active species generated by the active species generating units 27 and 28 toward an upstream side relative to the filters 23, 24, 25, and 26.

[0045] In the eighteenth aspect, even if filters 23, 24, 25, and 26 are located upstream of impellers 31 and 32, active species can still adhere to filters 23, 24, 25, and 26, thereby improving the air purification effect. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the appearance of the air purifier according to the embodiment.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a simplified diagram showing the internal structure of an air purifier as viewed from the front.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a simplified diagram showing the internal structure of an air purifier as viewed from the right.

[0049] Figure 4 This is a 3D view of the fan unit.

[0050] Figure 5 This is an exploded 3D view of the fan unit.

[0051] Figure 6 It is equivalent to Figure 4 A sectional view at line VI-VI.

[0052] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged view of region VII.

[0053] Figure 8 This is a view of the first fan housing from the motor side.

[0054] Figure 9 This is a view of the second fan housing from the motor side.

[0055] Figure 10 This is an enlarged view of the positioning parts of the first and second fan housings.

[0056] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vibration damping components of the electric motor and the contact portion of the first fan housing and the second fan housing.

[0057] Figure 12 This is a side view showing the left side of the grille.

[0058] Figure 13 It is equivalent to Figure 12 A cross-sectional view at line XIII-XIII.

[0059] Figure 14 It is equivalent to Figure 13 A cross-sectional view at line XIV-XIV.

[0060] Figure 15 It is equivalent to Figure 12 A cross-sectional view at the XV-XV line.

[0061] Figure 16 It is equivalent to Figure 12A cross-sectional view at the XVI-XVI line.

[0062] Figure 17 It is equivalent to Figure 12 A cross-sectional view along line XVII-XVII.

[0063] Figure 18 It is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting through the plane passing through the front release hole and the rear release hole.

[0064] Figure 19 It is a graph showing the relationship between the first and second distances and the noise level.

[0065] Figure 20 This is a top view showing the fan unit involved in the modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications can be made without departing from the technical concept of this disclosure. The accompanying drawings are for conceptual illustration of this disclosure; therefore, for ease of understanding, dimensions, scales, or quantities are sometimes exaggerated or simplified as needed.

[0067] (1) Overall structure of air purifier

[0068] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The overall structure of an air purifier with a fan unit is described below. It should be noted that in the following description, terms related to "up," "down," "front," "back," "right," and "left" will generally be used in accordance with... Figure 1 The direction indicated by the arrow is the reference.

[0069] The air purifier 10 of this embodiment purifies the air in an indoor space S, which is the target space. Furthermore, the air purifier 10 humidifies the air in the indoor space S. The air purifier 10 has a housing 11. Inside the housing 11, the air purifier 10 has an air purification unit 20 for purifying the air and a humidification unit 50 for humidifying the purified air.

[0070] (1-1) Casing

[0071] like Figure 1 As shown, the housing 11 is formed as a hollow box shape. The housing 11 is formed as a cuboid with a relatively long longitudinal length. The housing 11 has a top plate 11a, a bottom plate 11b, a front plate 11c, a rear plate 11d, a right side plate 11e, and a left side plate 11f.

[0072] An outlet 12 is formed on the top plate 11a. The outlet 12 is rectangular and is located slightly rearward of the top plate 11a. Two baffles 13 are provided at the outlet 12. The baffles 13 are plate-shaped and span across the left and right ends of the outlet 12. The baffles 13 open and close the outlet 12 or adjust the direction of the blown air.

[0073] An operation panel 14 is provided on the top plate 11a. The operation panel 14 is located at the front of the top plate 11a. By operating the operation panel 14, the user can input the operating mode and various settings of the air purifier 10.

[0074] A first intake port 15 is formed on the right side plate 11e. The first intake port 15 is rectangular and is located at the lower part of the right side plate 11e. An opening and closing cover 17 is provided at the upper part of the right side plate 11e. The opening and closing cover 17 opens and closes the access port 18 for the water tank 52 of the humidification unit 50. A pull-out opening 17a is formed at the upper part of the opening and closing cover 17. The user grasps the pull-out opening 17a and removes the opening and closing cover 17. As a result, the access port 18 is opened. The user can remove the water tank 52 to the outside of the housing 11 through the access port 18.

[0075] A second suction port 16 is formed on the left side plate 11f. The second suction port 16 is rectangular and is formed at the lower part of the left side plate 11f.

[0076] A third intake port 19 is formed at the lower end of the front panel 11c. The third intake port 19 extends horizontally across both ends of the housing 11. Figure 2 As shown, the housing 11 has a relay passage 19a for guiding air drawn in from the third intake port 19. The relay passage 19a guides the air drawn in from the third intake port 19 to a position upstream of the HEPA filters 23, 24, which will be described later. The air guided into the relay passage 19a is released from the air release port 83b (see reference). Figure 12 ).

[0077] like Figure 2 As shown, an air passage P is formed inside the housing 11. The first intake port 15, the second intake port 16, and the third intake port 19 constitute the inflow end of the air passage P. The outlet port 12 constitutes the outflow end of the air passage P.

[0078] (1-2) Air purification unit

[0079] Air purification unit 20 is located at the lower part of air passage P. Air purification unit 20 purifies the air drawn in from the first intake 15, second intake 16, and third intake 19. Air purification unit 20, starting from the upstream side of air passage P, includes pre-filters 21 and 22, HEPA filters 23 and 24, deodorizing filters 25 and 26, and a fan unit 30. Furthermore, air purification unit 20 includes discharge units 27 and 28.

[0080] (1-2-1) Pre-filter

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown, a first pre-filter 21 and a second pre-filter 22 are installed in the housing 11. The first pre-filter 21 is located at the first intake 15, and the second pre-filter 22 is located at the second intake 16. The first pre-filter 21 and the second pre-filter 22 capture larger dust particles in the air.

[0082] (1-2-2) HEPA filter

[0083] The housing 11 contains two HEPA filters: a first HEPA filter 23 (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) and a second HEPA filter 24. The first HEPA filter 23 is positioned between the first pre-filter 21 and the first deodorizing filter 25. The second HEPA filter 24 is positioned between the second pre-filter 22 and the second deodorizing filter 26. Both the first HEPA filter 23 and the second HEPA filter 24 are plate-shaped, with their thickness direction corresponding to the horizontal direction. Both filters have an electrostatic function, capturing particles using electrostatic force. An antibacterial agent is added to both filters. Alternatively, the first HEPA filter 23 and the second HEPA filter 24 can be a stacked structure consisting of two or more filters stacked in the airflow direction.

[0084] (1-2-3) Deodorizing Filter

[0085] Two deodorizing filters, a first deodorizing filter 25 and a second deodorizing filter 26, are disposed within the housing 11. The first deodorizing filter 25 is positioned between the first HEPA filter 23 and the fan unit 30. The second deodorizing filter 26 is positioned between the second HEPA filter 24 and the fan unit 30. Both the first and second deodorizing filters 25 and 26 are plate-shaped, with their thickness direction corresponding to the vertical direction. The first and second deodorizing filters 25 and 26 are adsorption sections that adsorb harmful substances and odorous substances from the air. Both the first and second deodorizing filters 25 and 26 have a substrate that allows air to pass through and adsorption materials such as activated carbon supported on the substrate.

[0086] (1-2-4) Fan Unit

[0087] The fan unit 30 is located in the center of the left-right direction within the housing 11. The fan unit 30 is arranged at the lower part of the air passage P. The fan unit 30 delivers air into the air passage P. The fan unit 30 is a unit with a centrifugal fan, specifically a Sirocco fan. The fan unit 30 is a double-intake fan unit with intake sections formed at both ends of its drive shaft (the rotation shaft of the impeller). The exhaust section of the fan unit 30 faces upward. The fan unit 30 has a fan motor 40 that drives the impeller. When the fan unit 30 operates, air in the target space is drawn into the air passage P through the first intake 15, the second intake 16, and the third intake 19. The air flowing through the air passage P is blown out into the target space through the exhaust outlet 12. The detailed structure of the fan unit 30 will be described later.

[0088] (1-2-5) Discharge Unit

[0089] The housing 11 contains two discharge units: a first discharge unit 27 and a second discharge unit 28. The first discharge unit 27 is positioned above the first HEPA filter 23 and the first deodorizing filter 25. The second discharge unit 28 is positioned above the second HEPA filter 24 and the second deodorizing filter 26.

[0090] The first discharge unit 27 and the second discharge unit 28 generate active species for oxidizing and decomposing odorous components in the air during discharge. The first discharge unit 27 and the second discharge unit 28 discharge between the tip of a linear discharge electrode and the plane of a plate-shaped counter electrode. The first discharge unit 27 and the second discharge unit 28 perform streamer discharge, forming a generally conical discharge region from the tip of the discharge electrode toward the counter electrode. The first discharge unit 27 and the second discharge unit 28 perform streamer discharge on a portion of the air released from the fan unit 30, generating active species.

[0091] A first discharge unit 27 is disposed in a first release passage 80, and a second discharge unit 28 is disposed in a second release passage 87. The first release passage 80 is a passage for returning a portion of the air blown out from the fan unit 30, along with the active species generated by the first discharge units 27 and 28, to the upstream side of the first HEPA filter 23. The second release passage 87 is a passage for returning a portion of the air blown out from the fan unit 30, along with the active species generated by the second discharge units 27 and 28, to the upstream side of the second HEPA filter 24. Details of the first release passage 80 and the second release passage 87 will be described later.

[0092] (1-3) Humidification Unit

[0093] The humidifying unit 50 is arranged between the air outlet of the fan unit 30 and the air outlet 12 of the housing 11. The humidifying unit 50 is located in the humidifying space 51 above the air passage P. The humidifying unit 50 imparts water to the air flowing in the air passage P. Figure 3 As shown, the humidification unit 50 has a water tank 52, a water tray 53, and a humidification rotor 54.

[0094] (1-3-1) Water tank

[0095] Water tank 52 is a container for storing water for humidification. Water tank 52 supplies water inside to water tray 53 as appropriate. Water tank 52 is configured to be inserted into and removed from housing 11 through the aforementioned inlet / outlet 18.

[0096] (1-3-2) Water tray

[0097] Water tray 53 stores water supplied from water tank 52. Water tray 53 constitutes a water storage section for supplying water to the water suction component of humidifying rotor 54. Water tray 53 is an open container on the top.

[0098] (1-3-3) Humidifying rotor

[0099] The humidifying rotor 54 has a water-absorbing component that absorbs moisture. The humidifying rotor 54 imparts the water contained in the water-absorbing component to the air in the humidifying space 51. The humidifying rotor 54 divides the humidifying space 51 into a primary space 51a and a secondary space 51b. The primary space 51a is formed on the upstream side of the humidifying rotor 54. The secondary space 51b is formed on the downstream side of the humidifying rotor 54.

[0100] The humidifying rotor 54 is circular and has a drive shaft 54a at its center. The drive shaft 54a extends toward both the primary space 51a and the secondary space 51b. The drive shaft 54a is supported by two shaft supports 53a mounted on the water pan 53 in a manner that allows the drive shaft 54a to rotate. The humidifying rotor 54 rotates around the drive shaft 54a under the drive of a drive mechanism (not shown in the figure). The drive mechanism is, for example, an electric motor.

[0101] (1-4) Air valve

[0102] The air purifier 10 has a first air valve 61 and a second air valve 62. The first air valve 61 is arranged in the air passage P between the fan unit 30 and the secondary space 51b. The second air valve 62 is arranged in the air passage P between the primary space 51a and the air outlet 12. The first air valve 61 and the second air valve 62 open and close in conjunction. Specifically, when the first air valve 61 is closed, the second air valve 62 is also closed; when the first air valve 61 is open, the second air valve 62 is also open.

[0103] The first air valve 61 and the second air valve 62 alter the air passage P within the humidification space 51. For example... Figure 3 As shown, when both the first air valve 61 and the second air valve 62 are closed, the air blown from the fan unit 30 flows into the primary space 51a, passes through the humidifying rotor 54, and flows out into the secondary space 51b, before being released from the outlet 12. At this time, the humidified air is released from the outlet 12. Conversely, when both the first air valve 61 and the second air valve 62 are open, the air blown from the fan unit 30 bypasses the humidifying rotor 54 and flows towards the outlet 12 through both the primary space 51a and the secondary space 51b. At this time, the air is released from the outlet 12 with almost no humidification.

[0104] (2) Structure of the fan unit

[0105] Reference Figures 4 to 11 The structure of the fan unit 30 will be described below. It should be noted that, in the following description, "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" generally refer to the axial, radial, and circumferential directions of the fan motor 40, respectively. "Axial" is... Figure 6 The rotation center of the fan motor 40 shown is the direction in which the rotation axis X extends.

[0106] The fan unit 30 creates a negative pressure to draw in air from the first intake port 15, the second intake port 16, and the third intake port 19. The fan unit 30 then blows the purified air drawn in from the first intake port 15, the second intake port 16, and the third intake port 19 towards the humidification unit 50. Figures 4-6As shown, the fan unit 30 includes: a fan motor 40; a first impeller 31 and a second impeller 32, which rotate under the drive of the fan motor 40; a first fan housing 33 that houses the first impeller 31; and a second fan housing 34 that houses the second impeller 32. The fan unit 30 is arranged in the housing 11 with the first fan housing 33 on the right and the second fan housing 34 on the left.

[0107] (2-1) Electric motor

[0108] The fan motor 40 is an axial clearance type motor. The fan motor 40 has a motor body 41 and output shafts 42 protruding from both sides of the motor body 41 in the direction of rotation. The motor body 41 has a first rotor 43 in the shape of a circular plate, a second rotor 44 in the shape of a circular plate, and a stator 45 sandwiched between the first rotor 43 and the second rotor 44. The output shafts 42 are supported by the stator 45 in a manner that allows the output shafts 42 to rotate. The fan motor 40 is, for example, a 10-pole, 12-slot motor.

[0109] The first rotor 43 has a circular plate-shaped magnet component. The magnet component is an anisotropic plastic magnet. The magnet component consists of an annular outer peripheral portion 43a and an inner peripheral portion 43b formed on the inner periphery of the outer peripheral portion 43a and bulging outward axially towards the output shaft 42. In the outer peripheral portion 43a, the S pole and N pole are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. In the central portion of the inner peripheral portion 43b, a first fixing portion 43c is provided to fix one end of the output shaft 42. The first fixing portion 43c protrudes slightly outward axially from the inner peripheral portion 43b. The first fixing portion 43c corresponds to the end of the motor body 41 on the side near the first impeller 31.

[0110] The second rotor 44 has a circular plate-shaped magnet component. The magnet component of the second rotor 44 has the same structure as the magnet component of the first rotor 43, consisting of an annular outer peripheral portion 44a and an inner peripheral portion 44b that bulges outward axially toward the output shaft 42. In the central portion of the inner peripheral portion 44b, a second fixing portion 44c is provided to fix the other end of the output shaft 42.

[0111] The second fixing part 44c protrudes slightly outward in the axial direction than the inner peripheral part 44b. The second fixing part 44c corresponds to the end of the motor body 41 on the side near the second impeller 32.

[0112] The stator 45 is constructed by molding a terminal block and a bearing retainer from resin. A segmented iron core arranged in a ring is fixed to the terminal block, and the bearing retainer holds the bearing. The stator 45 has four radially projecting protrusions 45a. The four protrusions 45a have the same structure and are located circumferentially at equal intervals. The protrusions 45a are in the shape of an arc extending circumferentially.

[0113] A vibration damping component 46 is mounted on the protrusion 45a. The vibration damping component 46 is an elastomer, such as silicone rubber. The vibration damping component 46 covers the entire protrusion 45a. Figure 11 As shown, the protrusion 45a has recesses 45b on both axial surfaces. The vibration damping member 46 has claws 46a that are received in the recesses 45b. By receiving the claws 46a in the recesses 45b, the vibration damping member 46 is held in place so as not to fall off the protrusion 45a. The corners of the vibration damping member 46 are machined into a rounded shape.

[0114] The output shaft 42 has a first shaft portion 42a that protrudes axially from the first rotor 43 toward the side opposite to the stator 45, and a second shaft portion 42b that protrudes axially from the second rotor 44 toward the side opposite to the stator 45. The first shaft portion 42a is fastened to the first impeller 31. The second shaft portion 42b is fastened to the second impeller 32.

[0115] (2-2) First impeller, second impeller

[0116] The first impeller 31 is a Sirocco fan-type impeller. The first impeller 31 has multiple blades 31a, a circular plate 31b, and a hub 31c arranged at the center of the plate 31b. For example... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, a first shaft portion 42a is inserted into the hub 31c. The radial length W3 of the first impeller 31 is, for example, 17cm to 22cm.

[0117] The second impeller 32 is a Sirocco fan-type impeller. The second impeller 32 has multiple blades 32a, a circular plate 32b, and a hub 32c arranged at the center of the plate 32b. For example... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, a second shaft portion 42b is inserted into the hub 32c. The dimensions of the second impeller 32 are the same as those of the first impeller 31.

[0118] (2-3) Fastening structure between the motor and the first and second impellers

[0119] The output shaft 42 of the fan motor 40 has a first support portion 42c supporting the first impeller 31 in the first shaft portion 42a, and a second support portion 42d supporting the second impeller 32 in the second shaft portion 42b. Figure 7As shown, the first support portion 42c is annular, surrounding the first shaft portion 42a, and is fixed to the first shaft portion 42a. The first support portion 42c, together with the nut 42e, secures the hub 31c of the first impeller 31 to the first shaft portion 42a. The second support portion 42d is annular, surrounding the second shaft portion 42b, and is fixed to the second shaft portion 42b. The second support portion 42d, together with the nut 42e, secures the hub 32c of the second impeller 32 to the second shaft portion 42b. The first support portion 42c corresponds to the end of the fastening portion between the first impeller 31 and the output shaft 42 on the side closest to the motor body 41. The second support portion 42d corresponds to the end of the fastening portion between the second impeller 32 and the output shaft 42 on the side closest to the motor body 41.

[0120] The first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are set according to the noise level when the fan motor 40 is rotating. The first distance L1 is the distance between the first support 42c and the first fixing part 43c of the first rotor 43, and the second distance L2 is the distance between the second support 42d and the second fixing part 44c of the second rotor 44. Specifically, the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are 4.4 mm or more. More specifically, the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are 4.4 mm to 6.0 mm. It should be noted that the first distance L1 can also be measured by considering the end face of the hub 31c of the first impeller 31 on the side facing the motor body 41 as the end face of the fastener between the first impeller 31 and the output shaft 42 on the motor side. Similarly, the second distance L2 can be measured by considering the end face of the hub 32c of the second impeller 32 on the side facing the motor body 41 as the end face of the fastener between the second impeller 32 and the output shaft 42 on the motor side. Furthermore, the distance L3 between the end of the first fixed part 43c on the side near the first impeller 31 and the end of the second fixed part 44c on the side near the second impeller 32, i.e., the third distance L3, is 30mm to 50mm. The third distance L3 is equivalent to the thickness of the fan motor 40. It should be noted that when the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are 4.4mm to 6.0mm, the shortest distance in the X direction of the rotation axis, between the outer periphery 43a of the first rotor 43 and the plate 31b of the first impeller 31, i.e., the fourth distance L4, and the shortest distance in the X direction of the rotation axis, between the outer periphery 44a of the second rotor 44 and the plate 32b of the second impeller 32, i.e., the fifth distance L5, is 6.0mm to 7.6mm. The fourth distance L4 can also be regarded as the distance between the stator 45 and the plate 31b of the first impeller 31 in the X direction of the rotation axis, and the fifth distance L5 can also be regarded as the distance between the stator 45 and the plate 31b of the second impeller 32 in the X direction of the rotation axis.

[0121] (2-4) First fan housing, second fan housing

[0122] The first fan housing 33 has a first outer shell 33a and a first inner shell 33b. The first outer shell 33a and the first inner shell 33b overlap in the axial direction and are fastened together by screws. In the following description, when referred to simply as "first fan housing 33", it means the structure in which the first outer shell 33a and the first inner shell 33b are fastened together.

[0123] The first housing 33a has a first inlet 33c for introducing air into the fan unit 30. The first housing 33a also forms part of a first outlet 33d for releasing air drawn into the fan unit 30. The first housing 33a also forms part of a first fan housing 33e for housing the first impeller 31.

[0124] The first inner housing 33b constitutes the remaining portion of the first outlet 33d. The first inner housing 33b also constitutes the remaining portion of the first fan housing 33e. The first inner housing 33b occupies a larger percentage of the first outlet 33d than the first outer housing 33a; the first inner housing 33b occupies a larger percentage of the first fan housing 33e than the first outer housing 33a. The first inner housing 33b has two first feet 33f for arranging the fan unit 30 with the first outlet 33d facing upwards within the housing 11. The first inner housing 33b has a hole 33g for leading out a wiring harness extending from the fan motor 40.

[0125] The first inner housing 33b forms part of the motor housing space 47 for housing the fan motor 40. The motor housing space 47 also serves as the motor support for supporting the fan motor 40. The first inner housing 33b has an annular first rib 35 on its first face 33h on the side opposite to the first outer housing 33a (the side opposite to the second fan housing 34) in the axial direction. The first rib 35 protrudes axially toward the second fan housing 34. The portion surrounded by the first rib 35 forms part of the motor housing space 47. The first rib 35 is formed to surround the stator 45 of the fan motor 40 from the radially outer side.

[0126] The first rib 35 has: four first arcuate ribs 35a, which extend in an arcuate shape around the rotation axis X of the fan motor 40; and four first connecting ribs 35b, which connect adjacent first arcuate ribs 35a in the circumferential direction. The first connecting ribs 35b located on the upper, lower, and front sides extend straight, while the first connecting ribs 35b located on the rear side extend in a manner that bulges rearward from the center in the vertical direction. The first arcuate ribs 35a are provided in portions corresponding to the protrusions 45a of the stator 45. The first arcuate ribs 35a have three first radial ribs 35c extending radially. The first radial ribs 35c are provided on the side of the first arcuate ribs 35a near the motor housing space 47. The first connecting ribs 35b have two first circumferential ribs 35d extending circumferentially. One first circumferential rib 35d is provided at each end of the first connecting rib 35b. The first circumferential ribs 35d, extending from the same first connecting rib 35b, extend further apart from each other as they move radially inward. The first circumferential ribs 35d extend circumferentially toward the proximal first arcuate rib 35a. (As shown...) Figure 10 As shown, the portions of the first radial rib 35c and the first circumferential rib 35d on the second fan housing 34 side have curved surfaces. The radius of curvature of this surface is greater than the radius of curvature of the arc shape of the vibration damping component 46. The first radial rib 35c and the first circumferential rib 35d correspond to the contact portions that contact the vibration damping component 46, as detailed later.

[0127] like Figure 10 As shown, the first arcuate rib 35a and the first connecting rib 35b have engaging recesses 35e recessed towards the axially outward (here, to the right). The first arcuate rib 35a has an engaging recess 35e at the position of the first radial rib 35c. The first connecting rib 35b has an engaging recess 35e at the position of the first circumferential rib 35d. The engaging recesses 35e are portions that engage with the second radial rib 36c and the second circumferential rib 36d of the second fan housing 34, which will be described later.

[0128] The first inner housing 33b has a first protrusion 33i on the radially outer side of the first arcuate rib 35a. Four first protrusions 33i are provided. The first protrusions 33i are for screw fastening to join the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34. A reinforcing rib 33j is provided between the first protrusions 33i and the first rib 35a.

[0129] The second fan housing 34 has a second outer shell 34a and a second inner shell 34b. The second outer shell 34a and the second inner shell 34b overlap in the axial direction and are fastened together by screws. In the following description, when referred to simply as "second fan housing 34", it means the structure in which the second outer shell 34a and the second inner shell 34b are fastened together.

[0130] The second housing 34a has a second inlet 34c that introduces air into the fan unit 30. The second inlet 34c is located on the opposite side from the first inlet 33c, across the fan motor 40. The second housing 34a forms part of a second outlet 34d that releases the air drawn into the fan unit 30. The second housing 34a also forms part of a second fan housing 34e that houses the second impeller 32.

[0131] The second inner housing 34b constitutes the remaining portion of the second outlet 34d. The second inner housing 34b also constitutes the remaining portion of the second fan housing 34e. The second inner housing 34b occupies a larger percentage of the second outlet 34d than the second outer housing 34a; the second inner housing 34b occupies a larger percentage of the second fan housing 34e than the second outer housing 34a. The second inner housing 34b has two second feet 34f, which are used to arrange the fan unit 30 in the housing 11 with the second outlet 34d facing upwards.

[0132] The second inner housing 34b constitutes the remainder of the motor housing space 47 for housing the fan motor 40. The second inner housing 34b has an annular second rib 36 on its second face 34h, located axially opposite to the second outer housing 34a (on the side opposite to the first fan housing 33). The second rib 36 protrudes axially toward the first fan housing 33. The portion surrounded by the second rib 36 forms part of the motor housing space 47. The second rib 36 is formed to surround the stator 45 of the fan motor 40 from the radially outer side. The distance of the second rib 36 from the rotation axis X is slightly greater than the distance of the first rib 35 from the rotation axis X.

[0133] The second rib 36 has: four second arcuate ribs 36a, which extend in an arcuate shape around the rotation axis X of the fan motor 40; and four second connecting ribs 36b, which connect adjacent second arcuate ribs 36a in the circumferential direction. The second connecting ribs 36b located on the upper, lower, and front sides extend straight, while the second connecting ribs 36b located on the rear side extend in a manner that bulges rearward from the center in the vertical direction. The second arcuate ribs 36a are provided in portions corresponding to the protrusions 45a of the stator 45. The second arcuate ribs 36a have three radially extending second radial ribs 36c. The second radial ribs 36c are provided on the side of the second arcuate ribs 36a near the motor housing space 47. The second connecting ribs 36b have two circumferentially extending second circumferential ribs 36d. One second circumferential rib 36d is provided at each end of the second connecting rib 36b. The second circumferential rib 36d, extending from the same second connecting rib 36b, extends further apart from each other as it moves radially inward. The second circumferential rib 36d extends circumferentially toward the proximal second arcuate rib 36a. (As shown...) Figure 10 As shown, the portions of the second radial rib 36c and the second circumferential rib 36d on the side of the second fan housing 34 have curved surfaces. The radius of curvature of these curved surfaces is greater than the radius of curvature of the arc shape of the vibration damping component 46. The second radial rib 36c and the second circumferential rib 36d correspond to the contact portions that contact the vibration damping component 46, as detailed later.

[0134] like Figure 8 As shown, the second inner housing 34b has a second protrusion 34i on the radially outer side of the second arcuate rib 36a. Four second protrusions 34i are provided. The second protrusions 34i are for screw fastening to join the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34. A reinforcing rib 34j is provided between the second protrusions 34i and the second rib 36a.

[0135] like Figure 6 As shown, when the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 are combined, a motor housing space 47 is formed by the first face 33h, the second face 34h, the first rib 35, and the second rib 36. The axial width W2 of the motor housing space 47 is 7% to 12% of the maximum axial width W1 of the combination of the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34.

[0136] With the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 joined together, the first rib 35 and the second rib 36 overlap in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis X. The first rib 35 is located radially inside the second rib 36. The first rib 35 abuts against the second surface 34h of the second inner housing 34b.

[0137] like Figure 10 As shown, with the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 joined together, the second radial rib 36c and the second circumferential rib 36d engage with the engaging recess 35e. During the assembly of the fan unit 30, the relative positions of the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 are determined by engaging the engaging recess 35e with the second radial rib 36c and the second circumferential rib 36d. The engaging recess 35e, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d function as positioning portions for positioning when the first fan housing and the second fan housing are joined.

[0138] like Figure 11As shown, with the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 engaged, the first radial rib 35c, the first circumferential rib 35d, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d are in contact with the vibration damping member 46. Since the second radial rib 36c and the second circumferential rib 36d engage with the engaging recess 35e, the first radial rib 35c and the second radial rib 36c are positioned at the same position in the circumferential direction. Similarly, the first circumferential rib 35d and the second circumferential rib 36d are positioned at the same position in the radial direction. Therefore, the first radial rib 35c, the first circumferential rib 35d, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d clamp and press the vibration damping member 46 in the axial direction. The stator 45 is fixed relative to the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 via the vibration damping member 46. The first radial rib 35c and the second radial rib 36c suppress the radial vibration of the fan motor 40. The first circumferential rib 35d and the second circumferential rib 36d suppress the circumferential vibration of the fan motor 40.

[0139] As described above, the radii of curvature of the first radial rib 35c, the first circumferential rib 35d, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d are larger than the radius of curvature of the vibration damping component 46. The first radial rib 35c, the first circumferential rib 35d, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d make point or short-line contact with the corners of the vibration damping component 46. Due to the small contact area, the vibration of the fan motor 40 is hardly transmitted to the first radial rib 35c, the first circumferential rib 35d, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d.

[0140] Furthermore, to increase the airflow from the fan unit, it is desirable to maximize the impeller diameter. However, driving a large-diameter impeller requires increasing the output of the fan motor, necessitating a larger fan motor and consequently increasing the size of the fan unit. Therefore, in this embodiment, by using an axial clearance type motor as the fan motor 40, a large-diameter impeller 31 and 32 can be used while reducing the thickness of the fan motor 40, achieving a large airflow and compact fan unit 30. For example, the radial length W3 of the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32 is more than three times the thickness of the fan motor 40.

[0141] (3) Installation structure of deodorizing filter

[0142] Reference Figures 12 to 15 The mounting structures of the deodorizing filters 25 and 26 relative to the housing 11 will be described. It should be noted that since the mounting structures of the first deodorizing filter 25 and the second deodorizing filter 26 are axially symmetrical with respect to an axis extending in the vertical direction, only the mounting structure of the first deodorizing filter 25 will be described in detail below, and the description of the mounting structure of the second deodorizing filter 26 will be omitted.

[0143] The first deodorizing filter 25 is mounted on the grille 71 located on the housing 11. The first deodorizing filter 25 is mounted on the grille 71 by means of a pin 72, a fixing part 73, and a rod 74.

[0144] (3-1) Grille

[0145] The grille 71 is arranged in the air passage P between the first deodorizing filter 25 and the fan unit 30. The grille 71 is integrally formed with the frame 70, which is part of the housing 11.

[0146] (3-2) Pin

[0147] Two pins 72 are arranged on the upper part of the grille 71. The two pins 72 are arranged separately, front and back. The pins 72 protrude toward the side opposite to the fan unit 30. The pins 72 are inserted into the first deodorizing filter 25. The pins 72 support the first deodorizing filter 25 with the first deodorizing filter 25 positioned along the grille 71.

[0148] (3-3) Fixing components

[0149] The fixing component 73 is located below and forward of the first intake port 15. The fixing component 73 is separate from the housing 11 (i.e., separate from the grille 71). The fixing component 73 is fixed to the housing 11. Figure 13 As shown, the fixing member 73 has a vertical wall portion 73a extending in both the vertical and horizontal directions, and three ribs 73b protruding from the vertical wall portion 73a toward the grille 71. The three ribs 73b are arranged at equal intervals in the horizontal direction. Figure 14 As shown, with the first deodorizing filter 25 installed, rib 73b is in contact with the first deodorizing filter 25.

[0150] (3-4) rods

[0151] Rod 74 presses the first deodorizing filter 25 from the inside of the housing 11 towards the outside (in this case, from left to right). For example... Figures 13 to 15 As shown, the rod 74 has a rod body 74a, a contact portion 74b that contacts the first deodorizing filter 25, and a spring 74c for applying force to the rod body 74a.

[0152] The rod body 74a is located below the grille 71 and in the space between the grille 71 and the bottom plate 11b of the housing 11. For example... Figure 15 As shown, the rod body 74a is plate-shaped, extending in both the front-to-back and left-to-right directions. The rod body 74a rotates about the rod axis 74d extending from the housing 11.

[0153] The contact portion 74b is located on the right side and forward of the rod body 74a. The contact portion 74b is integral with the rod body 74a. The contact portion 74b is positioned at the window portion 71a provided on the grille 71. The contact portion 74b can be exposed through the window portion 71a at a position further to the right than the grille 71. The contact portion 74b has two ribs 74e extending towards the right. The ribs 74e are separated in the front-rear direction. Figure 14 As shown, with the first deodorizing filter 25 installed, the rib 74e contacts the first deodorizing filter 25 and presses the first deodorizing filter 25 from the inside to the outside of the housing 11.

[0154] Spring 74c is a torsion coil spring. One end of spring 74c is fixed to the housing 11. The middle part of spring 74c is wound around the rod shaft 74d. Spring 74c applies a counterclockwise rotational force to the rod body 74a.

[0155] (3-5) Installation method of deodorizing filter

[0156] When installing the first deodorizing filter 25, it is first positioned between the fixing member 73 and the contact portion 74b. When positioned between the fixing member 73 and the contact portion 74b, the contact portion 74b is slightly moved to the left and back. The contact portion 74b presses the first deodorizing filter 25 from the inside of the housing 11 outwards using the force of the spring 74c transmitted via the rod body 74a. Since the first deodorizing filter 25 is restricted from moving to the right by the fixing member 73, only the periphery of the contact portion that contacts the contact portion 74b moves slightly to the right. The lower part of the first deodorizing filter 25 is then held between the fixing member 73 and the contact portion 74b. Then, the pin 72 is inserted into the upper part of the first deodorizing filter 25. The upper part of the first deodorizing filter 25 is supported by the pin 72. Thus, the first deodorizing filter 25 is installed.

[0157] A sensor SW is arranged on the front side of the rod body 74a. The sensor SW is a contact sensor. The sensor SW is triggered when the first deodorizing filter 25 is arranged between the fixing member 73 and the contact portion 74b. Specifically, the sensor SW is triggered when the contact portion 74b retracts to the left and the rod body 74a rotates clockwise. The sensor SW is used to confirm whether the first deodorizing filter 25 has been properly arranged.

[0158] (4) Pathways of bioactive species

[0159] Reference Figure 12 , Figures 16 to 18The first release pathway 80 and the second release pathway 87, which supply the active species generated by the discharge units 27 and 28, will be described below. It should be noted that, since the first release pathway 80 and the second release pathway 87 are symmetrical, only the first release pathway 80 will be described in detail below, while the detailed description of the second release pathway 87 will be omitted.

[0160] The first release passage 80 has: an inflow pipe 81 that draws in a portion of the air released from the fan unit 30; a horizontal pipe 82 that diverts the active species in the front-back direction; a front release pipe 83 located on the front side and releasing the active species; and a rear release pipe 84 located on the rear side and releasing the active species.

[0161] (4-1) Inflow pipe

[0162] like Figure 16 As shown, the first discharge unit 27 is arranged in the discharge space 27a of the first release passage 27. The inflow pipe 81 connects the main air passage P to the discharge space 27a. The inflow pipe 81 is located at the center of the entire air purifier 10 in the front-rear direction. The inflow pipe 81 has: an upper inclined portion 81a extending upwards and to the right; a straight pipe portion 81b extending straight to the right; and a lower inclined portion 81c extending downwards and to the right. The straight pipe portion 81b has a rib 81d protruding upwards and extending in the front-rear direction. The rib 81d prevents foreign objects such as water from entering.

[0163] (4-2) Horizontal pipes

[0164] like Figure 17 As shown, the horizontal pipe 82 extends from the discharge space 27a in a front-to-back direction. The front end of the horizontal pipe 82 is connected to the front release pipe 83. The rear end of the horizontal pipe 82 is connected to the rear release pipe 84.

[0165] (4-3) Front release pipe, rear release pipe

[0166] like Figure 12 As shown, the front release conduit 83 and the rear release conduit 84 extend vertically. The front release conduit 83 has five front release holes 83a that release active species. The front release holes 83a open to the right and rearward. The rear release conduit 84 has five rear release holes 84a that release active species. The rear release holes 84a open to the right and frontward. The front release holes 83a and the rear release holes 84a are equally spaced at the same positions in the vertical direction.

[0167] like Figure 18As shown, the front release conduit 83 is composed of a frame 70 forming a grille 71 and a front cover component 85. The rear release conduit 84 is composed of a frame 70 forming a grille 71 and a rear cover component 86. In other words, two release conduits 83 and 84 are formed by three components. The front cover component 85 also forms part of the front release conduit of the second release passage 87. The rear cover component 86 is provided separately for the first release passage 80 and the second release passage 87.

[0168] (4-4) Mobility of living species

[0169] Because the first release passage 80 is connected to the first intake 15 via the front release port 83a and the rear release port 84a, the air pressure in the first release passage 80 is lower than the air pressure downstream of the outlets 33d and 34d of the fan unit 30 (upstream of the humidification unit 50). In particular, the air pressure in the inflow pipe 81 is the highest in the first release passage 80, and the air pressure in the release pipes 83 and 84 is the lowest. Therefore, a portion of the air released from the fan unit 30 flows into the discharge space 27a via the inflow pipe 81. The air flowing into the discharge space 27a is subjected to streamer discharge by the first discharge unit 27. Active species are generated through streamer discharge. The generated active species are split in the front-to-back direction and flow through the horizontal pipe 82. The active species flowing forward in the horizontal pipe 82 are released from the front release port 83a to the upstream side of the first HEPA filter 23 via the front release pipe 83. Active species flowing rearward in horizontal conduit 82 are released from rear release port 84a into the upstream side of the first HEPA filter 23 via rear release conduit 84. In this way, active species are released from opposite sides of the first HEPA filter 23. The released active species adhere to the first HEPA filter 23, oxidizing and decomposing odor components in the air passing through the first HEPA filter 23.

[0170] (5) Operational actions

[0171] The operation of the air purifier 10 is explained below. The air purifier 10 performs purification and humidification purification operations. The purification operation purifies the air in the target space. During purification operation, the humidification function is stopped. The humidification purification operation simultaneously purifies and humidifies the air in the target space.

[0172] (5-1) Purification Operation

[0173] During purification operation, fan unit 30 and discharge units 27 and 28 are operational. In principle, humidifying rotor 54 is in a stopped state. First air valve 61 and second air valve 62 are open. Air in the indoor space S is drawn into air passage P through first intake 15, second intake 16, and third intake 19, respectively. The air drawn in through first intake 15 and second intake 16 passes through pre-filters 21 and 22, respectively. Larger dust particles in the air are captured in each pre-filter 21 and 22.

[0174] After passing through pre-filters 21 and 22, the air sequentially passes through HEPA filters 23 and 24 and deodorizing filters 25 and 26. In each HEPA filter 23 and 24, the odor components in the air are oxidized and decomposed by the active species generated in each discharge unit 27 and 28.

[0175] A portion of the air blown out from the fan unit 30 flows in the primary space 51a, and the remainder flows in the secondary space 51b. The air in the primary space 51a and the air in the secondary space 51b flow upward along the side of the humidifying rotor 54 and are blown into the indoor space S from the outlet 12.

[0176] (5-2) Humidification and purification operation

[0177] During humidification and purification operation, fan unit 30 and discharge units 27 and 28 are operational. In principle, humidification rotor 54 is rotating. First air valve 61 and second air valve 62 are closed. During humidification and purification operation, air is purified in the same manner as during purification operation described above.

[0178] All the air blown out from the fan unit 30 flows through the primary space 51a. The air in the primary space 51a passes axially through the humidifying rotor 54. In the humidifying rotor 54, the moisture from the water-absorbing component is transferred to the air. The air that has been humidified in the humidifying rotor 54 flows into the secondary space 51b, and is then blown into the indoor space S from the outlet 12.

[0179] (6) Effects of the implementation method

[0180] In this embodiment, the fan unit 30 comprises a first fan housing 33 housing the first impeller 31 and a second fan housing 34 housing the second impeller 32, forming a motor housing space 47 for housing the fan motor 40. The fan motor 40 is housed within the fan housings 33 and 34, thereby enabling the fan motor 40, impellers 31 and 32, and fan housings 33 and 34 to form a single integrated structure. As the fan unit 30, since no separate support component for the fan motor 40 is required, it can achieve a compact structure even with multiple impellers 31 and 32.

[0181] Furthermore, by housing the fan motor 40 within the fan housings 33 and 34, the fan unit 30 can increase the area of ​​the outlets 33d and 34d of the fan housings 33 and 34 within a limited installation area, compared to the case where a separate support member for the fan motor 40 is provided. Moreover, by housing the fan motor 40 and impellers 31 and 32 within the fan housings 33 and 34, the fan unit 30 can utilize the air flowing within the fan housings 33 and 34 to cool the fan motor 40.

[0182] In this embodiment, the first fan housing 33 forms part of the motor housing 47, and the second fan housing 34 forms the remaining part of the motor housing 47. In a second aspect, by dividing the motor housing 47, the load supporting the motor body 41 within the motor housing 47 and the load generated during the operation of the fan motor 40 can be distributed between the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34. This enables a compact and stable fan unit 30.

[0183] In this embodiment, the first distance L1, which is the distance from the first support portion 42c supporting the first impeller 31 to the end of the first fixing portion 43c of the motor body 41, and the second distance L2, which is the distance from the second support portion 42d supporting the second impeller 32 to the end of the second fixing portion 44c of the motor body 41, are both 4.4 mm or more. In particular, the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are both between 4.4 mm and 6.0 mm.

[0184] Axial vibrations of the fan motor 40 may be transmitted to the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32 via the output shaft 42. If the vibrations are transmitted to the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32, abnormal noises may occur. Figure 19 This shows the noise level as the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are varied. The vertical axis represents the volume, and the horizontal axis represents the frequency of the sound. Figure 19 In the diagram, a dashed line indicates the case where the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are 2.8 mm, a solid line indicates the case where they are 4.4 mm, and a dashed line indicates the case where they are 6.0 mm. It can be seen that the overall volume is reduced when the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 are 4.4 mm compared to when they are 6.0 mm. Furthermore, comparing the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 at 4.4 mm with those at 6.0 mm shows that the overall volume is not significantly reduced. Therefore, by setting the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 to 4.4 mm to 6.0 mm, space-saving of the fan unit 30 can be achieved while suppressing abnormal noise caused by the vibration of the fan motor 40.

[0185] In this embodiment, a vibration damping member 46 is provided on the outer periphery of the motor body 41, and the fan housings 33 and 34 have a first radial rib 35c, a first circumferential rib 35d, a second radial rib 36c, and a second circumferential rib 36d that contact the vibration damping member 46. These ribs allow the vibration damping member 46 to be pressed, thus suppressing movement of the motor body 41 and the vibration damping member 46 together. Therefore, the vibration damping member 46 can appropriately absorb the vibration of the motor body 41.

[0186] In this embodiment, the first radial rib 35c, the first circumferential rib 35d, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d have curved surfaces, and the vibration damping member 46 contacts these curved surfaces. In particular, the radius of curvature of these curved surfaces is greater than the radius of curvature of the corners of the vibration damping member 46. This allows the contact state between the first radial rib 35c, the first circumferential rib 35d, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d and the vibration damping member 46 to be point contact or short-line contact, thereby minimizing the contact area. By reducing the contact area, the overall vibration damping effect of the fan unit 30 can be improved.

[0187] In this embodiment, since the vibration damping component 46 is an elastomer, the vibration damping effect can be further improved.

[0188] In this embodiment, the first fan housing 33 has a first rib 35 that surrounds the fan motor 40 and extends toward the second fan housing 34. The second fan housing 34 has a second rib 36 that surrounds the fan motor 40 and extends toward the first fan housing 33. The first rib 35 and the second rib 36 overlap in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis X. Because the first rib 35 and the second rib 36 overlap in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis X, it is possible to prevent foreign objects such as water from entering the storage space 47. In particular, in this embodiment, since the first rib 35 abuts against the surface of the second fan housing 34 where the second rib 36 is provided, i.e., the second surface 34h, it is possible to more effectively prevent foreign objects such as water from entering the storage space 47.

[0189] In this embodiment, the first fan housing 33 has a locking recess 35e, which serves as a positioning portion for positioning when combined with the second fan housing 34. The second fan housing 34 has a second radial rib 36c and a second circumferential rib 36d that engage with the locking recess 35e and also serve as positioning portions. The locking recess 35e, the second radial rib 36c, and the second circumferential rib 36d facilitate positioning when the first fan housing 33 and the second fan housing 34 are combined. This allows for easy assembly of the fan unit 30.

[0190] In this embodiment, the radial length W3 of the first impeller 31 and the second impeller 32 is more than three times the thickness L3 of the fan motor 40. Furthermore, the fan motor 40 is an axial clearance type motor. Therefore, by reducing the thickness of the fan motor 40 while using large-diameter impellers 31 and 32, a large-volume and compact fan unit 30 can be achieved.

[0191] The air purifier 10 in this embodiment includes a fan unit 30 and a housing 11 that houses the fan unit 30. By using a fan unit 30 with a fan motor 40 housed within fan housings 33 and 34, a separate support for the fan motor 40 is not required within the housing 11, saving space. By using the saved space to increase the mounting area of ​​the impellers 31 and 32, the airflow of the air purifier 10 can be increased. Furthermore, compared to arranging the fan motor 40 outside the fan housings 33 and 34, the impellers 31 and 32 can be arranged near the intake ports 15 and 16. Since it is easier to draw in air from the target space, the air purification effect can be improved.

[0192] In this embodiment, the housing 11 has a first air intake 15 and a second air intake 16 on both sides in the direction of the fan motor's rotation axis. HEPA filters 23 and 24 and deodorizing filters 25 and 26 are arranged in the air passage P from the first air intake 15 and the second air intake 16 to the fan unit 30. By arranging the HEPA filters 23 and 24 and the deodorizing filters 25 and 26 separately in two locations, the total filter area can be increased, and pressure loss can be suppressed. By suppressing pressure loss, a high airflow rate can be achieved in the air purifier 10. Furthermore, compared to the case where the HEPA filters 23 and 24 and the deodorizing filters 25 and 26 are located downstream (in this case, above) of the fan unit 30's outlets 33d and 34d, the height of the housing 11 can be minimized as much as possible.

[0193] In this embodiment, the housing 11 has a third intake port 19 for drawing air in from the front and a relay passage 19a for directing the air drawn in from the third intake port 19 to flow upstream of the filters 23, 24, 25, and 26. By drawing air in from multiple locations and properly passing it through the filters 23, 24, 25, and 26, air purification efficiency can be improved.

[0194] In this embodiment, the housing 11 has a grille 71 between the deodorizing filters 25 and 26 and the fan unit 30, and includes a fixing member 73 and a rod 74 that fix the deodorizing filters 25 and 26 in a position where they are arranged along the grille 71. This prevents accidental movement of the deodorizing filters 25 and 26, thereby maintaining a high level of air purification efficiency. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the deodorizing filters 25 and 26 are supported vertically by pins 72 provided on the grille 71, thus more effectively preventing movement of the deodorizing filters 25 and 26.

[0195] In this embodiment, discharge units 27 and 28 are included to generate active species. The housing 11 has release passages 80 and 87, which release the active species generated by the discharge units 27 and 28 upstream of the HEPA filters 23 and 24 and the deodorizing filters 25 and 26. As described in this embodiment, even if the HEPA filters 23 and 24 and the deodorizing filters 25 and 26 are located upstream of the impellers 31 and 32, the active species can be attached to the filters 23, 24, 25, and 26 through the release passages 80 and 87, thereby improving the air purification effect. In particular, since the release passages 80 and 87 have multiple release holes 83a and 84a on both sides of the opposite sides of the HEPA filters 23 and 24, the active species can be attached to the entire surface of the HEPA filters 23 and 24.

[0196] (7) Variations

[0197] The above-described embodiments can also adopt the following modified structures.

[0198] like Figure 20 As shown, the appearance of the first fan housing 233 and the second fan housing 234 are asymmetrically formed with respect to a plane orthogonal to the rotation axis X. Specifically, the second outlet 234a is arranged forward-biased relative to the first outlet 233a. Even in this configuration, the fan motor 40 is housed within the motor housing space 47 formed by the first fan housing 233 and the second fan housing 234.

[0199] It should be noted that any structure can be adopted as long as the appearance of the first fan housing 233 and the second fan housing 234 is asymmetrical with respect to a plane orthogonal to the rotation axis X. For example, the second outlet 234a can be inclined in the front-to-back direction relative to the first outlet 233a. Alternatively, the dimension of the second impeller 32 in the rotation axis X direction can be smaller than the dimension of the first impeller 31 in the rotation axis X direction, and the dimension of the second fan housing 234 in the rotation axis X direction can be smaller than the dimension of the first fan housing 233 in the rotation axis X direction.

[0200] (8) Other implementation methods

[0201] The fan unit 30 can also be used in devices other than the air purifier 10. For example, the fan unit 30 can also be used in an air supply device.

[0202] Air purifier 10 may also exclude humidification unit 50.

[0203] A portion of the motor housing 47 is formed in the first fan housing 33, and the remainder is formed in the second fan housing 34. The motor housing 47 may also be formed only in the first fan housing 33 or only in the second fan housing 34. For example, when the motor housing 47 is formed only in the first fan housing 33, the motor housing 47 may be formed only by the first rib 35, and the second rib 36 may be omitted.

[0204] The embodiments and variations have been described above; however, it should be understood that various changes can be made to the manner and specific details without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, appropriate combinations or substitutions can be made to the above embodiments, variations, and other embodiments as long as the function of the object of this disclosure is not impaired.

[0205] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., mentioned above are only used to distinguish statements containing these terms and do not limit the number or order of the statements.

[0206] -Industry Applicability-

[0207] In summary, this disclosure is useful for fan units and air purifiers.

[0208] - Symbol Explanation -

[0209] 10 Air purifiers

[0210] 11. Chassis

[0211] 15 First Inlet (Main Inlet)

[0212] 16 Second Inlet (Main Inlet)

[0213] 19 Third Inlet

[0214] 19a relay path

[0215] 23 First HEPA Filter

[0216] 24 Second HEPA filter

[0217] 25 First deodorizing filter

[0218] 26 Second deodorizing filter

[0219] 27 First Discharge Unit (Active Species Generation Section)

[0220] 28 Second Discharge Unit (Active Species Generation Unit)

[0221] 30 fan units

[0222] 31 First impeller

[0223] 32 Second impeller

[0224] 33 First Fan Housing

[0225] 34 Second Fan Housing

[0226] 35 First Rib

[0227] 35c First radial rib (contact area)

[0228] 35d First week towards the rib (contact area)

[0229] 35e Engagement recess (positioning part)

[0230] 36 Second Rib

[0231] 36c Second radial rib (contact part, positioning part)

[0232] 36d Second rib (contact part, positioning part)

[0233] 40 Fan motor

[0234] 41 Motor body

[0235] 42 Output shaft

[0236] 43a Peripheral part

[0237] 44a Peripheral part

[0238] 46 Anti-vibration components

[0239] 47. Motor storage space

[0240] 71 Grille

[0241] 73. Fixing components (fixing parts)

[0242] 74 rods (fixed part)

[0243] 80 First Release Pathway

[0244] 87 Second Release Pathway

[0245] 233 First Fan Housing

[0246] 234 Second Fan Housing

[0247] L1 First Distance

[0248] L2 Second Distance

[0249] L3 Third Distance

[0250] P air passage

[0251] Radial length of W3 impeller

[0252] X Rotation Axis

Claims

1. A fan unit, characterized in that: The fan unit includes a fan motor (40), a first impeller (31), a second impeller (32), a first fan housing (33), and a second fan housing (34). The fan motor (40) has a motor body (41) and output shafts (42) extending from the motor body (41) to both sides in the direction of rotation axis. The first impeller (31) is connected to one side of the output shaft (42). The second impeller (32) is connected to the other side of the output shaft (42) and is arranged together with the first impeller (31) to sandwich the fan motor (40). The first fan housing (33) houses the first impeller (31). The second fan housing (34) houses the second impeller (32). At least one of the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) has a storage space (47) for accommodating the fan motor (40).

2. The fan unit according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first fan housing (33) forms part of the storage space (47). The second fan housing (34) constitutes the remainder of the storage space (47).

3. The fan unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) are fastened to the output shaft (42). The first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are both 4.4 mm or more. The first distance (L1) is the distance from the end of the fastening part between the first impeller (31) and the output shaft (42) on the side of the motor body (41) to the end of the motor body (41) on the side of the first impeller (31). The second distance (L2) is the distance from the end of the fastening part between the second impeller (32) and the output shaft (42) on the side of the motor body (41) to the end of the motor body (41) on the side of the second impeller (32).

4. The fan unit according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are 4.4 mm to 6.0 mm, respectively.

5. The fan unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: A vibration damping component (46) is provided on the outer periphery of the motor body (41). The first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) have contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) that contact the vibration damping component (46).

6. The fan unit according to claim 5, characterized in that: The contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) have curved surfaces. The vibration damping component (46) makes curved contact with the contact portion (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d).

7. The fan unit according to claim 6, characterized in that: The radius of curvature of the surface of the contact portion (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) is greater than the radius of curvature of the contact portion of the vibration damping component (46).

8. The fan unit according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that: The vibration damping component (46) is an elastomer.

9. The fan unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The first fan housing (33) has a first rib (35) which surrounds the fan motor (40) and extends toward the second fan housing (34). The second fan housing (34) has a second rib (36) which surrounds the fan motor (40) and extends toward the first fan housing (33). The first rib (35) and the second rib (36) overlap in a direction orthogonal to the direction of the rotation axis.

10. The fan unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) have positioning parts (35e, 36c, 36d) for positioning when they are joined together.

11. The fan unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: The appearance of the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) are asymmetrical with respect to a plane orthogonal to the direction of the rotation axis.

12. The fan unit according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: The radial length (W3) of the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) is more than three times the thickness (L3) of the fan motor (40).

13. The fan unit according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: The fan motor (40) is an axial gap type motor.

14. An air purifier, characterized in that: The air purifier includes the fan unit (30) as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, and The housing (11) that houses the fan unit (30).

15. The air purifier according to claim 14, characterized in that: The housing (11) has main air intake ports (15, 16) on both sides in the direction of the rotation axis. Filters (23, 24, 25, 26) are arranged in the air passage (P) from the main intake (15, 16) to the fan unit (30).

16. The air purifier according to claim 15, characterized in that: The housing (11) has a secondary intake port (19) and a relay passage (19a). The auxiliary intake port (19) draws in air from directions orthogonal to both the rotation axis and the vertical direction. The relay passage (19a) causes the air drawn in from the secondary inlet (19) to flow towards the upstream side of the filters (23, 24, 25, 26).

17. The air purifier according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that: The housing (11) has a grille (71) between the filters (25, 26) and the fan unit (30). The air purifier includes a fixing part (73, 74) that fixes the filter (25, 26) in a state where the filter (25, 26) is arranged along the grille (71).

18. The air purifier according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that: The air purifier includes an active species generating unit (27, 28) for generating active species. The housing (11) has release passages (80, 87) that release the active species generated by the active species generating unit (27, 28) towards an upstream side relative to the filter (23, 24, 25, 26).

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