Air supply device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an air supply device capable of minimizing a decrease in air volume and sufficiently exerting hair entanglement suppression performance. An air supply device (1) of the present disclosure includes a housing (3) having a suction port and a discharge port; a suction flow path (25) provided inside the housing (3) for air suctioned from the suction port to flow; a fan (5) provided inside the housing (3) to suction air from the suction port and discharge the air from the discharge port; a filter provided at the suction port; and a partition wall member (9) provided inside the suction flow path (25) and arranged between the filter and the fan (5), wherein the partition wall member (9) has a partition wall portion (43) that makes an opening ratio of the suction flow path (25) with respect to an opening area 40% to 80%.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an air supply device. Background Technology

[0002] The conventional air supply device disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; and an intake flow path disposed inside the housing for air drawn in from the inlet to flow through. It also includes: a fan disposed inside the housing, which draws in air from the inlet and discharges the air from the outlet; and a filter disposed at the inlet. A second filter, serving as a partition wall member, is also included, disposed inside the intake flow path and positioned between the filter and the fan.

[0003] In air supply devices, there are instances where hair can enter the interior through the filter due to air intake. The hair that enters the interior may become entangled with the rotating fan, making it impossible to remove from the filter. In the air supply device disclosed in Patent Document 1, a second filter is positioned between the first filter and the fan, thus reducing the distance between the second filter and the fan. Therefore, the space for hair to become entangled is reduced, suppressing hair entanglement and allowing the hair to be removed from the filter.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-123525 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, in the air supply device of Patent Document 1, the second filter, which serves as a partition wall component, has a filter frame and a mesh filter, and the filter frame and mesh filter are integrated. The filter frame consists of an annular outer peripheral wall and five rib-shaped walls extending radially from the center of the outer peripheral wall, with only the five rib-shaped walls contributing to the flow resistance of the air flowing in the intake flow path. The mesh filter has an opening ratio of approximately 90%, which suppresses the air flow resistance. However, in the second filter of Patent Document 1, in order to maximize the suppression of the decrease in airflow caused by the increase in flow resistance, the opening ratio of the intake flow path relative to the opening area is relatively high, which may result in insufficient hair entanglement suppression performance.

[0009] This disclosure was made in view of the problems inherent in the prior art. Furthermore, the object of this disclosure is to provide an air supply device capable of minimizing airflow reduction and fully utilizing hair entanglement suppression performance.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] The air supply device disclosed herein comprises: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; an inlet flow path disposed inside the housing for air to flow from the inlet; a fan disposed inside the housing for drawing air from the inlet and discharging air from the outlet; a filter disposed at the inlet; and a partition wall member disposed inside the inlet flow path and disposed between the filter and the fan, the partition wall member having a partition wall portion that gives the opening ratio of the inlet flow path relative to the opening area of ​​40% to 80%.

[0012] The effects of the invention

[0013] According to this disclosure, an air supply device can be provided that can minimize the decrease in air volume and fully exert the hair entanglement suppression performance. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a side view of the air supply device according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the air supply device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a front view of the air supply device of the first embodiment when the partition wall component is removed.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a front view of the air supply device of the first embodiment when the filter is removed.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a front view of the partition wall component of the air supply device according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 It is a graph showing the change in the rate of decrease of air volume of the air supply device in the first embodiment relative to the opening ratio of the intake flow path.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a graph showing the change in the hair twisting rate of the air supply device in the first embodiment relative to the opening ratio of the suction flow path.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a front view of the air supply device of the second embodiment when the filter is removed.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a front view of the partition wall component of the air supply device according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a front view of the air supply device of the third embodiment when the filter is removed.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a front view of the partition wall component of the air supply device according to the third embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12 This is a front view of the air supply device of the fourth embodiment when the filter is removed.

[0026] Figure 13 This is a front view of the partition wall component of the air supply device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 Enlarged view of the main parts.

[0028] Figure 15 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the main part of the air supply device in the fifth embodiment.

[0029] Figure 16 This is a front view of the air supply device of the sixth embodiment when the filter is removed.

[0030] Figure 17 This is a front view of the partition wall component of the air supply device according to the sixth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, there are instances where unnecessary details are omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters may be omitted, or substantially identical structures may be described repeatedly.

[0032] Furthermore, the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter of the claims.

[0033] (First Embodiment)

[0034] use Figures 1 to 7 The first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a side view of the air supply device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the air supply device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 This is a front view of the air supply device 1 of the first embodiment when the partition wall member 9 is removed. Figure 4 This is a front view of the air supply device 1 of the first embodiment when the filter 7 is removed. Figure 5 This is a front view of the partition wall member 9 of the air supply device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 It is a graph showing the change in the rate of decrease of air volume of the air supply device 1 in the first embodiment relative to the opening ratio of the intake flow path 25. Figure 7 This is a graph showing the change in the hair twisting rate of the air supply device 1 in the first embodiment relative to the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25.

[0035] like Figures 1-5 As shown, the air supply device 1 of this embodiment is applied, for example, to a hair dryer. The air supply device 1 includes a housing 3, a fan 5, a filter 7, and a partition wall member 9.

[0036] like Figures 1-4 As shown, the housing 3 includes a gripping housing 11, a main housing 13, and a flow path housing 15.

[0037] The grip housing 11 is cylindrical and serves as the outer surface that is held by the user when using the air supply device 1. A switch section 17 for the power switch of the air supply device 1 is provided on the grip housing 11. The switch section 17 is electrically connected to electrical components disposed inside the housing 3 and to a power cord (not shown) extending outward from the end of the grip housing 11. The switch section 17 has a sliding button disposed on the outer surface of the grip housing 11, which intermittently supplies power to the electrical components. Furthermore, the switch section 17 can also switch the airflow rate via the button operation. The grip housing 11 is rotatably connected to the main housing 13 via a connecting part 19. The grip housing 11 can rotate relative to the main housing 13, for example, so that the air supply device 1 appears as a letter T when in use. The grip housing 11 can also rotate relative to the main housing 13, for example, so that it is folded close to the main housing 13 when storing the air supply device 1.

[0038] The main housing 13 is formed in a cylindrical shape with an airflow path for airflow inside. An opening on one side of the main housing 13 along its length serves as an intake port 21 for drawing air inwards. An opening on the other side of the main housing 13 along its length serves as an exhaust port 23 for discharging internal air outwards. Therefore, inside the main housing 13, air flows with the intake port 21 upstream and the exhaust port 23 downstream of the airflow. Furthermore, although not shown, the main housing 13 includes, for example, a switch with a button for switching air temperature, a display for showing air temperature, and an indicator light for showing the operation of the air supply device 1. The switch and display are electrically connected to a control board provided on the main housing 13.

[0039] The flow path housing 15 is formed in a cylindrical shape to provide an airflow path for air to flow inside. An intake flow path 25 is formed on the intake port 21 side of the flow path housing 15 to allow air to flow from the intake port 21. The opening area 27 of the intake flow path 25 is set to be smaller than the opening area of ​​the intake port 21, and its center is positioned offset from the center of the intake port 21, located above it. The end of the opening 27 of the intake flow path 25 is formed into a tapered shape that expands radially outward. By forming the end of the opening 27 into a tapered shape, air can be introduced into the intake flow path 25 without reducing the flow rate of air drawn in from the intake port 21.

[0040] The outlet 23 side of the flow path housing 15 forms an outlet flow path that guides the air flowing through the intake flow path 25 to the outlet 23. The opening area of ​​the outlet flow path is set to be equal to the opening area of ​​the outlet 23, and its center is located at the same position as the center of the outlet 23. A heater 29 for heating the flowing air is provided in the outlet flow path. The heater 29 is electrically connected to a power supply and a temperature control switch, and operates intermittently by operating the button on the temperature control switch. A fan 5 is disposed inside the flow path housing 15.

[0041] like Figures 2-4 As shown, in the fan 5, a plurality of blades 33 integrally formed with the head 31 are provided on the outer periphery of the head 31. The head 31 and the blades 33 are rotated by a motor 35 electrically connected to a power source. In the fan 5, the head 31 and the blades 33 are disposed inside the intake flow path 25 of the flow path housing 15, and the motor 35 is disposed inside the discharge flow path of the flow path housing 15. The fan 5 rotates by moving towards... Figure 4 The fan 5 rotates in the direction A (i.e., the direction of the arrow), thereby drawing in air through the intake 21 and discharging it through the airflow path of the flow path housing 15 from the outlet 23. The motor 35 is electrically connected to the switch unit 17, and its rotation is controlled by the operation of a button on the switch unit 17, discharging air from the outlet 23 with an airflow corresponding to the controlled rotation. A filter 7 is provided at the intake 21, where air is drawn in by the rotation of the fan 5.

[0042] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3As shown, the filter 7 includes a frame 37 and a mesh 39. The frame 37 is annular in shape, identical to the opening of the intake 21, and is formed into a mesh shape to subdivide the opening area of ​​the intake 21. For the mesh shape of the frame 37, a honeycomb shape is preferred to maintain strength and increase the opening area of ​​the intake 21, thereby increasing airflow. The mesh size of the frame 37 is set based on the size at which a test finger (φ25mm) cannot be inserted, as stipulated by the Electrical Appliance and Material Control Law. Therefore, when using the air supply device 1, the user's finger will not pass through the frame 37 and be inserted into the housing 3. Two of the mesh openings in the frame 37 are designated as screw holes, through which screws 41 are passed and fixed to the housing 3, and positioned at the intake 21. The screw holes are located outside the opening 27 of the intake flow path 25 within the frame 37, preventing a decrease in airflow relative to the intake flow path 25. Furthermore, it suppresses the generation of abnormal noise caused by interference between the large airflow and the screw 41.

[0043] In the mesh 39, for example, a flame-retardant resin such as metal or polyester is formed in a mesh-like manner. The opening ratio of the mesh 39 is set to approximately 55% to 90%. The mesh 39 is embedded and formed inside the frame 37 in a manner located within the frame 37. The mesh 39 inhibits the intrusion of fine dust, hair, etc., into the interior of the housing 3. By embedding and forming the mesh 39 in the frame 37, damage to the mesh 39 caused by friction with the opening edge of the suction port 21 can be suppressed. The mesh 39 is disposed inside the frame 37 at a position near the outer edge of the housing 3. By disposing the mesh 39 at a position near the outer edge of the housing 3, dust and other particles adhering to the mesh 39 can be easily removed from the exterior of the housing 3. Furthermore, since the pattern of the mesh 39 may sometimes be conspicuous when it is disposed at a position near the outer edge of the housing 3, it is preferable to provide fine irregularities or bumps on the outer surface of the frame 37.

[0044] In cases where the distance between the filter 7 and the fan 5 is relatively long, hair that has passed through the filter 7 may sometimes end up between the filter 7 and the fan 5. This hair may come into contact with the fan 5 and converge radially inward, or be bounced radially outward. When multiple hairs converge radially inward, they twist due to the rotation of the fan 5, and simultaneously become entangled on the central axis side of the fan 5. When multiple hairs are bounced radially outward, they twist due to the bounce of the fan 5, and simultaneously become entangled on the outer diameter side of the fan 5. Even if an attempt is made to pull the entangled hairs out of the housing 3, they will become stuck in the filter 7 and cannot be removed. Therefore, to suppress hair entanglement, a partition wall member 9 is provided between the filter 7 and the fan 5.

[0045] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the partition wall member 9 is disposed inside the suction flow path 25 between the filter 7 and the fan 5. The partition wall member 9 has an annular shape identical to the opening 27 of the suction flow path 25, and has partition wall portions 43 that subdivide the opening area of ​​the opening 27 of the suction flow path 25. The partition wall portions 43 are integrally formed into a grid shape at the intersection of multiple longitudinal walls extending in the longitudinal direction and multiple transverse walls extending in the transverse direction. The radially outer ends of the partition wall portions 43 are integrally joined to the inner wall of the suction flow path 25 by bonding, welding, or other joining methods, and the partition wall member 9 is fixed to the housing 3.

[0046] The partition wall member 9 is disposed between the filter 7 and the fan 5, thereby reducing the space for hair to entangle between the filter 7 and the fan 5. Even if multiple hairs that have passed through the partition wall member 9 come into contact with the fan 5, there is no space for twisting that would cause multiple hairs to entangle, thus suppressing hair entanglement. Therefore, when pulling hair out from the outside of the housing 3, the hair will not get stuck in the filter 7, and the hair can be easily pulled out.

[0047] Here, if the partition wall portion 43 of the partition wall member 9 is opened in a manner that reduces the opening ratio of the intake flow path 25 relative to the opening area, then even if hair comes into contact with the fan 5, the twisting caused by the movement of the hair can be suppressed, and hair tangling can be suppressed. Furthermore, the opening ratio refers to the proportion of the degree of opening of the surface in the vertical direction perpendicular to the airflow direction in the intake flow path 25. Therefore, the opening ratio can be obtained by dividing the opening area of ​​the vertical surface in the intake flow path 25 by the opening area of ​​the vertical surface in the intake flow path 25 when the partition wall portion 43 of the partition wall member 9 is present. On the other hand, if the partition wall portion 43 of the partition wall member 9 is opened in a manner that increases the opening ratio of the intake flow path 25 relative to the opening area, then the decrease in the airflow rate flowing in the intake flow path 25 can be suppressed. Therefore, the partition wall portion 43 of the partition wall member 9 is opened in such a way that the hair tangling suppression performance is fully utilized while suppressing the decrease in airflow rate to a minimum, based on the opening ratio of the intake flow path 25 relative to the opening area.

[0048] The range of the opening ratio of the intake flow path 25 relative to the opening area can be derived from the relationship between the opening ratio of the intake flow path 25 and the rate of decrease in airflow, and the relationship between the opening ratio of the intake flow path 25 and the rate of hair torsion. It is generally known that if the opening ratio decreases as in the case where a flow path resistance such as a filter 7 is configured relative to the opening area of ​​the intake port 21, the rate of decrease in airflow increases in a quadratic function form. Therefore, as... Figure 6As shown, based on the approximate curve relating the opening ratio of the opening 27 in the suction flow path 25 to the rate of decrease in airflow, when the upper limit of the rate of decrease in airflow is set to 10%, the lower limit of the opening ratio of the opening 27 in the suction flow path 25 is approximately 40%. On the other hand, it can be seen that: Figure 7 As shown, in the relationship between the opening ratio of the opening 27 of the suction flow path 25 and the hair twisting rate, the hair twisting rate increases when the opening ratio of the opening 27 of the suction flow path 25 is 80%. Therefore, 80% of the opening ratio of the opening 27 of the suction flow path 25, which is the hair twisting rate when it is 0%, becomes the upper limit.

[0049] Based on the above, the partition wall portion 43 of the partition wall member 9 is configured such that the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25 relative to the opening area is 40% to 80%. Therefore, flow path resistance based on the partition wall member 9 can be suppressed, the decrease in airflow in the suction flow path 25 can be suppressed, and the airflow reduction can be minimized. Furthermore, thanks to the partition wall member 9, even if hair comes into contact with the fan 5, the hair will not twist, thus fully utilizing hair entanglement suppression performance. By suppressing hair entanglement, the user does not need to cut the hair entangled in the filter 7, reducing the user's risk.

[0050] Such an air supply device 1 includes: a housing 3 having an intake 21 and an outlet 23; and an intake flow path 25 disposed inside the housing 3 for airflow drawn in from the intake 21. It also includes: a fan 5 disposed inside the housing 3, which draws in air from the intake 21 and discharges the air from the outlet 23; and a filter 7 disposed at the intake 21. It further includes a partition wall member 9 disposed inside the intake flow path 25 and positioned between the filter 7 and the fan 5. Furthermore, the partition wall member 9 has a partition wall portion 43 that sets the opening ratio of the intake flow path 25 relative to the opening area to be 40% to 80%.

[0051] Therefore, the flow resistance based on the partition wall member 9 can be suppressed, the decrease in the airflow rate in the intake flow path 25 can be suppressed, and the decrease in airflow can be minimized. In addition, thanks to the partition wall member 9, even if hair comes into contact with the fan 5, the hair will not twist, and the hair entanglement suppression performance can be fully utilized.

[0052] Therefore, in such an air supply device 1, the decrease in air volume can be minimized, and the hair entanglement suppression performance can be fully utilized.

[0053] (Second Implementation)

[0054] use Figure 8 as well as Figure 9The second embodiment will be described. Figure 8 This is a front view of the air supply device 101 of the second embodiment when the filter is removed. Figure 9 This is a front view of the partition wall member 9 of the air supply device 101 in the second embodiment.

[0055] In the air supply device 101 of this embodiment, the partition wall portion 43 has: an annular wall 103, which is disposed between the central axis of the fan 5 in the radial direction and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25 and is formed in an annular shape; and a connecting wall 105, which connects the annular wall 103 and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25.

[0056] Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used to mark the same structures as in the first embodiment, and the structural and functional descriptions are referenced from the first embodiment but omitted. However, since it is the same structure as in the first embodiment, the effects obtained are the same.

[0057] like Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 As shown, the partition wall portion 43 of the partition wall member 9 includes an annular wall 103 and a connecting wall 105.

[0058] The annular wall 103 is formed in a circular ring shape, centrally located at the same position as the central axis of the fan 5. Multiple annular walls 103 are arranged such that one or more are positioned between the radially central axis of the fan 5 and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25, and that their diameter increases radially outward from the central axis side of the fan 5. Here, three annular walls 103 are provided. When hair passing through the partition wall member 9 comes into contact with the fan 5, the annular walls 103 restrict the radial movement of the hair in the suction flow path 25, suppressing entanglement caused by the twisting of multiple hairs.

[0059] The connecting wall 105 is integrally formed relative to the annular wall 103 and is integrally joined to the inner wall of the suction flow path 25 by means of bonding, welding, or other joining methods, connecting the annular wall 103 and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25. Multiple connecting walls 105 are provided in the circumferential and radial directions of the suction flow path 25. Here, four connecting walls 105 are provided between radially adjacent annular walls 103, 103 at the innermost radial position. Eight connecting walls 105 are provided between radially adjacent annular walls 103, 103 relative to the four connecting walls 105. Eight connecting walls 105 are provided between radially adjacent annular walls 103 and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25 at the outermost radial position. The connecting wall 105 has a first connecting point 107 connecting to the inner wall or annular wall 103 of the radially outer suction flow path 25, and a second connecting point 109 connecting to the radially inner annular wall 103. The plurality of connecting walls 105 extend radially outward from the central axis of the fan 5, with the first connecting point 107 and the second connecting point 109 located on a straight line passing through the central axis of the fan 5. The connecting walls 105 restrict the circumferential movement of hair in the suction flow path 25 when hair passing through the partition wall member 9 comes into contact with the fan 5, suppressing entanglement caused by the twisting of multiple hairs.

[0060] In such an air supply device 101, the partition wall portion 43 has: an annular wall 103, which is disposed between the central axis of the fan 5 in the radial direction and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25 and is formed in an annular shape; and a connecting wall 105, which connects the annular wall 103 and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25.

[0061] The annular wall 103 restricts the radial movement of hair in the suction flow path 25 when it comes into contact with the fan 5 after passing through the partition wall member 9, thus suppressing entanglement caused by the twisting of multiple hairs. The connecting wall 105 restricts the circumferential movement of hair in the suction flow path 25 when it comes into contact with the fan 5 after passing through the partition wall member 9, thus suppressing entanglement caused by the twisting of multiple hairs. Therefore, the partition wall portion 43 having the annular wall 103 and the connecting wall 105 can more effectively suppress hair entanglement.

[0062] (Third implementation)

[0063] use Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 The third embodiment will be described. Figure 10 This is a front view of the air supply device 201 of the third embodiment when the filter is removed. Figure 11 This is a front view of the partition wall member 9 of the air supply device 201 in the third embodiment.

[0064] In the air supply device 201 of this embodiment, the partition wall portion 43 increases the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25 relative to the opening area from the central axis of the fan 5 toward the radially outward.

[0065] Furthermore, multiple connecting walls 105 are provided in the circumferential and radial directions of the suction flow path 25. Moreover, the circumferential spacing of the multiple connecting walls 105 located on the radially outer side is set to be wider than the circumferential spacing of the multiple connecting walls 105 located on the radially inner side.

[0066] In addition, regarding the radial spacing between the annular wall 103 and the components adjacent to the annular wall 103 in the radial direction, including the central axis of the fan 5, the spacing at the radially outer side of the annular wall 103 is set wider than the spacing at the radially inner side of the annular wall 103.

[0067] Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used to mark structures that are the same as those in other embodiments, and the structural and functional descriptions are referred to in other embodiments and omitted. However, since it is the same structure as other embodiments, the effect obtained is the same.

[0068] Generally speaking, at the intake 21, hair is more easily drawn in on the central axis side of the fan 5 than on the outer diameter side of the fan 5. On the other hand, near the fan 5, the airflow on the outer diameter side of the fan 5 is greater than that on the central axis side of the fan 5.

[0069] Therefore, as Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 As shown, the partition wall portion 43 of the partition wall member 9 is configured such that the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25 relative to the opening area increases radially outward from the central axis of the fan 5. Here, eight connecting walls 105 are provided between radially adjacent annular walls 103, 103, and between the annular walls 103 and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25. The circumferential spacing of the multiple connecting walls 105 located radially outward is set wider than the circumferential spacing of the multiple connecting walls 105 located radially inward. Therefore, in the suction flow path 25, the opening area on the radially outward side is larger than the opening area on the radially inward side. On the radially inward side of the suction flow path 25, the opening area of ​​the partition wall member 9 becomes smaller, thus making it less likely for hair to be sucked in and suppressing hair tangling. On the radially inward side of the suction flow path 25, the opening area of ​​the partition wall member 9 becomes larger, thus reducing the flow resistance based on the partition wall member 9 and suppressing the decrease in airflow caused by the partition wall member 9. Furthermore, the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25 can be easily adjusted by adjusting the circumferential spacing of the connecting wall 105.

[0070] The partition wall 43 has multiple annular walls 103 arranged in such a large diameter that they extend radially outward from the central axis side of the fan 5 between the central axis of the fan 5 and the inner wall of the suction flow path 25. Here, three annular walls 103 are provided. Furthermore, the annular wall 103 located at the radially innermost position (the central axis side of the fan 5) is formed in a disc shape and is not open. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, the annular wall 103 located at the radially innermost position will be designated as the first member, and the annular wall 103 located radially outer of the first member will be designated as the second member. Additionally, the annular wall 103 located radially outer of the second member will be designated as the third member, and the inner wall of the suction flow path located radially outer of the third member will be designated as the fourth member.

[0071] The radial spacing between the first and second components is set narrower than the radial spacing between the second and third components. The radial spacing between the second and third components is also set narrower than the radial spacing between the third and fourth components. By setting the radial spacing in this way, the opening area on the radially outer side of the suction flow path 25 is larger than the opening area on the radially inner side. Therefore, on the radially inner side of the suction flow path 25, the opening area of ​​the partition wall component 9 becomes smaller, thus making it less likely for hair to be sucked in and suppressing hair entanglement. On the radially outer side of the suction flow path 25, the opening area of ​​the partition wall component 9 becomes larger, thus reducing the flow resistance based on the partition wall component 9 and suppressing the decrease in airflow caused by the partition wall component 9. Furthermore, the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25 can be easily adjusted by adjusting the radial spacing of the annular wall 103. Furthermore, when the annular wall 103 opening is located at the innermost position (formed in an annular shape), it is sufficient to set the radial distance between the annular wall 103 and the central axis of the fan 5 to the narrowest possible value.

[0072] In such an air supply device 201, the partition wall 43 increases the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25 relative to the opening area from the central axis of the fan 5 toward the radially outward.

[0073] Therefore, on the radially inner side of the suction flow path 25, the opening area of ​​the partition wall member 9 becomes smaller, thus making it difficult for hair to be sucked in and suppressing hair entanglement. On the radially outer side of the suction flow path 25, the opening area of ​​the partition wall member 9 becomes larger, thus reducing the flow resistance based on the partition wall member 9 and suppressing the decrease in airflow caused by the partition wall member 9.

[0074] Furthermore, multiple connecting walls 105 are provided in the circumferential and radial directions of the suction flow path 25. Moreover, the circumferential spacing of the multiple connecting walls 105 located on the radially outer side is set to be wider than the circumferential spacing of the multiple connecting walls 105 located on the radially inner side.

[0075] Therefore, by adjusting the circumferential spacing of the connecting wall 105, the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25 can be easily adjusted.

[0076] In addition, regarding the radial spacing between the annular wall 103 and the components adjacent to the annular wall 103 in the radial direction, including the central axis of the fan 5, the spacing at the radially outer side of the annular wall 103 is set wider than the spacing at the radially inner side of the annular wall 103.

[0077] Therefore, the opening ratio of the suction flow path 25 can be easily adjusted by adjusting the radial spacing of the annular wall 103.

[0078] (Fourth implementation)

[0079] use Figures 12-14 The fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 12 This is a front view of the air supply device 301 of the fourth embodiment when the filter is removed. Figure 13 This is a front view of the partition wall member 9 of the air supply device 301 in the fourth embodiment. Figure 14 yes Figure 12 Enlarged view of the main parts.

[0080] In the air supply device 301 of this embodiment, the connecting wall 105 has a first connecting point 107 that connects to the inner wall or annular wall 103 of the radially outer suction flow path 25, and a second connecting point 109 that connects to the radially inner annular wall 103. Furthermore, the first connecting point 107 is positioned on the opposite side of the rotation direction A of the fan 5 relative to the straight line L passing through the central axis of the fan 5 and the second connecting point 109.

[0081] Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used to mark structures that are the same as those in other embodiments, and the structural and functional descriptions are referred to in other embodiments and omitted. However, since it is the same structure as other embodiments, the effect obtained is the same.

[0082] Here, the following situation exists: hair entering the suction flow path 25 may pass over the blades 33 of the fan 5 and enter the inner part of the suction flow path 25. If the hair that has passed over the blades 33 of the fan 5 remains in its original state, it will become entangled in the blades 33 of the fan 5 and difficult to remove. Therefore, the hair that has passed over the blades 33 of the fan 5 needs to be cut by the rotation of the fan 5.

[0083] like Figures 12-14As shown, in the partition wall member 9, the first connection point 107 of the connecting wall 105, which is opposite to the blade portion 33 of the fan 5 in the air supply direction, is positioned on the opposite side of the rotation direction of the fan 5 relative to the straight line L passing through the central axis of the fan 5 and the second connection point 109. By positioning the first connection point 107 on the opposite side of the rotation direction of the fan 5, the radially outer side of the connecting wall 105 becomes inclined relative to the rotation direction A of the fan 5. Hair that abuts against the inclined connecting wall 105 converges at the second connection point 109 along the inclination of the connecting wall 105 due to the rotation of the fan 5. Here, since the inner diameter side of the blade portion 33 is more easily transmitted with rotational force than the outer diameter side of the blade portion 33, it is easier for the blade portion 33 of the fan 5 to cut the hair. Therefore, the hair that converges at the second connection point 109 can be easily cut by the blade portion 33 through the rotation of the fan 5. The connecting wall 105 is shaped to have a curvature that faces in the opposite direction to the rotation direction of the fan 5. The shape of the connecting wall 105 is formed with curvature in a manner that is symmetrical with the shape of the side of the blade portion 33 in the rotation direction. By setting the connecting wall 105 to a shape that is symmetrical with the side of the blade portion 33 in the rotation direction, it is easier to use the blade portion 33 to cut hair.

[0084] In this air supply device 301, the connecting wall 105 has a first connecting point 107 that connects to the inner wall or annular wall 103 of the radially outer suction flow path 25, and a second connecting point 109 that connects to the radially inner annular wall 103. Furthermore, the first connecting point 107 is positioned on the opposite side of the rotation direction A of the fan 5 relative to the straight line L passing through the central axis of the fan 5 and the second connecting point 109.

[0085] By positioning the first connection point 107 on the opposite side of the rotation direction A of the fan 5, the radially outer side of the connecting wall 105 is tilted relative to the rotation direction A of the fan 5. Hair that has passed through the fan 5 and entered the inner part of the suction flow path 25 is concentrated along the tilt of the connecting wall 105 at the second connection point 109 on the radially inner side where the rotational force of the fan 5 is greater, due to the rotation of the fan 5. Therefore, the hair concentrated at the second connection point 109 can be easily cut by the rotation of the fan 5.

[0086] (Fifth implementation)

[0087] use Figure 15 The fifth embodiment will be described. Figure 15 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the main part of the air supply device 401 in the fifth embodiment.

[0088] In this embodiment, the air supply device 401 has an extension 403 extending from near the second connection point 109 toward the fan 5 in the partition wall member 9.

[0089] Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used to mark structures that are the same as those in other embodiments, and the structural and functional descriptions are referred to in other embodiments and omitted. However, since it is the same structure as other embodiments, the effect obtained is the same.

[0090] like Figure 15 As shown, the partition wall member 9 is provided with a connection point located at the second connection point 109 (see reference). Figure 15 The protrusion 403 extends from the side of the fan 5 near the fan 5. Multiple protrusions 403 are provided corresponding to multiple second connection points 109. The protrusion 403 is configured to clamp hair converging at the second connection point 109 from the side facing the fan 5 in the direction of rotation of the fan blades 33. The protrusion 403 serves as a fulcrum for pressing the hair when cutting it using the fan blades 33. Therefore, by providing the protrusion 403, the fulcrum for cutting hair is close to the fan 5, making it easier to cut hair by rotating the fan 5.

[0091] In such an air supply device 401, the partition wall member 9 is provided with an extension 403 extending from near the second connection point 109 toward the fan 5.

[0092] Therefore, the fulcrum for cutting hair is based on the protrusion 403 and is close to the fan 5, making it easier to cut hair by rotating the fan 5.

[0093] (Sixth implementation)

[0094] use Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 The sixth embodiment will be described. Figure 16 This is a front view of the air supply device 501 of the sixth embodiment when the filter is removed. Figure 17 This is a front view of the partition wall member 9 of the air supply device 501 in the sixth embodiment.

[0095] In the air supply device 501 of this embodiment, multiple connecting walls 105 are provided in the circumferential and radial directions of the suction flow path 25. Furthermore, the connecting walls 105 have a first connecting point 107 that connects to the inner wall or annular wall 103 of the suction flow path 25 located radially outward, and a second connecting point 109 that connects to the annular wall 103 located radially inward. Moreover, the first connecting point 107 and the second connecting point 109 are arranged at different positions relative to the circumferential direction of the annular wall 103.

[0096] Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used to mark structures that are the same as those in other embodiments, and the structural and functional descriptions are referred to in other embodiments and omitted. However, since it is the same structure as other embodiments, the effect obtained is the same.

[0097] like Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 As shown, the first connecting point 107 and the second connecting point 109 of the connecting wall 105 are positioned at different locations relative to the circumferential direction of the annular wall 103. The circumferential position of the first connecting point 107 in the annular wall 103 is such that it is approximately the midpoint of the circumferentially adjacent second connecting points 109, 109. Similarly, the circumferential position of the second connecting point 109 in the annular wall 103 is such that it is approximately the midpoint of the circumferentially adjacent first connecting points 107, 107. By positioning the first connecting point 107 and the second connecting point 109 at different locations relative to the circumferential direction of the annular wall 103, the radially adjacent connecting walls 105, 105 are not radially continuous. Therefore, for example, when an external impact is applied, such as when the air supply device 501 is dropped, the impact is dispersed by the annular wall 103, thereby improving impact resistance. Furthermore, by positioning the first connection point 107 approximately at the midpoint between the adjacent second connection points 109 and 109 in the circumferential direction, and positioning the second connection point 109 approximately at the midpoint between the adjacent first connection points 107 and 107 in the circumferential direction, it is possible to evenly distribute the impact dispersion points on the annular wall 103.

[0098] In this air supply device 501, connecting walls 105 are provided in multiple directions, both circumferentially and radially, in the suction flow path 25. Furthermore, the connecting walls 105 have a first connecting point 107 that connects to the inner wall or annular wall 103 of the radially outer suction flow path 25, and a second connecting point 109 that connects to the radially inner annular wall 103. Moreover, the first connecting point 107 and the second connecting point 109 are positioned at different locations relative to the circumferential direction of the annular wall 103.

[0099] By arranging the first connection point 107 and the second connection point 109 at different positions relative to the annular wall 103 in the circumferential direction, the radially adjacent connection walls 105, 105 are not radially continuous. Therefore, when an impact is applied to the air supply device 501 from the outside, the impact is dispersed by the annular wall 103, thereby improving impact resistance.

[0100] (Other implementation methods)

[0101] Alternatively, the fan-side end face of the partition member located near the first and second connection points may bulge towards the fan side compared to other fan-side end faces of the partition member. This bulging end face towards the fan side becomes a fulcrum for pressing the hair when using the fan to cut it. Therefore, by making the end faces near the first and second connection points bulge towards the fan side, the fulcrum for cutting hair is closer to the fan, making it easier to cut hair by the rotation of the fan.

[0102] Alternatively, the connecting wall can cut hair that is gathered along the connecting wall. It can also be configured such that the side of the connecting wall opposite to the fan's rotation direction is sharply formed, allowing the fan rotation to cut hair gathered along the connecting wall. This makes hair cutting easier.

[0103] Alternatively, the annular wall can be configured to vary the radial spacing between itself and the components adjacent to it in the radial direction, including the central axis of the fan. The annular wall and connecting wall can, for example, be made of a stretchable elastic material. When the annular wall is positioned radially outward, it elongates to become a large diameter, narrows in width, and widens the spacing between itself and the radially adjacent components. At this time, the connecting wall elongates and narrows in width, widening the spacing between itself and the circumferentially adjacent connecting walls. Therefore, when the annular wall is positioned radially outward, the opening area of ​​the suction flow path increases. On the other hand, when the annular wall is positioned radially inward, it contracts to become a small diameter, widens in width, and narrows the spacing between itself and the radially adjacent components. At this time, the connecting wall contracts and widens in width, narrowing the spacing between itself and the circumferentially adjacent connecting walls. Therefore, when the annular wall is positioned radially inward, the opening area of ​​the suction flow path decreases. The air supply device may also include a variation control unit that controls the radial spacing between the annular wall and the radially adjacent components. In this way, by using the variation control unit to vary the radial spacing between the annular wall and the radially adjacent components, the opening area of ​​the suction flow path can be varied.

[0104] The air supply device can also be equipped with a hair quality detection unit to detect the hair texture. In this way, the hair texture of the hair drawn into the suction flow path can be detected.

[0105] The hair quality detection unit can also be electrically connected to the variation control unit. Based on the hair quality data detected by the hair quality detection unit, the variation control unit determines whether hair is prone to tangling within the suction flow path and controls the radial spacing between the annular wall and adjacent radially positioned components. In this way, the variation control unit can be used to vary the opening area of ​​the suction flow path based on the hair quality.

[0106] The variation control unit can also have a learning function. For example, the variation control unit may have a storage unit that records data such as hair quality, number of hairs, and fan speed when hairs become tangled, and compares this data with past data. Therefore, the variation control unit can predict conditions that make hair prone to tangling, and can further suppress hair tangling.

[0107] Alternatively, the variable control unit can receive and transmit data to external devices. In this way, by sending data to external devices, the data of the air supply unit can be reflected in other devices, and by receiving data from external devices, new data can be reflected in the air supply unit.

[0108] (Postscript)

[0109] Based on the description of the above embodiments, the following technology is disclosed.

[0110] (Technology 1) An air supply device comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; an inlet flow path disposed inside the housing for air intake from the inlet to flow; a fan disposed inside the housing for intake of air from the inlet and exhaust of air from the outlet; a filter disposed at the inlet; and a partition wall member disposed inside the inlet flow path and disposed between the filter and the fan, the partition wall member having a partition wall portion such that the opening ratio of the inlet flow path relative to the opening area is 40% to 80%.

[0111] According to this structure, the flow resistance based on the partition wall member can be suppressed, the decrease in airflow in the intake flow path can be suppressed, and the decrease in air volume can be minimized. Furthermore, thanks to the partition wall member, even if hair comes into contact with the fan, the hair will not twist, thus fully utilizing hair entanglement suppression performance. Therefore, in such an air supply device, the decrease in air volume can be minimized, and hair entanglement suppression performance can be fully utilized.

[0112] (Technology 2) In the air supply device described in Technology 1, the partition wall portion increases the opening ratio of the intake flow path relative to the opening area from the central axis of the fan toward the radially outward.

[0113] According to this structure, the opening area of ​​the partition wall member is smaller on the radially inner side of the suction flow path, thus making it difficult for hair to be sucked in and suppressing hair entanglement. On the radially outer side of the suction flow path, the opening area of ​​the partition wall member is larger, thus reducing the flow resistance based on the partition wall member and suppressing the decrease in airflow caused by the partition wall member.

[0114] (Technology 3) In the air supply device described in Technology 1 or Technology 2, the partition wall portion has: an annular wall, which is disposed between the central axis of the fan in the radial direction and the inner wall of the suction flow path and is formed in an annular shape; and a connecting wall, which connects the annular wall and the inner wall of the suction flow path.

[0115] According to this structure, the annular wall restricts the radial movement of the hair in the suction flow path when it comes into contact with the fan after passing through the partition wall member, thus suppressing entanglement caused by the twisting of multiple hairs. The connecting wall restricts the circumferential movement of the hair in the suction flow path when it comes into contact with the fan after passing through the partition wall member, thus suppressing entanglement caused by the twisting of multiple hairs. Therefore, hair entanglement can be suppressed more effectively by using a partition wall portion having both an annular wall and a connecting wall.

[0116] (Technology 4) In the air supply device described in Technology 3, a plurality of connecting walls are provided in the circumferential and radial directions of the suction flow path, and the circumferential spacing of the plurality of connecting walls located on the radially outer side is set to be wider than the circumferential spacing of the plurality of connecting walls located on the radially inner side.

[0117] According to this structure, the opening ratio of the suction flow path can be easily adjusted by adjusting the circumferential spacing of the connecting walls.

[0118] (Technology 5) In the air supply device described in Technology 3 or Technology 4, the radial spacing between the annular wall and the member adjacent to the annular wall in the radial direction, including the central axis of the fan, is set to be wider at the radially outer side of the annular wall than at the radially inner side of the annular wall.

[0119] According to this structure, the opening ratio of the suction flow path can be easily adjusted by adjusting the radial spacing of the annular walls.

[0120] (Technology 6) In the air supply device described in any of the technologies 3 to 5, the connecting wall has a first connecting point connected to the inner wall of the suction flow path located radially outward or the annular wall, and a second connecting point connected to the annular wall located radially inward, the first connecting point being arranged on the opposite side of the rotation direction of the fan relative to a straight line passing through the central axis of the fan and the second connecting point.

[0121] According to this structure, by positioning the first connecting point on the opposite side of the fan's rotation direction, the radially outer side of the connecting wall becomes inclined relative to the fan's rotation direction. Hair that has passed through the fan and entered the inner part of the suction flow path converges along the inclination of the connecting wall to the second connecting point, which is located radially inner and has a greater fan rotational force, due to the fan's rotation. Therefore, the hair that converges at the second connecting point can be easily cut by the fan's rotation.

[0122] (Technology 7) In the air supply device described in Technology 6, the partition wall member is provided with an extension that extends toward the fan from near the second connection point.

[0123] According to this structure, the fulcrum for cutting hair is based on the protrusion and close to the fan, making it easier to cut hair by rotating the fan.

[0124] (Technology 8) In the air supply device described in any of the technologies 3 to 7, the connecting wall is provided with a plurality of connections in the circumferential and radial directions of the suction flow path, having a first connecting point connected to the inner wall of the suction flow path or the annular wall located on the radially outer side, and a second connecting point connected to the annular wall located on the radially inner side, wherein the first connecting point and the second connecting point are arranged at different positions relative to the circumferential direction of the annular wall.

[0125] According to this structure, by arranging the first and second connecting points at different positions relative to the annular wall circumferentially, the connecting walls that are radially adjacent are not radially continuous. Therefore, when an impact is applied to the air supply device from the outside, the impact is dispersed by the annular wall, thereby improving impact resistance.

[0126] (Technology 9) In the air supply device described in Technology 6, the connecting wall has a curvature that faces in the opposite direction to the rotation direction of the fan.

[0127] This structure makes it easier to use a fan to cut hair.

[0128] (Technology 10) In the air supply device described in any of the technologies 3 to 9, the connecting wall has a first connecting point connected to the inner wall of the suction flow path or the annular wall located radially outward, and a second connecting point connected to the annular wall located radially inward, wherein the fan-side end face of the partition wall member located near the first connecting point and the second connecting point bulges toward the fan side compared to the other end faces of the fan side of the partition wall member.

[0129] According to this structure, the end face that bulges towards the fan side becomes the fulcrum for pressing the hair when cutting it with the fan. Therefore, by making the end faces near the first and second connection points bulge towards the fan side, the fulcrum for cutting hair is closer to the fan, and the hair can be cut more easily by the rotation of the fan.

[0130] (Technology 11) In the air supply device described in any of the technologies 3 to 10, the connecting wall is capable of cutting hair that is gathered along the connecting wall.

[0131] Based on this structure, hair can be cut using the connecting walls, making hair cutting easier.

[0132] (Technology 12) In the air supply device described in any of the technologies 3 to 11, the annular wall is configured to allow the radial spacing between the annular wall and a component adjacent to the annular wall in the radial direction, including the central axis of the fan, to vary, and the air supply device includes a variation control unit that controls the radial spacing between the annular wall and the component adjacent to the annular wall in the radial direction.

[0133] According to this structure, by using the variation control unit to vary the radial spacing between the annular wall and the radially adjacent components, the opening area of ​​the suction flow path can be varied.

[0134] (Technology 13) The air supply device described in any of the technologies 1 to 12 includes a hair quality detection unit for detecting the hair quality of hair.

[0135] Based on this structure, the hair quality of the inhaled hair can be detected.

[0136] (Technology 14) In the air supply device described in Technology 12, a hair quality detection unit is provided to detect the hair quality of hair. The hair quality detection unit is electrically connected to the variation control unit. The variation control unit determines whether hair is easily entangled in the suction flow path based on the hair quality data detected by the hair quality detection unit, and controls the radial spacing between the annular wall and the radially adjacent member.

[0137] According to this structure, the opening area of ​​the suction flow path can be varied based on the hair quality using a variation control unit.

[0138] (Technology 15) In the air supply device described in Technology 12, the variation control unit has a learning function.

[0139] Based on this structure, the conditions under which hair is prone to tangling can be predicted by the variation control unit, and the tangling of hair can be further suppressed.

[0140] (Technology 16) In the air supply device described in Technology 12, the variable control unit is capable of receiving and transmitting data with the outside.

[0141] According to this structure, by sending data to the outside, data from the air supply device can be reflected in other devices, and by receiving data from the outside, new data can be reflected in the air supply device.

[0142] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are used to illustrate the technology in this disclosure, and therefore various changes, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0143] For example, the center of the annular wall can be positioned at the same location as the central axis of the fan, but it is not limited to this; the center of the annular wall can also be positioned off-center from the central axis of the fan.

[0144] In addition, the connecting wall, which is tilted relative to the rotation direction of the fan, is tilted in a curved manner, but is not limited to this. It can also be tilted in a manner that connects the first connecting point and the second connecting point in a straight line.

[0145] Furthermore, the connecting walls with different circumferential positions of the first and second connecting points relative to the annular wall are inclined relative to the rotation direction of the fan, but this is not a limitation. For example, even connecting walls that extend radially from the central axis of the fan, as in the third and fourth embodiments, may have their first and second connecting points, which are adjacent in the radial direction, different in the circumferential direction of the annular wall.

[0146] In addition, the shape of the partition wall is not limited to the shape described above; for example, it can be any shape such as a honeycomb shape.

[0147] Industrial availability

[0148] This disclosure can be applied to devices that pose a risk of hair entanglement due to the intake of air. Specifically, this disclosure can be applied to hair dryers, fans, vacuum cleaners, etc.

[0149] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0150] 1. Air supply device; 3. Housing; 5. Fan; 7. Filter; 9. Partition wall component; 21. Inlet; 23. Outlet; 25. Inlet flow path; 43. Partition wall section; 101. Air supply device; 103. Annular wall; 105. Connecting wall; 107. First connecting point; 109. Second connecting point; 201. Air supply device; 301. Air supply device; 401. Air supply device; 403. Extension; 501. Air supply device; A. Rotation direction; L. Straight line.

Claims

1. An air supply device, wherein, The air supply device has the following features: The casing has an intake port and an exhaust port; An intake flow path is provided inside the housing for the flow of air drawn in from the intake port; A fan, located inside the housing, draws in air through the intake port and discharges air through the exhaust port; A filter is disposed at the inlet; as well as A partition wall component is disposed inside the suction flow path and positioned between the filter and the fan. The partition wall member has a partition wall portion that gives the suction flow path an opening ratio of 40% to 80% relative to the opening area.

2. The air supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The partition wall increases the opening ratio of the intake flow path relative to the opening area from the central axis of the fan toward the radially outward.

3. The air supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The partition wall portion has: an annular wall, which is disposed in a radial direction between the central axis of the fan and the inner wall of the suction flow path and is formed in an annular shape; and a connecting wall, which connects the annular wall and the inner wall of the suction flow path.

4. The air supply device according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting wall is provided with multiple components in the circumferential and radial directions of the suction flow path. The circumferential spacing of the plurality of connecting walls located on the radially outer side is set to be wider than the circumferential spacing of the plurality of connecting walls located on the radially inner side.

5. The air supply device according to claim 3, wherein, With respect to the radial spacing between the annular wall and the components adjacent to the annular wall in the radial direction, including the central axis of the fan, the spacing at the radially outer side of the annular wall is set wider than the spacing at the radially inner side of the annular wall.

6. The air supply device according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting wall has a first connecting point that connects to the inner wall of the suction flow path located radially outward or the annular wall, and a second connecting point that connects to the annular wall located radially inward. The first connection point is positioned on the opposite side of the fan's rotation direction relative to the straight line passing through the fan's central axis and the second connection point.

7. The air supply device according to claim 6, wherein, The partition wall member is provided with an extension that extends toward the fan from near the second connection point.

8. The air supply device according to claim 3, wherein, The connecting wall is provided with multiple such walls in the circumferential and radial directions of the suction flow path, having a first connecting point that connects to the inner wall of the suction flow path or the annular wall located on the radially outer side, and a second connecting point that connects to the annular wall located on the radially inner side. The first connection point and the second connection point are arranged at different positions relative to the circumferential direction of the annular wall.

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