Air treatment device of air conditioner and air conditioner

Abstract

The utility model discloses an air treatment device of an air conditioner and the air conditioner. The air treatment device comprises a seat body, a first air inlet and a second air inlet, the humidifying box is arranged on the seat body and is provided with a humidifying cavity and a steam outlet, and the steam outlet is communicated with the humidifying cavity; the water tank is used for introducing liquid into the humidifying cavity; the heating piece is arranged in the humidifying cavity, a part of the heating piece extends to the position below the steam outlet, the heating piece is used for heating liquid in the humidifying cavity to form steam, the air treatment device further comprises an atomization device, the atomization device is arranged in the humidifying cavity and located on one side of the heating piece in the horizontal direction, and the atomization device is used for atomizing the liquid in the humidifying cavity. The atomization device can be used for atomizing liquid in the heating cavity. According to the air treatment device of the air conditioner, the steam humidification function is achieved, residual water in the humidification cavity can be consumed completely by arranging the atomization device, and therefore the situation that the use experience of a user is affected due to the fact that bacteria and peculiar smells are bred in the humidification box due to the residual water is prevented.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of air treatment, in particular to an air treatment device of an air conditioner and the air conditioner. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the related art, an air conditioner with air treatment function usually uses a high-efficiency HEPA filter screen for filtering. On the one hand, the HEPA filter screen needs to be replaced regularly due to the limitation of its own material performance, but users often forget to replace it in actual use, which greatly reduces the air purification effect. On the other hand, the HEPA filter screen has limited ability to kill bacteria and viruses in the air, and is high in cost and inconvenient to replace, which also brings certain economic burden. Therefore, it is valuable to research in the direction of air treatment function of the air conditioner. CONTENT OF THE UTILITY MODEL

[0003] The present application aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, one object of the present application is to provide an air treatment device of an air conditioner, which uses high-temperature steam for humidification, is low in cost and good in user experience.

[0004] The present application also provides an air conditioner.

[0005] According to the air treatment device of the air conditioner of the first aspect of the present application, the air treatment device comprises a seat body, a humidifying box provided on the seat body and having a humidifying cavity and a steam outlet, the steam outlet being in communication with the humidifying cavity, a water tank for supplying liquid into the humidifying cavity, and a heating element provided in the humidifying cavity and having a part extending below the steam outlet, the heating element being used for heating the liquid in the humidifying cavity to form steam. The air treatment device further comprises an atomizing device provided in the humidifying cavity and located on one side of the heating element in the horizontal direction, the atomizing device being used for atomizing the liquid in the humidifying cavity.

[0006] The air treatment device of the air conditioner according to the present application has the function of steam humidification, so that the humidity of indoor air is improved by using steam humidification, and the growth of bacteria can be inhibited during the high-temperature heating process, so that the air can be settled while killing indoor pollutants, which helps to reduce static electricity and dust in the air, thereby realizing precise regulation and control of indoor air quality and improving user experience. Moreover, this humidification method not only has faster humidification speed and better humidification effect, but also does not need to set a filter, so that the maintenance cost in the later period can be reduced, the operation of frequent cleaning can be reduced, and the use experience is further improved.

[0007] In addition, by arranging the atomizing device, the residual water in the humidifying cavity can be consumed, so that the bacteria breeding and peculiar smell caused by the residual water in the humidifying box are prevented, and the user's experience during use is affected.

[0008] In some embodiments, the atomizing device comprises a water absorbing member arranged in the humidifying cavity for absorbing the liquid in the heating cavity; and an atomizing sheet assembly arranged on the water absorbing member, the atomizing sheet assembly being capable of atomizing the water absorbed by the water absorbing member into water mist.

[0009] In some embodiments, a mounting column is arranged in the humidifying cavity, a mounting groove is defined in the middle of the mounting column, the mounting column has a liquid passing opening in communication with the mounting groove, the liquid passing opening extends to the bottom wall of the humidifying cavity, and the atomizing device is mounted in the mounting groove and is sealingly connected with the mounting column.

[0010] In some embodiments, an annular baffle is arranged in the mounting column, the annular baffle is used to divide the mounting groove into a vertically arranged first mounting groove and a second mounting groove, the atomizing sheet assembly is mounted in the first mounting groove, the outer periphery of the second mounting groove has the liquid passing opening, the annular baffle defines a mounting opening, the water absorbing member passes through the mounting opening, and the outer periphery of the water absorbing member abuts against the annular baffle.

[0011] In some embodiments, the air treatment device further comprises a fan having an air outlet air duct and a flow guide outlet, the flow guide outlet is located in the air outlet air duct, the humidifying box has an air inlet, the air inlet is in communication with the flow guide outlet, so that the air in the air outlet air duct enters the humidifying cavity through the air inlet.

[0012] In some embodiments, the atomizing device is located below the air inlet.

[0013] In some embodiments, the fan has a fan outlet, the fan outlet is located at one end of the air outlet air duct, the flow guide outlet is located at the other end of the air outlet air duct, and the fan outlet is in communication with the indoor or outdoor environment.

[0014] In some embodiments, the fan outlet comprises an outdoor exhaust outlet and an indoor circulating air outlet, the outdoor exhaust outlet is in communication with the outdoor environment, the indoor circulating air outlet is in communication with the indoor environment, and a movable shielding member is arranged in the air outlet air duct, the shielding member is used to open one of the outdoor exhaust outlet and the indoor circulating air outlet.

[0015] In some embodiments, the air treatment device further comprises a steam output port, the steam output port is adjacent to the indoor circulating air outlet, and a steam outlet is in communication with the steam output port.

[0016] In some embodiments, the humidifier box includes: a box body defining the humidification chamber; a cover disposed on the box body and detachably connected to the box body, and a heating element disposed on the cover.

[0017] In some embodiments, the housing is provided with a partition for dividing the humidification chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber with an open top. The partition has a communication port connecting the first chamber and the second chamber. The first chamber has a top post that cooperates with a water tank. The cover is provided on the second chamber for sealing the second chamber.

[0018] In some embodiments, the atomizing device is installed in the second chamber.

[0019] In some embodiments, the base defines a mounting cavity, within which the humidifier box is detachably disposed.

[0020] In some embodiments, the device further includes a water level detector disposed on the humidification box, a portion of which extends into the humidification chamber to detect the water level within the humidification chamber, and the water level detector can control the operation of the heating element based on the detected water level.

[0021] In some embodiments, the heating element is adapted to operate when the water level is not lower than the minimum water level controlled by the water level sensor, the atomizing plate assembly is adapted to operate when the water level is lower than the minimum water level controlled by the water level sensor, and the height of the atomizing plate assembly is higher than the minimum water level controlled by the water level sensor.

[0022] An air conditioner according to a second aspect embodiment of this application includes an air handling device for an air conditioner according to a first aspect embodiment of this application. The air conditioner according to this application, by employing the aforementioned air handling device, has a steam humidification function, and by providing an atomizing device, can completely consume residual water in the humidification chamber, thereby preventing bacteria and odors from growing inside the humidification box due to residual water, thus affecting the user's experience.

[0023] In some embodiments, the air conditioner includes a housing, a portion of which forms the base of the air handling unit, and the humidifier box is disposed at the bottom of the air conditioner.

[0024] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of the air handling apparatus according to this application;

[0027] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the air handling apparatus according to this application;

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The center circle shows a magnified view of point A;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the air handling apparatus according to this application;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the humidifier box according to this application;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a top view of the humidifier box according to this application;

[0032] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 Sectional view of the middle BB line;

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 The center circle shows a magnified view of point C;

[0034] Figure 9 This is an exploded view of the humidifier box according to this application;

[0035] Figure 10 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the fan outlet of the air handling apparatus according to this application;

[0036] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Rear view of the structure shown;

[0037] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 Sectional view of the DD line;

[0038] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 A partial sectional view of the structure shown;

[0039] Figure 14 This is a structural schematic diagram of an air conditioner according to this application;

[0040] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the casing of an air conditioner according to this application.

[0041] Figure label:

[0042] Air handling unit 100, air conditioner 200,

[0043] Base 10, mounting cavity 101, steam outlet 102, steam pipe 11, connecting piece 111, exhaust pipe 16

[0044] Humidifier box 20, humidifier chamber 201, first chamber 2011, second chamber 2012, steam outlet 202, air inlet 203, box body 21, partition 211, connecting port 212, top column 213, cover 22.

[0045] Mounting column 23, mounting groove 231, first mounting groove 231a, second mounting groove 231b, liquid outlet 232, annular baffle 233.

[0046] Steam outlet boss 24, exhaust fan boss 25.

[0047] Water tank 30,

[0048] Heating element 40,

[0049] Fan 50, fan inlet 51, air intake outlet 52, fan outlet 53, outdoor exhaust outlet 531, indoor recirculating air outlet 532, shield 54.

[0050] Adapter structure 60, first adapter 61, first adapter channel 611, steam inlet 612, second adapter 62, second adapter channel 621.

[0051] Atomizing device 80, water absorption component 81, atomizing plate assembly 82. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0053] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Furthermore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0054] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0055] An air conditioner 200 according to an embodiment of this application includes an air conditioner body and an air handling unit 100. The air conditioner body is an indoor unit, such as a wall-mounted unit or a floor-standing unit. The air conditioner body typically includes structural components such as a fan wheel and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is used to exchange heat with the gas flowing through it, thereby realizing the cooling or heating function.

[0056] The air handling unit 100 can be used to purify and humidify gases, thereby improving air quality and humidity.

[0057] An air handling device 100 according to an embodiment of this application includes: a base 10, a humidification box 20, a water tank 30, and a heating element 40. The humidification box 20 is disposed on the base 10 and has a humidification chamber 201 and a steam outlet 202. The steam outlet 202 is connected to the humidification chamber 201. The water tank 30 is used to introduce liquid into the humidification chamber 201. The heating element 40 is disposed in the humidification chamber 201 and is used to heat the liquid in the humidification chamber 201 to form steam.

[0058] The base 10 is the base of the entire device, providing support and fixation for other components. The humidification box 20 has a humidification chamber 201 inside, which is used to contain liquid. The water tank 30 is used to store liquid. Liquid can be sent into the humidification chamber by gravity or pump. The heating element 40 heats the liquid in the humidification chamber. The steam outlet 202 is the outlet that connects the humidification chamber to the outside. The heated steam is released into the air through this outlet.

[0059] Specifically, the liquid in the water tank 30 is transported into the humidification chamber 201, and the heating element 40 starts to work, heating the liquid in the humidification chamber. As the liquid is heated, it gradually turns into steam, which is released through the steam outlet 202 and then enters the air, thereby increasing the humidity of the air.

[0060] The air handling unit 100 uses this steam humidification method, enabling the air conditioner 200 to have a steam humidification function. This improves indoor air humidity through steam humidification, while the high-temperature heating process inhibits bacterial growth. In addition to killing indoor pollutants, it also promotes air settling, helping to reduce static electricity and dust in the air. This allows for precise control of indoor air quality and improves the user experience. Moreover, this humidification method not only humidifies faster and more effectively, but also eliminates the need for a filter, thus reducing maintenance costs and frequent cleaning operations, further enhancing the user experience.

[0061] A portion of the heating element 40 extends below the steam outlet 202, ensuring that the liquid is fully heated before being converted into steam. This also allows the steam generated by the heating element 40 to be directly discharged through the steam outlet 202, thus ensuring the steam temperature and discharge rate to a certain extent.

[0062] Furthermore, when the water in the water tank 30 is depleted and the water level in the humidifier box 20 drops to the minimum level, the heating element 40 will stop working. At this time, some liquid water will remain in the humidifier chamber 201. If the steam humidification function is not used for a long time after the machine is turned off, the water in the humidifier chamber 201 will remain for a long time, which will breed bacteria and produce odors. When the steam humidification function is used again, the water remaining in the humidifier chamber 201 will mix with the fresh water again, and the odor of the residual water will quickly enter the room with the water vapor, which will also bring a very bad experience to the user.

[0063] Therefore, this application proposes a solution in which the air handling device 100 further includes an atomizing device 80, which is disposed in the humidification chamber 201 and located on one side of the heating element 40 in the horizontal direction. The atomizing device 80 can be used to atomize the liquid in the humidification chamber.

[0064] That is, an atomizing device 80, such as an ultrasonic humidification structure, is added inside the humidification box 20. After the heating element 40 stops working, even if there is residual water in the humidification box 20, the atomizing device 80 is turned on to consume the residual water in the humidification chamber 201, thereby preventing bacteria and odors from growing inside the humidification box 20 due to residual water, which would affect the user's experience.

[0065] Moreover, the humidifier box 20 does not require an external drain pump, which can reduce costs and avoid the noise caused by the operation of a drain pump, further improving the user experience.

[0066] In some embodiments of this application, the humidifier box 20 is detachably mounted on the base 10. When the humidifier box 20 is disassembled, if drainage is carried out by means of a drain pump, the drain pipe needs to be disassembled, which is inconvenient. In this application, an atomizing device 80 is installed inside the humidifier box 20, which does not require connecting pipes. When the humidifier box 20 is disassembled, the atomizing device 80 can be taken out at the same time, so that the atomizing device 80 can also be cleaned, replaced and repaired.

[0067] like Figures 7-9 As shown, in some embodiments, the atomizing device 80 includes: a water-absorbing element 81 and an atomizing plate assembly 82. The water-absorbing element 81 is disposed in the humidification chamber 201 and is used to absorb the liquid in the humidification chamber 201. The atomizing plate assembly 82 is disposed on the water-absorbing element 81 and can generate water mist from the water absorbed by the water-absorbing element 81.

[0068] The atomizing plate assembly 82 can be an ultrasonic atomizing plate, which uses the principle of ultrasound to turn water into tiny water droplets, thereby producing a mist. Specifically, it uses high-frequency electronic oscillation (for example, an oscillation frequency of 1.7MHz or 2.4MHz, which is beyond the range of human hearing and will not cause harm to humans or animals) to make the ultrasonic atomizing plate generate high-frequency resonance, breaking down the liquid water molecule structure and thus producing a naturally drifting water mist without the need for heating or adding any chemical reagents.

[0069] The atomizing plate assembly 82 is installed at a height higher than the minimum water level controlled by the water level detector, i.e., higher than the water level when the atomizing plate assembly 82 starts working, so as to ensure that the generated atomized steam can be discharged smoothly. When the heating element 40 stops working, the atomizing plate assembly 82 starts, and the water absorption element 81 capills the water remaining in the humidification chamber 201 to the bottom of the atomizing plate assembly 82. Then, the atomizing plate assembly 82 uses electronic high-frequency oscillation to generate water mist, which is then discharged from the steam outlet.

[0070] In addition, after the fan introduces airflow into the humidification chamber 201, the generated water mist can be discharged more quickly, improving the efficiency of residual water treatment, until the residual water in the humidification chamber 201 is consumed and the atomizing device 80 stops working.

[0071] like Figures 5-9As shown, in some embodiments, a mounting post 23 is provided in the humidification chamber 201. The middle part of the mounting post 23 defines a mounting groove 231. The mounting post 23 has a liquid outlet 232, which communicates with the mounting groove 231 and extends to the bottom wall of the humidification chamber 201. The atomizing device 80 is installed in the mounting groove 231 and is sealed to the mounting post 23, thereby realizing the installation of the atomizing device 80 in the humidification chamber 201. Moreover, the mounting groove 231 is connected to the humidification chamber 201 through the liquid outlet 232, and the water-absorbing component 81 can absorb the water in the humidification chamber 201 in time and guide the residual water to the atomizing plate assembly 82 for atomization.

[0072] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the mounting column 23 is provided with an annular baffle 233, which is used to divide the mounting groove 231 into a first mounting groove 231a and a second mounting groove 231b arranged vertically. The atomizing plate assembly 82 is installed in the first mounting groove 231a, and the atomizing plate assembly 82 is sealed to the mounting column 23 by a sealing member. The outer periphery of the second mounting groove 231b has a liquid outlet 232, and the annular baffle 233 defines an installation port. The water suction member 81 passes through the installation port, and the outer periphery of the water suction member 81 abuts against the annular baffle 233, thereby fixing the water suction member 81 in the mounting groove 231. The atomizing plate assembly 82 is installed in the first mounting groove 231a, which is convenient for installation and allows the atomizing plate assembly 82 to be fixed at a certain height. The installation height of the atomizing plate assembly 82 is higher than the minimum water level controlled by the water level detector to ensure that the generated atomized steam can be discharged smoothly.

[0073] When using the steam humidification function, the heating element 40 is turned on. If the high-temperature steam only diffuses freely into the external environment, the amount of steam output is limited, which affects the humidification effect. In particular, some humidification boxes 20 output to the external environment through the steam pipe 11. However, it takes a long time for the steam pipe 11 to be filled by free diffusion alone, which affects the user experience. Moreover, it can cause the airflow channels inside the humidification box 20 and water tank 30 to overheat, accelerate the heat deformation and aging of the components, and affect the service life of the device. In addition, the long-term free diffusion will also make it difficult for the generated steam to be discharged, which can easily lead to condensation and backflow, greatly reducing the amount of steam delivered to the outside.

[0074] Among them, the steam transmission pipe 11 is made of a material with certain heat insulation function to reduce the amount of cooling during steam transmission and to deliver more hot steam into the room to a greater extent.

[0075] like Figures 1-4 As shown, in some embodiments, the air handling device 100 further includes a fan 50 having an air outlet duct.

[0076] In some examples, the fan 50 has an outlet 52 located in the air outlet duct, and the humidification box 20 has an air inlet 203 connected to the humidification chamber 201 and the outlet 52, so that the air from the air outlet duct enters the humidification chamber 201 through the air inlet 203. For example, the air inlet 203 is connected to the outlet 52 through the air inlet duct 16. The fan 50 can guide the air entering from the fan inlet 51 into the humidification chamber 201 through the air inlet 203 and the air inlet duct 16.

[0077] Therefore, by setting an outlet 52 on the fan 50, the fan 50 is used to blow air into the humidification chamber 201 with a separate airflow branch input, so that the high-temperature steam can be discharged from the humidification chamber 201 more quickly; in addition, when the steam humidification function is not used, the humidification chamber 201 can be dried to prevent bacterial growth.

[0078] In addition, by introducing an airflow branch, the rate of water mist discharge can be accelerated when the atomizing device 80 is working, and the moisture adhering to the inner wall of the humidifying box 20 can be dried more quickly, preventing bacterial growth.

[0079] The air outlet duct has a fan outlet 53, which can be connected to the indoor or outdoor environment to discharge the air accelerated by the fan 50 to the indoor or outdoor environment.

[0080] The air handling unit 100 of the air conditioner 200 usually has the function of introducing fresh air, that is, it has a fresh air fan. The air handling unit 100 can also have the function of exhausting indoor stale air, that is, it has an exhaust fan. The fan 50 here can be an exhaust fan, a fresh air fan, or a separate fan.

[0081] In other words, without adding an additional airflow drive device, the fresh air fan in the existing air conditioner 200 is used to quickly discharge steam, accelerate the steam ejection rate and the amount of mixing with the indoor circulating air, and the humidification rate is faster; on the other hand, the airflow introduced from the fan 50 can dry the humidification chamber 201, reduce bacterial growth, and maintain a relatively clean steam generation environment.

[0082] In some specific examples, the air handling unit 100 has an exhaust fan and a fresh air fan, which are axially aligned and arranged side by side. The two fans can be driven by a single motor to rotate two impellers. The air outlet 52 can be located on the exhaust fan's air duct. By utilizing the exhaust fan for air diversion, the fresh air volume will not be affected, ensuring the user's experience.

[0083] In some embodiments, the atomizing device 80 is located below the air inlet 203, so that the airflow entering the humidification chamber 201 through the air inlet 203 can directly flow through the atomizing device 80, thereby carrying away the water mist generated by the atomizing device 80, accelerating the water mist discharge rate, and drying the moisture attached to the inner wall of the humidification box 20 more quickly, preventing bacterial growth.

[0084] like Figure 4 , Figures 10-13 As shown, in some embodiments, the fan 50 has a fan outlet 53, which is located at one end of the air outlet duct, and the inlet outlet 52 is located at the other end of the air outlet duct. The fan outlet 53 can be connected to the indoor or outdoor environment. That is, the inlet outlet 52 and the fan outlet 53 can be located at both ends of the air outlet duct. Thus, the airflow accelerated by the fan 50 can be partly blown into the humidification chamber 201 through the inlet outlet 52, and the other part can be discharged through the fan outlet 53. That is, the fan 50 can simultaneously accelerate the discharge of steam and discharge the accelerated airflow through the fan outlet 53, making full use of the fan 50 in the air conditioner 200, without the need to set up an additional fan 50 to blow air into the humidification chamber 201.

[0085] According to the air handling device 100 of this application embodiment, a branch is drawn from the air outlet duct of the fan 50 to blow part of the airflow into the humidification box 20. On the one hand, the generated steam can be discharged quickly, reducing the residence time of steam in the humidification chamber 201, avoiding excessive temperature rise in the humidification chamber 201 and deformation of the component structure, allowing the steam to be discharged more quickly through the steam pipe 11, reducing the amount of steam condensation, and increasing the amount of steam discharged. On the other hand, when the steam humidification function is not used for a long time, the airflow blown into the humidification box 20 can be used to dry the humidification chamber 201, preventing the growth of bacteria in the humidification chamber 201, and creating a clean environment for the next use of the steam generation function.

[0086] In some embodiments, the fan 50 is provided with a movable baffle (not shown in the figure) located in the air outlet duct. The movable baffle can switch between opening and closing the air outlet 52. For example, the movable baffle is rotatably connected to the fan housing. By rotating the movable baffle, the air outlet 52 can be opened, allowing some airflow in the air outlet duct to pass through the air duct 16 and the air inlet 203 into the humidifier box 20. By rotating the movable baffle, the air outlet 52 can be closed, and the airflow in the air outlet duct will not enter the humidifier box 20.

[0087] like Figures 10-13As shown, in some embodiments, the fan outlet 53 includes an outdoor exhaust vent 531 and an indoor recirculation vent 532. The outdoor exhaust vent 531 is connected to the outside, and the indoor recirculation vent 532 is connected to the inside. A movable shielding member 54 is provided in the air outlet duct. The shielding member 54 is used to open one of the outdoor exhaust vent 531 and the indoor recirculation vent 532. That is, the shielding member 54 can shield the outdoor exhaust vent 531 and open the indoor recirculation vent 532, or the shielding member 54 can shield the indoor recirculation vent 532 and open the outdoor exhaust vent 531.

[0088] For example, when the heating element 40 is working, the movable baffle moves to the position of opening the drain outlet 52, and the shielding element 54 moves to the position of shielding the outdoor exhaust vent 531. At this time, the indoor circulating air vent 532 is opened, and part of the air in the exhaust duct is introduced into the humidification box 20, which increases the speed of steam discharge and improves the steam humidification effect.

[0089] For example, after the heating element 40 stops working, the atomizing device 80 is turned on to consume the remaining water in the water humidification chamber 201. At the same time, the shielding part 54 in the air outlet duct moves to the position of shielding the outdoor exhaust vent 531. At this time, the indoor circulation vent 532 is opened, and part of the air in the air outlet duct is introduced into the humidification box 20 to dry the water adhering to the inner wall and prevent bacteria from growing.

[0090] like Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the air handling device 100 also has a steam outlet 102 for outputting steam, and a steam outlet 202 is connected to the steam outlet 102, for example, through a steam pipe 11, so that the steam generated after being heated by the heating element 40 can be discharged into the room through the steam outlet 202 and the steam outlet 102.

[0091] In some embodiments, the steam outlet 102 is adjacent to the indoor recirculation vent 532 and is located above the indoor recirculation vent 532, thereby utilizing the negative pressure formed by the airflow of the fan 50 at the steam outlet 102 to quickly draw steam out of the steam pipe 11.

[0092] In some specific examples, when the fan 50 is running, a portion of the airflow enters the humidification box 20 through the exhaust pipe 16, blowing the high-temperature water vapor generated in the humidification box 20 into the steam supply pipe 11. When the user does not require humidification and does not activate the steam humidification function for a long time (e.g., the water tank has not been replenished for more than t1 time, t1 can be 48h), the movable baffle moves to the position of opening the exhaust outlet 52, the shield 54 moves to the position of blocking the outdoor exhaust vent 531, and the indoor circulation vent 532 opens, introducing a portion of the airflow into the humidification box 20, accelerating the evaporation of water vapor adhering to the inner wall of the humidification box 20, keeping its interior dry. After a certain period of time, such as 1 hour, the movable baffle moves to the position of closing the exhaust outlet 52, stopping the blowing of air into the humidification box 20.

[0093] like Figures 10-13 As shown, in some embodiments, a transition structure 60 is provided at the fan outlet 53. The transition structure 60 includes a first transition member 61 and a second transition member 62. The first transition member 61 defines a first transition channel 611, which has a steam inlet 612 communicating with the steam outlet 202. The second transition member 62 defines a second transition channel 621, one side of which communicates with the first transition channel 611, and the other side of which communicates with the steam outlet 102. The maximum cross-sectional dimension of the first transition channel 611 is larger than that of the second transition channel 621 along the direction close to the steam outlet 102. As a result, the high-temperature steam entering the transition structure 60 flows through a cross-section that narrows, increasing the steam velocity and thus increasing the steam injection distance.

[0094] In addition, the high-speed airflow at the indoor circulating air vent 532 will create a negative pressure zone in the area before the outlet. Due to the pressure difference, the atmospheric pressure will push the surrounding air towards the outlet area, thereby driving high-temperature water vapor to be discharged quickly from the steam outlet 102. At this time, it is equivalent to drawing steam from the steam pipe 11, which greatly reduces the residence time of steam in the steam pipe 11.

[0095] In some embodiments, the first adapter 61 is a circular tube, and the second adapter 62 is a flat tube located on the radially upward side of the circular tube. The flat tube is connected to the circular tube, and the thickness of the flat tube is less than the diameter of the circular tube, which facilitates the formation of a variable cross-section structure and also facilitates the manufacturing and forming of the adapter structure 60.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first transfer channel 611 extends gradually upward in a direction away from the steam inlet 612, thereby facilitating the return of condensate formed at the steam outlet 102. This allows the condensate generated in the transfer structure 60 to flow towards the steam inlet 612, and then along the steam pipe 11 to the humidification box 20. The condensate can be reheated to form steam, while preventing water spraying at the outlet.

[0097] In some embodiments, the steam outlet 202 and the steam output port 102 are connected through the steam transmission pipe 11. The steam transmission pipe 11 is detachably connected to the humidifier box 20 and the fan 50, thereby enabling the humidifier box 20 and the steam transmission pipe 11 to be disassembled from the air conditioner 200 for easy cleaning and maintenance.

[0098] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, one end of the steam pipe 11 is provided with a connecting piece 111, and the humidification box 20 is provided with a steam outlet boss 24. The steam outlet boss 24 defines the steam outlet 202. The connecting piece 111 can be inserted into the steam outlet boss 24, and the outer periphery of the connecting piece 111 is sealed with the steam outlet boss 24, thereby improving the sealing performance at the connection between the steam pipe 11 and the humidification box 20 and reducing the probability of steam leakage.

[0099] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the air inlet 203 and the air outlet 52 are connected by the air duct 16, the air duct 16 is detachably connected to the humidifier box 20, and the air duct 16 is detachably connected to the fan 50, thereby enabling the humidifier box 20 and the air duct 16 to be disassembled on the air conditioner 200 for easy cleaning and maintenance.

[0100] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the humidifier box 20 is provided with an air-guiding protrusion 25, which defines an air-guiding port 203. The air-guiding pipe 16 is inserted into the air-guiding protrusion 25, which makes installation convenient and facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the humidifier box 20.

[0101] Specifically, when it is necessary to disassemble the humidifier box 20, first disconnect the steam supply pipe 11 and the air intake pipe 16 from the humidifier box 20 to prevent the steam supply pipe 11 and the air intake pipe 16 from directly connecting to the humidifier box 20 and obstructing the pulling action.

[0102] like Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the humidifier box 20 includes: a box body 21 and a cover 22. The box body 21 defines a humidification chamber 201. The cover 22 is disposed on the box body 21 and is detachably connected to the box body 21. The heating element 40 is disposed on the cover 22. The heating element 40 can be separated from the box body 21 along with the cover 22, thereby facilitating both cleaning of the box body 21 and cleaning of the heating element 40.

[0103] For example, the heating element 40 can be fixed to the cover 22 of the humidifier box 20 by screws, and the user can directly and manually clean the scale on the surface of the heating element 40 by lifting the cover 22.

[0104] The heating element 40 is mounted on the top, which can effectively prevent air or water leakage caused by poor sealing or aging of the sealing ring when the heating element 40 is mounted on the bottom.

[0105] like Figure 1 As shown, the humidifier box 20 and the water tank 30 are located in front of the fan 50, with the water tank 30 located above the humidifier box 20, thus making full use of the space in front of the fan 50.

[0106] The cover 22 is equipped with a heating element 40 and a water level detector. A sealing strip is provided between the cover 22 and the box 21. The cover 22 and the box 21 can be fixed by a snap fastener for easy disassembly. At the same time, the cover is equipped with a steam outlet 202 and an air inlet 203. The steam outlet 202 is connected to the steam pipe 11, and the other end of the steam pipe 11 is connected to the steam outlet 102.

[0107] The air inlet 203 is connected to the air outlet 52 of the fan 50 through the air duct 16. When the fan 50 is running, part of the airflow enters the humidification chamber 201 through the air duct 16, and blows the high-temperature water vapor generated in the humidification chamber 201 into the steam delivery pipe 11.

[0108] like Figure 9 As shown, in some examples, the housing 21 is provided with a partition 211 to divide the humidification chamber 201 into a first chamber 2011 and a second chamber 2012 with the top open. The partition 211 has a connecting opening 212 that can connect the first chamber 2011 and the second chamber 2012. The cover 22 is provided on the second chamber 2012 to seal the second chamber 2012. It should be noted that the length of the second chamber 2012 is greater than the maximum length of the heating element 40 so that the heating element 40 can be placed inside the second chamber 2012 when the cover 22 covers the second chamber 2012.

[0109] The first chamber 2011 has a top column 213 that cooperates with the water tank 30. The top column 213 is used to open the water outlet valve at the bottom of the water tank 30, so that the water in the water tank 30 flows into the first chamber 2011. The first chamber 2011 and the second chamber 2012 are interconnected, and the water in the water tank 30 can flow into the second chamber 2012.

[0110] Specifically, the top column 213 contacts the water outlet valve at the bottom of the water tank 30, and the water inside the water tank 30 flows into the humidification box 20. When the water in the humidification box 20 is submerged by the water outlet valve, the water tank 30 and the humidification box 20 form a communicating vessel. At this time, the water level in the humidification box 20 will not change and will always remain submerged by the water outlet valve. When the water in the humidification box 20 is heated by the heating element to generate high-temperature water vapor, the water in the humidification box 20 is consumed, and the water tank 30 simultaneously replenishes water to the humidification box 20 to maintain a constant water level in the humidification box 20.

[0111] like Figures 5-9 As shown, in some embodiments, the atomizing device 80 is installed in the second chamber 2012, thereby the atomizing device 80 can be adjacent to the heating element 40 and the steam outlet 202, and the water mist formed by the atomizing device 80 can be discharged in time through the steam outlet 202.

[0112] like Figures 1-9 As shown, in some embodiments, the humidifier box 20 is detachably connected to the base 10. The base 10 defines an installation cavity 101, and the humidifier box 20 is detachably disposed in the installation cavity 101. For example, a limiting structure is provided on the base 10, which can be a snap-fit, slot, guide rail, etc. This enables the humidifier box 20 to be detachable. After the humidifier box 20 is disassembled, the inside of the humidifier box 20 and the heating element 40 can be cleaned. This solves the pain point that the traditional heating element is sealed inside the humidification cavity, making disassembly inconvenient and unable to be thoroughly cleaned. Users can more intuitively observe and handle the dirt on the heating element 40.

[0113] In some embodiments, the air handling device 100 further includes a water level detector, which is disposed on the humidification box 20. A portion of the water level detector extends into the humidification chamber 201 to detect the water level in the humidification chamber 201. The water level detector can control the operation of the heating element 40 according to the detected water level. By setting the water level detector, the heating element 40 is prevented from being damaged due to prolonged dry burning.

[0114] The water level detector can be made up of two electrode rods, one long and one short. The two electrode rods form an electrical path in the humidification chamber 201, thereby realizing the monitoring of the water level.

[0115] In some embodiments, the heating element 40 is adapted to operate when the water level is not lower than the minimum water level controlled by the water level detector, the atomizing plate assembly 82 is adapted to operate when the water level is lower than the minimum water level controlled by the water level detector, and the height of the atomizing plate assembly 82 is higher than the minimum water level controlled by the water level detector.

[0116] The water level detector is used to detect the water level in the water tank. After the water in the water tank 30 is consumed, the heating element 40 continues to work and consume water. When the water level in the humidification chamber 201 is lower than the lowest position of the water level detector, the power supply to the heating element 40 is cut off to prevent the heating element 40 from burning dry and causing safety hazards.

[0117] The air conditioner 200 according to an embodiment of this application includes an air handling unit 100 according to the embodiment of the air conditioner 200. By employing the air handling unit 100, the air conditioner 200 has a steam humidification function. Steam humidification improves the humidity of indoor air, and the high-temperature heating process can inhibit bacterial growth. While killing indoor pollutants, it can also achieve air settling, which helps reduce static electricity and dust in the air. This achieves precise control of indoor air quality and improves the user experience. Moreover, this humidification method not only has a faster humidification speed and better humidification effect, but also eliminates the need for a filter. Therefore, it can reduce the later maintenance cost, reduce the frequency of cleaning operations, and further improve the user experience.

[0118] In some embodiments, the air conditioner 200 includes a housing, a portion of which forms the base 10 of the air handling unit 100. A humidifier box 20 is disposed at the bottom of the air conditioner 200, and a water tank 30 may also be disposed at the bottom of the air conditioner 200, thereby facilitating the disassembly and installation of the humidifier box 20 and the water tank 30.

[0119] like Figure 1 As shown, the humidifier box 20 and the water tank 30 are located in front of the fan 50, with the water tank 30 located above the humidifier box 20, thus making full use of the space inside the casing and improving the compactness of the structure.

[0120] Other configurations and operations of the air conditioner according to the embodiments of this application are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here. The vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions are defined as shown in the figures.

[0121] In the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature.

[0122] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0123] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An air handling unit (100) for an air conditioner, characterized in that, include: base(10); Humidifier box (20), the humidifier box (20) is disposed on the base (10) and has a humidifier cavity (201) and a steam outlet (202), the steam outlet (202) being connected to the humidifier cavity (201); A water tank (30) is used to introduce liquid into the humidification chamber (201); A heating element (40) is disposed within the humidification chamber (201), and a portion of the heating element (40) extends below the steam outlet (202). The heating element (40) is used to heat the liquid within the humidification chamber (201) to generate steam. The air handling device (100) further includes an atomizing device (80), which is located in the humidification chamber (201) and on one side of the heating element (40) in the horizontal direction. The atomizing device (80) can be used to atomize the liquid in the humidification chamber.

2. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The atomizing device (80) includes: A water-absorbing component (81) is disposed inside the humidification chamber (201) and is used to absorb the liquid inside the humidification chamber; Atomizing plate assembly (82) is disposed on the water-absorbing member (81) and can generate water mist from the water absorbed by the water-absorbing member.

3. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The humidification chamber (201) is provided with a mounting column (23), the middle part of which defines a mounting groove (231). The mounting column (23) has a liquid outlet (232) communicating with the mounting groove (231). The liquid outlet (232) extends to the bottom wall of the humidification chamber (201). The atomizing device (80) is installed in the mounting groove (231) and is sealed to the mounting column (23).

4. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The mounting column (23) is provided with an annular baffle (233), which is used to divide the mounting groove (231) into a first mounting groove (231a) and a second mounting groove (231b) arranged vertically. The atomizing plate assembly (82) is installed in the first mounting groove (231a). The outer periphery of the second mounting groove (231b) has the liquid outlet (232). The annular baffle (233) defines an installation opening. The water suction member (81) passes through the installation opening and the outer periphery of the water suction member (81) abuts against the annular baffle (233).

5. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air handling unit (100) further includes a fan (50) having an air outlet duct and an air intake outlet (52), the air intake outlet (52) being located in the air outlet duct. The humidifier box (20) has an air inlet (203) which is connected to the air outlet (52) so that the air from the air outlet duct enters the humidifier chamber (201) through the air inlet (203).

6. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The atomizing device (80) is located below the air inlet (203).

7. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 5, characterized in that, The fan (50) has a fan outlet (53), which is located at one end of the air outlet duct, and the drainage outlet (52) is located at the other end of the air outlet duct. The fan outlet (53) can be connected to the indoor or outdoor environment.

8. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 7, characterized in that, The fan outlet (53) includes an outdoor exhaust vent (531) and an indoor recirculation vent (532). The outdoor exhaust vent (531) is connected to the outside, and the indoor recirculation vent (532) is connected to the inside. A movable shield (54) is provided in the air outlet duct. The shield (54) is used to open one of the outdoor exhaust vent (531) and the indoor recirculation vent (532).

9. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 8, characterized in that, The air handling unit (100) also has a steam outlet (102) adjacent to the indoor recirculating air vent (532), and the steam outlet (202) is connected to the steam outlet (102).

10. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The humidifier box (20) includes: A housing (21) defining the humidification chamber (201); The cover (22) is disposed on the box body (21) and is detachably connected to the box body (21), and the heating element (40) is disposed on the cover (22).

11. The air handling apparatus (100) for an air conditioner according to claim 10, characterized in that, The box body (21) is provided with a partition (211) to divide the humidification chamber (201) into a first chamber and a second chamber with an open top. The partition (211) has a communication port (212) connecting the first chamber and the second chamber. The first chamber has a top post (213) that cooperates with the water tank (30). The cover (22) is provided on the second chamber to seal the second chamber.

12. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 11, characterized in that, The atomizing device (80) is installed in the second chamber.

13. The air handling apparatus (100) of the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The base (10) defines a mounting cavity (101), and the humidifying box (20) is detachably disposed in the mounting cavity (101).

14. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a water level detector, which is installed on the humidification box (20). A part of the water level detector extends into the humidification chamber (201) to detect the water level in the humidification chamber (201). The water level detector can control the operation of the heating element (40) according to the detected water level.

15. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 14, characterized in that, The heating element (40) is adapted to operate when the water level is not lower than the minimum water level controlled by the water level detector, the atomizing device (80) is adapted to operate when the water level is lower than the minimum water level controlled by the water level detector, and the height of the atomizing plate assembly (82) of the atomizing device (80) is higher than the minimum water level controlled by the water level detector.

16. An air conditioner, characterized in that, The air handling unit (100) includes the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-15.

17. The air conditioner according to claim 16, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes a housing, a portion of which forms the base (10) of the air handling unit (100), and the humidifier box (20) is located at the bottom of the air conditioner.

Images