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 and used for heating liquid in the humidifying cavity to form steam; wherein a mounting cavity with an open front side is defined in the seat body, the humidifying box is arranged in the mounting cavity in a drawable mode, the sealing piece is movably arranged at the steam input port between a first position and a second position, and when the humidifying box and the seat body are matched in place, the sealing piece is located at the first position so that the seat body and the humidifying box can be connected in a sealed mode. According to the air treatment device of the air conditioner, the steam humidification function is achieved, by arranging the movable sealing piece, the probability of deformation of the sealing piece is reduced, sealing between the steam outlet and the steam input port is achieved, and the humidification box is more convenient to pull and draw.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of air handling technology, and more specifically, to an air handling device and an air conditioner. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, air conditioners with air handling functions typically use high-efficiency HEPA filters for filtration. On the one hand, due to the limitations of the material properties of HEPA filters, they need to be replaced regularly. However, in actual use, users often forget to replace them, resulting in a significant reduction in the air purification effect. On the other hand, HEPA filters have limited ability to kill bacteria and viruses in the air, and they are also relatively expensive and inconvenient to replace, which also brings a certain economic burden. Therefore, the air handling function of air conditioners has research value. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one objective of this application is to provide an air handling device for an air conditioner that utilizes high-temperature steam for humidification, resulting in low cost and a good user experience.

[0004] This application also proposes an air conditioner.

[0005] An air handling device for an air conditioner according to a first aspect of this application includes: a base; a humidifier box disposed on the base and having a humidification chamber and a steam outlet, the steam outlet communicating with the humidification chamber; a water tank for introducing liquid into the humidification chamber; and a heating element disposed within the humidification chamber for heating the liquid within the humidification chamber to form steam. The base defines a front-opening mounting cavity, the humidifier box is removably disposed within the mounting cavity, and the air handling device has a steam outlet and a steam inlet. The steam outlet communicates with the steam inlet via a steam pipe and is used to output steam. The device further includes: a sealing member movably disposed at the steam inlet between a first position and a second position. When the humidifier box and the base are engaged, the sealing member is in the first position to seal the base and the humidifier box, and the steam inlet and the steam outlet are connected. When the humidifier box is separated from the base, the sealing member is in the second position.

[0006] The air handling device of the air conditioner according to the embodiments of this application has a steam humidification function, thereby improving the humidity of indoor air by steam humidification. At the same time, the high-temperature heating process can inhibit bacterial growth, kill indoor pollutants, and also achieve air settling, which helps to 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, thus reducing the later maintenance costs, reducing the need for frequent cleaning operations, and further improving the user experience.

[0007] In addition, by setting a seal that can move between the first and second positions, the probability of seal deformation is reduced, achieving a seal between the steam outlet and the steam inlet. The humidifier box is also easier to pull out. Furthermore, by moving the seal, the airtightness between the steam outlet and the steam pipe can be ensured after multiple pulls, making the pull-out point convenient. At the same time, the wear of the seal can be reduced, and the service life can be improved.

[0008] In some embodiments, the seat has a limiting structure, and the seal is installed to the limiting structure by an elastic member. When the seal is in the first position, the elastic member is in a compressed state; when the seal is in the second position, the elastic member is in a free state.

[0009] In some embodiments, the sealing element includes: a sealing body adapted to seal with the humidifier box and defining a steam passage; a connector disposed on one side of the sealing body and adapted to be movably connected to the limiting structure, wherein the elastic element is disposed between the sealing body and the limiting structure and abuts against the sealing body and the limiting structure respectively.

[0010] In some embodiments, the sealing body includes: a sealing outer ring adapted to seal with the humidifier box; a plurality of first connecting ribs connected within the sealing outer ring and connected to the connector, wherein the vapor passage is provided between the plurality of first connecting ribs and the sealing outer ring.

[0011] In some embodiments, the limiting structure includes: a limiting outer ring, which is mounted on the seat; a limiting inner ring, which is located inside the limiting outer ring; and a plurality of second connecting ribs, which are connected between the limiting outer ring and the limiting inner ring. The end of the connector away from the sealing body has a limiting protrusion, and the connecting rib passes through the limiting inner ring and the limiting protrusion is limited to the side of the limiting inner ring opposite to the sealing body.

[0012] In some embodiments, the seat body includes: a seat body defining the mounting cavity, the seat body having a seat body protrusion defining the steam outlet; and a cover disposed on the seat body and having a cover protrusion for connecting to the steam pipe, the cover having a limiting pressure cap inside, wherein the limiting structure is installed inside the seat body protrusion and the limiting pressure cap presses against the limiting structure.

[0013] In some embodiments, the humidifier box is provided with a steam outlet boss, the steam outlet boss defines the steam outlet, the seal defines a steam passage, the steam passage connects the steam outlet and the steam inlet, and the outer periphery of the seal is adapted to abut against the steam outlet boss.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer wall surface of the steam outlet boss is formed with a first guide slope, which gradually slopes downward in a direction away from the center of the steam outlet.

[0015] In some embodiments, the inner wall surface of the steam outlet boss is formed with a second guide slope, the second guide slope gradually extending upward in a direction away from the center of the steam outlet, and the end of the seal near the steam outlet has a mating slope with the same inclination angle as the second guide slope.

[0016] In some embodiments, the steam outlet boss further has a top wall surface located between the first guide ramp and the second guide ramp, the top wall surface being a plane.

[0017] In some embodiments, the base is provided with a limiting boss located at the top of the mounting cavity. The limiting boss is located on the side of the steam inlet near the opening of the mounting cavity. A stop member is provided on the outer side of the steam outlet boss. In the height direction, the top of the steam outlet boss is lower than the bottom of the limiting boss, and the top of the stop member is higher than the bottom of the limiting boss.

[0018] In some embodiments, the humidifier box includes: a box body defining the humidification chamber, the box body and the base body being pull-outly connected via a guide rail; and a cover body disposed on the box body and detachably connected to the box body, the heating element being disposed on the cover body.

[0019] In some embodiments, the device further includes a water level detector disposed on the cover, 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.

[0020] In some embodiments, the device further includes a protective cover, which is disposed outside the humidifier box and covers the electrical connection wires of the heating element. The protective cover has heat dissipation holes and wire passage holes, with the wire passage holes allowing the electrical connection wires of the heating element to pass through.

[0021] In some embodiments, the air handling device further includes a fan with its axis in the horizontal direction, a water tank located on one side of the fan along its axis, and a humidification box located at the bottom of the fan.

[0022] In some embodiments, the humidifier box includes a first box portion, a second box portion, and a third box portion. The second box portion is located on one side of the fan along its axial direction. The first box portion and the third box portion are located at opposite ends of the second box portion and extend toward the fan. The first box portion and the third box portion extend to one side of the fan in its radial direction.

[0023] An air conditioner according to a second aspect embodiment of this application includes an air handling device according to 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. Furthermore, by providing a seal that can move between a first position and a second position, the probability of seal deformation is reduced, achieving a seal between the steam outlet and the steam inlet. The humidification box is also easier to pull out. In addition, the movement of the seal ensures airtightness from the steam outlet to the steam pipe after multiple pulls, facilitating the pull-out process, while also reducing wear on the seal and increasing its service life.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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

[0026] 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:

[0027] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of the air handling apparatus according to this application;

[0028] Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the air handling apparatus according to this application;

[0029] Figure 3 yes Figure 2Top view of the structure shown;

[0030] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 Sectional view of line AA in the middle;

[0031] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 The center circle shows a magnified view of point B.

[0032] Figure 6 In other examples Figure 4 The center circle shows a magnified view of point B.

[0033] Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the CC line;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the fit between the humidifier box and the sealing element according to this application;

[0035] Figure 9 This is a structural schematic diagram of the humidifier box according to this application;

[0036] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the seal according to this application from one perspective;

[0037] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the seal according to this application from another perspective.

[0038] Figure label:

[0039] Air handling unit 100,

[0040] The components include: a seat body 10, a mounting cavity 101, a steam outlet 102, a steam inlet 103, a steam pipe 11, a limiting structure 12, a limiting outer ring 121, a limiting inner ring 122, a second connecting rib 123, a seat body 13, a seat body protrusion ring 131, a cover 14, a cover protrusion ring 141, a limiting pressure cap 142, a first connecting port 143, a second connecting port 144, a connecting cavity 145, and a limiting boss 15.

[0041] Humidifier box 20, first box body 20a, second box body 20b, third box body 20c, humidification chamber 201, steam outlet 202, box body 21, cover 22.

[0042] Steam outlet boss 24, first guide ramp 241, second guide ramp 242, top wall surface 243, stop 244, protective cover 26.

[0043] Water tank 30,

[0044] Heating element 40,

[0045] Fan 50,

[0046] Water level detector 70,

[0047] Seal 90, steam passage 901, mating inclined surface 902, sealing body 91, sealing outer ring 911, first connecting rib 912, connecting piece 92, limiting protrusion 921, elastic element 93. Detailed Implementation

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] An air conditioner according to an embodiment of this application includes an air conditioning unit and an air handling device 100. The air conditioning unit is an indoor unit, such as a wall-mounted unit or a floor-standing unit. The air conditioning unit typically includes structural components such as a fan 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.

[0052] The air handling unit 100 can be used to purify and humidify gases, thereby improving air quality and humidity.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] The air handling unit 100 uses steam humidification, giving the air conditioner 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, improving the user experience. Furthermore, this humidification method is not only faster and more effective, but also eliminates the need for filters, reducing maintenance costs and frequent cleaning, further enhancing the user experience.

[0057] The base 10 defines a front-open mounting cavity 101, and the humidifier box 20 is removably disposed in the mounting cavity 101. The air handling device 100 has a steam outlet 102 and a steam inlet 103. The steam outlet 102 is connected to the steam inlet 103 through a steam pipe 11, and the steam outlet 102 is used to output steam.

[0058] For example, a limiting structure is set on the base 10, which can be a buckle, slot, guide rail, etc., so that the humidifier box 20 can be detached. After the humidifier box 20 is detached, 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 it inconvenient to disassemble and unable to be thoroughly cleaned. Users can more intuitively observe and deal with the dirt on the heating element 40.

[0059] In addition, the air handling unit 100 also includes a seal 90, which is located at the steam inlet 103 and is movable between a first position and a second position. When the humidifier box 20 is engaged with the base 10, the seal 90 is in the first position to seal the base 10 and the humidifier box 20 together, and the steam inlet 103 and the steam outlet 202 are connected. When the humidifier box 20 is separated from the base 10, the seal 90 is in the second position.

[0060] If a fixed sealing ring is directly installed at the steam inlet 103 or the steam outlet 202, and the humidifier box 20 is pulled out as a whole for scale cleaning and then reinstalled inside the machine, the steam outlet 202 and the steam inlet 103 will be sealed by the sealing ring. The sealing ring will deform, resulting in poor sealing, steam leakage, and condensation. Long-term operation can easily breed bacteria.

[0061] According to the embodiment of this application, the air handling device 100 reduces the probability of deformation of the sealing member 90 by providing a sealing member 90 that can move between a first position and a second position, thereby achieving a seal between the steam outlet 202 and the steam inlet 103. The humidification box 20 is also easier to pull out. In addition, by moving the sealing member 90, the airtightness between the steam outlet 202 and the steam pipe 11 can be ensured after multiple pulls, making it convenient to pull out. At the same time, the wear of the sealing member 90 can be reduced, and its service life can be improved.

[0062] 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.

[0063] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the seat 10 has a limiting structure 12, and the seal 90 is installed to the limiting structure 12 via an elastic member 93. When the seal 90 is in the first position, the elastic member 93 is in a compressed state; when the seal 90 is in the second position, the elastic member 93 is in a free state. Thus, when the humidifier box 20 is separated from the seat 10, the seal 90 is in the second position and the elastic member 93 is in a free state. When the humidifier box 20 moves to engage with the seat 10, the elastic member 93 can be deformed until it is fully engaged. At this time, the seal 90 moves to the first position. Under the elastic force of the elastic member 93, the seal 90 is always pressed against the humidifier box 20. The seat 10 and the humidifier box 20 can achieve a reliable sealing connection through the seal 90.

[0064] By utilizing the combination of elastic element 93 and sealing element 90, the sealing element 90 will transfer the deformed part to elastic element 93 when it moves, reducing the force on itself in the vertical direction, thereby reducing its own deformation.

[0065] Among them, the elastic element 93 can be a spring, and the sealing element 90 can be a rubber part. Both the sealing element 90 and the elastic element 93 are made of high temperature resistant materials, and their temperature resistance must exceed 100℃.

[0066] like Figures 5-7 and Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the sealing element 90 includes a sealing body 91 and a connector 92. The sealing body 91 defines a steam passage 901 and can be sealed with the humidifier box 20. The connector 92 is located on one side of the sealing body 91 and can be movably connected with the limiting structure 12. An elastic element 93 is located between the sealing body 91 and the limiting structure 12 and abuts against the sealing body 91 and the limiting structure 12 respectively, thereby realizing the installation of the elastic element 93.

[0067] like Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the sealing body 91 includes: a sealing outer ring 911 and a plurality of first connecting ribs 912. The sealing outer ring 911 can be sealed with the humidifying box 20. The plurality of first connecting ribs 912 are connected inside the sealing outer ring 911, and the first connecting ribs 912 are connected to the connector 92. There is a vapor passage 901 between the plurality of first connecting ribs 912 and the sealing outer ring 911.

[0068] Thus, a steam passage 901 can be formed, and the sealing body 91 can cooperate with the humidification box 20 through the sealing outer ring 911. In addition, the sealing body 91 is connected to the outer periphery of the connector 92 through multiple first connecting ribs 912, which can improve the deformation resistance of the sealing body 91 and improve the reliability of the seal 90.

[0069] like Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the limiting structure 12 includes: a limiting outer ring 121, a limiting inner ring 122, and a plurality of second connecting ribs 123. The limiting outer ring 121 is mounted on the base 10, and the limiting inner ring 122 is located inside the limiting outer ring 121. The plurality of second connecting ribs 123 are connected between the limiting outer ring 121 and the limiting inner ring 122, thereby forming a limiting structure 12 with a through hole in the middle, so that steam can pass through the steam outlet 202 and the expired channel 901, and then through the limiting structure 12 to enter the steam transmission pipe 11.

[0070] The end of the connector 92 away from the sealing body 91 has a limiting protrusion 921. The connector 92 passes through the limiting inner ring 122, and the limiting protrusion 921 is limited on the side of the limiting inner ring 122 away from the sealing body 91. Thus, the seal 90 is snapped onto the limiting structure 12, which is convenient for installation. The seal 90 usually has a certain degree of flexibility, and the limiting protrusion 921 is easy to deform, which makes it easy to snap on after passing through the limiting inner ring 122.

[0071] like Figures 2-4 As shown, in some embodiments, the seat 10 includes a seat body 13 and a cover 14. The seat body 13 defines a mounting cavity 101. The seat body 13 has a seat body protrusion 131, which defines a steam outlet 102. The seat body protrusion 131 can be formed into a ring shape. A limiting structure 12 can be installed in the seat body protrusion 131, and the limiting structure 12 is interference-fitted with the inner wall surface of the seat body protrusion 131.

[0072] The cover 14 is provided on the base body 13, and the cover 14 can be connected to the base body 13 by fasteners.

[0073] The cover 14 has a cover protrusion ring 141, which is connected to the steam pipe 11. The cover 14 has a limiting cover 142 inside. The limiting structure 12 is installed inside the protrusion of the seat body 10, and the limiting cover 142 is pressed on the limiting structure 12. That is to say, the limiting structure 12 is installed between the cover 14 and the seat body 131, and the steam pipe 11 is also connected to the cover 14.

[0074] On the one hand, the seat body 10 is formed by assembling multiple components, and the manufacturing process of each component is simple. On the other hand, the limiting structure 12 is installed on the seat body 131, and the limiting structure 12 is limited by the internal structure of the cover 14, making the installation of the limiting structure 12 more convenient. Multiple components cooperate with the cover 14 respectively, which facilitates disassembly and maintenance.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the cover 14 defines a connecting cavity 145. The cover 14 has a first connecting port 143 and a second connecting port 144. The first connecting port 143 and the second connecting port 144 are respectively connected to the connecting cavity 145. The first connecting port 143 corresponds to the position of the steam output port 102, and the second connecting port 144 is connected to the steam transmission pipe 11. The first connecting port 143 and the second connecting port 144 can be vertically aligned or staggered. The position of the second connecting port 144 should be convenient for the installation of the steam transmission pipe 11.

[0076] In addition, the seat body 13 includes a front cover, which is located on the front side of the overall structure and can cover the internal structure. The back of the front cover can be provided with a groove, and a part of the steam pipe 11 is installed in the groove, thereby limiting the steam pipe 11 and improving the stability of the overall structure.

[0077] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, in some embodiments, the humidifier box 20 is provided with a steam outlet boss 24, which defines a steam outlet 202. The seal 90 defines a steam passage 901, which connects the steam outlet 202 and the steam inlet 103. The outer periphery of the seal 90 abuts against the steam outlet boss 24, thereby achieving a seal. The steam in the humidifier box 20 can be introduced into the steam pipe 11 through the steam outlet 202 and the steam passage 901, reducing the probability of steam leakage, improving the steam output effect, and preventing steam from spreading inside the air handling unit 100 and affecting the use of other components.

[0078] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer wall surface of the steam outlet boss 24 is formed with a first guide slope 241, which gradually slopes downward in a direction away from the center of the steam outlet 202, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the first guide slope 241 extends downward from the inside out. When the humidifier box 20 is pushed into the seat 10, the first guide slope 241 cooperates with the seal 90, thereby causing the seal 90 to gradually move to the second position. The first guide slope 241 can play a guiding role, which facilitates the movement of the seal 90 and thus facilitates the movement of the humidifier box 20.

[0079] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the inner wall surface of the steam outlet boss 24 is formed with a second guide slope 242. The second guide slope 242 gradually extends upward in a direction away from the center of the steam outlet 202. The end of the seal 90 near the steam outlet 202 has a mating slope 902 with the same inclination angle as the second guide slope 242. Figure 5 As shown, the second guide slope 242 extends upward from the inside out. When the humidifier box 20 is installed in place, the second guide slope 242 abuts against the mating slope 902 of the sealing element 90, which can improve the sealing effect. In addition, when the humidifier box 20 is taken out, the cooperation between the second guide slope 242 and the mating slope 902 can play a guiding role, making it easier to pull out the humidifier box 20.

[0080] Specifically, when the humidifier box 20 is not subjected to external force, the elastic element 93 is at its natural length. When the humidifier box 20 is pushed in from the outside, the elastic element 93 is deformed by pressure, and the sealing element 90 slides along the first guide slope 241. After passing the highest point of the first guide slope 241, the elastic element 93 has a tendency to recover its deformation. The elastic element 93 elongates, causing the sealing element 90 to seal the steam outlet 202. When the humidifier box 20 is pulled out from the seat 10, the elastic element 93 is also compressed, and the sealing element 90 disengages from the steam outlet 202 along the second guide slope 242. After passing the highest point of the second guide slope 242, the humidifier box 20 can disengage from the sealing element 90, thereby allowing the humidifier box 20 to be pulled out, and the sealing element 90 moves to the first position under the action of the elastic element 93.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the steam outlet boss 24 also has a top wall surface 243 located between the first guide slope 241 and the second guide slope 242. The top wall surface 243 is flat, so the top of the steam outlet boss 24 has a planar structure. During the pulling process of the humidifier box 20, when the steam outlet boss 24 lifts the seal 90 to the second position, the top wall surface 243 can support the seal 90. Under the support of the top wall surface 243, the contact area between the seal 90 and the steam outlet boss 24 can be increased, the stability of the seal 90 at the second position can be improved, and the probability of the seal 90 shaking and interfering with the activity of the humidifier box 20 can be reduced, making the pulling of the humidifier box 20 more convenient.

[0082] Of course, the upper ends of the first guide slope 241 and the second guide slope 242 can also be directly connected, thereby forming a topless structure for the steam outlet boss 24.

[0083] like Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the base 10 is provided with a limiting boss 15, which is located at the top of the mounting cavity 101, and the limiting boss 15 is located on the side of the steam inlet 103 near the opening of the mounting cavity 101 (e.g., Figure 6 As shown on the front side), a stop 244 is provided on the outer side of the steam outlet boss 24. In the height direction, the top of the steam outlet boss 24 is lower than the bottom of the limiting boss 15, and the top of the stop 244 is higher than the bottom of the limiting boss 15. Thus, when the humidifier box 20 is pulled out, the limiting boss 15 will not interfere with the entry and exit of the steam outlet boss 24. However, when the humidifier box 20 is installed in place, the sealing member 90 and the humidifier box 20 are in place, and the stop 244 can abut against the limiting boss 15, thereby preventing the humidifier box 20 from moving further inward, causing assembly displacement and sealing failure.

[0084] like Figure 9As 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] The cover 22 is equipped with a heating element 40 and a water level detector 70. A sealing strip is provided between the cover 22 and the box 21. The cover 22 and the box 21 can be fixed by snap-fit, which is convenient for disassembly.

[0089] like Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the air handling device 100 further includes a water level detector 70, which is disposed on the humidification box 20. A portion of the water level detector 70 extends into the humidification chamber 201 to detect the water level in the humidification chamber 201. The water level detector 70 can control the operation of the heating element 40 according to the detected water level. By setting the water level detector 70, the heating element 40 is prevented from being damaged due to prolonged dry burning.

[0090] The water level detector 70 can be 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.

[0091] The water level detector 70 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 70, the power supply to the heating element 40 is cut off to prevent the heating element 40 from burning dry and causing safety hazards.

[0092] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the air handling device 100 further includes a protective cover 26, which is disposed outside the humidification box 20. The protective cover 26 can cover the electrical connection wires of the heating element 40. The protective cover 26 is provided with heat dissipation holes and wire passage holes, with the wire passage holes for the electrical connection wires of the heating element 40 to pass through.

[0093] Since the surface temperature of the heating element 40 is high when the heating element 40 is working, the part installed on the humidification box 40 will have a certain amount of heat. Therefore, heat dissipation holes are provided on the protective cover 26 to facilitate heat dissipation of the heating element 40.

[0094] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the air handling device 100 further includes a fan 50, the fan 50 having a horizontal axis, a water tank 30 located on one side of the fan 50 with its axis pointing upwards, and a humidification box 20 located at the bottom of the fan 50. This makes full use of the space on the front side of the fan 50 for the installation of the water tank 30, and also makes full use of the space at the bottom of the fan 50 for the installation of the humidification box 20. The humidification box 20 can be pulled out from one side of the fan 50, making disassembly convenient.

[0095] The fan 50 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.

[0096] The air handling unit 100 of an air conditioner typically has the function of introducing fresh air, that is, it has a fresh air fan. The air handling unit 100 may also have the function of exhausting indoor stale air, that is, it has an exhaust fan. Here, the fan 50 can be an exhaust fan, a fresh air fan, or a separate fan.

[0097] In some embodiments, since the fan 50 is generally cylindrical, there is a certain space between the sides of the fan 50 and the bottom of the base 10. In order to make full use of this space, such as Figure 9 As shown, the humidifier box 20 includes a first box portion 20a, a second box portion 20b, and a third box portion 20c. The second box portion 20b is located on one side of the fan 50 along its axial direction. The first box portion 20a and the third box portion 20c are located at both ends of the second box portion 20b and extend towards the fan 50. The first box portion 20a and the third box portion 20c extend to one side of the fan 50 in its radial direction. This makes full use of the space inside the base 10, increases the capacity of the humidifier box 20 to a certain extent, and allows for an increase in the size of the heating element, thereby improving the steam humidification efficiency.

[0098] The air conditioner according to the embodiments of this application includes an air handling device 100 according to the embodiments of the air conditioner. By employing the air handling device 100, the air conditioner has a steam humidification function, which improves the humidity of indoor air by steam humidification. At the same time, the high-temperature heating process can inhibit bacterial growth. While killing indoor pollutants, it can also achieve air settling, which helps to 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 costs, reduce the frequency of cleaning operations, and further improve the user experience.

[0099] In some embodiments, the air conditioner 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, and a water tank 30 may also be disposed at the bottom of the air conditioner, thereby facilitating the disassembly and installation of the humidifier box 20 and the water tank 30.

[0100] 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 on top of the humidifier box 20, thereby making full use of the space inside the casing and improving the compactness of the structure.

[0101] The air handling unit 100 is installed at the bottom of the air conditioner. The steam humidification function can be turned on simultaneously with the fresh air or turned on separately. The steam humidification function has an independent steam supply pipeline. The steam outlet is parallel to the fan outlet, and the plane where the leading edge of the steam outlet is located should be flush with the fan outlet plane or slightly longer than the fresh air outlet plane to prevent fresh air from flowing back into the steam supply pipeline and preventing the steam from being discharged.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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 in the humidification chamber (201) and is used to heat the liquid in the humidification chamber (201) to form steam; The base (10) defines a front-opening mounting cavity (101), and the humidifying box (20) is removably disposed within the mounting cavity (101). The air handling unit (100) has a steam outlet (102) and a steam inlet (103). The steam outlet (102) is connected to the steam inlet (103) via a steam pipe (11). The steam outlet (102) is used to output steam. It also includes: a seal (90) movably disposed at the steam inlet (103) between a first position and a second position. When the humidifier box (20) and the seat (10) are in place, the seal (90) is in the first position to seal the seat (10) and the humidifier box (20) together, and the steam inlet (103) and the steam outlet (202) are connected; when the humidifier box (20) and the seat (10) are separated, the seal (90) is in the second position.

2. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The seat (10) has a limiting structure (12), and the seal (90) is installed to the limiting structure (12) by an elastic member (93). When the seal (90) is in the first position, the elastic member (93) is in a compressed state; when the seal (90) is in the second position, the elastic member (93) is in a free state.

3. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The seal (90) includes: A sealing body (91) is adapted to seal with the humidifier box (20) and defines an overflow passage (901); A connector (92) is disposed on one side of the sealing body (91), and the connector (92) is adapted to be movably connected to the limiting structure (12). The elastic element (93) is disposed between the sealing body (91) and the limiting structure (12) and abuts against the sealing body (91) and the limiting structure (12) respectively.

4. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sealing body (91) includes: A sealing outer ring (911) is adapted to seal with the humidifier box (20); A plurality of first connecting ribs (912) are connected within the sealing outer ring (911) and connected to the connector (92), and the vapor passage (901) is provided between the plurality of first connecting ribs (912) and the sealing outer ring (911).

5. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 3, characterized in that, The limiting structure (12) includes: A limiting outer ring (121) is mounted on the seat (10); A limiting inner ring (122) is located inside the limiting outer ring (121); A plurality of second connecting ribs (123) are connected between the limiting outer ring (121) and the limiting inner ring (122). The end of the connector (92) away from the sealing body (91) has a limiting protrusion (921). The connector (92) passes through the limiting inner ring (122) and the limiting protrusion (921) is limited to the side of the limiting inner ring (122) away from the sealing body (91).

6. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 2, characterized in that, The seat (10) includes: The seat body (13) defines the mounting cavity (101) and has a seat body protrusion (131) defining the steam outlet (102). A cover (14) is provided on the seat body (13) and has a cover protrusion (141), the cover protrusion (141) being used to connect with the steam pipe (11), and a limiting pressure cap (142) is provided inside the cover (14). The limiting structure (12) is installed inside the protrusion of the seat (10), and the limiting cover (142) is pressed onto the limiting structure (12).

7. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The humidifier box (20) is provided with a steam outlet boss (24), which defines the steam outlet (202). The seal (90) defines a steam passage (901), which connects the steam outlet (202) and the steam inlet (103). The outer periphery of the seal (90) is adapted to abut against the steam outlet boss (24).

8. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 7, characterized in that, At least a portion of the outer wall surface of the steam outlet boss (24) is formed with a first guide slope (241), which gradually slopes downward in a direction away from the center of the steam outlet (202).

9. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 8, characterized in that, The inner wall surface of the steam outlet boss (24) is formed with a second guide slope (242). The second guide slope (242) gradually extends upward in a direction away from the center of the steam outlet (202). The end of the seal (90) near the steam outlet (202) has a mating slope (902) with the same inclination angle as the second guide slope (242).

10. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 9, characterized in that, The steam outlet boss (24) also has a top wall surface (243) located between the first guide slope (241) and the second guide slope (242), and the top wall surface (243) is a plane.

11. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 7, characterized in that, The base (10) is provided with a limiting boss (15) located at the top of the mounting cavity (101). The limiting boss (15) is located on the side of the steam inlet (103) near the opening of the mounting cavity (101). A stop (244) is provided on the outer side of the steam outlet boss (24). In the height direction, the top of the steam outlet boss (24) is lower than the bottom of the limiting boss (15), and the top of the stop member (244) is higher than the bottom of the limiting boss (15).

12. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, The humidifier box (20) includes: The box body (21) defines the humidification chamber (201), and the box body (21) and the base body (10) are pull-out connected by a guide rail; 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).

13. The air handling unit (100) of the air conditioner according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A protective cover (26) is provided on the outside of the humidifier box (20) and covers the electrical connection wires of the heating element (40). The protective cover (26) is provided with heat dissipation holes and wire holes, and the wire holes are for the electrical connection wires of the heating element (40) to pass through.

14. An air conditioner, characterized in that, The air handling unit (100) includes the air conditioner according to any one of claims 1-13.

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