Air conditioner
By heating water with an electric heating element to generate steam and utilizing a plug-in structure and snap-fit design, the problems of low humidification efficiency and poor water quality adaptability of air conditioning are solved, achieving efficient and stable humidification effect and simple maintenance, ensuring the safety and reliability of the equipment.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202520468529.X
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-03
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-03-17
AI Technical Summary
Existing air conditioning humidification functions suffer from low humidification efficiency and poor water quality adaptability. In particular, traditional humidification methods are prone to impurities and odors when the airflow is complex and the water quality is substandard.
The device uses an electric heating element to heat water, causing it to evaporate and generate steam. The plug-in structure and connector design simplify installation. It features a dry-burning prevention structure to monitor the liquid level, utilizes the physical evaporation characteristics of water to improve humidification efficiency, and uses a snap-fit structure for easy disassembly and maintenance. The device also features a well-designed steam pipe for steam transmission.
It improves humidification efficiency and speed, reduces water quality requirements, extends the service life of electric heating elements, ensures the stability and safety of humidification effect, simplifies the maintenance process, and reduces maintenance costs.
Smart Images

Figure CN223965507U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of air conditioning technology, and more particularly to an air conditioner. Background Technology
[0002] As consumers increasingly demand integrated functions in home appliances, the number of integrated functional modules in air conditioners is constantly increasing. In addition to basic cooling and heating functions, functions such as air purification and indoor humidification are also gradually being introduced.
[0003] The application of humidification function is becoming increasingly widespread. In related technologies, a humidification shell containing an air inlet and an air outlet is usually used. The humidification chamber humidifies the drawn-in outside air. For example, a humidification ring design with an annular chamber, a water inlet, and multiple inner wall nozzles pointing inward is used. However, due to the complex airflow path in the annular chamber, the humidification efficiency is low, making it difficult to significantly increase indoor humidity in a short time, resulting in low overall efficiency. Alternatively, the cold evaporation principle is used, where water is integrated into the fresh air in the form of gaseous molecules and then delivered to the indoor space. The air does not come into sufficient contact with the humidification medium to achieve mist-free humidification, but this method has high requirements for water quality. If the water quality is not up to standard, impurities such as calcium and magnesium ions and microorganisms in the water will adhere to and grow on the surface of the humidification components, which will not only seriously affect the humidification efficiency but may also produce odors and pollute the indoor air.
[0004] Therefore, existing air conditioning humidification functions suffer from low humidification efficiency and poor water quality adaptability. Utility Model Content
[0005] This application discloses an air conditioner that can improve humidification efficiency and water quality adaptability.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application discloses an air conditioner, comprising:
[0007] Cabinet units, including:
[0008] The housing has a first mounting cavity inside, and the housing is provided with a steam outlet and a first mounting port communicating with the first mounting cavity;
[0009] Humidification component, the humidification component being disposed within the housing, the humidification component comprising:
[0010] An electric heating element having a heating chamber for containing water and heating the water to cause it to evaporate and generate steam;
[0011] A steam pipe is installed inside the housing. One end of the steam pipe is connected to the heating chamber, and the other end is connected to the steam outlet. Steam can flow from the heating chamber to the steam outlet through the steam pipe and be blown into the indoor space through the steam outlet.
[0012] The electric heating element is detachably installed in the first mounting cavity via the first mounting port, and the electric heating element includes:
[0013] A heating chamber is formed inside the heating chamber.
[0014] A heating element is disposed inside the heating chamber and is used to heat the water inside the heating chamber.
[0015] In this way, by regularly disassembling and cleaning, excessive accumulation of scale and impurities in the heating chamber on the surface of the electric heating element can be prevented, avoiding problems such as decreased heating efficiency and increased energy consumption caused by impurity accumulation, extending the service life of the electric heating element, and ensuring the stability of the humidification effect. The electric heating element directly heats the water in the heating chamber, and electrical energy is converted into heat energy and directly acts on the water. Compared with some indirect heating or natural evaporation methods, it can quickly raise the water temperature to the boiling point and evaporate a large amount of steam in a short time, which greatly improves the humidification efficiency and speed. Moreover, the heating method mainly utilizes the physical evaporation characteristics of water. Even if the water quality is average, impurities in the water will not adhere and accumulate as easily as on cold evaporation components, affecting performance. Furthermore, a sterilization effect can be achieved during the heating process, which relatively reduces the requirements for water quality.
[0016] This application also provides an air conditioner.
[0017] The humidification component also includes:
[0018] A heating base is disposed at the bottom of the first mounting cavity;
[0019] The heating chamber and the heating base are electrically connected via the plug-in structure.
[0020] Thus, the heating chamber and the heating base are electrically connected by a plug-in structure, making the installation process simple and quick. During installation, simply align and insert the plug-in structure between the heating chamber and the heating base to complete the connection, without the need for complicated wiring and screw fixing. When disassembling, simply pull out the plug-in structure to easily separate the heating chamber from the heating base, making it convenient for individual maintenance, cleaning, or replacement of the heating chamber.
[0021] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein the plug-in structure includes:
[0022] The first electrical connector is located at the bottom of the heating chamber and is electrically connected to the heating element.
[0023] The second electrical connector is disposed on the heating base and corresponds to the first electrical connector in the vertical direction. The second electrical connector is used for electrical connection with the power source.
[0024] Thus, the first electrical connector is located at the bottom of the heating chamber, and the second electrical connector is on the heating base and corresponds vertically to the first electrical connector. This precise positioning design ensures that the two can be accurately connected during installation, making the current transmission path stable and avoiding problems such as poor contact and increased resistance caused by misalignment of the connectors. This ensures that the heating element can stably obtain power from the power source and work continuously and normally.
[0025] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein one of the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector is a plug and the other is a socket.
[0026] Thus, the plug-and-play connection of the plug and socket allows the heating chamber to be installed on the heating base simply by aligning the plug with the socket to complete the electrical connection. Disassembly is done by simply unplugging the plug, making the operation simple and quick, and facilitating the maintenance and replacement of the heating chamber.
[0027] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein the electric heating element further includes:
[0028] The first plug-in structure is disposed at the bottom of the heating box body;
[0029] The second plug-in structure is disposed on the bottom wall of the first mounting cavity. The first plug-in structure and the second plug-in structure can be plugged in vertically to position the heating box body in the first mounting cavity.
[0030] Thus, the first plug-in structure is located at the bottom of the heating chamber, and the second plug-in structure is located on the bottom wall of the first mounting cavity, with the two plugged in vertically. This allows for quick alignment of the heating chamber with the first mounting cavity during installation, eliminating the need to spend excessive time finding the installation position or adjusting the angle. Simply tilt the heating chamber vertically downwards and bring the first and second plug-in structures close together to achieve positioning, thus improving installation efficiency. When it is necessary to remove the heating chamber from the first mounting cavity, simply lift the heating chamber vertically upwards to separate the first and second plug-in structures, making it easy to remove the heating chamber and facilitating disassembly.
[0031] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein one of the first plug-in structure and the second plug-in structure is a plug-in protrusion and the other is a plug-in groove.
[0032] Thus, from an installation perspective, when aligning the heating box with the insertion slot with the bottom wall of the first mounting cavity with the insertion protrusion, the insertion slot can be more easily inserted into the insertion protrusion from above. The operation is relatively simple and intuitive. Especially in some installation environments with limited space, this method can be installed more flexibly, reducing the difficulties caused by space limitations during the installation process.
[0033] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein the top of the heating box is provided with an opening;
[0034] The electric heating element also includes:
[0035] The top cover and the heating box are detachably connected by a snap-fit structure. The top cover is provided with a connection port, which is connected to the steam water pipe, and the steam can enter the steam water pipe through the connection port.
[0036] Thus, when it is necessary to clean, repair, or replace heating elements and other components inside the heating chamber, the top cover can be easily removed from the heating chamber through the snap-fit structure. Compared with other complex connection methods that require screws, the snap-fit structure makes the disassembly process simpler and faster.
[0037] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein the snap-fit structure includes:
[0038] A flexible hook is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the top cover;
[0039] A snap-fit boss is provided on the inner wall of the heating chamber. When the top cover is installed downwards onto the heating chamber, the elastic hook snaps into the bottom of the snap-fit boss to fix the top cover onto the heating chamber.
[0040] Thus, the cooperation between the elastic hook and the locking boss makes the installation process relatively smooth. Simply align the top cover with the heating chamber and press it vertically downwards. The elastic hook will deform under the pressure, quickly rebound after passing the locking boss, and lock into place below the boss, thus fixing the top cover to the heating chamber. No complicated operations are required, which improves installation efficiency. When removing the top cover, simply lift the top cover upwards, causing the elastic hook to deform under the force and disengage from the locking boss. The top cover can then be easily removed, allowing quick access to the interior of the heating chamber for inspection, cleaning, or replacement of parts, shortening maintenance time and reducing maintenance costs.
[0041] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein the heating chamber further forms an electrical appliance receiving cavity, the electrical appliance receiving cavity is located at the bottom of the heating cavity, and a first drain outlet is provided on the bottom wall of the electrical appliance receiving cavity;
[0042] The heating base is provided with a second drain outlet, one end of which is connected to the first drain outlet and the other end is connected to the bottom of the first mounting cavity.
[0043] Thus, when the heating chamber leaks water due to thermal expansion and contraction, the leaked water can be drained through the first drain to the second drain, since the electrical housing is located at the bottom of the heating chamber and is equipped with a first drain outlet. The water can then be drained through the second drain outlet to the bottom of the first mounting chamber and air-dried naturally, preventing water from accumulating in the electrical housing and soaking the electrical components, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the components due to short circuits or moisture.
[0044] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein the humidification component further includes:
[0045] An anti-dry-burning structure is provided, wherein the anti-interference structure is used to monitor the liquid level in the heating chamber and cut off the heating circuit when the liquid level is lower than a preset height.
[0046] Thus, by setting up an anti-dry-burning structure, and promptly monitoring abnormal liquid levels and cutting off the heating circuit, the possibility of fire caused by dry burning is eliminated, providing reliable safety protection for the operating environment.
[0047] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein the anti-dry-burning structure includes a float switch disposed within the heating chamber.
[0048] In this way, the float switch can follow the changes in liquid level in real time. When the liquid level reaches the preset minimum height, it can quickly cut off the heating circuit. The fast response speed can prevent the heating element from continuing to work in a very short time, effectively avoiding the heating chamber from continuing to heat when the liquid level is too low, and minimizing the potential damage to the equipment.
[0049] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein a descaling agent placement tank is provided in the heating chamber, the descaling agent placement tank being used to place the descaling agent to eliminate the scale generated during the heating process.
[0050] In this way, by placing the descaling agent in the descaling agent placement tank, the effective ingredients are gradually released during the heating process, reacting chemically with the scale to dissolve or soften it, preventing it from adhering and accumulating on the inner wall of the heating chamber. This ensures that the heat generated by the heating element can be quickly and efficiently transferred to the water, improving heating efficiency, reducing heating time, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing the frequency of cleaning the heating chamber, thus improving the user experience.
[0051] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein a second mounting port is provided on the side of the housing;
[0052] The humidification component also includes a liquid storage tank, which is movably installed in the second mounting port. The liquid storage tank can move between an open state and a retracted state. When the liquid storage tank is in the open state, water can be added to the liquid storage tank. When the liquid storage tank is in the retracted state, the liquid storage tank is connected to the heating chamber.
[0053] Thus, when the liquid tank is open, the replenishment port of the liquid tank exposes the second installation port, allowing users to directly add water to the liquid tank through the replenishment port, or to take it to a water source for refilling. The liquid tank can be equipped with a handle or grip for easy handling and transport. When the liquid tank is in the stored state, it is connected to the heating chamber and automatically supplies water to the heating chamber through gravity or pressure difference. When the water level in the heating chamber drops, water from the liquid tank will automatically flow into the heating chamber to maintain a stable water level and ensure continuous humidification without frequent manual intervention from the user, thus improving ease of use.
[0054] This application also provides an air conditioner, wherein the first mounting port is disposed on the front of the housing, and a portion of the heating chamber protrudes from the first mounting port toward the front of the housing.
[0055] This design allows for more hand space to grip and pry when disassembling the heating tank. Compared to the heating tank being completely embedded in the casing, the protruding design makes it easier for users to find a point of leverage and simply lift the heating tank slightly upwards, reducing the difficulty of disassembly and improving disassembly efficiency. Attached Figure Description
[0056] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0057] Figure 1 This is a front view of the air conditioner provided in the embodiment of this application;
[0058] Figure 2 This is a front view of the housing provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0059] Figure 3 This is a front view of the electric heating element provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0060] Figure 4 This is a top view of the electric heating element provided in the embodiment of this application;
[0061] Figure 5 This is a bottom view of the electric heating element provided in the embodiment of this application;
[0062] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;
[0063] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the top cover and electric heating element provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0064] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the top cover provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0065] Figure 9 This is a rear view of the electric heating element provided in the embodiment of this application;
[0066] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the cabinet machine provided in an embodiment of this application from another perspective;
[0067] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged view of point B in the middle;
[0068] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the housing provided in an embodiment of this application from another perspective;
[0069] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a humidification assembly with a water storage tank provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0070] Explanation of main figure symbols
[0071] 1-Air conditioner;
[0072] 10-Cabinet type;
[0073] 11-Housing; 11a-First mounting cavity; 11b-Steam outlet; 11c-First mounting port; 11d-Second mounting port;
[0074] 100-Humidification component;
[0075] 110-Electric heating element; 110a-Heating chamber; 1101-Heating box body; 1101a-Electric appliance receiving cavity; 1101b-First drain outlet; 1101c-Descaling agent placement tank; 1101d-Opening; 1102-Heating element; 1103-First plug-in structure; 1104-Second plug-in structure; 1105-Top cover; 1105a-Connection port; 1106-Snap-fit structure; 1106a-Elastic hook; 1106b-Snap-fit boss;
[0076] 120-Steam water pipe;
[0077] 130 - Heating base; 130a - Second drain outlet;
[0078] 140 - Plug-in structure; 1401 - First electrical connector; 1402 - Second electrical connector;
[0079] 150- Anti-dry-burning structure;
[0080] 160 - Liquid storage tank; 160a - Rotary structure. Detailed Implementation
[0081] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0082] In this application, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "middle," "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," and "longitudinal" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this application and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.
[0083] Furthermore, in addition to indicating location or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.
[0084] Furthermore, the terms "installation," "setup," "equipped with," "connection," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; 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, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.
[0085] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are primarily used to distinguish different devices, elements, or components whose specific types and structures may be the same or different, and are not intended to indicate or imply the relative importance or quantity of the indicated devices, elements, or components. Unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.
[0086] As mentioned in the background section, existing technologies typically employ a humidifier housing containing an air inlet and an air outlet. The humidifier chamber humidifies the incoming outside air. For example, a humidifier ring design with an annular chamber, a water inlet, and multiple inner wall nozzles pointing inwards can be used. Alternatively, the cold evaporation principle can be employed, where water is incorporated into the fresh air in the form of gaseous molecules and then delivered to the indoor space. Insufficient contact between the air and the humidifying medium achieves mist-free humidification, but problems such as low humidification efficiency and poor water quality adaptability still exist.
[0087] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides an air conditioner that heats water using an electric heating element, causing the water to evaporate and generate steam. Electrical energy is converted into heat energy and directly acts on the water. Compared to some indirect heating or natural evaporation methods, this method can rapidly raise the water temperature to its boiling point and generate a large amount of steam in a short time, greatly improving humidification efficiency and speed. Furthermore, the heating method mainly utilizes the physical evaporation characteristics of water. Even if the water quality is average, impurities in the water will not easily adhere and accumulate during the heating process as they would on cold evaporation components, thus affecting performance. Moreover, a sterilization effect can be achieved during the heating process, thus relatively reducing the requirements for water quality.
[0088] The following will describe specific embodiments and appendices. Figure 1-13 The technical solution of the air conditioner in this application will be further explained.
[0089] like Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioner 1 includes a cabinet unit 10, wherein the cabinet unit 10 is an indoor unit of the split air conditioner 1 with a floor-standing design, which is usually placed on the indoor floor, and the compressor and other refrigeration equipment are located in the outdoor unit. The indoor unit and the outdoor unit are connected to each other through pipes and lines to work.
[0090] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cabinet unit 10 includes a housing 11, which has a first mounting cavity 11a inside. The housing 11 is provided with a steam outlet 11b and a first mounting port 11c that communicates with the first mounting cavity 11a.
[0091] like Figure 1 As shown, the cabinet air conditioner 10 includes a humidification component 100, which is disposed inside the housing 11. The humidification component 100 may be made of a high-temperature resistant material.
[0092] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the humidification assembly 100 includes an electric heating element 110, which has a heating chamber 110a for containing water and heating the water to cause the water to evaporate and generate steam.
[0093] The electric heating element 110 can quickly raise the temperature of the water in the heating chamber 110a, causing the water to evaporate rapidly. Compared with some other natural evaporation humidification methods, it can generate a large amount of steam in a shorter time, quickly increase the indoor air humidity, and effectively alleviate the dryness problem. Moreover, unlike some traditional humidification methods, it does not require advance preparation or a long wait for humidification to take effect. As long as the power is turned on, the electric heating element 110 can work quickly and generate steam for humidification, thus improving humidification efficiency.
[0094] In addition, the water is heated by the electric heating element 110 to produce water vapor. Unlike some complex humidification methods that rely on the conductivity and ion exchange of water, it does not rely on the specific chemical properties of water to achieve the humidification function. It simply uses the physical evaporation characteristics of water, so it is less sensitive to various impurities and ions in the water, and can reduce the requirements for water quality.
[0095] like Figure 1 As shown, the humidification component 100 includes a steam pipe 120, which is disposed inside the housing 11. One end of the steam pipe 120 is connected to the heating chamber 110a and the other end is connected to the steam outlet 11b. Steam can flow from the heating chamber 110a to the steam outlet 11b through the steam pipe 120, and then be blown into the indoor space through the steam outlet 11b.
[0096] The steam pipe 120 can precisely guide the steam generated in the heating chamber 110a to the steam outlet 11b, ensuring that the steam flows along the set path and avoiding irregular diffusion of steam in the casing 11. This improves the efficiency and accuracy of steam transmission, allowing the steam to be delivered to the indoor space for humidification more effectively. Furthermore, by rationally designing the direction of the steam pipe 120 and the position, number, and shape of the steam outlet 11b, the steam can be more evenly distributed in the indoor space when it is blown out from the steam outlet 11b. For example, placing the steam outlet 11b near the air outlet of the air conditioner 1, or designing multiple steam outlets 11b, can allow the steam to mix better with the air blown out by the air conditioner 1, thereby forming a more uniform humidity field in the room and avoiding situations where the local humidity is too high or too low.
[0097] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the electric heating element 110 can be detachably installed in the first mounting cavity 11a through the first mounting port 11c.
[0098] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the electric heating element 110 may include a heating box 1101, and a heating cavity 110a is formed inside the heating box 1101.
[0099] In this way, by regularly disassembling and cleaning, excessive accumulation of scale and impurities in the heating chamber 110a on the surface of the electric heating element 110 can be prevented, avoiding problems such as decreased heating efficiency and increased energy consumption caused by impurity accumulation, extending the service life of the electric heating element 110, and ensuring the stability of the humidification effect.
[0100] In summary, by using an electric heating element 110 to directly heat the water in the heating chamber 110a, electrical energy is converted into heat energy and directly acts on the water. Compared with some indirect heating or natural evaporation methods, this method can rapidly raise the water temperature to the boiling point and generate a large amount of steam in a short time, which greatly improves the humidification efficiency and speed. Moreover, the heating method mainly utilizes the physical evaporation characteristics of water. Even if the water quality is average, impurities in the water will not easily adhere and accumulate during the heating process as they do on cold evaporation components, thus affecting performance. Furthermore, a sterilization effect can be achieved during the heating process, which relatively reduces the requirements for water quality.
[0101] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the electric heating element 110 may further include a heating element 1102, which is disposed in the heating chamber 110a and is used to heat the water in the heating chamber 110a. The heating element 1102 may be a resistance wire heating element 1102, a PTC heating element 1102, a heating tube heating element 1102, etc., and is not limited here.
[0102] like Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the humidification assembly 100 may also include a heating base 130, which is disposed at the bottom of the first mounting cavity 11a.
[0103] like Figure 1 As shown, the humidification assembly 100 may also include a plug-in structure 140, through which the heating chamber 1101 and the heating base 130 are electrically connected.
[0104] Thus, the heating chamber 1101 and the heating base 130 are electrically connected through the plug-in structure 140, making the installation process simple and quick. During installation, simply align and insert the plug-in structure 140 of the heating chamber 1101 and the heating base 130 to complete the connection, without the need for complicated wiring and screw fixing. During disassembly, simply pull out the plug-in structure 140 to easily separate the heating chamber 1101 from the heating base 130, facilitating individual maintenance, cleaning, or replacement of the heating chamber 1101.
[0105] Of course, the electrical connection between the heating chamber 1101 and the heating base 130 is not limited to the plug-in structure 140. For example, terminals can be provided on the heating chamber 1101 and the heating base 130 respectively, and the terminals of the two can be connected by wires to achieve electrical connection; or magnetic connectors can be installed on the heating chamber 1101 and the heating base 130 respectively. These magnetic connectors are made of conductive material with magnetic properties. When the heating chamber 1101 is close to the heating base 130, the magnetic connectors will automatically attract each other under the action of magnetic force to achieve electrical connection.
[0106] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the plug-in structure 140 may include a first electrical connector 1401, which is disposed at the bottom of the heating box 1101 and is electrically connected to the heating element 1102.
[0107] like Figure 6 As shown, the plug-in structure 140 may further include a second electrical connector 1402, which is disposed on the heating base 130 and corresponds to the first electrical connector 1401 in the vertical direction. The second electrical connector 1402 is used for electrical connection with a power source.
[0108] Thus, the first electrical connector 1401 is located at the bottom of the heating chamber 1101, and the second electrical connector 1402 is on the heating base 130 and corresponds vertically to the first electrical connector 1401. This precise positioning design ensures that the two can be accurately connected during installation, making the current transmission path stable and avoiding problems such as poor contact and increased resistance caused by misalignment of the connectors. This ensures that the heating element 1102 can stably obtain power from the power supply and work continuously and normally.
[0109] Furthermore, this separate electrical connector design allows the heating chamber 1101 and heating base 130 to be assembled and debugged separately during installation, and then connected by the electrical connector. This greatly improves installation efficiency. Installers only need to align the heating chamber 1101 with the heating base 130 and accurately connect the first electrical connector 1401 and the second electrical connector 1402 to complete the electrical connection. There is no need for complex wiring and connection operations during installation. When the heating chamber 1101 needs to be cleaned, it can be directly separated from the heating base 130. By disconnecting the first electrical connector 1401 and the second electrical connector 1402, the heating chamber 1101 can be easily moved to a suitable location for maintenance without the need for large-scale disassembly of the entire equipment's circuit system. This reduces maintenance difficulty and cost, and shortens repair time.
[0110] In some possible embodiments, one of the first electrical connector 1401 and the second electrical connector 1402 is a plug and the other is a socket.
[0111] In this configuration, the first electrical connector 1401 can be a plug and the second electrical connector 1402 can be a socket. The first electrical connector 1401 at the bottom of the heating box 1101 exists in the form of a plug and can be directly inserted into the second electrical connector 1402, which serves as a socket, to achieve electrical connection between the heating box 1101 and the heating base 130, thereby connecting the heating element 1102 to the power supply. Alternatively, the first electrical connector 1401 can be a socket and the second electrical connector 1402 can be a plug.
[0112] The plug-and-socket connection allows the heating chamber 1101 to be installed on the heating base 130 simply by aligning the plug with the socket to complete the electrical connection. Disassembly is done by simply pulling out the plug, making the operation simple and quick and convenient for maintenance, replacement and other operations of the heating chamber 1101.
[0113] Specifically, the main body of the socket is made of high-temperature resistant, insulating plastic or ceramic materials, which serve to fix and protect the internal conductive components and prevent electric shock to the user. Its shape is usually round or square, matching the shape of the bottom of the electric kettle to ensure a stable installation. The socket body has metal sockets, generally made of copper or other highly conductive metals, usually three, arranged in a triangle or straight line, corresponding to the live wire, neutral wire, and ground wire of the power supply, respectively. The plug shell is also made of high-temperature resistant, insulating plastic material, and its shape and size match the socket, usually cylindrical or flat, for easy insertion into the socket. The plug includes metal prongs, the number of which corresponds to the socket's prongs. The metal prongs of the plug are connected to the heating element 1102 and other circuit components inside the electric kettle through wires. The wires are generally made of multi-strand copper core wires, wrapped with an insulation layer to ensure the stability and safety of current transmission. The wires and metal prongs are usually connected by welding or crimping to ensure a firm connection that is not easy to loosen. One of the prongs is the ground prong. When the plug is inserted into the socket, the ground prong will connect to the grounding hole of the socket before the other prongs. This ensures that in the event of a fault such as leakage in the heating box 1101, the current can be preferentially conducted to the ground through the ground wire to protect the user's safety. In the preferred embodiment, both the body of the socket and the outer shell of the plug are circular.
[0114] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the electric heating element 110 may include a first plug-in structure 1103, which is disposed at the bottom of the heating box 1101.
[0115] like Figure 6As shown, the electric heating element 110 may also include a second insertion structure 1104, which is disposed on the bottom wall of the first mounting cavity 11a. The first insertion structure 1103 and the second insertion structure 1104 can be inserted vertically to position the heating box 1101 in the first mounting cavity 11a.
[0116] The first insertion structure 1103 is located at the bottom of the heating chamber 1101, and the second insertion structure 1104 is located on the bottom wall of the first mounting cavity 11a. The two are inserted vertically. In this way, when installing the heating chamber 1101, it can be quickly aligned with the first mounting cavity 11a without spending too much time finding the installation position or adjusting the angle. Simply place the heating chamber 1101 vertically downward and bring the first and second insertion structures 1104 close to each other to complete the positioning naturally, which improves the installation efficiency. When it is necessary to remove the heating chamber 1101 from the first mounting cavity 11a, simply lift the heating chamber 1101 vertically upward to separate the first and second insertion structures 1104, and easily remove the heating chamber 1101 for easy disassembly.
[0117] Furthermore, the first and second plug-in structures 1104 cooperate with each other to provide stable mechanical support in the vertical direction, so that the weight of the heating box 1101 is evenly transferred to the bottom wall of the first mounting cavity 11a through the plug-in structure, thereby firmly fixing the heating box 1101 in the first mounting cavity 11a.
[0118] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, one of the first plug-in structure 1103 and the second plug-in structure 1104 is a plug-in protrusion and the other is a plug-in groove.
[0119] In this embodiment, the first insertion structure 1103 can be an insertion protrusion and the second insertion structure 1104 can be an insertion groove; or the first insertion structure 1103 can be an insertion groove and the second insertion structure 1104 can be an insertion protrusion. This embodiment uses the first insertion structure 1103 as an insertion groove and the second insertion structure 1104 as an insertion protrusion as an example for explanation. From the perspective of installation operation, when the heating box 1101 with the insertion groove is aligned with the bottom wall of the first mounting cavity 11a with the insertion protrusion for installation, the insertion groove can be more easily inserted into the insertion protrusion from above. The operation is relatively simple and intuitive. Especially in some installation environments with limited space, this method can be installed more flexibly and reduce the difficulties caused by space limitations during the installation process.
[0120] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, the top of the heating chamber 1101 is provided with an opening 1101d.
[0121] The electric heating element 110 may also include a top cover 1105. The top cover 1105 and the heating box 1101 are detachably connected by a snap-fit structure 1106. The top cover 1105 is provided with a connection port 1105a. The opening 1101d is connected to the connection port 1105a and is connected to the steam water pipe 120. Steam can enter the steam water pipe 120 through the opening 1101d.
[0122] Thus, when it is necessary to clean, repair or replace components such as heating element 1102 inside the heating chamber 1101, the top cover 1105 can be easily removed from the heating chamber 1101 through the snap-fit structure 1106. Compared with other complex connection methods that require screws, the disassembly process of the snap-fit structure 1106 is simpler and faster.
[0123] Furthermore, the snap-fit structure 1106 not only enables the top cover 1105 to be detachably connected to the heating box 1101, but also ensures the airtightness between the two. By setting a sealing gasket or adopting a special sealing design at the snap-fit part, it can effectively prevent steam from leaking out from the connection between the heating box 1101 and the top cover 1105. This not only avoids the impact of steam leakage on the surrounding environment, but also improves the utilization efficiency of steam, ensuring that all steam can be delivered to the indoor space through the steam pipe 120.
[0124] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the snap-fit structure 1106 may include an elastic snap hook 1106a, which is disposed on the outer peripheral wall of the top cover 1105.
[0125] like Figure 7 As shown, the snap-fit structure 1106 may also include a snap-fit boss 1106b, which is disposed on the inner wall of the heating chamber 1101. When the top cover 1105 is installed downwards onto the heating chamber 1101, the elastic hook 1106a snaps into the bottom of the snap-fit boss 1106b to fix the top cover 1105 onto the heating chamber 1101.
[0126] Thus, the cooperation between the elastic hook 1106a and the locking boss 1106b makes the installation process relatively smooth. Simply align the top cover 1105 with the heating chamber 1101 and press it vertically downwards. The elastic hook 1106a will be compressed and deform elastically, passing over the locking boss 1106b and quickly rebounding to lock under the boss, thus fixing the top cover 1105 to the heating chamber 1101. No complicated operations are required, improving installation efficiency. When removing the top cover 1105, simply lift the top cover 1105 upwards, causing the elastic hook 1106a to deform under force and disengage from the locking boss 1106b. The top cover 1105 can then be easily removed, allowing quick access to the interior of the heating chamber 1101 for inspection, cleaning, or replacement of parts, shortening maintenance time and reducing maintenance costs.
[0127] In addition, when the elastic hook 1106a is engaged with the locking boss 1106b, the gap between the two is extremely small. It can also be used with a sealing gasket to effectively prevent steam leakage, avoid steam escaping and affecting the surrounding environment, and ensure that steam is efficiently transmitted to the steam water pipe 120.
[0128] Of course, a snap-fit boss 1106b can also be provided on the outer peripheral wall of the top cover 1105, and an elastic hook 1106a can be provided on the inner wall of the heating box 1101.
[0129] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, the heating chamber 1101 also forms an electrical receiving cavity 1101a, which is located at the bottom of the heating chamber 110a. The bottom wall of the electrical receiving cavity 1101a is provided with a first drain outlet 1101b. The electrical receiving cavity 1101a is used to receive the wires connecting the first electrical connector 1401 and the heating element 1102.
[0130] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, a second drain port 130a is provided on the heating base 130. One end of the second drain port 130a is connected to the first drain port 1101b, and the other end is connected to the bottom of the first mounting cavity 11a.
[0131] When the heating chamber 1101 leaks water due to thermal expansion and contraction, the electrical appliance receiving cavity 1101a is located at the bottom of the heating cavity 110a and is provided with a first drain outlet 1101b. The leaked water can be drained through the first drain outlet 1101b to the second drain outlet 130a, and then promptly drained through the second drain outlet 130a to the bottom of the first mounting cavity 11a and air-dried naturally. This prevents water from accumulating in the electrical appliance receiving cavity 1101a and soaking the electrical components, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the components due to short circuits or moisture.
[0132] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the humidification assembly 100 may also include an anti-dry-burning structure 150 and an anti-interference structure for monitoring the liquid level in the heating chamber 110a to cut off the heating circuit when the liquid level is lower than a preset height.
[0133] When the liquid level in the heating chamber 110a is too low, if heating continues, the heating element 1102 may experience a rapid temperature increase due to dry burning, which could lead to serious safety accidents such as fire. This embodiment eliminates the possibility of fire caused by dry burning by setting an anti-dry burning structure 150, which can detect abnormal liquid levels in a timely manner and cut off the heating circuit, thus providing a reliable safety guarantee for the use environment.
[0134] In some possible embodiments, the anti-dry-burning structure 150 includes a float switch disposed within the heating chamber 110a.
[0135] When the water level in the heating chamber 110a is at its normal height, the float in the float switch will float on the liquid surface due to buoyancy. At this time, the float is connected to the triggering mechanism of the switch through mechanical structures such as connecting rods, so that the switch is in the closed state, the heating circuit is normally connected, and the electric heating element 110 can work normally to heat the water in the heating chamber 110a to generate steam for humidification. As the humidification process proceeds, the water in the heating chamber 110a is continuously consumed, and the liquid level gradually drops. The float will drop synchronously with the liquid level. During the descent, the float gradually drives the triggering mechanism of the switch through mechanisms such as connecting rods. When the liquid level drops to the preset minimum height, the float drops to a certain position and triggers the switch through mechanisms such as connecting rods, changing the switch from the closed state to the open state, thereby cutting off the heating circuit. At this time, the electric heating element 110 stops working and no longer heats the water in the heating chamber 110a, preventing dry burning.
[0136] In this way, the float switch can follow the changes in liquid level in real time. When the liquid level reaches the preset minimum height, it can quickly cut off the heating circuit. The fast response speed can prevent the heating element 1102 from continuing to work in a very short time, effectively preventing the heating chamber 110a from continuing to heat when the liquid level is too low, and minimizing the damage that may be caused to the equipment.
[0137] Of course, the anti-dry-burning structure 150 is not limited to the form of a float switch. For example, it can also be an electrode-type anti-dry-burning structure 150, in which two or more electrodes are set in the heating chamber 110a. When the liquid covers the electrodes, a conductive loop is formed between the electrodes due to the conductivity of the liquid. After the circuit detects this signal, it determines that the liquid level is normal and the heating circuit remains conductive. When the liquid level drops below the electrodes, the conductive loop between the electrodes is broken. After the circuit detects this change, it cuts off the heating circuit, thereby preventing dry burning. Alternatively, a liquid level sensor-type anti-dry-burning structure 150 can be used, employing a dedicated liquid level sensor to monitor the liquid level height in the heating chamber 110a. The liquid level sensor can be an ultrasonic liquid level sensor, a capacitive liquid level sensor, etc. When the liquid level sensor detects that the liquid level is lower than a preset height, it sends a signal to the control circuit. After receiving the signal, the control circuit cuts off the heating circuit.
[0138] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, a descaling agent placement tank 1101c is provided inside the heating chamber 110a. The descaling agent placement tank is used to place the descaling agent to eliminate the scale generated during the heating process.
[0139] Among them, descaling agents can be acidic descaling agents, such as citric acid, acetic acid, etc., or they can be chelating descaling agents, surfactant descaling agents, etc.
[0140] When scale accumulates on the inner wall of the heating chamber 110a, it forms a thermal barrier between the heating element 1102 and the water, hindering the effective transfer of heat. By placing a descaling agent in the descaling agent placement tank 1101c, the effective ingredients are gradually released during the heating process, reacting chemically with the scale to dissolve or soften it, preventing it from adhering and accumulating on the inner wall of the heating chamber 110a. This ensures that the heat generated by the heating element 1102 can be quickly and efficiently transferred to the water, improving heating efficiency, reducing heating time, and lowering energy consumption. Furthermore, it can minimize the frequency of cleaning the heating chamber 1101, improving the user experience.
[0141] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, a second mounting port 11d is provided on the side of the housing 11.
[0142] like Figure 13 As shown, the humidification assembly 100 also includes a liquid storage tank 160, which is movably installed in the second mounting port 11d. The liquid storage tank 160 can move between an open state and a retracted state. When the liquid storage tank 160 is in the open state, water can be added to the liquid storage tank 160. When the liquid storage tank 160 is in the retracted state, the liquid storage tank 160 is connected to the heating chamber 110a.
[0143] When the liquid storage tank 160 is in the open state, the liquid replenishment port of the liquid storage tank 160 is exposed at the second installation port 11d. Users can directly add water to the liquid storage tank 160 through the liquid replenishment port, or they can take it to a water source to add water. The liquid storage tank 160 can be equipped with a handle or handle for easy gripping and carrying. When the liquid storage tank 160 is in the stored state, the liquid storage tank 160 is connected to the heating chamber 110a and automatically supplies water to the heating chamber 110a through gravity or pressure difference. When the water level in the heating chamber 110a drops, the water in the liquid storage tank 160 will automatically flow into the heating chamber 110a to maintain a stable water level in the heating chamber 110a and ensure the continuous humidification process without the need for frequent manual intervention by the user, thus improving the convenience of use.
[0144] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, the liquid storage tank 160 is rotatably mounted on the housing 11 via a rotating structure 160a, so that the liquid storage tank 160 rotates around the rotation axis of the rotating structure 160a to enter and exit the second mounting port 11d.
[0145] Compared to traditional pull-out or other complex operating methods, the rotating structure 160a makes the opening and closing of the liquid storage tank 160 smoother. Users only need to rotate the liquid storage tank 160 to make it rotate around the rotation axis to exit the second installation port 11d and enter the open state. This operation method is labor-saving and simple, reduces the difficulty of operation, and improves the convenience of adding water.
[0146] Furthermore, the rotating design saves more space compared to the liquid tank 160 structure, which requires a large side space for pull-out operation. With limited side space on the housing 11, the rotating structure 160a allows the liquid tank 160 to fit tightly against the housing 11 when not in use, occupying only a small amount of extra space when rotated open. This makes the air conditioner 1 more flexible in placement, better adaptable to different home or office layouts, and improves space utilization efficiency.
[0147] In some possible embodiments, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the first mounting port 11c is located on the front of the housing 11, and a portion of the heating box 1101 protrudes from the first mounting port 11c towards the front of the housing 11.
[0148] The heating chamber 1101 protrudes from the first mounting port 11c, providing more space for the hands to grip and pry when disassembling the heating water tank. Compared to the heating chamber 1101 being completely embedded in the housing 11, the protruding design allows users to easily find a point of leverage and lift the heating water tank slightly, reducing the difficulty of disassembly and improving disassembly efficiency.
[0149] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the air conditioner of this application, and are not intended to limit it. Although the air conditioner of this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. An air conditioner characterized by comprising: The air conditioner comprises: a cabinet, which comprises: a cabinet body, a first installation cavity being formed in the cabinet body, a steam outlet being arranged on the cabinet body, and a first installation opening being arranged on the cabinet body and being communicated with the first installation cavity; a humidifying assembly, which is arranged in the cabinet body and comprises: an electric heating element, which has a heating cavity for containing water and heating the water to evaporate the water to generate steam; a steam water pipe, which is arranged in the cabinet body, one end of the steam water pipe being communicated with the heating cavity and the other end of the steam water pipe being communicated with the steam outlet, the steam being capable of flowing from the heating cavity to the steam outlet through the steam water pipe to be blown to an indoor space through the steam outlet; the electric heating element being detachably installed in the first installation cavity through the first installation opening, the electric heating element comprising: a heating box body, the heating cavity being formed in the heating box body; a heating element, which is arranged in the heating cavity and is used for heating the water in the heating cavity.
2. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein the humidifying assembly further comprises: a heating base, which is arranged at the bottom of the first installation cavity; a plug-in structure, the heating box body and the heating base being electrically connected through the plug-in structure.
3. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein the plug-in structure comprises: a first electric connector, which is arranged at the bottom of the heating box body and is electrically connected with the heating element; a second electric connector, which is arranged on the heating base and corresponds to the first electric connector in the vertical direction, the second electric connector being used for being electrically connected with a power supply.
4. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein the electric heating element further comprises: a first plug-in structure, which is arranged at the bottom of the heating box body; a second plug-in structure, which is arranged on the bottom wall of the first installation cavity, the first plug-in structure and the second plug-in structure being capable of being plugged in the vertical direction to position the heating box body in the first installation cavity.
5. The air conditioner according to claim 4, wherein one of the first plug-in structure and the second plug-in structure is a plug-in protrusion, and the other is a plug-in slot.
6. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein a top of the heating box body is provided with an opening; the electric heating element further comprises: a top cover, which is detachably connected with the heating box body through a clamping structure, the top cover being provided with a connecting opening, the opening being communicated with the connecting opening, the opening being communicated with the steam water pipe, and the steam being capable of entering the steam water pipe through the opening.
7. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein the clamping structure comprises: a resilient clamping hook, which is arranged on an outer peripheral wall of the top cover; a clamping protrusion, which is arranged on an inner wall of the heating box body, when the top cover is installed downward on the heating box body, the resilient clamping hook is clamped below the clamping protrusion to fix the top cover on the heating box body.
8. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein The heating box further forms an electrical appliance containing cavity, the electrical appliance containing cavity is located at the bottom of the heating cavity, the bottom wall of the electrical appliance containing cavity is provided with a first water outlet; The heating base is provided with a second water outlet, one end of the second water outlet is communicated with the first water outlet, and the other end is communicated with the bottom of the first installation cavity.
9. The air conditioner according to claim 1, wherein The heating cavity is provided with a descaling agent placing groove, the descaling agent placing groove is used for placing descaling agent to eliminate scale generated in the heating process.
10. The air conditioner of claim 1, wherein, The side of the cabinet is provided with a second installation opening; The humidifying assembly further comprises a liquid storage tank, the liquid storage tank is movably installed in the second installation opening, the liquid storage tank can be moved between an open state and a storage state, when the liquid storage tank is in the open state, water can be added to the liquid storage tank, when the liquid storage tank is in the storage state, the liquid storage tank is communicated with the heating cavity.
11. The air conditioner according to claim 2, wherein The first installation opening is provided on the front of the cabinet, and part of the heating box protrudes from the first installation opening towards the front of the cabinet.