Air outlet device

Abstract

The utility model provides an air outlet device. The air outlet device comprises a shell, an air inlet and an air outlet, the blade string is arranged in the shell and comprises a plurality of blade units, and the plurality of blade units are connected in series in a relatively rotating manner; and the switching module is arranged to be capable of operating to enable at least one blade unit in the plurality of blade units to rotate relative to other blade units when the blade string is driven and the blade string is not driven so as to switch the arrangement mode of the blade units. According to the air outlet device provided by the utility model, the arrangement mode of the blade units can be changed to provide different air outlet feelings while the whole blade string rotates to sweep air / discharge air, so that the use experience of a user is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model generally relates to automotive internal components, and more specifically to air venting devices. Background Technology

[0002] Cars are typically equipped with air conditioning systems. These systems consist of air vents installed in multiple locations within the car, blowing air into these locations to regulate the interior temperature. Each air vent usually comprises a housing with narrow air outlets and a series of blades within the housing, which control the direction of the airflow. The blade series typically consists of multiple blade units connected in series.

[0003] In some existing technologies, multiple blade units rotate synchronously using axial pressure and toothed locking. When the entire blade string rotates for sweeping / blowing, the blade units remain locked in the toothed lock, preventing simultaneous switching of blade unit arrangement modes. Before switching blade unit arrangement modes, the entire blade string must be stopped from rotating, the axial pressure released, and the toothed locking disengaged to allow multiple blade units to rotate relative to each other for the switching process. This switching method is time-consuming. Furthermore, during mode switching, the toothed structure is prone to producing impact noise when the blade units are subjected to axial or radial frictional forces. All of these factors contribute to a poor user experience. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to solve one or more problems existing in the prior art and to propose an improved air outlet device.

[0005] To this end, the present invention provides an air outlet device, the air outlet device comprising: a housing; a blade string disposed within the housing and comprising a plurality of blade units, the plurality of blade units being connected in series in a rotatable manner; and a switching module, the switching module being operable both when the blade string is driven and when the blade string is not driven, to cause at least one of the plurality of blade units to rotate relative to other blade units to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

[0006] Based on the above technical concept, this utility model may further include any one or more of the following optional embodiments.

[0007] In some alternative embodiments, the air outlet device includes a drive module, which includes a first motor to drive the blade string to rotate.

[0008] In some alternative embodiments, the blade string includes a drive shaft, and the plurality of blade units are sleeved outside the drive shaft and include proximal blade units and distal blade units located at both ends of the blade string; wherein the proximal blade units and the drive shaft are configured to rotate synchronously; wherein the switching module includes a first switching element, the first switching element and the drive shaft being coaxially arranged; wherein the first switching element and the blade string are configured such that: when the first switching element moves axially relative to the drive shaft, it drives at least one of the distal blade units and the drive shaft to rotate relative to the first switching element, such that the distal blade units and the proximal blade units rotate relative to each other to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

[0009] In some alternative embodiments, the first switching element and the blade string are configured such that when the first switching element moves axially relative to the drive shaft, it simultaneously drives the distal blade unit and the drive shaft to rotate relative to the first switching element, and the rotation directions of the distal blade unit and the drive shaft are opposite, thereby causing the distal blade unit and the proximal blade unit to rotate relative to each other to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

[0010] In some alternative embodiments, the distal blade unit and / or the drive shaft includes one of a helical track and a mating portion, and the first switching element includes the other of a helical track and a mating portion, wherein the mating portion is adapted to engage with the helical track and be able to move along the helical track.

[0011] In some alternative embodiments, both the distal blade unit and the drive shaft include helical tracks, the first switching element includes a mating portion, and the helical tracks of the distal blade unit and the drive shaft are arranged in opposite directions, so that when the first switching element moves axially relative to the drive shaft, it simultaneously drives the distal blade unit and the drive shaft to rotate in opposite directions relative to the first switching element.

[0012] In some alternative embodiments, the distal blade unit includes a first hollow shaft sleeved outside the drive shaft, the first hollow shaft including a first helical trajectory, wherein the first switching element is sleeved outside the first hollow shaft, and / or, the drive shaft includes a second hollow shaft, the second hollow shaft including a second helical trajectory, wherein the first switching element is sleeved outside the second hollow shaft.

[0013] In some alternative embodiments, the blade string includes at least one limiting portion to restrict the axial movement of the plurality of blade units relative to the drive shaft, and / or the first switching element is axially movably mounted to the drive shaft.

[0014] In some alternative embodiments, the proximal blade unit is fixedly connected to the drive shaft.

[0015] In some alternative embodiments, the switching module further includes a second switching element, which is sleeved outside the first switching element and axially positioned relative to the first switching element. The first switching element is rotatable relative to the second switching element, and the second switching element is axially movable relative to the drive shaft.

[0016] In some alternative embodiments, the housing includes a first bracket, wherein the second switching element is axially movable and mounted to the first bracket, and the distal blade unit is rotatably mounted to the first bracket and axially positioned relative to the first bracket.

[0017] In some alternative embodiments, the switching module is axially movable relative to the drive shaft between a first axial position and a second axial position to correspondingly switch the blade string between a first arrangement pattern and a second arrangement pattern; wherein adjacent two blade units among the plurality of blade units are connected by keys and keyways, wherein each keyway is configured to allow circumferential movement of a corresponding key within it between a first circumferential position and a second circumferential position, and wherein the blade string is in the first arrangement pattern when each key is in the first circumferential position, and in the second arrangement pattern when each key is in the second circumferential position.

[0018] In some alternative embodiments, each blade unit includes a rotating shaft sleeved on the drive shaft and a blade disposed on the rotating shaft and arranged at an angle to the rotating shaft, and the rotating shafts of the plurality of blade units are connected in series axially.

[0019] The switching module of the air outlet device according to this utility model can be operated to switch the blade unit arrangement mode when the blade string is driven and when the blade string is not driven. This allows the air outlet device to change the blade unit arrangement mode to provide different air outlet sensations while the blade string rotates as a whole to perform sweeping / air outlet. This solves the problem of interruption of sweeping / air outlet when changing the blade unit arrangement mode in the prior art and improves the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Other features and advantages of this utility model will be better understood through the following detailed description of optional embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals identify the same or similar parts, wherein:

[0021] Figure 1A and Figure 1B These are a perspective view and a partial sectional view of a vehicle including an air outlet device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present utility model;

[0023] Figure 2B This is another perspective view of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present utility model, wherein the upper housing of the air outlet device is omitted;

[0024] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 4A This is a perspective view of the blade string of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present utility model;

[0026] Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the air outlet device and the switching module assembled together according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of the first switching element of the switching module of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present utility model;

[0028] Figure 5B and Figure 5C These are, respectively, a front view and a side view of the first switching element of the switching module of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present utility model;

[0029] Figure 6A and Figure 6B These are, respectively, a perspective view and a side view of the second switching element of the switching module of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of this utility model;

[0030] Figure 7A This is a perspective view of the first hollow shaft of the distal blade unit of the blade string of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 7B This is a perspective view of the first support of the housing of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present utility model;

[0032] Figure 7C This is a perspective view of the drive shaft of the blade string of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 8A This is a partial cross-sectional view of the air outlet device at the blade string according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0035] Figure 9A and Figure 9B These are top views of the air outlet device blade string and the switching module according to the first embodiment of the present invention, when the blade string is in the first arrangement mode and the second arrangement mode, respectively.

[0036] Figure 10A This is a partial schematic diagram of an air outlet device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing the blade string, switching module, drive unit, and upper housing of the air outlet device;

[0037] Figure 10B This is another partial schematic diagram of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present utility model, in which the blade string, switching module and drive unit of the air outlet device are shown;

[0038] Figure 11A This is a perspective view of the swing arm of the drive unit of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 11B and Figure 11C These are perspective views of the sliding component of the drive unit of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, viewed from different angles.

[0040] Figure 12A and Figure 12B These are perspective views of the upper housing of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of this utility model, viewed from different angles.

[0041] Figure 13A This is a top view of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention when the blade string is arranged in the first arrangement mode;

[0042] Figure 13B and Figure 13C These are top and bottom views of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, when the blade string, switching module and drive unit are arranged in the first arrangement mode of the blade string.

[0043] Figure 14A This is a top view of the air outlet device according to the first embodiment of the present invention when the blade string is arranged in the second arrangement mode;

[0044] Figure 14B and Figure 14C These are top and bottom views of the air outlet device, the blade string, the switching module, and the drive unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention, when the blade string is in the second arrangement mode.

[0045] Figure 15A and Figure 15B A perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the blade string, switching module and first bracket of the air outlet device according to the second embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively.

[0046] Figure 16 A partial exploded view of an air outlet device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown, in which a blade string, a switching module and a first bracket are shown.

[0047] Figure 17 A side view of the blade string of the air outlet device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0048] Figure 18A A perspective view of the drive shaft of the blade string of the air outlet device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0049] Figure 18B An exploded view of the drive shaft of the blade string of the air outlet device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The implementation and use of the embodiments are discussed in detail below. However, it should be understood that the specific embodiments discussed are merely illustrative of specific ways of implementing and using this utility model, and are not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. In the description, the structural positions of the various components, such as upper, lower, top, bottom, etc., are not absolute, but relative. These orientations are appropriate when the various components are arranged as shown in the figures, but these orientations change accordingly when the positions of the various components in the figures change.

[0051] In this application, the axial direction of the rod-shaped or ring-shaped component refers to the direction of the central axis of the component, the circumferential direction of the rod-shaped or ring-shaped component refers to the direction along the circumference of the component, and the radial direction of the rod-shaped or ring-shaped component refers to the direction that passes through the central axis of the component and is perpendicular to the axial direction of the component.

[0052] In this application, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Unless otherwise expressly specified, the terms "installed," "connected," "joined," "fixed," etc., 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 direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0053] like Figure 1A and Figure 1BAs shown, multiple air vents 10 can be installed inside the vehicle V. The vehicle V is also equipped with an air conditioning system (not shown), and the air vents 10 are connected to the air conditioning system and adjust the airflow effect of the air conditioning system to improve passenger comfort. The air vents 10 can be installed in multiple locations inside the vehicle, such as on the instrument panel IP, center console C, pillar P, and headliner R.

[0054] First Embodiment

[0055] Figures 2A to 14C The air outlet device 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is shown, along with its components and working principle.

[0056] Reference Figures 2A to 4B The air outlet device 10 may include a housing 100, a blade string 200, a switching module 400, and a drive unit 500. The blade string 200 is disposed within the housing 100 and includes multiple blade units 202 connected in series in a rotatable manner. The switching module 400 is configured to operate both when the blade string 200 is driven and when it is not driven, causing at least one blade unit among the multiple blade units 202 to rotate relative to other blade units to switch the blade unit arrangement mode. The drive unit 500 is configured to drive the switching module 400 to operate. In this application, "driven" means that the blade string is driven to rotate as a whole at a predetermined speed to sweep the airflow direction of the air outlet device; when the blade string is not driven, the air outlet device does not emit air or the airflow direction is fixed.

[0057] The switching module 400 of the aforementioned air outlet device 10 can operate to switch the blade unit arrangement mode both when the blade string 200 is driven to rotate and when the blade string 200 is not driven. This allows the air outlet device 10 to change the blade unit arrangement mode to switch between different air outlet modes while the blade string 200 rotates as a whole to perform sweeping / air outlet. This overcomes the problem of interruption of sweeping / air outlet when changing the blade unit arrangement mode in the prior art and improves the user experience.

[0058] Reference Figures 2A to 4B as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B The air outlet device 10 may further include a drive module 300. The drive module 300 may include a first motor 302. The first motor 302 is used to drive the blade string 200 to rotate at a predetermined speed, so that the air outlet device 10 sweeps the air. The switching module 400 is configured to operate both when the first motor 302 is in an active state and when it is not in an active state, so that at least one blade unit among the plurality of blade units 202 rotates relative to other blade units to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the blade string 200 may include a drive shaft 204. Multiple blade units 202 may be sleeved around the drive shaft 204 and include proximal blade units 202A and distal blade units 202B located at both ends of the blade string 200. The drive module 300 can drive the proximal blade units 202A and the drive shaft 204 to rotate synchronously. The switching module 400 may include a first switching element 402. The first switching element 402 and the drive shaft 204 may be coaxially arranged and non-rotatably connected to each other, such that the first switching element 402, the drive shaft 204, and the proximal blade units 202A are always circumferentially synchronized (neither rotating nor rotating synchronously). The first switching element 402 and the blade string 200 may be configured such that: when the first switching element 402 moves axially relative to the drive shaft 204, it drives the distal blade unit 202B to rotate relative to the first switching element 402, thereby causing the distal blade unit 202B to rotate relative to the proximal blade unit 202A to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

[0060] In this application, the "proximal blade unit" is the blade unit closest to the drive module 300, and the "distal blade unit" is the blade unit furthest from the drive module 300. In this application, when describing the relative positional relationship between the blade units 202 of the blade string 200, the term "upstream" refers to the direction toward the drive module 300; the term "downstream" refers to the direction opposite to "upstream." In this application, unless otherwise stated, the term "axial" refers to the direction of the central axis / rotation axis of the drive shaft 204 or the direction parallel to the central axis / rotation axis of the drive shaft 204.

[0061] The configuration of the first switching element 402 and the blade string 200 is such that, regardless of whether the first motor 302 is in an operating state or not (in other words, regardless of whether the proximal blade unit 202A and the drive shaft 204 are driven to rotate by the first motor 302), as long as the first switching element 402 is axially moved relative to the drive shaft 204 to rotate the distal blade unit 202B relative to the first switching element 402, the distal blade unit 202B can be rotated relative to the proximal blade unit 202A, thereby changing the arrangement pattern of the blade units 202.

[0062] Reference Figures 2A to 4B , Figure 7C as well as Figure 9A and Figure 9B The housing 100 may include an upper housing 102 and a lower housing 104. The upper housing 102 and the lower housing 104 may together define an air inlet 106 for gas to flow into the interior of the air outlet device 10 and an air outlet 108 for airflow to flow out of the interior of the air outlet device 10. The blade string 200 may be arranged along the extension direction of the air outlet 108.

[0063] The drive module 300 may further include a first transmission gear 304. The first motor 302 can drive the first transmission gear 304, and further drive the blade string 200 to rotate as a whole by means of the first transmission gear 304. Optionally, the first motor 302 is an electric motor.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the blade string 200 may include, in addition to the proximal blade unit 202A and the distal blade unit 202B, at least one intermediate blade unit 202C located between the proximal blade unit 202A and the distal blade unit 202B. Each blade unit 202 of the blade string 200 may include a rotating shaft 206 sleeved on the drive shaft 204 and a blade 208 disposed on the rotating shaft 206 and arranged at an angle to the rotating shaft 206. The rotating shafts 206 of these blade units 202 are sequentially connected in series axially so that multiple blade units 202 form a blade string 200.

[0065] The blade string 200 may include at least one limiting portion 210, 212 to restrict / prevent axial movement of the plurality of blade units 202 relative to the drive shaft 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive shaft 204 may include a rod-shaped drive shaft body 214 and a shoulder 210 disposed at one axial end of the drive shaft body 214. The drive shaft body 214 is provided with an annular groove 218 near another axial end of the drive shaft body 214. The blade string 200 may also include a retaining ring 212, which can engage with the annular groove 218 on the drive shaft 204. The shoulder 210 and the retaining ring 212 are formed as limiting portions of the blade string 200 to restrict axial movement of the plurality of blade units 202 relative to the drive shaft 204. In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of the proximal blade unit 202A, all the intermediate blade units 202C, and the distal blade unit 202B are axially constrained between the shoulder 210 and the retaining ring 212.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, such as Figure 3 , Figure 9A and Figure 9BAs shown, adjacent blade units 202 are rotatably connected relative to each other via a key 220 and a keyway 222. One end of the shaft 206 of the proximal blade unit 202A is provided with a key 220, both ends of the shaft 206 of the intermediate blade unit 202C are provided with a keyway 222 and a key 220, respectively, and one end of the shaft 206 of the distal blade unit 202B is provided with a keyway 222. The key 220 and keyway 222 of each intermediate blade unit 202C engage with the keyway 222 and key 220 of the adjacent blade unit, respectively, so that the multiple blade units 202 are connected in series to form a blade string 200. It is conceivable that in some other embodiments not shown, one end of the shaft of the proximal blade unit is provided with a keyway, both ends of the shaft of the intermediate blade unit are provided with a key and a keyway, and one end of the shaft of the distal blade unit is provided with a key.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, each keyway 222 is configured to allow a corresponding key 220 to be positioned therein in a first circumferential position (e.g., ...). Figure 9A (as shown) and the second circumferential position (as shown) Figure 9B The circumferential movement between the blades (as shown) allows adjacent blade units 202 to rotate relative to each other, thereby changing the positional relationship (angle relationship) between adjacent blades 208 and thus changing the airflow feel of the air outlet device 10. In the illustrated embodiment, each keyway 222 may include a first side 224 and a second side 226 opposite to each other. When the key 220 abuts against the first side 224 of the corresponding keyway 222, it is in the first circumferential position, such as... Figure 9A As shown, when key 220 abuts against the second side 226 of the corresponding keyway 222, it is in the second circumferential position, as... Figure 9A As shown. In the illustrated embodiment, with Figure 9A For example, from Figure 9A When viewed from the right to the left, the first side 224 is located downstream of the second side 226 in the counterclockwise direction.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the axial end face 228 of the shaft 206 of each blade unit 202 adjacent to the adjacent blade unit 202 is a flat surface perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft 206. The axial end face 228 of the shaft 206 of each of the proximal blade unit 202A and the distal blade unit 202B adjacent to the adjacent intermediate blade unit 202C is a flat surface perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft 206. The two axial end faces 228 of the shaft 206 of each intermediate blade unit 202C adjacent to the two adjacent blade units 202 are both flat surfaces perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft 206, allowing the multiple blade units 202 of the blade string 200 to rotate smoothly relative to each other.

[0069] Reference Figures 2A to 4BIn the illustrated embodiment, the proximal blade unit 202A can be fixedly connected to the drive shaft 204 in the circumferential direction. The proximal blade unit 202A may include a proximal blade unit body 230 and a hollow drive section 232 coaxially arranged and connected to each other. The proximal blade unit body 230 may be sleeved on the hollow drive section 232. The proximal blade unit body 230 may include a rotating shaft 206 and blades 208 inclined relative to the rotating shaft 206. The hollow drive section 232 may be rotatably mounted to the housing 100 at an annular groove 234 on its outer side and axially positioned relative to the housing 100. The hollow drive section 232 may include a second drive gear 236 and an axial rib 238 disposed on its outer side, and a keyway 240 disposed inside it. The second transmission gear 236 can mesh with the first transmission gear 304, allowing the first motor 302 of the drive module 300 to drive the first transmission gear 304, thereby driving the proximal blade unit 202A, multiple intermediate blade units 202C, and distal blade unit 202B to rotate as a whole. The axial rib 238 of the hollow transmission section 232 can engage with the axial groove 242 inside the rotating shaft 206, so that the hollow transmission section 232 is non-rotatably connected to the proximal blade unit body 230. The engagement keyway 240 of the hollow transmission section 232 can engage with the engagement key 241 at the end of the transmission shaft 204, so that the hollow transmission section 232 is non-rotatably connected to the transmission shaft 204. Thus, the transmission shaft 204 is non-rotatably connected to the proximal blade unit 202A, and the first motor 302 of the drive module 300 can drive the proximal blade unit 202A and the transmission shaft 204 to rotate synchronously by means of the first transmission gear 304. It is conceivable that, in some other embodiments not shown, the proximal blade unit body and the hollow transmission part can be formed as a single piece. In other embodiments not shown, the proximal blade unit and the transmission shaft may not be connected, but are both directly driven by the drive module to rotate synchronously.

[0070] Reference Figures 3 to 5C as well as Figures 7A to 8B In the illustrated embodiment, the distal blade unit 202B may include a distal blade unit body 244 and a first hollow shaft 246 that are axially adjacent and detachably connected to each other. The distal blade unit body 244 may include a rotating shaft 206 and blades 208 disposed on the rotating shaft 206 and inclined relative to the rotating shaft 206. The first hollow shaft 246 may include one or more claws 248, and correspondingly, the rotating shaft 206 of the distal blade unit body 244 is provided with one or more locking interfaces 250, each claw 248 being capable of engaging with a corresponding locking interface 250 to connect the first hollow shaft 246 and the distal blade unit body 244 to each other.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the first hollow shaft 246 of the distal blade unit 202B includes a first helical track 252. The first helical track 252 may be in the form of a helical groove. The first switching element 402 may be in the form of an annular member and sleeved on the first hollow shaft 246. The first switching element 402 defines a receiving hole 403 through which the first hollow shaft 246 passes. The first switching element 402 may include a mating portion 405. The mating portion 405 may be in the form of a pin. The mating portion 405 is adapted to mate with or be embedded in the first helical track 252 and is movable along the first helical track 252. Thus, when the first switching element 402 moves axially relative to the drive shaft 204 and then axially relative to the distal blade unit 202B, the mating portion 405 is able to move along the first helical track 252 and drive the distal blade unit 202B to rotate relative to the first switching element 402, and then relative to the proximal blade unit 202A. In the illustrated embodiment, the first switching element 402 may include two mating portions 405 disposed opposite to each other, so that the relative movement between the first switching element 402 and the distal blade unit 202B is smoother.

[0072] It is conceivable that, in some embodiments not shown, the mating part can be disposed on the first hollow shaft, and the first helical trajectory can be disposed on the first switching element. It is conceivable that, in some embodiments not shown, the first helical trajectory can be in the form of a helical surface. It is conceivable that, in some embodiments not shown, the first switching element can be in the form of a tubular component or other suitable form. It is conceivable that, in some embodiments not shown, the first hollow shaft can be sleeved outside the first switching element. It is also conceivable that, in some embodiments not shown, the conversion from axial motion to circumferential motion (rotational motion) between the first switching element and the distal blade unit can be achieved not through the engagement of a helical groove and a pin, but rather using other structures such as a ball screw to achieve the conversion from axial motion to circumferential motion (rotational motion).

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, housing 100 may further include a first support 110. The first support 110 may be fixed, for example, to the upper housing 102 and the lower housing 104 by snap-fit. The distal blade unit 202B is rotatably mounted to the first support 110 and axially positioned relative to the first support 110. One of the distal blade unit 202B and the first support 110 may include a mating groove 256, and the other may include a mating protrusion 112. At least one of the mating groove 256 and the mating protrusion 112 extends circumferentially. The mating groove 256 engages with the mating protrusion 112 to restrict relative axial movement between the distal blade unit 202B and the first support 110 and to allow relative rotation between the distal blade unit 202B and the first support 110.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the first support 110 defines a through-hole 114, in which the distal blade unit 202B is adapted to be mounted. A mating protrusion 112 is provided on the inner periphery of the through-hole 114 and extends circumferentially into the form of annular protrusions. A mating groove 256 is defined between the distal blade unit body 244 and the first hollow shaft 246. The mating groove 256 extends circumferentially into the form of annular grooves. In the illustrated embodiment, there is one mating protrusion 112 and one mating groove 256. The detachable structure of the distal blade unit 202B facilitates mounting the distal blade unit 202B to the first support 110 via the mating protrusion 112 and the mating groove 256.

[0075] It is conceivable that, in some embodiments not shown, the positions of the mating protrusion and the mating groove can be interchanged; in some embodiments not shown, the mating protrusion and the mating groove can have other suitable structures, for example, the mating protrusion can be in the form of a pin or an arcuate rib and the mating groove can be in the form of an annular groove; in some embodiments not shown, the mating protrusion and the mating groove can also have other suitable numbers; in some embodiments not shown, the distal blade unit can also be formed as a single piece, for example, when the mating protrusion is provided on the distal blade unit; in some embodiments not shown, the distal blade unit can also be mounted directly on the upper housing and / or the lower housing instead of on the first support.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the first switching element 402 may be non-rotatably sleeved on the drive shaft 204 and is axially movable relative to the drive shaft 204. One of the first switching element 402 and the drive shaft 204 may include an engagement recess 404, and the other may include an engagement protrusion 258. At least one of the engagement recess 404 and the engagement protrusion 258 extends axially. The engagement recess 404 is adapted to engage with the engagement protrusion 258 to prevent / limit relative rotation of the first switching element 402 with the drive shaft 204 and to guide relative axial movement of the first switching element 402 with the drive shaft 204.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the first switching element 402 and the proximal blade unit 202A are respectively disposed at two opposite longitudinal ends of the drive shaft 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging protrusion 258 extends axially from the shoulder 210 of the drive shaft 204 into an arm-like structure and is located outside the first hollow shaft 246 of the distal blade unit 202B. The engaging recess 404 is disposed on the inner periphery of the first switching element 402 and extends axially. In the illustrated embodiment, there are two engaging protrusions 258 and two engaging recesses 404 to guide the first switching element 402 to move smoothly relative to the drive shaft 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the first switching element 402 includes a first annular element 406 and a second annular element 408 detachably connected to the first annular element 406. A mating portion 405 for engaging with the first helical trajectory 252 and an engaging recess 404 for engaging with the engaging protrusion 258 are disposed on the inner periphery of the first annular element 406.

[0078] It is conceivable that, in some embodiments not shown, the positions of the engagement protrusion and engagement recess may be interchanged; in some embodiments not shown, the engagement protrusion and engagement recess may have other suitable configurations, for example, the engagement protrusion may be in the form of a pin and the engagement recess may be in the form of an axial recess; in some embodiments not shown, the first switching element may also be formed as a single piece; in some embodiments not shown, the engagement protrusion and engagement recess may also have other suitable numbers.

[0079] Reference Figure 3 as well as Figures 4A to 7B In the illustrated embodiment, the switching module 400 further includes a second switching element 410. The second switching element 410 is sleeved outside the first switching element 402 and axially positioned relative to the first switching element 402. The first switching element 402 is rotatable relative to the second switching element, and the second switching element 410 can be driven by the drive unit 500 to move axially relative to the drive shaft 204.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the second switching element 410 is in the form of an annular member. One of the first switching element 402 and the second switching element 410 includes a mating recess 412, and the other includes a mating protrusion 414. At least one of the mating recess 412 and the mating protrusion 414 extends circumferentially. The mating recess 412 and the mating protrusion 414 engage / fit with each other to restrict the relative axial movement of the first switching element 402 and the second switching element 410, thereby enabling the second switching element 410 to drive the first switching element 402 to move synchronously axially, and allowing the first switching element 402 to rotate relative to the second switching element 410, thereby allowing the first switching element 402 to rotate within the second switching element 410 along with the blade string 200.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the mating recess 412 is disposed on the outer periphery of the first switching element 402 and extends circumferentially into the form of annular recess. The mating protrusion 414 is disposed on the inner periphery of the second switching element 410 and extends circumferentially into the form of annular protrusion. There is one mating protrusion 414 and one mating recess 412. The mating recess 412 is defined between the first annular element 406 and the second annular element 408 of the first switching element 402. The detachable structure of the first switching element 402 facilitates the assembly of the first switching element 402 and the second switching element 410 together via the mating protrusion 414 and the mating recess 412. The mating protrusion 414 and the mating recess 412 function similarly to the mating protrusion 112 and the mating groove 256 described above, and therefore can have many variations like the mating protrusion 112 and the mating groove 256, which will not be elaborated here.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the second switching element 410 is axially movably mounted to the first bracket 110. One of the second switching element 410 and the first bracket 110 includes an engagement groove 416, and the other includes an engagement protrusion 116. At least one of the engagement groove 416 and the engagement protrusion 116 extends axially. The engagement groove 416 is adapted to engage with the engagement protrusion 116 to prevent / limit relative rotation of the second switching element 410 with respect to the first bracket 110 and to guide relative axial movement of the second switching element 410 with respect to the first bracket 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement protrusion 116 is disposed on the first bracket 110 and extends axially into an arm-like structure, and the engagement groove 416 is disposed on the second switching element 410 and extends axially. There are two engagement protrusions 116 and two engagement grooves 416. The engaging protrusion 116 and engaging groove 416 function similarly to the engaging protrusion 258 and engaging recess 404 described above, and therefore can have many variations like the engaging protrusion 258 and engaging recess 404, which will not be described in detail here. It is conceivable that in some other embodiments not shown, the second switching element may not be mounted on the first bracket, but may be directly mounted on the upper housing and / or lower housing.

[0083] Reference Figure 3 as well as Figures 8A to 9B When switching the blade unit arrangement mode, the second switching element 410 can be axially moved relative to the first support 110, thereby driving the first switching element 402 to move axially relative to the drive shaft 204, and thus driving the distal blade unit 202B to rotate relative to the first switching element 402 and the proximal blade unit 202A. In the illustrated embodiment, the switching module 400 (more specifically, the first switching element 402 and the second switching element 410) can move relative to the drive shaft 204. Figure 9A The first axial position shown is... Figure 9BAxial movement between the second axial positions shown is used to rotate the distal blade unit 202B relative to the proximal blade unit 202A, thereby correspondingly causing the blade string 200 to move in... Figure 9A The first permutation pattern shown is the same as Figure 9B Switch between the second arrangement modes shown.

[0084] When the switching module 400 is in Figure 9A In the first axial position shown, each key of all keys 220 in the blade string 200 is in a first circumferential position abutting against the first side 224 of the corresponding keyway 222, such that the blade string 200 / multiple blade units 202 are in a first arrangement pattern. At this time, the blades 208 of the multiple blade units 202 are parallel to each other, such that the air blown from the adjacent blades 208 of the air outlet device 10 is substantially parallel to each other, so as to provide parallel airflow.

[0085] When the switching module 400 is held in the first axial position, the distal blade unit 202B, the first switching element 402, the drive shaft 204, and the proximal blade unit 202A are circumferentially synchronized and can only rotate synchronously. Moreover, each key 220 abuts against the first side 224 of the corresponding keyway 222. Therefore, all blade units 202 of the blade string 200 can only rotate synchronously, so that when the first motor 302 drives the proximal blade unit 202A, the blade string 200 of the air outlet device 10 can rotate synchronously as a whole to stably provide parallel air.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the first axial position is closer to the blade 208 than the second axial position. The direction of rotation of the first helical trajectory 252 is configured such that when the switching module 400 moves from the first axial position to the second axial position, the distal blade unit 202B rotates counterclockwise relative to the first switching element 402 (from...). Figure 9B (counterclockwise when viewed from right to left) to allow the keyway 222 of the distal blade unit 202B to move relative to the key 220 of the adjacent intermediate blade unit 202C in a circumferential direction, thereby allowing the distal blade unit 202B to rotate relative to the adjacent intermediate blade unit 202C.

[0087] Specifically, when switching module 400 from Figure 9A The first axial position in Figure 9BWhen the second axial position is moved, the distal blade unit 202B rotates counterclockwise relative to the adjacent intermediate blade unit 202C until the second side 226 of the keyway 222 of the distal blade unit 202B abuts against the key 220 of the adjacent intermediate blade unit 202C. Afterward, the distal blade unit 202B will drive the intermediate blade unit 202C to rotate counterclockwise synchronously, causing the intermediate blade unit 202C to also rotate counterclockwise relative to its upstream adjacent intermediate blade unit 202C. When the second side 226 of the keyway 222 of the intermediate blade unit 202C abuts against the key 220 of its upstream adjacent intermediate blade unit 202C, the intermediate blade unit 202C will rotate synchronously with its upstream adjacent intermediate blade unit 202C, and so on. When the switching module 400 moves to... Figure 9B In the second axial position shown, the second side 226 of all keyways 222 abuts against the corresponding key 220; in other words, each key 220 is in the second circumferential position, causing the blade string 200 / multiple blade units 202 to be arranged in a second pattern. At this time, the blades 208 of the multiple blade units 202 are not parallel to each other, causing the airflow direction between adjacent blades 208 of the air outlet device 10 to vary, thus providing natural wind.

[0088] It is conceivable that in other embodiments not shown, the first arrangement pattern and the second arrangement pattern may also be other blade unit arrangement patterns, as long as the first arrangement pattern and the second arrangement pattern are different.

[0089] When the switching module 400 is held in the second axial position, the distal blade unit 202B, the first switching element 402, the drive shaft 204, and the proximal blade unit 202A are circumferentially synchronized and can only rotate synchronously. Moreover, each key 220 abuts against the second side 226 of the adjacent keyway 222. Therefore, all blade units 202 of the blade string 200 can also only rotate synchronously. This allows the blade string 200 of the air outlet device 10 to rotate synchronously as a whole when the first motor 302 drives the proximal blade unit 202A to stably provide natural wind.

[0090] Thus, by changing the axial position of the switching module 400, the arrangement of the blade units can be directly altered to obtain different wind sensations. This switching method requires a short switching time and can be performed synchronously while the first motor 302 is operating, providing a better user experience.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the switching module 400 includes a first switching element 402 and a second switching element 410. It is conceivable that in other embodiments, the switching module may also include a first switching element capable of axial movement and rotation, but without the second switching element.

[0092] Reference Figures 2A to 3 as well as Figures 10A to 14C The drive unit 500 of the air outlet device 10 is used to drive the switching module 400 relative to the drive shaft 204 at a first axial position (e.g., Figures 13A to 13C (as shown) and the second axial position (as shown) Figures 14A to 14C Axial movement between (shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit 500 is used to directly drive the second switching element 410 axially, thereby driving the first switching element 402 axially. It is conceivable that in other embodiments not shown, such as when the switching module includes the first switching element but not the second switching element, the drive unit can be used to directly drive the first switching element axially.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit 500 may include a first shape memory alloy component 502 and a second shape memory alloy component 504. The drive unit 500 drives the switching module 400 to move axially to a first axial position when a temperature change in the first shape memory alloy component 502 causes a dimensional change, and drives the switching module 400 to move axially to a second axial position when a temperature change in the second shape memory alloy component 504 causes a dimensional change. Optionally, the first shape memory alloy component 502 and the second shape memory alloy component 504 may be configured to shrink in size upon heating. Optionally, the first shape memory alloy component 502 and the second shape memory alloy component 504 may be made of alloys with shape memory effect, such as copper-aluminum-nickel alloys or nickel-titanium alloys. The drive unit 500 may also include a heating circuit (not shown) for energizing the first shape memory alloy component 502 and the second shape memory alloy component 504 to heat them. In the illustrated embodiment, both the first shape memory alloy component 502 and the second shape memory alloy component 504 may be in the form of shape memory alloy wires and extend substantially axially. These shape memory alloy wires may be configured to shorten upon heating and maintain a constant length when cooled and not subjected to external force. It is conceivable that, in other embodiments not shown, the first shape memory alloy component and the second shape memory alloy component may also have other shapes, for example, they may be in the form of strips.

[0094] The drive unit 500 may also include a sliding member 506, which is axially slidably mounted to the housing 100 and connected to the switching module 400. The first shape memory alloy member 502 and the second shape memory alloy member 504 are both connected to the sliding member 506 and are adapted to pull the sliding member 506 in different directions when the temperature changes cause dimensional changes, so that the sliding member 506 slides axially in opposite directions and drives the switching module 400 to move axially in opposite directions.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the sliding member 506 is in the form of a slide bar. Figure 11CAs shown, the sliding component 506 may include a first fastening hole 508 (left side) and a second fastening hole 510 (right side) at its bottom, the first fastening hole 508 and the second fastening hole 510 being located on opposite sides / left and right sides of the sliding component 506, respectively. Figure 12A and Figure 12B As shown, the upper housing 102 may include an axially extending groove 118. The upper housing 102 may have a third fastening hole 120 (left side) and a fourth fastening hole 122 (right side) on its opposite sides / left and right sides.

[0096] The right end of the first shape memory alloy component 502 can be installed into the fourth fastening hole 122 on the right side of the upper housing 102, and the left end can be installed into the first fastening hole 508 on the left side of the sliding component 506. This allows the first shape memory alloy component 502 to shorten its length when energized and heated, pulling the sliding component 506 to the right, thus causing the sliding component 506 to move axially to the right. The left end of the second shape memory alloy component 504 can be installed into the third fastening hole 120 on the left side of the upper housing 102, and the right end can be installed into the second fastening hole 510 on the right side of the sliding component 506. This allows the second shape memory alloy component 504 to shorten its length when energized and heated, pulling the sliding component 506 to the left, thus causing the sliding component 506 to move axially to the left. The heating circuit can energize the first shape memory alloy component 502 and de-energize the second shape memory alloy component 504, causing the sliding component 506 to move axially to the right, and can also energize the second shape memory alloy component 504 and de-energize the first shape memory alloy component 502, causing the sliding component 506 to move axially to the left.

[0097] It is conceivable that in other embodiments not shown, the drive unit may not include the sliding component, but the first and second memory alloy components may be directly connected to the switching module to directly drive the axial movement of the switching module.

[0098] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit 500 may further include a stroke amplification mechanism 512 connecting the sliding member 506 and the switching module 400. The stroke amplification mechanism 512 is configured such that the axial travel of the switching module 400 is greater than the axial travel of the sliding member 506. This is advantageous when the axial travel of the sliding member 506 caused by the deformation of the first shape memory alloy member 502 and the second shape memory alloy member 504 is insufficient to meet the axial travel requirement of the switching module 400. It is conceivable that if the axial travel of the sliding member caused by the deformation of the first and second shape memory alloy members is sufficient to meet the axial travel requirement of the switching module, the stroke amplification mechanism may not be necessary.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the stroke amplification mechanism 512 includes a swing arm 514. The swing arm 514 includes a first connecting portion 516, a second connecting portion 518, and a third connecting portion 520. The swing arm 514 is pivotally connected to the housing 100 at the first connecting portion 516 and connected to the sliding member 506 and the second switching element 410 of the switching module 400 at the second connecting portion 518 and the third connecting portion 520, respectively. The swing arm 514, and the second connecting portion 518 and the third connecting portion 520 on the swing arm 514, are pivotable about the pivot axis of the first connecting portion 516 / swing arm 514. The sliding member 506 can cause the swing arm 514 to swing, and thus, via the swing arm 514, cause the switching module 400 to move axially.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the first connecting portion 516 is in the form of a pin and is adapted to rotatably engage with the shaft hole 124 on the upper housing 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the swing arm 514 includes two first connecting portions 516 disposed on opposite sides thereon.

[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, the swing arm 514 includes two second connecting portions 518 aligned with each other and both in the form of orifices. Correspondingly, the sliding member 506 may include a fourth connecting portion 524 in the form of an orifice. The stroke amplification mechanism 512 may also include a connecting shaft 526 parallel to the pivot axis of the swing arm 514. The connecting shaft 526 may pass through the two second connecting portions 518 and the fourth connecting portion 524 to connect the sliding member 506 to the swing arm 514, so that the axial movement of the sliding member 506 can drive the swing arm 514 to swing. The connecting shaft 526 may slidably engage with the fourth connecting portion 524 to slide within the fourth connecting portion 524 during the swinging of the swing arm 514, thereby preventing the swing arm 514 from jamming.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, the third connecting portion 520 may be in the form of an elongated oval opening. Correspondingly, the second switching element 410 may include an actuating portion 418 in the form of a protruding post. The actuating portion 418 may slidably engage with the third connecting portion 520 to restrict the axial movement of the actuating portion 418 relative to the third connecting portion 520. This allows the swing arm 514 to drive the second switching element 410 to move axially when it swings, and allows the actuating portion 418 to slide within the third connecting portion 520 during the swing of the swing arm 514, thereby preventing the swing arm 514 from jamming. The swing arm 514 may include two third connecting portions 520 aligned with each other, and correspondingly, the second switching element 410 may include two actuating portions 418.

[0103] It is conceivable that the structures of the first, second, third, and fourth connecting portions described above are merely examples and not limitations. In other embodiments, not shown, these connecting portions may also have other suitable constructions. For example, in other embodiments, not shown, the first connecting portion may be a shaft hole and is adapted to rotatably engage with a pin on the upper housing; in other embodiments, not shown, the third connecting portion may be in the form of a protruding post, and the second switching element may include an actuating portion in the form of an orifice.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, the pivot radius of the third connecting portion 520 about the first connecting portion 516 is greater than the pivot radius of the second connecting portion 518 about the first connecting portion 516, thereby amplifying the stroke through the swing of the swing arm 514. In the illustrated embodiment, the second connecting portion 518 and the third connecting portion 520 are located on the same side of the first connecting portion 516, so that the sliding member 506 can drive the second switching element 410 to move axially in the same direction. It is conceivable that in other embodiments not shown, the second connecting portion and the third connecting portion may also be located on opposite sides of the first connecting portion, so that the sliding member can drive the second switching element to move axially in the direction opposite to the sliding direction of the sliding member through the swing arm. The stroke amplification mechanism including the swing arm described above has a simple structure and occupies less space. It is also conceivable that in other embodiments not shown, the stroke amplification mechanism may have other suitable structures, such as a multi-bar stroke amplification mechanism, a rack and pinion stroke amplification mechanism, etc.

[0105] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive unit 500 may further include a first limit switch 528 and a second limit switch 530. The second limit switch 530 (left side) and the first limit switch 528 (right side) are respectively disposed on opposite sides / left and right sides of the upper housing 102 to control the sliding stroke of the sliding member 506. The sliding member 506 may include a first trigger protrusion 532 and a second trigger protrusion 534 on its top. The second trigger protrusion 534 (left side) and the first trigger protrusion 532 (right side) are respectively located on opposite sides / left and right sides of the sliding member 506.

[0106] like Figures 13A to 13CAs shown, when the first shape memory alloy component 502 is energized and heated to shorten and pull the sliding component 506 to the right, causing the sliding component 506 to move to its right position, the first trigger protrusion 532 on the right side of the sliding component 506 can abut against and trigger the first limit switch 528 on the right side of the upper housing 102, so that the heating circuit stops energizing the first shape memory alloy component 502. In other words, the first shape memory alloy component 502 stops shortening and stops pulling the sliding component 506 to the right, thereby keeping the sliding component 506 in the right limit position. At the same time, the switching module 400 also moves to the right and remains in the right limit position / first axial position, and correspondingly, the blade string 200 is in the first arrangement mode.

[0107] like Figures 14A to 14C As shown, when the second shape memory alloy component 504 is energized and heated to shorten and pull the sliding component 506 to the left, causing the sliding component 506 to move to its leftward position, the second trigger protrusion 534 on the left side of the sliding component 506 can abut against and trigger the second limit switch 530 on the left side of the upper housing 102, so that the heating circuit stops energizing the second shape memory alloy component 504. In other words, the second shape memory alloy component 504 stops shortening and stops pulling the sliding component 506 to the left, thereby keeping the sliding component 506 in the left limit position. At the same time, the switching module 400 also moves to the left and remains in the left limit position / second axial position, and correspondingly, the blade string 200 is in the second arrangement mode.

[0108] It is also conceivable that the construction of the drive unit is not limited to the embodiments shown, but can have other suitable constructions. For example, in some other embodiments not shown, the drive unit may include a linear motor to directly drive the axial movement of the switching module; in some other embodiments not shown, a drive unit may not be provided, but a lever or toggle may be provided on the switching module so that the user can directly drive the axial movement of the switching module by manually turning it.

[0109] Second Embodiment

[0110] Figures 15A to 18B The blade string, switching module, and first bracket of the air outlet device according to the second embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0111] The main difference between the air outlet device according to the second embodiment and the air outlet device according to the first embodiment lies in the construction and cooperation relationship of the blade string and the switching module. Therefore, only the blade string 200, the switching module 400, and the first support 110 of the air outlet device according to the second embodiment are shown, while other structures of the air outlet device are omitted. The differences between the two embodiments are described below.

[0112] Reference Figures 15A to 18BIn the second embodiment, the first switching element 402 and the blade string 200 of the switching module 400 are configured such that when the first switching element 402 moves axially relative to the drive shaft 204, it simultaneously drives the distal blade unit 202B and the drive shaft 204 to rotate relative to the first switching element 402, and the rotation directions of the distal blade unit 202B and the drive shaft 204 are opposite, thereby causing the distal blade unit 202B and the proximal blade unit 202A to rotate relative to each other to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

[0113] In the illustrated embodiment, the first switching element 402 of the switching module 400 includes a mating portion 405. The first hollow shaft 246 of the distal blade unit 202B includes a first helical trajectory 252. The mating portion 405 can engage with and move along the first helical trajectory 252, such that when the first switching element 402 moves axially relative to the drive shaft 204 and then axially relative to the distal blade unit 202B, it drives the distal blade unit 202B to rotate relative to the first switching element 402. It is conceivable that in other embodiments not shown, the mating portion can be disposed on the distal blade unit, while the first helical trajectory is disposed on the first switching element.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive shaft 204 of the blade string 200 includes a second helical trajectory 254. The mating portion 405 of the first switching element 402 can also engage with and move along the second helical trajectory 254, such that the first switching element 402 drives the drive shaft 204 to rotate relative to the first switching element 402 when it moves axially relative to the drive shaft 204. It is conceivable that, in other embodiments not shown, the mating portion could be disposed on the drive shaft while the second helical trajectory is disposed on the first switching element.

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment, the mating part 405 may be in the form of a pin, and the first helical trajectory 252 and the second helical trajectory 254 may be in the form of a helical groove. It is conceivable that in other embodiments not shown, the first helical trajectory and the second helical trajectory may be in the form of a helical surface.

[0116] The first helical trajectory 252 of the distal blade unit 202B and the second helical trajectory 254 of the drive shaft 204 are arranged in opposite directions. One of the first helical trajectory 252 and the second helical trajectory 254 can be a left-handed helical trajectory, and the other can be a right-handed helical trajectory. Thus, when the first switching element 402 moves axially relative to the drive shaft 204, it will drive the distal blade unit 202B and the drive shaft 204 to rotate in opposite directions relative to the first switching element 402. Moreover, the drive shaft 204 and the proximal blade unit 202A are always circumferentially synchronized (neither of them rotates or they rotate synchronously), so when the first switching element 402 moves axially relative to the drive shaft 204, the distal blade unit 202B and the proximal blade unit 202A rotate relative to each other, regardless of whether the proximal blade unit 202A and the drive shaft 204 themselves are driven to rotate.

[0117] Therefore, the air outlet device of the second embodiment can also change the blade unit arrangement pattern to switch between different air outlet modes while the blade string 200 is driven to rotate for sweeping / air outlet. In addition, compared with the first embodiment, the drive shaft 204 and the distal blade unit 202B of the second embodiment can rotate in opposite directions simultaneously when switching the blade unit arrangement pattern, thus speeding up the switching speed.

[0118] It is conceivable that in some other embodiments not shown, a helical trajectory can be set only on the drive shaft, and the distal blade unit can be configured to always be circumferentially synchronized with the first switching element (neither rotating or rotating synchronously), so that when the first switching element moves axially relative to the drive shaft, it drives the drive shaft to rotate relative to the first switching element, thereby causing the proximal blade unit to rotate relative to the distal blade unit, so as to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

[0119] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive shaft 204 of the blade string 200 includes a drive shaft body 214 and a second hollow shaft 247 connected to the drive shaft body 214. The second hollow shaft 247 may include a through-hole 217 to allow the drive shaft body 214 to extend through it. The shoulder 210 of the drive shaft body 214 may include a mating key 260, and the second hollow shaft 247 may include a mating keyway 262. The mating key 260 and the mating keyway 262 engage to enable the drive shaft body 214 and the second hollow shaft 247 to rotate synchronously. A second helical trajectory 254 is disposed on the second hollow shaft 247. The first hollow shaft 246 of the distal blade unit 202B can be inserted between the second hollow shaft 247 and the drive shaft body 214. A first switching element 402 can be sleeved on the second hollow shaft 247, such that the mating portion 405 of the first switching element 402 can be inserted into the first helical trajectory 252 of the first hollow shaft 246 and the second helical trajectory 254 of the second hollow shaft 247.

[0120] The other structures of the blade string 200 and the switching module 400 in the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, and will not be described again here.

[0121] It should also be understood that the various components and features described herein may be made of a variety of materials, including but not limited to polymers, rubber, metals, and other suitable materials or combinations thereof well known to those skilled in the art. Figures 1 to 12 Figure 18B The embodiments shown only illustrate the shape, quantity, size and arrangement of the various optional components of the air outlet device according to the present invention. However, they are only illustrative and not limiting. Other shapes, sizes and arrangements may be adopted without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0122] The technical content and features of this utility model have been disclosed above. However, it is understood that, under the inventive concept of this utility model, those skilled in the art can easily make modifications, variations, and equivalents of these embodiments based on the disclosed content. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. This disclosure is intended to cover these modifications, variations, and equivalents. The description of the above embodiments is exemplary and not restrictive, and the scope of protection of this utility model is determined by the claims.

Claims

1. An air outlet device, characterized in that, The air outlet device (10) includes: Casing (100); A blade string (200), the blade string (200) being disposed within the housing (100) and comprising a plurality of blade units (202), the plurality of blade units (202) being connected in series in a rotatable manner; and A switching module (400) is configured to operate both when the blade string (200) is driven and when the blade string (200) is not driven, to cause at least one of the plurality of blade units (202) to rotate relative to other blade units to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

2. The air outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air outlet device includes a drive module (300), which includes a first motor (302) to drive the blade string (200) to rotate.

3. The air outlet device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The blade string (200) includes a drive shaft (204), and the plurality of blade units (202) are sleeved on the drive shaft (204) and include proximal blade units (202A) and distal blade units (202B) located at both ends of the blade string (200); wherein the proximal blade units (202A) and the drive shaft (204) are configured to rotate synchronously; wherein the switching module (400) includes a first switching element (402), and the first switching element (402) and the drive shaft (204) Coaxial arrangement; wherein the first switching element (402) and the blade string (200) are configured such that: when the first switching element (402) moves axially relative to the drive shaft (204), it drives at least one of the distal blade unit (202B) and the drive shaft (204) to rotate relative to the first switching element (402), such that the distal blade unit (202B) and the proximal blade unit (202A) rotate relative to each other to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

4. The air outlet device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first switching element (402) and the blade string (200) are configured such that when the first switching element (402) moves axially relative to the drive shaft (204), it simultaneously drives the distal blade unit (202B) and the drive shaft (204) to rotate relative to the first switching element (402), and the rotation directions of the distal blade unit (202B) and the drive shaft (204) are opposite, thereby causing the distal blade unit (202B) and the proximal blade unit (202A) to rotate relative to each other to switch the blade unit arrangement mode.

5. The air outlet device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The distal blade unit (202B) and / or the drive shaft (204) include one of a helical trajectory (252, 254) and a mating part (405), and the first switching element (402) includes the other of a helical trajectory (252, 254) and a mating part (405), wherein the mating part (405) is adapted to engage with the helical trajectory (252, 254) and is capable of moving along the helical trajectory (252, 254).

6. The air outlet device according to claim 5, characterized in that, Both the distal blade unit (202B) and the drive shaft (204) include helical tracks (252, 254). The first switching element (402) includes a mating part (405), and the helical tracks (252, 254) of the distal blade unit (202B) and the drive shaft (204) are arranged in opposite directions, so that when the first switching element (402) moves axially relative to the drive shaft (204), it simultaneously drives the distal blade unit (202B) and the drive shaft (204) to rotate in opposite directions relative to the first switching element (402).

7. The air outlet device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The distal blade unit (202B) includes a first hollow shaft (246) sleeved outside the drive shaft (204), the first hollow shaft (246) including a first helical trajectory, wherein the first switching element (402) is sleeved outside the first hollow shaft (246). And / or, the drive shaft (204) includes a second hollow shaft (247) including a second helical trajectory, wherein the first switching element (402) is sleeved outside the second hollow shaft (247).

8. The air outlet device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The blade string (200) includes at least one limiting portion (210, 212) to restrict the axial movement of the plurality of blade units (202) relative to the drive shaft (204), and / or the first switching element (402) is axially movably mounted to the drive shaft (204).

9. The air outlet device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The proximal blade unit (202A) is fixedly connected to the drive shaft (204) in the circumferential direction.

10. The air outlet device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The proximal blade unit (202A) is connected to the drive shaft (204) by a key.

11. The air outlet device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The switching module (400) further includes a second switching element (410), which is sleeved outside the first switching element (402) and axially positioned relative to the first switching element (402). The first switching element (402) is rotatable relative to the second switching element (410), and the second switching element (410) can be driven to move axially relative to the transmission shaft (204).

12. The air outlet device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The housing (100) includes a first bracket (110), wherein the second switching element (410) is axially movable and mounted to the first bracket (110), and the distal blade unit (202B) is rotatably mounted to the first bracket (110) and axially positioned relative to the first bracket (110).

13. The air outlet device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The switching module (400) is axially movable relative to the drive shaft (204) between a first axial position and a second axial position to correspondingly switch the blade string (200) between a first arrangement mode and a second arrangement mode; wherein adjacent two blade units among the plurality of blade units (202) are connected by a key (220) and a keyway (222), wherein each keyway (222) is configured to allow the corresponding key (220) to move circumferentially within it between a first circumferential position and a second circumferential position, and wherein the blade string (200) is in the first arrangement mode when each key (220) is in the first circumferential position, and in the second arrangement mode when each key (220) is in the second circumferential position.

14. The air outlet device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, Each blade unit (202) includes a rotating shaft (206) sleeved on the drive shaft (204) and a blade (208) disposed on the rotating shaft (206) and arranged at an angle to the rotating shaft (206), and the rotating shafts (206) of the plurality of blade units (202) are connected in series axially.

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