Water-retaining fabric, filters and humidifiers

Abstract

Water-retaining fabric, characterized in that the water-retaining fabric (10) comprises: at least two woven surfaces, at least two of the woven surfaces being arranged in a layered manner one above the other, the at least two woven surfaces comprising a first woven surface (100) and a second woven surface (200) which are adjacent to each other; wherein the first woven surface (100) comprises a plurality of first air pores (101), each of the first air pores (101) being defined by a plurality of first weaving threads (110) connected to one another, and wherein first loops (102) are formed at junctions of adjacent first weaving threads (110); and the second woven surface (200) comprises a plurality of second air pores (201), each of the second air pores (201) being defined by a plurality of second weaving threads (210) connected to one another, and second loops (202) being formed at junctions of adjacent second weaving threads (210); and Connecting threads (300) extending from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to connect the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a water-retaining fabric, a filter, a humidifier and a method for producing a water-retaining fabric. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] As living standards improve, so do people's demands for their daily living environments. Air quality, especially humidity control, is a key concern in improving the living environment. An evaporative humidifier draws water through a filter screen, and an airflow generated by a fan flows through the filter to transport the water on the filter to the outside, thus humidifying the environment.

[0003] The main function of the filter is to store water. However, existing filters usually cannot accommodate both good unobstructed airflow circulation and good water retention capacity, resulting in insufficient humidification effect and, accordingly, making it difficult to meet user needs. SUMMARY

[0004] To solve at least one of the aforementioned technical problems, the present invention provides a water-retaining fabric, a filter, a humidifier, and a method for producing a water-retaining fabric.

[0005] In order to achieve the above-described object, the present invention provides the following technical solutions.

[0006] In one aspect, the present invention provides a water-retaining fabric comprising: at least two woven panels, the at least two woven panels being stacked and comprising a first woven panel (100) and a second woven panel (200) adjacent to each other; wherein the first woven surface (100) has a plurality of first air pores (101), each of the first air pores (101) being defined by a plurality of first weaving threads (110) connected to one another, and wherein first loops (102) are formed at joints of adjacent first weaving threads (110); and the second woven surface (200) has a plurality of second air pores (201), each of the second air pores (201) being defined by a plurality of second weaving threads (210) connected to one another, and second loops (202) being formed at junctions of adjacent second weaving threads (210); and

[0007] Connecting threads (300) extending from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to connect the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200).

[0008] Two connecting threads (300) extend from a single first loop (102) and / or a single second loop (202); or not fewer than five of the connecting threads (300) extend from a single first loop (102) and / or a single second loop (202).

[0009] The connecting threads (300) extending from at least one of the first loops (102) extend towards the same second loop (202); and / or the connecting threads (300) extending from at least one of the first loops (102) extend to at least two different second loops (202).

[0010] At least some of the connecting threads (300) have a greater length between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) than the distance between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), so that the connecting threads (300) are curved between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200); and / or at least some of the connecting threads (300) extend linearly between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200).

[0011] Projections of the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) in a direction perpendicular to an extension surface of the first air pore (101) overlap; and / or at least one of the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) is oval, rectangular or hexagonal.

[0012] At least one of the first weaving threads (110), the second weaving threads (210) and the connecting threads (300) comprises a first filament; at least some of the first filaments have first depressions on their surface; the first depression extends in the longitudinal direction of the first filament; or the first depression is a point-shaped depression. At least one of the first weaving threads (110), the second weaving threads (210), and the connecting threads (300) further comprises: a second filament made of a different material than the first filament; and / or an antibacterial and mold-resistant composition, wherein when a plurality of first filaments are provided, the antibacterial and mold-resistant composition is embedded between the first filaments; and / or a hydrophilic factor, wherein when a plurality of first filaments are provided, the hydrophilic factor is embedded between the first filaments.

[0013] In another aspect, the present invention further provides a filter including at least one water-retaining fabric (10) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, and when a plurality of water-retaining fabrics (10) are provided, the plurality of water-retaining fabrics (10) are connected in a stacked or spaced-apart manner.

[0014] In a further aspect, the present invention provides a humidifier comprising the filter described above or at least one water-retaining fabric (10) described above.

[0015] In another aspect, the present invention further provides a method of making a water-retaining fabric, the method comprising: Joining first weaving yarns to form a first woven surface having a plurality of first air voids, each of the first air voids being defined by a plurality of first weaving yarns being joined, and adjacent first weaving yarns being joined to form first loops; Joining second weaving yarns to form a second woven surface having a plurality of second air voids, each of the second air voids being defined by a plurality of second weaving yarns being joined, and adjacent second weaving yarns being joined to form second loops; and Inserting connecting threads to the second loops through the first loops to connect the first woven area and the second woven area.

[0016] According to the water-retaining fabric, filter, humidifier, and method for producing a water-retaining fabric proposed in the present invention, the first air pores and the second air pores are provided to enhance smooth airflow circulation and alleviate the problem of ineffective humidification due to high resistance to airflow circulation, difficulty in driving the airflow, and insufficient flow rate caused by a water film on the water-retaining fabric. Furthermore, by extending the connecting threads between the first woven surface and the second woven surface, the contact between the connecting threads and the airflow provides a sufficient area for contact between the airflow and the water, helping the airflow carry sufficient moisture to achieve effective humidification.In the present application, since the connecting threads are arranged between the first loops, each consisting of two weaving threads, and the second loops, each consisting of two weaving threads, the insufficient supporting force of the weaving threads caused by the connection with individual weaving threads is improved.Therefore, the impact on airflow circulation by the water film generated due to the insufficient opening area of ​​the first air pores and the second air pores caused by the deformation of the weaving yarns by pulling the connecting yarns is overcome; the shape stability of the connecting yarns extending between the first woven surface and the second woven surface is also improved, and the connecting yarns cannot pile up or curve to occupy an airflow passage between the first air pores and the second air pores due to the deformation of the weaving yarns by pulling; and moreover, the displacement of the first air pores and the second air pores caused by the change in the overall shape of the water-retaining fabric due to the deformation of the weaving yarns by pulling is avoided, thereby improving the effect of continuous humidification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a water-retaining fabric; Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a partial structure of another water-retaining fabric; Fig. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a connecting method of the connecting threads; Fig. 4 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of another connecting method of the connecting threads; Fig. 5 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a first air pore; Fig. 6 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of another first air pore; Fig. 7 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a filter; Fig. 8 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of another filter; Fig. 9 shows a flow chart of a method for producing a water-retaining fabric. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0017] In order to further explain the technical means and effects of the present invention for achieving the intended purpose of the present invention, the specific design, structure, features and effects of a water-retaining fabric according to the present invention will be explained in more detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0018] In one aspect, as in Fig. 1 to 6, the present invention provides a water-retaining fabric (10) comprising: at least two woven panels, at least two of the woven panels being stacked one above the other, the at least two woven panels comprising a first woven panel (100) and a second woven panel (200) adjacent to each other; and wherein the first woven surface (100) comprises a plurality of first air pores (101), and wherein the first air pores (101) are enclosed by a plurality of first threads (110) which are sequentially connected or linked to form a circle, and wherein adjacent first threads (110) are connected or linked to each other to form first loops (102); and wherein the second woven surface (200) comprises a plurality of second air pores (201), and wherein the second air pores (201) are enclosed by a plurality of second threads (210) which are sequentially connected or linked to form a circle, and wherein adjacent second threads (210) are connected or linked to form second loops (202); Connecting threads (300) extending from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to connect the first woven surface (100) to the second woven surface (200).

[0019] The water-retaining fabric (10) can be used in an evaporative humidifier and serve as a filter for the evaporative humidifier. In an evaporative humidifier, the water-retaining fabric (10) is attached to a holder, and the water-retaining fabric (10) is humidified by a structure capable of supplying water to the water-retaining fabric (10), such as an atomizer, and the water-retaining fabric (10) will retain moisture. The water-retaining fabric (10) is supplied with an air flow by an air flow driving element, e.g. a fan. The air flow flows at least from one side of the water-retaining fabric (10) to the other side and then at least through the water-retaining fabric (10), carrying the water retained on the water-retaining fabric (10) into the environment to enhance the humidification of the environment.Therefore, the permeability of the air flow and the water-retaining property of the water-retaining fabric (10) are two important factors for improving the humidification effect.

[0020] The woven surface has a certain thickness and consists of interwoven threads with a linear structure. As in Fig. 7, the woven surface may be curved in use, and the woven surface may be defined as a cylinder. Alternatively, the woven surface may be Fig. 8, be flat. The water-retaining fabric (10) may comprise a plurality of woven surfaces, and the structure of each of the woven surfaces may be the same or different. The plurality of woven surfaces are stacked and spaced apart from one another. The spacing between the woven surfaces may be uniform or uneven. The spacing between the woven surfaces is increased by means of the connecting threads (300). There may also be only two woven surfaces, as in Fig. 1, including the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200). Alternatively, in some other embodiments, more woven surfaces may be present, which can be adjusted as needed. For example, in addition to the Fig. 1, a third woven surface, a fourth woven surface, etc., may be provided on a side of the first woven surface (100) facing away from the second woven surface (200). In the embodiment in which only the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) are included, when a higher water-holding capacity is required to achieve a better moistening effect, a plurality of water-holding fabrics (10) can be closely stacked in use, as shown in Fig. 7, and the water-retaining fabrics (10) are sewn along the edges or fastened, for example, by fusion welding. Alternatively, the plurality of water-retaining fabrics (10) can be arranged as shown in Fig. shown spaced apart from each other. The air stream flows through the respective water-retaining fabrics (10) one after the other and comes into contact with the water on the various water-retaining fabrics (10) several times, so that the humidity in the air stream is increased.

[0021] The plurality of first air pores (101) of the first woven fabric (100) and the plurality of second air pores (201) of the second woven fabric (200) are openings in the woven fabrics and represent inlets and outlets through which the air flow can flow. The first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201) can be sized or shaped so that water cannot be easily stored therein or so that a water film does not form on the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201), so that the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201) serve only as passageways, and the water-retaining fabric (10) is improved with unobstructed air flow passages. The size or density of the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201) can be adjusted as needed, e.g.depending on the airflow rate of the humidifier, the material of the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), and whether the water used in the humidifier is, for example, doped with a fragrance that results in a change in the viscosity of the water. This will be described later with reference to more specific embodiments.

[0022] The first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201) are defined by weaving threads and are densely arranged on the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200). Weaving refers to the connection or linking of a plurality of weaving threads. The first air pores (101) are defined by a circle of first weaving threads (110), and the second air pores (201) are defined by a circle of second weaving threads (210). A plurality of first weaving threads (110) can be formed by continuously looping a single filament in a circle, and a plurality of second weaving threads (210) can be formed by continuously looping a single filament in a circle. As shown in Fig. 1, the first weaving threads (110) or the second weaving threads (210) are not only used to define a single first air pore (101) or a single second air pore (201). In one example of the first weaving threads (110), adjacent sides of two adjacent first air pores (101) are formed from the same first weaving threads (110), i.e., at least some of the first weaving threads (110) are used to define two adjacent first air pores (101). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first weaving threads (110) may be shared by multiple first air pores (101), for example, three first air pores (101) or four first air pores (101).

[0023] Below, in an example of the first air pore (101), the first weaving thread (110) is illustrated as a loop structure defined by a strip-shaped filament. For ease of illustration, two adjacent first weaving threads (110) are referred to as a front weaving thread and a back weaving thread, respectively. The connection between the two adjacent first weaving threads (110) refers to the front weaving thread and the back weaving thread passing over each other, and then the back weaving thread occupies part of an opening of the front weaving thread. A space formed between the back weaving thread and the front weaving thread within the opening of the front weaving thread is referred to as the above-described first loop (102).Alternatively, it can be seen that the first loop (102) is a region corresponding to the opening of the front weaving thread and also a region corresponding to an opening of the back weaving thread, and accordingly, is a common region for the front weaving thread and the back weaving thread. A plurality of first weaving threads (110) can be formed by continuously looping a single filament in a circle, and a plurality of second weaving threads (210) can be formed by continuously looping a single filament in a circle.

[0024] The connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202); alternatively, they may also extend from the second loops (202) to the first loops (102). The connecting threads (300) extend between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), and the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to maintain the distance between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) and to connect the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200). It is important that the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) so that the water-retaining fabric (10) achieves a water-retaining effect.In a first aspect, the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to ensure moisture transfer: The connecting threads (300) connect the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) and act as a bridge for moisture transfer between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), so that moisture can be efficiently transferred from the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) to the other. This construction allows moisture to be diffused and retained throughout the water-retaining fabric (10) from a position closest to or in contact with a water source, so that the fabric does not lose its moisturizing ability due to drying out.In a second aspect, the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to fix the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), thereby alleviating the problem of uneven moisture distribution caused by offsetting. The connecting threads (300) between the first loops (102) and the second loops (202) form a strong and direct connection that more firmly connects the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200). This connection reduces the relative movement of the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), improves the offset caused by airflow, vibration, or changes in water pressure during use, achieves even moisture distribution, and alleviates the problem of poor air circulation caused by offsetting.In a third aspect, the connecting threads (300) serve to increase the evaporation efficiency and improve the continuous water supply capacity of the water-retaining fabric (10): Since the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to improve the continuous moisture flow between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), the humidity of both the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) can be continuously increased, thereby increasing the evaporation area. Due to the continuous water supply and the relatively uniform moisture distribution, more moisture can be effectively evaporated when the air flow passes through the water-retaining fabric (10), thereby enhancing the humidification effect.In a fourth aspect, the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to improve the overall strength of the fabric and increase the overall structural stability: The connecting shape of the connecting threads (300) increases the overall structural strength of the water-retaining fabric (10).In an extended humidification process and extensive air circulation, this strength can prevent the water-retaining fabric (10) from being deformed or damaged due to the gravity of the humidity and airflow. Even in an environment with high humidity and strong airflow, if it works efficiently, the shape of the water-retaining fabric (10) can be maintained to a certain extent through the connection method of the connecting threads (300). In addition, the deformation of the water-retaining fabric (10) caused by pulling during brushing, assembly, and removal of the water-retaining fabric (10) can be avoided, thereby improving durability and reducing the risk of wear and reduced humidification effectiveness. The stable structure contributes to maintaining the long-term performance of the humidifier.

[0025] Under the action of an external wind component such as a blower, a centrifugal blower, and an axial blower, the air flow passes through the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201) and comes into contact with the moisture on the connecting threads (300) between the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201), so that the pressure loss of the air flow passing through the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) is reduced, and the noise caused by the impact of the air flow on the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) is reduced.Furthermore, since the connecting threads (300) absorb a considerable amount of moisture, the moisture contact area in a flow path of the airflow is increased, the contact efficiency of the airflow with water is improved, and the airflow will have sufficient moisture after passing through the water-retaining fabric (10). The connecting threads (300) themselves can absorb water. Since a plurality of connecting threads (300) are present and a water film forms between the connecting threads (300), the amount of water with which the airflow can come into contact is further increased, thereby significantly improving the water-retaining efficiency.

[0026] The connecting threads (300) can be connected by various methods. For example, a single connecting thread (300) passes through a first loop (102) to form two connecting threads (300) that are inserted through the first loop (102); and a single connecting thread (300) passes through a second loop (202) to form two connecting threads (300) that are inserted through the second loop (202). As shown in Fig. 1, it is possible for a connection to be made by passing the connecting thread (300) sequentially through a preceding first loop (102), a preceding second loop (202), a subsequent first loop (102), and a subsequent second loop (202), thereby achieving easy weaving and high structural strength. In some other embodiments, it is also possible for the connecting thread (300) to be inserted through the first loop (102) or the second loop (202) by gluing. As in the previous embodiment in which the connecting thread (300) passes through the first loop (102), only an even number of connecting threads (300) can be inserted through the first loop (102), while an odd or even number of connecting threads (300) can be inserted through the first loop (102) by gluing, such as ultrasonic welding.

[0027] Furthermore, the first loop (102) is not formed by connecting only two first weaving threads (110), but may be formed by connecting three or more first weaving threads (110) depending on the position, and a plurality of first weaving threads (110) may be formed by continuously looping a single thread in a circle. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, a first loop (102) is formed by connecting three first weaving threads (110). The connecting threads (300) pass through the first loops (102) to improve the connection and support of the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), rather than being connected to the first weaving threads (110). The structure in which two or more first weaving threads (110) are connected to form the first loop (102) is more stable and can provide stronger support for the connecting threads (300).The tension at one edge of the first loop (102) is a joint tension of two or even more first weaving threads (110). Accordingly, the shape of the first loop (102) is not easily changed, the stability of the shape and area of ​​the first air void (101) and the shape of the connecting threads (300) can be improved, and the preset air permeability and water holding capacity can be increased and will not experience significant decline after long-term use. It is understood that the connecting threads (300) have the same advantages over the second loops (202) and the second weaving threads (210) as previously analyzed.

[0028] To make the structure in the figures clearer, the Fig. 1 to 4 of the present application only a part of the structure is shown and only a part of the connecting threads (300) is drawn, while the remaining connecting threads (300) can be placed with reference to the part shown and thus form a complete water-retaining fabric (10).

[0029] According to the water-retaining fabric, the filter, and the humidifier proposed in the embodiments of the present invention, by providing the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201), and using the connecting threads (300) to extend between the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201), the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to fix the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), thereby improving the smooth airflow circulation and alleviating the problem of high resistance to airflow circulation due to the water film on the water-retaining fabric, as well as the problem of ineffective humidification due to the difficulty in driving the airflow and the insufficient flow rate.Furthermore, the expansion of the connecting threads between the first woven surface and the second woven surface provides sufficient contact area between the air flow and the water, which helps the air flow carry sufficient moisture to achieve effective humidification. In this application, since the connecting threads are arranged between the first and second loops, each consisting of two weaving threads, the insufficient support force of the weaving threads caused by the connection with individual weaving threads is improved.Therefore, the impact on airflow circulation by the water film generated due to the insufficient opening area of ​​the first air pores and the second air pores caused by the deformation of the weaving yarns by pulling the connecting yarns is overcome; the shape stability of the connecting yarns extending between the first woven surface and the second woven surface is also improved, and the connecting yarns cannot pile up or curve to occupy an airflow passage between the first air pores and the second air pores due to the deformation of the weaving yarns by pulling; and moreover, the displacement of the first air pores and the second air pores caused by the change in the overall shape of the water-retaining fabric due to the deformation of the weaving yarns by pulling is avoided, thereby improving the effect of continuous humidification.

[0030] In one embodiment, two connecting threads (300) extend from a single first loop (102) and / or a single second loop (202). For example, the connecting threads (300) can be connected such that a single connecting thread (300) extends through the first loop (102) and the second loop (202), as shown in Fig. 1. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, there may be as many as 5 connecting threads (300) extending from a single first loop (102) and / or a single second loop (202), such as 5, 6, or more connecting threads. Accordingly, the number of connecting threads (300) is greater, the connecting threads (300) are denser, and it is easier to form the water film between the connecting threads (300), so that the amount of water that can be held by the connecting threads (300) is greatly increased, the contact area between the air flow and the moisture is enlarged, and the humidification efficiency is improved with a limited volume of water-holding fabric. The number of connecting threads (300) can be adjusted according to the ventilation situation.For example, when the air flow rate is low or the fan power is low and the rotational speed is relatively low, the number of connecting threads (300) extending from a single first loop (102) and / or a single second loop (202) is no more than 30, thereby alleviating the problem of obstruction to airflow circulation because the excess connecting threads (300) expand to form an airflow passage between the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201). Furthermore, the number of connecting threads (300) can be determined depending on the thickness.For example, when the connecting threads (300) are thicker, the diameter of the threads is ≥ 80 µm, and accordingly, by controlling the number of connecting threads (300) to less than 20, it helps to alleviate the problem that the number of first air pores (101) and second air pores (201) is reduced in a limited area because the first loops (102) and / or the second loops (202) are too large. It also helps to alleviate the problem that the moisture held on the connecting threads (300) cannot be fully utilized due to a small contact area between the air flow and a single connecting thread (300) caused by overfilling the connecting threads (300).

[0031] The number of first loops (102) and second loops (202) may be the same and determined accordingly, or the number of first loops (102) and second loops (202) may be different. Each first loop (102) may be connected with a connecting thread (300), or some of the first loops (102) may be connected with a connecting thread (300). For example, a connecting thread (300) is incorporated into a preceding first loop (102), no connecting thread (300) is incorporated into one or more center-spaced first loops (102), and a connecting thread (300) is incorporated into a following first loop (102). Such an arrangement can reduce the number of connections and alleviate weaving difficulties.In addition, the density of the connecting threads (300) can be adjusted based on the number of connecting threads (300) connected in the first loops (102). For the second loops (202), a connecting thread (300) can be incorporated into each of the second loops (202), or a connecting thread (300) can be incorporated into some of the second loops (202). Examples of various connection methods are listed below, and it is understood that the following connection methods can also be used in combination.

[0032] The connection of the connecting threads (300) between the first loops (102) and the second loops (202) can be Fig. 3. For each of the connecting threads (300), the connecting thread (300) extending from at least one of the first loops (102) extends toward the same second loop (202), i.e., the connecting thread (300) repeatedly runs between the current first loop (102) and the current second loop (202), forming a plurality of connecting threads (300) extending from the first loop (102) to the second loop (202). With such a connection method, the misalignment of the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) can be overcome by the limitation of the connecting threads (300), i.e., with this connection method, the relative position of the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) can be effectively fixed.

[0033] It may also be that the connecting threads (300) extending from at least one of the first loops (102) lead to at least two different second loops (202). Alternatively, the connecting threads (300) extending from at least two first loops (102) extend toward the same second loop (202). As in Fig. 4, by the way in which the connecting threads (300) extending from a first loop (102) extend to two different second loops (202) and the connecting threads (300) extending from the same second loop (202) extend into two first loops (102), the number of the connecting threads (300) can be controlled to adjust the distance between the connecting threads (300), and minute gaps are formed between the connecting threads (300) to achieve the effect of capillary suction to realize uniform distribution of moisture while realizing continuous transfer of moisture.Furthermore, the extension length of the connecting threads (300) can be increased, which increases the water storage capacity of a single connecting thread (300); and the appropriate adjustment of the distance between the connecting threads (300) helps to improve the water film between the connecting threads (300), thereby further increasing the water storage capacity of the connecting threads (300).

[0034] Furthermore, the connecting threads (300) may extend from the first loop (102) to a plurality of second loops (202), for example to three second loops.

[0035] In one embodiment, at least some of the connecting threads (300) between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) have a greater length than a distance between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), such that the connecting threads (300) between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) are curved. The curved shape of the connecting thread (300) allows the length of an individual connecting thread (300) to be increased, which increases the water absorption capacity of the connecting thread (300) itself. It can be assumed that the circulation path of the air flow between the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) is a curved path that is longer and offers more opportunities for contact with water, thereby further increasing the water holding capacity of the air flow.Furthermore, the area of ​​the water film formed between adjacent connecting threads (300) can be increased, further increasing the total water-holding capacity of the plurality of connecting threads (300). The connecting thread (300) can be curved in an arcuate shape, or in some embodiments, the connecting thread (300) can be curved alternately in multiple directions, and the connecting thread (300) can be wound helically, for example, in the shape of a spring, so that the water-holding capacity of the connecting thread (300) can be further increased.

[0036] Alternatively, at least some of the connecting threads (300) extend linearly between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), so that the air permeability between the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201) can be increased and the difficulty in weaving the connecting threads (300) can be reduced.

[0037] In one embodiment, the number of first air pores (101) and second air pores (201) is the same, thereby forming passages in which the first air pores (101) correspond to the second air pores (201). The number of first air pores (101) and second air pores (201) may be different, wherein a first air pore (101) may correspond to a plurality of second air pores (201) to form a passage, or a plurality of first air pores (101) may correspond to a single second air pore (201) to form a passage. The size of the first air pores (101) and the second air pores (201) may be the same or different.For example, the first air pore (101) may be located at the front end of a flow direction of the air flow and the size of the first air pore (101) may be smaller than that of the second air pore (201), thereby alleviating the problem of the formation of a water film on the second air pore (201) due to the blockage of the air flow with high humidity at the second air pore (201). Alternatively, the size of the first air pore (101) may be larger than that of the second air pore (201), so that the airflow passage between the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) has a tendency to narrow, which increases the pressure of the airflow on the connecting thread (300) between the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201), increases the contact strength between the airflow and the moisture on the connecting thread (300), and makes it easy for the airflow to carry the moisture.

[0038] The relative position of the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) may be different. For example, the surface on which the first air pore (101) is located may be approximated as a plane, projections of the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) at least partially overlap in a direction perpendicular to the plane on which the first air pore (101) is located, and the projections with a high degree of overlap provide the air flow with a passage perpendicular to the plane on which the first air pore (101) is located, thereby improving unobstructed air flow circulation. Alternatively, the projections of the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) may partially overlap each other in the direction perpendicular to an extension surface of the first air pore (101), i.e.The first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) are offset to provide a passage for the air flow that is inclined to the plane in which the first air pore (101) is located. Therefore, by limiting the distance between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), the length of the air flow passage is increased, the length of the connecting thread (300) is lengthened, and the contact time between the air flow and the connecting thread (300) is increased, thus increasing the water-holding capacity of the air flow.

[0039] The first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) can have different shapes. The first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) can be regularly circular, oval, triangular, or polygonal, or the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) can have an irregular shape. For example, at least one of the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) can have an irregular oval shape or an irregular rectangular shape, as in Fig. 5, or an irregular hexagonal shape, as in Fig. 6, wherein the irregular hexagonal shape may be referred to as a hexagonal-like shape. The openings of the plurality of first air pores (101) and the plurality of second air pores (201) may have different shapes, e.g., a combination of a hexagon and a triangle.

[0040] The size of the various first air pores (101) and second air pores (201), the density of the connecting threads (300), and the thickness of the water-retaining fabric (10) are not independent of each other and interact with each other, which jointly limits the water-retaining capacity and the water-retaining effect after airflow circulation. This application provides the following specific data for reference, and the following data together achieve a good humidification effect: the first air pore (101) or the second air pore (201) has the shape of a hexagon, the length of a long diagonal of the hexagon is greater than or equal to 3 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm, and the length of a short diagonal of the hexagon is greater than or equal to 2 mm and less than or equal to 3 mm. If the air pore has the shape of a polygon, the diagonal refers to a line segment connecting any two non-adjacent vertices of the polygon, the short diagonal refers to a shortest line segment between any two non-adjacent vertices, and the long diagonal refers to a line segment between any two non-adjacent vertices that is longer than the short diagonal. If the air pore has the shape of a circle or an oval, the diagonal refers to a line segment connecting any two points on the circle.A chord can be considered the "diagonal" of a circle, where the long diagonal refers to the longest chord, i.e., the diameter, of the circle or oval, and the short diagonal refers to a line segment between any two points that is shorter than the long diagonal. The water-retaining fabric (10) has a thickness of greater than or equal to 3 mm and less than or equal to 8 mm. The density of the connecting threads (300) includes a warp density of greater than or equal to 30 threads per inch and less than or equal to 36 threads per inch, and a weft density of greater than or equal to 24 threads per inch and less than or equal to 26 threads per inch.When multiple water-retaining fabrics (10) are stacked in use, the number of layers of the water-retaining fabrics (10) is less than 4, thereby reducing the problem of excessive wind resistance caused by the superposition of positional differences between the layers when the number of layers is too large.

[0041] The individual fibers spun into a weaving thread are referred to as filaments. At least one of the first weaving thread (110), the second weaving thread (210), and the connecting thread (300) comprises a first filament. In an example of the first weaving thread (110), it can be understood that the following characterization of the filament in the first weaving thread (110) is applicable to the filament in the second weaving thread (210) and the connecting thread (300). The first weaving thread (110) can be densely spun with a plurality of first filaments, for example, with 140 to 150 first filaments.In one embodiment, at least some of the first filaments have first recesses on their surfaces, wherein each of the first recesses may be a recess extending in a longitudinal direction of the first filament, or a recess extending in a circumferential or random direction, and the recess may be a narrow, fine line or a wide groove. For example, a first recess extending in the longitudinal direction of the first filament may be provided on each side of the first filament in the circumferential direction, so that the first filament may have a specially shaped cross-section in the longitudinal direction, such as a triangle with each side concave inward or a square with each side concave inward.This helps to increase the area of ​​a water-retaining surface of the first thread and can achieve effective water retention, increase the contact area between the airflow and the water, and improve humidification efficiency. The first depression may not be a rod-shaped depression but a point-shaped depression, which makes the first thread have an uneven rough surface. The rough surface may be formed by physical deposition on the surface of the first thread, so that the first thread has an uneven surface, which helps to increase the area of ​​the water-retaining surface and achieve effective water retention, increase the contact area between the airflow and the water, and improve humidification efficiency. The height difference between a protrusion of the rough surface and a concave portion can be above 0 μm and below 100 μm.

[0042] It may be that the first depressions of the first filaments contained in different first weaving threads (110) have the same shape, for example, that the first weaving threads (110) are composed of first filaments with the same cross-sectional shape. However, the first filaments may have different degrees of softness and hardness due to the first depressions at different positions. In order to increase the strength of the edge of the first air pore (101) and at the same time achieve good water retention capacity, the first depressions of the first filaments contained in different first weaving threads (110) may have different shapes, i.e., the different first weaving threads (110) may be spun with first filaments with different cross-sectional shapes. The first depressions of different first filaments in one and the same first weaving thread (110) may have the same or different shapes, i.e.,the first weaving thread (110) can be compactly spun with a plurality of first filaments having the same cross-sectional shape, or the first weaving thread (110) can be compactly spun with a plurality of first filaments having different cross-sectional shapes.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first weaving thread (110) further includes a second filament made of a different material than the first filament. The material of the thread can be softer, resulting in better formability, or it can be harder, which has good structural strength and is less prone to deformation after prolonged use. The filament itself can have good water absorption capacity, e.g., it can be made of a cotton material, which improves water absorption capacity. Alternatively, the thread itself can be non-absorbent, and the water retention capacity is improved by the depressions or roughness of the surface, thereby reducing deposits in the thread. The strength and water absorption capacity of the first weaving thread (110) can be varied as needed by mixing different filaments.For example, the first thread may be non-absorbent and absorb water only on its surface, while the second thread can absorb water; or the hardness of the first thread may be greater than the hardness of the second thread.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first weaving thread (110) further includes an antibacterial and mold-resistant composition embedded between the first filaments or between the first filaments and the second filaments. That is, when a plurality of first filaments or the first filaments and the second filaments are spun together to form the first weaving thread (110), the antibacterial and mold-resistant composition is added to be combined with the first and second filaments and spun. The embedded addition of the composition overcomes the disadvantages that the antibacterial and mold-resistant composition applied after the formation of the first weaving thread (110) is easy to fall off and that the operation is cumbersome.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first weaving yarn (110) further includes a hydrophilic factor embedded between the first filaments or between the first filaments and the second filaments. That is, the hydrophilic factor is added when a plurality of first filaments or the first filaments and the second filaments are spun together to form the first weaving yarn (110). For example, poly(butyl acrylate), methyl methacrylate, and the like can be added during the weaving process. The embedded addition of the composition overcomes the disadvantages that the hydrophilic layer applied after the formation of the first weaving yarn (110) easily falls off and that the operation is cumbersome.

[0046] When the connecting thread (300) contains only a single first filament, the method of coating the antibacterial and mold-resistant composition and the hydrophilic factor can also be used to improve the performance of the connecting thread (300).

[0047] The water-retaining fabric (10) can be of various colors, for example, it can be non-white, such as gray, light brown, yellow, and blue. It is not easy to find limescale and other deposits deposited on the water-retaining fabric (10), and accordingly, the water-retaining fabric is less prone to discoloration after long-term use, and the appearance deterioration caused by irregular color and yellowing of the water-retaining fabric (10) caused by limescale is overcome.

[0048] In another aspect, the present invention further provides a filter comprising at least one water-retaining fabric (10) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein one or more water-retaining fabrics (10) may be provided as needed, and the water-retaining fabric (10) may be defined as a cylinder as in Fig. 7, or flattened, as in Fig. 8. If several water-retaining fabrics (10) are used, the several water-retaining fabrics (10) can be tightly connected to each other, as in Fig. 7, and fixed by sewing the edges, and they can be fitted integrally over a single holder. Alternatively, the water-retaining fabrics can be Fig. 8 are arranged at a distance from each other and each provided with a fastening device.

[0049] The filter contains the water-retaining fabric (10) in one of the aforementioned embodiments and has the advantages of the water-retaining fabric (10) in one of the aforementioned embodiments, which are not repeated here.

[0050] In another aspect, the present application further provides a humidifier comprising the above-described filter, a support, a water supply mechanism, and an airflow driving mechanism, wherein the filter is connected to the support, and the water supply mechanism supplies water to a water-retaining fabric (10) of the filter through a sprayer or the like, so that the water-retaining fabric (10) retains water. The airflow driving mechanism supplies an airflow to the water-retaining fabric (10) through a blower or the like. The airflow flows from one side of the water-retaining fabric (10) to the other side and then passes through the water-retaining fabric (10), carrying the moisture on the water-retaining fabric (10) into the environment to enhance humidification of the environment.

[0051] The humidifier includes at least one filter in one of the above-mentioned embodiments and has the advantages of the filters described above, which are not repeated here.

[0052] In another aspect, as in Fig. 9, the present invention further provides a method of manufacturing a water-retaining fabric which can be used to manufacture and form a water-retaining fabric according to any of the preceding embodiments, the method comprising the following steps.

[0053] In step S1, first weaving threads (110) are connected to form a first woven surface (100) having a plurality of first air pores (101), wherein each of the first air pores (101) is defined by a plurality of first weaving threads (110) that are connected or looped, and adjacent first weaving threads (110) are connected or linked to form first loops (102).

[0054] In step S2, second weaving yarns (210) are connected to form a second woven surface (200) having a plurality of second air pores (201), wherein each of the second air pores (201) is defined by a plurality of second weaving yarns (210) that are connected or looped, and adjacent second weaving yarns (210) are connected or linked to form second loops (202).

[0055] At least one of the first weaving thread (110) and the second weaving thread (210) is a yarn composed of a single or multiple first filaments. In some embodiments, at least one of the first weaving thread (110) and the second weaving thread (210) further comprises a second filament composed of a different material than the first filament, a hydrophilic factor, and / or an antibacterial and mold-resistant composition, and the second filament, the hydrophilic factor, and / or the antibacterial and mold-resistant composition are spun together with the first filament to form the first weaving thread (110) and / or the second weaving thread (210). The first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) can be formed in the same way.In one example of the first woven fabric (100), yarns may be looped by a net machine to form the first weaving yarns (110), and the first weaving yarns (110) are sequentially connected or linked to form the first woven fabric (100) having a plurality of first air voids (101). The size of the first air void (101) can be changed by changing the length of the first weaving yarns (110) or the number of the first weaving yarns (110) defining the first air void (101), and the shape of the first air void (101) can be changed based on the connection relationship and positions of the plurality of first weaving yarns (110), so that the problem that there is no water film or it is difficult to form the water film on the first air void (101) and the second air void (201) can be alleviated. As shown in . Fig. 1, the first weaving threads (110) or the second weaving threads (210) are not only used to define a single first air pore (101) or a single second air pore (201). In one example of the first weaving threads (110), adjacent sides of two adjacent first air pores (101) are formed from the same first weaving threads (110), i.e., at least some of the first weaving threads (110) are used to define two adjacent first air pores (101). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first weaving threads (110) may be shared by multiple first air pores (101), for example, three first air pores (101) or four first air pores (101).

[0056] Two adjacent first weaving threads (110) and adjacent second weaving threads (210) are connected or linked to each other, and holes are formed at the connection points by the connection or linking. In an example of the first air void (101), two adjacent first weaving threads (110) are referred to as a front weaving thread and a back weaving thread, respectively, for the sake of simplicity. The connection between the two adjacent first weaving threads (110) refers to the front weaving thread and the back weaving thread passing over each other, and then the back weaving thread occupies part of an opening of the front weaving thread. A space formed between the back weaving thread and the front weaving thread within the opening of the front weaving thread is referred to as the above-described first loop (102).Alternatively, it can be seen that the first loop (102) is a region corresponding to the opening of the front weaving thread and also a region corresponding to an opening of the back weaving thread, and accordingly, is a common region for the front weaving thread and the back weaving thread. Furthermore, the first loop (102) is not formed by connecting only two first weaving threads (110), but may be formed by connecting three or more first weaving threads (110) depending on the position. As shown in FIG. Fig. 2, three first weaving threads (110) are connected together to form the first loop (102).

[0057] In the weaving method described above, only the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) can be formed. Alternatively, multiple woven surfaces can be formed, e.g., a third woven surface, a fourth woven surface, and a fifth woven surface.

[0058] In step S3, the connecting threads (300) are inserted through the first loops (102) into the second loops (202) to connect the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200).

[0059] The connecting thread (300) is a yarn composed of a single or multiple first filaments. In some embodiments, the connecting thread (300) further comprises a second filament made of a different material than the first filament, a hydrophilic factor, and / or an antibacterial and mold-resistant composition, and the second filament, the hydrophilic factor, and / or the antibacterial and mold-resistant composition are spun together with the first filament to form the connecting thread (300).

[0060] After the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) or more woven surfaces are formed, the plurality of woven surfaces are stacked and connected to each other. For example, when the woven surface comprises only the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) are stacked and spaced apart from each other. The distance between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) can be uniform or non-uniform, and the distance can be determined according to the humidification requirement, the viscosity of the water, the size of the stitches, the number of connecting threads (300), and the like. The manner in which the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) can vary.For example, a single connecting thread (300) may run or pass through a first loop (102) to form two connecting threads (300) that are inserted through the first loop (102), and a single connecting thread (300) may run or pass through a second loop (202) to form two connecting threads (300) that are inserted through the second loop (202). As shown in . Fig.1, it is possible for a connection to be established by passing the connecting thread (300) sequentially through a preceding first loop (102), a preceding second loop (202), a subsequent first loop (102), and a subsequent second loop (202), i.e., a plurality of first loops (102) and second loops (202) can be connected with only a single connecting thread (300). The entire first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) can be connected by only one connecting thread (300), or a certain number of first air pores (101) and second air pores (201) can be connected by one connecting thread (300), e.g., all ten rows of first air pores (101) can be connected by a single connecting thread (300).The number of passes of the connecting thread (300) through the first loop (102) and the second loop (202) is reduced by the method of threading the connecting thread (300), thereby achieving a simple structure, easy weaving and manufacturing, and low cost. In some other embodiments, it is also possible for the connecting thread (300) to be inserted through the first loop (102) or the second loop (202) by gluing. As in the above embodiment in which the connecting thread (300) passes through the first loop (102), only an even number of connecting threads (300) can be inserted through the first loop (102), while an odd or even number of connecting threads (300) can be inserted through the first loop (102) by gluing, such as ultrasonic welding.

[0061] The connecting threads (300) pass through the first loops (102) and the second loops (202) to connect the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) and maintain the distance between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), rather than being connected to the first weaving threads (110). The structure in which two or more first weaving threads (110) are connected or linked to form the first loops (102) is more stable and can provide stronger support to the connecting threads (300).The tension at the edge of the first loop (102) is a joint tension of two or even more first weaving threads (110). Accordingly, the shape of the first loop (102) is not easily changed, the stability of the shape and area of ​​the first air void (101) and the shape of the connecting threads (300) can be improved, and the preset air permeability and water holding capacity can be increased and will not experience a significant decline after long-term use. It can be understood that the connecting threads (300) have the same advantages over the second loops (202) and the second weaving threads (210) as previously analyzed.

[0062] Since in the present application the connecting threads (300) are provided between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) to connect and support the two, in a first aspect the connecting threads (300) extending from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) function in moisture transfer: the connecting threads (300) extend from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to connect the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) and act as a bridge for moisture transfer between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) so that moisture can be efficiently transferred from one of the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) to the other.This construction allows moisture to diffuse from a position of the water-retaining fabric (10) closest to or in contact with a water source into the entire water-retaining fabric (10) and be retained there, thus alleviating the problem of the fabric losing its moisturizing ability due to drying. In a second aspect, the connecting threads (300) serve to increase the evaporation efficiency and improve the continuous water supply capacity of the water-retaining fabric (10): With the connecting threads (300), the continuous flow of moisture between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) is realized, and the humidity of both the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) can be continuously increased, thereby expanding the evaporation area.Due to the continuous water supply and the relatively balanced moisture distribution, more moisture can be effectively evaporated when the air flow passes through the water-retaining fabric (10), thereby enhancing the humidification effect. In a third aspect, the connecting threads (300) serve to improve the overall strength of the fabric and increase the overall structural stability: The connecting shape of the connecting threads (300) increases the overall structural strength of the water-retaining fabric (10).In an extended humidification process and extensive air circulation, this strength can prevent the water-retaining fabric (10) from being deformed or damaged due to the gravity of the humidity and airflow. Even in an environment with high humidity and strong airflow, if it works efficiently, the shape of the water-retaining fabric (10) can be maintained to a certain extent through the connection method of the connecting threads (300). In addition, the deformation of the water-retaining fabric (10) caused by pulling during brushing, assembly, and removal of the water-retaining fabric (10) can be avoided, thereby improving durability and reducing the risk of wear and reduced humidification effectiveness. The stable structure helps maintain the performance of the humidifier in the long term.In a fourth aspect, the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) are fixed, thereby alleviating the problem of uneven distribution of moisture due to offset: The connecting threads (300) between the first loops (102) and the second loops (202) form a strong and direct connection that more firmly connects the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200). This connection reduces the relative movement of the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), alleviates the problem of offset caused by airflow, vibration, or changes in water pressure during use, achieves even distribution of moisture, and helps alleviate the problem of poor air circulation caused by offset.

[0063] The above descriptions merely illustrate specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any modification or substitution easily conceived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope of the present invention should be considered within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is the scope of the claims.

Claims

[1] Water-retaining fabric, characterized by that the water-retaining fabric (10) comprises: at least two woven surfaces, at least two of the woven surfaces being arranged in a layered manner one above the other, the at least two woven surfaces comprising a first woven surface (100) and a second woven surface (200) which are adjacent to each other; wherein the first woven surface (100) comprises a plurality of first air pores (101), each of the first air pores (101) being defined by a plurality of first weaving threads (110) connected to one another, and wherein first loops (102) are formed at junctions of adjacent first weaving threads (110); and the second woven surface (200) comprises a plurality of second air pores (201), each of the second air pores (201) being defined by a plurality of second weaving threads (210) connected to one another, and second loops (202) being formed at junctions of adjacent second weaving threads (210); and Connecting threads (300) extending from the first loops (102) to the second loops (202) to connect the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200). [2] Water-retaining fabric according to claim 1, characterized by , that two of the connecting threads (300) extend from a single first loop (102) and / or a single second loop (202); or not fewer than five of the connecting threads (300) extend from a single first loop (102) and / or a single second loop (202). [3] Water-retaining fabric according to claim 1, characterized by, that the connecting threads (300) extending from at least one of the first loops (102) extend to the same second loop (202); and / or the connecting threads (300) extending from at least one of the first loops (102) extend to at least two different second loops (202). [4] Water-retaining fabric according to claim 1, characterized by , that at least some of the connecting threads (300) have a greater length between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200) than a distance between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200), so that the connecting threads (300) are curved between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200); and / or at least some of the connecting threads (300) extend linearly between the first woven surface (100) and the second woven surface (200). [5] Water-retaining fabric according to claim 1, characterized by , that projections of the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) in a direction perpendicular to an extension surface of the first air pore (101) overlap or partially overlap each other; and / or at least one of the first air pore (101) and the second air pore (201) is oval, rectangular or hexagonal. [6] Water-retaining fabric according to claim 1, characterized by , that at least one of the first weaving threads (110), the second weaving threads (210) and the connecting threads (300) comprises a first filament; the first filament has a first depression on its surface; the first recess extends in the longitudinal direction of the first filament; or the first depression is a point-shaped depression. [7] Water-retaining fabric according to claim 1, characterized bythat at least one of the first weaving threads (110), the second weaving threads (210) and the connecting threads (300) further comprises: a second filament made of a different material than the first filament; and / or an antibacterial and mold-resistant composition, wherein when a plurality of first filaments are provided, the antibacterial and mold-resistant composition is embedded between the first filaments; and / or a hydrophilic factor, wherein when a plurality of first filaments are provided, the hydrophilic factor is embedded between the first filaments. [8] Filters, characterized bythat the filter comprises at least one water-retaining fabric (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and when a plurality of water-retaining fabrics (10) are provided, the plurality of water-retaining fabrics (10) are connected in a stacked or spaced-apart manner. [9] Humidifier, characterized by that the humidifier comprises a filter according to claim 8 or at least one water-retaining fabric (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7.

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