Air humidification device

Abstract

The invention relates to an air humidification device (10) and to a method for producing an air humidification device, comprising a liquid container (20); an air humidification unit (30); and a pump (70) for supplying the air humidification unit (30) with liquid (60) from the liquid container (20); wherein the air humidification unit (30) comprises an evaporation part (31), wherein the pump (70) is connected on the pressure side to the evaporation part (31). An air humidification device and a method which permits better enriching of moisture in the ambient air, and which is simple and economical to produce, is created in that the evaporation part (31) has an open porous cage structure (32) of plastic, which is produced in a three-dimensional printing process.

Description

[0001] Humidification device

[0002] The invention relates to an air humidification device according to the preamble of claim 1 as well as a method for producing an air humidification device and a system for measuring and monitoring the ambient air.

[0003] It is known from experience that salty air can alleviate respiratory problems. For this purpose, people often visit spas near graduation towers and / or locations on the coast. However, a stay there would be several weeks, which is often associated with high costs. Therefore, so-called marine air conditioners also exist. These portable marine air conditioners are suitable for indoor use and enrich the air with water, salts, and minerals, thus ensuring a sense of well-being and a healthy indoor climate. The disadvantages, however, are the complex construction, weight, and size of such marine air conditioners.

[0004] DE 10 2014 204 916 A1 discloses an air humidification device comprising a housing with a liquid container, a humidification unit, and a pump for supplying the air humidification unit with liquid from the liquid container. The air humidification unit includes an evaporation section, the pump being connected to the evaporation section on the pressure side, ambient air being directed through the evaporation section by means of a fan, and a UV lamp being arranged in the housing. Disadvantages include the complex design of the air humidification device and the complex care and maintenance of the individual components.

[0005] DE 93 14 890 U1 discloses an air humidification device comprising a liquid container, a humidification unit consisting of stones and / or salt lumps, and a pump for supplying the humidification unit with liquid from the liquid container. The humidification unit includes an evaporation section, with the pump connected to the evaporation section on the pressure side. A disadvantage of the air humidification device is its high weight. Furthermore, the care and maintenance of the individual components, particularly the pebbles, is time-consuming.

[0006] DE 200 16 753 U1 discloses an air humidification device comprising an air humidification unit with intermediate levels for inserting salt blocks and a pump for supplying the air humidification unit with liquid. The air humidification unit includes an evaporation part, and the evaporation part is made of a plastic. A disadvantage is that no liquid container is provided. Furthermore, production, care, and maintenance are time-consuming.

[0007] It is the object of the invention to provide an air humidification device or a method which enables an improved enrichment of moisture in the ambient air and which is simple and economical to manufacture, as well as to provide a system for measuring and monitoring the ambient air with which the quality of the ambient air can be easily adjusted.

[0008] This object is achieved according to the invention by an air humidification device or a method or a system having the features of an independent claim.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, an air humidification device is provided, comprising a liquid container, a humidification unit, and a pump for supplying the air humidification unit with liquid from the liquid container. The air humidification unit comprises an evaporation part, the pump being connected to the evaporation part on the pressure side. The air humidification device is characterized in that the evaporation part has an open, porous basket structure made of plastic, which is produced using a three-dimensional printing process. Advantageously, a so-called 3D printing process enables the economical production of geometrically complex bodies that cannot be produced, for example, using an injection molding process.Furthermore, the 3D printing process is very well suited to producing open porous bodies that ensure an increased contact surface for mass transport and that have defined flow characteristics of the flowing liquid.

[0010] The porous basket structure expediently has a solids volume fraction in a range between 2% and 85%, preferably between 6% and 12%, and particularly preferably 10%. Advantageously, an increased mass transfer surface of the basket structure is created, which has a relatively low solids volume fraction at 10%, so that the liquid that wets the basket structure and is to be evaporated has as much contact surface as possible with a surrounding medium, e.g., ambient air, with a residence time of the liquid within the basket structure being defined. Furthermore, the low solids volume fraction reduces the dead weight of the basket structure. Advantageously, the 3D printing process allows the production of an air humidification device that is lightweight, has increased robustness, and has improved corrosion resistance. Furthermore, the air humidification device is environmentally friendly without the use of adhesives and bonding agents, e.g.Screws can be manufactured.

[0011] Preferably, the basket structure has a gyroid structure, at least in sections. With a relatively low solids volume fraction of between 6% and 12% of the basket structure, a gyroid structure advantageously provides the basket structure with increased mechanical stability and an improved mass transfer surface, allowing the ambient air to be enriched with water and salts more efficiently. Furthermore, material costs can be saved due to the gyroid structure, as the gyroid structure ensures particularly high mechanical stability even with minimal material usage. Consequently, the low material usage using the 3D printing process also significantly reduces production time, which in turn reduces electricity costs.

[0012] Advantageously, free ambient air can flow against and / or through the basket structure by means of free convection. The liquid trickling through the basket structure causes temperature differences due to evaporation, which advantageously leads to free or natural convection of the ambient air through the basket structure. The air humidification device functions according to a cross-flow principle, whereby the liquid flows vertically from top to bottom through the basket structure, with an air flow flowing horizontally from at least partially right to left and / or from left to right. In this case, the air flow is arranged essentially perpendicular to a liquid flow. Furthermore, due to the gyroid structure, the air flow within the basket structure exhibits turbulence, which advantageously increases the residence time of the flowing air in the basket structure and improves the enrichment of moisture or water in the ambient air.Furthermore, due to free convection, no additional fan is required to induce forced convection. Furthermore, the humidification system is advantageously compact and can be manufactured with few components.

[0013] The basket structure preferably has a cuboid and / or cubic outer shape, which can be flowed against and / or through by means of free convection from at least two sides transverse to the direction of extension of the basket structure. A cuboid and / or cubic outer shape of the basket structure can advantageously be easily produced using a 3D printing process. Furthermore, the basket structure is advantageously designed to be open on at least two sides, so that the ambient air can penetrate the basket structure from at least two sides and the air enriched with liquid or salt can also leave the basket structure again from at least two sides. This advantageously promotes the mass transfer between the ambient air and the liquid. The basket structure preferably has a cylindrical and / or spherical outer shape, so that the basket structure can be flowed against and / or through by means of free convection from all directions.Advantageously, the ambient air can enter the basket structure from all directions. Furthermore, the enriched air can exit the basket structure in all directions. This favorably promotes the exchange of substances between the ambient air and the liquid, as it allows, among other things, the circulation of the ambient air within the basket structure to be regulated.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the air humidification unit comprises a distribution part. Advantageously, the distribution part enables a uniform sprinkling of the liquid from the liquid container, so that the basket structure is completely and evenly wetted with the liquid at a highest position from above.

[0015] The distributor part preferably comprises an upper part and a lower part opposite the upper part, designed as a perforated trickle element. The upper part and the lower part are connected to one another, and the distributor part has at least one connection for the inlet of the liquid from the liquid container. Advantageously, the liquid is fed directly into the distributor part via the connection. Furthermore, the introduced liquid advantageously flows evenly around and wets the interior of the distributor part, so that the basket structure is evenly supplied with liquid via the lower part designed as a trickle element.

[0016] Preferably, a hollow chamber with at least one channel is formed between the upper and lower parts. Advantageously, the distributor part is designed as a type of shower head, wherein the distributor part is configured in such a way that no blockages can occur due to solids dissolved in the liquid, such as salts, thus advantageously ensuring a uniform spraying of the air humidification unit with liquid.

[0017] The distributor part is expediently arranged above the basket structure, with the lower part designed as a trickling element facing the basket structure, so that the liquid fed into the distributor part can trickle down onto the basket structure, preferably in droplet form. Advantageously, the liquid can thus be evenly metered in droplet form via the distributor part, so that a mass transfer advantageously occurs during sprinkling or during the fall of a droplet and thus before the liquid comes into contact with the basket structure, which positively influences the absorption of substances from the liquid into the ambient air.

[0018] The upper and lower parts of the distributor part are expediently connected via at least one connecting channel, with the upper part of the distributor part being arranged above the basket structure, and the lower part, designed as a trickling element, being arranged within the basket structure, so that the liquid fed into the distributor part can be fed to the evaporation part within the basket structure. This arrangement advantageously enables quiet operation of the air humidification device. Furthermore, the above arrangement advantageously requires fewer components, thus reducing assembly and production time.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the basket structure is formed integrally with at least one support element, wherein the support element is arranged at the end in the liquid container or rests on it. Advantageously, the basket structure comprises a support element designed as a foot, which can be connected to the liquid container, so that the basket structure is arranged predominantly above a liquid level of the liquid container, so that the basket structure is always in contact with the ambient air.

[0020] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the evaporation part comprises at least one channel, which includes at least one channel inlet and at least one channel outlet, through which the liquid can flow from the liquid container. Advantageously, the liquid is conveyed quickly and efficiently from the liquid container to an area above the basket structure via the channel.

[0021] According to an alternative embodiment, the channel has a channel wall that is at least partially perforated, so that the liquid flowing through the channel can exit the channel via perforations in a direction transverse to the direction of liquid flow and directly penetrate the adjacent basket structure. Advantageously, the channel is designed as a metering element, through which the liquid intended for mass transfer can be directly introduced into the basket structure, so that the basket structure is supplied with liquid evenly and quietly.

[0022] Preferably, at least one distribution channel branches off from the channel transversely to a longitudinal direction of the channel, so that the liquid flowing through the channel can at least partially leave the channel via the distribution channel, wherein the at least one distribution channel has a channel wall that is at least partially perforated and has at least one opening, so that the liquid can penetrate directly into the adjacent basket structure. Advantageously, a defined feed of the liquid at any point within the basket structure is possible, whereby the basket structure can advantageously be almost completely wetted with liquid, whereby an improved contact surface between the circulating liquid and the ambient air can be adjusted, thus enabling an improved enrichment of the ambient air with moisture and / or salts.

[0023] Conveniently, at least one hose section and / or one pipe section connects the pump to the evaporation section and / or the distribution section. The use of a hose advantageously creates a particularly low-maintenance humidification system, as a hose is easy to clean and, if necessary, can be easily replaced.

[0024] Preferably, the liquid supplying the air humidification unit is at least partially a solution containing water and at least one water-soluble salt and / or mineral and / or water-soluble and / or miscible substances. In addition to using pure tap water or distilled water, a solution comprising water and a water-soluble or water-miscible substance can also advantageously be applied to the air humidification unit to create a defined effect in the ambient air, e.g., for therapeutic purposes, by enriching the ambient air with salts, minerals, and / or essential oils.

[0025] According to an alternative embodiment, the liquid contains fragrances and / or flavorings. Advantageously, certain fragrances and / or flavorings are added to the liquid so that the ambient air acquires a specific scent that reduces odors caused, for example, by pets.

[0026] According to another alternative embodiment, the entire humidification device is manufactured in one piece. The 3D printing process advantageously offers a so-called print-in-place process, in which all components can be manufactured directly as a single unit, virtually eliminating assembly time, so that only the finished product needs to be packaged.

[0027] According to an alternative embodiment, the humidification unit is designed as a modular block system, with individual blocks being detachably connected to one another via plug-in and snap-in components and corresponding recesses. This advantageously opens up the possibility of individually providing a larger area of ​​a humidification unit. Large-area humidification units can be easily installed in this way, particularly in public buildings or rooms, offices, and even in private households. As a result, an alternative, immobile humidification device is provided that can enrich the ambient air in larger spaces, e.g., exhibition halls, swimming pools, etc., with liquid or salt.

[0028] Preferably, a plate-shaped grid is inserted into the liquid container, wherein the grid is arranged parallel to a bottom of the liquid container. On the one hand, the grid advantageously serves as a type of fastening element for the air humidification unit, and on the other hand, the grid advantageously serves as a type of splash guard, preventing the liquid from spilling out of the liquid container during operation, thus keeping the immediate surroundings dry. Furthermore, the grid comprises a clamping element on an underside facing the bottom of the liquid container, with which the pump can be attached to the grid via this clamping element.

[0029] Conveniently, the grille has a first quick-connect element, and the humidification unit has a corresponding second quick-connect element, so that the grille and the humidification unit can be detachably connected via a quick-connect system. Advantageously, a connection between the grille and the humidification unit can be established simply, intuitively, and quickly, eliminating the need for tools and connecting elements, such as screws. Furthermore, the first quick-connect element can be manufactured in one piece with the grille, and the second quick-connect element can be manufactured in one piece with the humidification unit, each using the three-dimensional printing process.

[0030] Preferably, the first quick-connect element and the second quick-connect element are each truncated cone-shaped. A truncated cone shape advantageously facilitates easy mating, with the truncated cone shape advantageously serving as an insertion aid. Furthermore, a truncated cone-shaped contact promotes a particularly high sealing effect, so that almost no fluid can leak out through the truncated cone-shaped contact surface. Furthermore, no additional sealing elements, such as O-rings, are required.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, an outer shell of the first

[0032] The outer shell of one quick-connect element and an outer shell of the second quick-connect element each form an angle between 30° and 60°, preferably between 40° and 50°, and particularly preferably 45°. It has been found that an angle of 45° aligns the two corresponding quick-connect elements particularly well with one another, so that a connection can be established quickly, easily, and intuitively. Furthermore, contact between the two outer shells, which form an angle of 45°, promotes a particularly high sealing effect, so that almost no liquid can escape through the contact surface. Furthermore, no further sealing elements, e.g. O-rings, are required.

[0033] Conveniently, the first quick-connect element is arranged centrally in the grid, and the second quick-connect element is arranged centrally on an underside of the humidification unit, with the underside of the humidification unit facing the grid. A central arrangement of the humidification unit on the grid advantageously promotes the stability of the entire humidification device, thus preventing the humidification device from tipping over. Furthermore, the largest possible collecting surface is advantageously provided for the flowing liquid, which flows from the humidification unit via the grid into the liquid container, so that a surface, e.g., a table surface, does not become wet.

[0034] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the quick-connection system is designed as a bayonet connection. Advantageously, a bayonet connection offers particularly high stability and security due to its force-locking and form-locking properties, and a bayonet connection can be established and released easily, intuitively, quickly, and without tools or additional connecting elements.

[0035] The bayonet connection preferably comprises at least four anchor points with corresponding anchor recesses. This advantageously ensures that the humidification unit can be arranged flat on the grille, thus preventing displacement and / or tilting of the humidification unit relative to the grille. Furthermore, the at least four anchor points and the corresponding four anchor recesses ensure a particularly high degree of connection stability.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment, the quick-connect system comprises at least one position indicator. The position indicator immediately shows the user during assembly how the humidification unit should be aligned relative to the grille, allowing the humidification unit to be connected to the grille particularly quickly.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment, the bayonet connection requires a rotation of 180° around a rotation axis of the first quick-connect element relative to the second quick-connect element. In this case, corresponding anchor points can advantageously be arranged relatively far into the corresponding anchor recesses, thereby ensuring the stability and security of the connection.

[0038] The first quick-connect element of the grid expediently comprises at least one drainage hole. Advantageously, excess fluid can be removed from the first quick-connect element via drainage holes. Furthermore, drainage holes serve to improve cleaning, thus enabling flushing.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, the grid comprises locking elements and / or plug-in elements and / or recesses for a plug-in connection, wherein the basket structure is detachably connected to the grid via a plug-in system. Advantageously, the basket structure can be easily and intuitively connected to the grid via a plug-in connection. Furthermore, the basket structure can be easily removed from the grid or from the liquid container, for example, to clean the basket structure.

[0040] According to an alternative embodiment, the grating comprises, on a side facing the liquid container, wave breakers and / or baffles formed integrally with the grating. The wave breakers or baffles are advantageously arranged perpendicular to the grating below the grating. The wave breakers or baffles advantageously serve, on the one hand, as a type of support element for the grating, so that the grating is held spaced from the bottom of the liquid container by the wave breakers or baffles. On the other hand, the wave breakers or baffles advantageously serve to calm the liquid in the liquid container by providing defined calming zones for the wave breakers or baffles. These calming zones are arranged in a checkerboard pattern below the grating.

[0041] Preferably, the breakwaters and / or baffles include openings. Advantageously, the openings allow the liquid level in the liquid container to be constantly balanced, thus significantly reducing liquid spillage.

[0042] Conveniently, the grid features a level indicator designed as a float. The float allows users to easily determine whether there is sufficient liquid in the reservoir. This simple mechanical solution requires no external power supply, making the level indicator intuitive and economical.

[0043] Preferably, the float is movable along at least one guide. Tilting and / or jamming of the float is advantageously prevented by coupling it to a guide. This allows the float to reliably indicate an exact fill level to the user at all times.

[0044] According to an alternative embodiment, a silencer can be arranged between the basket structure and the distribution part. For example, to activate the humidification system during the night, it is possible to install a silencer between the distribution part and the basket structure. This advantageously reduces background noise to such an extent that the splashing of the liquid onto the basket structure is no longer or barely audible, allowing you to fall asleep undisturbed.

[0045] According to another alternative embodiment, the humidification device includes lighting. Advantageously, the humidification device is visible in dark environments due to the lighting. Furthermore, the time and / or the ambient temperature can be displayed via the lighting. For this purpose, the humidification device preferably includes a temperature sensor and / or a clock.

[0046] According to a further alternative embodiment, the liquid container and / or the humidification unit are temperature-controlled. This advantageously allows a user to set a defined temperature for the liquid, thus enabling individualized heat and mass transfer, which can improve mass transfer. Furthermore, even poorly soluble substances, such as an ointment, can be advantageously dissolved in a heated water bath, thus expanding the range of applications of the humidification device.

[0047] The pump preferably includes a Universal Serial Bus connector. The pump's electrical power supply is advantageously provided via a USB connection, allowing the pump to be powered, for example, via a rechargeable power bank.

[0048] According to an alternative embodiment, the liquid container comprises a dosing unit that can be filled with water-soluble and / or water-miscible substances. Advantageously, the dosing unit always allows a defined amount to be dispensed into the liquid contained in the liquid container, thus preventing overdosing or underdosing. According to another alternative embodiment, the liquid container comprises a filter element. The filter element assists in cleaning the liquid contained in the liquid container, removing unwanted contaminant particles such as dust from the liquid.

[0049] According to a further alternative embodiment, the air humidification device comprises a cover device. Advantageously, the cover device serves, on the one hand, as a splash guard and / or sound barrier during operation and, on the other hand, as protection against the unwanted ingress of dust and / or dirt particles while the air humidification device is not in operation.

[0050] The cover device preferably has slots and / or holes. To allow the humidification device to continue enriching the ambient air with water and / or salt, etc., even though the cover device covers the humidification device, the cover device advantageously has openings designed as slots and / or holes, particularly at a height of the basket structure.

[0051] The humidifier is conveniently designed as a mobile and portable tabletop device. The humidifier can be conveniently positioned anywhere, as long as a flat and solid surface is available. This makes it possible to place the humidifier on a desk, a windowsill, or a bedside table, for example.

[0052] According to an alternative embodiment, hook elements and corresponding cutouts for detachable connection are arranged on an outer wall of the humidification device. This advantageously opens up the possibility of individually providing a larger area for a humidification unit of the humidification device. Large-area humidification devices can be easily installed in this way, particularly in public buildings or rooms, offices, and even in private households. In particular, the height of the humidification device can be individually adjusted, with installation via the hook elements and the corresponding cutouts being simple and intuitive.

[0053] According to a further embodiment, the basket structure has at least one interruption. An interruption in the liquid flow advantageously promotes additional distribution of the liquid by promoting aerosol formation through more frequent splitting of the liquid droplets. Thus, even smaller liquid droplets can be generated, which have an even larger heat and mass transfer surface.

[0054] According to an alternative embodiment, the humidification unit includes a fan. Optionally, a fan can be used to provide forced convection of the ambient air in addition to natural convection, thus advantageously ensuring improved heat and mass transfer with respect to the liquid to be evaporated. Furthermore, the fan supports a drying process of the humidification unit for cleaning purposes.

[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, a method for producing an air humidification device is provided, comprising the following steps: manufacturing a one-piece air humidification unit using a three-dimensional printing process; and connecting a pump to the air humidification unit. The entire air humidification unit advantageously comprises an evaporation part with a basket structure having a first frame part and a second frame part, wherein the first frame part and the second frame part comprise a first support element and a second support element. Advantageously, the 3D printing process enables the production of several components in a single production step, without the need to assemble the individual components, since the air humidification unit is formed entirely in one piece. As a single assembly step, only the connection of a pump designed as a submersible pump to the air humidification unit is carried out.The humidification unit with the connected pump is then immediately ready for operation, provided that it is placed in a liquid container filled with a liquid so that the pump can suck the liquid from the liquid container.

[0056] The humidification unit is advantageously manufactured as a single piece with a distribution part and a grille using the three-dimensional printing process. Advantageously, additional components, such as support elements, can be arranged integrally with the humidification unit, allowing the humidification unit to be expanded as required using the 3D printing process without requiring any assembly steps.

[0057] According to one aspect of the invention, a system for measuring and monitoring the quality of ambient air with an air humidification device is provided, comprising a sensor, a first transmitting and receiving unit, and a second transmitting and receiving unit. The sensor sends signals to the second transmitting and receiving unit via the first transmitting and receiving unit, and the first transmitting and receiving unit and the second transmitting and receiving unit communicate with each other via an Internet of Things. The system is characterized in that a setpoint value of the ambient air can be compared with an actual value of the ambient air, and in that the air humidification device can be adjusted via a control and regulating unit so that the actual value of the ambient air approximates the setpoint value of the ambient air.Advantageously, a user can set a defined ambient air quality in a room via the system, whereby the ambient air is monitored over a longer period of time using a sensor.

[0058] The sensor is preferably an optical sensor that uses an infrared method, such as NDIR. The infrared sensor is advantageously a wireless sensor that is easy to install in a room.

[0059] The sensor expediently comprises a measurement that measures a carbon dioxide concentration, a temperature and a humidity of the ambient air. Advantageously, the most important parameters of the ambient air are measured regularly at short intervals, e.g. every 60 seconds, recorded and sent to a regulation and control unit, whereby the actual value is compared with the setpoint value of the ambient air so that regulation and / or control of the humidification device is initiated if the actual value deviates too significantly from the setpoint value of the ambient air. Threshold values ​​or tolerance values ​​and times can be specified by the user at which regulation or control of the humidification device should take place. For example, no measures should be carried out at night to avoid disturbing the peace and quiet.

[0060] Further advantages and features of the claimed invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment.

[0061] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] Fig. 1 shows a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of the air humidification device.

[0063] Fig. 2 shows the air humidification device from Fig. 1 in an assembled state.

[0064] Fig. 3 shows a perspective exploded view of another embodiment of the air humidification device.

[0065] Fig. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of the air humidification device.

[0066] Fig. 5 shows a side view of another embodiment of the air humidification device.

[0067] Fig. 6 shows a side view of another embodiment of the air humidification device.

[0068] Fig. 7 shows a schematic diagram of a system for measuring and monitoring the ambient air.

[0069] Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the air humidification device.

[0070] Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of the humidification unit from below from Fig. 8.

[0071] Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of the grid from above from Fig. 8.

[0072] Fig. 11 shows a sectional view of the humidification unit from Fig. 9.

[0073] Fig. 12 shows a perspective view of a bottom side of the grid from above from Fig. 10.

[0074] Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of another

[0075] Example of an air humidification device.

[0076] Fig. 14 shows a perspective view of a mounting option for the air humidification device.

[0077] Fig. 15 shows a front view of another

[0078] Example of an air humidification device.

[0079] Fig. 1 shows in a perspective exploded view a mobile and portable air humidification device 10 designed as a table-top device for use in indoor or outdoor spaces, comprising a liquid container 20 designed as a rectangular bowl and open at the top and an air humidification unit 30 which can be arranged in the liquid container 20.

[0080] Fig. 2 shows the air humidification device 10 from Fig. 1 in an assembled state in a perspective view.

[0081] According to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the liquid container 20 has a watertight bottom 21 and a watertight side wall 22 surrounding the bottom 21 and connected to the bottom 21 in a watertight manner. Furthermore, the liquid container 20 can be filled with a liquid 60. The liquid 60 preferably comprises a water-salt solution comprising water and sodium chloride.

[0082] The air humidification unit 30 has a cuboid-shaped evaporation part 31 with an open and porous basket structure 32, comprising a first end face 32a designed as an open and porous sprinkling surface, a second end face 32b designed as a base side and parallel to the first end face 32a, a first narrow side face 32c, a second narrow side face 32d parallel to the first narrow side face 32c, a first wide contact side 32e and a second wide contact side 32f parallel to the first wide contact side 32e. The first wide contact side 32e and the second wide contact side 32f are arranged orthogonally with respect to the first narrow side face 32c and the second narrow side face 32d, respectively.

[0083] Furthermore, the first narrow side surface 32c comprises a first plate-shaped frame part 33 with a first end 33a and with an opposite second end 33b, wherein a first support element 35 is arranged at the first end 33a of the first frame part 33, wherein the first support element 35 protrudes beyond the second end face 32b of the basket structure 32 of the evaporation part 31, which is designed as a base side, wherein the first support element 35 is arranged orthogonally with respect to the second end face 32b of the basket structure 32 of the evaporation part 31.

[0084] Furthermore, a first connection element 37 is arranged at the second end 33b of the first frame part 33, wherein the first connection element 37 protrudes beyond the first end face 32a of the basket structure 32 designed as a sprinkling surface, wherein the first connection element 37 is arranged orthogonally with respect to the first end face 32a of the basket structure 32 of the evaporation part 31.

[0085] Furthermore, the second narrow side surface 32d comprises a second plate-shaped frame part 34 with a first end 34a and an opposite second end 34b, wherein a second support element 36 is arranged at the first end 34a of the second frame part 34, wherein the second support element 36 protrudes beyond the second end face 32b of the basket structure 32 of the evaporation part 31, which is designed as the base side, wherein the second support element 36 is arranged orthogonally with respect to the second end face 32b of the basket structure 32 of the evaporation part 31, and wherein the first support element 35 and the second support element 36 are arranged parallel to one another. Furthermore, the first support element 35 is designed as a first plug-in element and the second support element 36 is designed as a second plug-in element.

[0086] Furthermore, a second connection element 38 is arranged at the second end 34b of the second frame part 34, wherein the second connection element 38 projects beyond the first end face 32a of the basket structure 32 designed as a sprinkling surface, wherein the second connection element 38 is arranged orthogonally with respect to the first end face 32a of the basket structure 32 of the evaporation part 31, and wherein the first connection element 37 and the second connection element 38 are arranged parallel to one another.

[0087] Furthermore, the first support element 35 and the second support element 36 as well as the first connecting element 37 and the second connecting element 38 each have a rectangular cross-sectional area.

[0088] Furthermore, the basket structure 32 is formed integrally with the first frame part 33 and the second frame part 34.

[0089] The first connecting element 37 further comprises a first horizontal plane 37a with a first recess 37b and a second recess 37c, each of which is formed as a blind hole. Furthermore, the second connecting element 38 comprises a second horizontal plane 38a with a first recess 38b and a second recess 38c, each of which is formed as a blind hole. Here, the first plane 37a of the first connecting element 37 and the second plane 38a of the second

[0090] Connecting element 38 is identical.

[0091] A distributor part 40 can be detachably connected via a plug connection via the first connection element 37 and the second connection element 38. The distributor part 40 has a first end 40a and a second end 40b, wherein the first end 40a of the distributor part has a first projection 41 and a second projection 42, wherein the second end 40b of the distributor part 40 has a first projection 43 and a second projection 44, wherein the first projection 41, 43 and the second projection 42, 44 of the first end 40a of the distributor part 40 correspond to the first recess 37b and the second recess 37c of the first connection element 37, and wherein the first projection 43 and the second projection 44 of the second end 40b of the distributor part 40 correspond to the first recess 38b and the second recess 38c of the second connection element 38. The distributor part 40 is thus detachably connected to the evaporation part 31 via a plug connection.

[0092] The distributor part 40 comprises an upper part 45, a lower part 46 and a connection 47 for the liquid 60, wherein the entire distributor part 40 is formed in one piece. The distributor part 40 is designed in the manner of a shower head with an inner hollow chamber. The lower part 46 comprises several openings 48, which are designed as holes and / or slots. The connection 47 serves as an inlet for the liquid 60, which spreads immediately after entering the hollow chamber of the distributor part 40 and wets the entire inner hollow chamber. The liquid 60 supplied to the connection 47 via a pump 70 leaves the distributor part 40 in droplet form via the openings 48, which serve as an outlet of the distributor part 40. The liquid 60 drips, among other things.due to gravity onto the first end face 32a of the basket structure 32, which is designed as a sprinkling surface, so that a vertical sprinkling direction of the liquid 60 is established. The open and free basket structure 32 of the evaporation part 31, which is porous for ambient air exchange, is arranged between the first frame part 33 and the second frame part 34. The basket structure 32 has the first contact side 32e and the second contact side 32f of the cuboid-shaped evaporation part 31, opposite the first contact side 32e. Furthermore, the basket structure 32 comprises the above-described first end face 32a and the opposite second end face 32b.

[0093] The basket structure 32 is designed as a three-dimensional, one-piece, open-porous fixed-bed body, the structure of which is a so-called gyroid. The basket structure 32 comprises a labyrinthine or coral-shaped and / or spiral-shaped surface with a triple periodic configuration, according to which the basket structure 32 provides an increased contact surface for mass transfer, with a solids volume fraction of the basket structure 32 being approximately 10%.

[0094] The gyroid structure comprises an infinitely connected periodic minimal surface with triple nodes, which contains no straight lines. Furthermore, the gyroid structure exhibits no reflection symmetries. Another advantage of the gyroid structure is that it ensures uniform mechanical strength in all directions, such as the xy and z planes, even though relatively little material is used to manufacture a gyroid structure, thus resulting in increased tensile and compressive strength.

[0095] The three-dimensional structure of the basket structure 32 enables a homogeneous distribution of the liquid 60 in the evaporation part 31, after which almost the entire surface of the basket structure 32 is wettable with liquid 60, so that the largest possible contact surface of the liquid 60 with the ambient air is provided.

[0096] The basket structure 32 is connected via the first contact side 32e and via the second

[0097] Contact side 32f can be flowed through with ambient air, so that a flow of the ambient air runs essentially transversely with respect to the sprinkling direction of the liquid 60 starting from the distributor part 40.

[0098] Furthermore, the basket structure 32 comprises a central, continuous channel 50, which includes a channel inlet 51, a channel outlet 52, and a channel wall 53. The channel inlet 51 is arranged within the second end face 32b, and the channel outlet 52 is arranged within the first end face 32a. The channel 50 has a linear path overall, into which a hose section 71 is inserted. The hose section 71 has a first end 71a and a second end 71b. The first end 71a serves for connection to a pipe section 72 of the pump 70, which is arranged in the liquid container 20. The opposite second end 71b serves for connection to the distributor part 40 via the connection 47.

[0099] As a result, the pump 70 removes the liquid 60 from the liquid container 20 on the suction side and conveys it on the pressure side in an upward direction to the distributor part 40, where the liquid 60 flows back down via a sprinkling of the basket structure 32 and is collected in the liquid container 20. After a dynamic start-up phase shortly after the pump 70 is switched on, a cycle of the flowing liquid 60 is established over time, whereby the liquid 60 is released into the ambient air over time via evaporation, and thus the liquid container 20 must be periodically refilled with liquid 60.

[0100] Furthermore, a grid 80 designed as a platform can be arranged in the liquid container 20. The grid 80 has a flat surface comprising a grid structure 80a and arranged parallel to the bottom 21 of the liquid container 20. The grid structure 80a has a mesh size of approximately 1 mm so that excess liquid 60 can easily flow through the grid 80 from top to bottom. The grid further comprises breakwaters 84 designed as supporting components, which, on the one hand, keep the grid 80 spaced from the bottom 21 of the liquid container 20 and, on the other hand, calm the liquid 60 within the liquid container 20, thus preventing overflow in a direction outside the liquid container 20. Furthermore, the breakwaters 84 are designed as thin rectangular plates that run orthogonally with respect to the grid structure 80a.In this embodiment, the breakwaters 84 are arranged in a checkerboard pattern below the lattice structure 80a.

[0101] Furthermore, a holder (not shown) for the pump 70 is integrated into the grid structure 80a. The holder comprises a first clamping element and an opposite second clamping element, both of which are elastically designed, such that the pump is inserted between the first clamping element and the second clamping element to hold the pump 70 in position within the liquid 60. Consequently, the wave breakers 84 of the grid 80, designed as supporting components, are placed on the bottom 21 of the liquid container 20, wherein the pump with the grid 80 has preferably already been mounted beforehand. Accordingly, the grid structure 80a is located approximately at the same height as the liquid 60 in the liquid container 20.

[0102] Furthermore, the grille 80 comprises a first rectangular recess 81, a second rectangular recess 82, and a circular third recess 83. The first recess 81 and the second recess 82 are assigned to the first support element 35 and the second support element 36, respectively, of the air humidification unit 30. The first support element 35 can be inserted into the first recess 81, and the second support element 36 can be inserted into the second recess 82. Thus, the air humidification unit 30 is detachably connected to the grille 80 via a simple plug-in connection. The third recess 83 is assigned to a pipe section 72 of the pump 70, wherein the pipe section 72 of the pump 70 can be inserted into the third recess 83 from below, and wherein the pipe section 72 protrudes at least partially beyond the grid structure 80a of the grid 80, so that a first end 71a of the hose 71 can be connected to the pipe section 72 via a plug connection.Accordingly, the pipe section 72 of the pump 70 is arranged facing away from the bottom 21 of the liquid container 20. In addition, the grid 80 comprises a float 85, which can be produced in a print-in-place process together with the grid 80 using a 3D printing process. The float 85 is designed as a hollow body that is at least partially buoyant, for example, in water. Using the float 85, a user can easily determine the liquid level required for operation of the air humidification device 10 and, if the liquid level in the liquid container 20 is too low, can periodically refill the liquid 60. Furthermore, it is possible to equip the float 85 with markings, for example, color markings, in order to increase user-friendliness.

[0103] Fig. 3 shows a silencer 90 designed as an accessory part, which can be inserted into the air humidification device 10. The air humidification device 10 in Fig. 3 corresponds to the identical air humidification device according to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Thus, identical components have identical reference numerals. The silencer 90 can be arranged between the basket structure 32 and the distributor part 40. The silencer 90 has a cuboid-shaped body 91, with a U-shaped recess 92 arranged in the center of the cuboid-shaped body 91, which runs perpendicular to a longitudinal extent of the cuboid-shaped body 91. The U-shaped recess 92 serves to ensure that the connection 47 of the distributor part 40 does not block insertion of the silencer 90 into the air humidification device 10.

[0104] Furthermore, the silencer 90 comprises a plurality of holes 93 designed as separate channels. The holes 93 run from an upper broad side 91a of the cuboid-shaped body 91 to a lower broad side 91b of the cuboid-shaped body 91 of the silencer 90. An arrangement of the holes 93 of the silencer 90 corresponds to an arrangement of the openings 48 of the distributor part 40. The holes 93 of the silencer 90 are larger than the openings 48 of the distributor part, so that the liquid 60 can flow or drip unhindered through the holes 93 of the silencer 90. As a result, the use of the silencer 90 enables quiet operation of the air humidification device 10, so that splashing noises of the liquid 60 are reduced.

[0105] Fig. 4 shows a side view of another embodiment of an air humidification device 10'. Here, the spherical basket structure 32' of the air humidification unit 30' is connected to the liquid container 20' via a plug-in system. Furthermore, the base 21' of the liquid container 20' has at least one projection configured as a first fastening element. The air humidification unit 30' comprises at least one second fastening element corresponding to the first fastening element, which is arranged on an underside of the air humidification unit 30' and configured as a support element T. The first fastening element of the liquid container 20' and the second fastening element of the air humidification unit 30' are thus plugged into one another to ensure a stable arrangement of the air humidification unit 30' in the liquid container 20'.As a result, the humidification unit 30' is connected directly to the liquid container 20' via a detachable plug connection, so that the grid 80 can be omitted.

[0106] Furthermore, the pump 70 is arranged below the basket structure 32', which pumps the liquid 60 from the liquid container 20' vertically upward through a channel 50' from a channel inlet 51' to a channel outlet 52'. The liquid 60 exiting at the channel outlet 52' is distributed radially over the basket structure 32', so that an additional distributor part 40 can be omitted. Furthermore, the channel 50' comprises radial openings in the longitudinal direction, so that the liquid between the channel inlet 51' and the channel outlet 52' can already penetrate radially through the openings into the immediately adjacent basket structure 32' and wet the basket structure 32'.

[0107] Fig. 5 shows a side view of a further embodiment of the air humidification device 100 with an alternative design of a distributor part 140, which is shown, among other things, as a dashed line. Here, the air humidification device 100 corresponds to the air humidification device 10 from Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, wherein the distributor part 140 of the air humidification device 100 is provided with an upper part 145 and a lower part

[0108] 146 is formed, wherein the upper part 145 and the lower part 146 are arranged separately, and wherein the upper part 145 and the lower part 146 are fluidically connected to one another via two vertical connecting channels 149.

[0109] The liquid 60 is pumped from the liquid container 20 via the pump 70 through a channel inlet 151 in an upward direction to a connection

[0110] 147 of the distributor part 140, so that the liquid 60 initially flows into the upper part 145 of the distributor part 140 via a channel outlet 152 of the channel 50. The connection 147 is thus only connected to the upper part 145, so that the liquid 60 can initially flow into the upper part 145.

[0111] The liquid 60 is then evenly introduced into the connecting channels 149, so that the liquid 60 is fed into the lower part 146 of the distributor part 140, which is designed as a trickling element. In this exemplary embodiment, the lower part 146 is integrated into the basket structure 320 or formed integrally with the basket structure 320. Furthermore, the lower part 146 has a plurality of openings 148 so that the liquid 60 can leave the lower part 146 via the openings 148, after which the basket structure 320 is directly wetted with the liquid 60. The liquid 60 flows from the lower part 146 toward the liquid container 20 from top to bottom through the basket structure 320, thus generating circulation of the liquid 60 in the air humidification device 100. The arrows 61 schematically indicate a flow direction 61 of the liquid 60.

[0112] Furthermore, the upper part 145 and the two connecting channels 149 of the distribution part 140 are formed integrally with the first support element 35 and the second support element 36. Consequently, the basket structure 320 of the evaporation part 310 is formed integrally with the distribution part 140 and the two support elements 35, 36.

[0113] Fig. 6 shows a further embodiment of an air humidification device 100', which essentially corresponds to the air humidification device 100 from Fig. 5. Here, the channel 50 of the air humidification device 100', which is shown, among other things, by means of dashed lines, comprises a plurality of horizontal distribution channels 150, which are fluidically connected to the channel 50, so that the liquid 60 can at least partially flow from the channel 50 into the horizontal distribution channels 150. The horizontal distribution channels 150 are arranged essentially perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the channel 50, wherein the horizontal distribution channels 150 are shown only as a single horizontal distribution channel 150 by means of dashed lines for reasons of clarity.Furthermore, the horizontal distribution channel 150 comprises a plurality of openings 154 along an inner circumferential surface of a channel wall 153, so that the liquid 60 can penetrate directly into the basket structure 320' via the openings 154. Consequently, the channel 50 and the horizontal distribution channels 150 are integrated within the basket structure 320', so that the channel 50, the horizontal distribution channels 150, and the basket structure 320' are formed integrally.

[0114] The invention works as follows:

[0115] First, the pump 70 is attached with its pipe section 72 to an underside of the grid 80 so that the pipe section 72 is arranged in the third recess 83. Then, the grid 80 with the attached pump 70 is inserted into the still empty liquid container 20 so that the wave breakers 84 rest on the bottom 21 of the liquid container 20.

[0116] Furthermore, a hose 71 is inserted into the channel 50 of the basket structure 32, 320, 320', so that the hose 71 protrudes slightly on both end faces 32a, 32b of the basket structure 32, 320, 320'. Consequently, the air humidification unit 30, 300, 300' can be mounted via the first support element 35 and the second support element 36 into the first recess 81 and the second recess 82, respectively, via a plug-in connection, wherein the first end 71a of the hose 71 is connected to the pipe section 72 of the pump 70. Furthermore, the distributor part 40 is mounted on top of the humidification unit 30 by connecting the connector 47 to the second end 71b of the hose 71 and by inserting the projections 41, 42 of the distributor part 40 into the corresponding recesses 37b, 37c, 38b, 38c of the first connecting element 37 and the second connecting element 38 of the humidification unit 30, respectively.

[0117] Now, a liquid 60, e.g., a water-salt solution, is poured into the liquid container 20 until the float 85 indicates a sufficient level of the liquid 60 for operation. Furthermore, the pump 70 is connected via a USB port, e.g., to a power bank, which supplies the pump 70 with power. The air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100' is thus ready for operation. The liquid 60 can be enriched with additional salt as needed to create a desired concentration of the water-salt solution. The air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100' can therefore be operated independently of the salt concentration of the liquid 60.

[0118] The air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100' is manufactured using a 3D printing process in which either all components can be manufactured individually or in which the components, for example the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300', are preferably manufactured in one piece. Plastics such as polylactide (PLA) or polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) and / or ceramics are used as materials for the 3D printing process. The production of an air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100', which comprises at least one ceramic material, is carried out at least using a stereolithography process (lithography-based ceramic manufacturing). Advantageously, plastic material and / or ceramic material is more hygienic in use than, for example, pure wood material, because the growth of microorganisms, e.g. bacteria, fungi and biofilms, is reduced through the use of plastic material and / or ceramic material.

[0119] Furthermore, plastic or ceramic material is easier to clean.

[0120] Fig. 7 schematically shows a system for measuring and monitoring the quality of the ambient air with an air humidification device 10, comprising a sensor S, a first transmitting and receiving unit SE1, and a second transmitting and receiving unit SE2. The first transmitting and receiving unit SE1 is arranged adjacent to the sensor S, and the sensor S communicates with the first transmitting and receiving unit SE1.

[0121] Furthermore, the second transmitting and receiving unit SE2 is arranged adjacent to the air humidification device 10, wherein the air humidification device 10 communicates with the second transmitting and receiving unit SE2. Furthermore, a third transmitting and receiving unit SE3, e.g., a mobile phone or a smartphone, is provided, which communicates with the first and / or second transmitting and receiving unit SE1, SE2.

[0122] The sensor S, which is designed as an optical infrared sensor (NDIR), measures, among other things, a carbon dioxide concentration, a temperature and a humidity of the ambient air, wherein the sensor S sends signals or commands to the second transmitting and receiving unit SE2 or to the third transmitting and receiving unit SE3 via the first transmitting and receiving unit SE1, wherein the first transmitting and receiving unit SE1 and the second transmitting and receiving unit SE2 and the third transmitting and receiving unit SE3 communicate with each other via an Internet of Things (IoT).

[0123] During a measurement via sensor S, a predetermined target value of the ambient air is compared with a detected and recorded actual value of the ambient air. If the actual value deviates too significantly from the target value, the first transmitting and receiving unit SE1 sends a signal to the second or third transmitting and receiving unit SE2, SE3, respectively, so that a control and regulation unit regulates or controls the air humidification device 10 such that an actual value approaches the target value of the ambient air. For example, a flow rate of the liquid 60 is increased via a controllable speed of the pump 70, or new, fresh liquid 60 is gradually added from outside into the liquid container 20, 20'.

[0124] As a result, a user can control the ambient air in a closed room using this system and adjust it according to his needs.

[0125] Fig. 8 shows an alternative fastening option for attaching the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' to the grille 80 of the air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100' via a quick-connect system 120. The quick-connect system 120 is designed as a bayonet connection. The grille 80 comprises a first female quick-connect element 100 in the center, which is integrated into the grille structure 80a. The air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' comprises a corresponding second male quick-connect element 110, which is arranged below the basket structure 32, 32', 320, 320' centrally on an underside 30a of the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300'. Furthermore, the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' has a rotation axis A.

[0126] In Fig. 9, the underside 30a of the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' is shown better, so that it can now be seen that the second quick-connect element 110 is designed as a truncated cone-shaped hollow body, comprising an outer shell 110a, several anchor points 121 and at least one position indicator 123. The anchor points 121 are designed as tooth-shaped elevations which extend along a circular circumference from the outer shell 110a in an outward direction and / or in an inward direction.

[0127] The position indicator 123 is formed as a triangular cutout in the outer casing 110a of the second quick-connect element 110. Using the position indicator 123, a user can quickly and easily align the humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' above the grille 80 and couple the first quick-connect element 100 and the second quick-connect element 110 together.

[0128] Fig. 10 shows the first quick-connect element 100 of the grille 80 in a perspective view from above. It can be seen that the first quick-connect element 100 is designed as a negative frustoconical configuration with an outer shell 100a, into which the positive second quick-connect element 110 of the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' can be inserted. Furthermore, the first quick-connect element 100 comprises corresponding anchor recesses 122 in which the anchor points 121 can be arranged.

[0129] To connect the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' to the grille 80, both components are first aligned such that the anchor points 121 each rest in a corresponding insertion section of the anchor recesses 122. Furthermore, corresponding position indicators 123 support the correct alignment of the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' to the grille 80. The air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' is then rotated 180° about the rotation axis A relative to the grille 80, so that the anchor points 121 engage in the anchor recesses 122 with a force-fitting and positive fit. Consequently, a stable and secure connection is produced, which also has a good sealing effect due to the contact surface of the two frustoconical outer shells 100a, 110a of the first quick-connect element 100 and the second quick-connect element 110.

[0130] In a lower region, which faces away from the grid structure 80a of the grid 80, the first quick-connect element 100 comprises a plurality of drainage holes. Excess liquid can flow from the first quick-connect element 100 into the liquid container 20, 20' via the drainage holes. Fig. 11 shows a sectional view of the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300', wherein the hollow body of the second quick-connect element 110 is more clearly visible. Furthermore, it can be seen that the frustoconical second quick-connect element 110 forms an angle α with the underside 30a of the air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300'. The angle α here is 45°.

[0131] Fig. 12 shows an underside of the grid 80, wherein it can be seen that the wave breakers 84 have rib-like baffles 86 and openings 87. The baffles 86 and the openings 87 help to calm the liquid 60 in the liquid container 20, 20', thus preventing the liquid 60 from spilling out of the liquid container 20, 20'. Furthermore, the baffles 86 and the openings 87 are arranged at an angle of 45°.

[0132] Furthermore, according to Fig. 12, the float 85 can now be displaced back and forth along two guides 85a, the guides 85a being dovetail-shaped in this case. Accordingly, the float 85 is positively coupled to the two guides 85a with some play. Furthermore, the guides 85a are arranged at a 90° angle to each other.

[0133] Fig. 13 shows an alternative embodiment of a humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300', according to which the humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300' can now be assembled intuitively and user-friendly from several individual blocks 201, 202, 203 via plug-in and locking components 204 to form a modular block system 200. The plug-in and locking components 204 are arranged in corresponding recesses 205, after which a detachable connection is established.

[0134] Fig. 14 schematically shows another connection system for an air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100', wherein an outer wall 11 of the air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100' comprises a plurality of hook elements 12 and corresponding cutouts 13 that can be engaged with one another. Thus, a detachable connection can be established between several air humidification devices 10, 10', 100, 100'.

[0135] Fig. 15 shows a further alternative embodiment of an air humidification unit 30, 30', 300, 300', wherein the basket structure 32, 32', 320, 320' now has a plurality of interruptions G. The interruptions G are essentially formed as rectangular cutouts in the basket structure 32, 32', 320, 320', wherein only the liquid-carrying channel 50 within the interruption G is visible.

[0136] The invention has been described above with reference to a basket structure 32, 32', 320, 320'. It is understood that the above-described basket structure 32, 32', 320, 320' is not limited to air humidification devices 10, 10', 100, 100' configured as a mobile tabletop device. The basket structure 32, 32', 320, 320', which preferably has a gyroid structure, can also be used for large-area air humidification devices for indoor and outdoor areas, which can also be manufactured using the 3D printing process.

[0137] The invention has been described above with reference to an air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100', which can be manufactured from a plastic and / or a ceramic material using a 3D printing process. It is understood that the air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100' comprises at least partially metallic materials, e.g., an aluminum alloy and / or stainless steel.

[0138] The invention has been described above with reference to an air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100', which can be produced from a plastic and / or a ceramic material using a 3D printing process. It is understood that the air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100' can be produced at least partially from a composite material comprising a wood material and a plastic material using a 3D printing process, wherein the composite material has a wood material content in a range between 15% and 40%, preferably 20%, whereby the ambient air can advantageously be enriched with, among other things, a wood fragrance.

[0139] The invention has been described above with reference to an air humidification device 10, 10', 100, 100', in which a pump 70 is arranged within the

[0140] Liquid container 20, 20'. It is understood that the pump can also be arranged outside the liquid container 20, 20'.

[0141] For example, the pump can be designed as a suction pump and arranged above the basket structure 32, 32', 320, 320', after which the pump functions as a kind of distribution part.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. An air humidification device (10, 10', 100, 100'), comprising a liquid container (20, 20'); a humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300'); and a pump (70) for supplying the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') with liquid (60) from the liquid container (20, 20'); wherein the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') comprises an evaporation part (31, 310, 310'), wherein the pump (70) is connected on the pressure side to the evaporation part (31, 310, 310'), characterized in that the evaporation part (31, 31', 310, 310') has an open porous basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') made of plastic, which is produced using a three-dimensional printing process.

2. Air humidification device according to claim 1, characterized in that the porous basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') has a solid volume fraction in a range between 2% and 85%, preferably between 6% and 12% and particularly preferably 10%.

3. Air humidification device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') has a gyroid structure at least in sections.

4. Air humidification device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') can be exposed to and / or flowed through by free ambient air by means of free convection.

5. Air humidification device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') has a cuboid and / or a cube-shaped outer shape, which can be flowed against and / or through from at least two sides transversely to a direction of extension of the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') by means of free convection.

6. Air humidification device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') has a cylindrical and / or a spherical outer shape, so that the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') can be flowed against and / or through from all directions by means of free convection.

7. Air humidification device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') is formed integrally with at least one support element (35, 36, T), and that the support element (35, 36, T) is arranged at the end in the liquid container (20, 20').

8. Air humidification device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') comprises a distributor part (40, 140), that the distributor part (40, 140) comprises an upper part (45, 145) and a lower part (46, 146) opposite the upper part (45, 145) and designed as a perforated trickling element, wherein the upper part (45, 145) and the lower part (46, 146) are connected to one another, and wherein the distributor part (40, 140) has at least one connection (47, 147) for an inlet of the liquid (60) from the liquid container (20, 20').

9. Air humidification device according to claim 8, characterized in that a hollow chamber with at least one groove is formed between the upper part (45, 145) and the lower part (46, 146).

10. Air humidification device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the distributor part (40) is arranged above the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320'), that the lower part (46) designed as a trickling element faces the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320'), so that the liquid (60) fed to the distributor part (40) can trickle down onto the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320'), preferably in the form of drops.

11. Air humidification device according to claim 8, characterized in that the upper part (145) and the lower part (146) of the distributor part (140) are connected via at least one connecting channel (149), that the upper part (145) of the distributor part (140) is arranged above the basket structure (320, 320'), and that the lower part (146) designed as a trickling element is arranged within the basket structure (320, 320'), so that the liquid (60) fed to the distributor part (140) can be fed to the evaporation part (310, 310') within the basket structure (320, 320').

12. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the evaporation part (31, 31', 310, 310') comprises at least one channel (50) which has at least one channel inlet (51, 151, 151') and at least one channel outlet (52, 152, 152'), and that the liquid (60) can flow out of the liquid container (20, 20') through the channel (50).

13. Air humidification device according to claim 12, characterized in that the channel (50) has a channel wall (53) which is at least partially perforated, so that the liquid (60) flowing through the channel (50) can leave the channel (50) via openings in a direction transverse to a flow direction of the liquid (60) and can penetrate directly into the adjacent basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320').

14. Air humidification device according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that at least one distribution channel (150) branches off from the channel (50) transversely to a longitudinal direction of the channel (50), so that the liquid (60) flowing through the channel (50) can at least partially leave the channel (50) via the distribution channel (150), wherein the at least one distribution channel (150) has a channel wall (153) which is perforated at least in sections and has at least one opening (154), so that the liquid (60) can penetrate directly into the adjacent basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320').

15. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims as far as dependent on claim 8, characterized in that at least one hose section (71) and / or one pipe section (72) connects the pump (70) to the evaporation part (31, 31', 310, 310') and / or to the distributor part (40, 140).

16. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid (60) for supplying the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') is at least partially a solution containing water and at least one salt and / or mineral soluble in the water and / or substances soluble and / or miscible in water.

17. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid (60) contains fragrances and / or aromas.

18. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the entire air humidification device is manufactured in one piece.

19. Air humidification device according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') is designed as a modular block system (200), and that individual blocks (201, 202, 203) can be releasably connected to one another via plug-in and locking components (204) and corresponding recesses (205).

20. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plate-shaped grid (80) is inserted in the liquid container (20, 20'), and that the grid (80) is arranged parallel with respect to a bottom (21, 21') of the liquid container (20, 20').

21. Air humidification device according to claim 20, characterized in that the grille (80) has a first quick-connection element (100), and that the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') has a corresponding second quick-connection element (110), so that the grille (80) and the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') can be detachably connected via a quick-connection system (120).

22. Air humidification device according to claim 21, characterized in that the first quick-connection element (100) and the second quick-connection element (110) are each frustoconical.

23. Air humidification device according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that an outer casing (100a) of the first quick-connection element (100) and that an outer casing (110a) of the second quick-connection element (110) each have an angle (a) between 30° and 60°, preferably between 40° and 50°, and particularly preferably 45°.

24. Air humidification device according to one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that the first quick-connection element (100) is arranged centrally in the grid (80), and that the second quick-connecting element (110) is arranged centrally on an underside (30a) of the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300'), wherein the underside (30a) of the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') faces the grid (80).

25. Air humidification device according to one of claims 21 to 24, characterized in that the quick connection system (120) is designed as a bayonet connection.

26. Air humidification device according to claim 25, characterized in that the bayonet connection comprises at least four anchor points (121) with corresponding anchor recesses (122).

27. Air humidification device according to one of claims 21 to 26, characterized in that the quick connection system (120) comprises at least one position indicator (123).

28. Air humidification device according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that for the bayonet connection a rotation about a rotation axis (A) of the first quick-connecting element (100) relative to the second quick-connecting element (110) of 180° is required.

29. Air humidification device according to one of claims 21 to 28, characterized in that the first quick-connection element (100) of the grid (80) comprises at least one drainage hole.

30. Air humidification device according to claim 20, characterized in that the grid (80) comprises locking elements and / or plug-in elements and / or recesses (81, 82, 83) for a plug-in connection, and that the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') is detachably connected to the grid (80) via a plug-in system.

31. Air humidification device according to one of claims 20 to 30, characterized in that the grid (80) comprises, on a side facing the liquid container (20, 20'), wave breakers (84) and / or baffles (86) which are formed integrally with the grid (80).

32. Air humidification device according to claim 31, characterized in that the wave breakers (84) and / or baffles (86) comprise openings (87).

33. Air humidification device according to one of claims 20 to 32, characterized in that the grid (80) comprises a level indicator designed as a float (85).

34. Air humidification device according to claim 33, characterized in that the float (85) is displaceable along at least one guide (85a).

35. Air humidification device according to claim 10, characterized in that a silencer (90) can be arranged between the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') and the distributor part (40, 140).

36. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air humidification device comprises lighting.

37. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid container (20, 20') and / or the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') can be tempered.

38. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pump (70) comprises a USB connection element.

39. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid container (20, 20') comprises a dosing unit which can be filled with water-soluble and / or water-miscible substances.

40. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid container (20, 20') comprises a filter element. 41 . Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air humidification device comprises a covering device.

42. Air humidification device according to claim 41, characterized in that the covering device has slots and / or holes.

43. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air humidification device is a mobile and transportable table-top device.

44. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that hook elements (12) and corresponding cutouts (13) for detachable connection are arranged on an outer wall (11) of the air humidification device.

45. Air humidification device according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the basket structure (32, 32', 320, 320') has at least one interruption (G).

46. ​​Air humidification device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') comprises a fan.

47. A method for producing an air humidification device, in particular an air humidification device (10, 10', 100, 100') according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: Manufacturing a one-piece air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') by means of a three-dimensional printing process; and Connecting a pump (70) to the humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300').

48. Method according to claim 47, characterized in that the air humidification unit (30, 30', 300, 300') is manufactured in one piece with a distributor part (40, 140) and with a grid (80) by means of the three-dimensional printing process.

49. System for measuring and monitoring the quality of the ambient air with an air humidification device (10, 10', 100, 100') according to one of claims 1 to 46, comprising a sensor (S), a first transmitting and receiving unit (SE1), and a second transmitting and receiving unit (SE2), wherein the sensor (S) sends signals to the second transmitting and receiving unit (SE2) via the first transmitting and receiving unit (SE1), wherein the first transmitting and receiving unit (SE1) and the second transmitting and receiving unit (SE2) communicate with each other via an Internet of Things (IoT), characterized in that a setpoint value of the ambient air is compared with an actual value of the Ambient air can be adjusted, and that the air humidification device (10, 10', 100, 100') can be adjusted via a regulating and control unit (C) so that the actual value of the ambient air is approximated to the setpoint value of the ambient air.

50. System according to claim 49, characterized in that the sensor (S) is an optical sensor using an infrared method, in particular NDIR.

51. System according to claim 49 or 50, characterized in that the sensor (S) comprises a measurement that measures a carbon dioxide concentration, a temperature, and a humidity of the ambient air.

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