Humidifier

Abstract

To provide a humidifier which can suppress an installation place being wet by the dropping of water droplets.SOLUTION: A humidifier A1 includes: a body 1; a suction port 151 and a blowout port 54; a tank 2; a humidifying part 6 including a pool 61, a heating part 62, and a mist generation part 63; an opening part 122 for guiding the air sucked from the suction port 151 to the heating part 62 side; a blower part 7 for delivering the air which has passed the opening part 122 and whose temperature is raised by the heating part 62; a first air passage formation part 8A in which an air passage is formed where the air blown by the blower part 7 flows; and a second air passage formation part 8B in which mixed air where the air from the first air passage formation part 8A and steam and mist generated by the humidifying part 6 are mixed flows, and in which an air passage is formed where the mixed air is guided to the blowout port 54.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a humidifier. [Background technology]

[0002] Humidifiers are widely used as devices for increasing the humidity of air indoors or the like to a desired level. Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a conventional humidifier. The humidifier in this document is a so-called ultrasonic humidifier. Mist is generated by applying an ultrasonic oscillator to water supplied from a tank. The mist is discharged to the outside from an outlet, thereby increasing the humidity of the surrounding air. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-264724 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The air discharged from the outlet contains many tiny water droplets in a mist state. These water droplets may fall onto the floor or other surfaces around the humidifier before evaporating into the surrounding air. This can cause the floor or other surfaces on which the humidifier is installed to become unduly wet.

[0005] The present invention has been devised in light of the above-mentioned circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a humidifier that can prevent the installation location from getting wet due to falling water droplets. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The humidifier provided by the present invention comprises a main body, an air inlet located at the bottom of the main body and an outlet located at the top of the main body, a tank located within the main body and supplying water, a humidifying section including a pool capable of storing water supplied from the tank, a heating section which heats the water in the pool to generate steam, and a mist generating section which turns the water in the pool into mist, an opening which guides air sucked in from the inlet towards the heating section, an air blowing section which passes through the opening and blows out air which has been heated by the heating section, a first air path forming section in which an air path is formed through which the air blown by the air blowing section flows, and a second air path forming section in which an air path is formed through which mixed air, which is a mixture of air from the first air path forming section and steam and mist generated by the humidifying section, flows and is guided to the air outlet.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second air passage forming portion includes a tubular portion whose upper end portion constitutes the air outlet, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​a portion of the tubular portion located below the air outlet.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the air outlet blows out the mixed air horizontally upward and toward the opposite side to the air inlet, and a humidity measuring unit is arranged in the path from the air inlet to the opening.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the main body has a horizontally extending top surface, the air outlet opens into the top surface, and the angle between the direction in which the mixed air is blown out and the top surface is greater than or equal to 30° and less than 60°.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the blower section includes a sirocco fan.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the opening includes a first opening located below the heating section and farther from the air blowing section than the center of the heating section, and a second opening located below the heating section and closer to the air blowing section than the center of the heating section.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the heating unit includes a heater support member that supports the heating unit from below, a temperature sensor attached to the heating unit, and a sensor support member that supports the temperature sensor, and the heater support member has a clamping portion that clamps the temperature sensor. Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent the installation location from getting wet due to falling water droplets.

[0014] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a humidifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a humidifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a humidifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a humidifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 1 is a plan view showing a main part of a humidifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 6 is a cross-sectional view of a main portion taken along line VI-VI in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view of a main part taken along line VII-VII in FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII in FIG. 5. [Figure 9]6 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a main part taken along line IX-IX in FIG. 5. [Figure 10] 6 is a cross-sectional view of a main part taken along line XX in FIG. 5. [Figure 11] 6 is a cross-sectional view of a main part taken along line XI-XI in FIG. 5. [Figure 12] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII-XII in FIG. 5. [Figure 13] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a humidifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a main part of a humidifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the essential parts of a humidifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the essential parts of a humidifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a main part of a humidifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 11A and 11B are a perspective view and a bottom view, respectively, showing a heating part of a humidifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] 18. (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIXa-XIXa in FIG. 18, (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIXb-XIXb, and (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIXc-XIXc. [Figure 20] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a humidifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First Embodiment 1 to 12 show a humidifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The humidifier A1 of this embodiment includes a main body 1, a tank 2, a humidifying section 6, a blowing section 7, a first air passage forming section 8A, and a second air passage forming section 8B, and further includes an inlet 151 and an outlet 54 described below. The humidifier A1 of the illustrated example includes a lower structure 3, an intermediate structure 4, and an upper structure 5 as examples of specific members for configuring the humidifying section 6, the blowing section 7, the first air passage forming section 8A, and the second air passage forming section 8B. Furthermore, the humidifier A1 includes a control section 91, a display section 92, a power cord 93, and a temperature and humidity sensor 94. For ease of understanding, the main body 1 and the tank 2 are omitted in FIGS. 5, 7, 8, and 10 to 12.

[0017] The z direction in each figure corresponds to the up-down direction when the humidifier A1 is installed for normal use, and the upper side may be referred to as the z1 side and the lower side as the z2 side. The x direction and the y direction are both perpendicular to the z direction and perpendicular to each other, and correspond to the horizontal direction. One side of the x direction may be referred to as the x1 side, and the other side as the x2 side. Moreover, one side of the y direction may be referred to as the y1 side, and the other side as the y2 side.

[0018] [Main unit 1] As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the main body 1 constitutes most of the external appearance of the humidifier A1. Moreover, as shown in Figs. 4, 6 and 9, the main body 1 houses most of the other components of the humidifier A1. There is no limitation on the specific configuration of the main body 1, such as its shape and size. There is no limitation on the material of the main body 1, and for example, a resin such as plastic or a metal may be appropriately selected. The main body 1 may be formed as a whole in one piece, or may be composed of a plurality of members for the convenience of assembly, disassembly and maintenance.

[0019] In the illustrated example, the body 1 comprises a body portion 11 , a base portion 12 , a top panel 13 , side panels 14 and a bottom panel 15 .

[0020] The trunk 11 constitutes the majority of the main body 1 and is generally cylindrical and extends in the z direction. The bottom 12 is attached to the z2 side of the trunk 11 in the z direction and closes the z2 side of the trunk 11. As shown in Figs. 4, 6 and 9, the bottom 12 has a suction recess 121 and an opening 122. The suction recess 121 is a portion recessed toward the z1 side in the z direction and is a passage for air sucked in from an inlet 151 described later. The opening 122 is provided on the x2 side of the suction recess 121 in the x direction and on the y1 side in the y direction, and is a portion that opens in the z direction. The opening 122 is located on the z2 side in the z direction of a back surface 622 of a heating unit 62 described later.

[0021] The top panel 13 is attached to the z1 side of the body 11 and closes the z1 side of the body 11. The top panel 13 has a top surface 131 and blowing holes 132. The top surface 131 is a flat surface facing the z1 side in the z direction and is the surface located at the top of the humidifier A1 in the z direction. The blowing holes 132 open on the top surface 131 and are a portion through which a blowing outlet 54 described below faces the outside. The blowing holes 132 are disposed on the x1 side of the top surface 131 in the x direction. For ease of understanding, the top surface 131 and the blowing holes 132 are shown by imaginary lines in FIG. 12.

[0022] The side panel 14 is a member that closes an opening portion on the z2 side in the z direction of the body 11. An opening is provided in the side panel 14, and a display unit 92 is disposed in this opening.

[0023] Bottom panel 15 is attached to bottom 12 so as to cover suction recess 121 of bottom 12. Bottom panel 15 has suction port 151. Suction port 151 is a portion that sucks in air blown by blower unit 7. In this embodiment, bottom panel 15 is provided at the z2 end of main body 1 in the z direction, and is disposed on the x1 side in the x direction and on the y2 side in the y direction.

[0024] [Tank 2] The tank 2 stores and supplies water necessary for the humidifier A1 to perform the humidifying function. There is no limitation on the specific configuration of the tank 2. As shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 6, the tank 2 of this embodiment has a tank body 21, a handle 22, a filter unit 23, a water quality improvement unit 24, and a water supply valve 25.

[0025] The tank body 21 is a portion for storing water, and is removably housed in the trunk 11 of the main body 1. In the illustrated example, the tank body 21 has a bottomed container shape with the z direction as the depth direction. There are no limitations on the material of the tank body 21, and resin, for example, is used. The handle 22 is used by the user to carry the tank body 21. In the illustrated example, the handle 22 is attached to the inner surface of the tank body 21, and is rotatable.

[0026] The filter section 23 is for removing dust and the like from the water supplied from the tank body 21, and is disposed at the z2 end in the z direction of the tank body 21. The water quality improvement section 24 functions to improve the quality of the water stored in the tank body 21, and is configured to generate, for example, Ag (silver) ions.

[0027] The water supply valve 25 supplies water from the tank body 21, and is attached to an opening at the z2 side end in the z direction of the tank body 21. When maintaining the water stored in the tank body 21, the water supply valve 25 is closed. When supplying water from the tank body 21, the water supply valve 25 is opened. There are no limitations on the operating mechanism of the water supply valve 25, and in this embodiment, the opening and closing operation is achieved by a float 26 arranged in a first storage section 31 described below.

[0028] [Lower structure 3] As shown in Figs. 4, 6 and 9, the lower structure 3 is disposed on the z2 side of the tank 2 in the z direction, and is housed on the z2 side of the main body 1 in the z direction. The material of the lower structure 3 is not limited in any way, and for example, a resin or the like is used. The specific structure of the lower structure 3 is not limited in any way. As shown in Figs. 4, 5 to 12, the lower structure 3 of this embodiment has a first storage section 31, a second storage section 32, a third storage section 33, a flow path 34, an ascending tube section 35 and a weir section 36.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 6, the first storage section 31 is a section that stores water supplied from the tank body 21. As shown in FIG. 5, in this embodiment, the first storage section 31 is disposed on the y2 side in the y direction of the lower structure 3. In this embodiment, the float 26 rotates up and down depending on the water level of the first storage section 31. With this mechanism, when the water level of the first storage section 31 drops, the float 26 opens the water supply valve 25 and supplies water from the tank body 21. When the water level of the first storage section 31 reaches or exceeds an appropriate water level, the float 26 closes the water supply valve 25 and stops the supply of water from the tank body 21.

[0030] Second storage section 32 is a section for heating water supplied from tank body 21. Second storage section 32 is disposed on the y1 side in the y direction and on the x2 side in the x direction with respect to first storage section 31. In this embodiment, the capacity of second storage section 32 is smaller than the capacity of first storage section 31.

[0031] The third storage section 33 is a section for turning water supplied from the tank body 21 into mist. The third storage section 33 is disposed between the first storage section 31 and the second storage section 32 in the y direction, and is located approximately at the center of the lower structure 3 in the y direction. The third storage section 33 is disposed slightly on the x1 side with respect to the center of the x direction in the lower structure 3. The third storage section 33 is connected to the first storage section 31. Steam flows from the second storage section 32 to the third storage section 33. In this embodiment, a temperature sensor (not shown) for measuring the temperature of the water stored in the third storage section 33 may be provided.

[0032] Flow path 34 is a flow path that connects first storage section 31 and flow path 34. As shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 7, flow path 34 extends in the y direction. Further, the bottom of flow path 34 on the z2 side in the z direction is located on the z1 side of the bottoms of first storage section 31 and second storage section 32 on the z2 side in the z direction.

[0033] 4, 5, and 9 to 11, ascending tube portion 35 is a cylindrical portion that opens to the z2 side in the z direction and extends to the z1 side. Ascending tube portion 35 is located on the x1 side in the x direction with respect to second storage portion 32, and is located on the y1 side in the y direction with respect to third storage portion 33.

[0034] A plurality of openings 351 are provided at the z1 side end of the rising tube portion 35 in the z direction. The openings 351 are openings provided at a portion that blocks the z1 side of the first storage portion 31 in the z direction. The number, position, shape, and the like of the openings 351 are not limited in any way. In the illustrated example, the rising tube portion 35 has a plurality of openings 351. When viewed in the z direction, the plurality of openings 351 open in different directions from each other. In addition, the openings 351 are formed at the boundary between the cylindrical portion of the rising tube portion 35 extending in the z direction and the portion that blocks the z1 side in the z direction.

[0035] 8, the dam portion 36 is disposed between the second storage portion 32 and the third storage portion 33. The position in the z direction of the upper end of the dam portion 36 (the portion located closest to the z1 side in the z direction) is substantially the same as the position in the z direction of the upper end of the second storage portion 32 (the portion located closest to the z1 side in the z direction).

[0036] [Intermediate structure 4] As shown in Figs. 4 to 12, the intermediate structure 4 is a structure placed on the lower structure 3 from the z1 side in the z direction. The material of the intermediate structure 4 is not limited in any way, and for example, a resin or the like is used. The specific structure of the intermediate structure 4 is not limited in any way. The intermediate structure 4 of this embodiment has a first shell portion 41, a second shell portion 42, a third shell portion 43, a partition portion 44, an inner cylindrical portion 45, a tapered opening portion 46, and a connection portion 47.

[0037] The first shell part 41 is a part that is fitted into the flow path 34 of the lower structure 3. As shown in Fig. 12, a gap is provided between the flow path 34 and the first shell part 41. Water is supplied from the first storage part 31 to the second storage part 32 through this gap (flow path 34).

[0038] The second shell portion 42 is a portion that covers the second storage portion 32 from the z1 side in the z direction, and has, for example, a shape that bulges out toward the z1 side in the z direction. By the second shell portion 42 covering the second storage portion 32, the sealing performance of the second storage portion 32 is improved.

[0039] 4, 5, 8, 11, and 12, the third shell portion 43 is a portion that covers the third storage portion 33 from the z1 side. The third shell portion 43 also has an opening 431 through which the rising tube portion 35 of the lower structure 3 is inserted in the z direction.

[0040] The partition portion 44 is a plate-shaped portion extending along the z direction and the x direction, and is substantially perpendicular to the y direction. As shown in Fig. 11, the partition portion 44 extends from the third shell portion 43 to the z1 side in the z direction.

[0041] As shown in Figs. 4 and 12, the inner cylindrical portion 45 is located on the z1 side of the third storage portion 33 in the z direction, and extends from the third shell portion 43 to the z1 side in the z direction. The inner cylindrical portion 45 is a tapered cylindrical portion whose cross section becomes smaller toward the z1 side in the z direction. The inner cylindrical portion 45 is open on the z2 side in the z direction. An opening 451 is formed in the inner cylindrical portion 45. The opening 451 is provided on the z1 side of the inner cylindrical portion 45 in the z direction, and penetrates in the z direction.

[0042] 4 and 11, the tapered opening 46 is located on the y2 side in the y direction with respect to the partition wall portion 44, and on the x2 side in the x direction with respect to the inner cylindrical portion 45. The tapered opening 46 has a tapered shape whose cross section becomes smaller from the z1 side toward the z2 side in the z direction. The z2 side end of the tapered opening 46 in the z direction is open.

[0043] 4, 5, and 8, the connection portion 47 connects the second shell portion 42 and the third shell portion 43. The connection portion 47 is spaced apart from the dam portion 36 on the z1 side in the z direction. Therefore, a passage is formed between the dam portion 36 and the connection portion 47, connecting the second storage portion 32 and the third storage portion 33 from the z1 side in the z direction.

[0044] [Upper structure 5] As shown in Figs. 4 to 12, the upper structure 5 is a structure placed on the lower structure 3 and the intermediate structure 4 from the z1 side in the z direction. The material of the upper structure 5 is not limited in any way, and for example, a resin or the like is used. The specific structure of the upper structure 5 is not limited in any way. The intermediate structure 4 of this embodiment has a descending cylinder portion 51, an outer cylinder portion 53, an air outlet 54, and an intermediate chamber portion 55.

[0045] As shown in Figures 4, 5, 10 and 11, the descending cylinder portion 51 is disposed so as to cover the ascending cylinder portion 35 of the lower structure 3 from the outside and the upper side. That is, the descending cylinder portion 51 has a portion that covers the ascending cylinder portion 35 from the z1 side in the z direction, and a portion that surrounds the ascending cylinder portion 35 in a direction perpendicular to the z direction. A predetermined gap is provided between the descending cylinder portion 51 and the ascending cylinder portion 35 in the x direction, y direction and z direction. As shown in Figure 11, a part of the descending cylinder portion 51 is connected to the partition portion 44 on the z1 side in the z direction.

[0046] The outer cylindrical portion 53 corresponds to the "tubular portion" in the present invention, and is arranged so as to cover the inner cylindrical portion 45 of the intermediate structure 4 from the outside and the upper side, as shown in Figs. 4, 5 and 12. That is, the outer cylindrical portion 53 has a portion that covers the inner cylindrical portion 45 from the z1 side in the z direction, and a portion that surrounds the ascending cylindrical portion 35 in the direction perpendicular to the z direction. A predetermined gap is provided between the outer cylindrical portion 53 and the inner cylindrical portion 45 in the x direction and the y direction. In addition, the z1 side end of the inner cylindrical portion 45 in the z direction and the z1 side end of the outer cylindrical portion 53 in the z direction are arranged at a predetermined distance.

[0047] The air outlet 54 is formed at the upper end portion of the outer tubular portion 53, and is a portion from which the mixed air that has flowed through the outer tubular portion 53 is blown out. The cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet 54 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​a portion of the outer tubular portion 53 that is located on the z2 side (lower) in the z direction from the air outlet 54. A connection portion 531 is formed at a portion of the outer tubular portion 53 that is connected to the air outlet 54. The connection portion 531 is a tapered portion whose cross-sectional area becomes smaller as it approaches the air outlet 54 in the z direction.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 1, air outlet 54 is disposed at the upper part of main body 1 in the z direction, and faces the outside through air outlet hole 132 of top panel 13. Also, as shown in Figs. 1, 2, and 12, mixed air is blown out from air outlet 54 to the z1 side in the z direction and to the x1 side in the x direction. That is, in the x direction (horizontal direction), the mixed air blown out from air outlet 54 is blown out toward the opposite side to inlet 151. Also, as shown in Fig. 12, an angle α formed between the mixed air blown out from air outlet 54 and top surface 131 is 30° or more and less than 60°, and preferably 40° or more and 50° or less.

[0049] As shown in Figures 4, 5, 11 and 12, the intermediate chamber 55 covers the tapered opening 46 of the intermediate structure 4 from the z1 side in the z direction. The position of the upper end (z1 side) of the intermediate chamber 55 in the z direction is lower than the positions of the upper ends (z1 sides) of the opening 351 and the descending tube portion 51 in the z direction. The intermediate chamber 55 functions, for example, as a baffle plate against which mist generated in a mist generating portion 63 described later rises and collides. When the mist falls from the inner surface of the intermediate chamber 55, it flows into the mist generating portion 63 along the inclination of the tapered opening 46.

[0050] [Humidification section 6] The humidifying section 6 is a section that performs a humidifying function using water supplied from the tank 2, and includes a pool 61, a heating section 62, and a mist generating section 63 in this embodiment.

[0051] The pool 61 is for storing the water supplied from the tank 2 at a desired position in a desired state. The pool 61 may be composed of a single member or a dedicated member, or may be composed of a plurality of members. In this embodiment, the pool 61 is composed of the first storage section 31, the second storage section 32, the third storage section 33, and the flow path 34 described above.

[0052] 4 and 7 to 10, the heating unit 62 is attached in a sealed state to an opening formed on the z2 side in the z direction of the second storage unit 32 of the pool 61. The heating unit 62 includes, for example, an electric heater, and performs the function of heating by converting electric power into heat.

[0053] The heating unit 62 has a front surface 621 and a back surface 622. The front surface 621 is a portion facing the z1 side in the z direction, and is exposed to the second storage unit 32. This positions the second storage unit 32 as a heating pool in which the stored water is heated by the front surface 621 of the heating unit 62. The back surface 622 is a portion facing the z2 side in the z direction, which is the opposite side to the front surface 621. The back surface 622 is located outside the second storage unit 32, and is partitioned from the inside of the second storage unit 32. An opening 122 is provided on the z2 side of the back surface 622 in the z direction.

[0054] As shown in Figures 4, 8, 11 and 12, the mist generating unit 63 is attached in a sealed state to an opening formed on the z2 side in the z direction of the third storage unit 33 of the pool 61. The mist generating unit 63 is equipped with, for example, an ultrasonic vibrator, and is configured to generate ultrasonic vibrations when power is applied. This positions the third storage unit 33 as a mist-generating pool in which the stored water is turned into mist by the ultrasonic vibrations of the mist generating unit 63.

[0055] [Blower section 7] The blower 7 blows out air that has been sucked in through the suction port 151 and heated by the heater 62. As shown in Figs. 4 and 9 to 11, the blower 7 of this embodiment is disposed at an opening provided on the z2 side of the rising tube portion 35 in the z direction, and discharges air from the z2 side to the z1 side in the z direction toward the rising tube portion 35. The blower 7 is configured to include, for example, a sirocco fan.

[0056] As shown in Figs. 1 to 4 and 6, air sucked in from suction port 151 is sucked in from opening 122 through suction recess 121. At this time, temperature and humidity sensor 94 is exposed to the sucked air in suction recess 121. As shown in Fig. 9, air sucked in from opening 122 is guided to back surface 622 of heating section 62. As a result, the air is heated by back surface 622 of heating section 62. The heated air is sucked into blower 7 and discharged toward the z1 side in the z direction.

[0057] [First air path forming part 8A] The first air passage forming section 8A is a section in which an air passage is formed through which the air blown by the blower section 7 flows upward. The specific configuration of the first air passage forming section 8A is not limited in any way, and it may be formed of a single member or a dedicated member, or may be formed of a plurality of members. In this embodiment, the first air passage forming section 8A is configured to include the above-mentioned ascending cylinder section 35, descending cylinder section 51, and partition section 44, as shown in Figs. 4 and 9 to 11.

[0058] The ascending tube section 35 constitutes an air passage through which the air sent out from the blower section 7 travels toward the z1 side in the z direction. The air that has risen to the z1 side in the ascending tube section 35 travels to the descending tube section 51 through a plurality of openings 351. In the descending tube section 51, the air is turned back in its travel direction and descends toward the z2 side in the z direction. This air reaches the third storage section 33 while being partially guided by the partition section 44.

[0059] [Second air path forming part 8B] The second air passage forming section 8B is a section where an air passage is formed in which the air from the first air passage forming section 8A and at least one of the steam and the mist generated by the humidifier section 6 are mixed and flow toward the z1 side in the z direction (upward) and are guided to the air outlet 54. The specific configuration of the second air passage forming section 8B is not limited in any way, and it may be formed of a single member or a dedicated member, or may be formed of a plurality of members. In this embodiment, the second air passage forming section 8B is formed to include the above-mentioned inner tubular section 45 and outer tubular section 53, as shown in Figs. 4, 5, and 12.

[0060] In this embodiment, the second air passage forming section 8B is disposed at a position (downwind position) shifted toward the x1 side in the x direction with respect to the mist generating section 63 and the third storage section 33. The tapered opening 46 is disposed directly above the mist generating section 63 on the z1 side in the z direction. However, the portion of the second air passage forming section 8B on the z1 side in the z direction is adjacent to the third storage section 33 so as to share a space. With such an arrangement, for example, water droplets that have fallen from the tapered opening 46 can be reliably collected by the mist generating section 63, and mist can be generated using these water droplets. In addition, this mist is quickly guided to the second air passage forming section 8B adjacent to the mist generating section 63.

[0061] The air from the first air passage forming section 8A becomes mixed air and flows into the inner cylinder section 45 from the z2 side in the z direction via the third storage section 33. This mixed air rises to the z1 side in the z direction inside the inner cylinder section 45, and flows into the outer cylinder section 53 from the z2 side in the z direction through the opening 451. Then, the mixed air that has risen to the z1 side in the z direction inside the outer cylinder section 53 is blown out from the blowing outlet 54 located at the upper end of the outer cylinder section 53 to the outside. Since the second air passage forming section 8B extends linearly upward in the z direction, the mixed air is likely to flow linearly. Therefore, unlike the present embodiment, in this embodiment, the mixed air is less likely to collide with the wall surface of the second air passage forming section 8B and water droplets are less likely to adhere to the wall surface compared to the case where the air passage is curved. As a result, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the amount of humidification.

[0062] [Control unit 91] The control unit 91 controls each part of the humidifier A1, and is constituted by, for example, a CPU. An example of the control by the control unit 91 is heating control of the heating unit 62. When a temperature sensor (not shown) is provided in the third storage unit 33 as described above, the heating state of the heating unit 62 may be controlled based on the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor. Specifically, if the water temperature in the third storage unit 33 is too high, it may induce a malfunction of the mist generating unit 63. On the other hand, if the water temperature drops too much, the amount of humidification in the humidifying unit 6 will be insufficient. For this reason, it is preferable to control the heating unit 62 so that the water temperature in the third storage unit 33 is less than 100°C (for example, about 50°C).

[0063] Another example of control by the control unit 91 is controlling the humidification state of the humidifier unit 6 according to the humidity of the sucked air measured by the temperature and humidity sensor 94. When the humidity measured by the temperature and humidity sensor 94 is low, it is assumed that the air outside the humidifier A1 is dry. For this reason, the humidifier unit 6 is controlled so as to increase the amount of humidification by the humidifier unit 6. On the other hand, when the humidity measured by the temperature and humidity sensor 94 is high, it is assumed that the air outside the humidifier A1 is moist. For this reason, control is performed to keep the amount of humidification by the humidifier unit 6 low or to stop the operation of the humidifier unit 6.

[0064] It is preferable that the control unit 91 controls the humidifier unit 6 by adjusting both the heating state of the heating unit 62 and the amount of mist generated by the mist generating unit 63. Adjusting only one of them may result in the temperature of air blown from the air outlet 54 not being appropriately controlled, which may cause problems such as a wet floor.

[0065] [Display section 92] The display unit 92 displays the operating state of the humidifier A1 and is exposed to the outside, for example, from the side panel 14. The display unit 92 is, for example, a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The display unit 92 may also serve as an operation unit for the humidifier A1 by including a touch sensor or the like.

[0066] [Power cord 93] The power cord 93 is for receiving the power necessary for the operation of the humidifier A1. The power cord 93 is designed to be plugged into, for example, a commercial 100V power outlet.

[0067] Next, an example of the operation of the humidifier A1 will be described.

[0068] As shown in Figs. 5 and 6, water supplied from tank 2 is stored in first storage section 31. Next, water flows from first storage section 31 into second storage section 32 and third storage section 33. As shown in Figs. 5 and 7 to 10, in second storage section 32, water is heated by heating section 62. This causes the water to evaporate and generate steam. As shown in Fig. 8, the steam generated in second storage section 32 enters third shell section 43 through connection section 47.

[0069] 8, 11, and 12, in third storage section 33, mist is generated in mist generating section 63. Next, the air, steam, and mist that have flowed through first air passage forming section 8A are mixed in third storage section 33 and third shell section 43. Then, the mixed air obtained by mixing these is blown out from outlet 54 through second air passage forming section 8B.

[0070] Next, the operation of the humidifier A1 will be described.

[0071] According to this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the air that passes through the opening 122 and is guided to the heating unit 62 side is heated by the heating unit 62 (rear surface portion 622), and then is sucked in by the blower 7 and discharged to the first air passage forming unit 8A. The air that passes through the first air passage forming unit 8A becomes mixed air containing steam and mist, and is blown out of the outlet 54 through the second air passage forming unit 8B. This makes it possible to further increase the temperature of the air that constitutes the mixed air. This allows the moisture contained in the mixed air blown out of the outlet 54 to evaporate more quickly outside the humidifier A1. This makes it possible to prevent the installation location of the humidifier A1 from getting wet due to falling water droplets. In addition, by guiding the air from the opening 122 to the heating unit 62, it is possible to prevent the heating unit 62 and the vicinity of the heating unit 62 from being thermally damaged due to overheating.

[0072] The cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet 54 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the outer tubular portion 53 constituting the second air-passage forming portion 8B. This makes it possible to improve the air blowing speed from the air outlet 54, and further suppresses water droplets from falling around the humidifier A1.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 12, the mixed air is blown out from outlet 54 at an angle α with respect to top surface 131. Also, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the blowing direction from outlet 54 is the opposite side to inlet 151 in the x direction. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the mixed air from outlet 54 from being sucked in through inlet 151, which is preferable for controlling the amount of humidification based on the actual environmental humidity around humidifier A1.

[0074] Furthermore, by setting the angle α of the air blown out from the air outlet 54 to 30° or more and less than 60°, the mixed air can be distributed over an appropriate height range in the z direction and an appropriate range in the x direction. If the angle α is 40° or more and 50° or less, the mixed air can be blown out to a more preferable range.

[0075] The blower unit 7 being a sirocco fan has the advantage of being able to reduce noise in the surroundings even when a large amount of air is set to be blown out from the air outlet 54. In addition, the sirocco fan has the advantage of being applicable even to air paths with high static pressure and large pressure loss.

[0076] <Second embodiment> 13 and 14 show a humidifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The humidifier A2 of this embodiment further includes an auxiliary blower section 7A.

[0077] The auxiliary blower 7A blows air drawn in from the suction port 151 towards the heating section 62 from the opposite side to the pool 61 (second storage section 32). The auxiliary blower 7A is disposed on the z2 side in the z direction with respect to the heating section 62, and faces the back surface section 622 of the heating section 62. The auxiliary blower 7A of the present embodiment discharges air drawn in from the z2 side (opening 122) in the z direction to the z1 side in the z direction, and is configured to include, for example, a propeller fan.

[0078] In this embodiment, the air blowing unit 7 blows out air that is sent out from the auxiliary air blowing unit 7A and heated by the heating unit 62. The air discharged from the auxiliary air blowing unit 7A is blown against the back surface 622 of the heating unit 62. As a result, the air is heated by the back surface 622 of the heating unit 62. The heated air is sucked into the second air blowing unit 7B and discharged toward the z1 side in the z direction.

[0079] This embodiment also makes it possible to prevent the installation location of the humidifier A1 from getting wet due to falling water droplets, and to prevent the heating unit 62 and the vicinity of the heating unit 62 from being thermally damaged due to overheating. Furthermore, by providing the auxiliary blower 7A, it is possible to guide a larger volume of air to the heating unit 62 side. This is preferable for preventing water droplets from falling and overheating of the heating unit 62, etc.

[0080] Since the auxiliary blower section 7A is a propeller fan, it is possible to send a larger amount of air toward the heating section 62. This makes it possible to remove more heat from the heating section 62 by the air.

[0081] <Third embodiment> 15 to 20 show a humidifier A3 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] 15 and 16, in this embodiment, the bottom 12 has a first opening 1221, a second opening 1222, and a second opening 1223. The first opening 1221, the second opening 1222, and the second opening 1223 are located on the z2 side (lower side) in the z direction with respect to the heating unit 62. The first opening 1221, the second opening 1222, and the second opening 1223 each open in the z direction and are disposed apart from each other.

[0083] The center 620 shown in FIG. 16 is the center of the heating unit 62 as viewed from the z direction. The first opening 1221 is located on the side farther from the blower 7 than the center 620 (the x2 side in the x direction). The second opening 1222 is located on the side closer to the blower 7 than the center 620 (the x1 side in the x direction). In the illustrated example, the first opening 1221, the second opening 1222, and the blower 7 are aligned in the x direction. The second opening 1223 is located on the side closer to the blower 7 than the center 620 (the x1 side in the x direction). In the illustrated example, the second opening 1223 is located on the y2 side in the y direction with respect to the first opening 1221, the second opening 1222, and the blower 7. The positions of the second opening 1222 and the second opening 1223 in the x direction are approximately the same.

[0084] As shown in FIGS. 16 to 19, the humidifier A3 includes a heater support member 641, a temperature sensor 642, a temperature sensor 643, and a sensor support member 644.

[0085] The heater support member 641 supports the heating unit 62 from the z2 side (below) in the z direction, and fixes the heating unit 62 to the lower structure 3. In this embodiment, the heater support member 641 is attached to the lower structure 3 together with the heating unit 62 by a plurality of screws 649. The material of the heater support member 641 is not limited in any way, and resin, metal, etc. are appropriately selected. In this embodiment, the material of the heater support member 641 is resin.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 18 and Fig. 19, the heater support member 641 has a flat portion 6411, an opening 6412, a pair of clamping portions 6413, a pair of clamping portions 6414, a pair of clamping portions 6415, and a pair of clamping portions 6416. The flat portion 6411 is a portion that occupies most of the portion extending along the xy plane, and overlaps with almost the entire heating portion 62 when viewed from the z direction. The opening 6412 penetrates the flat portion 6411 in the z direction, and connects the z1 side and the z2 side of the flat portion 6411 in the z direction. In the illustrated example, the opening 6412 is provided at a position that overlaps with the center of the flat portion 6411 in the x direction and the y direction, and has a shape that extends long in the y direction.

[0087] The pair of clamping parts 6413, the pair of clamping parts 6414, the pair of clamping parts 6415, and the pair of clamping parts 6416 are for more reliably fixing the temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643 at desired positions. The pair of clamping parts 6413, the pair of clamping parts 6414, the pair of clamping parts 6415, and the pair of clamping parts 6416 each protrude from the flat part 6411 to the z2 side in the z direction. The pair of clamping parts 6413 and the pair of clamping parts 6415 are disposed on the y2 side in the y direction with respect to the opening 6412. The pair of clamping parts 6414 and the pair of clamping parts 6416 are disposed on the y1 side in the y direction with respect to the opening 6412. The pair of clamping parts 6413 and the pair of clamping parts 6414 are located at the same position in the x direction. The pair of clamping parts 6415 and the pair of clamping parts 6416 are located at the same position in the x direction.

[0088] The shapes, sizes, etc. of the pair of clamping parts 6413, the pair of clamping parts 6414, the pair of clamping parts 6415, and the pair of clamping parts 6416 may be the same or different from each other. In the illustrated example, the interval between the pair of clamping parts 6413 and the interval between the pair of clamping parts 6414 are narrower than the interval between the pair of clamping parts 6415 and the interval between the pair of clamping parts 6416, and the rest of the configuration is the same.

[0089] A specific configuration will be described using the pair of clamping portions 6413 as an example. The pair of clamping portions 6413 are spaced apart from each other in the x direction. Each of the pair of clamping portions 6413 has a protrusion 6417. The protrusions 6417 protrude toward the side where the pair of clamping portions 6413 face each other (inner side in the x direction), and are located at the same position in the y direction.

[0090] The temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643 detect the temperature of the heating unit 62 and perform a predetermined function according to the temperature of the heating unit 62. The type and number of the heating unit 624 and the temperature sensor 643 are not limited in any way. The configuration may include only one of the temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643, or may include one or more additional temperature sensors. In this embodiment, the temperature sensor 642 is a thermistor, and the temperature sensor 643 is a thermal fuse. In Figs. 16 to 19, the temperature sensors 642 and 643 are shown as being fixed near the heating unit 62, and other parts are omitted.

[0091] A part of the temperature sensor 642 enters the opening 6412, and as shown in FIG. 19(b), this part is close to the back surface 622 of the heating unit 62. In this embodiment, the temperature sensor 642 is covered by a protective tube 6421. The protective tube 6421 is a cylindrical member made of, for example, silicone resin or the like, and is for protecting the temperature sensor 642. Parts of the temperature sensor 642 located on both sides in the y direction sandwiching the part close to the back surface 622 are located between the pair of clamping parts 6413 and the pair of clamping parts 6414. In this embodiment, the protective tube 6421 covering these parts is sandwiched between the pair of clamping parts 6413 and the pair of clamping parts 6414. In addition, the protrusions 6417 of the pair of clamping parts 6413 and the pair of clamping parts 6414 strongly press the protective tube 6421. In a configuration without the protective tube 6421, the temperature sensor 642 may be sandwiched between the pair of clamping portions 6413 and the pair of clamping portions 6414, respectively.

[0092] A part of the temperature sensor 643 enters the opening 6412, and as shown in FIG. 19(b), this part is close to the back surface 622 of the heating unit 62. In this embodiment, the temperature sensor 643 is covered by a protective tube 6431. The protective tube 6431 is a cylindrical member made of, for example, silicone resin or the like, and is for protecting the temperature sensor 643. Parts of the temperature sensor 643 located on both sides in the y direction sandwiching the part close to the back surface 622 are located between the pair of clamping parts 6415 and the pair of clamping parts 6415. In this embodiment, the protective tube 6431 covering these parts is sandwiched between the pair of clamping parts 6415 and the pair of clamping parts 6416. In addition, the protrusions 6417 of the pair of clamping parts 6415 and the pair of clamping parts 6416 strongly press the protective tube 6431. In a configuration without the protective tube 6431, the temperature sensor 643 may be sandwiched between the pair of clamping portions 6415 and the pair of clamping portions 6416, respectively.

[0093] 18 and 19, the sensor support member 644 is for supporting the temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643. There is no limitation on the specific configuration of the sensor support member 644, and in this embodiment, the sensor support member 644 has a main portion 6441 and a protruding portion 6442. There is no limitation on the material of the sensor support member 644, and for example, a metal plate material is used.

[0094] The main portion 6441 is a portion along the xy plane. In the illustrated example, the main portion 6441 extends on both sides of the opening 6412 in a direction inclined with respect to the x and y directions when viewed in the z direction. The main portion 6441 is fixed to the heater support member 641 and the lower structure 3 by a screw 649.

[0095] The convex portion 6442 is provided at a position overlapping with the opening portion 6412 when viewed in the z direction, and protrudes from the main portion 6441 to the z1 side in the z direction.

[0096] 19(b), in this embodiment, the protruding portion 6442 enters the opening 6412 and abuts against the protective tube 6421 from the z2 side in the z direction. Also, the main portion 6441 abuts against the protective tube 6431 from the z2 side in the z direction. Note that the protruding portion 6442 may be configured to abut against both the protective tube 6421 and the protective tube 6431.

[0097] As shown in Fig. 20, in the humidifier A3, the display unit 92 is configured as a so-called transmissive display. That is, when the display unit 92 is not displayed, it has the same appearance as other parts of the side panel 14, and is not visually recognized as a part that displays information such as text. On the other hand, when a light-emitting unit disposed inside emits light, this light is transmitted, and the information such as text appears on the outside.

[0098] In the humidifier A3, the control unit 91 controls the heating unit 62 and the mist generating unit 63 according to the operating state of the air blowing unit 7. For example, the operation of the heating unit 62 and the mist generating unit 63 is stopped when the motor for driving the air blowing unit 7 is not rotating due to an unintended cause.

[0099] In the humidifier A3, as shown in Figs. 15 and 16, a first opening 1221, a second opening 1222, and a second opening 1223 are provided. The first opening 1221 is farther from the blower 7 than the center 620. Therefore, the air introduced from the first opening 1221 is sucked into the blower 7 after traversing the entire heating section 62. The temperature of the air introduced from the first opening 1221 increases as it traverses the heating section 62. On the other hand, the second opening 1222 and the second opening 1223 are provided at a position closer to the blower 7 than the center 620. Therefore, the degree of temperature increase of the air introduced from the second opening 1222 and the second opening 1223 is smaller than that of the air introduced from the first opening 1221. This makes it possible to more efficiently cool the areas around the heating section 62 that are located on the side of the heating section 62 (center 620) where the blower section 7 is located (the x1 side in the x direction), thereby making the temperature of each part more uniform.

[0100] In this embodiment, a plurality of screws 649 are arranged around the heating unit 62. If the temperature of the screws 649 rises excessively, problems may occur, such as a deterioration in strength of the resin screw receiving portion of the lower structure 3 that receives the screws 649 due to expansion and contraction, or cracks may occur. According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent any of the plurality of screws 649 from becoming excessively hot.

[0101] 18 and 19, the temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643 are fixed by a pair of clamping parts 6413, a pair of clamping parts 6414, a pair of clamping parts 6415, and a pair of clamping parts 6416. This makes it possible to reduce the temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643 from rubbing against or contacting the heater support member 641, etc., even if an event such as the temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643 being pulled occurs during assembly or maintenance of the humidifier A3. This makes it possible to suppress damage to the temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643. It is preferable that the pair of clamping parts 6413, the pair of clamping parts 6414, the pair of clamping parts 6415, and the pair of clamping parts 6416 each have a protrusion 6417 in order to clamp the temperature sensor 642 and the temperature sensor 643 more reliably.

[0102] The humidifier according to the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the specific configuration of each part of the humidifier according to the present invention can be freely designed in various ways. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] A1: Humidifier 1: Main unit 2:Tank 3: Lower structure 4: Intermediate structure 5: Upper structure 6: Humidification section 7: Blower section 7A: Auxiliary air blower 8A: 1st air path forming part 8B:Second air path forming part 11: Torso 12: Bottom 13: Top panel 14: Side panel 15: Bottom panel 21: Tank body 22: Handle 23: Filter section 24:Water Quality Improvement Department 25: Water supply valve 26: Float 31: First storage section 32: Second storage section 33: Third storage section 34: Flow path 35: Ascending tube section 36: Weir 41: First shell part 42: Second shell part 43: Third shell part 44: Partition wall part 45:Inner cylinder part 46: Tapered opening 47: Connection 51: Descending cylinder part 53:Outer cylinder part (cylindrical part) 54:Air outlet 55: Intermediate room 61: Pool 62: Heating section 63: Mist generating section 91: Control section 92:Display section 93: Power cord 94: Humidity sensor 100V: Commercial 121: Suction recess 122: Opening 131: Top 132:Blowout hole 151: Inlet 351,431,451:Opening 531: Connection 620: Center 621: Surface part 622: Back part 641: Heater support member 642: Temperature sensor 643: Temperature sensor 644: Sensor support member 6411: Flat part 6412 :Opening 6413,6414,6415,6416: Holding part 6417 :Protrusion 6421: Protective tube 6431: Protective tube 6441: Main part 6442: Convex 649: Screw 1221: First opening 1222, 1223: Second opening α :Angle

Claims

1. The main body, an air inlet disposed at a lower portion of the main body and an air outlet disposed at an upper portion of the main body; a tank disposed within the body and supplying water; a humidification unit including a pool capable of storing water supplied from the tank, a heating unit that heats the water in the pool to generate steam, and a mist generating unit that turns the water in the pool into mist; an opening for directing the air sucked from the suction port toward the heating unit; a blower that blows out air that has passed through the opening and has been heated by the heating unit; a first air passage forming section in which an air passage through which the air blown by the blowing section flows is formed; a second air passage forming section through which mixed air, which is a mixture of air from the first air passage forming section and steam and mist generated by the humidifier section, flows and an air passage is formed through which mixed air is guided to the air outlet.

2. the second air passage forming portion includes a tubular portion having an upper end portion that constitutes the air outlet, The humidifier according to claim 1 , wherein a cross-sectional area of ​​the air outlet is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​a portion of the tubular portion that is positioned below the air outlet.

3. The air outlet blows out the mixed air toward an upper side in a horizontal direction and toward an opposite side to the air inlet in the horizontal direction, A humidity measuring unit is disposed in a path from the air inlet to the opening.

2. The humidifier of claim 1.

4. The main body has a top surface along a horizontal direction, The air outlet is open to the top surface, 2. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein an angle between a direction in which the mixed air is blown out and the top surface is equal to or greater than 30 degrees and less than 60 degrees.

5. The humidifier according to claim 1 , wherein the blower includes a sirocco fan.

6. The opening is A first opening portion is located below the heating portion and is located on a side farther from the blower portion than a center of the heating portion; A second opening portion is located below the heating portion and closer to the blower portion than the center of the heating portion; The humidifier of claim 1 , comprising:

7. a heater support member that supports the heating unit from below; A temperature sensor attached to the heating unit; a sensor support member for supporting the temperature sensor, The humidifier according to claim 1 , wherein the heater support member has a clamping portion that clamps the temperature sensor.

Images