Fan unit and air cleaner

Abstract

To make a fan unit (30) compact.SOLUTION: The fan unit (30) comprises: a fan motor (40) comprising a motor body (41), and output shafts (42) extending to both sides in a rotation axis direction from the motor body (41); a first impeller (31) connected to one of the output shafts (42); a second impeller (32) connected to the other of the output shafts (42); a first fan housing (33) housing the first impeller (31); and a second fan housing (34) housing the second impeller (32). At least one of the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) comprises a housing space (47) housing the fan motor (40).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a fan unit and an air purifier. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an air purifier having a fan unit including a fan motor. In the fan unit described in Patent Document 1, the fan motor is supported on a casing of the air purifier at a position separate from the fan housing that houses the impeller. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5862717 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The fan unit described in Patent Document 1 requires a relatively large space in the direction of the rotation axis of the fan motor due to the support members required to support the fan motor, and therefore there is room for improvement in terms of making the fan unit more compact.

[0005] The present disclosure has an object to make the fan unit more compact. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The first aspect is directed to a fan unit. The fan unit includes a fan motor (40) having a motor body (41) and an output shaft (42) extending from the motor body (41) on both sides in the direction of the rotation axis, a first impeller (31) connected to one of the output shafts (42), a second impeller (32) connected to the other output shaft (42) and disposed on either side of the fan motor (40) together with the first impeller (31), a first fan housing (33) that houses the first impeller (31), and a second fan housing (34) that houses the second impeller (32), and at least one of the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) has an accommodation space (47) that houses the fan motor (40).

[0007] In the first aspect, the fan motor (40) is housed in the fan housing (33, 34), and thus the fan motor (40), the impellers (31, 32), and the fan housing (33, 34) can be integrated into one body. Even if the fan unit (30) has a plurality of impellers (31, 32), the fan unit (30) can be made compact in configuration.

[0008] In the second aspect, in the first aspect, the first fan housing (33) constitutes a part of the accommodating space (47), and the second fan housing (34) constitutes the remainder of the accommodating space (47).

[0009] In the second aspect, by dividing the accommodation space (47), the load when supporting the motor body (41) in the accommodation space (47) and the load generated when the fan motor (40) is driven can be divided between the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34), thereby making it possible to make the fan unit (30) compact and stable.

[0010] In the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) are fastened to the output shaft (42), and a first distance (L1) which is the distance from an end of the fastening portion between the first impeller (31) and the output shaft (42) on the motor body (41) side to an end of the motor body (41) on the first impeller (31) side, and a second distance (L2) which is the distance from an end of the fastening portion between the second impeller (32) and the output shaft (42) on the motor body (41) side to an end of the motor body (41) on the second impeller (32) side, are each 4.4 mm or more.

[0011] There is a risk that vibrations in the axial direction of the output shaft (42) will be transmitted to the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) via the fastening portion. In contrast, in the third aspect, the motor body (41) is spaced from the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) by an appropriate distance, thereby making it possible to suppress transmission of vibrations to the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32). By suppressing transmission of vibrations to the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32), abnormal noise can be suppressed.

[0012] In a fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are each 4.4 mm to 6.0 mm.

[0013] In the fourth aspect, it is possible to appropriately separate the motor body (41) from the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32), while saving space in the direction of the rotation axis of the fan motor (40).

[0014] A fifth aspect is any one of the first to fourth aspects, in which a vibration-isolating member (46) is provided on the outer periphery of the motor body (41), and the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) have contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) that contact the vibration-isolating member (46).

[0015] In the fifth aspect, the contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) can press the vibration-proof member (46) and prevent the motor body (41) from moving together with the vibration-proof member (46). This allows the vibration of the motor body (41) to be appropriately absorbed by the vibration-proof member (46).

[0016] In a sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) have curved surfaces, and the vibration-proof member (46) comes into contact with the curved surfaces of the contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d).

[0017] In the sixth aspect, the contact area with the vibration-proof member (46) can be reduced, thereby suppressing the transmission of vibration from the vibration-proof member (46) to the contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d), thereby improving the vibration-proofing effect of the entire fan unit.

[0018] In a seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the contact portion (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) is larger than the radius of curvature of the contact portion of the vibration-proof member (46).

[0019] In the seventh aspect, the contact area with the vibration-proof member (46) can be made as small as possible, thereby improving the vibration-proofing effect of the entire fan unit.

[0020] An eighth aspect is based on any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, in which the vibration-proof member (46) is an elastic body.

[0021] In the eighth aspect, the vibration-isolating member (46) is made of an elastic material, thereby making it possible to further improve the vibration-isolating effect.

[0022] A ninth aspect is any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the first fan housing (33) has a first rib (35) that is arranged to surround the fan motor (40) and extends toward the second fan housing (34), and the second fan housing (34) has a second rib (36) that is arranged to surround the fan motor (40) and extends toward the first fan housing (33), and the first rib (35) and the second rib (36) overlap in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis direction.

[0023] In the ninth aspect, the first rib (35) and the second rib (36) overlap in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (X), thereby preventing foreign matter such as water from entering the storage space (47).

[0024] A tenth aspect is any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) have positioning portions (35e, 36c, 36d) for positioning when they are coupled to each other.

[0025] In the tenth aspect, positioning of the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) when they are joined together can be easily performed, facilitating assembly of the fan unit.

[0026] In an eleventh aspect, in any one of the first to tenth aspects, an appearance of the first fan housing (33) and an appearance of the second fan housing (34) are asymmetric with respect to a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis direction.

[0027] In the eleventh aspect, the configuration of the first fan housing (33) and the configuration of the second fan housing (34) can be significantly different. For example, the orientation of the outlet (33d) of the first fan housing (33) and the outlet (34d) of the second fan housing (34) can be different, or the size of the accommodation space for the impellers (31, 32) can be different. The configuration of the fan unit can be flexibly changed depending on the purpose.

[0028] A twelfth aspect is any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the radial length (W3) of the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) is three or more times the thickness (L3) of the fan motor (40).

[0029] In the twelfth aspect, the diameter of the impellers (31, 32) can be increased while the thickness of the fan motor (40) can be reduced, thereby achieving a compact fan unit with a large air volume.

[0030] A thirteenth aspect is based on any one of the first to twelfth aspects, in which the fan motor (40) is an axial gap type motor.

[0031] In the thirteenth aspect, an axial gap type motor is used as the fan motor (40), thereby making it possible to realize a compact fan unit with a large air volume.

[0032] A fourteenth aspect is directed to an air purifier. The air purifier includes the fan unit (30) according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, and a casing (11) that houses the fan unit (30).

[0033] In the fourteenth aspect, by using the fan unit (30) in which the fan motor (40) is housed in the fan housing (33, 34), it is not necessary to provide a separate support for the fan motor (40), and space can be saved. The saved space can be used to increase the installation area of ​​the impellers (31, 32), thereby improving the volume of airflow. In addition, the impellers (31, 32) can be disposed closer to the inlets (15, 16) than when the fan motor (40) is disposed outside the fan housing (33, 34). This makes it easier to take in air from the target space, thereby improving the air purification effect.

[0034] In a fifteenth aspect, in the fourteenth aspect, the casing (11) has main suction ports (15, 16) for sucking in air on both sides in the direction of the rotation shaft, and filters (23, 24, 25, 26) are arranged in an air passage (P) from the main suction ports (15, 16) to the fan unit (30).

[0035] In the fifteenth aspect, the total area of ​​the filters (23, 24, 25, 26) can be increased, and pressure loss can be suppressed. The suppression of pressure loss allows for a large air volume. Furthermore, compared to a case in which the filters (23, 24, 25, 26) are disposed downstream of the outlets (33d, 34d) of the fan unit (30), the size of the casing (11) in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (X) of the fan motor (40) can be made as small as possible.

[0036] In a 16th aspect, in the 15th aspect, the casing (11) has an auxiliary suction port (19) that draws in air from a direction perpendicular to both the rotation axis direction and the vertical direction, and a relay passage (19a) that flows the air drawn in from the auxiliary suction port (19) toward the upstream side of the filters (23, 24, 25, 26).

[0037] In the sixteenth aspect, air can be sucked in from a plurality of locations and can be properly passed through the filters (23, 24, 25, 26), thereby improving the efficiency of air purification.

[0038] A seventeenth aspect is the fifteenth or sixteenth aspect, wherein the casing (11) has a grill (71) between the filter (25, 26) and the fan unit (30), and is provided with fixing portions (73, 74) that fix the filter (25, 26) in a state aligned with the grill (71).

[0039] In the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the filters (25, 26) from moving unexpectedly, thereby maintaining a high level of air purification effect.

[0040] An 18th aspect is any one of the 15th to 17th aspects, further comprising an active species generation section (27, 28) that generates active species, and the casing (11) has a release passage (80, 87) that releases the active species generated in the active species generation section (27, 28) upstream of the filter (23, 24, 25, 26).

[0041] In the eighteenth aspect, even if the filters (23, 24, 25, 26) are located upstream of the impellers (31, 32), the active species can be attached to the filters (23, 24, 25, 26), thereby improving the air purification effect. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0042] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an air purifier according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the inside of the air purifier as viewed from the front. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the inside of the air purifier as viewed from the right side. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the fan unit. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the fan unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of region VII in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a view of the first fan housing as viewed from the motor side. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a view of the second fan housing as viewed from the motor side. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a positioning portion between the first fan housing and the second fan housing. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing contact portions between the vibration-proof member of the motor and the first and second fan housings. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a side view showing the left grille. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII in FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIV-XIV in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XV-XV in FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVI-XVI in FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII in FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along a plane passing through the front and rear emission holes. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the first distance and the second distance and the noise level. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a plan view showing a fan unit according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0043] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure. Since each drawing is intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for easy understanding.

[0044] (1) Overall configuration of the air purifier The overall configuration of an air purifier having a fan unit will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. In the following description, the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "right," and "left" are, in principle, based on the directions indicated by the arrows in Figure 1.

[0045] The air purifier (10) of the present embodiment purifies the air in an indoor space (S), which is a target space. In addition, the air purifier (10) humidifies the air in the indoor space (S). The air purifier (10) has a casing (11). The air purifier (10) has, inside the casing (11), an air purification unit (20) that purifies the air, and a humidification unit (50) that humidifies the purified air.

[0046] (1-1) Casing As shown in Fig. 1, the casing (11) is formed in a hollow box shape. The casing (11) is formed in a vertically long rectangular parallelepiped shape. The casing (11) has a top plate (11a), a bottom plate (11b), a front plate (11c), a rear plate (11d), a right side plate (11e), and a left side plate (11f).

[0047] An air outlet (12) is formed in the top plate (11a). The air outlet (12) is formed in a rectangular shape, and is formed slightly toward the rear of the top plate (11a). Two flaps (13) are provided in the air outlet (12). The flaps (13) are formed in a plate shape spanning both the left and right ends of the air outlet (12). The flaps (13) open and close the air outlet (12) and adjust the direction of the air blown out.

[0048] An operation panel (14) is provided on the top plate (11a). The operation panel (14) is located toward the front of the top plate (11a). A user can operate the operation panel (14) to input an operation mode and various settings of the air purifier (10).

[0049] A first suction port (15) is formed in the right side plate (11e). The first suction port (15) is formed in a rectangular shape and is formed in the lower part of the right side plate (11e). An openable lid (17) is provided in the upper part of the right side plate (11e). The openable lid (17) opens and closes an access opening (18) of the tank (52) of the humidification unit (50). A drawer opening (17a) is formed in the upper part of the openable lid (17). A user puts his / her hand on the drawer opening (17a) to remove the openable lid (17). This opens the access opening (18). The user can take the tank (52) out of the casing (11) through the access opening (18).

[0050] The left side plate (11f) is formed with a second suction port (16). The second suction port (16) is formed in a rectangular shape, and is formed in the lower part of the left side plate (11f).

[0051] A third suction port (19) is formed at the lower end of the front plate (11c). The third suction port (19) extends horizontally from the left to the right ends of the casing (11). As shown in FIG. 2, the casing (11) has an intermediate passage (19a) that guides the air sucked through the third suction port (19). The intermediate passage (19a) guides the air sucked through the third suction port (19) upstream of HEPA filters (23, 24) described below. The air guided to the intermediate passage (19a) is discharged from the air discharge port (83b) (see FIG. 12).

[0052] As shown in Fig. 2, an air passage (P) is formed inside the casing (11). The first suction port (15), the second suction port (16), and the third suction port (19) form an inlet end of the air passage (P). The air outlet (12) forms an outlet end of the air passage (P).

[0053] (1-2) Air purifier unit The air purification unit (20) is located at the bottom of the air passage (P). The air purification unit (20) purifies the air sucked in through the first suction inlet (15), the second suction inlet (16), and the third suction inlet (19). The air purification unit (20) includes, in order from the upstream side of the air passage (P), prefilters (21, 22), HEPA filters (23, 24), deodorizing filters (25, 26), and a fan unit (30). In addition, the air purification unit (20) includes discharge units (27, 28).

[0054] (1-2-1) Prefilter As shown in Fig. 2, the casing (11) is provided with two prefilters, a first prefilter (21) and a second prefilter (22). The first prefilter (21) is disposed in the first suction inlet (15), and the second prefilter (22) is disposed in the second suction inlet (16). The first prefilter (21) and the second prefilter (22) collect relatively large amounts of dust in the air.

[0055] (1-2-2) HEPA filter The casing (11) is provided with two HEPA filters, a first HEPA filter (23) (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) and a second HEPA filter (24). The first HEPA filter (23) is disposed between the first prefilter (21) and the first deodorizing filter (25). The second HEPA filter (24) is disposed between the second prefilter (22) and the second deodorizing filter (26). The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) are formed in a plate shape whose thickness direction corresponds to the horizontal direction. The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) have an electrostatic function of collecting particles by electrostatic force. An antibacterial agent is added to the first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24). The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) may have a laminated structure in which two or more filters are laminated in the air passing direction.

[0056] (1-2-3) Deodorizing filter The casing (11) is provided with two deodorizing filters, a first deodorizing filter (25) and a second deodorizing filter (26). The first deodorizing filter (25) is disposed between the first HEPA filter (23) and the fan unit (30). The second deodorizing filter (26) is disposed between the second HEPA filter (24) and the fan unit (30). The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) are formed in a plate shape whose thickness direction corresponds to the vertical direction. The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) are adsorbing parts that adsorb harmful substances and odorous substances in the air. The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) have a base material through which air can pass and an adsorbent such as activated carbon supported on the base material.

[0057] (1-2-4) Fan unit The fan unit (30) is located at the center in the left-right direction within the casing (11). The fan unit (30) is disposed at the lower part of the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) transports air in the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) is a unit having a centrifugal fan, specifically, a sirocco fan. The fan unit (30) is of a double suction type in which suction portions are formed at both ends in the axial direction of the drive shaft (rotation shaft of the impeller). The blowing portion of the fan unit (30) faces upward. The fan unit (30) has a fan motor (40) that drives the impeller. When the fan unit (30) is operated, air in the target space is sucked into the air passage (P) through the first suction port (15), the second suction port (16), and the third suction port (19). The air that has flowed through the air passage (P) is blown out into the target space through the air outlet (12). The detailed configuration of the fan unit (30) will be described later.

[0058] (1-2-5) Discharge unit The casing (11) is provided with two discharge units, a first discharge unit (27) and a second discharge unit (28). The first discharge unit (27) is disposed above the first HEPA filter (23) and the first deodorizing filter (25). The second discharge unit (28) is disposed above the second HEPA filter (24) and the second deodorizing filter (26).

[0059] The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate active species for oxidatively decomposing odorous components in the air as a result of discharge. The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate discharge between the tip of a linear discharge electrode and the flat surface of a plate-shaped counter electrode. The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate streamer discharge that forms a substantially conical discharge region from the tip of the discharge electrode toward the counter electrode. The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate streamer discharge on a portion of the air discharged from the fan unit (30) to generate active species.

[0060] The first discharge unit (27) is disposed in the first discharge passage (80), and the second discharge unit (28) is disposed in the second discharge passage (87). The first discharge passage (80) is a passage for returning a part of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) together with the active species generated by the first discharge units (27, 28) to the upstream side of the first HEPA filter (23). The second discharge passage (87) is a passage for returning a part of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) together with the active species generated by the second discharge units (27, 28) to the upstream side of the second HEPA filter (24). The first discharge passage (80) and the second discharge passage (87) will be described in detail later.

[0061] (1-3) Humidification unit The humidification unit (50) is disposed between the air outlet of the fan unit (30) and the air outlet (12) of the casing (11). The humidification unit (50) is disposed in a humidification space (51) located at an upper portion of the air passage (P). The humidification unit (50) adds water to air flowing through the air passage (P). As shown in FIG. 3, the humidification unit (50) includes a tank (52), a water tray (53), and a humidification rotor (54). (1-3-1) Tank The tank (52) is a container for storing water for humidification. The tank (52) appropriately supplies the water therein to the water tray (53). The tank (52) is configured to be removable from the casing (11) through the access opening (18) described above. (1-3-2) Water tray The water tray (53) stores the water supplied from the tank (52). The water tray (53) serves as a water storage section for supplying water to the water absorbing member of the humidification rotor (54). The water tray (53) is a container with an open top.

[0062] (1-3-3) Humidification rotor The humidification rotor (54) has a water absorbing member that absorbs moisture. The humidification rotor (54) imparts water contained in the water absorbing member to the air in the humidification space (51). The humidification rotor (54) divides the humidification space (51) into a primary space (51a) and a secondary space (51b). The primary space (51a) is formed upstream of the humidification rotor (54). The secondary space (51b) is formed downstream of the humidification rotor (54).

[0063] The humidification rotor (54) is disk-shaped and has a drive shaft (54a) at its center. The drive shaft (54a) extends toward both the primary space (51a) and the secondary space (51b). The drive shaft (54a) is rotatably supported by two shaft supports (53a) provided in the water tray (53). The humidification rotor (54) is rotated about the drive shaft (54a) by a drive mechanism (not shown). The drive mechanism is, for example, a motor.

[0064] (1-4) Damper The air purifier (10) has a first damper (61) and a second damper (62). The first damper (61) is disposed in the air passage (P) between the fan unit (30) and the secondary space (51b). The second damper (62) is disposed in the air passage (P) between the primary space (51a) and the air outlet (12). The first damper (61) and the second damper (62) open and close in conjunction with each other. Specifically, when the first damper (61) is closed, the second damper (62) is also closed, and when the first damper (61) is open, the second damper (62) is also open.

[0065] The first damper (61) and the second damper (62) change the air passage (P) in the humidification space (51). As shown in FIG. 3, when both the first damper (61) and the second damper (62) are closed, the air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows into the primary space (51a), passes through the humidification rotor (54), and then flows out into the secondary space (51b) and is discharged from the outlet (12). At this time, the humidified air is discharged from the outlet (12). On the other hand, when both the first damper (61) and the second damper (62) are open, the air blown out from the fan unit (30) bypasses the humidification rotor (54) and flows through the primary space (51a) and the secondary space (51b) toward the outlet (12). At this time, the air is discharged from the outlet (12) without being humidified much.

[0066] (2) Fan unit configuration The configuration of the fan unit (30) will be described with reference to Figs. 4 to 11. In the following description, the terms "axial direction," "radial direction," and "circumferential direction" generally refer to the axial direction, radial direction, and circumferential direction, respectively, of the fan motor (40). The "axial direction" refers to the direction in which the rotation axis (X), which is the center of rotation of the fan motor (40) shown in Fig. 6, extends.

[0067] The fan unit (30) creates a negative pressure for sucking air through the first suction inlet (15), the second suction inlet (16), and the third suction inlet (19). The fan unit (30) blows the cleaned air sucked through the first suction inlet (15), the second suction inlet (16), and the third suction inlet (19) toward the humidification unit (50). As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the fan unit (30) includes a fan motor (40), a first impeller (31) and a second impeller (32) rotated by the fan motor (40), a first fan housing (33) that houses the first impeller (31), and a second fan housing (34) that houses the second impeller (32). The fan unit (30) is disposed within the casing (11) such that the first fan housing (33) is located on the right side and the second fan housing (34) is located on the left side.

[0068] (2-1) Motor The fan motor (40) is an axial gap type motor. The fan motor (40) has a motor body (41) and an output shaft (42) protruding from the motor body (41) on both sides in the direction of the rotation axis. The motor body (41) has a disk-shaped first rotor (43), a disk-shaped second rotor (44), and a stator (45) sandwiched between the first rotor (43) and the second rotor (44). The output shaft (42) is rotatably supported by the stator (45). The fan motor (40) is, for example, a 10-pole, 12-slot motor.

[0069] The first rotor (43) has a disk-shaped magnet member. The magnet member is a plastic magnet with polar anisotropic orientation. The magnet member is composed of an annular outer peripheral portion (43a) and an inner peripheral portion (43b) formed on the inner circumference of the outer peripheral portion (43a) and bulging outward in the axial direction of the output shaft (42). In the outer peripheral portion (43a), south poles and north poles are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction. A first fixing portion (43c) for fixing one end of the output shaft (42) is provided in the center of the inner peripheral portion (43b). The first fixing portion (43c) protrudes slightly outward in the axial direction from the inner peripheral portion (43b). The first fixing portion (43c) corresponds to an end of the motor body (41) on the side of the first impeller (31).

[0070] The second rotor (44) has a disk-shaped magnet member. The magnet member of the second rotor (44) has a configuration similar to that of the first rotor (43), and is composed of an annular outer circumferential portion (44a) and an inner circumferential portion (44b) that bulges outward in the axial direction of the output shaft (42). A second fixing portion (44c) that fixes the other end of the output shaft (42) is provided in the center of the inner circumferential portion (44b). The second fixing portion (44c) protrudes slightly outward in the axial direction beyond the inner circumferential portion (44b). The second fixing portion (44c) corresponds to the end of the motor body (41) on the side of the second impeller (32).

[0071] The stator (45) is configured by resin-molding a connection plate to which split cores arranged in an annular shape are fixed, and a bearing holder that holds a bearing. The stator (45) has four protruding portions (45a) that protrude in the radial direction. The four protruding portions (45a) have the same configuration and are positioned at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The protruding portions (45a) are in the shape of a circular arc that expands in the circumferential direction.

[0072] A vibration-proof member (46) is attached to the protruding portion (45a). The vibration-proof member (46) is an elastic body, such as silicone rubber. The vibration-proof member (46) covers the entire protruding portion (45a). As shown in FIG. 11, the protruding portion (45a) has recesses (45b) on both axial sides. The vibration-proof member (46) has claw portions (46a) that are received in the recesses (45b). The vibration-proof member (46) is held so that it does not come off the protruding portion (45a) by receiving the claw portions (46a) in the recesses (45b). The corners of the vibration-proof member (46) are machined to have a rounded shape.

[0073] The output shaft (42) has a first shaft portion (42a) protruding in the axial direction from the first rotor (43) on the side opposite the stator (45) and a second shaft portion (42b) protruding in the axial direction from the second rotor (44) on the side opposite the stator (45). The first shaft portion (42a) is fastened to the first impeller (31). The second shaft portion (42b) is fastened to the second impeller (32).

[0074] (2-2) First impeller, second impeller The first impeller (31) is an impeller of a sirocco fan. The first impeller (31) has a plurality of blades (31a), a disk-shaped plate (31b), and a boss (31c) disposed at the center of the plate (31b). As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the first shaft portion (42a) is inserted into the boss (31c). The radial length (W3) of the first impeller (31) is, for example, 17 cm to 22 cm.

[0075] The second impeller (32) is an impeller of a sirocco fan. The second impeller (32) has a plurality of blades (32a), a disk-shaped plate (32b), and a boss (32c) disposed at the center of the plate (32b). As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the second shaft portion (42b) is inserted into the boss (32c). The second impeller (32) is the same size as the first impeller (31).

[0076] (2-3) Fastening structure between the motor and the first impeller and the second impeller The output shaft (42) of the fan motor (40) has a first support portion (42c) that supports the first impeller (31) on the first shaft portion (42a), and a second support portion (42d) that supports the second impeller (32) on the second shaft portion (42b). As shown in Fig. 7, the first support portion (42c) has an annular shape surrounding the first shaft portion (42a) and is fixed to the first shaft portion (42a). The first support portion (42c) cooperates with the nut (42e) to fasten the boss (31c) of the first impeller (31) to the first shaft portion (42a). The second support portion (42d) has an annular shape surrounding the second shaft portion (42b) and is fixed to the second shaft portion (42b). The second support portion (42d) has an annular shape surrounding the second shaft portion (42b) and is fixed to the second shaft portion (42b). The second support portion (42d) cooperates with the nut (42e) to fasten the boss (32c) of the second impeller (32) to the second shaft portion (42b). The first support portion (42c) corresponds to an end portion of the fastening portion between the first impeller (31) and the output shaft (42) that is closer to the motor body (41). The second support portion (42d) corresponds to an end portion of the fastening portion between the second impeller (32) and the output shaft (42) that is closer to the motor body (41).

[0077] The first distance (L1), which is the distance between the first support portion (42c) and the first fixed portion (43c) of the first rotor (43), and the second distance (L2), which is the distance between the second support portion (42d) and the second fixed portion (44c) of the second rotor (44), are set based on the noise level during rotation of the fan motor (40). Specifically, the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are 4.4 mm or more. More specifically, the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are 4.4 mm to 6.0 mm. The first distance (L1) may be measured by regarding the end face of the boss (31c) of the first impeller (31) on the motor body (41) side as the motor side end of the fastening portion between the first impeller (31) and the output shaft (42). Similarly, the second distance (L2) may be measured by regarding the end face of the boss (32c) of the second impeller (32) on the motor body (41) side as the motor side end of the fastening portion between the second impeller (32) and the output shaft (42). A third distance (L3), which is the distance between the end of the first fixed portion (43c) on the first impeller (31) side and the end of the second fixed portion (44c) on the second impeller (32) side, is 30 mm to 50 mm. The third distance (L3) corresponds to the thickness of the fan motor (40). When the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are 4.4 mm to 6.0 mm, the fourth distance (L4) which is the shortest distance in the direction of the rotation axis (X) between the outer periphery (43a) of the first rotor (43) and the plate (31b) of the first impeller (31) and the fifth distance (L5) which is the shortest distance in the direction of the rotation axis (X) between the outer periphery (44a) of the second rotor (44) and the plate (32b) of the second impeller (32) are 6.0 mm to 7.6 mm. The fourth distance (L4) may be regarded as the distance in the direction of the rotation axis (X) between the stator (45) and the plate (31b) of the first impeller (31), and the fifth distance (L5) may be regarded as the distance in the direction of the rotation axis (X) between the stator (45) and the plate (31b) of the second impeller (32).

[0078] (2-4) First fan housing, second fan housing The first fan housing (33) has a first outer housing (33a) and a first inner housing (33b). The first outer housing (33a) and the first inner housing (33b) are stacked in the axial direction and fastened together with screws. In the following description, when the term "first fan housing (33)" is used, it refers to the first outer housing (33a) and the first inner housing (33b) fastened together.

[0079] The first outer housing (33a) has a first inlet (33c) through which air is taken into the fan unit (30). The first outer housing (33a) constitutes a part of a first outlet (33d) through which the air taken into the fan unit (30) is discharged. The first outer housing (33a) constitutes a part of a first fan housing section (33e) that houses the first impeller (31).

[0080] The first inner housing (33b) constitutes the remainder of the first outlet (33d). The first inner housing (33b) constitutes the remainder of the first fan housing (33e). The first inner housing (33b) occupies a larger area of ​​the first outlet (33d) and the first fan housing (33e) than the first outer housing (33a). The first inner housing (33b) has two first legs (33f) for disposing the fan unit (30) in the casing (11) with the first outlet (33d) facing upward. The first inner housing (33b) has a hole (33g) for drawing out a harness extending from the fan motor (40).

[0081] The first inner housing (33b) constitutes a part of the motor accommodating space (47) that accommodates the fan motor (40). The motor accommodating space (47) also serves as a motor support portion that supports the fan motor (40). The first inner housing (33b) has an annular first rib (35) on a first surface portion (33h) located on the opposite side (the second fan housing (34) side) from the first outer housing (33a) in the axial direction. The first rib (35) protrudes in the axial direction toward the second fan housing (34). A portion surrounded by the first rib (35) constitutes a part of the motor accommodating space (47). The first rib (35) is formed so as to surround the stator (45) of the fan motor (40) from the radial outside.

[0082] The first rib (35) has four first arc-shaped ribs (35a) that extend in an arc shape around the rotation axis (X) of the fan motor (40) and four first connecting ribs (35b) that connect adjacent first arc-shaped ribs (35a) in the circumferential direction. The upper, lower, and rear first connecting ribs (35b) extend straight, while the front first connecting rib (35b) extends such that its center in the up-down direction bulges forward. The first arc-shaped ribs (35a) are provided in a portion corresponding to the protruding portion (45a) of the stator (45). The first arc-shaped rib (35a) has three first radial ribs (35c) that extend in the radial direction. The first radial ribs (35c) are provided on the first arc-shaped ribs (35a) on the motor accommodating space (47) side. The first connecting rib (35b) has two first circumferential ribs (35d) extending in the circumferential direction. The first circumferential ribs (35d) are provided at both ends of the first connecting rib (35b). The first circumferential ribs (35d) extending from the same first connecting rib (35b) extend radially inward so as to move away from each other. The first circumferential ribs (35d) extend in the circumferential direction toward the first arc-shaped rib (35a) closer to them. As shown in FIG. 10, the first radial rib (35c) and the first circumferential rib (35d) have curved surfaces on the second fan housing (34) side. The radius of curvature of the curved surfaces is larger than the radius of curvature of the rounded shape of the vibration-proof member (46). As will be described in detail later, the first radial rib (35c) and the first circumferential rib (35d) correspond to contact portions that come into contact with the vibration-proof member (46).

[0083] As shown in Fig. 10, the first arc-shaped rib (35a) and the first connecting rib (35b) have engagement recesses (35e) recessed axially outward (to the right in this example). The first arc-shaped rib (35a) has the engagement recesses (35e) at the position of the first radial rib (35c). The first connecting rib (35b) has the engagement recesses (35e) at the position of the first circumferential rib (35d). The engagement recesses (35e) are portions that engage with second radial ribs (36c) and second circumferential ribs (36d) of the second fan housing (34), which will be described later.

[0084] The first inner housing (33b) has a first boss (33i) on the radially outer side of the first arc-shaped rib (35a). Four first bosses (33i) are provided. The first bosses (33i) are portions to which screws are fastened to join the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34). A reinforcing rib (33j) is provided between the first bosses (33i) and the first rib (35).

[0085] The second fan housing (34) has a second outer housing (34a) and a second inner housing (34b). The second outer housing (34a) and the second inner housing (34b) are stacked in the axial direction and fastened together with screws. In the following description, when the term "second fan housing (34)" is used, it refers to the second outer housing (34a) and the second inner housing (34b) fastened together.

[0086] The second outer housing (34a) has a second inlet (34c) through which air is taken into the fan unit (30). The second inlet (34c) is located on the opposite side of the fan motor (40) from the first inlet (33c). The second outer housing (34a) forms part of a second outlet (34d) through which the air taken into the fan unit (30) is discharged. The second outer housing (34a) forms part of a second fan housing section (34e) that houses the second impeller (32).

[0087] The second inner housing (34b) constitutes the remainder of the second outlet (34d). The second inner housing (34b) constitutes the remainder of the second fan accommodating section (34e). The second inner housing (34b) occupies a larger area of ​​the second outlet (34d) and the second fan accommodating section (34e) than the second outer housing (34a). The second inner housing (34b) has two second legs (34f) for disposing the fan unit (30) in the casing (11) with the second outlet (34d) facing upward.

[0088] The second inner housing (34b) constitutes the remainder of the motor accommodating space (47) that accommodates the fan motor (40). The second inner housing (34b) has an annular second rib (36) on a second surface portion (34h) located on the opposite side (the first fan housing (33) side) from the second outer housing (34a) in the axial direction. The second rib (36) protrudes in the axial direction toward the first fan housing (33). A portion surrounded by the second rib (36) constitutes a part of the motor accommodating space (47). The second rib (36) is formed so as to surround the stator (45) of the fan motor (40) from the radially outer side. The distance of the second rib (36) from the rotation axis (X) is slightly greater than the distance of the first rib (35) from the rotation axis (X).

[0089] The second rib (36) has four second arc-shaped ribs (36a) that extend in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis (X) of the fan motor (40) and four second connecting ribs (36b) that connect adjacent second arc-shaped ribs (36a) in the circumferential direction. The second connecting ribs (36b) located on the upper, lower, and rear sides extend straight, while the second connecting rib (36b) located on the front side extends such that its center in the up-down direction bulges forward. The second arc-shaped ribs (36a) are provided in a portion corresponding to the protruding portion (45a) of the stator (45). The second arc-shaped rib (36a) has three second radial ribs (36c) that extend in the radial direction. The second radial ribs (36c) are provided on the second arc-shaped ribs (36a) on the motor accommodating space (47) side. The second connecting rib (36b) has two second circumferential ribs (36d) extending in the circumferential direction. The second circumferential ribs (36d) are provided at both ends of the second connecting rib (36b), one at each end. The second circumferential ribs (36d) extending from the same second connecting rib (36b) extend radially inward so as to move away from each other. The second circumferential ribs (36d) extend in the circumferential direction toward the second arc-shaped rib (36a) on the closer side. As shown in FIG. 10, the second radial rib (36c) and the second circumferential rib (36d) have curved surfaces on the second fan housing (34) side. The radius of curvature of the curved surfaces is larger than the radius of curvature of the rounded shape of the vibration-proof member (46). As will be described in detail later, the second radial rib (36c) and the second circumferential rib (36d) correspond to contact portions that come into contact with the vibration-proof member (46).

[0090] As shown in Fig. 8, the second inner housing (34b) has second bosses (34i) on the radially outer side of the second arc-shaped rib (36a). Four second bosses (34i) are provided. The second bosses (34i) are portions to which screws are fastened to join the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34). A reinforcing rib (34j) is provided between the second bosses (34i) and the second rib (36).

[0091] 6, when the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) are combined, a motor accommodating space (47) is formed by the first surface (33h), the second surface (34h), the first rib (35), and the second rib (36). The width (W2) in the direction of the motor accommodating space (47) is 7% to 12% of the maximum axial width (W1) of the combined body of the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34).

[0092] When the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) are joined together, the first rib (35) and the second rib (36) overlap in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (X). The first rib (35) is located radially inward of the second rib (36). The first rib (35) abuts against the second surface portion (34h) of the second inner housing (34b).

[0093] As shown in Fig. 10, the second radial rib (36c) and the second circumferential rib (36d) engage with the engagement recess (35e) when the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) are joined together. When assembling the fan unit (30), the engagement recess (35e) engages with the second radial rib (36c) and the second circumferential rib (36d), thereby determining the relative positions of the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34). The engagement recess (35e), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d) correspond to positioning portions that determine the positioning when the first fan housing and the second fan housing are joined together.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 11, in a state in which the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) are joined together, the first radial rib (35c), the first circumferential rib (35d), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d) come into contact with the vibration-proof member (46). The second radial rib (36c) and the second circumferential rib (36d) engage with the engagement recess (35e), so that the first radial rib (35c) and the second radial rib (36c) are positioned at the same position in the circumferential direction. Similarly, the first circumferential rib (35d) and the second circumferential rib (36d) are positioned at the same position in the radial direction. Therefore, the first radial rib (35c), the first circumferential rib (35d), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d) sandwich and press the vibration-proof member (46) in the axial direction. The stator (45) is fixed to the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) via the vibration-proof member (46). The first radial rib (35c) and the second radial rib (36c) suppress radial vibration of the fan motor (40). The first circumferential rib (35d) and the second circumferential rib (36d) suppress circumferential vibration of the fan motor (40).

[0095] As described above, the radii of curvature of the first radial rib (35c), the first circumferential rib (35d), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d) are larger than the radii of curvature of the vibration-proof member (46). The first radial rib (35c), the first circumferential rib (35d), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d) contact the corners of the vibration-proof member (46) at points or short lines. Because the contact area is small, almost no vibration of the fan motor (40) is transmitted to the first radial rib (35c), the first circumferential rib (35d), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d).

[0096] In order to increase the volume of air blown out from the fan unit, it is desirable to make the diameter of the impeller as large as possible. However, in order to drive an impeller with a large diameter, it is necessary to increase the output of the fan motor, which in turn requires the fan motor to be enlarged, resulting in a large unit size. In this embodiment, an axial gap type motor is used as the fan motor (40), and the thickness of the fan motor (40) is reduced while the large diameter impellers (31, 32) are used to realize a large volume and compact fan unit (30). For example, the radial length (W3) of the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) is three times or more the thickness of the fan motor (40).

[0097] (3) Deodorizing filter installation structure The mounting structure of the deodorizing filters (25, 26) relative to the casing (11) will be described with reference to Figures 12 to 15. Note that since the mounting structure of the first deodorizing filter (25) and the mounting structure of the second deodorizing filter (26) are configured to be symmetrical with respect to an axis extending in the vertical direction, only the mounting structure of the first deodorizing filter (25) will be described in detail below, and a description of the mounting structure of the second deodorizing filter (26) will be omitted.

[0098] The first deodorizing filter (25) is attached to a grill (71) provided in the casing (11). The first deodorizing filter (25) is attached to the grill (71) by a pin (72), a fixing member (73), and a lever (74).

[0099] (3-1) Grill The grill (71) is disposed in the air passage (P) between the first deodorizing filter (25) and the fan unit (30). The grill (71) is formed integrally with a frame (70) that is a part of the casing (11).

[0100] (3-2) Pin Two pins (72) are arranged on the upper portion of the grill (71). The two pins (72) are arranged at a distance from each other in the front and rear. The pins (72) protrude toward the side opposite the fan unit (30). The pins (72) are inserted into the first deodorizing filter (25). The pins (72) support the first deodorizing filter (25) in a state aligned with the grill (71).

[0101] (3-3) Fixing member The fixing member (73) is disposed below the first suction port (15) and toward the rear. The fixing member (73) is separate from the casing (11) (i.e., separate from the grill (71)). The fixing member (73) is fixed to the casing (11). As shown in FIG. 13, the fixing member (73) has an upright wall portion (73a) extending in the up-down and front-rear directions, and three ribs (73b) protruding from the upright wall portion (73a) toward the grill (71). The three ribs (73b) are disposed at equal intervals in the front-rear direction. As shown in FIG. 14, when the first deodorizing filter (25) is attached, the ribs (73b) come into contact with the first deodorizing filter (25).

[0102] (3-4) Lever The lever (74) pushes the first deodorizing filter (25) from the inside to the outside (here, from left to right) of the casing (11). As shown in Figures 13 to 15, the lever (74) has a lever body (74a), a contact portion (74b) that comes into contact with the first deodorizing filter (25), and a spring (74c) for applying force to the lever body (74a).

[0103] The lever body (74a) is located below the grille (71) in the space between the grille (71) and the bottom plate (11b) of the casing (11). As shown in Fig. 15, the lever body (74a) is in the shape of a plate extending in the front-rear and left-right directions. The lever body (74a) rotates around a rod (74d) extending from the casing (11).

[0104] The contact portion (74b) is disposed at a position on the right side and in front of the lever body (74a). The contact portion (74b) is integral with the lever body (74a). The contact portion (74b) is located at the position of a window portion (71a) provided in the grille (71). The contact portion (74b) can pass through the window portion (71a) and be exposed to the right of the grille (71). The contact portion (74b) has two ribs (74e) extending toward the right. The ribs (74e) are spaced apart in the front-rear direction. As shown in FIG. 14, when the first deodorizing filter (25) is attached, the ribs (74e) come into contact with the first deodorizing filter (25) and push the first deodorizing filter (25) from the inside to the outside of the casing (11).

[0105] The spring (74c) is a torsion coil spring. One end of the spring (74c) is fixed to the casing (11). A middle portion of the spring (74c) is wound around a rod shaft (74d). The spring (74c) applies a force to the lever body (74a) to rotate it counterclockwise.

[0106] (3-5) How to install the deodorizing filter When attaching the first deodorizing filter (25), first, the first deodorizing filter (25) is placed between the fixing member (73) and the contact portion (74b). When the first deodorizing filter (25) is placed between the fixing member (73) and the contact portion (74b), the contact portion (74b) moves back slightly to the left. The contact portion (74b) pushes the first deodorizing filter (25) from the inside to the outside of the casing (11) by the force of the spring (74c) transmitted through the lever body (74a). Since the movement of the first deodorizing filter (25) to the right is restricted by the fixing member (73), only the periphery of the contact portion with the contact portion (74b) moves slightly to the right. The lower portion of the first deodorizing filter (25) is sandwiched between the fixing member (73) and the contact portion (74b). After that, the pin (72) is inserted into the upper portion of the first deodorizing filter (25). An upper portion of the first deodorizing filter (25) is supported by a pin (72), thereby attaching the first deodorizing filter (25).

[0107] A sensor (SW) is disposed in front of the lever body (74a). The sensor (SW) is a contact sensor. The sensor (SW) is turned on when the first deodorizing filter (25) is disposed between the fixing member (73) and the contact portion (74b). Specifically, the sensor (SW) is turned on when the contact portion (74b) retreats to the left and the lever body (74a) rotates clockwise. The sensor (SW) is a sensor for checking whether the first deodorizing filter (25) is properly disposed.

[0108] (4) Pathway for active species The first discharge passage (80) and the second discharge passage (87), through which the active species generated by the discharge units (27, 28) flow, will be described with reference to Figures 12, 16 to 18. Note that since the first discharge passage (80) and the second discharge passage (87) are symmetrical, only the first discharge passage (80) will be described in detail below, and a detailed description of the second discharge passage (87) will be omitted.

[0109] The first discharge passage (80) has an inlet duct (81) that takes in a portion of the air discharged from the fan unit (30), a horizontal duct (82) through which active species are branched and flow in the front-rear direction, a front discharge duct (83) located on the front side and discharging the active species, and a rear discharge duct (84) located on the rear side and discharging the active species.

[0110] (4-1) Inlet duct As shown in FIG. 16, the first discharge unit (27) is disposed in the discharge space (27a) of the first discharge passage (27). The inflow duct (81) connects the main air passage (P) and the discharge space (27a). The inflow duct (81) is located in the center of the entire air purifier (10) in the front-rear direction. The inflow duct (81) has an upper inclined portion (81a) that extends at an angle upward toward the right side, a straight portion (81b) that extends straight to the right side, and a lower inclined portion (81c) that extends at an angle downward toward the right side. The straight portion (81b) has a rib (81d) that protrudes upward and extends in the front-rear direction. The rib (81d) prevents foreign matter such as water from entering the air.

[0111] (4-2) Horizontal duct 17, the horizontal duct (82) extends in the front-rear direction from the discharge space (27a). The front end of the horizontal duct (82) communicates with the front discharge duct (83). The rear end of the horizontal duct (82) communicates with the rear discharge duct (84).

[0112] (4-3) Front discharge duct, rear discharge duct As shown in Fig. 12, the front discharge duct (83) and the rear discharge duct (84) extend in the vertical direction. The front discharge duct (83) has five front discharge holes (83a) that discharge active species. The front discharge holes (83a) open to the right and toward the rear. The rear discharge duct (84) has five rear discharge holes (84a) that discharge active species. The rear discharge holes (84a) open to the right and toward the front. The front discharge holes (83a) and the rear discharge holes (84a) are provided at equal intervals and at the same positions in the vertical direction.

[0113] As shown in Fig. 18, the front discharge duct (83) is composed of a frame (70) forming the grill (71) and a front cover member (85). The rear discharge duct (84) is composed of a frame (70) forming the grill (71) and a rear cover member (86). In other words, the two discharge ducts (83, 84) are formed by three members. The front cover member (85) also forms a part of the front discharge duct of the second discharge passage (87). The rear cover member (86) is provided separately for the first discharge passage (80) and the second discharge passage (87).

[0114] (4-4) Flow of reactive species The first discharge passage (80) communicates with the first suction port (15) through the front discharge hole (83a) and the rear discharge hole (84a), and therefore has a lower air pressure than the area directly downstream of the outlets (33d, 34d) of the fan unit (30) (upstream of the humidification unit (50)). In particular, in the first discharge passage (80), the inlet duct (81) has the highest air pressure, and the outlet ducts (83, 84) have the lowest air pressure. Thus, part of the air discharged from the fan unit (30) flows into the discharge space (27a) through the inlet duct (81). The air flowing into the discharge space (27a) is subjected to streamer discharge by the first discharge unit (27). The streamer discharge generates active species. The generated active species are separated in the front-rear direction and pass through the horizontal duct (82). The active species that have flowed forward through the horizontal duct (82) pass through the front discharge duct (83) and are discharged from the front discharge holes (83a) to the upstream side of the first HEPA filter (23). The active species that have flowed rearward through the horizontal duct (82) pass through the rear discharge duct (84) and are discharged from the rear discharge holes (84a) to the upstream side of the first HEPA filter (23). In this manner, the active species are discharged from both opposing sides of the first HEPA filter (23). The discharged active species adhere to the first HEPA filter (23) and oxidize and decompose odorous components in the air passing through the first HEPA filter (23).

[0115] (5) Driving behavior The operation of the air purifier (10) will be described. The air purifier (10) performs a cleaning operation and a humidification cleaning operation. The cleaning operation is an operation for cleaning the air in a target space. In the cleaning operation, the humidification function is stopped. The humidification cleaning operation is an operation for simultaneously cleaning and humidifying the air in a target space.

[0116] (5-1) Cleaning operation In the cleaning operation, the fan unit (30) and the discharge units (27, 28) are driven. In principle, the humidification rotor (54) is stopped. The first damper (61) and the second damper (62) are open. Air from the indoor space (S) is sucked into the air passage (P) through the first suction inlet (15), the second suction inlet (16), and the third suction inlet (19). The air sucked through the first suction inlet (15) and the second suction inlet (16) passes through each of the prefilters (21, 22). Each of the prefilters (21, 22) collects relatively large dust particles in the air.

[0117] The air that has passed through the prefilters (21, 22) passes in turn through the HEPA filters (23, 24) and the deodorizing filters (25, 26). In each of the HEPA filters (23, 24), odorous components in the air are oxidized and decomposed by the active species generated in each of the discharge units (27, 28).

[0118] A part of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows through the primary space (51a) and the other part flows through the secondary space (51b). The air in the primary space (51a) and the air in the secondary space (51b) flow upward along the side surfaces of the humidification rotor (54) and are blown out through the air outlet (12) into the room space (S).

[0119] (5-2) Humidification and purification operation In the humidification cleaning operation, the fan unit (30) and the discharge units (27, 28) are driven. In principle, the humidification rotor (54) is in a rotating state. The first damper (61) and the second damper (62) are in a closed state. In the humidification cleaning operation, the air is cleaned in the same manner as in the cleaning operation described above.

[0120] The air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows entirely through the primary space (51a). The air in the primary space (51a) passes through the humidification rotor (54) in the axial direction. In the humidification rotor (54), moisture from a water-absorbing member is added to the air. The air humidified by the humidification rotor (54) flows into the secondary space (51b) and is blown out through the air outlet (12) into the room space (S).

[0121] (6) Effects of the embodiment In this embodiment, the fan unit (30) includes a first fan housing (33) that houses the first impeller (31) and a second fan housing (34) that houses the second impeller (32), which form a motor housing space (47) that houses the fan motor (40). The fan motor (40) is housed in the fan housings (33, 34), so that the fan motor (40), the impellers (31, 32), and the fan housings (33, 34) can be integrated into one unit. Since the fan unit (30) does not need to provide a separate support member for the fan motor (40), the fan unit (30) can be compact in configuration even if it includes a plurality of impellers (31, 32).

[0122] In addition, by accommodating the fan motor (40) in the fan housing (33, 34), the fan unit (30) can increase the area of ​​the outlets (33d, 34d) of the fan housing (33, 34) within a limited installation area, as compared to a case in which a separate support member for the fan motor (40) is provided. Furthermore, by accommodating the fan motor (40) and the impellers (31, 32) in the fan housing (33, 34), the fan unit (30) can cool the fan motor (40) by air flowing through the fan housing (33, 34).

[0123] In this embodiment, the first fan housing (33) constitutes a part of the motor accommodating space (47), and the second fan housing (34) constitutes the remainder of the motor accommodating space (47). In the second aspect, by dividing the motor accommodating space (47), the load when supporting the motor body (41) in the motor accommodating space (47) and the load generated when the fan motor (40) is driven can be divided between the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34). This makes it possible to make the fan unit (30) compact and stable.

[0124] In this embodiment, a first distance (L1) from the first support portion (42c) supporting the first impeller (31) to an end of the first fixed portion (43c) of the motor body (41) and a second distance (L2) from the second support portion (42d) supporting the second impeller (32) to an end of the second fixed portion (44c) of the motor body (41) are each 4.4 mm or more. In particular, the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are each 4.4 mm to 6.0 mm.

[0125] Vibrations in the axial direction of the fan motor (40) may be transmitted to the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) via the output shaft (42). When the vibrations are transmitted to the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32), abnormal noise may occur. FIG. 19 shows the noise level when the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are changed. The vertical axis represents the volume, and the horizontal axis represents the frequency of the sound. In FIG. 19, the dashed line represents the case when the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are 2.8 mm, the solid line represents the case when the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are 4.4 mm, and the dashed line represents the case when the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are 6.0 mm. It can be seen that the volume is generally lower when the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are 4.4 mm than when they are 2.8 mm. Furthermore, when the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are compared at 4.4 mm and 6.0 mm, it is found that the overall volume does not decrease significantly. Therefore, by setting the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) to 4.4 mm to 6.0 mm, it is possible to reduce the space required for the fan unit (30) while suppressing abnormal noise caused by vibration of the fan motor (40).

[0126] In this embodiment, a vibration-proof member (46) is provided on the outer periphery of the motor body (41), and the fan housing (33, 34) has a first radial rib (35c), a first circumferential rib (35d), a second radial rib (36c), and a second circumferential rib (36d) that contact the vibration-proof member (46). These ribs hold down the vibration-proof member (46) and prevent the motor body (41) from moving together with the vibration-proof member (46). This allows the vibration of the motor body (41) to be appropriately absorbed by the vibration-proof member (46).

[0127] In this embodiment, the first radial rib (35c), the first circumferential rib (35d), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d) have curved surfaces, and the vibration-proofing member (46) comes into contact with these curved surfaces. In particular, the radius of curvature of these curved surfaces is greater than the radius of curvature of the corners of the vibration-proofing member (46). The first radial rib (35c), the first circumferential rib (35d), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d) can be in the form of dots or short lines with the vibration-proofing member (46), and the contact area can be made as small as possible. The reduced contact area can improve the vibration-proofing effect of the entire fan unit (30).

[0128] In the present embodiment, the vibration-isolating member (46) is an elastic body, and therefore the vibration-isolating effect can be further improved.

[0129] In this embodiment, the first fan housing (33) has a first rib (35) that is provided to surround the fan motor (40) and extends toward the second fan housing (34), and the second fan housing (34) has a second rib (36) that is provided to surround the fan motor (40) and extends toward the first fan housing (33). The first rib (35) and the second rib (36) overlap in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (X). The first rib (35) and the second rib (36) overlap in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (X), thereby preventing foreign matter such as water from entering the storage space (47). In particular, in this embodiment, the first rib (35) abuts against the second surface portion (34h) that is the surface of the second fan housing (34) on which the second rib (36) is provided, and therefore, it is possible to more effectively prevent foreign matter such as water from entering the storage space (47).

[0130] In this embodiment, the first fan housing (33) has an engagement recess (35e) that serves as a positioning portion for positioning when coupled to the second fan housing (34), and the second fan housing (34) has a second radial rib (36c) and a second circumferential rib (36d) that engage with the engagement recess (35e) and serve as positioning portions. The engagement recess (35e), the second radial rib (36c), and the second circumferential rib (36d) facilitate positioning when the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) are coupled together. This facilitates assembly of the fan unit (30).

[0131] In this embodiment, the radial length (W3) of the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) is three or more times the thickness (L3) of the fan motor (40). The fan motor (40) is an axial gap type motor. This allows the fan motor (40) to be thin and the large-diameter impellers (31, 32) to be used, thereby achieving a large-volume, compact fan unit (30).

[0132] The air purifier (10) in this embodiment includes a fan unit (30) and a casing (11) that houses the fan unit (30). By using the fan unit (30) in which the fan motor (40) is housed in the fan housing (33, 34), it is not necessary to provide a separate support for the fan motor (40) in the casing (11), and space can be saved. The saved space can be used to increase the installation area of ​​the impellers (31, 32), thereby improving the air volume of the air purifier (10). In addition, the impellers (31, 32) can be disposed closer to the inlets (15, 16) than when the fan motor (40) is disposed outside the fan housing (33, 34). This makes it easier to take in air from the target space, thereby improving the air purification effect.

[0133] In this embodiment, the casing (11) has a first suction port (15) and a second suction port (16) for sucking air on both sides in the direction of the rotation axis of the fan motor, and the HEPA filters (23, 24) and the deodorizing filters (25, 26) are arranged in the air passage (P) from the first suction port (15) and the second suction port (16) to the fan unit (30). By arranging the HEPA filters (23, 24) and the deodorizing filters (25, 26) separately in two places, the total area of ​​the filters can be increased and pressure loss can be suppressed. The suppression of pressure loss allows the air purifier (10) to have a large air volume. In addition, the height of the casing (11) can be made as small as possible compared to the case where the HEPA filters (23, 24) and the deodorizing filters (25, 26) are arranged downstream (here, above) of the outlets (33d, 34d) of the fan unit (30).

[0134] In this embodiment, the casing (11) has a third suction port (19) that draws in air from the front side, and an intermediate passage (19a) that directs the air drawn in through the third suction port (19) toward the upstream side of the filters (23, 24, 25, 26). Air can be drawn in from a plurality of locations and appropriately passed through the filters (23, 24, 25, 26), thereby improving the air purification efficiency.

[0135] In this embodiment, the casing (11) has a grill (71) between the deodorizing filters (25, 26) and the fan unit (30), and is provided with a fixing member (73) and a lever (74) for fixing the deodorizing filters (25, 26) in a state aligned with the grill (71). It is possible to prevent the deodorizing filters (25, 26) from moving unexpectedly, and it is possible to maintain a high air purification effect. Moreover, in this embodiment, the deodorizing filters (25, 26) are supported in the vertical direction by pins (72) provided on the grill (71), and therefore movement of the deodorizing filters (25, 26) is more effectively prevented.

[0136] In this embodiment, the discharge unit (27, 28) that generates active species is provided, and the casing (11) has a discharge passage (80, 87) that discharges the active species generated by the discharge unit (27, 28) toward the upstream side of the HEPA filter (23, 24) and the deodorizing filter (25, 26). Even if the HEPA filter (23, 24) and the deodorizing filter (25, 26) are located upstream of the impeller (31, 32) as in this embodiment, the discharge passage (80, 87) can cause the active species to adhere to the filter (23, 24, 25, 26), thereby improving the air purification effect. In particular, the discharge passage (80, 87) has a plurality of discharge holes (83a, 84a) on both sides of the opposing sides of the HEPA filter (23, 24), so that the active species can be attached to the entire surface of the HEPA filter (23, 24).

[0137] (7) Variations The above embodiment may be modified as follows.

[0138] 20, the appearance of the first fan housing (233) and the appearance of the second fan housing (234) are asymmetric with respect to a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (X). Specifically, the second outlet (234a) is disposed to be shifted forward with respect to the first outlet (233a). Even in this configuration, the fan motor (40) is accommodated in the motor accommodating space (47) defined by the first fan housing (233) and the second fan housing (234).

[0139] Any configuration may be used as long as the appearance of the first fan housing (233) and the appearance of the second fan housing (234) are asymmetric with respect to a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (X). For example, the second outlet (234a) may be inclined forward or backward with respect to the first outlet (233a). In addition, the second impeller (32) may be smaller in the direction of the rotation axis (X) than the first impeller (31), and the second fan housing (234) may be smaller in the direction of the rotation axis (X) than the first fan housing (233).

[0140] (8) Other embodiments The fan unit (30) may be used in devices other than the air purifier (10). For example, the fan unit (30) may be used in a blower.

[0141] The air purifier (10) does not necessarily have to include the humidification unit (50).

[0142] A part of the motor accommodating space (47) is formed in the first fan housing (33), and the remaining part is formed in the second fan housing (34). The motor accommodating space (47) may be formed only in the first fan housing (33) or only in the second fan housing (34). For example, when the motor accommodating space (47) is formed only in the first fan housing (33), the motor accommodating space (47) may be defined by only the first rib (35), and the second rib (36) may be omitted.

[0143] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications of form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be appropriately combined or substituted as long as the functions of the subject of the present disclosure are not impaired.

[0144] The descriptions "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the words to which these descriptions are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the words. [Industrial Applicability]

[0145] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for a fan unit and an air purifier. [Explanation of symbols]

[0146] 10. Air Purifier 11 Casing 15 First suction port (main suction port) 16 Second suction port (main suction port) 19 Third suction port 19a Transit Passage 23 First HEPA filter 24 Second HEPA filter 25 First deodorizing filter 26 Second deodorizing filter 27 First discharge unit (active species generation unit) 28 Second discharge unit (active species generation unit) 30 Fan Unit 31 First impeller 32 Second impeller 33 First Fan Housing 34 Second Fan Housing 35 First Rib 35c First radial rib (contact portion) 35d First circumferential rib (contact part) 35e Engagement recess (positioning portion) 36 Second Rib 36c Second radial rib (contact portion, positioning portion) 36d Second circumferential rib (contact portion, positioning portion) 40 Fan motor 41 Motor body 42 Output shaft 43a Outer periphery 44a Outer periphery 46 Anti-vibration material 47 Motor housing space 71 Grill 73 Fixing member (fixing part) 74 Lever (fixed part) 80 1st discharge passage 87 Second discharge passage 233 First Fan Housing 234 Second Fan Housing L1 1st distance L2 2nd distance L3 3rd distance P Air passage W3 Radial length of impeller X Rotation Axis

Claims

1. a fan motor (40) having a motor body (41) and an output shaft (42) extending from the motor body (41) on both sides in a rotation axis direction; a first impeller (31) connected to one of the output shafts (42); a second impeller (32) connected to the other output shaft (42) and disposed together with the first impeller (31) with the fan motor (40) interposed therebetween; a first fan housing (33) that houses the first impeller (31); a second fan housing (34) that houses the second impeller (32), At least one of the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) is a fan unit having an accommodation space (47) for accommodating the fan motor (40).

2. The fan unit according to claim 1, the first fan housing (33) constitutes a part of the accommodation space (47), The second fan housing (34) is a fan unit forming the remainder of the accommodation space (47).

3. The fan unit according to claim 1 or 2, the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) are fastened to the output shaft (42); A fan unit in which a first distance (L1) which is the distance from an end of a fastening portion between the first impeller (31) and the output shaft (42) on the motor body (41) side to an end of the motor body (41) on the first impeller (31) side, and a second distance (L2) which is the distance from an end of a fastening portion between the second impeller (32) and the output shaft (42) on the motor body (41) side to an end of the motor body (41) on the second impeller (32) side, are each 4.4 mm or more.

4. The fan unit according to claim 3, A fan unit, wherein the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2) are each between 4.4 mm and 6.0 mm.

5. The fan unit according to claim 1, a vibration isolating member (46) is provided on the outer periphery of the motor body (41); The first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) are fan units having contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) that come into contact with the vibration-proof member (46).

6. The fan unit according to claim 5, The contact portion (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) has a curved surface, The vibration-proof member (46) is a fan unit that comes into contact with the curved surfaces of the contact portions (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d).

7. The fan unit according to claim 6, A fan unit in which the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the contact portion (35c, 35d, 36c, 36d) is larger than the radius of curvature of the contact portion of the vibration-proof member (46).

8. The fan unit according to any one of claims 5 to 7, The vibration-isolating member (46) is a fan unit made of an elastic body.

9. The fan unit according to claim 1 or 2, the first fan housing (33) has a first rib (35) that is provided to surround the fan motor (40) and extends toward the second fan housing (34); the second fan housing (34) has a second rib (36) that is provided to surround the fan motor (40) and extends toward the first fan housing (33); The first rib (35) and the second rib (36) overlap each other in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis direction.

10. The fan unit according to claim 1 or 2, The fan unit includes positioning portions (35e, 36c, 36d), each of which positions the first fan housing (33) and the second fan housing (34) when they are coupled to each other.

11. The fan unit according to claim 1 or 2, A fan unit in which the appearance of the first fan housing (33) and the appearance of the second fan housing (34) are asymmetric with respect to a plane perpendicular to the direction of the rotation axis.

12. The fan unit according to claim 1 or 2, A fan unit, wherein a radial length (W3) of the first impeller (31) and the second impeller (32) is three times or more the thickness (L3) of the fan motor (40).

13. The fan unit according to claim 1 or 2, The fan motor (40) is an axial gap type motor fan unit.

14. A fan unit (30) according to claim 1; and a casing (11) that houses the fan unit (30).

15. The air purifier according to claim 14, The casing (11) has main suction ports (15, 16) for sucking air on both sides in the direction of the rotation shaft, The air purifier further comprises a filter (23, 24, 25, 26) disposed in an air passage (P) from the main suction inlet (15, 16) to the fan unit (30).

16. The air purifier according to claim 15, The casing (11) is an auxiliary suction port (19) that draws in air from a direction perpendicular to both the rotation axis direction and the vertical direction; a relay passage (19a) through which the air sucked through the sub-suction port (19) flows toward the upstream side of the filters (23, 24, 25, 26); An air purifier having

17. 17. The air purifier according to claim 15 or 16, the casing (11) has a grill (71) between the filters (25, 26) and the fan unit (30); The air purifier further comprises fixing parts (73, 74) for fixing the filters (26, 26) in a state aligned with the grill (71).

18. 17. The air purifier according to claim 15 or 16, an active species generating unit (27, 28) for generating active species; The casing (11) has a discharge passage (80, 87) through which the active species generated in the active species generation section (27, 28) is discharged upstream of the filter (23, 24, 25, 26).

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