Air cleaner

Abstract

To provide an air cleaner preventing a flow rate of blowout air from decreasing.SOLUTION: The air cleaner comprises: a switching mechanism (A) disposed in an air passage (P) to switch the passage of air flowing to a humidifying filter (54); and a controller (C) controlling the switching mechanism (A), wherein the controller (C) switches the switching mechanism (A) to a first mode of transferring air in the upstream side of the humidifying filter (54) so that air flows through the humidifying filter (54), and to a second mode of letting air in the upstream side of the humidifying filter (54) bypass the humidifying filter (54) to transfer air to blowout ports (12a, 12b).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air purifier. [Background technology]

[0002] In the air conditioner described in Patent Document 1, an air purifying filter, a humidifying filter, and a fan are arranged in this order from upstream to downstream of the air flow. Inside the air conditioner, a first air passage is formed in which air that has passed through the air purifying filter does not pass through the humidifying filter, and a second air passage is formed in which air that has passed through the air purifying filter passes through the humidifying filter. A partition that opens and closes the first air passage is provided in the first air passage.

[0003] In humidification operation, the partition is closed so that almost all of the air taken in through the suction port flows through the first air passage, whereas in non-humidification operation, the partition is opened so that the air taken in through the suction port flows through both the first air passage and the second air passage. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-42935 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In non-humidified operation, the air in the first air passage that has passed through the air purification filter passes through the humidifying filter. Because the humidifying filter acts as a resistance to the air flow, there is a risk that the volume of air blown out from the air outlet will decrease.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an air purifier that suppresses a decrease in the volume of blown air. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The first aspect is A casing (11); An air passage (P) formed in the casing (11); a fan unit (30) that transports air in the air passage (P) from the suction openings (15, 16, 19) toward the air outlets (12a, 12b); an air purification unit (20) disposed in the air passage (P) for purifying air; a humidification filter (54) that is disposed in the air passage (P) and that humidifies air passing through the air passage (P) by supplying water thereto; a switching mechanism (A) disposed in the air passage (P) for switching a flow path of air flowing to the humidifying filter (54); A control unit (C) that controls the switching mechanism (A), The control unit (C) a first mode in which air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) is transported to pass through the humidifying filter (54); a second mode in which the air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) is transported to the air outlets (12a, 12b) bypassing the humidifying filter (54). It is an air purifier.

[0008] In the first aspect, the first mode causes substantially all of the air in the air passage (P) to pass through the humidifying filter (54), thereby suppressing a decrease in the amount of humidification of the air in the air passage (P). In addition, the second mode bypasses the humidifying filter (54), thereby suppressing the humidifying filter (54) from acting as resistance to the air flow in the air passage (P). As a result, in the second mode, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the amount of purified air blown out.

[0009] The second aspect is the first aspect, The air passage (P) has a first passage (51a) and a second passage (51b) separated by the humidification filter (54), The control unit (C) controls the switching mechanism (A) in the first mode so as to cause air on the upstream side of the air passage (P) to flow into the first passage (51a) and to cause the air in the first passage (51a) to flow into the second passage (51b) via the humidification filter (54).

[0010] In the second embodiment, in the first mode, substantially the entire amount of air in the first passageway (51a) can be passed through the humidification filter (54). This makes it possible to prevent a reduction in the amount of humidification of the air taken into the air purifier (10).

[0011] The third aspect is the second aspect, The control unit (C) controls the switching mechanism (A) in the second mode so as to cause the air in the air passage (P) to flow into the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) and to transport the air in the first passage (51a) and the air in the second passage (51b) to the air outlets (12a, 12b) without passing the air in the first passage (51a) through the humidification filter (54).

[0012] In the third aspect, in the second mode, the air that has flowed into the first passages (51a) bypasses the humidifying filter (54) and flows to the air outlets (12a, 12b). Since the air that has flowed into the first passages (51a) bypasses the humidifying filter (54) and flows to the air outlets (12a, 12b), it is possible to reduce resistance to the air flow through the first passages (51a). This makes it possible to suppress a decrease in the volume of purified air flowing through the first passages (51a) and the second passages (51b).

[0013] A fourth aspect is any one of the second or third aspects, The air outlets (12a, 12b) are a first outlet (12a) communicating with the first passageway (51a); a second outlet (12b) communicating with the second passage (51b), The switching mechanism (A) is a first damper (56) that opens and closes the first passage (51a) so as to adjust the flow of air from the first passage (51a) toward the first air outlet (12a); a second damper (55) that opens and closes the second passage (51b) so as to adjust the flow of air from the suction port (15, 16, 19) to the second passage (51b), The control unit (C) In the first mode, the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are closed, In the second mode, the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are opened.

[0014] In the fourth aspect, in the first mode, the inflow of air into the second passage (51b) is restricted, and substantially all of the air in the air passage (P) flows into the first passage (51a). Since the first damper (56) is closed, substantially all of the air in the first passage (51a) flows into the second passage (51b) through the humidifying filter (54), thereby preventing a decrease in the amount of humidification of the air in the first passage (51a). In the second mode, the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) are opened, and therefore the air in the second passage (51b) is blown out through the second outlet (12b), and the air in the first passage (51a) is blown out through the first outlet (12a) without passing through the humidifying filter (54). In this way, the humidifying filter (54) is prevented from acting as a resistance to the air flow in the humidifying space (51), and a decrease in the amount of purified air blown out can be prevented.

[0015] A fifth aspect is any one of the second to fourth aspects, a tank (52) for supplying water to the humidifying filter (54), The tank (52) does not overlap the first passage (51a) or the second passage (51b) when viewed from the direction of air flow in the air passage (P).

[0016] In the fifth aspect, the tank (52) is prevented from acting as a resistance to the air flow in the first passageway (51a) and the second passageway (51b), thereby facilitating the flow of air through the first passageway (51a) and the second passageway (51b).

[0017] The sixth aspect is the fifth aspect, the humidifying apparatus further includes a water tray (53) that receives water from the tank (52) and stores water to be supplied to the humidifying filter (54); The water tray (53) does not overlap the first passage (51a) or the second passage (51b) when viewed from the direction of air flow in the air passage (P).

[0018] In the sixth aspect, the water tray (53) is prevented from acting as a resistance to the air flow in the first passages (51a) and the second passages (51b), and the flow of air through the first passages (51a) and the second passages (51b) can be promoted.

[0019] The seventh aspect is any one of the first to sixth aspects, The humidifying filter (54) is disposed in the air passage (P) such that the filter surface of the humidifying filter (54) is along the side surface of the casing (11).

[0020] In the seventh aspect, the air passage (P) is provided along the filter surface of the humidifying filter (54), so that in the second mode, air bypassing the upstream side of the humidifying filter (54) flows along the upstream surface of the humidifying filter (54). In this manner, air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) can be easily bypassed in the second mode.

[0021] The eighth aspect is any one of the first to seventh aspects, The humidifying filter (54) is configured to rotate to supply water. When the rotation of the humidifying filter (54) stops in the first mode, the control section (C) switches to the second mode.

[0022] When the rotation of the humidifying filter (54) stops, the supply of water to the humidifying filter (54) stops, and the humidifying filter (54) starts to dry. During this drying process, the humidifying filter (54) may emit an unpleasant odor due to being so-called "semi-dry." In contrast, in the eighth aspect, by switching to the second mode, the air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) is bypassed to the air outlets (12a, 12b) and does not pass through the humidifying filter (54). This makes it possible to prevent the air purifier from releasing an unpleasant odor into the room.

[0023] A ninth aspect is any one of the first to eighth aspects, The humidifying filter (54) is configured to rotate to supply water. The control unit (C) Controlling the rotation of the humidifying filter (54); When the first mode is selected, the second mode is executed from the time when the humidifying filter (54) starts to rotate until the humidifying filter (54) reaches a first state in which it contains water, and when the humidifying filter (54) reaches the first state, the mode is switched to the first mode.

[0024] After water supply is started when the humidifying filter (54) is in a dry state, it takes a predetermined time for the water to be retained in the humidifying filter (54). If air in the air passage (P) passes through the humidifying filter (54) during this time, there is a possibility that water that is not retained in the humidifying filter (54) will splash. In contrast, in the ninth aspect, the second mode is executed until the humidifying filter (54) reaches the first state in which it contains water, thereby preventing the water in the air passage (P) from passing through the humidifying filter (54) and preventing the water from splashing.

[0025] In a tenth aspect, the method of the ninth aspect further comprises: The first state is a state in which a predetermined time has elapsed since the humidifying filter (54) started to rotate.

[0026] In the tenth aspect, it is possible to easily determine whether the first state has been reached simply by measuring the time. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] [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 diagram showing a cross section of the air purifier in the left-right direction. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section in the front-rear direction of the air purifier in the first mode. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a view of the water tray and the humidifying filter seen obliquely from above. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram corresponding to FIG. 3 of the air purifier in the second mode. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the relationship between the control unit and various devices. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the control of the damper and the humidifying filter by the control unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing control of the damper and the humidifying filter by the control unit according to the modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing an expanded subroutine of step ST33 in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] 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 ease of understanding.

[0029] (1) Overall configuration of the air purifier The overall configuration of the air purifier of this embodiment 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.

[0030] The air purifier (10) of the present embodiment purifies the air in an indoor space. In addition, the air purifier (10) humidifies the air in the indoor space. 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.

[0031] (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).

[0032] The top plate (11a) is formed with air outlets (12a, 12b). The air outlets (12a, 12b) are formed in a rectangular shape, and are formed slightly rearward of the top plate (11a). The air outlets (12a, 12b) are provided with an air direction adjustment mechanism (13) that adjusts the direction of the air blown out. The air direction adjustment mechanism (13) has a first flap (13a) and a second flap (13b). The first flap (13a) and the second flap (13b) are rectangular slat members. The flaps (13a, 13b) extend in the left-right direction of the air outlets (12a, 12b). The two flaps (13a, 13b) are aligned in the front-rear direction above the air outlets (12a, 12b). In the following description, the portion of the air outlets (12a, 12b) that is covered by the first flap (13a) is referred to as the first air outlet (12a), and the portion that is covered by the second flap (13b) is referred to as the second air outlet (12b). The first flap (13a) is disposed in the first air outlet (12a). The second flap (13b) is disposed in the second air outlet (12b). The airflow direction adjustment mechanism (13) has a flap motor (not shown). A flap motor is connected to each flap (13a, 13b), and the position of each flap (13a, 13b) is changed by driving the flap motor. The direction of the blown air is adjusted by changing the position of each flap (13a, 13b).

[0033] An operation panel (14) and an alarm unit (35) are 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 the operation mode and various settings of the air purifier (10). The alarm unit (35) notifies the user of abnormalities, etc. of the air purifier (10) by display or sound.

[0034] 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 port (18) of the tank (52) of the humidification unit (50). The openable lid (17) is removable from the casing (11). An opening (17a) is formed in the upper part of the openable lid (17). The user places his / her hand on the opening (17a) and pulls out the upper part of the openable lid (17) to the right (front). This tilts the upper part of the openable lid (17) to the right, and the access port (18) is opened. Thereafter, the openable lid (17) is moved upward to remove the openable lid (17) from the casing (11). A user can remove the tank (52) from the casing (11) through the access opening (18).

[0035] 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).

[0036] A third suction port (19) is formed at the lower end of the front plate (11c) and extends horizontally from the left to the right ends of the casing (11).

[0037] 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 outlets (12a, 12b) form an outlet end of the air passage (P).

[0038] (1-2) Air purifier unit The air purification unit (20) is disposed in the air passage (P). The air purification unit (20) purifies the air in the air passage (P). Specifically, the air purification unit (20) is located at the lower part of the air passage (P). The air purification unit (20) purifies the air sucked 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), a fan unit (30), and a discharge unit (27, 28).

[0039] (1-2-1) Prefilter 2, the casing (11) is provided with three prefilters: a first prefilter (21), a second prefilter (22), and a third prefilter (not shown). The first prefilter (21) is disposed in the first suction inlet (15), the second prefilter (22) is disposed in the second suction inlet (16), and the third prefilter is disposed in the third suction inlet (19). The first prefilter (21) and the second prefilter (22) collect relatively large dust particles in the air.

[0040] (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 vertical direction. The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) have an electrostatic function of collecting particles by electrostatic force. The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) may have a laminated structure in which two or more filter materials are laminated in the air passage direction.

[0041] (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.

[0042] (1-3) Fan unit The fan unit (30) is disposed at the bottom of the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) transports air through 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 of the axial direction of the drive shaft (the rotation shaft of the impeller). The blowing portion of the fan unit (30) faces upward. The fan unit (30) has a fan motor (not shown) that drives the impeller. The fan motor is housed in a fan housing (not shown). When the fan unit (30) is operated, air from the indoor 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 indoor space through the blowing ports (12a, 12b). The detailed configuration of the fan unit (30) will be described later.

[0043] (1-4) 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). The discharge units (27, 28) are disposed in the air passage (P) near the rear plate (11d).

[0044] The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate active species for oxidative decomposition of air by discharging. 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. The active species generated by the first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) are discharged through the discharge path (62) to the air passage (P) upstream of the first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24).

[0045] (1-5) Humidification unit The humidification unit (50) is disposed between the air outlet of the fan unit (30) and the air outlets (12a, 12b) 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 FIGS. 3 and 5, the humidification unit (50) includes a tank (52), a water tray (53), and a humidification filter (54).

[0046] (1-5-1) 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.

[0047] The tank (52) is placed on a first tray portion (53a) described below. The tank (52) extends from the left to right ends of the casing (11) along the inner surface of the front plate (11c). The side walls of the tank body (52a) extend in the vertical direction.

[0048] The tank (52) has a tank body (52a) and a lid (52b). Substantially the entire top surface of the tank body (52a) is open. The lid (52b) is removably attached to the top surface of the tank body (52a). The lid (52b) is a flat plate-shaped member made of resin. From the viewpoint of ease of attachment and removal from the tank body (52a), the lid (52b) is preferably made of a relatively soft material.

[0049] A water supply hole (65) and a water supply valve (64) for opening and closing the water supply hole (65) are provided on the underside of the tank body (52a). The water supply hole (65) is located in approximately the center of the underside of the tank body (52a). The water supply valve (64) moves up and down in the water supply hole (65) according to the water level in the water tray (53). Specifically, when the water level in the water tray (53) is equal to or higher than a predetermined water level, the water supply valve (64) closes the water supply hole (65) and water is not supplied from the tank (52) to the water tray (53). On the other hand, when the water level in the water tray (53) falls below the predetermined water level, the water supply valve (64) moves upward to open the water supply hole (65). As a result, water is supplied from the tank (52) to the water tray (53). The vertical movement of the water supply valve (64) is regulated by a float switch (70) that moves up and down according to the water level in the water tray (53). The float switch (70) is provided in the water tray (53).

[0050] (1-5-2) Water tray The water tray (53) stores the water supplied from the tank (52). The water tray (53) constitutes a water storage section for supplying water to the water absorbing member of the humidifying filter (54). The water tray (53) is a container with an open top. The side walls of the water tray (53) extend in the vertical direction.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 4, the water tray (53) is formed in a ring shape when viewed from above. Specifically, the water tray (53) has a first tray portion (53a) and a second tray portion (53b) adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction. The first tray portion (53a) and the second tray portion (53b) are connected to each other via a partition plate (59) having a communication hole (58) formed therein. The communication hole (58) is formed in the lower part of the partition plate (59), and the water in the first tray portion (53a) and the water in the second tray portion (53b) come and go through the communication hole (58), so that the water level in the first tray portion (53a) and the water level in the second tray portion (53b) become the same.

[0052] The first tray portion (53a) is a portion on which the tank (52) is placed. The first tray portion (53a) is formed in a U-shape when viewed from above. Specifically, the first tray portion (53a) has a portion extending in the left-right direction along the front plate (11c) of the casing (11) and portions extending along the right and left plates. When the tank (52) is placed on the water tray (53), the side wall of the first tray portion (53a) is generally flush with the side wall of the tank (52) when viewed from above. In particular, the surface constituting the rear wall of the first tray portion (53a) and the surface constituting the rear wall of the tank (52) are flat.

[0053] The second tray portion (53b) is a portion in which the humidifying filter (54) is disposed. The second tray portion (53b) extends in the left-right direction, approximately rearward of the center inside the casing (11). The second tray portion (53b) is connected to the first tray portion (53a) at its left and right ends. Water that has flowed from the tank (52) into the first tray portion (53a) flows toward the partition plate (59) and enters the second tray portion (53b) through the communication hole (58). Water accumulates in the second tray portion (53b) so that it can be supplied to the humidifying filter (54).

[0054] (1-6) Humidification filter The humidifying filter (54) is formed in a generally circular plate shape. The humidifying filter (54) is disposed in the second tray portion (53b). A lower portion of the humidifying filter (54) is disposed in the second tray portion (53b). The humidifying filter (54) is disposed in the air passage (P) such that a filter surface of the humidifying filter (54) is aligned along a side surface of the casing (11). Specifically, the humidifying filter (54) is disposed such that its filter surface faces the front plate (11c) and the rear plate (11d).

[0055] The humidifying filter (54) humidifies the air flowing through the air passage (P) by supplying water thereto. The humidifying filter (54) divides the humidifying space (51) into a primary space (51a) and a secondary space (51b). When air passes through the humidifying filter (54), the primary space (51a) is formed upstream of the humidifying filter (54). The secondary space (51b) is formed downstream of the humidifying filter (54). Specifically, the primary space (51a) communicates with the outlet of the fan unit (30) and the first outlet (12a) upstream of the humidifying filter (54). The secondary space (51b) communicates with the outlet of the fan unit (30) and the second outlet (12b) downstream of the humidifying filter (54). The air outlet of the fan unit (30) shares an inlet end with both the primary space (51a) and the secondary space (51b).

[0056] As shown in Fig. 3, the primary space (51a) constitutes an air passage extending in the vertical direction from the outlet of the fan unit (30) toward the first outlet (12a). Hereinafter, the primary space (51a) is referred to as the first passage (51a). Air flowing into the first passage (51a) from the outlet of the fan unit (30) passes through the space inside the water tray (53) (between the first tray portion (53a) and the second tray portion (53b)) and the space between the tank (52) and the humidifying filter (54), and is then blown out into the room through the first outlet (12a).

[0057] The tank (52) does not overlap the first passage (51a) when viewed from the direction of air flow in the air passage (P). Specifically, the water tray (53) is arranged so as not to overlap the first passage (51a) when viewed from the direction of air flow in the air passage (P). More specifically, the tank (52) does not overlap the first passage (51a) when viewed from above the first passage (51a). In this manner, the tank (52) and the water tray (53) are arranged so as not to provide resistance to the upward air flow in the first passage (51a) or to minimize such resistance. Specifically, the inner wall (57) of the water tray (53) and the rear side surface of the tank body (52a) form part of the side surface of the first passage (51a). As described above, the inner wall (57) of the water tray (53) and the rear side surface of the tank body (52a) extend in the vertical direction, and the rear side surface of the first tray portion (53a) and the rear side surface of the tank body (52a) are connected flush with each other, thereby reducing resistance to the air flowing upward in the first passage (51a).

[0058] The secondary space (51b) constitutes an air passage extending from the outlet of the fan unit (30) toward the second outlet (12b). Hereinafter, the secondary space (51b) is referred to as the second passage (51b). Air flowing from the outlet of the fan unit (30) into the second passage (51b) passes through the space between the outside of the water tray (53) (the rear side surface of the second tray portion (53b)) and the rear plate (11d) and the space between the humidifying filter (54) and the rear plate (11d), and is then blown out into the room through the second outlet (12b).

[0059] The water tray (53) does not overlap the second passage (51b) when viewed from the direction of air flow in the air passage (P). Specifically, the water tray (53) is disposed so as not to overlap the second passage (51b) when viewed from above the second passage (51b). In other words, the water tray (53) is disposed so as not to create resistance to the air flowing upward in the second passage (51b) or to minimize such resistance.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 4, the humidification filter (54) has a filter base material (54a), a frame portion (54b), and a water collecting portion (54c). The filter base material (54a) is made of a material that absorbs water. The filter base material (54a) is, for example, a nonwoven fabric. The filter base material (54a) is formed in a disk shape. The filter base material (54a) is held inside the frame portion (54b).

[0061] The frame portion (54b) is formed in an annular shape. An engagement portion (not shown) that engages with a gear (described later) is provided on the outer periphery of the frame portion (54b). The gear is connected to a motor, and rotates when the motor is driven. As a result, the frame portion (54b) rotates while housing the filter base material (54a). The rotation of the humidifying filter (54) is controlled by the control portion (C).

[0062] The water pumping section (54c) collects water pumped from the water tray (53) and then discharges the collected water toward the filter substrate (54a). Specifically, a plurality of water pumping sections (54c) are provided along the outer periphery of the frame section (54b). The water pumping section (54c) has an inlet for taking in water from the water tray (53) and an outlet for discharging the collected water. As a result, when the humidifying filter (54) rotates, water from the water tray (53) flows into the inlet and is collected in the water pumping section (54c). When the humidifying filter (54) further rotates and the water pumping section (54c) moves to the top of the humidifying filter (54), the water is discharged from the outlet to the filter substrate (54a). The filter substrate (54a) is supplied with water in this manner, and thereby the filter substrate (54a) retains water. As air flows through the humidifying filter (54) holding water from the first passage (51a) to the second passage (51b), water is added to the air. While the humidifying filter (54) continues to rotate, the water scoops (54c) continue to supply water to the filter base material (54a) in turn, so that the filter base material (54a) remains moist even when water is added to the air from the humidifying filter (54).

[0063] (1-7) Sensor As shown in FIG. 6, the air purifier (10) has a humidity sensor (45) and a water level sensor (46). The humidity sensor (45) detects the humidity of the air in the room, specifically, the relative humidity. The humidity sensor (45) is disposed above the first HEPA filter (23) and the first deodorizing filter (25). The water level sensor (46) detects the water level in the water tray (53). The water level sensor (46) is, for example, a proximity center, and detects the water level in the water tray (53) by the vertical movement of a float switch (70). When the water level in the water tray (53) falls below a predetermined value, the water level sensor (46) outputs a predetermined signal to a control unit (C) described below.

[0064] (1-8) Switching mechanism 3, the air purifier (10) of the present embodiment has a switching mechanism (A) that switches the flow path of air to the humidifying filter (54). The switching mechanism (A) is disposed in the air passage (P).

[0065] The switching mechanism (A) has a first damper (56) and a second damper (55). The first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are provided in the humidification space (51). The first damper (56) is provided in the first passage (51a). The second damper (55) is provided in the second passage (51b).

[0066] The first damper (56) opens and closes the first passage (51a) to adjust the flow of air from the first passage (51a) to the first air outlet (12a). The first damper (56) is disposed in the first passage (51a) at a height position below the first air outlet (12a) and above the humidification filter (54). The first damper (56) is disposed at the upstream end of the first passage (51a).

[0067] The second damper (55) opens and closes the second passage (51b) to adjust the flow of air from the suction openings (15, 16, 19) to the second passage (51b). The second damper (55) is disposed in the second passage (51b) at a height position corresponding to the lower end of the second tray portion (53b).

[0068] The first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are formed in a blade shape. The switching mechanism (A) has a damper motor (not shown) that controls the attitudes of the first damper (56) and the second damper (55). The first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are opened and closed in conjunction with each other by the damper motor. Specifically, when the first damper (56) is in a closed state, the second damper (55) is also in a closed state, and when the first damper (56) is in an open state, the second damper (55) is also in an open state.

[0069] The first damper (56) and the second damper (55) change the air passage (P) in the humidification space (51). As shown in Fig. 3, when both the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are in a closed state, the air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows into the first passage (51a), passes through the humidification filter (54), flows out into the second passage (51b), and is discharged from the second outlet (12b). At this time, the humidified air is discharged from the second outlet (12b). On the other hand, when both the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are in an open state as shown in Fig. 5, the air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows into the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b). The air in both the passages (51a, 51b) flows upward along the filter surface of the humidification filter (54) and is discharged through the air outlets (12a, 12b).

[0070] (1-9) Operation panel The operation panel (14) is an operation unit through which the user inputs various settings. The user can select between a "purifying operation" and a "humidifying operation" by operating the operation panel (14). The cleaning operation is an operation in which the air is purified without being humidified. The humidifying operation is an operation in which the air is humidified and purified at the same time.

[0071] By operating the operation panel (14), the user can select the airflow rate from five modes: "automatic," "low," "medium," "high," and "maximum."

[0072] A user can select between a "manual airflow direction mode" and an "automatic airflow direction mode" by operating the operation panel (14). In the "manual airflow direction mode", the user can set the airflow direction of the air outlets (12a, 12b) to a desired airflow direction between the first airflow direction and the second airflow direction.

[0073] (1-10) Notification unit The notification unit (35) includes a display and a speaker. The display shows the current humidity in the room, the target humidity, etc. If an abnormality occurs with the air purifier or its operation, the display indicates what type of abnormality it is. An abnormality may be, for example, when the water level in the water tray (53) falls below a predetermined water level, or when the humidifying filter (54) stops rotating due to a malfunction. The speaker issues an alarm or sounds a sound if an abnormality occurs with the air purifier or its operation.

[0074] (1-11) Control section The air purifier (10) includes a control unit (C). The control unit (C) has a microcomputer and a memory device that stores software for operating the microcomputer.

[0075] 6, the control unit (C) controls the discharge units (27, 28), the fan unit (30), the humidification unit (50), the airflow direction adjustment mechanism (13), and the notification unit (35). Specifically, the control unit (C) controls the rotation speed of the fans, the open / closed states of the flaps (13a, 13b), the ON / OFF state of the discharge units (27, 28), and the rotation and stop of the humidification filter (54). The control unit (C) receives detection signals from the humidity sensor (45) and the water level sensor (46).

[0076] The control unit (C) controls the switching mechanism (A). Specifically, the control unit (C) controls the damper motor to open and close the first damper (56) and the second damper (55).

[0077] (2) Driving behavior The operation of the air purifier (10) will be described. The air purifier (10) performs a cleaning operation and a humidification operation. The cleaning operation is an operation for cleaning the air in an indoor space. In the cleaning operation, the humidification function is stopped. In the humidification operation, the air in an indoor space is cleaned and humidified at the same time. The control unit (C) switches the switching mechanism (A) between a first mode and a second mode during the operation of the air purifier (10). The first mode and the second mode will be described later.

[0078] (2-1) Clean operation In principle, in the cleaning operation, the fan unit (30) and the discharge units (27, 28) are driven, and the humidifying filter (54) is stopped. Air from the indoor space is sucked into the air passage (P) through each of the first suction inlet (15), the second suction inlet (16), and the third suction inlet (19). The air sucked through the first to third suction inlets (15, 16, 19) passes through the prefilters (21, 22) of each suction inlet (15, 16, 19). The prefilters (21, 22) capture relatively large dust particles in the air. Upstream of the HEPA filters (23, 24) and downstream of the prefilters (21, 22), odorous components in the air are oxidized and decomposed by the active species released from the discharge units (27, 28).

[0079] The air that has passed through each of the prefilters (21, 22) passes in turn through each of the HEPA filters (23, 24) and each of the deodorizing filters (25, 26).

[0080] Here, the second mode is executed in the cleaning operation. In the second mode, the air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) is transported to the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b) while bypassing the humidifying filter (54). In the second mode, the control unit (C) controls the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) so that the air in the air passage (P) flows into the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) and the air in the first passage (51a) and the air in the second passage (51b) are transported to the outlets (12a, 12b). Specifically, in the second mode, the control unit (C) opens the first damper (56) and the second damper (55). As a result, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 5, part of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows through the first passage (51a) and the remaining part flows through the second passage (51b). The air in the first passageway (51a) is blown out through the first outlet (12a) into the indoor space, and the air in the second passageway (51b) is blown out through the second outlet (12b) into the indoor space.

[0081] (2-2) Humidification operation In the humidification operation, the fan unit (30) and the discharge units (27, 28) are driven. In principle, the humidification filter (54) is in a rotating state. In the humidification operation, the air is purified in the same manner as in the purification operation described above.

[0082] Here, the first mode is executed in the humidification operation. In the first mode, air upstream of the humidification filter (54) is conveyed to pass through the humidification filter (54). In the first mode, the control unit (C) controls the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) to cause the air in the air passage (P) to flow into the first passage (51a) and the air in the first passage (51a) to flow into the second passage (51b) via the humidification filter (54). Specifically, the control unit (C) closes the first damper (56) and the second damper (55). As a result, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 3, the air blown out from the fan unit (30) does not flow into the second passage (51b) but entirely flows through the first passage (51a). Because the first damper (56) is closed, all of the air in the first passage (51a) passes through the humidification filter (54) in the axial direction. In the humidification filter (54), moisture from the filter substrate (54a) is imparted to the air. The air humidified by the humidification filter (54) flows into the second passageway (51b) and is blown out through the second outlet (12b) into the room.

[0083] (3) Operation of the control unit Next, details of control of the humidifying filter (54) and the switching mechanism (A) during operation of the air purifier (10) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

[0084] When the air purifier (10) is started up based on a user operation, step ST11 is executed.

[0085] In step ST11, the control section (C) executes the second mode, which opens the first damper (56) and the second damper (55).

[0086] In step ST12, the control unit (C) determines whether the humidification operation has been selected. Here, the user operates the operation panel (14) to select either the humidification operation or the air purification operation. When the humidification operation is selected, a signal indicating that the humidification operation has been selected is input to the control unit (C). When the air purification operation is selected, a signal indicating that the air purification operation has been selected is input to the control unit (C). If it is determined that the humidification operation has been selected (YES in step ST12), step ST13 is executed. If it is determined that the humidification operation has not been selected (NO in step ST12), step ST14 is executed.

[0087] In step ST13, the control unit (C) judges whether the current humidity of the indoor space is within a predetermined range. The predetermined range is, for example, whether the value of the current humidity (%) of the indoor space minus the target humidity (%) (both are relative humidity) is 0% or more when the humidity of the indoor space is increasing, and is -3% or more when the humidity of the indoor space is decreasing. If it is judged that the current humidity of the indoor space is within the predetermined range (YES in step ST13), step ST13 is executed again. If it is judged that the current humidity of the indoor space is not within the predetermined range (NO in step ST13), step ST16 is executed.

[0088] In step ST14, the control section (C) executes the air cleaning operation.

[0089] In step ST15, the control unit (C) determines whether a humidification operation is selected during the air purification operation. Here, the humidification operation may be selected based on a user's operation during the air purification operation. If it is determined that the humidification operation is selected (YES in step ST15), step ST13 is executed. If it is determined that the humidification operation is not selected (NO in step ST15), the air purification operation is continued and step ST15 is executed again.

[0090] In step ST16, the control unit (C) starts rotation of the humidifying filter (54). As a result, the humidifying filter (54) rotates, thereby pumping up water in the water tray (53) and supplying the water to the filter substrate (54a).

[0091] In step ST17, the control unit (C) determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the humidifying filter (54) started to rotate. Before the humidifying filter (54) starts to rotate, the filter base material (54a) of the humidifying filter (54) is dry. Therefore, immediately after the humidifying filter (54) starts to rotate, the filter base material (54a) cannot hold the water discharged from the water collecting portion (54c), and water is attached to the surface of the filter base material (54a). As the humidifying filter (54) continues to rotate thereafter, water gradually permeates into the filter base material (54a) and the filter base material (54a) is able to hold water. In this way, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the humidifying filter (54) started to rotate, it can be considered that the filter base material (54a) is able to hold water. The state in which the filter base material (54a) can hold water is the first state in which the humidifying filter (54) contains water. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the humidifying filter (54) started to rotate (YES in step ST17), step ST18 is executed. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the humidifying filter (54) started to rotate (NO in step ST17), step ST17 is executed again.

[0092] In step ST18, the control unit (C) executes the first mode. By executing the first mode, the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are closed. As a result, the air flowing into the first passage (51a) is humidified by passing through the humidifying filter (54). The humidified air flows into the second passage (51b) and is blown out from the second outlet (12b) into the indoor space. In this way, when the first mode is executed immediately after the humidifying filter (54) starts to rotate, water on the filter substrate (54a) that is not held by the filter substrate (54a) may be splashed into the casing (11) by air flowing from the first passage (51a) into the humidifying filter (54). When the water is splashed, it may adhere to components in the casing, or some of the water may be carried through the air passage (P) and splash out from the outlets (12a, 12b) into the indoor space. However, steps ST17 and ST18 prevent water from splashing from the humidifying filter (54).

[0093] In step ST19, the control unit (C) determines whether the current humidity of the indoor space is within a predetermined range. Step ST19 is the same process as step ST13, so the explanation will be omitted. If it is determined that the current humidity of the indoor space is within the predetermined range (YES in step ST19), step ST20 is executed. If it is determined that the current humidity of the indoor space is not within the predetermined range (NO in step ST19), step ST19 is executed again.

[0094] In step ST20, the control section (C) stops the humidifying filter (54), thereby stopping the supply of water to the humidifying filter (54).

[0095] In step ST21, the control unit (C) executes the second mode. This causes the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) to be in an open state. Of the air flowing into the humidification space (51) from the air outlet of the fan unit (30), the air in the first passage (51a) bypasses the humidification filter (54) and is blown out from the first air outlet (12a) into the indoor space, while the air in the second passage (51b) is blown out from the second air outlet (12b). This causes the entire amount of air purified by the air purification unit (20) to be blown out from the entire surface of the air outlets (12a, 12b), thereby preventing a decrease in the amount of blown air.

[0096] Since the humidification operation continues even after step ST21, the control unit (C) may repeatedly execute step ST13 again after step ST21 until the operation of the air purifier (10) stops.

[0097] (4) Features (4-1) Feature 1 The air purifier (10) of this embodiment is provided with a switching mechanism (A) that is disposed in the air passage (P) and switches the flow path of air flowing to the humidifying filter (54), and a controller (C) that controls the switching mechanism (A). The controller (C) switches the switching mechanism (A) between a first mode in which air on the upstream side of the humidifying filter (54) is transported to pass through the humidifying filter (54), and a second mode in which air on the upstream side of the humidifying filter (54) is transported to the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b) bypassing the humidifying filter (54).

[0098] According to this, in the first mode, the air in the air passage (P) passes through the humidifying filter (54), so that it is possible to humidify substantially the entire amount of air in the air passage (P) that is conveyed to the fan unit (30). In this manner, it is possible to prevent air from being blown out of the air outlets (12a, 12b) without being humidified, and it is possible to prevent a decrease in the amount of humidification of the air in the air purifier (10). In addition, in the second mode, the air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) bypasses the humidifying filter (54), so that it is possible to reduce the resistance of the air flow passing through the air passage (P). As a result, in the second mode, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the amount of purified air blown out, and it is also possible to reduce the operating load on the fan unit (30).

[0099] (4-2) Feature 2 In the first mode, the control unit (C) controls the switching mechanism (A) to cause the air in the air passage (P) to flow into the first passage (51a) and to cause the air in the first passage (51a) to flow into the second passage (51b) via the humidification filter (54).

[0100] According to this, in the first mode, substantially the entire amount of air in the first passages (51a) can be passed through the humidification filter (54), thereby making it possible to prevent a reduction in the amount of humidification of the air taken into the air purifier (10).

[0101] (4-3) Feature 3 In the second mode, the control unit (C) causes the air in the air passage (P) to flow into the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b). The control unit (C) controls the switching mechanism (A) to transport the air in the first passage (51a) and the air in the second passage (51b) to the air outlets (12a, 12b).

[0102] According to this, in the second mode, the air that has flowed into the first passage (51a) bypasses the humidifying filter (54) and flows to the first outlet (12a), and the air that has flowed into the second passage (51b) flows to the second outlet (12b), so that resistance to the air flowing through the first passage (51a) can be reduced. This makes it possible to suppress a decrease in the volume of the purified air flowing through the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b).

[0103] (4-4) Feature 4 The air outlets (12a, 12b) have a first air outlet (12a) communicating with the first passage (51a) and a second air outlet (12b) communicating with the second passage (51b). The switching mechanism (A) has a first damper (56) that opens and closes the first passage (51a) to adjust the flow of air from the first passage (51a) to the first air outlet (12a), and a second damper (55) that opens and closes the second passage (51b) to adjust the flow of air from the inlets (15, 16, 19) to the second passage (51b). The control unit (C) closes the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) in the first mode and opens the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) in the second mode.

[0104] The first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) are formed to extend from the outlet of the fan unit (30) to the outlets (12a, 12b) along the filter surface (side surface) of the humidifying filter (54). The first outlet (12a) constitutes the downstream end (air outlet end) of the first passage (51a), and the second outlet (12b) constitutes the downstream end (air outlet end) of the second passage (51b). When the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) are opened in the second mode, the air in the second passage (51b) is blown out from the second outlet (12b), and the air in the first passage (51a) is blown out from the first outlet (12a) without passing through the humidifying filter (54). In this way, in the second mode, the humidifying filter (54) is prevented from acting as a resistance to the air flow in the humidifying space (51), and a decrease in the amount of purified air blown out can be suppressed. In the first mode, the inflow of air from the outlet of the fan unit (30) into the second passage (51b) is restricted, and substantially all of the air in the air passage (P) flows into the first passage (51a). Because the first damper (56) is in the closed state, substantially all of the air in the first passage (51a) flows into the second passage (51b) through the humidifying filter (54), and therefore a decrease in the amount of humidification of the air in the humidifying space (51) can be suppressed.

[0105] (4-5) Feature 5 The tank (52) does not overlap the first passage (51a) when viewed from the direction of air flow in the air passage (P).

[0106] The tank (52) is disposed so that at least a portion of the tank (52) does not overlap the first passage (51a) when the first passage (51a) is viewed from above the first air outlet (12a), thereby preventing the tank (52) from acting as a resistance to the air flow in the first passage (51a), thereby facilitating the flow of air through the first passage (51a).

[0107] (4-6) Feature 6 The water tray (53) does not overlap the first passageway (51a) or the second passageway (51b) when viewed from the direction of air flow in the air passageway (P).

[0108] The inside of the inner frame of the annular water tray (53) constitutes a part of the first passage (51a), and the rear wall of the second tray portion (53b) constitutes a part of the second passage (51b). In this manner, when the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) are viewed from above, the water tray (53) does not overlap the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b), so that the water tray (53) is prevented from acting as a resistance to the air flow in the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b). This makes it possible to promote the flow of air through the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b).

[0109] (4-7) Feature 7 The humidifying filter (54) is disposed in the air passage (P) such that the filter surface of the humidifying filter (54) is aligned along the side surface of the casing (11).

[0110] The humidifying filter (54) is disposed so that its filter surface is along the side surface of the casing (11), and therefore the air blown upward from the fan unit (30) can flow through the humidifying space (51) toward the outlets (12a, 12b) provided in the top plate (11a) without being obstructed by the humidifying filter (54). In particular, the air in the first passage (51a) bypasses the humidifying filter (54) by simply flowing upward in the second mode, and therefore there is no need to provide a complicated mechanism for bypassing the humidifying filter (54), and the second mode can be easily implemented.

[0111] (4-8) Feature 8 The control unit (C) controls the rotation of the humidifying filter (54). When the first mode is selected, the control unit (C) executes the second mode from when the humidifying filter (54) starts to rotate until the humidifying filter (54) reaches a first state in which it contains water, and when the humidifying filter (54) reaches the first state, the control unit (C) switches to the first mode.

[0112] After water supply is started when the humidifying filter (54) is in a dry state, it takes a predetermined time for the water to be retained in the humidifying filter (54). If air in the air passage (P) hits the humidifying filter (54) during this time, there is a possibility that water not retained in the humidifying filter (54) will splash. In contrast, in the air purifier (10) of the present embodiment, the second mode is performed until the humidifying filter (54) reaches the first state in which it contains water, thereby preventing water in the air passage (P) from passing through the humidifying filter (54) and preventing water from splashing.

[0113] (4-9) Feature 9 The first state is a state in which a predetermined time has elapsed since the humidifying filter (54) started to rotate. This makes it possible to easily determine whether the first state has been reached simply by measuring the time.

[0114] (5) Variations A modified example of the control of the dampers (55, 56) by the control unit (C) when the air volume is set to the "highest" mode will be described below. A configuration different from the above embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0115] In step ST31, the control unit (C) sets the air volume to "strongest." Specifically, the air volume is set to "strongest" by the user inputting "strongest" through the operation of the operation panel (14).

[0116] In step ST32, the control unit (C) judges whether the humidification operation is set. If it is judged that the humidification operation is set (YES in step ST32), step ST33 is executed. If the humidification operation is not set (NO in step ST32), it is judged that the air purification operation is set, and step ST43 is executed. When the second mode is executed in step S43, step S32 is executed again.

[0117] In step ST33, the control unit (C) judges whether the humidification operation or the air purification operation is to be prioritized. This priority judgment operation is judged based on the relationship between the current humidity of the indoor space and the target humidity. This judgment operation will be described later.

[0118] In step ST34, the control section (C) executes the second mode, whereby the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are opened and the air cleaning operation is performed.

[0119] In step ST35, the control unit (C) determines whether the current humidity of the indoor space is within a predetermined range. Step ST35 is the same process as step ST13 in the above embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. If it is determined that the current humidity of the indoor space is within the predetermined range (YES in step ST35), step ST35 is executed again. If it is determined that the current humidity of the indoor space is not within the predetermined range (NO in step ST35), step ST37 is executed.

[0120] In step ST36, the control unit (C) judges whether the humidification operation is prioritized. If the current humidity of the indoor space is lower than the target humidity due to the pre-judgment operation in step ST33, the humidification operation is prioritized, and if the current humidity of the indoor space is equal to or higher than the target humidity, the air purification operation is prioritized. If it is judged that the humidification operation is prioritized (YES in step ST36), step ST37 is executed. If it is judged that the humidification operation is not prioritized (NO in step ST36), it is judged that the air purification operation is prioritized, and step ST34 is executed.

[0121] The flow from step ST37 onwards is the same as that from step ST16 onwards, and therefore the description will be omitted. After the second mode is executed in step S42, the control unit (C) may repeatedly execute step ST35 again after step ST42 until the operation of the air purifier (10) stops.

[0122] Next, a description will be given of the pre-determination operation in step ST33. The pre-determination operation is a pre-processing for determining whether the humidification operation or the air purification operation is to be prioritized in step ST36.

[0123] In step ST51, the control section (C) executes the second mode, whereby the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are opened.

[0124] In step ST52, the control unit (C) determines whether the current humidity of the indoor space is within a predetermined range. Step ST52 is the same process as step ST13 in the above embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. If it is determined that the current humidity of the indoor space is within the predetermined range (YES in step ST52), step ST54 is executed. If it is determined that the current humidity of the indoor space is not within the predetermined range (NO in step ST52), step ST53 is executed.

[0125] In step ST53, the control section (C) rotates the humidification filter (54).

[0126] In step ST54, the control section (C) stops the humidification filter (54).

[0127] In step ST55, the control unit (C) judges whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of step ST53 or step ST54. If it is judged that the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step ST55), step ST36 is executed. If it is judged that the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in step ST55), step ST52 is executed again.

[0128] (6) Other embodiments The above embodiment may be configured as follows.

[0129] In the above embodiment and modified example, the control unit (C) may switch to the second mode when the rotation of the humidifying filter (54) stops in the first mode. In the first mode, the rotation of the humidifying filter (54) stops when the humidity in the room space reaches the target humidity as described above, and also when, for example, the water level in the water tray (53) falls below a predetermined water level, the humidifying operation stops for some reason, an abnormality is detected in the detection value of the humidity sensor (45), the prefilter (21, 22), the HEPA filter (23, 24), or the deodorizing filter (25, 26) is not properly fixed to the casing (11), or the opening / closing cover of the casing (11) is detached.

[0130] When the rotation of the humidifying filter (54) stops, the supply of water to the humidifying filter (54) stops, and the humidifying filter (54) begins to dry out. When the humidifying filter (54) becomes "damp," there is a risk of an unpleasant odor being emitted from the humidifying filter (54). Therefore, if the first mode is continued, air containing the unpleasant odor will be blown out into the room. In contrast, by switching to the second mode when the humidifying filter (54) stops, the air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) bypasses the humidifying filter (54) and flows through the first outlet (12a) and the second outlet (12b), thereby preventing the unpleasant odor caused by the "damp" humidifying filter from being released into the room.

[0131] In the humidification space (51), the location of the tank (52) is not particularly limited as long as it does not overlap the first passageway (51a) and the second passageway (51b) when viewed from above.

[0132] The tank (52) or the water tray (53) may partially overlap the first passage (51a) or the second passage (51b) when viewed from above the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b).

[0133] 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 and modifications may be appropriately combined or substituted as long as the functions of the subject of this disclosure are not impaired. The descriptions "first", "second", ... described 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]

[0134] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for air purifiers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 10. Air Purifier 11 Casing 12a,12b Air outlet 15,16,19 Intake port 20 Air Purifier Unit 30 Fan Unit 51a 1st passage (primary space) 51b 2nd passage (secondary space) 53 Water Tray 54 Humidification filter 55 Second damper 56 First damper A switching mechanism C control section P Air passage

Claims

1. A casing (11); an air passage (P) formed in the casing (11); a fan unit (30) that transports air in the air passage (P) from the suction openings (15, 16, 19) toward the air outlets (12a, 12b); an air purification unit (20) disposed in the air passage (P) for purifying air; a humidification filter (54) disposed in the air passage (P) and configured to humidify air passing through the air passage (P) by supplying water thereto; a switching mechanism (A) disposed in the air passage (P) for switching a flow path of air flowing to the humidification filter (54); A control unit (C) that controls the switching mechanism (A), The control unit (C) a first mode in which air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) is transported to pass through the humidifying filter (54); a second mode in which the air upstream of the humidifying filter (54) is transported to the air outlet (12a, 12b) bypassing the humidifying filter (54). Air purifier.

2. The air passage (P) has a first passage (51a) and a second passage (51b) separated by the humidification filter (54), The control unit (C) controls the switching mechanism (A) in the first mode so as to cause air upstream of the humidification filter (54) to flow into the first passage (51a) and to cause air in the first passage (51a) to flow into the second passage (51b) via the humidification filter (54).

2. The air purifier according to claim 1.

3. The control unit (C) controls the switching mechanism (A) in the second mode so as to cause the air in the air passage (P) to flow into the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) and to transport the air in the first passage (51a) and the air in the second passage (51b) to the air outlets (12a, 12b).

3. The air purifier according to claim 2.

4. The air outlets (12a, 12b) are a first outlet (12a) communicating with the first passage (51a); a second outlet (12b) communicating with the second passage (51b), The switching mechanism (A) is a first damper (56) that opens and closes the first passage (51a) so as to adjust the flow of air from the first passage (51a) toward the first outlet (12a); a second damper (55) which opens and closes the second passage (51b) so as to adjust the flow of air from the suction opening (15, 16, 19) toward the second passage (51b), The control unit (C) In the first mode, the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are closed; In the second mode, the first damper (56) and the second damper (55) are opened.

4. The air purifier according to claim 2 or 3.

5. a tank (52) for supplying water to the humidification filter (54), The tank (52) does not overlap with the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) when viewed from the direction of air flow in the air passage (P).

4. The air purifier according to claim 2 or 3.

6. the humidification system further comprises a water tray (53) that receives water from the tank (52) and stores water to be supplied to the humidification filter (54); The water tray (53) does not overlap the first passage (51a) and the second passage (51b) when viewed from the air flow direction of the air passage (P).

6. An air purifier according to claim 5.

7. The humidifying filter (54) is disposed in the air passage (P) such that a filter surface of the humidifying filter (54) is aligned along a side surface of the casing (11). The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The humidification filter (54) is configured to rotate to supply water. The control section (C) switches to the second mode when the rotation of the humidification filter (54) stops in the first mode. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. The humidification filter (54) is configured to rotate to supply water thereto. The control unit (C) Controlling the rotation of the humidification filter (54); When the first mode is selected, the second mode is executed from the start of rotation of the humidifying filter (54) until the humidifying filter (54) reaches a first state in which it contains water, and when the humidifying filter (54) reaches the first state, the mode is switched to the first mode. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The first state is a state in which a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of rotation of the humidification filter (54).

10. The air purifier according to claim 9.

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