Humidifier and light flux control member

Abstract

To provide a humidifier capable of sterilizing a region other than a humidification filter.SOLUTION: A humidifier of the present invention comprises: a housing; a tray that is housed in the housing, and stores water; a plate-shaped humidification filter arranged so that a part of the filter comes into contact with the water stored in the tray and is rotatable around a rotation axis; and an ultraviolet irradiation unit arranged in the housing so as to irradiate the humidification filter and the water stored in the tray with ultraviolet light.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a humidifying device and a light beam control member.

Background Art

[0002] As a method for preventing indoor drying, a method of using a humidifying device having a humidifying filter capable of containing moisture is known. Also known is an air purifier incorporating a humidifying function (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an air purifier having a housing, a deodorizing filter, a dust collecting filter, a humidifying unit, and an ultraviolet irradiation unit. The humidifying unit includes a rotatably configured humidifying filter, a holding frame for holding the humidifying filter, a tray for storing water for immersing the humidifying filter, and a supply tank for supplying water to the tray. Further, the ultraviolet irradiation unit has a light source unit including an ultraviolet LED and a cover.

[0004] In the air purifier of Patent Document 1, by rotating the humidifying filter immersed in the water in the tray, the water in the tray is allowed to soak into the humidifying filter. At the same time, while humidifying the room by blowing air against the humidifying filter by a fan, the humidifying filter is sterilized by irradiating ultraviolet rays on the humidifying filter.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In an air purifier or the like described in Patent Document 1, various bacteria and molds are generated in the area where water comes into contact. However, in the air purifier described in Patent Document 1, although the humidifying filter is irradiated with ultraviolet light, in other areas where water comes into contact, since ultraviolet light is not irradiated, there is a problem that various bacteria and molds are generated in areas other than the humidifying filter.

[0007] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a humidifying device capable of sterilizing areas other than the humidifying filter and a light beam control member used in the humidifying device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The present invention relates to the following humidifying device and a light beam control member used therein. [1] A humidifying device having a housing, a tray housed in the housing for storing water, a plate-shaped humidifying filter disposed so as to be in contact with a part of the water stored in the tray and rotatable about a rotation axis, and an ultraviolet irradiation unit disposed in the housing for irradiating ultraviolet light onto the humidifying filter and the water stored in the tray. [2] The maximum illuminance of the ultraviolet light irradiated onto the water stored in the tray is 50 μW / cm 2 The humidifying device according to [1]. [3] The ultraviolet irradiation unit has a first light source that emits ultraviolet light, and a first light beam control member for controlling the ultraviolet light emitted from the first light source to travel toward the humidifying filter and the water stored in the tray. The humidifying device according to [1] or [2]. [4] The ultraviolet irradiation unit has a second light source for irradiating ultraviolet light, a second light beam control member for controlling the ultraviolet light emitted from the second light source to travel toward the humidifying filter, a third light source for irradiating ultraviolet light, and a third light beam control member for controlling the ultraviolet light emitted from the third light source to travel toward the water stored in the tray. The humidifying device according to [1] or [2]. [5] The humidifying device according to [4], wherein the second light beam control member controls the ultraviolet light emitted from the second light source so that a part of the outer peripheral portion of the humidifying filter is irradiated with the ultraviolet light. [6] The humidifying device according to [4] or [5], wherein the third light beam control member controls the ultraviolet light emitted from the third light source so that the ultraviolet light orthogonal to the water surface in the tray is included. [7] The humidifying device according to any one of [1] to [6], further comprising an ultraviolet light reflecting portion for reflecting the ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light irradiating portion toward the humidifying filter or the tray. [8] A light beam control member used in the humidifying device according to any one of [1] to [7].

Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a humidifying device capable of sterilizing areas other than the humidifying filter and a light beam control member used in the humidifying device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0012] [Embodiment 1] (Configuration of the Humidifying Device) Fig. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of a humidifying device 100 according to Embodiment 1. Fig. 2A is a plan view of a tray 120 for explaining the arrangement of the ultraviolet irradiation part 140, a humidifying filter 130, and the ultraviolet irradiation part 140, Fig. 2B is a rear view, and Fig. 2C is a right side view.

[0013] As shown in Fig. 1, the humidifying device 100 includes a housing 110, a tray 120, a humidifying filter 130, and an ultraviolet irradiation part 140. In addition to the above configuration, the humidifying device 100 may further include a tank 150 for storing water supplied to the tray 120 and a fan unit 160 for volatilizing the water soaked in the humidifying filter 130. In the present embodiment, the humidifying device 100 further includes the tank 150 and the fan unit 160.

[0014] The housing 110 is formed in a substantially box shape and protects the interior. Inside the housing 110, a tray 120, a humidifying filter 130, an ultraviolet irradiation unit 140, a tank 150, and a fan unit 160 are accommodated. In this embodiment, a part of the outer surfaces of the tray 120 and the tank 150 also functions as a part of the housing 110. The material of the housing 110 is usually a resin such as polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS resin).

[0015] The tray 120 holds the humidifying filter 130 and stores water for partially immersing the humidifying filter 130. The configuration of the tray 120 is not particularly limited as long as the above functions can be exhibited. In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A to 2C, the tray 120 is a container with an open top. The tray 120 has a tray body 121 and a support portion 122. The material of the tray 120 is usually a resin such as polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS resin).

[0016] The tray body 121 stores water for partially immersing the humidifying filter 130 disposed in the filter frame 131. In this embodiment, the tray body 121 is configured such that when filled with water, approximately one-fourth of the height of the humidifying filter 130 is immersed. Although not particularly shown, a pair of first gears for assisting the rotation of the humidifying filter 130 (filter frame 131) are disposed on the bottom surface of the tray body 121.

[0017] The support part 122 rotatably holds the humidifying filter 130 disposed on the filter frame 131. The support part 122 is disposed on the side surface of the tray main body 121. In the present embodiment, the support part 122 has a pair of support part main bodies 123 and a support rod 124. By disposing the humidifying filter 130 disposed on the filter frame 131 on the support rod 124, the humidifying filter 130 is held. The humidifying filter 130 is connected to a filter motor (not shown) via the support rod 124. When the filter motor operates, the humidifying filter 130 rotates at a predetermined rotational speed via the support rod 124 and the filter frame 131.

[0018] The humidifying filter 130 is a plate-like member that is disposed so that a part thereof contacts the water stored in the tray 120 and is rotatable about the rotation axis. The humidifying filter 130 temporarily holds the water stored in the tray 120 and allows air to pass through. The humidifying filter 130 is preferably formed of a highly water-absorbent material such as non-woven fabric. Further, from the viewpoint of increasing the contact area with air, the humidifying filter 130 is preferably formed by being folded in a bellows shape. The humidifying filter 130 is fixed to the filter frame 131.

[0019] The filter frame 131 holds the humidifying filter 130. The outer shape of the filter frame 131 is substantially cylindrical, and the humidifying filter 130 is held therein in an exposed state. Although not particularly shown, a second gear that meshes with a pair of first gears is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the filter frame 131. The material of the filter frame 131 is usually a resin such as polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS resin).

[0020] The ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 irradiates ultraviolet rays to the humidifying filter 130 and the water stored in the tray 120. The ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 is disposed in the housing 110. The arrangement of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 on the housing 110 is not particularly limited as long as the above functions can be exhibited.

[0021] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2B and C, in this embodiment, when the tray 120 and the humidifying filter 130 are housed in the housing 110, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 is disposed between the humidifying filter 130 and the fan unit 160. Specifically, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 is arranged to irradiate a part of the outer peripheral portion with ultraviolet rays. A part of the outer peripheral portion of the humidifying filter 130 irradiated with ultraviolet rays includes a portion that is immersed in the water stored in the tray 120 when the humidifying filter 130 rotates. The region of the humidifying filter 130 irradiated with ultraviolet rays may be larger or smaller than the portion immersed in the water stored in the tray 120. Also, in this embodiment, when viewed from the front, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 is disposed at a position corresponding to approximately half the height of the humidifying filter 130 in the height direction. Further, as shown in FIGS. 2A and B, in the state where the tray 120 and the humidifying filter 130 are housed in the housing 110, when viewed from the front, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 is disposed in a region corresponding to approximately one-fourth of the outer region of the humidifying filter 130. Thus, since the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 is disposed at a position corresponding to the region in contact with the water in the tank 150 as the humidifying filter 130 rotates, the humidifying filter 130 can be effectively sterilized.

[0022] The configuration of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 is not particularly limited as long as the above functions can be exhibited. In this embodiment, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 includes a first light source 141 and a first light beam control member 142.

[0023] The first light source 141 emits ultraviolet rays. The first light source 141 may be composed of one light source or a plurality of light sources. In the present embodiment, the first light source 141 is composed of one light source. The type of the light source is not particularly limited as long as it can emit ultraviolet rays. Examples of the light source include a light emitting diode (LED), a mercury lamp, a metal halide lamp, a xenon lamp, and a laser diode (LD). The wavelength of the ultraviolet rays emitted by the first light source 141 (light source) is not particularly limited. From the viewpoint of effectively sterilizing, the wavelength of the ultraviolet rays emitted by the first light source 141 is preferably 200 nm or more and 350 nm or less, and more preferably 200 nm or more and 280 nm or less. That is, the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first light source 141 are preferably ultraviolet C waves (UVC). Examples of commercially available light sources include NCSU334A (Nichia Chemical Industries, Ltd.), which is an ultraviolet light emitting diode with a peak wavelength of 280 nm. Other examples of ultraviolet light emitting diodes with a peak wavelength of 280 nm include KLARAN (Asahi Kasei Corporation) and ZEU110BEAE (Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.). The illuminance of the ultraviolet rays irradiated on the humidifying filter 130 and the water stored in the tank 150 is preferably in the range of 1 to 50 μW / cm 2 within the range. If the maximum illuminance of the ultraviolet rays is within the above range, the generation of black mold can be suppressed, and when the housing 110, the tray 120, and the tank 150 are made of resin, deterioration of the area irradiated with the ultraviolet rays can be suppressed significantly.

[0024] FIG. 3A is a plan view of the first light beam control member 142, FIG. 3B is a bottom view, FIG. 3C is a front view, FIG. 3D is a rear view, and FIG. 3E is a right side view. In the description of the first light beam control member 142, when the first light beam control member 142 is viewed in plan, the direction along the long axis is defined as the first direction D1, the direction along the short axis is defined as the second direction D2, and the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 is defined as the third direction D3.

[0025] The first light beam control member 142 controls the ultraviolet light emitted from the first light source 141 to be directed toward the humidifying filter 130 and the water stored in the tray 120. In the present embodiment, the first light beam control member 142 is integrally formed. The material of the first light beam control member 142 is preferably a light-transmissive resin or a glass composition. Examples of the light-transmissive resin include polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), and epoxy resin (EP).

[0026] As shown in FIGS. 3A to 3E, the first light beam control member 142 has a first incident surface 171, a first reflection surface 172, a first exit surface 173, a second reflection surface 174, and a second exit surface 175. The first light beam control member 142 may have a first flange 176 from the viewpoint of facilitating handling. In the present embodiment, the first light beam control member 142 further has a first flange 176. Although not particularly shown, the first light beam control member 142 may have legs for attaching to the housing 110.

[0027] The first light beam control member 142 condenses and irradiates a part of the ultraviolet light from the first light source 141 toward the humidifying filter 130 by the first incident surface 171, the first reflection surface 172, and the first exit surface 173, and deflects and irradiates a part of the ultraviolet light from the first light source 141 toward the water stored in the tray 120 by the first incident surface 171, the second reflection surface 174, and the second exit surface 175. Thus, the first light beam control member 142 in the present embodiment divides the ultraviolet light from one first light source 141 for the irradiated surfaces existing in different directions when viewed from the first light source 141, and at least a part thereof deflects the irradiation direction using reflection and irradiates the irradiated surface. At this time, the first light beam control member 142 controls so that the ultraviolet light orthogonal to the humidifying filter 130 is included, and also controls so that the ultraviolet light orthogonal to the water surface of the water stored in the tray 120 is included. The central ray of the ultraviolet light (light beam) directed toward the water surface of the water stored in the tray 120 is arranged so that the incident angle with respect to the water surface is smaller than the light rays propagating along the periphery of the light beam.

[0028] The first light beam control member 142 is arranged such that the first emission surface 173 and the second emission surface 175 face the humidification filter 130, and the first incident surface 171 faces the fan unit 160. Further, the first light beam control member 142 is arranged such that the second emission surface 175 is closer to the tray body 121 than the first emission surface 173.

[0029] The first incident surface 171 is an optical surface that allows the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first light source 141 to enter the interior of the first light beam control member 142. The first incident surface 171 is the inner surface of a first recess 178 formed in the first bottom surface (the surface on the side of the first light source 141) 177 of the first light beam control member 142. The first incident surface 171 has a first incident portion 171a and a second incident portion 171b. The first incident portion 171a is arranged on the side of the first emission surface 173 and the first reflection surface 172, and the second incident portion 171b is arranged on the side of the second emission surface 175 and the second reflection surface 174.

[0030] The shapes of the first incident portion 171a and the second incident portion 171b are not particularly limited as long as the above functions can be exhibited. The first incident portion 171a and the second incident portion 171b may be constituted by one surface or a plurality of surfaces. In the present embodiment, the first incident portion 171a and the second incident portion 171b are each constituted by one surface. The shapes of the first incident portion 171a and the second incident portion 171b may be a curved surface without an edge or a surface with an edge. In the present embodiment, the shapes of the first incident portion 171a and the second incident portion 171b are each a curved surface without an edge.

[0031] The shape of the first incident portion 171a is formed to be convex toward the first emission surface 173 side in a cross section including a first central axis CA1 (a straight line along the third direction D3) and a straight line along the second direction D2. Here, the first central axis CA1 means a straight line passing through the midpoints of the major axis and the minor axis of the first incident surface 171 when the first light beam control member 142 is viewed from the bottom surface and along the third direction D3.

[0032] The shape of the second incident portion 171b is formed to be convex toward the first emission surface 173 in a cross section including the first central axis CA1 (a straight line along the third direction D3) and a straight line along the second direction D2.

[0033] The first reflection surface 172 reflects a part of the ultraviolet rays incident on the first light beam control member 142 toward the first emission surface 173. In the present embodiment, the first reflection surface 172 is formed of two planes. The shape of the first reflection surface 172 is formed to be convex toward the second emission surface 175 in a cross section including a straight line along the first direction D1 and a straight line along the second direction D2.

[0034] The first emission surface 173 emits a part of the ultraviolet rays incident on the first light beam control member 142 to the outside. More specifically, the first emission surface 173 emits the ultraviolet rays that are incident on the first incident surface 171 and reflected by the first reflection surface 172, and the ultraviolet rays that are incident on the first incident surface 171 and reach directly, toward the humidifying filter 130. The first emission surface 173 is formed to be convex on the side opposite to the first bottom surface 177 in a cross section including the first central axis CA1 (a straight line along the third direction D3) and a straight line along the second direction D2.

[0035] The second reflection surface 174 is disposed on the side opposite to the first light source 141 with the first incident surface 171 (the second incident portion 171b) interposed therebetween. Further, the second reflection surface 174 reflects a part of the ultraviolet rays incident from the first incident surface 171 toward the second direction D2 perpendicular to the first central axis CA1 (a straight line along the third direction D3). The second reflection surface 174 is formed to be convex on the side opposite to the first bottom surface 177 in a cross section including the first central axis CA1 and a straight line along the third direction D3.

[0036] The second exit surface 175 emits the ultraviolet rays reflected by the second reflection surface 174 to the outside. More specifically, the second exit surface 175 emits, toward the water stored in the tray 120, the ultraviolet rays that entered through the first entrance surface 171 and were reflected by the second reflection surface 174, and the ultraviolet rays that entered through the first entrance surface 171 and reached directly. In the present embodiment, the ultraviolet rays are emitted from the second exit surface 175 within a range of ±25 to 30° when the direction orthogonal to the water surface is defined as 0°. Thus, in the present embodiment, since the ultraviolet rays are emitted so as to be substantially perpendicular to the water surface of the water stored in the tray 120, most of the emitted ultraviolet rays reach the bottom surface of the tray 120. Therefore, the sterilization efficiency can be enhanced as compared with the case where the water surface is irradiated with ultraviolet rays obliquely. The second exit surface 175 is formed to be convex when viewed from the first central axis CA1 in a cross section including a straight line along the third direction D3 and a straight line along the first direction D1.

[0037] The first flange 176 facilitates the handling of the first light beam control member 142 and prevents the first light beam control member 142 from detaching from the housing 110. When viewed in plan, the first flange 176 is disposed at the outer peripheral portion of the first light beam control member 142.

[0038] The tank 150 temporarily stores water for supplying the tray 120. As shown in FIG. 1, a window 151 for checking the water level in the tank 150 is disposed at the front of the tank 150, and a water supply tap (not shown) is disposed at the bottom of the tank 150. The tank 150 is disposed in a region where the humidifying filter 130 of the tray body 121 is not disposed. The water supply tap is configured such that the water stored in the tray body 121 is always full. The material of the tank 150 is usually a resin such as polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS resin).

[0039] The fan unit 160 volatilizes the water soaked in the humidification filter 130 by sending air toward the humidification filter 130. The configuration of the fan unit 160 is not particularly limited as long as it can exhibit the above functions. In the present embodiment, the fan unit 160 includes a fan 161 and a fan motor 162 for rotating the fan 161. The fan 161 and the fan motor 162 are connected. The fan 161 is disposed to face the humidification filter 130 housed in the housing 110.

[0040] (Irradiation area) Here, the irradiation area by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 of the humidifying device 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C and FIGS. 5A to 5C. In FIGS. 4A to 4C and FIGS. 5A to 5C, the irradiation area of ultraviolet rays is indicated by diagonal hatching and dotted lines. FIG. 4A is a plan view of a tray, a humidification filter, and an ultraviolet irradiation unit for explaining the irradiation area, FIG. 4B is a front view, and FIG. 4C is a right side view. FIG. 5A is a plan view of a tray, a humidification filter, and an ultraviolet irradiation unit for explaining another irradiation area, FIG. 5B is a front view, and FIG. 5C is a right side view.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first light source 141 and incident on the first light beam control member 142, some of the ultraviolet rays are internally reflected by the first reflection surface 172 and then travel from the first emission surface 173 toward the humidification filter 130. On the other hand, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first light source 141 and incident on the first light beam control member 142, some other ultraviolet rays are internally reflected by the second reflection surface 174 and then travel from the second emission surface 175 toward the water stored in the tray 120. Note that, as shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, the first light beam control member 142 may be arranged such that a straight line along the second direction D2 is inclined. Thereby, the amount of ultraviolet rays irradiated to the tray 120 can be reduced.

[0042] (Operation of the humidifying device) Next, the operation of the humidifying device 100 will be described. During operation, the humidifying filter 130 of the humidifying device 100 is constantly rotating. The humidifying device 100 drives the fan unit 160 while rotating the humidifying filter 130 fixed to the filter frame 131, thereby volatilizing the water contained in the humidifying filter 130. The degree of humidification is appropriately set according to the rotation speed of the humidifying filter 130 and the rotation speed of the fan 161. On the other hand, by driving the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140, the humidifying filter 130 and the water stored in the tray are irradiated with ultraviolet rays for sterilization. At this time, since the humidifying filter 130 is rotating, the outer peripheral portion of the humidifying filter 130 is continuously sterilized. In this way, in the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment, the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first light source 141 are irradiated onto the humidifying filter 130 and the water stored in the tray 120, so that areas other than the humidifying filter 130 can also be sterilized.

[0043] (Effect) As described above, the humidifying device 100 according to the present embodiment irradiates ultraviolet rays onto the humidifying filter 130 and the water stored in the tray 120, so that areas other than the humidifying filter 130 can also be sterilized.

[0044] [Embodiment 2] Next, the humidifying device according to Embodiment 2 will be described. The humidifying device according to the present embodiment is different from the humidifying device 100 according to Embodiment 1 in that it has an ultraviolet reflection unit 280. Therefore, for the same configurations as in Embodiment 1, the same reference numerals are given and their descriptions are omitted.

[0045] (Configuration of the humidifying device) FIG. 6A is a plan view of the tray 120, the humidifying filter 130, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140, and the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 for explaining the arrangement of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 and the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 in Embodiment 2, FIG. 6B is a front view, and FIG. 6C is a right side view. FIG. 7A is a plan view of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 and the ultraviolet reflection unit 280, and FIG. 7B is a front view.

[0046] The humidifying device of the present embodiment includes a housing 110, a tray 120, a humidifying filter 130, an ultraviolet irradiation unit 140, and an ultraviolet reflection unit 280. In addition to the above configuration, the humidifying device may further include a tank 150 for storing water supplied to the tray 120 and a fan unit 160 for volatilizing the water soaked into the humidifying filter 130. In the present embodiment, the humidifying device further includes the tank 150 and the fan unit 160.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C and FIGS. 7A and 7B, the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 reflects the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 toward the humidifying filter 130 or the tray 120. The configuration of the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 is not particularly limited as long as the above function can be exhibited. The ultraviolet reflection unit 280 may be made of a material that reflects ultraviolet rays, such as aluminum, or a film that reflects ultraviolet rays may be formed on the surface of the base material. Examples of the film that reflects ultraviolet rays include a silicone resin film. In the present embodiment, the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 is formed of aluminum.

[0048] In the present embodiment, the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 reflects the ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 toward the humidifying filter 130. The configuration of the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 is not particularly limited as long as the above function can be exhibited. In the present embodiment, the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 is formed in a tray shape with a part of the upper surface and the side surface open. The inner surface of the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 where the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 is disposed is a flat surface, and the surfaces disposed around the flat surface are curved surfaces convex outward.

[0049] (Irradiation area) Here, the irradiation area by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 of the humidifying device will be described with reference to FIGS. 6A to 6C. In FIGS. 6A to 6C, the irradiation area of the ultraviolet rays is indicated by diagonal hatching and dotted lines. As shown in FIGS. 6A to 6C, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first light source 141 and incident on the first light beam control member 142, some of the ultraviolet rays are internally reflected by the first reflection surface 172 and then travel from the first emission surface 173 toward the humidifying filter 130. On the other hand, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first light source 141 and incident on the first light beam control member 142, some other ultraviolet rays are internally reflected by the second reflection surface 174 and then travel from the second emission surface 175 toward the water stored in the tray 120. At this time, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the first light source 141, some of the ultraviolet rays are reflected by the ultraviolet reflection unit 280 and travel toward the humidifying filter 130.

[0050] (Operation of the humidifying device) The operation of the humidifying device is the same as that of the humidifying device 100 according to the embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0051] (Effect) As described above, the humidifying device according to the present embodiment has the same effects as the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment. Further, since the humidifying device according to the present embodiment has the ultraviolet reflection unit 280, the illuminance on the target irradiation area of the humidifying filter 130 can be increased, and the sterilization effect can be enhanced more than that of the humidifying device 100 of the first embodiment.

[0052] [Embodiment 3] Next, the humidifying device according to the third embodiment will be described. The configuration of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 of the humidifying device according to the present embodiment is different from that of the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, for the same configurations as those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof is omitted.

[0053] (Configuration of the humidifying device) FIG. 8A is a plan view of a tray 120, a humidifying filter 130, and an ultraviolet irradiation unit 340 for explaining the arrangement of the ultraviolet irradiation unit 340. FIG. 8B is a front view, and FIG. 8C is a right side view. In FIGS. 8A to 8C, a first direction D1, a second direction D2, and a third direction D3 used in the description of the third light beam control member 344 are shown.

[0054] The humidifying device of the present embodiment includes a housing 110, a tray 120, a humidifying filter 130, and an ultraviolet irradiation unit 340. In addition to the above configuration, the humidifying device may further include a tank 150 for storing water supplied to the tray 120 and a fan unit 160 for discharging the water soaked into the humidifying filter 130 to the outside of the humidifying device. In the present embodiment, the humidifying device further includes a tank 150 and a fan unit 160.

[0055] As shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C, in the present embodiment, the ultraviolet irradiation unit 340 includes a second light source 341, a second light beam control member 342, a third light source 343, and a third light beam control member 344.

[0056] Both the second light source 341 and the third light source 343 emit ultraviolet rays. The second light source 341 and the third light source 343 may be formed of one light source or a plurality of light sources. In the present embodiment, the second light source 341 and the third light source 343 are each one light source. The second light source 341 and the third light source 343 may be the same light source or different light sources. In the present embodiment, the second light source 341 and the third light source 343 are the same light source.

[0057] FIG. 9A is a plan view of the second light beam control member 342, FIG. 9B is a bottom view, FIG. 9C is a right side view, and FIG. 9D is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown in FIG. 9A.

[0058] The second light beam control member 342 controls the ultraviolet light emitted from the second light source 341 to travel toward the humidification filter 130. The configuration of the second light beam control member 342 is not particularly limited as long as it can exhibit the above functions. In the present embodiment, the second light beam control member 342 has a second incident surface 271, a third reflection surface 272, a third exit surface 273, and a second flange 276. The second incident surface 271, the third reflection surface 272, the third exit surface 273, and the second flange 276 all have a rotationally symmetric shape centered on the second central axis CA2.

[0059] The second light beam control member 342 condenses and irradiates a part of the ultraviolet light from the second light source 341 toward the humidification filter 130 by the second incident surface 271 and the third reflection surface 272. The second light beam control member 342 is arranged such that the third reflection surface 272 and the third exit surface 273 face the fan unit 160. Also, the second light beam control member 342 is arranged such that the second incident surface 271 faces the fan unit 160.

[0060] The second incident surface 271 receives the light emitted from the second light source 341. The shape of the second incident surface 271 is not particularly limited as long as it can exhibit the above functions. In the present embodiment, the second incident surface 271 is the inner surface of the second recess 278 formed on the back side, and has a third incident portion 271a and a fourth incident portion 271b.

[0061] The third incident portion 271a receives the light with a small emission angle emitted from the second light source 341. In the cross section including the central axis CA, the third incident portion 271a is formed such that its central portion smoothly protrudes toward the bottom surface.

[0062] The fourth incident portion 271b receives the light with a large emission angle emitted from the second light source 341. The fourth incident portion 271b connects the third incident portion 271a and the third reflection surface 272. The fourth incident portion 271b is arranged parallel to the second central axis CA2. That is, in the present embodiment, in the cross section, the fourth incident portion 271b is formed in a linear shape.

[0063] The third reflecting surface 272 mainly reflects the light incident from the second incident surface 271 toward the third exit surface 273. In the present embodiment, the distance between the third reflecting surface 272 and the second central axis CA2 gradually increases from the back side toward the front side. In a cross section including the second central axis CA2, the third reflecting surface 272 has a curved shape convex outward (the side away from the central axis CA).

[0064] The third exit surface 273 emits the light incident from the second incident surface 271. The third exit surface 273 is disposed on the front side opposite to the second incident surface 271. The third exit surface 273 may be a plane or a curved surface. In the present embodiment, the third exit surface 273 is a circular plane.

[0065] The second flange 276 facilitates the handling of the second light beam control member 342 and prevents the second light beam control member 342 from detaching from the housing 110. When viewed in plan, the second flange 276 is disposed on the outer peripheral portion of the second light beam control member 342.

[0066] FIG. 10A is a plan view of the third light beam control member 344, FIG. 10B is a bottom view, FIG. 10C is a front view, FIG. 10D is a right side view, FIG. 10E is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown in FIG. 10A, and FIG. 10F is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B shown in FIG. 10A. In the description of the third light beam control member 344, when the third light beam control member 344 is viewed in plan, the direction along the major axis is defined as the first direction D1, the direction along the minor axis is defined as the second direction D2, and the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 is defined as the third direction D3.

[0067] The third light beam control member 344 deflects and irradiates part of the ultraviolet rays emitted from the third light source 343 toward the water stored in the tray 120. The third light beam control member 344 preferably controls the ultraviolet rays emitted from the third light source 343 so that the ultraviolet rays orthogonal to the water surface in the tray 120 are included. The central ray of the ultraviolet rays (light beam) directed toward the water surface of the water stored in the tray 120 is arranged to be orthogonal to the water surface rather than the rays propagating along the periphery of the light beam. The configuration of the third light beam control member 344 is not particularly limited as long as it can exhibit the above functions. As shown in FIGS. 10A to 10F, in the present embodiment, the third light beam control member 344 has a third incident surface 371, a fourth exit surface 373, and a third flange 376. The third incident surface 371 has a rotationally symmetric shape with the third central axis CA3 as the center of rotation.

[0068] The third light beam control member 344 condenses ultraviolet rays on the third incident surface 371, the fourth exit surface 373, and the water stored in the tray 120. The third light beam control member 344 is arranged such that the fourth exit surface 373 faces the water surface of the tray body 121.

[0069] The third incident surface 371 receives the ultraviolet rays emitted from the third light source 343. The shape of the third incident surface 371 is not particularly limited as long as it can exhibit the above functions. In the present embodiment, the third incident surface 371 is the inner surface of a third recess 378 formed in the third bottom surface 377, and has a fifth incident portion 371a and a sixth incident portion 371b. In the present embodiment, the shape of the third recess 378 as viewed from the bottom is a substantially elliptical shape that is long in the first direction D1.

[0070] The fifth incident portion 371a receives the light emitted from the third light source 343 with a small emission angle. In the cross section including the third central axis CA3, the fifth incident portion 371a is formed such that its central portion smoothly protrudes toward the side opposite to the bottom surface.

[0071] The sixth light incident portion 371b allows light with a large emission angle emitted from the third light source 343 to be incident thereon. The sixth light incident portion 371b connects the fifth light incident portion 371a and the bottom surface. The sixth light incident portion 371b is formed parallel to the third central axis CA3.

[0072] The fourth light emission surface 373 emits the light incident from the third light incident surface 371. The fourth light emission surface 373 is disposed on the side opposite to the third light incident surface 371. In the present embodiment, in the cross section including the third central axis CA3, the fourth light emission surface 373 is formed such that its central portion smoothly protrudes toward the side opposite to the bottom surface.

[0073] (Irradiation area) Here, the irradiation area by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 340 of the humidifying device will be described with reference to FIGS. 8A to 8C. In FIGS. 8A to 8C, the irradiation area of the ultraviolet rays is indicated by diagonal hatching and dotted lines. As shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the second light source 341, at least a part of the ultraviolet rays is controlled by the second light beam control member 342 to be directed toward the humidifying filter 130. Specifically, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the second light source 341, at least a part of the ultraviolet rays is incident on the second light incident surface 271, internally reflected by the third reflection surface 272, and then travels from the third light emission surface 273 toward the humidifying filter 130. Also, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the third light source 343, at least a part of the ultraviolet rays is controlled by the third light beam control member 344 to be directed toward the water stored in the tray 120. More specifically, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the third light source 343, at least a part of the ultraviolet rays is incident on the third light incident surface 371 and travels from the fourth light emission surface 373 toward the water stored in the tray 120.

[0074] (Operation of the humidifying device) The operation of the humidifying device is the same as that of the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0075] (Effect) As described above, the humidifying device according to the present embodiment has the same effects as the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0076] [Embodiment 4] Next, the humidifying device according to Embodiment 4 will be described. The humidifying device according to the present embodiment is different from the humidifying device according to Embodiment 3 in that it has an ultraviolet reflection part 480. Therefore, for the same configuration as in Embodiment 3, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof is omitted.

[0077] (Configuration of Humidifying Device) FIG. 11A is a plan view of the tray 120, the ultraviolet irradiation part 340, and the ultraviolet reflection part 480 for explaining the arrangement of the tray 120, the humidifying filter 130, the ultraviolet irradiation part 340, and the ultraviolet reflection part 480. FIG. 11B is a front view, and FIG. 11C is a right side view. FIG. 12A is a plan view of the ultraviolet irradiation part 340 and the ultraviolet reflection part 480, and FIG. 12B is a front view.

[0078] The humidifying device of the present embodiment includes a housing 110, a tray 120, a humidifying filter 130, an ultraviolet irradiation part 340, and an ultraviolet reflection part 480. In addition to the above configuration, the humidifying device may further include a tank 150 for volatilizing the water supplied to the tray 120, and a fan unit 160 for discharging the water soaked into the humidifying filter 130 to the outside of the humidifying device. In the present embodiment, the humidifying device further includes a tank 150 and a fan unit 160.

[0079] As shown in FIGS. 11A to C and FIGS. 12A and B, the ultraviolet reflection part 480 reflects the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the ultraviolet irradiation part 340 toward the humidifying filter 130 or the tray 120. The configuration of the ultraviolet reflection part 480 is not particularly limited as long as the above function can be exhibited. The ultraviolet reflection part 480 may be made of a material that reflects ultraviolet rays such as aluminum, or a film that reflects ultraviolet rays may be formed on the surface of the base material. Examples of the film that reflects ultraviolet rays include a silicone resin film. In the present embodiment, the ultraviolet reflection part 480 is formed of aluminum.

[0080] In the present embodiment, the ultraviolet reflection unit 480 reflects the ultraviolet rays emitted from the ultraviolet irradiation unit 340 toward the humidifying filter 130. The configuration of the ultraviolet reflection unit 480 is not particularly limited as long as it can exhibit the above functions. As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, in the present embodiment, the ultraviolet reflection unit 480 is formed in a tray shape with a part of its upper surface and side surfaces open. The inner surface where the ultraviolet irradiation unit 140 of the ultraviolet reflection unit 480 is disposed is flat, and the surfaces disposed around the flat surface are convex curved surfaces on the outside.

[0081] (Irradiation area) Here, the irradiation area by the ultraviolet irradiation unit 340 of the humidifying device will be described with reference to FIGS. 11A to 11C. In FIGS. 11A to 11C, the irradiation area of the ultraviolet rays is indicated by diagonal hatching and dotted lines. As shown in FIGS. 11A to 11C, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the second light source 341, at least a part of the ultraviolet rays is controlled by the second light beam control member 342 toward the humidifying filter 130. Specifically, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the second light source 341, at least a part of the ultraviolet rays is incident on the second incident surface 271, internally reflected on the third reflection surface 272, and then travels from the third exit surface 273 toward the humidifying filter 130. Also, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the third light source 343, at least a part of the ultraviolet rays is controlled by the third light beam control member 344 toward the water stored in the tray 120. More specifically, among the ultraviolet rays emitted from the third light source 343, at least a part of the ultraviolet rays is incident on the third incident surface 371 and travels from the fourth exit surface 373 toward the water stored in the tray 120. At this time, among the ultraviolet rays that could not be completely controlled by the second light beam control member 342 and the third light beam control member 344, a part of the ultraviolet rays is reflected by the ultraviolet reflection unit 480 and travels toward the humidifying filter 130.

[0082] (Operation of the humidifying device) The operation of the humidifying device is the same as that of the humidifying device according to Embodiment 3, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0083] (Effect) As described above, the humidifying device according to the present embodiment has the same effects as the humidifying device according to Embodiment 3. Further, since the humidifying device according to the present embodiment has the ultraviolet reflection portion 480, the illuminance on the humidifying filter 130 can be increased, and the sterilization effect can be enhanced more than that of the humidifying device of Embodiment 3.

Industrial Applicability

[0084] The humidifying device according to the present invention can be applied to, for example, an air cleaner.

Explanation of Signs

[0085] 100 Humidifying device 110 Housing 120 Tray 121 Tray body 122 Support portion 123 Support portion body 124 Support rod 130 Humidifying filter 131 Filter frame 140, 340 Ultraviolet irradiation portion 141 First light source 142 First light beam control member 150 Tank 151 Window 160 Fan unit 161 Fan 162 Fan motor 171 First incident surface 171a First incident portion 171b Second incident portion 172 First reflection surface 173 First emission surface 174 Second reflection surface 175 Second emission surface 176 First flange 177 First bottom surface 178 First recess 271 Second incident surface 271a Third incident portion 271b Fourth incident portion 272 Third reflection surface 273 Third emission surface 276 Second flange 278 Second recess 280, 480 Ultraviolet reflection part 341 Second light source 342 Second light beam control member 343 Third light source 344 Third light beam control member 371 Third incident surface 371a Fifth incident part 371b Sixth incident part 372 Fourth reflection surface 373 Fourth exit surface 376 Third flange 377 Third bottom surface 378 Third recess

Claims

1. A housing and A tray housed in the housing for storing water; a plate-shaped humidifying filter arranged rotatably about a rotation axis so that a portion of the filter contacts the water stored in the tray; an ultraviolet ray irradiation unit disposed in the housing so as to irradiate the humidifying filter and the water stored in the tray with ultraviolet rays; A humidification device comprising:

2. The maximum illuminance of the ultraviolet light irradiated onto the water stored in the tray is 50 μW / cm ２ The humidification device according to claim 1 ,

3. The ultraviolet ray irradiation unit includes: A first light source that emits ultraviolet light; a first light flux control member for controlling the ultraviolet light emitted from the first light source so that the ultraviolet light travels toward the humidification filter and the water stored in the tray; having The humidification device according to claim 1.

4. The ultraviolet ray irradiation unit includes: a second light source for irradiating ultraviolet light; a second light flux control member for controlling the ultraviolet light emitted from the second light source so that the ultraviolet light travels toward the humidifying filter; a third light source for irradiating ultraviolet light; a third light flux control member for controlling the ultraviolet light emitted from the third light source so that the ultraviolet light travels toward the water stored in the tray; having The humidification device according to claim 1.

5. 5 . The humidifier according to claim 4 , wherein the second light flux controlling member controls the ultraviolet light emitted from the second light source such that the ultraviolet light is irradiated onto a part of an outer periphery of the humidifying filter.

6. The humidifier according to claim 4 , wherein the third light flux controlling member controls the ultraviolet light emitted from the third light source so that ultraviolet light perpendicular to a surface of the water in the tray is included.

7. The humidifier according to claim 1 , further comprising an ultraviolet ray reflecting section for reflecting the ultraviolet ray irradiated from the ultraviolet ray irradiating section toward the humidifying filter or the tray.

8. A light flux controlling member for use in the humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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