Discharge device

Abstract

To easily generate ions in different directions.SOLUTION: A discharge device (100) includes: a housing (110); a voltage generation unit (120) arranged in the housing (110); a first electrode (130a) protruding from the housing (110) in the first direction (D1), the first electrode receiving application of voltages from the voltage generation unit (120); and a second electrode (130b) protruding from a housing (120) in the second direction (D2), which is a direction different from the first direction (D1), the second voltage receiving application of voltages from the voltage generation unit (120).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] It has been known for some time that a discharge device can be used to generate plasma discharge in the air to purify the air (for example, see Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 describes a discharge unit that purifies the air by discharging air flowing through an air passage in an air purifier or air conditioner. In the discharge unit of Patent Document 1, a discharge device that generates a discharge between two electrodes and a power supply are housed in a case member to reduce the size of the discharge unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-119186 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the discharge unit of Patent Document 1, the electrodes are arranged in a specific direction relative to the case member, and discharge can only be generated in a specific direction relative to the case member. Also, if you want to generate ions in multiple separate air passages, it is necessary to arrange multiple discharge units.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a discharge device that can easily generate ions in different directions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The discharge device of the present invention comprises a housing, a voltage generating unit arranged within the housing, a first electrode protruding from the housing in a first direction and to which a voltage is applied from the voltage generating unit, and a second electrode protruding from the housing in a second direction different from the first direction and to which a voltage is applied from the voltage generating unit. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, ions can be generated in different directions in a simple manner. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a discharge device according to an embodiment of the present invention that generates ions from different electrodes in different air paths. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the discharge device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the discharge device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7A] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the discharge device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 8A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the assembly of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the assembly of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 8C] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the assembly of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 8D]FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the assembly of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 8E] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the assembly of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 8F] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the assembly of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 10A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 10B] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 10C] 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment attached to a first air path and a second air path. FIG. [Figure 11A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 11B] 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view showing first to fourth electrodes and a circuit board in the discharge device of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11C] 3 is a schematic side view showing the first to fourth electrodes and a circuit board in the discharge device of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 11D] FIG. 2 is a schematic bottom view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 12A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 12B] 2 is a schematic side view showing an electrode and a circuit board in the discharge device of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12C] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 12D] FIG. 2 is a schematic bottom view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 13A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 13B] 2 is a schematic diagram of an electrode in the discharge device of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 14A] 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a first electrode, a second electrode, and a circuit board in the discharge device of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 14B]2 is a schematic side view showing a first electrode, a second electrode, and a circuit board in the discharge device of the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 14C] FIG. 2 is a side view of the discharge device according to the embodiment. [Figure 14D] FIG. 2 is a top view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 14E] FIG. 2 is a side view of the discharge device according to the embodiment. [Figure 15A] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 15B] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 16A] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 16B] FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 16C] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 17A] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a discharge device according to an embodiment of the present invention that generates ions from different electrodes in different air paths. [Figure 17B] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a discharge device according to an embodiment of the present invention that generates ions from different electrodes in different air paths. [Figure 18A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a blower including a discharge device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 18B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a blower including a discharge device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 19A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a dryer equipped with a discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 19B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a dryer equipped with a discharge device of the present embodiment. [Figure 20] 1 is a schematic diagram of an air conditioner equipped with a discharge device of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a discharge device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] In this specification, in order to facilitate understanding of the invention, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis that are mutually orthogonal may be described. In this specification, for convenience, the direction in which the electrodes of the discharge device extend may be indicated as the Z-axis direction. In the drawings, in order to facilitate understanding, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system are appropriately described. In one example, the positive direction of the Z-axis indicates the upward direction, and the negative direction of the Z-axis indicates the downward direction. However, the up-down direction, the up-down direction, and the down-down direction are defined for convenience of explanation, and do not necessarily coincide with the vertical direction. In addition, the up-down direction is defined merely for convenience of explanation, and does not limit the orientation during use and assembly of the discharge device according to the present invention. Furthermore, in this specification, the "parallel direction" includes a substantially parallel direction, and the orthogonal direction includes a substantially orthogonal direction. In this specification, the Z direction may be described as the first reference direction, the Y direction may be described as the second reference direction, and the X direction may be described as the third reference direction.

[0011] First, a discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1A. Fig. 1A is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0012] As shown in FIG 1A, the discharge device 100 includes a housing 110, a voltage generating unit 120, a first electrode 130a, and a second electrode 130b. The housing 110 has an internal space. The housing 110 houses the voltage generating unit 120. The housing 110 houses at least a portion of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. Typically, the housing 110 is formed from an insulating material.

[0013] Here, the outer shape of the housing 110 is a substantially cubic shape. In the outer shape of the housing 110, the length along the X direction, the length along the Y direction, and the length along the Z direction are substantially equal to each other.

[0014] The voltage generating unit 120 is disposed within the housing 110. The voltage generating unit 120 is electrically connected to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. The voltage generating unit 120 generates a voltage to be applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. The voltage generating unit 120 may generate a voltage higher than an input voltage.

[0015] The first electrode 130a is a conductive member. Here, the first electrode 130a is rod-shaped, and the thickness of the first electrode 130a is constant. The first electrode 130a protrudes from the housing 110 in a first direction D1. For example, the first electrode 130a is fixed to the housing 110, and protrudes from the surface of the housing 110 in the first direction D1. The first electrode 130a extends in the -Z direction from the surface of the housing 110 on the -Z direction side.

[0016] For example, the first electrode 130a penetrates the surface of the housing 110. The first electrode 130a protrudes from a hole provided in the surface of the housing 110. The first electrode 130a may be press-fitted into the hole in the housing 110.

[0017] The first electrode 130a may be held by a holding member inside the housing 110. For example, the first electrode 130a may be held by a member that electrically connects the first electrode 130a and the voltage generating unit 120. Alternatively, the first electrode 130a may be held by an insulating member filled inside the housing 110.

[0018] The first electrode 130a is electrically connected to the voltage generating unit 120. A voltage generated by the voltage generating unit 120 is applied to the first electrode 130a. Therefore, ions can be generated at the first electrode 130a outside the housing 110.

[0019] The second electrode 130b is a conductive member. Here, the second electrode 130b is rod-shaped, and the thickness of the second electrode 130b is constant. The second electrode 130b protrudes from the housing 110 in the second direction D2. The second electrode 130b is fixed to the housing 110, and protrudes from the surface of the housing 110 in the second direction D2. The second electrode 130b extends in the +Z direction from the surface of the housing 110 on the +Z direction side.

[0020] For example, the second electrode 130b penetrates the surface of the housing 110. The second electrode 130b protrudes from a hole provided in the surface of the housing 110. The second electrode 130b may be press-fitted into the hole in the housing 110.

[0021] The second electrode 130b may be held by a holding member inside the housing 110. For example, the second electrode 130b may be held by a member that electrically connects the second electrode 130b and the voltage generating unit 120. Alternatively, the second electrode 130b may be held by an insulating member filled inside the housing 110.

[0022] The second electrode 130b is electrically connected to the voltage generating unit 120. A voltage generated by the voltage generating unit 120 is applied to the second electrode 130b. Therefore, ions can be generated at the second electrode 130b outside the housing 110.

[0023] In this specification, the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b may be collectively referred to as the electrodes 130.

[0024] Only one of a voltage of one polarity (e.g., a negative voltage) and a voltage of the other polarity (e.g., a positive voltage) may be applied to the first electrode 130a from the voltage generating unit 120. Similarly, only one of a voltage of one polarity (e.g., a negative voltage) and a voltage of the other polarity (e.g., a positive voltage) may be applied to the second electrode 130b from the voltage generating unit 120.

[0025] For example, when the discharge device 100 is placed in the air, negative ions can be generated by applying a negative voltage to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. In one example, the negative ions are oxygen ions (O 2 - ) with multiple water molecules clustered around it. 2 - (H 2 O) n (n is any positive number equal to or greater than zero). Alternatively, positive ions can be generated by applying a positive voltage to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. In one example, the positive ions are hydrogen ions (H + ) with multiple water molecules clustered around it, forming a cluster ion [H + (H 2 O) m(m is any positive number greater than or equal to zero)].

[0026] The released positive and negative ions surround, for example, mold spores floating in the air and cause a chemical reaction on the surface of the mold spores. The chemical reaction produces the active species hydroxyl radical (·OH). The action of the hydroxyl radical (·OH) then removes the mold spores.

[0027] The first electrode 130a may be electrically connected to the second electrode 130b. The voltage applied to the second electrode 130b may have the same polarity as the voltage applied to the first electrode 130a. For example, a negative voltage may be applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b, and negative ions may be generated from each of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. Alternatively, a positive voltage may be applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b, and positive ions may be generated from each of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0028] Alternatively, a voltage of a different polarity from the voltage applied to the first electrode 130a may be applied to the second electrode 130b. A voltage of positive polarity may be applied to one of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b, and a voltage of negative polarity may be applied to the other of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0029] The first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b may be formed from a single conductive member. In this case, a voltage of the same polarity is applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0030] Next, a discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A and 1B. Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment that generates ions in the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2.

[0031] 1B, in the discharge device 100, the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b protrude in different directions from the housing 110. Typically, in the discharge device 100, at least a portion of the first electrode 130a is exposed to the first air passage Wp1. The housing 110 is disposed between the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2. In the discharge device 100, at least a portion of the second electrode 130b is exposed to the second air passage Wp2.

[0032] The first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2 extend parallel to each other in the X direction. Here, in each of the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2, wind flows from the -X direction to the +X direction. Fig. 1B shows wind Wd1 flowing through the first air passage Wp1 and wind Wd2 flowing through the second air passage Wp2.

[0033] As described above, housing 110 is disposed between first air passage Wp1 and second air passage Wp2. In particular, a part of housing 110 contacts the outer wall of first air passage Wp1, and another part of housing 110 contacts the outer wall of second air passage Wp2.

[0034] A part of the outer wall of the first air passage Wp1 is opened, and the first electrode 130a of the discharge device 100 protrudes from the opening of the outer wall of the first air passage Wp1. Here, the first direction D1 in which the first electrode 130a extends intersects with the wind Wd1 flowing through the first air passage Wp1. The first direction D1 in which the first electrode 130a extends may be perpendicular to the wind Wd1 flowing through the first air passage Wp1.

[0035] A part of the outer wall of the second air passage Wp2 is opened, and the second electrode 130b of the discharge device 100 protrudes from the opening of the outer wall of the second air passage Wp2. Here, the second direction D2 in which the second electrode 130b extends intersects with the wind Wd2 flowing through the second air passage Wp2. The second direction D2 in which the second electrode 130b extends may be perpendicular to the wind Wd2 flowing through the second air passage Wp2.

[0036] By applying a voltage to the first electrode 130a, a discharge occurs at the first electrode 130a, and ions can be generated in the first air passage Wp1. In addition, by having the first electrode 130a protrude from the housing 110, it is possible to prevent the generated ions from adhering to the outer wall of the housing 110 or the first air passage Wp1.

[0037] Moreover, by applying a voltage to the second electrode 130b, a discharge occurs at the second electrode 130b, and ions can be generated in the second air passage Wp2. Moreover, by having the second electrode 130b protrude from the housing 110, it is possible to prevent the generated ions from adhering to the outer wall of the housing 110 or the second air passage Wp2. In this way, the discharge device 100 can generate ions in the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2.

[0038] According to this embodiment, the discharge device 100 includes a housing 110, a voltage generating unit 120, a first electrode 130a, and a second electrode 130b. The voltage generating unit 120 is disposed within the housing 110. The first electrode 130a protrudes from the housing 110 in a first direction D1. A voltage is applied from the voltage generating unit 120 to the first electrode 130a. The second electrode 130b protrudes from the housing 110 in a second direction D2 different from the first direction D1. A voltage is applied from the voltage generating unit 120 to the second electrode 130b.

[0039] In the discharge device 100, a common voltage generating section 120 applies a voltage to a first electrode 130a and a second electrode 130b that protrude in different directions relative to the housing 110, thereby generating ions in different directions relative to the housing 110.

[0040] In the explanation given with reference to FIG. 1B, the discharge device 100 generates ions in the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2, which are not directly connected to each other; however, the discharge device 100 may generate ions in a specified space that is connected to each other.

[0041] 1A and 1B, each of the electrodes 130 extends linearly in one direction from the housing 110, but this embodiment is not limited to this. Each of the electrodes 130 may extend linearly in two or more directions from the housing 110.

[0042] 1A and 1B, the outer surface of the housing 110 is composed of a plurality of flat surfaces that are orthogonal to each other, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The outer surface of the housing 110 may have a surface that is inclined with respect to an adjacent surface. Alternatively, the outer surface of the housing 110 may be provided with projections and recesses. Alternatively, the outer surface of the housing 110 may have a curved surface, and the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b may protrude in different directions from the curved surface of the housing 110.

[0043] 1A and 1B, the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b are different rod-shaped members, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b may be a single rod-shaped member.

[0044] Next, a discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 2. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0045] 2, the discharge device 100 includes a housing 110, a voltage generating unit 120, a first electrode 130a, and a second electrode 130b. The first electrode 130a extends in the -Z direction from the housing 110. The first electrode 130a protrudes from the housing 110 in a first direction D1. The second electrode 130b extends in the +Z direction from the housing 110. The second electrode 130b protrudes from the housing 110 in a second direction D2.

[0046] Here, the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b are part of one rod-shaped member 130R. The rod-shaped member 130R is conductive. The rod-shaped member 130R extends linearly. The rod-shaped member 130R penetrates the housing 110 in the Z direction.

[0047] The first electrode 130a is located on the -Z direction side of the rod-shaped member 130R. The second electrode 130b is located on the +Z direction side of the rod-shaped member 130R.

[0048] The rod-shaped member 130R is electrically connected to the voltage generating unit 120. The voltage generating unit 120 applies a voltage to the rod-shaped member 130R. Here, the voltage generating unit 120 applies voltages of the same polarity to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. For example, the voltage generating unit 120 applies a negative voltage to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. Alternatively, the voltage generating unit 120 applies a positive voltage to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. Alternatively, the voltage generating unit 120 may apply an AC voltage whose polarity changes over time or an instantaneous pulse-like voltage to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0049] For example, only a voltage of one polarity (e.g., a negative voltage) may be applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b from the voltage generating unit 120. In this case, a negative voltage may be applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b, and negative ions may be generated from each of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. When the discharge device 100 is placed in the air, negative ions can be generated by applying a negative voltage to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0050] Alternatively, only a voltage of the other polarity (for example, a positive voltage) may be applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b from the voltage generating unit 120. In this case, a positive voltage may be applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b, and positive ions may be generated from each of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. Positive ions can be generated by applying a positive voltage to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0051] Voltages of the same polarity are applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b from the voltage generating unit 120. Therefore, ions of the same polarity can be generated in different directions with respect to the housing 110.

[0052] 1A to 2, the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b are rod-shaped with a constant thickness, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The thickness of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b may vary depending on the location.

[0053] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 3B. Figure 3A is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment, and Figure 3B is a schematic side view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0054] 3A, the housing 110 has a plurality of surfaces 110p exposed to the outside. Here, the outer shape of the housing 110 is a substantially cubic shape. The plurality of surfaces 110p include a first surface 110p1 and a second surface 110p2.

[0055] The first surface 110p1 is located on the -Z direction side of the multiple surfaces 110p. The first surface 110p1 faces in the -Z direction. The second surface 110p2 is located on the +Z direction side of the multiple surfaces 110p. The second surface 110p2 faces in the +Z direction.

[0056] The first electrode 130a is needle-shaped. The first electrode 130a protrudes in a first direction D1 from a first surface 110p1 of the housing 110. The first electrode 130a penetrates the first surface 110p1 of the housing 110. At the tip of the first electrode 130a, the diameter of the first electrode 130a gradually decreases with increasing distance from the housing 110.

[0057] The second electrode 130b is needle-shaped. The second electrode 130b protrudes in the second direction D2 from the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110. The second electrode 130b penetrates the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110. At the tip of the second electrode 130b, the diameter of the second electrode 130b gradually decreases with increasing distance from the housing 110.

[0058] The discharge device 100 may further include a circuit board 140. For example, the circuit board 140 is a thin plate member extending in the XY plane. The circuit board 140 is disposed inside the housing 110. The circuit board 140 is electrically connected to the voltage generating unit 120.

[0059] A first electrode 130a and a second electrode 130b are attached to the circuit board 140. Here, the first electrode 130a extends in the -Z direction from the circuit board 140. Furthermore, the second electrode 130b extends in the +Z direction from the circuit board 140.

[0060] The circuit board 140 has a conductive circuit provided on an insulating substrate. The circuit of the circuit board 140 electrically connects the voltage generating unit 120 and the first electrode 130a. The circuit of the circuit board 140 also electrically connects the voltage generating unit 120 and the second electrode 130b.

[0061] 3A and 3B, the first electrode 130a extends in a first direction D1 from a first surface 110p1 of the housing 110. The first electrode 130a protrudes from the first surface 110p1 of the housing 110 to a tip of the first electrode 130a by a length LD1.

[0062] The second electrode 130b extends in the second direction D2 from the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110. The second electrode 130b protrudes from the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110 to the tip of the second electrode 130b by a length LD2.

[0063] The first electrode 130a has a first linear portion 130a1 and a tip portion 130a2. The first linear portion 130a1 protrudes in a first direction D1. The tip portion 130a2 is located on the -Z direction side of the first linear portion 130a1. The diameter of the tip portion 130a2 is smaller than the diameter of the first linear portion 130a1. The diameter of the tip portion 130a2 gradually decreases with increasing distance from the first linear portion 130a1. Therefore, the first electrode 130a is needle-shaped.

[0064] The second electrode 130b has a second linear portion 130b1 and a tip portion 130b2. The second linear portion 130b1 protrudes in the second direction D2. The tip portion 130b2 is located on the +Z direction side of the second linear portion 130b1. The diameter of the tip portion 130b2 is smaller than the diameter of the second linear portion 130b1. The diameter of the tip portion 130b2 gradually decreases with increasing distance from the second linear portion 130b1. Therefore, the second electrode 130b is needle-shaped.

[0065] The length LD2 of the second electrode 130b protruding from the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110 is substantially equal to the length LD1 of the first electrode 130a protruding from the first surface 110p1 of the housing 110. For example, the length LD2 is 80% or more and 120% or less of the length LD1. The length LD2 may be 90% or more and 110% or less of the length LD1. Furthermore, the length LD2 may be 95% or more and 105% or less of the length LD1.

[0066] In addition, in Figures 3A and 3B, the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b penetrate the first surface 110p1 and the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110 facing each other, but the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b may also penetrate different surfaces among the multiple surfaces 110p.

[0067] According to this embodiment, the housing 110 has a plurality of surfaces 110p exposed to the outside. The plurality of surfaces 110p have a first surface 110p1 and a second surface 110p2. A first electrode 130a penetrates the first surface 110p1. A second electrode 130b penetrates the second surface 110p2. The first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b can generate ions on different surfaces of the plurality of surfaces 110p of the housing 110.

[0068] The first electrode 130a has a first linear portion 130a1 and a tip portion 130a2. The first linear portion 130a1 extends from the first surface 110p1 to the outside of the housing 110. The tip portion 130a2 is located at an end on the first direction D1 side with respect to the first linear portion 130a1, and is thinner than the first linear portion 130a1.

[0069] The second electrode 130b has a second linear portion 130b1 and a tip portion 130b2. The second linear portion 130b1 extends from the second surface 110p2 to the outside of the housing 110. The tip portion 130b2 is located at an end portion on the second direction D2 side with respect to the second linear portion 130b1, and is thinner than the second linear portion 130b1. This can improve the efficiency of ion generation in the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0070] In the discharge device 100 of this embodiment, the length LD1 of the first electrode 130a from the first surface 110p1 to the tip located outside the housing 110 is 80% or more and 120% or less of the length LD2 of the second electrode 130b from the second surface 110p2 to the tip located outside the housing 110. This makes it possible to generate approximately the same amount of ions on two of the multiple surfaces 110p of the housing 110.

[0071] 1A to 3B, the outer shape of the housing 110 is a substantially cubic shape, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The outer shape of the housing 110 may be a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape whose length in the Z direction is smaller than the lengths in the X direction and Y direction.

[0072] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 4. Figure 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0073] 4, the housing 110 has a thin box shape. The outer shape of the housing 110 is a substantially rectangular parallelepiped whose length in the Z direction is smaller than its lengths in the X direction and Y direction.

[0074] The housing 110 has a plurality of surfaces 110p exposed to the outside. Here, the plurality of surfaces 110p include a first main surface 110m1, a second main surface 110m2, and a plurality of side surfaces 110s. The plurality of side surfaces 110s are located between the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2.

[0075] The first major surface 110m1 is located on the -Z direction side of the multiple surfaces 110p. The first major surface 110m1 faces the -Z direction. The first major surface 110m1 has an area larger than each of the multiple side surfaces 110s. The first electrode 130a penetrates the first major surface 110m1.

[0076] The second major surface 110m2 is located on the +Z direction side of the multiple surfaces 110p. The second major surface 110m2 faces the +Z direction. The second major surface 110m2 has an area larger than each of the multiple side surfaces 110s. For example, the area of ​​the second major surface 110m2 is approximately equal to the area of ​​the first major surface 110m1. The second electrode 130b penetrates the second major surface 110m2.

[0077] As described above, the multiple side surfaces 110s are located between the first major surface 110m1 and the second major surface 110m2. Among the multiple side surfaces 110s, two adjacent side surfaces 110s are perpendicular to each other. The multiple side surfaces 110s include a first side surface 110s1, a second side surface 110s2, a third side surface 110s3, and a fourth side surface 110s4.

[0078] The first side surface 110s1 is located on the +X direction side of the multiple surfaces 110p. The first side surface 110s1 faces the +X direction.

[0079] The second side surface 110s2 is located on the +Y direction side of the multiple surfaces 110p. The second side surface 110s2 faces the +Y direction.

[0080] The third side surface 110s3 is located on the -X direction side of the multiple faces 110p. The third side surface 110s3 faces the -X direction. The third side surface 110s3 faces the first side surface 110s1.

[0081] The fourth side surface 110s4 is located on the -Y direction side of the multiple faces 110p. The fourth side surface 110s4 faces the -Y direction. The fourth side surface 110s4 faces the second side surface 110s2.

[0082] In this embodiment, the multiple surfaces 110p have a first main surface 110m1, a second main surface 110m2, and multiple side surfaces 110s. The first main surface 110m1 is the first surface 110p1 through which the above-mentioned first electrode 130a penetrates. The second main surface 110m2 faces the first main surface 110m1. The second main surface 110m2 is the second surface 110p2 through which the above-mentioned second electrode 130b penetrates. The multiple side surfaces 110s are provided between the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2. This allows ions to be efficiently generated across two opposing main surfaces (the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2) of the multiple surfaces 110p of the housing 110.

[0083] 1A to 4 includes the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b as the electrode 130, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. The discharge device 100 may include three or more electrodes.

[0084] 1A to 4, the first electrode 130a is located on the first surface 110p1 of the housing 110, and the second electrode 130b is located on the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110, but this embodiment is not limited to this. Two or more electrodes having different polarities of voltages applied thereto may be located on each of the first surface 110p1 and the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110.

[0085] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 5. Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 5, the discharge device 100 includes a housing 110, a voltage generating unit 120, a first electrode 130a, a second electrode 130b, a third electrode 130c, and a fourth electrode 130d. The housing 110 houses the voltage generating unit 120. The housing 110 also houses at least a portion of the first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, the third electrode 130c, and the fourth electrode 130d. In this specification, the first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, the third electrode 130c, and the fourth electrode 130d may be collectively referred to as electrodes 130.

[0087] Here, the housing 110 has a thin box shape. The housing 110 has a first main surface 110m1, a second main surface 110m2, and a side surface 110s.

[0088] The first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c extend from the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110 in the -Z direction.

[0089] The second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d extend from the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110 in the +Z direction.

[0090] For example, voltages of different polarities may be applied to the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c from the voltage generating unit 120. For example, a voltage of one polarity is applied to the first electrode 130a from the voltage generating unit 120, and a voltage of the other polarity is applied to the third electrode 130c from the voltage generating unit 120. In one example, a voltage of negative polarity is applied to the first electrode 130a from the voltage generating unit 120, and a voltage of positive polarity is applied to the third electrode 130c from the voltage generating unit 120.

[0091] Voltages of opposite polarities are applied from the voltage generating unit 120 to the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c protruding from the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110. This allows ions of opposite polarities to be generated on the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110.

[0092] Similarly, voltages of different polarities may be applied to the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d from the voltage generating unit 120. For example, a voltage of one polarity is applied to the second electrode 130b from the voltage generating unit 120. A voltage of the other polarity is applied to the fourth electrode 130d from the voltage generating unit 120. In one example, a voltage of negative polarity is applied to the second electrode 130b from the voltage generating unit 120, and a voltage of positive polarity is applied to the fourth electrode 130d from the voltage generating unit 120.

[0093] Voltages of opposite polarities are applied from the voltage generating unit 120 to the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d protruding from the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110. This allows ions of opposite polarities to be generated on the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110.

[0094] According to the present embodiment, the discharge device 100 further includes a third electrode 130c and a fourth electrode 130d in addition to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. The third electrode 130c protrudes from the first surface 110p1 of the housing 110 in a first direction D1. A voltage having a polarity different from that of the first electrode 130a is applied from the voltage generating unit 120 to the third electrode 130c.

[0095] The fourth electrode 130d protrudes from the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110 in the second direction D2. A voltage of a different polarity from that of the second electrode 130b is applied to the fourth electrode 130d from the voltage generating unit 120. As a result, the polarities of the voltages applied to the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c are different, so that ions of different polarities can be generated on the first surface 110p1 of the housing 110. In addition, the polarities of the voltages applied to the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d are different, so that ions of different polarities can be generated on the second surface 110p2 of the housing 110.

[0096] In the discharge device 100 of this embodiment, the housing 110 has a box shape that encloses an internal space. The housing 110 may be composed of two members.

[0097] Next, a discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 6. Figure 6 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0098] 6, the discharge device 100 includes a housing 110, a voltage generating unit 120, a first electrode 130a, a second electrode 130b, a third electrode 130c, a fourth electrode 130d, and a circuit board 140. The voltage generating unit 120 and the circuit board 140 are disposed within the housing 110.

[0099] The first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, the third electrode 130c, and the fourth electrode 130d are attached to the circuit board 140. For example, the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c are joined to the circuit board 140 by the same joining member. Also, the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d are joined to the circuit board 140 by the same joining member.

[0100] The housing 110 has a storage section 112 and a lid 114. The storage section 112 is box-shaped with an open top and a recessed bottom that is exposed. The storage section 112 stores the voltage generating section 120 and the circuit board 140. The storage section 112 also stores at least a portion of each of the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c.

[0101] Holes 112p and 112q are provided in the bottom surface of housing portion 112. When circuit board 140 is housed in housing portion 112, first electrode 130a passes through hole 112p, and third electrode 130c passes through hole 112q.

[0102] The lid 114 covers the storage section 112. The lid 114 contacts the side of the storage section 112. The lid 114 may be flat. The lid 114 may also be recessed so that the lower surface facing the storage section 112 is open.

[0103] Holes 114p and 114q are provided in the lid 114. When the housing portion 112 housing the circuit board 140 is covered with the lid 114, the second electrode 130b passes through the hole 114p, and the fourth electrode 130d passes through the hole 114q.

[0104] The voltage generating unit 120 includes a boost circuit 122 that boosts an input voltage. The boost circuit 122 has an input board 122s and a transformer 122t. The input board 122s is disposed adjacent to the transformer 122t. The transformer 122t is located between the input board 122s and the circuit board 140. An input voltage is input to the input board 122s. The transformer 122t boosts the voltage input to the input board 122s. Note that while the secondary winding of the transformer 122t is shown here, the primary winding and input terminal of the transformer 122t are omitted in order to avoid overly complicating the drawing. The primary winding of the transformer 122t is located on the +Y direction side with respect to the secondary winding of the transformer 122t.

[0105] The circuit board 140 electrically connects the voltage generating unit 120 to each of the first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, the third electrode 130c, and the fourth electrode 130d. The voltage generated in the voltage generating unit 120 is applied via the circuit board 140 to each of the first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, the third electrode 130c, and the fourth electrode 130d.

[0106] As described above, the voltage generating unit 120 has the boost circuit 122 including a transformer that boosts the input voltage. The boost circuit 122 has a first output terminal 122a electrically connected to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0107] The circuit board 140 includes an insulating substrate 141, a circuit 142, a diode 143, and a diode 144. The insulating substrate 141 is an insulating thin plate. The circuit 142 is a conductive thin wire. The circuit 142 is disposed on the insulating substrate 141. The circuit 142 is connected to a first output terminal 122a of the boost circuit 122.

[0108] The diode 143 and the diode 144 are disposed on the circuit 142. Typically, the diode 143 and the diode 144 are electrically connected via the circuit 142.

[0109] Diode 143 passes a voltage of one polarity among the voltages input to circuit 142. The voltage that has passed through diode 143 is applied to first electrode 130a and second electrode 130b.

[0110] Furthermore, the diode 144 passes a voltage of the other polarity out of the voltages input to the circuit 142. The voltage that has passed through the diode 144 is applied to the third electrode 130c and the fourth electrode 130d.

[0111] According to this embodiment, the housing 110 has a housing portion 112 and a lid 114. The housing portion 112 houses the voltage generating portion 120 and the circuit board 140. The lid 114 covers the housing portion 112. This allows the discharge device 100 to be easily assembled.

[0112] The discharge device 100 further includes a circuit board 140 in addition to the housing 110, the voltage generating unit 120, and the electrode 130. The circuit board 140 is disposed within the housing 110. A first electrode 130a and a second electrode 130b are provided on the circuit board 140. This allows the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b to be attached to the circuit board 140, which is provided with a circuit 142 that electrically connects the voltage generating unit 120 to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b, within the housing 110.

[0113] The voltage generating unit 120 has a boost circuit 122 including a transformer 122t that boosts an input voltage. The boost circuit 122 has a first output terminal 122a that is electrically connected to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b. This allows the voltage boosted within the housing 110 to be applied to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b.

[0114] In the discharge device 100, a discharge occurs and ions are generated in response to a voltage indicating the difference between the potential applied to the electrode 130 and the potential around the electrode 130. The discharge device 100 may include a member indicating a potential that serves as a reference for the potential of the electrode 130.

[0115] Next, the discharge device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 7B. Figure 7A is a schematic exploded perspective view of the discharge device 100 of this embodiment. Figure 7B is a partial enlarged view of the electrode 130, circuit board 140, and electrode substrate 150 of Figure 7A. Note that Figure 7A has the same configuration as the discharge device 100 of Figure 6A, except that the discharge device 100 further includes the electrode substrate 150 and insulating member 170, and therefore, in order to avoid redundant explanation, duplicated explanation will be omitted.

[0116] 7A, the discharge device 100 includes an electrode substrate 150. The electrode substrate 150 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 112. The electrode substrate 150 is disposed at a position separated from the circuit substrate 140 and overlapping the circuit substrate 140. The electrode substrate 150 is electrically connected to the voltage generating portion 120. The electrode substrate 150 exhibits a potential that serves as a reference for the potential of the electrode 130.

[0117] As described above, the boost circuit 122 has the first output terminal 122a. The first output terminal 122a is electrically connected to the circuit 142 on the circuit board 140.

[0118] The boost circuit 122 further has a second output terminal 122b in addition to the above-mentioned first output terminal 122a. The first output terminal 122a is located on one side of the secondary coil of the transformer 122t, and the second output terminal 122b is located on the other side of the secondary coil of the transformer 122t. The second output terminal 122b is electrically connected to the electrode substrate 150.

[0119] Electrode substrate 150 has insulating substrate 151 and induction electrode 152. Insulating substrate 151 is a thin insulating substrate. Induction electrode 152 is located on a main surface of insulating substrate 151. For example, induction electrode 152 is located on both surfaces of insulating substrate 151, the +Z direction side and the -Z direction side, but induction electrode 152 may be located only on the +Z direction side or only on the -Z direction side of insulating substrate 151.

[0120] Induction electrode 152 is electrically connected to voltage generating unit 120. It is preferable that a potential having a large potential difference from the potential applied to electrode 130 is applied to induction electrode 152. Induction electrode 152 is electrically connected to second output terminal 122b. In addition, second output terminal 122b may be electrically connected to the ground of the input terminal included in boost circuit 122.

[0121] Therefore, it is possible to reduce the influence of the surrounding environment and generate a stable discharge based on the voltage indicating the difference between the potential applied to the electrode 130 and the potential of the electrode substrate 150. Therefore, it is possible to generate ions stably.

[0122] The discharge device 100 includes an insulating member 170. The insulating member 170 exhibits insulating properties. The insulating member 170 is housed in the housing portion 112. The insulating member 170 is filled into the housing portion 112 in a state in which the voltage generating unit 120, the circuit board 140, and the electrode board 150 are arranged in the housing portion 112. For example, the insulating member 170 is formed from an insulating curable resin.

[0123] In this embodiment, in addition to first output terminal 122a, boost circuit 122 further has second output terminal 122b electrically connected to induction electrode 152. This makes it possible to stably apply a potential with a large potential difference from the potentials applied to first electrode 130a and second electrode 130b to induction electrode 152 provided on electrode substrate 150 separate from circuit substrate 140 to which first electrode 130a and second electrode 130b are attached, thereby improving the efficiency of ion generation at first electrode 130a and second electrode 130b.

[0124] Next, the assembly of the discharge device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 8F. Figures 8A to 8F are schematic perspective views for explaining the assembly of the discharge device 100.

[0125] 8A, there are prepared an accommodation portion 112, a lid 114, a voltage generating portion 120, a first electrode 130a, a second electrode 130b, a third electrode 130c, a fourth electrode 130d, and a circuit board 140. Holes 112p and 112q are provided in the bottom surface of the accommodation portion 112.

[0126] The circuit board 140 includes an insulating substrate 141, a circuit 142, a diode 143, and a diode 144. The insulating substrate 141 is an insulating thin plate. The circuit 142 is a conductive thin wire. The circuit 142 is disposed on the insulating substrate 141.

[0127] Hole 141p and hole 141q are provided in insulating substrate 141. Hole 141p penetrates insulating substrate 141 in the thickness direction. Similarly, hole 141q penetrates insulating substrate 141 in the thickness direction.

[0128] The diode 143 and the diode 144 are disposed on an insulating substrate 141. Typically, the diode 143 and the diode 144 are electrically connected via a circuit 142.

[0129] Diode 143 transmits a voltage on one side to the other side. Diode 143 also transmits a voltage of one polarity among the voltages generated in voltage generating unit 120.

[0130] Similarly, the diode 144 transmits the voltage on one side to the other side. Also, the diode 144 transmits the voltage of one polarity among the voltages generated in the voltage generating unit 120.

[0131] 8B, the first electrode 130a penetrates the hole 112p of the housing portion 112, and the third electrode 130c penetrates the hole 112q of the housing portion 112. Here, the inner diameter of the hole 112p of the housing portion 112 is approximately equal to the diameter of the first electrode 130a. Therefore, the first electrode 130a contacts the inner circumference of the hole 112p of the housing portion 112, and the first electrode 130a is press-fitted into the hole 112p of the housing portion 112.

[0132] The inner diameter of hole 112q of housing portion 112 is approximately equal to the diameter of third electrode 130c. Therefore, third electrode 130c contacts the inner circumference of hole 112q of housing portion 112, and third electrode 130c is press-fitted into hole 112q of housing portion 112.

[0133] 8C, the voltage generating unit 120 and the circuit board 140 are disposed in the housing unit 112. The voltage generating unit 120 includes a boost circuit 122. The boost circuit 122 includes an input board 122s and a transformer 122t.

[0134] The first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c are attached to the circuit board 140. The second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d are attached to the circuit board 140. After that, caps are attached to the tips of the first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, the third electrode 130c, and the fourth electrode 130d for protection. Here, the second electrode 130b is electrically connected to the first electrode 130a. The fourth electrode 130d is electrically connected to the third electrode 130c.

[0135] 8D, electrode substrate 150 is further disposed. Electrode substrate 150 has insulating substrate 151 and induction electrode 152. Electrode substrate 150 is disposed at a position separated from circuit substrate 140 in the +Z direction so as to overlap circuit substrate 140. Induction electrode 152 of electrode substrate 150 is electrically connected to second output terminal 122b of boost circuit 122.

[0136] 8E, a liquid curable resin material is injected into the accommodation portion 112. The curable resin material is filled into the accommodation portion 112 that accommodates the voltage generating portion 120, the circuit board 140, and the electrode board 150. The curable resin may be a heat-curable epoxy resin.

[0137] 8F, the curable resin material is cured in the housing portion 112. The curable resin material is cured to form the insulating member 170. The insulating member 170 fills the inside of the housing 110. The insulating member 170 can suppress fluctuations in electrical connection inside the housing 110 due to the adhesion of dust and the like.

[0138] Typically, the curable resin material is cured by light or heat. After that, the housing section 112 housing the voltage generating section 120, the circuit board 140, and the electrode board 150 is covered with the lid 114. At this time, the second electrode 130b penetrates the hole 114p of the lid 114, and the fourth electrode 130d penetrates the hole 114q of the lid 114. In this way, the discharge device 100 can be assembled.

[0139] According to the present embodiment, the discharge device 100 further includes an insulating member 170. The insulating member 170 is disposed within the housing 110. The insulating member 170 covers a portion of each of the first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, and the circuit board 140. This makes it possible to suppress unintended abnormal discharge (leakage) at the first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, and the circuit board 140 within the housing portion 112.

[0140] Moreover, according to the present embodiment, the accommodation portion 112 is provided with a hole 112p through which the first electrode 130a penetrates. At least a portion of the first electrode 130a contacts the inner circumference of the hole 112p in the accommodation portion 112. This allows the first electrode 130a to be fixed to the accommodation portion 112 by press-fitting the first electrode 130a into the hole 112p of the accommodation portion 112. Furthermore, when a curable resin is used as the insulating member 170, it is possible to prevent the curable resin before it is cured from leaking from the hole 112p through which the first electrode 130a penetrates.

[0141] Next, a discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 9. Figure 9 is a circuit diagram of the discharge device 100.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 9, the discharge device 100 includes a voltage generating unit 120, a first electrode 130a, a second electrode 130b, a third electrode 130c, a fourth electrode 130d, a circuit 142, a diode 143, a diode 144, and an induction electrode 152.

[0143] The voltage generating unit 120 includes a boost circuit 122. The boost circuit 122 has a first output terminal 122a and a second output terminal 122b. The first output terminal 122a is located on one side of the secondary coil, and the second output terminal 122b is located on the other side of the secondary coil.

[0144] The boost circuit 122 boosts the AC voltage input as the input voltage. In this case, the voltage indicating the potential of the first output terminal 122a relative to the potential of the second output terminal 122b is the AC voltage.

[0145] The first output terminal 122a is electrically connected to the circuit 142 of the circuit board 140. The second output terminal 122b is electrically connected to the induction electrode 152 of the electrode board 150.

[0146] The first output terminal 122a is electrically connected to the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b via a diode 143. The diode 143 allows a voltage of one polarity with respect to the potential of the induction electrode 152 to pass therethrough.

[0147] The first output terminal 122a is electrically connected to the third electrode 130c and the fourth electrode 130d via a diode 144. The diode 144 allows a voltage of the other polarity with respect to the potential of the induction electrode 152 to pass therethrough.

[0148] For example, when diode 143 passes a voltage of negative polarity with respect to induction electrode 152, diode 144 passes a voltage of positive polarity with respect to induction electrode 152. In this case, a negative voltage is applied from voltage generating unit 120 to first electrode 130a and second electrode 130b, and a positive voltage is applied from voltage generating unit 120 to third electrode 130c and fourth electrode 130d.

[0149] 1A to 8, the outer shape of the housing 110 is a cube or a rectangular parallelepiped, and the exposed surfaces of the housing 110 are perpendicular to the adjacent surfaces, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The housing 110 may have a surface that is inclined with respect to the adjacent surface.

[0150] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 10A to 10C. Figure 10A is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Figure 10B is a schematic side view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Figure 10C is a schematic exploded perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment mounted in the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2.

[0151] 10A and 10B, the housing 110 has a plurality of surfaces 110p. The plurality of surfaces 110p includes a first main surface 110m1, a second main surface 110m2, and a plurality of side surfaces 110s. The plurality of side surfaces 110s includes a first side surface 110s1, a second side surface 110s2, a third side surface 110s3, and a fourth side surface 110s4.

[0152] The first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c protrude in a first direction D1 from a first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110. The second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d protrude from a second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110 in a second direction D2.

[0153] As described above, the housing 110 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape that is thin in the Z direction. Therefore, the short side direction of the housing 110 is parallel to the Z direction. Here, the Z direction is called the first reference direction Rd1. The first reference direction Rd1 is the direction in which the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 face each other.

[0154] The first side surface 110s1 is located on the +X direction side of the multiple side surfaces 110s and faces the +X direction. The short side direction of the first side surface 110s1 is the first reference direction Rd1, and the long side direction of the first side surface 110s1 is the second reference direction Rd2.

[0155] The second side surface 110s2 is located on the +Y direction side of the multiple side surfaces 110s and faces the +Y direction. The short side direction of the second side surface 110s2 is the first reference direction Rd1, and the long side direction of the second side surface 110s2 is the third reference direction Rd3.

[0156] The third side surface 110s3 is located on the -X direction side of the multiple side surfaces 110s and faces the -X direction. The short side direction of the third side surface 110s3 is the first reference direction Rd1, and the long side direction of the third side surface 110s3 is the second reference direction Rd2.

[0157] The fourth side surface 110s4 is located on the -Y direction side of the multiple side surfaces 110s and faces the -Y direction. The short side direction of the fourth side surface 110s4 is the first reference direction Rd1, and the long side direction of the fourth side surface 110s4 is the third reference direction Rd3.

[0158] The multiple surfaces 110p include an inclined surface 110n1 that is continuous with the first main surface 110m1 and the second side surface 110s2, and an inclined surface 110n2 that is continuous with the first main surface 110m1 and the fourth side surface 110s4. The inclined surface 110n1 is inclined with respect to each of the first main surface 110m1 and the second side surface 110s2. The inclined surface 110n2 is inclined with respect to each of the first main surface 110m1 and the fourth side surface 110s4. In this specification, the inclined surface 110n1 and the inclined surface 110n2 may be collectively referred to as the inclined surface 110n.

[0159] 10A and 10B, the multiple faces 110p have the inclined surface 110n1 and the inclined surface 110n2, but the multiple faces 110p may have only one of the inclined surface 110n1 and the inclined surface 110n2. For example, the multiple faces 110p may have an inclined surface 110n1 between the first main surface 110m1 and the second side surface 110s2 that is inclined with respect to each of the first main surface 110m1 and the second side surface 110s2, while the first main surface 110m1 and the fourth side surface 110s4 may be in contact with each other perpendicularly. Alternatively, the multiple faces 110p may have an inclined surface 110n2 between the first main surface 110m1 and the fourth side surface 110s4 that is inclined with respect to each of the first main surface 110m1 and the fourth side surface 110s4, while the first main surface 110m1 and the second side surface 110s2 may be in contact with each other perpendicularly. Also, here, the inclined surface 110n is provided continuously with the first main surface 110m1, but the inclined surface 110n may be provided continuously with the second main surface 110m2.

[0160] The multiple side surfaces 110s include a first side surface 110s1, a second side surface 110s2, a third side surface 110s3, and a fourth side surface 110s4. The first side surface 110s1 has a second reference direction Rd2 that intersects with a first reference direction Rd1 in which the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 face each other as a longitudinal direction. The second side surface 110s2 has a third reference direction Rd3 that intersects with the first reference direction Rd1 and the second reference direction Rd2 as a longitudinal direction. The second side surface 110s2 is connected to the first side surface 110s1.

[0161] The third side surface 110s3 has a longitudinal direction in the second reference direction Rd2. The third side surface 110s3 is connected to the second side surface 110s2. The fourth side surface 110s4 has a longitudinal direction in the third reference direction Rd3. The fourth side surface 110s4 is connected to the third side surface 110s3 and the first side surface 110s1.

[0162] The length in the third reference direction Rd3 of each of the second side surface 110s2 and the fourth side surface 110s4 is greater than the length in the second reference direction Rd2 of each of the first side surface 110s1 and the third side surface 110s3.

[0163] The inclined surface 110n is continuous with one of the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 and at least one of the second side surface 110s2 and the fourth side surface 110s4. Since the inclined surface 110n is provided in the longitudinal direction of the housing 110, a large area of ​​the inclined surface can be ensured.

[0164] 10A and 10B, the discharge device 100 may have an asymmetric structure with respect to a plane parallel to the XY plane. This makes it possible to prevent the discharge device 100 from being attached to the housing attachment part in an unintended orientation due to the shape of the housing attachment part to which the housing 110 of the discharge device 100 is attached.

[0165] 10A to 10C, discharge device 100 is fixed to first air passage Wp1 and second air passage Wp2. In discharge device 100, first electrode 130a and third electrode 130c are disposed in first air passage Wp1, and second electrode 130b and fourth electrode 130d are disposed in second air passage Wp2.

[0166] A partition wall Pw that prevents communication between the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2 is provided at the boundary between the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2, and a housing mounting part 800 is provided on the partition wall Pw. Housing 110 of discharge device 100 is mounted on housing mounting part 800. Housing 110 is mounted on housing mounting part 800 along the third reference direction Rd3.

[0167] The housing mounting portion 800 has a first side wall 802, a second side wall 804, a connecting wall 806, an inclined wall 803, and an inclined wall 805. The first side wall 802 extends in a first reference direction Rd1 and a third reference direction Rd3 of the housing 110. When the housing 110 is mounted to the housing mounting portion 800, the first side wall 802 faces a fourth side surface 110s4 of the housing 110.

[0168] The second side wall 804 extends in the first reference direction Rd1 and the third reference direction Rd3 of the housing 110. When the housing 110 is attached to the housing attachment portion 800, the second side wall 804 faces a second side surface 110s2 of the housing 110.

[0169] The connecting wall 806 extends in the second reference direction Rd2 and the third reference direction Rd3 of the housing 110. When the housing 110 is attached to the housing attachment portion 800, the connecting wall 806 faces the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110.

[0170] The inclined wall 803 connects the first side wall 802 and the connecting wall 806. The inclined wall 803 is inclined with respect to both the first side wall 802 and the connecting wall 806. When the housing 110 is attached to the housing attachment portion 800, the inclined wall 803 faces the inclined surface 110n2 of the housing 110.

[0171] The inclined wall 805 connects the second side wall 804 and the connecting wall 806. The inclined wall 805 is inclined with respect to both the second side wall 804 and the connecting wall 806. When the housing 110 of the discharge device 100 is attached to the housing attachment portion 800, the inclined wall 805 faces the inclined surface 110n1 of the housing 110.

[0172] According to this embodiment, the multiple surfaces 110p further include an inclined surface 110n that is continuous with one of the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 and at least one of the multiple side surfaces 110s, in addition to the first main surface 110m1, the second main surface 110m2, and the first side surface 110s1 to the fourth side surface 110s4. The inclined surface 110n is inclined with respect to one of the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 and at least one of the multiple side surfaces 110s. The inclined surface 110n can increase the area of ​​the housing mounting portion 800 to which the housing 110 is mounted and the housing 110, thereby improving the positional accuracy of the housing 110.

[0173] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the shape of the housing attachment part 800 to which the housing 110 of the discharge device 100 is attached can prevent the discharge device 100 from being attached to the housing attachment part 800 in a different orientation.

[0174] As described above, an input voltage is externally input to the discharge device 100. In this case, the housing 110 may be provided with a mounting portion to which a connector for inputting an input voltage from the outside is attached.

[0175] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1A to 11D. Fig. 11A is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 11B is a schematic exploded perspective view of the circuit board 140 and the first electrode 130a to the fourth electrode 130d in the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 11C is a schematic side view of the circuit board 140 and the first electrode 130a to the fourth electrode 130d in the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 11D is a schematic bottom view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0176] 11A, a connector mounting portion 110c is provided in the housing 110. A connector is mounted in the connector mounting portion 110c. When the connector is mounted in the connector mounting portion 110c, an input voltage is input from the connector to the input board 122s (FIG. 6) via the connector mounting portion 110c.

[0177] Here, the connector mounting portion 110c is located between the third side surface 110s3 and the fourth side surface 110s4. The connector mounting portion 110c extends in the -X direction. Therefore, the connector can be mounted to the connector mounting portion 110c by moving the connector along the +X direction relative to the connector mounting portion 110c.

[0178] The first electrode 130a, the second electrode 130b, the third electrode 130c, and the fourth electrode 130d are located on the +X direction side of the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110. On the other hand, the connector mounting portion 110c is located on the -X direction side of the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110.

[0179] 11B, holes 141p and 141q are provided in insulating substrate 141 of circuit board 140. Here, in order to avoid overly complicating the drawing, insulating substrate 141, holes 141p, and holes 141q are shown in circuit board 140.

[0180] 11B and 11C, a first electrode 130a and a second electrode 130b are inserted into a hole 141p of the insulating substrate 141. Furthermore, a third electrode 130c and a fourth electrode 130d are inserted into a hole 141q of the insulating substrate 141.

[0181] 11A and 11D, a connector mounting portion 110c to which a connector is attached is provided in the housing 110. The connector mounting portion 110c is located in the housing 110 between a third side surface 110s3 on the -X direction side and a fourth side surface 110s4 on the -Y direction side.

[0182] In this embodiment, the housing 110 has a connector mounting portion 110c on the third side surface 110s3, to which a connector for inputting an input voltage to the voltage generating unit 120 can be mounted. This makes it possible to ensure a sufficient length of the guide when moving the connector along the +X direction when mounting the connector to the connector mounting portion 110c in the housing 110, thereby improving the accuracy of connector mounting.

[0183] 1A to 11D, the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b protrude from two opposing surfaces of the housing 110, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. The first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b may protrude from a surface of the housing 110 that does not face each other.

[0184] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1A to 12D. Fig. 12A is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 12B is a schematic side view of a circuit board 140 and an electrode 130 in the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 12C is a schematic side view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 12D is a schematic bottom view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0185] 12A, the first electrode 130a protrudes in the +X direction from a first side surface 110s1 of the housing 110, and the second electrode 130b extends in the +Z direction from a second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110. Therefore, a first direction D1 in which the first electrode 130a protrudes from the housing 110 is perpendicular to a second direction D2 in which the second electrode 130b protrudes from the housing 110.

[0186] The third electrode 130c protrudes from the first side surface 110s1 of the housing 110 in the +X direction, and the fourth electrode 130d extends from the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110 in the +Z direction.

[0187] 12B, electrodes 130 are attached to insulating substrate 141. First electrode 130a is attached parallel to the main surface of insulating substrate 141. Similarly, third electrode 130c is attached parallel to the main surface of insulating substrate 141.

[0188] The second electrode 130b is attached so as to be perpendicular to the main surface of the insulating substrate 141. Similarly, the fourth electrode 130d is attached so as to be perpendicular to the main surface of the insulating substrate 141.

[0189] 12A and 12C, the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c protrude in the +X direction from the first side surface 110s1 of the housing 110. Therefore, the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c can cause a discharge on the first side surface 110s1 of the housing 110, thereby generating ions.

[0190] Furthermore, the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d extend in the +Z direction from the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110. Therefore, the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d can cause a discharge on the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110, thereby generating ions.

[0191] 12D, a connector mounting portion 110c to which a connector is attached is provided in the housing 110. The connector mounting portion 110c is located in the housing 110 between a third side surface 110s3 on the -X direction side and a fourth side surface 110s4 on the -Y direction side.

[0192] 1A to 12D, the electrodes 130 are rod-shaped or needle-shaped, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. The electrodes 130 may have a different shape.

[0193] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 13B. Figure 13A is a schematic perspective view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment, and Figure 13B is a schematic view of an electrode 130 in the discharge device 100 of Figure 13A.

[0194] As shown in Fig. 13A, the discharge device 100 includes a housing 110, a first electrode 130a, and a second electrode 130b. The housing 110 has an internal space. The housing 110 houses the voltage generating unit 120. The first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b are brush-shaped discharge electrodes. The tips of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b are brush-shaped.

[0195] 13B, the electrode 130 has a plurality of linear conductors 131, a base end 132 to which the plurality of conductors 131 are attached, and a tip end 133 in which the conductors 131 are separated into a brush-like shape. The tip end 133 is formed from the conductor 131 that is further forward than the base end 132. More specifically, the tip end 133 indicates a portion from the tip of the brush-shaped conductor 131 to the connection end (contact end) with the base end 132. The linear conductor 131 may be thread-like, fibrous, or wire-like.

[0196] The tip portion 133 is formed of a conductive material such as, for example, metal, carbon fiber, conductive fiber, conductive resin, etc. The outer diameter of each of the multiple conductors 131 in the tip portion 133 is 5 μm or more and 30 μm or less. The conductors 131 may be carbon fiber or may be conductive fiber made of SUS (stainless steel).

[0197] The base end 132 has a metal plate-like mounting portion 132a for mounting the electrode 130 to a circuit board 140 (FIG. 5), and a bundling portion 132b for bundling the plurality of conductors 131 at the tip end 133 at the connection end.

[0198] 1A to 13B, the linear electrode 130 protrudes in a straight line from the housing 110, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The linear electrode 130 may protrude from the housing 110 while changing its direction.

[0199] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1A to 14E. Fig. 14A is a schematic perspective view of an insulating substrate 141, a first electrode 130a, and a second electrode 130b in the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 14B is a schematic side view of the insulating substrate 141, a first electrode 130a, and a second electrode 130b in the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 14C is a schematic side view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 14D is a schematic top view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 14E is a schematic side view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0200] As shown in FIG. 14A, the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b are brush-shaped discharge electrodes. The ends of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b are located in holes 141h of the insulating substrate 141. Here, the first electrode 130a has two ends extending in the Z direction and a middle portion extending in the X direction located between the two ends. Similarly, the second electrode 130b has two ends extending in the Z direction and a middle portion extending in the X direction located between the two ends.

[0201] 14A and 14B, first electrode 130a extends in the -Z direction relative to insulating substrate 141, then extends in the -X direction, and then extends in the -Z direction. Second electrode 130b extends in the +Z direction relative to insulating substrate 141, then extends in the +X direction, and then extends in the +Z direction.

[0202] 14C to 14E, the first electrode 130a protrudes in the -X direction along the first main surface 110m1 outside the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110, and further extends in the -Z direction at a position facing the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110. The second electrode 130b protrudes in the +X direction along the second main surface 110m2 outside the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110, and further extends in the +Z direction at a position not facing the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110.

[0203] In addition, in the discharge device 100 shown in Figures 1A to 14E, the electrode 130 protrudes from the housing 110, so if a component other than the discharge device 100 is located near the periphery of the housing 110, the electrode 130 may come into contact with the component.

[0204] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 15B. Figures 15A and 15B are schematic perspective views of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0205] As shown in FIG. 15A, the discharge device 100 of this embodiment includes a housing 110, a first electrode 130a, a second electrode 130b, a third electrode 130c, and a fourth electrode 130d.

[0206] The housing 110 has a first main surface 110m1, a second main surface 110m2, and a plurality of side surfaces 110s. An electrode protection member 118 is attached to the housing 110. The electrode protection member 118 prevents at least one of the first electrode 130a to the fourth electrode 130d from contacting other members. For example, the electrode protection member 118 extends parallel to the direction in which the electrode 130 extends from the surface from which at least one of the first electrode 130a to the fourth electrode 130d protrudes with respect to the housing 110. In one example, the electrode protection member 118 extends in the -Z direction from the first main surface 110m1, similar to the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c. Moreover, the electrode protection member 118 extends in the +Z direction from the second main surface 110m2, similar to the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d.

[0207] For example, electrode protection member 118 extends in the -Z and +Z directions from the +Y and -Y ends on the +X direction sides of first and second principal surfaces 110m1 and 110m2, respectively. Here, electrode protection member 118 has protrusions 118a1, 118a2, protrusions 118b1, 118b2, protrusions 118c1, 118c2, and protrusions 118d1, 118d2.

[0208] The protrusions 118a1 and 118a2 extend in the -Z direction from the ends on the -Y direction side on the +X direction side of the first major surface 110m1. The protrusions 118a1 and 118a2 face the first electrode 130a. In the X direction, the first electrode 130a is located between the protrusions 118a1 and 118a2. The length of the protrusions 118a1 and 118a2 relative to the first major surface 110m1 is greater than the length of the first electrode 130a relative to the first major surface 110m1.

[0209] Moreover, the protrusions 118c1 and 118c2 extend in the -Z direction from the end on the +Y direction side on the +X direction side of the first major surface 110m1. The protrusions 118c1 and 118c2 face the third electrode 130c. In the X direction, the third electrode 130c is located between the protrusions 118c1 and 118c2. The length of the protrusions 118c1 and 118c2 relative to the first major surface 110m1 is greater than the length of the third electrode 130c relative to the first major surface 110m1.

[0210] The protrusions 118b1 and 118b2 extend in the +Z direction from the ends on the -Y direction side on the +X direction side of the second major surface 110m2. The protrusions 118b1 and 118b2 face the second electrode 130b. In the X direction, the second electrode 130b is located between the protrusions 118b1 and 118b2. The length of the protrusions 118b1 and 118b2 relative to the second major surface 110m2 is greater than the length of the second electrode 130b relative to the second major surface 110m2.

[0211] The protrusions 118d1 and 118d2 extend in the +Z direction from the end on the +Y direction side on the +X direction side of the second major surface 110m2. The protrusions 118d1 and 118d2 face the fourth electrode 130d. In the X direction, the fourth electrode 130d is located between the protrusions 118d1 and 118d2. The length of the protrusions 118d1 and 118d2 relative to the second major surface 110m2 is greater than the length of the fourth electrode 130d relative to the second major surface 110m2.

[0212] 15A, when a relatively large member approaches the first main surface 110m1 and / or the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110, any one of the protrusions 118a1 to 118d2 of the electrode protection member 118 comes into contact with the member before the electrode 130 comes into contact with the member, so that the electrode 130 can be prevented from coming into contact with the member and being deformed. For example, when a member longer than the longitudinal lengths of the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 approaches the first main surface 110m1 and / or the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110, any one of the protrusions 118a1 to 118d2 of the electrode protection member 118 comes into contact with the member before the electrode 130 comes into contact with the member, so that the electrode 130 can be prevented from coming into contact with the member and being deformed.

[0213] However, from the viewpoint of preventing contact between the electrode 130 and a component, when a relatively small component approaches the first main surface 110m1 and the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110, it is preferable that the protrusions 118a1 to 118d2 of the electrode protection member 118 come into contact with the component before the electrode 130 comes into contact with the component.

[0214] As shown in FIG. 15B, the discharge device 100 of this embodiment includes a housing 110, a first electrode 130a, a second electrode 130b, a third electrode 130c, and a fourth electrode 130d.

[0215] The housing 110 has a first main surface 110m1, a second main surface 110m2, and a plurality of side surfaces 110s. An electrode protection member 118 is attached to the housing 110. The electrode protection member 118 prevents at least one of the first to fourth electrodes 130a to 130d from contacting other members. For example, the electrode protection member 118 extends in parallel with the direction in which the electrodes extend from the surface from which at least one of the first to fourth electrodes 130a to 130d protrudes with respect to the housing 110. In one example, the electrode protection member 118 extends in the -Z direction from the first main surface 110m1, similar to the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c. Moreover, the electrode protection member 118 extends in the +Z direction from the second main surface 110m2, similar to the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d.

[0216] Here, the electrode protection member 118 has a first protection body 118p and a second protection body 118q. The first protection body 118p is located on the +X direction side of the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110. The second protection body 118q is located on the +X direction side of the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110. The first protection body 118p and the second protection body 118q have the same configuration.

[0217] The first protector 118p has a protector 118a, a protector 118c, and a wall member 118w1. The protector 118a, the protector 118c, and the wall member 118w1 protrude from the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110 in the -Z direction.

[0218] The protective portion 118a is provided on the -Y direction side of the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110. The protective portion 118a covers the periphery of the first electrode 130a. For example, the protective portion 118a has an annular portion extending in the Y direction on the -X direction side of the first electrode 130a, and an annular portion extending in the Y direction on the +X direction side of the first electrode 130a. The protective portion 118a protects the first electrode 130a.

[0219] The protective portion 118c is provided on the +Y direction side of the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110. The protective portion 118c covers the periphery of the third electrode 130c. For example, the protective portion 118c has an annular portion extending in the Y direction on the -X direction side of the third electrode 130c, and an annular portion extending in the Y direction on the +X direction side of the third electrode 130c. The protective portion 118c protects the third electrode 130c.

[0220] The wall member 118w1 is disposed between the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c. The wall member 118w1 can lengthen a leakage path of a current that may occur between the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c. In addition, the wall member 118w1 can suppress the ions released into the space from adhering to and / or disappearing in the vicinity of the first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110.

[0221] The second protector 118q has a protector 118b, a protector 118d, and a wall member 118w2. The protector 118b, the protector 118d, and the wall member 118w2 protrude from the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110 in the +Z direction.

[0222] The protective portion 118b is provided on the -Y direction side of the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110. The protective portion 118b covers the periphery of the second electrode 130b. For example, the protective portion 118b has an annular portion extending in the Y direction on the -X direction side with respect to the second electrode 130b, and an annular portion extending in the Y direction on the +X direction side with respect to the second electrode 130b. The protective portion 118b protects the second electrode 130b.

[0223] The protective portion 118d is provided on the +Y direction side of the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110. The protective portion 118d covers the periphery of the fourth electrode 130d. For example, the protective portion 118d has an annular portion extending in the Y direction on the -X direction side of the fourth electrode 130d, and an annular portion extending in the Y direction on the +X direction side of the fourth electrode 130d. The protective portion 118d protects the fourth electrode 130d.

[0224] The wall member 118w2 is disposed between the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d. The wall member 118w2 can lengthen a leakage path of a current that may occur between the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d. In addition, the wall member 118w2 can suppress the ions released into the space from adhering to and / or disappearing in the vicinity of the second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110.

[0225] In this embodiment, the discharge device 100 further includes an electrode protection member 118 that protrudes from the periphery of at least one of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b to the outside of the housing 110. The electrode protection member 118 can prevent at least one of the first electrode 130a and the second electrode 130b from contacting other members.

[0226] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 16C. Figure 16A is a schematic side view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Figure 16B is a schematic top view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Figure 16C is a schematic side view of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0227] As shown in FIG. 16A, the first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c protrude from a first main surface 110m1 of the housing 110 in the -Z direction, and the second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d extend from a second main surface 110m2 of the housing 110 in the +Z direction.

[0228] Here, electrode protection member 118 extends in the -Z direction from the +Y direction end and the -Y direction end on the +X direction side of each of first principal surface 110m1 and second principal surface 110m2. Here, electrode protection member 118 has protection portion 118a, protection portion 118b, protection portion 118c, and protection portion 118d.

[0229] The protective portion 118a extends in the -Z direction from the end portion on the -Y direction side on the +X direction side of the first major surface 110m1. The protective portion 118a faces the first electrode 130a. In the Y direction, the first electrode 130a faces the protective portion 118a. The length of the protective portion 118a relative to the first major surface 110m1 is greater than the length of the first electrode 130a relative to the first major surface 110m1.

[0230] Moreover, the protective portion 118c extends in the -Z direction from the end portion on the +Y direction side on the +X direction side of the first major surface 110m1. The protective portion 118c faces the third electrode 130c. In the Y direction, the third electrode 130c is positioned opposite the protective portion 118c. The length of the protective portion 118c relative to the first major surface 110m1 is greater than the length of the third electrode 130c relative to the first major surface 110m1.

[0231] The protective portion 118b extends in the +Z direction from the end portion on the -Y direction side on the +X direction side of the second major surface 110m2. The protective portion 118b faces the second electrode 130b. In the Y direction, the second electrode 130b is positioned opposite the protective portion 118b. The length of the protective portion 118b relative to the second major surface 110m2 is greater than the length of the second electrode 130b relative to the second major surface 110m2.

[0232] The protective portion 118d extends in the +Z direction from the end portion on the +Y direction side of the second major surface 110m2 on the +X direction side. The protective portion 118d faces the fourth electrode 130d. In the Y direction, the fourth electrode 130d is positioned opposite the protective portion 118d. The length of the protective portion 118d relative to the second major surface 110m2 is greater than the length of the fourth electrode 130d relative to the second major surface 110m2.

[0233] As shown in FIG. 16B, the housing 110 is provided with a connector mounting portion 110c. A connector is mounted to the connector mounting portion 110c. The connector mounting portion 110c is located between a third side surface 110s3 and a fourth side surface 110s4. The connector mounting portion 110c extends in the -X direction. Therefore, the connector is mounted to the connector mounting portion 110c by moving the connector along the +X direction relative to the connector mounting portion 110c.

[0234] 16C, the protective portion 118c protrudes in an annular shape from the first main surface 110m1. When the discharge device 100 is viewed in a plan view from the -Y direction, the first electrode 130a appears to be surrounded by the annular protective portion 118a. Similarly, the protective portion 118b protrudes in an annular shape from the second main surface 110m2. When the discharge device 100 is viewed in a plan view from the -Y direction, the second electrode 130b appears to be surrounded by the annular protective portion 118b.

[0235] 16C, the third electrode 130c and the protective portion 118c are similar to the first electrode 130a and the protective portion 118a, and the fourth electrode 130d and the protective portion 118d are similar to the second electrode 130b and the protective portion 118b.

[0236] 15 to 16C, the height of electrode protection member 118 relative to first main surface 110m1 and / or second main surface 110m2 of housing 110 is greater than the height of the opposing electrode 130, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The height of electrode protection member 118 may be approximately the same as the height of the opposing electrode 130, or may be smaller than the height of the opposing electrode 130.

[0237] 1B, the discharge device 100 generates ions in the first air passage Wp1 and the second air passage Wp2 through which air flows separately from each other, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The air passages Wp through which ions are generated by the discharge device 100 may be connected to each other.

[0238] Next, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 17C. Figures 17A to 17C are schematic diagrams of the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0239] 17A, discharge device 100 is disposed at a position where it generates ions in each of first air passage Wp1 and second air passage Wp2. In discharge device 100, first electrode 130a generates ions in first air passage Wp1, and second electrode 130b generates ions in second air passage Wp2. Here, housing 110 is disposed between first air passage Wp1 and second air passage Wp2.

[0240] The downstream of the first air passage Wp1 and the downstream of the second air passage Wp2 communicate with each other. More specifically, the downstream of the first air passage Wp1 and the downstream of the second air passage Wp2 communicate with the common air passage Wp3a.

[0241] The wind flowing through the first air passage Wp1 passes through the first electrode 130a and flows into the common air passage Wp3a. The wind flowing through the second air passage Wp2 passes through the second electrode 130b and flows into the common air passage Wp3a. Therefore, both the ions generated at the first electrode 130a and the ions generated at the second electrode 130b flow into the common air passage Wp3a.

[0242] 17B, ​​the downstream of the first air passage Wp1 communicates with the upstream of the second air passage Wp2. In particular, the upstream of the first air passage Wp1 communicates with the upstream of the second air passage Wp2 with the common air passage Wp3b.

[0243] Therefore, a part of the wind that has flowed through the common air passage Wp3b flows into the first air passage Wp1 and flows through the first air passage Wp1 together with the ions generated at the first electrode 130a. Another part of the wind that has flowed through the common air passage Wp3b flows into the second air passage Wp2 and flows through the second air passage Wp2 together with the ions generated at the second electrode 130b.

[0244] The discharge device 100 of the present embodiment may be mounted on the air blowing device 200. In this case, the discharge device 100 generates ions in the wind output from the air blowing device 200. The air blowing device 200 sends the ions generated in the discharge device 100 to the outside.

[0245] Next, a blower device 200 including the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 18B. Figures 18A and 18B are schematic diagrams of the blower device 200 including the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0246] 18A, air blower device 200 includes discharge device 100, wind generating section 210, and air passage 220. At least a portion of discharge device 100 is disposed in air passage 220. For example, first electrode 130a and second electrode 130b of discharge device 100 are disposed in air passage 220.

[0247] The wind generating section 210 generates wind. Here, the wind generated in the wind generating section 210 flows along an air passage 220. The wind generating section 210 includes a fan.

[0248] Air passage 220 includes first air passage 220a and second air passage 220b. Second air passage 220b is located in a different location from first air passage 220a, and air flowing through second air passage 220b does not flow through first air passage 220a.

[0249] Air passage 220 further includes a common air passage 220c in addition to first air passage 220a and second air passage 220b. Common air passage 220c is located at least one of upstream and downstream of first air passage 220a and second air passage 220b.

[0250] 18A, common air passage 220c is located upstream of first air passage 220a and second air passage 220b. Also, wind generation section 210 is located in common air passage 220c.

[0251] A part of the wind generated in wind generation section 210 flows from common air passage 220c to first air passage 220a. Another part of the wind generated in wind generation section 210 flows from common air passage 220c to second air passage 220b.

[0252] The cross-sectional area of ​​common air passage 220c along the airflow direction may be larger than the cross-sectional areas of first air passage 220a and second air passage 220b along the airflow direction. In one example, the cross-sectional area of ​​common air passage 220c along the airflow direction is approximately equal to the sum of the cross-sectional areas of first air passage 220a and second air passage 220b along the airflow direction and the cross-sectional area of ​​the installation portion of housing 110.

[0253] 18A, the first air passage 220a and the second air passage 220b are shaped to be airflow generated in a common airflow generating section 210, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The first air passage 220a and the second air passage 220b may be shaped to be airflow generated in different airflow generating sections.

[0254] 18B, blower device 200 includes discharge device 100, first wind generation section 210a, second wind generation section 210b, and wind passage 220. Wind passage 220 includes first wind passage 220a and second wind passage 220b. Second wind passage 220b is located at a different location from first wind passage 220a, and wind flowing through second wind passage 220b does not flow through first wind passage 220a. Here, first wind passage 220a and second wind passage 220b are arranged parallel to each other.

[0255] At least a portion of the discharge device 100 is disposed in the air passage 220. For example, in the discharge device 100, the first electrode 130a is disposed in the first air passage 220a, and the second electrode 130b is disposed in the second air passage 220b.

[0256] The first wind generating section 210a is disposed in the first wind passage 220a. The first wind generating section 210a generates wind. The wind generated in the first wind generating section 210a flows along the first wind passage 220a toward the downstream of the first wind passage 220a. The first wind generating section 210a includes a fan.

[0257] The second wind generation section 210b is disposed in the second wind passage 220b. The second wind generation section 210b generates wind. The wind generated in the second wind generation section 210b flows along the second wind passage 220b toward the downstream of the second wind passage 220b. The second wind generation section 210b includes a fan.

[0258] According to the present embodiment, ions can be easily generated in each of first air passage 220a and second air passage 220b by discharge device 100. For example, discharge device 100 may be mounted on a hair dryer.

[0259] Next, a dryer 300 including the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1A to 19B. Fig. 19A is a schematic external view of the dryer 300 including the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Fig. 19B is a schematic view of the dryer 300 including the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. The dryer 300 may be used to dry a person's hair. The dryer 300 is also called a hair dryer.

[0260] 19A and 19B, dryer 300 has blower device 200, grip portion 310, main body portion 320, suction port 330, heater 340, air outlet 350, and power switch 360. Suction port 330 is located at one end of main body portion 320, and air outlet 350 is located at another end of main body portion 320. An air passage from suction port 330 to air outlet 350 is provided in main body portion 320.

[0261] Here, grip portion 310 is located on the -Y direction side with respect to main body portion 320. Grip portion 310 is used to be held by a user.

[0262] Suction port 330 is located on the −X direction side of main body 320. Air is sucked into main body 320 through suction port 330.

[0263] The blower 200 and the heater 340 are housed in the main body 320. The blower 200 is located in a path from the suction port 330 to the blower 350 in the main body 320. The blower 200 generates wind that flows through an air path from the suction port 330 to the blower 350. The blower 200 sucks wind into the main body 320 from the suction port 330, and the wind flowing through the main body 320 is blown out to the outside from the blower 350. The heater 340 heats the wind generated by the blower 200.

[0264] The air outlet 350 is located on the +X direction side of the main body 320. The air inside the main body 320 is blown out from the air outlet 350.

[0265] The air outlet 350 has a first air outlet 350a and a second air outlet 350b. The first air outlet 350a is located on one side of the main body 320, and the second air outlet 350b is located on the other side of the main body 320. For example, the first air outlet 350a is located on the +X direction side and the -Z direction side of the main body 320, and the second air outlet 350b is located on the +X direction side and the +Z direction side of the main body 320.

[0266] The air blower 200 includes the discharge device 100, an airflow generating section 210, and an airflow path 220. The airflow generating section 210 is located upstream of the heater 340 in the airflow path 220.

[0267] Air passage 220 includes common air passage 220c, first air passage 220a, and second air passage 220b. Common air passage 220c is located upstream of first air passage 220a and second air passage 220b. Heater 340 is disposed in common air passage 220c.

[0268] First air passage 220a is located between common air passage 220c and air outlet 350. In particular, first air passage 220a is located between common air passage 220c and first air outlet 350a.

[0269] Second air passage 220b is located between common air passage 220c and air outlet 350. In particular, second air passage 220b is located between common air passage 220c and second air outlet 350b.

[0270] Ions can be generated in the first air passage 220a and the second air passage 220b by the discharge device 100. At least a portion of the first electrode 130a of the discharge device 100 is located in the first air passage 220a. At least a portion of the second electrode 130b of the discharge device 100 is located in the second air passage 220b.

[0271] In this embodiment, the dryer 300 can output air from the first air outlet 350a and the second air outlet 350b. This allows the hair to be dried quickly while suppressing damage to the hair. Furthermore, the discharge device 100 in the dryer 300 can generate ions, which can coat the surface of the hair and moisturize the hair.

[0272] In addition, in FIG. 19, the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment is mounted on the dryer 300, but the discharge device 100 may also be mounted on an air conditioner.

[0273] Next, an air conditioner 400 equipped with the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1A to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a schematic diagram of the air conditioner 400 equipped with the discharge device 100 of the present embodiment. Here, the air conditioner 400 functions as a so-called air purifier.

[0274] 20, the air conditioner 400 includes a discharge device 100, a housing 410, a deodorizing filter 430, a dust collecting filter 440, an air blower 450, and an airflow separating section 460. The discharge device 100, the deodorizing filter 430, the dust collecting filter 440, the air blower 450, and the airflow separating section 460 are accommodated within the housing 410.

[0275] The outside and the inside of housing 410 communicate with each other via pre-filter 422 of rear panel 420. Housing 410 also has ventilation passage 425, air outlet 425C, and air outlet 425D. Air outlet 425C is provided facing forward at the top of housing 410, and air outlet 425D is provided facing rearward and upward at the top of housing 410. Air outlet 425C and air outlet 425D communicate with the inside and the outside of housing 410.

[0276] Air around the housing 410 is drawn into the housing 410 through the pre-filter 422. The ventilation passage 425 is an air passage provided inside the housing 410. The air drawn into the housing 410 by the blower 450 is then drawn into the ventilation passage 425. The air drawn into the ventilation passage 425 passes through the ventilation passage 425. The air that has passed through the ventilation passage 425 is blown out in a forward direction from the outlet 425C and in a rearward and upward direction from the outlet 425D. It has been described that the air around the housing 410 is drawn into the housing 410 through the pre-filter 422 of the rear panel 420. However, as long as the air is drawn into the housing 410, the housing 410 and the rear panel 420 may have any structure. For example, the housing 410 may be provided with a through-hole (not shown) for drawing in the surrounding air. Also, for example, the pre-filter 422 may not be provided.

[0277] The blower 450 is disposed inside the ventilation passage 425 and generates an air flow. The blower 450 is configured, for example, by a centrifugal fan such as a sirocco fan. The blower 450 draws in air from the blower rear region 425A of the ventilation passage 425 and blows the air to the blower upper region 425B of the ventilation passage 425. When the blower 450 operates, the air present around the housing 410 is drawn into the housing 410. The air drawn into the housing 410 passes through the ventilation passage 425 and is blown out to the outside of the housing 410. As a result, the air present around the housing 410 is replaced with air that has passed through the deodorizing filter 430 and the dust collecting filter 440 inside the air conditioner 400.

[0278] The dust collection filter 440 is disposed in the blower rear region 425A, and passes the airflow generated by the blower 450 to capture particles contained in the air. The air in which the trapped particles have been contained is blown out to the outside of the air conditioner 400. As a result, the air existing around the air conditioner 400 is replaced with the air in which the particles have been trapped. The particles captured by the dust collection filter 440 include, for example, fine dust and microparticles such as PM2.5 having a particle size smaller than a predetermined particle size (for example, 3 μm), as described above. The dust collection filter 440 includes, for example, a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter made of nonwoven fabric formed into a paper-like shape.

[0279] Deodorizing filter 430 is disposed behind dust collecting filter 440 in blower rear area 425A. Like dust collecting filter 440, deodorizing filter 430 also passes airflow generated by blower 450 and captures odors contained in the air. Deodorizing filter 430 is made of, for example, polyester nonwoven fabric with activated carbon evenly distributed therein. Odor components captured by deodorizing filter 430 include, for example, acetaldehyde, ammonia, and acetic acid.

[0280] When blower 450 is driven, it draws in air present outside housing 410 to generate a first airflow F1. The air present outside housing 410 becomes first airflow F1 and flows into ventilation path 425 via pre-filter 422. The air that flows into ventilation path 425 passes through deodorizing filter 430 and dust collecting filter 440, becomes second airflow F2 toward blower 450, and then becomes third airflow F3 toward the inside of blower 450.

[0281] The air sucked into the blower 450 becomes a fourth airflow F4 heading toward the blower upper region 425B, and moves to the blower upper region 425B. The air that has moved to the blower upper region 425B becomes a fifth airflow F5 heading toward the airflow separation section 460, and moves to the airflow separation section 460. The air that has moved to the airflow separation section 460 is separated into a sixth airflow F6 heading toward the outlet 425C, and a seventh airflow F7 heading toward the outlet 425D. The air that has moved to the outlet 425C as the sixth airflow F6 is blown out from the outlet 425C to the outside of the housing 410. The air that has moved to the outlet 425D as the seventh airflow F7 is blown out from the outlet 425D to the outside of the housing 410.

[0282] In this embodiment, the discharge device 100 is disposed in the airflow separation section 460. The first electrode 130a and the third electrode 130c of the discharge device 100 generate ions in the air of the sixth airflow F6. The second electrode 130b and the fourth electrode 130d of the discharge device 100 generate ions in the air of the seventh airflow F7. This makes it possible to easily generate ions in the air blown out from different air outlets.

[0283] Although a hair dryer and an air conditioner have been described with reference to Figures 19A to 20 as specific examples of electronic devices incorporating the discharge device 100 of this embodiment, it goes without saying that the electronic devices incorporating the discharge device 100 of this embodiment are not limited to hair dryers and air conditioners.

[0284] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented in various aspects without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components across different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings are mainly shown schematically for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may differ from the actual ones due to the convenience of drawing. In addition, the material, shape, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are only examples and are not particularly limited, and various changes are possible within a range that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0285] The present invention is applicable to a discharge device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0286] 100 Discharge device 110 Cabinet 120 Voltage Generation Unit 130a 1st electrode 130b 2nd electrode 130c 3rd electrode 130d 4th electrode 140 Circuit Board 142 circuits 150 Electrode Substrate 152 Induction electrode

Claims

1. A housing and A voltage generating unit disposed within the housing; a first electrode protruding from the housing in a first direction and receiving a voltage from the voltage generating unit; a second electrode protruding from the housing in a second direction different from the first direction and to which a voltage is applied from the voltage generating unit; A discharge device comprising:

2. The discharge device according to claim 1 , wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are applied with voltages of the same polarity from the voltage generating unit.

3. The housing has a plurality of surfaces exposed to the outside, The plurality of surfaces include: a first surface through which the first electrode penetrates; a second surface through which the second electrode penetrates; The discharge device of claim 1 .

4. The first electrode is a first linear portion extending from the first surface to an outside of the housing; a tip portion that is located at an end portion on the first direction side with respect to the first linear portion and is thinner than the first linear portion; having The second electrode is a second linear portion extending from the second surface to an outside of the housing; a tip portion that is located at an end portion on the second direction side with respect to the second linear portion and is thinner than the second linear portion; The discharge device according to claim 3 .

5. The discharge device of claim 3, wherein the length of the first electrode from the first surface to the tip located outside the housing is 80% or more and 120% or less of the length of the second electrode from the second surface to the tip located outside the housing.

6. a third electrode that protrudes from the housing in the first direction on the first surface of the housing and to which a voltage having a polarity different from that of the first electrode is applied from the voltage generating unit; a fourth electrode that protrudes from the housing in the second direction on the second surface of the housing and to which a voltage having a polarity different from that of the second electrode is applied from the voltage generating unit; The discharge device of claim 3 further comprising:

7. The plurality of surfaces include: The first surface is a first main surface; The second surface is opposite to the first main surface. a plurality of side surfaces provided between the first main surface and the second main surface; The discharge device according to claim 3 .

8. the plurality of surfaces further include an inclined surface that is continuous with one of the first main surface and the second main surface and at least one of the plurality of side surfaces; The discharge device according to claim 7 , wherein the inclined surface is inclined with respect to one of the first main surface and the second main surface and at least one of the plurality of side surfaces.

9. The aspects include: a first side surface having a longitudinal direction in a second reference direction intersecting a first reference direction in which the first main surface and the second main surface face each other; a second side surface connected to the first side surface, the second side surface being connected to a third reference direction intersecting the first reference direction and the second reference direction as a longitudinal direction; a third side surface that is connected to the second side surface and has a longitudinal direction in the second reference direction; a fourth side surface connected to the third side surface and the first side surface, the fourth side surface being connected to the third reference direction as a longitudinal direction; having a length in the third reference direction of each of the second side surface and the fourth side surface is greater than a length in the second reference direction of each of the first side surface and the third side surface, The discharge device according to claim 8 , wherein the inclined surface is continuous with one of the first main surface and the second main surface and at least one of the second side surface and the fourth side surface.

10. The discharge device according to claim 9 , wherein the housing is provided on the third side surface with a connector attachment portion to which a connector for inputting an input voltage to the voltage generating portion can be attached.

11. The discharge device according to claim 1 , further comprising a circuit board disposed within the housing, the circuit board having the first electrode and the second electrode provided thereon.

12. The housing includes: a housing portion that houses the voltage generating portion and the circuit board; A lid for covering the storage portion; The discharge device according to claim 11 ,

13. The discharge device according to claim 11 , further comprising an insulating member disposed within the housing and covering a portion of each of the first electrode, the second electrode and the circuit board.

14. the housing portion is provided with a hole through which the first electrode passes, The discharge device according to claim 12 , wherein at least a portion of the first electrode contacts an inner periphery of the hole in the housing portion.

15. the voltage generating unit has a boost circuit including a transformer that boosts an input voltage; The discharge device according to claim 11 , wherein the boost circuit has a first output terminal electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode.

16. The discharge device according to claim 15 , wherein the boost circuit further has a second output terminal electrically connected to the induction electrode.

17. The discharge device according to claim 1 , further comprising an electrode protection member protruding from a periphery of at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode to an outside of the housing.

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