Humidifying device and air cleaning device

Abstract

To make it possible to determine abnormal humidification caused by a humidifying filter.SOLUTION: A humidifying device (100) comprises: a humidifying filter (127) capable of being immersed in liquid stored in a tray (122); a drive part (130) capable of rotating the humidifying filter so that it is displaced between an immersion position at which the humidifying filter (127) is immersed in the liquid (LQ) stored in the tray (122), and a non-immersion position at which the humidifying filter (127) is not immersed in the liquid (LQ) stored in the tray, when the humidifying filter (127) is in a normal state; and a determination part (180) for determining whether or not the humidifying filter (127) is in an abnormal state in which it is immersed in the liquid (LQ) stored in the tray (122) regardless of its rotation position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a humidifying device and an air cleaning device.

Background Art

[0002] A humidifying device is used to adjust the humidity of a predetermined space. The humidifying device can humidify air by vaporizing water from a humidifying filter.

[0003] There is known a humidifier that can switch between a humidifying mode for performing humidification and a cleaning mode for not performing humidification (see Patent Document 1). In the humidifier described in Patent Document 1, in the humidifying mode, the flow path adjusting member performs humidification by switching the flow path of the air blown from the blowing unit toward the humidifying filter that has absorbed the water supplied to the water tank. Further, in the humidifier described in Patent Document 1, in the cleaning mode, the flow path adjusting member switches the air blown from the blowing unit toward a clean air discharge port different from the humidifying filter. Furthermore, in the dryer mode of the humidifier of Patent Document 1, by switching the flow path adjusting member to a position between the position in the humidifying mode and the position in the cleaning mode, the humidifying filter and the humidifying filter are dried by the air blown from the blowing unit. Thus, the humidifier of Patent Document 1 switches between the humidifying mode, the cleaning mode, and the drying mode by the flow path adjusting member switching the flow path of the air blown from the blowing unit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the humidifier described in Patent Document 1, the humidifying filter absorbs the water in the water tank until the water in the water tank dries up. In this case, the deterioration of the humidifying filter will progress. In particular, in the humidifier of Patent Document 1, when the power is turned off during the execution of the drying mode after the humidifying mode, the deterioration of the humidifying filter will progress. Thus, in the humidifier described in Patent Document 1, when there is water in the tank, not only can the humidification by the humidifying filter not be stopped, but it is also impossible to recognize that the humidification by the humidifying filter has been stopped.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a humidifying device and an air purifying device capable of determining abnormal humidification by a humidifying filter.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a humidifying device includes a tray capable of storing a liquid, a humidifying filter immersible in the liquid stored in the tray, an immersion position where the humidifying filter immerses in the liquid stored in the tray when the humidifying filter is in a normal state, a drive unit capable of rotating the humidifying filter so as to displace between the immersion position and a non-immersion position where the humidifying filter does not immerse in the liquid stored in the tray, and a determination unit for determining whether or not it is an abnormal state in which the humidifying filter immerses in the liquid of the tray regardless of the rotation position of the humidifying filter.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, an air purifying device includes the humidifying device described above and an ion generation unit for generating ions with respect to the air that has passed through the humidifying filter.

Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, abnormal humidification by a humidifying filter can be determined.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Figure 13B

Figure 13C

Figure 13D

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Figure 15B

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MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, the humidifying device and the air purifying device of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description will not be repeated. For the convenience of explanation, a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system (X, Y, Z) is appropriately shown in the drawings. In the drawings, the X-axis and the Y-axis are parallel to the horizontal direction, and the Z-axis is parallel to the vertical direction.

[0012] First, referring to FIG. 1, the humidifying device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the humidifying device 100 according to the present embodiment. The humidifying device 100 humidifies air by a vaporization method.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the humidifying device 100 includes a housing 102 and an operation unit 140. For example, the outer shape of the housing 102 is substantially rectangular parallelepiped.

[0014] The operation unit 140 is disposed on the upper surface 102a of the housing 102. The operation unit 140 receives an input for operating the humidifying device 100. For example, the operation unit 140 is in the form of a panel. Further, the operation unit 140 may have a display unit for displaying the state of the humidifying device 100.

[0015] The air outlet 102f is disposed on the upper surface 102a of the housing 102. Air or wind blows out from the air outlet 102f.

[0016] Next, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 1 in the humidifying device 100 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 shows a side cross-sectional view of the humidifying device 100. In FIG. 2, the air flow is indicated by a white arrow.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 2, in addition to the housing 102, the humidifying device 100 further includes a deodorizing filter 104, a dust collecting filter 106, a blower unit 110, a humidifying unit 120, and a driving unit 130. In FIG. 2, the operation unit 140 is omitted.

[0018] The housing 102 houses a deodorizing filter 104, a dust collecting filter 106, a blower unit 110, a humidifying unit 120, and a drive unit 130.

[0019] The suction port 102s is disposed on the back surface 102b of the housing 102. Air is sucked into the housing 102 from the suction port 102s.

[0020] The deodorizing filter 104 is disposed downstream of the suction port 102s. The deodorizing filter 104 is disposed to face a plurality of suction ports 102s. The deodorizing filter 104 adsorbs odor components in the air. The odor components are, for example, acetaldehyde, ammonia, or acetic acid. The deodorizing filter 104 is disposed to face a plurality of suction ports 102s. The deodorizing filter 104 has, for example, a configuration in which activated carbon is dispersed and held in a non-woven fabric, and adsorbs or removes odor components in the ventilation air.

[0021] The dust collecting filter 106 is disposed downstream of the suction port 102s. The dust collecting filter 106 is disposed to face a plurality of suction ports 102s via the deodorizing filter 104. The dust collecting filter 106 collects or removes fine dust in the ventilation air. The dust collecting filter 106 is, for example, a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter.

[0022] Inside the housing 102, an air duct PS that connects a plurality of suction ports 102s and a blowout port 102f is formed. By the blower unit 110, air is sucked from a plurality of suction ports 102s and blown out from the blowout port 102f.

[0023] The air duct PS includes a first air duct PS1 from a plurality of suction ports 102s to the blower unit 110 and a second air duct PS2 from the blower unit 110 to the blowout port 102f. The second air duct PS2 is located downstream of the first air duct PS1.

[0024] The housing 102 has a wall surface 102p that defines the first air duct PS1 and a wall surface 102q that defines the second air duct PS2.

[0025] The air supply unit 110 is disposed within the housing 102. The air supply unit 110 sends out the air upstream of the air supply path PS toward the downstream.

[0026] The air supply unit 110 includes a fan 112 and a fan motor 114. By rotating, the fan 112 sends out the air on the upstream side of the air supply path PS with respect to the fan 112 toward the downstream side of the air supply path PS with respect to the fan 112. The fan motor 114 drives the fan 112 to rotate the fan 112.

[0027] The humidifying unit 120 is disposed within the housing 102. The humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air within the housing 102. Specifically, the humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air on the air supply path PS within the housing 102. Here, the humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air on the first air path PS1 within the housing 102.

[0028] The humidifying unit 120 includes a tray 122, a pair of shaft support portions 124, a rotating shaft 125, a humidifying filter 127, and a holder 128. Here, the humidifying filter 127 is held by the holder 128. The humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 constitute a humidifying filter unit 126. The humidifying filter unit 126 is disposed on the air supply path PS. The humidifying filter unit 126 can rotate about the rotation axis AX.

[0029] The tray 122 stores the liquid LQ. The tray 122 is disposed at the bottom of the housing 102 corresponding to the humidifying filter 127. The tray 122 stores the liquid LQ absorbed by the humidifying filter 127. The tray 122 is made of, for example, synthetic resin.

[0030] The pair of shaft support portions 124 extend upward from the upper portions of the pair of side walls of the tray 122. Each of the pair of shaft support portions 124 includes, for example, a support 124a having a U-shaped or circular shape. The support 124a may be, for example, a bearing.

[0031] The rotating shaft 125 penetrates the humidifying filter unit 126. The rotating shaft 125 is rotatably supported by a pair of supports 124a. The rotating shaft 125 is arranged on the rotation axis line AX. The rotating shaft 125 has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0032] The pair of shaft supports 124 rotatably support the rotating shaft 125 about the rotation axis line AX. That is, the pair of shaft supports 124 rotatably support the humidifying filter unit 126 about the rotation axis line AX via the rotating shaft 125.

[0033] The rotating shaft 125 may be fixed to the pair of shaft supports 124. In this case, the rotating shaft 125 rotatably supports the humidifying filter unit 126 about the rotation axis line AX. That is, the rotating shaft 125 rotatably supports the holder 128. In this case, it is preferable that the holder 128 has a bearing at the rotation center. The rotating shaft 125 is fixed to the rotation center of the humidifying filter unit 126. Specifically, the rotating shaft 125 is fixed to the rotation center of the holder 128.

[0034] The humidifying filter 127 has liquid absorbency and air permeability. The humidifying filter 127 absorbs the liquid LQ in the tray 122. Also, air passes through the humidifying filter 127. Therefore, the liquid LQ absorbed by the humidifying filter 127 evaporates and is contained in the air passing through the humidifying filter 127. In this way, the humidifying filter 127 functions as a vaporizing filter.

[0035] The holder 128 holds the humidifying filter 127. The holder 128 has a substantially disk shape and is made of, for example, synthetic resin.

[0036] The humidifying filter 127 is arranged downstream of the suction port 102s, the deodorizing filter 104, and the dust collecting filter 106 in the air flow in the air supply path PS. Specifically, the humidifying filter 127 is arranged between the air supply unit 110 and the suction port 102s.

[0037] A part of the humidifying filter 127 is located in the tray 122 and immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122. Specifically, when the liquid LQ at a predetermined liquid level LV is stored in the tray 122, a part of the humidifying filter 127 is located in the tray 122 and immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122. For example, the liquid LQ is water. Note that the liquid LQ may be water added with a predetermined component.

[0038] The humidifying filter 127 rotates about the rotation axis AX. A part of the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122. By the blower unit 110, the air in the room where the humidifying device 100 is installed is sucked from the suction port 102s into the liquid LQ absorbed by the humidifying filter 127. Therefore, the liquid LQ absorbed by the humidifying filter 127 evaporates into the air passing through the humidifying filter 127. Then, by the blower unit 110, the air containing the evaporated liquid LW is blown out from the blowout port 102f toward the room where the humidifying device 100 is installed. In this way, the air in the room where the humidifying device 100 is installed is humidified.

[0039] The holder 128 includes a substantially annular frame body 128a and a ring gear 128x. The ring gear 128x is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the frame body 128a in a circumferential direction.

[0040] The drive unit 130 is disposed in the housing 102. The drive unit 130 drives the humidification by the humidifying unit 120. The drive unit 130 abuts on the peripheral edge of the holder 128 and rotates the humidifying filter unit 126 in the circumferential direction.

[0041] The drive unit 130 includes a drive gear 132 and a motor 134. The rotation axis of the drive gear 132 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis AX. The motor 134 drives the drive gear 132 to rotate the drive gear 132.

[0042] The drive gear 132 meshes with the ring gear 128x. Therefore, when the drive gear 132 rotates by the motor 134, the holder 128 rotates about the rotation axis AX. Accordingly, together with the holder 128, the humidifying filter 127 rotates about the rotation axis AX. When the drive gear 132 rotates by the motor 134, the humidifying filter unit 126 rotates about the rotation axis AX.

[0043] Note that the drive unit 130 may include a roller instead of the drive gear 132. Note that the humidifying device 100 may not have the rotating shaft 125. For example, a plurality of rotating bodies may be arranged in the tray 122, and the plurality of rotating bodies may rotatably support the humidifying filter unit 126.

[0044] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, the humidifying filter 127 in the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the humidifying filter 127 in the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3, the humidifying filter 127 includes a part of a substantially circular shape. The humidifying filter 127 has a through hole 127c extending on the rotation axis AX (FIG. 2).

[0046] The humidifying filter 127 has a pleated structure. Specifically, the humidifying filter 127 has a shape in which a sheet material is folded in a bellows shape. The humidifying filter 127 has a zigzag shape in a side cross-sectional view. Thereby, the surface area of the humidifying filter 127 can be increased, and the liquid content of the humidifying filter 127 can be increased.

[0047] Note that the humidifying filter 127 does not have to be bellows-shaped and may have other shapes. For example, the humidifying filter 127 may have a honeycomb structure.

[0048] The shape of the humidifying filter 127 includes a part of a substantially circular shape. In the present embodiment, the outer shape of the humidifying filter 127 has a substantially D shape when viewed from the front. In the present embodiment, viewing from the front means viewing the object from the direction in which the rotation axis AX (FIG. 2) extends.

[0049] Note that the shape of the humidifying filter 127 may include the entire substantially circular shape. For example, the humidifying filter 127 may have a substantially disk shape. Regarding the shape of the humidifying filter 127, the "circular shape" may be a substantially perfect circular shape or a substantially elliptical shape as long as it includes a curved shape.

[0050] According to the present embodiment, by the shape of the humidifying filter 127 including a part or the whole of a substantially circular shape, it is possible to provide a humidifying filter 127 suitable for a humidifying device 100 that sucks liquid into the humidifying filter 127 while rotating the humidifying filter 127.

[0051] The first direction D1 intersects the second direction D2. In the present embodiment, the first direction D1 is substantially orthogonal to the second direction D2. The second direction D2 indicates the extending direction of the fold of the humidifying filter 127.

[0052] Next, referring to FIG. 4, the humidifying filter unit 126 in the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the humidifying filter unit 126 in the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment. Note that in FIG. 4, the ring gear 128x is simplified.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4, the humidifying filter unit 126 has a humidifying filter 127 and a holder 128. The humidifying filter 127 is held by the holder 128.

[0054] The holder 128 includes a frame body 128a, a plurality of first reinforcing members 128b, a second reinforcing member 128c, a shaft insertion portion 128d, and a non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e.

[0055] The frame body 128a extends annularly in the circumferential direction CD. The frame body 128a covers the peripheral edge portion 127g of the humidifying filter 127.

[0056] The shaft insertion portion 128d has a substantially cylindrical shape and is inserted into the through hole 127c of the humidifying filter 127. The rotating shaft 125 (FIG. 2) is inserted into the shaft insertion portion 128d. In the present embodiment, the rotating shaft 125 is fixed to the shaft insertion portion 128d. Note that the shaft insertion portion 128d may have a bearing without the rotating shaft 125 being fixed to the shaft insertion portion 128d.

[0057] The plurality of first reinforcing members 128b extend radially around the shaft insertion portion 128d. The plurality of first reinforcing members 128b are connected to the frame body 128a. As a result, the frame body 128a is reinforced by the plurality of first reinforcing members 128b.

[0058] The second reinforcing member 128c has a substantially annular shape and connects the plurality of first reinforcing members 128b. As a result, the plurality of first reinforcing members 128b are reinforced by the second reinforcing member 128c.

[0059] The non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is a portion of the holder 128 that does not face the humidifying filter 127 and does not contribute to liquid absorption. The non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e has a substantially flat plate shape and a substantially arcuate shape.

[0060] The humidifying filter unit 126 rotates about the rotation axis AX shown in FIG. 2 in the humidifying device 100.

[0061] Typically, when the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidifying mode, the drive unit 130 continues to rotate the humidifying filter unit 126. The drive unit 130 may rotate the humidifying filter unit 126 clockwise and counterclockwise. In this case, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 for a predetermined period, and then lifted from the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. When the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, the humidifying filter 127 absorbs the liquid LQ. Therefore, the humidifying filter 127 that has absorbed the liquid LQ humidifies the air passing through the air passage PS.

[0062] However, when the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidifying mode, the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e may be stationary above the tray 122 (Fig. 2). Specifically, the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e is located above the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. Also in this case, the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ and humidifies the air passing through the air passage PS.

[0063] On the other hand, when the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode, the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e is stationary within the tray 122. Specifically, the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. The non-liquid-absorbing part 128e blocks the communication between the liquid LQ in the tray 122 and the humidifying filter 127. Therefore, the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ and does not humidify the air passing through the air passage PS.

[0064] Next, with reference to Figs. 1 to 5, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V of Fig. 1 in the humidifying device 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 5, the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is located above the upper surface of the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122, and the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. Fig. 5 is an example when the humidifying filter 127 is located at the immersion position.

[0066] The humidifying device 100 further includes a liquid supply container 160. The liquid supply container 160 is attachable to the housing 102. When the liquid supply container 160 is attached to the housing 102, the liquid supply container 160 is connected to the tray 122. At this time, the liquid supply container 160 supplies the liquid LQ to the tray 122.

[0067] The liquid supply container 160 supplies liquid to the tray 122 so that the liquid LQ in the tray 122 reaches a predetermined liquid level LV. When the liquid supply container 160 becomes empty, the liquid in the tray 122 decreases without being supplied with liquid.

[0068] The humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 are separated from the bottom surface 122a of the tray 122. Therefore, the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 rotate while being separated from the bottom surface 122a of the tray 122. Specifically, the peripheral edge 127g of the humidifying filter 127 and the frame body 128a of the holder 128 rotate while being separated from the bottom surface 122a of the tray 122.

[0069] The bottom surface 122a of the tray 122 is curved along the circumferential direction CD of the humidifying filter 127 in a front cross-sectional view. Therefore, when the liquid LQ in the tray 122 decreases, the liquid LQ accumulates at the lowermost part of the bottom surface 122a.

[0070] When the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidifying mode, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is located above the tray 122. Specifically, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is located above the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. For this reason, the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ, and the humidifying filter 127 humidifies the air passing through the air passage PS.

[0071] Next, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view in which the humidifying filter unit 126 of the humidifying device 100 in FIG. 5 is inverted about the rotation axis AX.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 6, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is located in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. FIG. 6 is an example when the humidifying filter 127 is located at the non-immersed position.

[0073] When the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is located in the tray 122. Specifically, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. In this case, since the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ, the humidifying filter 127 does not humidify the air passing through the air passage PS.

[0074] Note that, as described above, when the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidifying mode, the driving unit 130 may continuously rotate the humidifying filter unit 126. In this case, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 for a predetermined period and then lifted from the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. Therefore, the humidifying filter 127 humidifies the air passing through the air passage PS.

[0075] Here, the driving unit 130 rotates the humidifying filter unit 126 in the circumferential direction CD, so that the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 and humidifies the air passing through the air passage PS.

[0076] Note that the driving unit 130 does not necessarily rotate the humidifying filter unit 126 in the circumferential direction CD. For example, the driving unit 130 may rotate the humidifying filter unit 126 between the immersion position shown in FIG. 5 and the non-immersion position shown in FIG. 6. For example, when the humidifying device 100 switches from the humidifying mode to the non-humidifying mode, the driving unit 130 may drive the humidifying filter unit 126 clockwise to rotate from the immersion position shown in FIG. 5 to the non-immersion position shown in FIG. 6. Also, when the humidifying device 100 switches from the non-humidifying mode to the humidifying mode, the driving unit 130 may drive the humidifying filter unit 126 counterclockwise to rotate from the non-immersion position shown in FIG. 6 to the immersion position shown in FIG. 5.

[0077] Note that, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the humidifying filter 127 is disposed rotatably. Also, when the humidifying filter 127 is in a normal state, the humidifying filter 127 is displaced between an immersion position where it is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 and a non-immersion position where the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. However, when the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state, the humidifying filter 127 may be immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 regardless of the rotation position of the humidifying filter 127. For example, when the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state, the humidifying filter 127 may be immersed in the liquid LQ even at the non-immersion position where a normal humidifying filter 127 would not be immersed in the liquid LQ.

[0078] In the above description with reference to FIGS. 2 to 6, the humidifying filter 127 is held by the holder 128, and the humidifying filter unit 126 is composed of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128. However, the present embodiment is not limited to this. The humidifying filter 127 may be penetrated by the rotating shaft 125 and supported by the shaft support portion 124 without being held by the holder 128. In this case, the driving gear 132 of the driving unit 130 engages with the peripheral edge portion 127g of the humidifying filter 127, so that the humidifying filter 127 may rotate.

[0079] Also, in the humidifying device 100, the humidifying filter unit 126 may be replaceable due to deterioration. When replacing the humidifying filter unit 126, if the installation of the new humidifying filter unit 126 is misaligned, even if the humidifying filter 127 is in the non-immersion position, the immersion of the liquid LQ into the humidifying filter 127 may not be stopped. For example, if the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is damaged by an impact on the holder 128, the immersion of the liquid LQ into the humidifying filter 127 may not be stopped.

[0080] Alternatively, usually, the humidifying filter unit 126 is designed to be driven according to the intended driving mode of the humidifying device 100, but the humidifying filter unit 126 may be configured not to be driven according to the intended driving mode of the humidifying device 100. In this case, even if the humidifying filter unit 126 is mounted on the housing 102 of the humidifying device 100 and the humidifying filter 127 is in the non-immersion position, the immersion of the liquid LQ into the humidifying filter 127 may not be stopped.

[0081] According to the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the immersion of the humidifying filter 127 into the liquid LQ in the tray 122 can be stopped. In other words, the humidifying device 100 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ even though the humidifying filter 127 is in the non-immersion position.

[0082] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 7, the humidifying device 100 includes a blower unit 110, a humidifying unit 120, a drive unit 130, an operation unit 140, and a control device 180. The control device 180 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, and the operation unit 140.

[0084] The blower unit 110 blows out air from the upstream to the downstream of the air passage PS.

[0085] The humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air inside the housing 102. Specifically, the humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air on the air passage PS inside the housing 102.

[0086] The drive unit 130 drives the humidification by the humidifying unit 120. The drive unit 130 drives the humidifying unit 120 so that the humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air passing through the air passage PS of the housing 102. Further, the drive unit 130 drives the humidifying unit 120 so that the humidifying unit 120 does not humidify the air passing through the air passage PS of the housing 102.

[0087] The operation unit 140 receives the operation of the operator. The operation unit 140 may have a touch panel for receiving the operation of the operator. Alternatively, the operation unit 140 may have buttons for receiving the operation of the operator.

[0088] The operation unit 140 receives an operation for selecting a mode. For example, the operation unit 140 receives an operation for selecting a humidification mode. Further, the operation unit 140 receives an operation for selecting a non-humidification mode. Alternatively, the operation unit 140 receives an operation for switching between the humidification mode and the non-humidification mode. Note that the non-humidification mode may include a stop mode for stopping the drive of the humidifying device 100. Or, the non-humidification mode may include a mode different from the humidification mode for driving the humidifying device 100. In one example, the non-humidification mode may include a blowing mode in which the humidifying device 100 blows air without performing humidification.

[0089] Further, the operation unit 140 may have an indicator that displays the mode that has received the operation. For example, when the operation unit 140 receives an operation to select the humidification mode, it may have a lighting unit that indicates that the humidification mode has been selected. Alternatively, when the operation unit 140 receives an operation to select the non-humidification mode, it may have a lighting unit that indicates that the non-humidification mode has been selected. Or, when the operation unit 140 receives an operation to turn on the switch of the humidifying device 100, it may have a lighting unit that indicates that the switch of the humidifying device 100 has been turned on.

[0090] For example, the control device 180 is composed of a microcontroller (microcontroller: microcomputer).

[0091] The control device 180 has a control unit 182 and a storage unit 184. The control unit 182 includes a Central Processing Unit (CPU).

[0092] The storage unit 184 includes a memory. The memory includes a Read Only Memory (ROM) and a Random Access Memory (RAM).

[0093] By the CPU executing a predetermined control program stored in the ROM, the blowing unit 110, the driving unit 130, and / or the operation unit 140 are operated.

[0094] The control device 180 determines whether or not it is an abnormal state in which the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 regardless of the rotational position of the humidifying filter 127. In one example, the control device 180 determines whether or not it is an abnormal state in which the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 in the non-humidification mode. In this specification, the control device 180 is an example of a determination unit.

[0095] Note that whether the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state may be determined based on the detection result of detecting whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 in the non-humidifying mode.

[0096] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment. The humidifying device 100 in FIG. 8 has the same configuration as the above description with reference to FIG. 7 except that it further includes a detection unit 150, and redundant descriptions will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 8, the humidifying device 100 includes a blower unit 110, a humidifying unit 120, a drive unit 130, an operation unit 140, a detection unit 150, and a control device 180. The control device 180 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, the operation unit 140, and the detection unit 150.

[0098] The detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127. In one example, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode. Alternatively, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in both the non-humidifying mode and the humidifying mode.

[0099] For example, the detection unit 150 may detect the humidity that changes as the liquid is vaporized from the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode. Alternatively, the detection unit 150 may detect the state of the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e that prevents the humidifying filter 127 from being immersed in the liquid LQ of the tray 122 in the humidifying filter unit 126. In one example, the detection unit 150 may detect whether the shape of the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is abnormal.

[0100] Alternatively, the detection unit 150 may detect the liquid supplied to the humidifying filter 127. For example, the detection unit 150 may detect the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. In one example, the detection unit 150 may detect the amount of the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 or the weight of the tray 122.

[0101] Alternatively, the detection unit 150 may detect a liquid supply container 160 (Fig. 6) that supplies the liquid LQ to the tray 122. In one example, the detection unit 150 may detect the amount of the liquid LQ in the liquid supply container 160 or the weight of the liquid supply container 160.

[0102] Based on the detection result of the detection unit 150, the control device 180 determines whether or not it is an abnormal state in which the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 in the non-humidifying mode.

[0103] Next, with reference to Figs. 1 to 9, the operation method of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 is a flowchart of the operation method of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment.

[0104] As shown in Fig. 9, in step S102, it is determined whether or not the humidifying device 100 is in the humidifying mode. Typically, the control device 180 determines whether or not the humidifying mode is selected in the operation unit 140.

[0105] For example, when the operator selects the humidifying mode in the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is in the humidifying mode. Alternatively, when the operator selects the non-humidifying mode in the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is not in the humidifying mode. For example, when the operator selects a mode other than the humidifying mode in the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is in the non-humidifying mode. Or, when the operator performs an operation to stop the drive of the humidifying device 100 in the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is in the non-humidifying mode.

[0106] If it is determined that the mode is the humidifying mode (Yes in step S102), the process proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode is not the humidifying mode (No in step S102), the process proceeds to step S122.

[0107] In step S112, the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidifying mode. For example, the control device 180 drives the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130 in the humidifying mode. In one example, by the control device 180 controlling the blower unit 110, air flows from the suction port 102s to the blowout port 102f within the housing 102.

[0108] Also, by the control device 180 controlling the drive unit 130, the humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air flowing through the air passage PS of the housing 102.

[0109] For example, while the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidifying mode, the drive unit 130 may continue to rotate the humidifying filter unit 126. When the humidifying filter unit 126 rotates, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 for a predetermined period, and then is lifted from the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. In this case, since the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ of the tray 122, the humidifying filter 127 humidifies the air passing through the air passage PS.

[0110] Note that when the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidifying mode, the drive unit 130 may rotate the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is not immersed in the liquid LQ of the tray 122 and then stop. Also in this case, since the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ of the tray 122, the humidifying unit 120 can humidify the air flowing through the air passage PS of the housing 102.

[0111] In this way, the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidifying mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0112] In step S122, the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode. For example, the control device 180 controls the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130 in the non-humidifying mode.

[0113] In one example, when the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode, the driving unit 130 rotates the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 to stop rotating.

[0114] For example, in the stop mode, the control device 180 stops the driving of the air blowing unit 110 and the driving unit 130. In this case, the control device 180 stops the driving of the air blowing unit 110 in the stop mode. The driving unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0115] Alternatively, the control device 180 drives the air blowing unit 110 and the driving unit 130 in a driving mode different from the humidifying mode. For example, in another driving mode, the air blowing unit 110 blows air from the upstream to the downstream of the air blowing path PS. The driving unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0116] In the above manner, the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

[0117] In step S124, it is determined whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode. For example, the control device 180 determines whether the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122 in the non-humidifying mode. In one example, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode. In this case, the control device 180 determines whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150.

[0118] For example, after the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode in step S122, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode. In this case, the control device 180 determines whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the non-humidifying mode.

[0119] Alternatively, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in both the non-humidifying mode and the humidifying mode. For example, after the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode in step S122, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode. In this case, the control device 180 determines whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the non-humidifying mode and the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the previously detected humidifying mode.

[0120] For example, the detection unit 150 may detect the humidity that changes as the liquid is vaporized from the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode. Alternatively, the detection unit 150 may detect the state of the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 that holds the humidifying filter 127 and prevents the liquid in the tray 122 from immersing the humidifying filter 127.

[0121] In step S124, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode (Yes in step S124), the process proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode (No in step S124), the process proceeds to step S142.

[0122] In step S126, it is notified that humidification cannot be stopped. The control device 180 may control the operation unit 140 to display on the operation unit 140 that humidification cannot be stopped.

[0123] In one example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification has not stopped even though it is in the non-humidification mode. For example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification is being performed even though the non-humidification mode is selected. Alternatively, the operation unit 140 notifies that the humidification mode cannot be selected. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0124] In step S142, it is determined whether to end the drive. For example, when the operator operates the operation unit 140 to turn off the power, the control device 180 determines to end the drive. Or, when the power supply voltage is no longer supplied to the humidifying device 100, the control device 180 determines to end the drive.

[0125] Or, after the operator selects the stop mode in the operation unit 140 in step S102, if the operator does not perform any further operations on the operation unit 140 for a predetermined period, the control device 180 determines to end the drive.

[0126] Alternatively, when the operator selects another mode in the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines not to end the drive. Or, when the operator does not perform an operation to turn off the power on the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines not to end the drive.

[0127] If it is determined not to end the drive (No in step S142), the process returns to step S102. On the other hand, if it is determined to end the drive (Yes in step S142), the process ends.

[0128] As described above, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment operates. According to the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment, it is determined whether the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode. Thereby, it can be determined whether humidification can be stopped even when the liquid LQ is stored in the tray 122. Also, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to notify that humidification is being performed in the non-humidification mode.

[0129] According to this embodiment, the humidifying device 100 includes a tray 122, a humidifying filter 127, a driving unit 130, a detection unit 150, and a control device 180 that functions as a determination unit. The tray 122 stores the liquid LQ. The humidifying filter 127 can be immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. The driving unit 130 rotates the humidifying filter 127 to an immersion position in the case of a humidifying mode in which humidification is performed from the humidifying filter 127 immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122, and to a non-immersion position in the case of a non-humidifying mode in which humidification is not performed from the humidifying filter 127 without the humidifying filter 127 being immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. The detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode. The determination unit determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150. Thereby, it is possible to determine the stop of humidification by the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode.

[0130] Note that the detection unit 150 may detect humidity, and the control device 180 may determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the humidity. Typically, the detection unit 150 may detect the humidity inside the housing 102. In this case, the control device 180 may determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detected humidity.

[0131] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10, the humidifying device 100 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the humidifying device 100 of this embodiment. The humidifying device 100 in FIG. 10 has the same configuration as the above description with reference to FIG. 8 except that the detection unit 150 has a humidity detection unit 150a, and redundant descriptions are omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0132] As shown in FIG. 10, the detection unit 150 has a humidity detection unit 150a. The humidity detection unit 150a detects the humidity inside the housing 102.

[0133] Based on the detection result of the humidity detection unit 150a, the control device 180 determines whether the humidification filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode. For example, if the non-humidification mode continues, when the humidification filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ, the humidity detected by the humidity detection unit 150a will decrease. On the other hand, when the abnormal humidification filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode, the humidity detected by the humidity detection unit 150a will increase.

[0134] Also, when the humidification filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode, when switching from the non-humidification mode to the humidification mode, the humidity detected by the humidity detection unit 150a changes from a low value to a high value. On the other hand, when the abnormal humidification filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode, even when switching from the non-humidification mode to the humidification mode, the humidity detected by the humidity detection unit 150a remains high and does not change much.

[0135] Conversely, when switching from the humidification mode to the non-humidification mode, when the humidification filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode, the humidity detected by the humidity detection unit 150a changes from a high value to a low value. On the other hand, when the humidification filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode, even when switching from the humidification mode to the non-humidification mode, the humidity detected by the humidity detection unit 150a remains high and does not change much.

[0136] In addition, when the control device 180 determines that the humidification filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode, the operation unit 140 may display that fact. In this way, the control device 180 controls the operation unit 140 based on the detection result of the humidity detection unit 150a.

[0137] In the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment, the detection unit 150 includes a humidity detection unit 150a that detects the humidity in the non-humidification mode. Therefore, based on the humidity detected by the humidity detection unit 150a, it can be determined whether the humidification filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode.

[0138] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is the same as the above description with reference to FIG. 2 except that the humidity detection unit 150a is illustrated, and redundant descriptions are omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0139] As shown in FIG. 11, in the humidifying device 100, the humidity detection unit 150a is disposed inside the housing 102. The humidity detection unit 150a is located downstream of the humidifying filter 127 in the air blowing path PS of the air passing through the humidifying filter 127. Here, the humidity detection unit 150a is disposed at a position facing the humidifying filter unit 126 on the wall surface 102q that defines the second air path PS2 from the blowing unit 110 to the air outlet 102f.

[0140] According to the present embodiment, the humidity detection unit 150a is located downstream of the humidifying filter 127 in the air blowing path PS of the air passing through the humidifying filter 127. Therefore, the humidity detection unit 150a can accurately detect the humidification state of the humidifying filter 127.

[0141] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12, the operation method of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the operation method of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 12 is the same as the above description with reference to FIG. 9 except that it determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode after starting driving based on the result of mode determination, and redundant descriptions are omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 12, it is determined in step S102 whether the mode is the humidifying mode. Typically, the control device 180 determines whether the mode selected in the operation unit 140 is the humidifying mode.

[0143] For example, when the operator selects the humidification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is the humidification mode. Alternatively, when the operator selects the non-humidification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is not the humidification mode.

[0144] For example, when the operator selects the non-humidification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is not the humidification mode. Also, when the operator selects a mode other than the humidification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is the non-humidification mode. Alternatively, when the operator performs an operation to stop the drive of the humidifying device 100 at the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines that it is the non-humidification mode.

[0145] When it is determined that the mode is the humidification mode (Yes in step S102), the process proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, when it is determined that the mode is not the humidification mode (No in step S102), the process proceeds to step S122.

[0146] In step S112, the humidifying device 100 is driven in the humidification mode. For example, the control device 180 drives the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130 in the humidification mode. In one example, by the control device 180 controlling the blower unit 110, air flows from the suction port 102s to the blowout port 102f inside the housing 102.

[0147] Also, by the control device 180 controlling the drive unit 130, the humidification filter 127 of the humidifying unit 120 rotates around the rotation shaft 125. Thereby, the air flowing through the air passage PS of the housing 102 is humidified. Then, the process proceeds to step S113.

[0148] In step S113, the humidity detection unit 150a detects the humidity inside the housing 102. The control device 180 controls the humidity detection unit 150a so that the humidity detection unit 150a detects the humidity. Then, the process proceeds to step S114.

[0149] In step S114, it is determined whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode. For example, the control device 180 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ when it later enters the non-humidifying mode. Typically, the humidity detection unit 150a determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in a subsequent non-humidifying mode based on the detection result in step S113 of the humidifying mode and the detection result of the humidity detection unit 150a in the previously detected non-humidifying mode.

[0150] If it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode (Yes in step S114), the process proceeds to step S116. On the other hand, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode (No in step S114), the process proceeds to step S142.

[0151] In step S116, a notification is made that humidification cannot be stopped. The control device 180 may control the operation unit 140 to display on the operation unit 140 that humidification cannot be stopped.

[0152] In one example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification is not stopped even when changing to the non-humidifying mode. For example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification is being performed even when the non-humidifying mode is selected. Alternatively, the operation unit 140 notifies that the humidifying mode cannot be selected. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0153] In step S122, the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode. The humidifying device 100 is driven to stop humidification in the non-humidifying mode.

[0154] For example, in the non-humidifying mode, the control device 180 controls the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130. Specifically, when the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode, the drive unit 130 rotates the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 to stop rotating.

[0155] In one example, in the stop mode, the control device 180 stops the driving of the blower unit 110 and the driving of the drive unit 130. In this case, the control device 180 stops the driving of the blower unit 110 in the stop mode. The drive unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0156] Alternatively, the control device 180 drives the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130 in a drive mode different from the humidifying mode. For example, the control device 180 drives the blower unit 110 in another drive mode. The drive unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0157] As described above, the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S123.

[0158] In step S123, the humidity detection unit 150a detects the humidity inside the housing 102. The control device 180 controls the humidity detection unit 150a so that the humidity detection unit 150a detects the humidity. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

[0159] In step S124, it is determined whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode. For example, the control device 180 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122 in the non-humidifying mode. In one example, based on the detection result in step S123 of the non-humidifying mode and the detection result of the humidity detection unit 150a in the previously detected humidifying mode, the humidity detection unit 150a determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode.

[0160] In step S124, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode (Yes in step S124), the process proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode (No in step S124), the process proceeds to step S142.

[0161] In step S126, it is notified that humidification cannot be stopped. The control device 180 may control the operation unit 140 to display on the operation unit 140 that humidification cannot be stopped.

[0162] In one example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification has not stopped in the non-humidifying mode. For example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification is being performed even when the non-humidifying mode is selected. Alternatively, the operation unit 140 notifies that the humidifying mode cannot be selected. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0163] In step S142, it is determined whether or not to end the drive. The control device 180 determines whether or not to end the drive based on the operation result of the operation unit 140 or the power supply voltage.

[0164] For example, when the operator operates to turn off the power on the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines to end the drive. Alternatively, when the power supply voltage is not supplied to the humidifying device 100, the control device 180 determines to end the drive.

[0165] Alternatively, when the operator selects another mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines not to end the drive. Or, when the operator does not operate at the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines not to end the drive.

[0166] When it is determined not to end the drive (No in step S142), the process returns to step S102. On the other hand, when it is determined to end the drive (Yes in step S142), the process ends.

[0167] In the above manner, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment operates. According to the present embodiment, it can be determined that the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122. Also, according to the present embodiment, it can be notified that humidification is not stopped even in the non-humidifying mode.

[0168] Next, with reference to FIGS. 13A to 13F, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 13A is a graph showing the change in humidity when the non-humidifying mode in which the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ continues. FIG. 13B is a graph showing the change in humidity when the non-humidifying mode in which the humidifying filter 127 cannot be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ continues.

[0169] As shown in FIG. 13A, in the non-humidifying mode, when the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ, humidification from the humidifying filter 127 is stopped. In this case, the humidity detection unit 150a indicates a relatively low humidity.

[0170] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13B, even in the non-humidifying mode, when the humidifying filter 127 cannot be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ, humidification from the humidifying filter 127 to the air passage PS is not stopped. In this case, the humidity detection unit 150a indicates a relatively high humidity.

[0171] Therefore, by comparing the humidity in the non-humidifying mode, it is possible to determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ. As a result, the humidifying device 100 can determine whether or not it is possible to execute the desired operation of stopping humidification in the non-humidifying mode.

[0172] Note that whether or not the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ can be determined based on the change in humidity when switching between the humidifying mode and the non-humidifying mode.

[0173] FIG. 13C is a graph showing the change in humidity when switching from the non-humidifying mode in which the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ to the humidifying mode. FIG. 13D is a graph showing the change in humidity when switching from the non-humidifying mode in which the humidifying filter 127 cannot be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ to the humidifying mode.

[0174] As shown in FIG. 13C, when the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode, the humidity is relatively low. Thereafter, when switching from the non-humidifying mode to the humidifying mode, the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ, and the humidifying filter 127 humidifies the air flowing through the air passage PS. Therefore, the humidity indicated by the humidity detection unit 150a increases with the passage of time.

[0175] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13D, when the humidifying filter 127 cannot be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode, the humidity is relatively high. Therefore, even when switching from the non-humidifying mode to the humidifying mode, the humidity indicated by the humidity detection unit 150a remains high and does not change so much.

[0176] Thus, based on the change in humidity when switching between the non-humidifying mode and the humidifying mode, it is possible to determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ. As a result, the humidifying device 100 can determine whether or not it is possible to execute the desired operation of stopping humidification in the non-humidifying mode.

[0177] Whether or not the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ may be determined based on the change in humidity when switching from the humidifying mode to the non-humidifying mode.

[0178] FIG. 13E is a graph showing the change in humidity when switching from the humidifying mode to the non-humidifying mode in which the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ. FIG. 13F is a graph showing the change in humidity when switching from the humidifying mode to the non-humidifying mode in which the humidifying filter 127 cannot be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ.

[0179] As shown in FIG. 13E, in the case of the humidifying mode, since the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ, the humidity is relatively high. Thereafter, when switching from the humidifying mode to the non-humidifying mode in which the humidifying filter 127 can be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ, the humidifying filter 127 no longer immerses in the liquid LQ. Therefore, the humidity indicated by the humidity detection unit 150a decreases with the passage of time.

[0180] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13F, in the case of the humidifying mode, since the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ, the humidity is relatively high. Thereafter, even when switching from the humidifying mode to the non-humidifying mode in which the humidifying filter 127 cannot be stopped from being immersed in the liquid LQ, the humidifying filter 127 continues to be immersed in the liquid LQ. Therefore, the humidity indicated by the humidity detection unit 150a remains high without decreasing despite the passage of time.

[0181] Thus, whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode can be determined based on the change in humidity when switching from the humidifying mode to the non-humidifying mode.

[0182] Note that the shape of the humidifying filter 127 or the holder 128 may be different from the above-described form. For example, the control device 180 may detect a non-genuine product in which there is no non-immersion position in the humidifying filter and the humidifying filter is immersed regardless of the position to which the humidifying filter is rotated, as an abnormal state of the humidifying filter 127.

[0183] Note that, as described above with reference to FIGS. 2 to 6, the humidifying filter 127 may be held by the holder 128, and the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 may block the communication between the liquid LQ in the tray 122 and the humidifying filter 127. However, if the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is different from what is assumed, even when the humidifying filter 127 is in the non-immersed position, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e cannot block the communication between the liquid LQ in the tray 122 and the humidifying filter 127.

[0184] For example, if the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is damaged, the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e cannot block the communication between the liquid LQ in the tray 122 and the humidifying filter 127. Alternatively, if a through-hole is provided in the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e, the communication between the liquid LQ in the tray 122 and the humidifying filter 127 cannot be blocked. In this case, the control device 180 may determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the sensor.

[0185] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 14 is a block diagram of the humidifying device 100. The humidifying device 100 in FIG. 14 has the same configuration as the above description with reference to FIG. 8 except that the detection unit 150 has a sensor 150b for detecting the shape of the holder 128, and redundant descriptions will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0186] As shown in FIG. 14, the detection unit 150 has a sensor 150b. The sensor 150b detects whether or not the shape of the holder 128 is a predetermined shape. Here, the object to be detected by the sensor 150b is the holder 128. For example, the sensor 150b detects whether or not the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is in the assumed position in accordance with the rotation of the holder 128 by the drive unit 130. By the sensor 150b detecting that the shape of the holder 128 is a predetermined shape, it is possible to detect damage such as holes or cracks in the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e. Therefore, the control device 180 can determine whether or not it is an abnormal state in which the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 in the non-humidifying mode.

[0187] Note that the sensor 150b may detect whether or not the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is located close to the sensor 150b. Alternatively, the sensor 150b may measure the distance between the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 and detect whether or not the measured distance matches a pre-assumed distance.

[0188] In the present embodiment, the humidifying device 100 includes a holder 128 that holds a humidifying filter 127. The detection unit 150 includes a sensor 150b that detects whether or not the shape of the holder 128 is a predetermined shape. Further, the holder 128 has a non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e that prevents the humidifying filter 127 from being immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 at the non-immersion position. Since the sensor 150b can detect whether or not the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is in a predetermined shape, the control device 180 can determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the sensor 150b.

[0189] As described above, the sensor 150b may detect whether or not the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e is located close to the sensor 150b. Alternatively, the sensor 150b may measure the distance between the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e and detect whether or not the measured distance matches a pre-assumed distance.

[0190] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 15B, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIGS. 15A and 15B are block diagrams of the humidifying device 100.

[0191] As shown in FIG. 15A, the detection unit 150 has a proximity sensor 150b1 as a sensor 150b. The proximity sensor 150b1 detects whether an object is nearby. Here, the object to be detected by the proximity sensor 150b1 is the holder 128. The proximity sensor 150b1 detects whether the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e is within a predetermined distance. The proximity sensor 150b1 detects whether the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is within a supposed predetermined distance according to the rotation of the holder 128 by the driving unit 130. Thereby, the proximity sensor 150b1 can detect whether the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e is within a predetermined distance.

[0192] For example, the proximity sensor 150b1 detects whether there is a period during which the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the rotating holder 128 exists at a predetermined proximity. Since the proximity sensor 150b1 can detect whether the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 has a predetermined shape, the control device 180 can determine whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the proximity sensor 150b1.

[0193] As shown in FIG. 15B, the detection unit 150 has a distance measuring sensor 150b2 as a sensor 150b. The distance measuring sensor 150b2 measures the distance to the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e and detects whether the measured distance matches a previously assumed distance. Here, the object to be detected by the distance measuring sensor 150b2 is the holder 128. The distance measuring sensor 150b2 detects whether the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is at an assumed distance according to the rotation of the holder 128 by the driving unit 130. Thereby, the distance measuring sensor 150b2 measures the distance to the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128.

[0194] Since the distance measuring sensor 150b2 can detect whether the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 has a predetermined shape, the control device 180 can determine whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the distance measuring sensor 150b2.

[0195] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 16, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment. FIG. 16 is the same as the above description with reference to FIG. 2 except that the sensor 150b is illustrated, and redundant descriptions will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0196] As shown in FIG. 16, in the humidifying device 100, the sensor 150b is disposed inside the housing 102. The sensor 150b is disposed to face the humidifying filter unit 126. The sensor 150b detects the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128.

[0197] Here, the sensor 150b is disposed at a position facing the humidifying filter unit 126 on the inner surface of the tray 122. The sensor 150b detects the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 that is located above the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. Note that the sensor 150b may detect the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 that is located within the liquid LQ in the tray 122.

[0198] Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 17, the operation method of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart of the operation method of the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 17 is the same as the above description with reference to FIG. 8 except that the holder 128 is detected before determining whether it is in the humidifying mode in step S102, and redundant descriptions will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0199] As shown in FIG. 17, in step S101a, when the operation of the humidifying device 100 starts, the drive unit 130 causes the humidifying filter unit 126 to rotate for a trial. The control device 180 rotates the humidifying filter unit 126 before the start of the drive. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 101b.

[0200] In step S101b, when the humidifying filter unit 126 rotates for a trial, the sensor 150b detects the holder 128. The sensor 150b detects whether the holder 128 that holds the humidifying filter 127 has a shape different from the assumed shape.

[0201] For example, sensor 150b detects the proximity of holder 128. Alternatively, sensor 150b detects the distance from holder 128.

[0202] In the above manner, sensor 150b detects holder 128. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S102.

[0203] Determine whether the mode is the humidification mode in step S102. For example, when the operator selects the humidification mode on operation unit 140, control device 180 determines that it is the humidification mode.

[0204] If it is determined that the mode is the humidification mode (Yes in step S102), the process proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode is not the humidification mode (No in step S102), the process proceeds to step S122.

[0205] In step S112, humidifier 100 is driven in the humidification mode. For example, control device 180 drives blower unit 110 and drive unit 130 in the humidification mode. In one example, by control device 180 controlling blower unit 110, air flows from suction port 102s to blowout port 102f within housing 102.

[0206] Also, by control device 180 controlling drive unit 130, humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air flowing through air passage PS of housing 102. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0207] In step S122, humidifier 100 is driven in the non - humidification mode. Humidifier 100 is driven to stop humidification in the non - humidification mode.

[0208] For example, in the non-humidifying mode, the control device 180 controls the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130. Specifically, when the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode, the drive unit 130 rotates the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 to stop rotating.

[0209] In one example, in the stop mode, the control device 180 stops the driving of the blower unit 110 and the driving of the drive unit 130. In this case, the control device 180 stops the driving of the blower unit 110 in the stop mode. The drive unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0210] Alternatively, the control device 180 drives the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130 in a drive mode different from the humidifying mode. For example, the control device 180 drives the blower unit 110 in another drive mode. The drive unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0211] As described above, the humidifying device 100 is driven in the non-humidifying mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

[0212] In step S124, it is determined whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode. For example, the control device 180 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122 in the non-humidifying mode. In one example, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the non-humidifying mode. The control device 180 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150.

[0213] For example, based on the detection result of the sensor 150b in step S101b, the control device 180 determines whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode.

[0214] In step S124, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode (Yes in step S124), the process proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode (No in step S124), the process proceeds to step S142.

[0215] In step S126, it is notified that humidification cannot be stopped. The control device 180 may control the operation unit 140 to display on the operation unit 140 that humidification cannot be stopped.

[0216] In one example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification has not stopped despite being in the non-humidifying mode. For example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification is being performed despite the non-humidifying mode being selected. Alternatively, the operation unit 140 notifies that the humidifying mode cannot be selected. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0217] In step S142, it is determined whether to end the drive. For example, when the operator operates to turn off the power on the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines to end the drive. Or, when the power supply voltage is no longer supplied to the humidifying device 100, the control device 180 determines to end the drive.

[0218] As described above, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment operates. According to the present embodiment, based on the detection result of the sensor 150b, it is determined whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidifying mode. Therefore, it can be determined whether humidification can be stopped in the non-humidifying mode.

[0219] In the above description with reference to FIGS. 1 to 17, the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment humidifies and blows air, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. In the present embodiment, in addition to humidifying and blowing air, bacteria and / or viruses may be reduced.

[0220] Next, with reference to FIGS. 18 to 20, an air purifying device 200 including the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the air purifying device 200 including the humidifying device 100 of the present embodiment. FIG. 18 has the same configuration as the above-described humidifying device 100 with reference to FIG. 2, except that the air purifying device 200 further includes an ion generation unit 210, and redundant descriptions will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0221] As shown in FIG. 18, the air purifying device 200 of the present embodiment includes an ion generation unit 210 in addition to the humidifying device 100. The ion generation unit 210 generates ions toward the air duct PS.

[0222] Here, the ion generation unit 210 is disposed on the wall surface 102q that defines the second air duct PS2 in the humidifying device 100. The ion generation unit 210 generates ions toward the second air duct PS2.

[0223] The ion generation unit 210 may operate in conjunction with the air blowing unit 110 and the drive unit 130. In this case, the air purifying device 200 can reduce bacteria and / or viruses together with humidification.

[0224] The ion generation unit 210 may operate in conjunction with the air blowing unit 110 without driving the drive unit 130. Thereby, the air purifying device 200 can reduce bacteria and / or viruses without performing humidification.

[0225] As described above, the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment includes the humidifier 100 and the ion generator 210 described above. The ion generator 210 generates ions with respect to the air that has passed through the humidification filter 127. Thereby, the air purifier 200 can efficiently reduce bacteria and / or viruses.

[0226] Next, with reference to FIG. 19, the air purifier 200 including the humidifier 100 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 19 is a block diagram of the air purifier 200 according to the present embodiment.

[0227] As shown in FIG. 19, the air purifier 200 includes an ion generator 210 and a control device 280.

[0228] The control device 280 is configured by, for example, a microcontroller (microcomputer: microcontroller). The control device 280 includes the control device 180 of the humidifier 100 shown in FIG. 7. The control device 280 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, the operation unit 140, the detection unit 150, and the ion generator 210.

[0229] The control device 280 has a control unit 282 and a storage unit 284. The control unit 282 includes a Central Processing Unit (CPU). The control unit 282 includes the control unit 182 of the humidifier 100 shown in FIG. 7.

[0230] The storage unit 284 includes a memory. The memory includes a Read Only Memory (ROM) and a Random Access Memory (RAM). The storage unit 284 includes the storage unit 284 of the humidifier 100 shown in FIG. 7.

[0231] By the CPU executing a predetermined control program stored in the ROM, the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, and / or the operation unit 140 are operated.

[0232] The ion generation unit 210 has a pair of electrodes. For example, one of the pair of electrodes emits positive ions by discharging. The positive ions are cluster ions (H + ) in which a plurality of water molecules are clustered around a hydrogen ion (H + (H 2 O) m (m is an arbitrary positive number greater than or equal to zero)). Further, for example, the other of the pair of electrodes emits negative ions by discharging. The negative ions are cluster ions (O 2 - ) in which a plurality of water molecules are clustered around an oxygen ion (O 2 - (H 2 O) n (n is an arbitrary positive number greater than or equal to zero)).

[0233] When emitting positive and negative ions, the greater the distance between the electrode that emits positive ions and the electrode that emits negative ions, the greater the amount of ions emitted from each electrode increases.

[0234] Each of the emitted positive and negative ions surrounds, for example, mold bacteria floating in the air and causes a chemical reaction on the surface of the mold bacteria. Hydroxyl radicals (·OH) of active species are generated by the chemical reaction. And the mold bacteria are removed by the action of the hydroxyl radicals (·OH).

[0235] Next, with reference to FIG. 20, the air purifying apparatus 200 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 20 is a flowchart of an operation method of the air purifying apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment.

[0236] As shown in FIG. 20, the mode is determined in step S102a. For example, the control device 280 determines whether the mode is any one of a humidification mode, an air purification mode, and a stop mode. Thereafter, the control device 280 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, the detection unit 150, and / or the ion generation unit 210 based on the determined mode.

[0237] In one example, when the operator selects the humidification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the humidification mode. When the operator selects the air purification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the air purification mode. Alternatively, when the operator performs an operation to stop the driving of the air purifier 200 at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the stop mode.

[0238] When the control device 280 determines that it is the humidification mode (humidification mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S112. When the control device 280 determines that it is the air purification mode (air purification mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S122a. On the other hand, when the control device 280 determines that it is the stop mode (stop mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S132.

[0239] In step S112, the air purifier 200 is driven in the humidification mode. For example, in the humidification mode, the control device 280 drives the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130. By the control device 280 controlling the blower unit 110, air flows into the housing 102. Also, by the control device 280 controlling the drive unit 130, the humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air flowing through the housing 102. Note that in the humidification mode, the control device 280 may drive the ion generation unit 210 in addition to the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130.

[0240] In this way, the air purifier 200 is driven in the humidification mode. Then, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0241] In step S122a, the air purifier 200 is driven in the air purification mode. For example, in the air purification mode, the control device 280 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, and the ion generation unit 210.

[0242] In one example, when the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the air purification mode, the driving unit 130 rotates the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 to stop the rotation thereof.

[0243] For example, the air blowing unit 110 blows out air from the upstream to the downstream of the air blowing path PS. The ion generation unit 210 generates ions toward the air blowing path PS. The driving unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0244] In the above manner, the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the air purification mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

[0245] In step S124, it is determined whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the air purification mode. For example, the control device 180 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122 in the air purification mode. In one example, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the air purification mode. The control device 280 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ based on the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the air purification mode.

[0246] For example, after the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the air purification mode in step S122a, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the air purification mode. In this case, the control device 280 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the non-humidification mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the air purification mode.

[0247] Alternatively, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the air cleaning mode and the humidifying mode. For example, after the air cleaner 200 is driven in the air cleaning mode in step S122, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the air cleaning mode. In this case, the control device 280 determines whether the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the air cleaning mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the air cleaning mode and the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the previously detected humidifying mode.

[0248] In step S124, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the air cleaning mode (Yes in step S124), the process proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ in the air cleaning mode (No in step S124), the process proceeds to step S142.

[0249] In step S126, it is notified that humidification has not stopped even though the air cleaning mode is on. For example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification is being performed even though the air cleaning mode is selected. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0250] In step S132, the air cleaner 200 is driven in the stop mode. For example, in the stop mode, the control device 280 controls to stop the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, and the ion generation unit 210 that have been driven so far.

[0251] For example, the control device 280 stops the driving of the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, and the ion generation unit 210 in the stop mode. In this case, the control device 280 stops the driving of the blower unit 110 and the ion generation unit 210 in the stop mode. After driving the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, the drive unit 130 stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0252] As described above, the air purifier 200 is driven in the stop mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S134.

[0253] In step S134, it is determined whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the stop mode. For example, the control device 180 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122 in the stop mode. In one example, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the stop mode. The control device 280 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the stop mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150.

[0254] For example, after the air purifier 200 is driven in the stop mode in step S132, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the stop mode. In this case, the control device 280 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the stop mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the stop mode.

[0255] Alternatively, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the stop mode and the humidifying mode. For example, after the air purifier 200 is driven in the stop mode in step S132, the detection unit 150 detects the state of the humidifying filter 127 in the stop mode. In this case, the control device 280 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the stop mode based on the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the stop mode and the detection result of the detection unit 150 in the previously detected humidifying mode.

[0256] In step S134, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the stop mode (Yes in step S134), the process proceeds to step S136. On the other hand, if it is determined that the humidifying filter 127 is not immersed in the liquid LQ in the stop mode (No in step S134), the process proceeds to step S142.

[0257] In step S136, it is notified that humidification has not stopped despite being in the stop mode. For example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification is being performed despite the stop mode being selected. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0258] In step S142, it is determined whether to end the drive. For example, when the operator operates the operation unit 140 to turn off the power, the control device 280 determines to end the drive. Or, when the power supply voltage is no longer supplied to the air purifier 200, the control device 280 determines to end the drive.

[0259] Alternatively, when the operator selects yet another mode on the operation unit 140, the control device 180 determines not to end the drive. Or, when the operator does not operate the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines not to end the drive.

[0260] When it is determined not to end the drive (No in step S142), the process returns to step S102a. On the other hand, when it is determined to end the drive (Yes in step S142), the process ends.

[0261] As described above, the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment operates. According to the present embodiment, it can be determined that the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ in both the air purification mode and the stop mode. According to the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment, it can be determined whether humidification can be stopped even when the liquid LQ is stored in the tray 122.

[0262] Note that the detection unit 150 may detect the liquid supplied to the humidifying filter 127. For example, the detection unit 150 may detect the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122. In one example, the detection unit 150 may detect the amount of the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 or the weight of the tray 122.

[0263] Alternatively, the detection unit 150 may detect the liquid supply container 160 (Fig. 6) that supplies the liquid LQ to the tray 122. In one example, the detection unit 150 may detect the amount of the liquid LQ in the liquid supply container 160 or the weight of the liquid supply container 160.

[0264] Next, with reference to Figs. 21 to 23, the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 21 is a block diagram of the air purifier 200 according to the present embodiment. The air purifier 200 in Fig. 21 has the same configuration as the above-described air purifier 200 with reference to Fig. 19 except that the detection unit 150 includes the liquid detection unit 150c, and redundant explanations will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0265] As shown in Fig. 21, the detection unit 150 includes the liquid detection unit 150c. The liquid detection unit 150c detects whether there is liquid supplied to the humidifying filter 127. In one example, the liquid detection unit 150c detects whether there is a liquid LQ that allows the humidifying filter 127 to be immersed when the humidifying filter 127 is in the immersion position. For example, the liquid detection unit 150c detects the liquid volume of the liquid LQ in the tray 122.

[0266] For example, the liquid detection unit 150c may detect the weight of the tray 122. In this case, the liquid detection unit 150c may be a weight sensor.

[0267] Alternatively, the liquid detection unit 150c may detect the liquid level in the tray 122. For example, the liquid detection unit 150c may be an ultrasonic sensor. Alternatively, the liquid detection unit 150c may detect the magnetism of a magnet built into a float floating in the liquid LQ in the tray 122.

[0268] Alternatively, the liquid detection unit 150c may detect the weight of the liquid supply container 160 (Fig. 6) or the presence or absence of liquid in the liquid supply container 160.

[0269] Based on the detection result of the liquid detection unit 150c, the control device 280 determines whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ stored in the tray 122 in the non-humidifying mode.

[0270] Next, with reference to FIG. 22, the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment. The air purifier 200 in FIG. 22 has the same configuration as the above-described air purifier 200 with reference to FIG. 18, except that it further includes a float 150f and a liquid detection unit 150c, and redundant explanations will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0271] As shown in FIG. 22, the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment includes a float 150f and a liquid detection unit 150c. The float 150f is disposed inside the tray 122. The float 150f floats on the liquid LQ in the tray 122. For this reason, the float 150f moves in the water depth direction corresponding to the fluctuation of the liquid level of the liquid LQ in the tray 122. For example, a magnet is built into the float 150f.

[0272] The liquid detection unit 150c is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the tray 122. The liquid detection unit 150c detects the magnetism of the magnet provided on the float 150f. The liquid detection unit 150c can detect the liquid level of the liquid LQ in the tray 122 according to the strength of the magnetism.

[0273] Next, with reference to FIG. 23, the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 23 is a flowchart of an operation method of the air purifier 200 according to the present embodiment.

[0274] As shown in FIG. 23, the mode is determined in step S102a. For example, the control device 280 determines whether the mode is any one of the humidifying mode, the air purifying mode, and the stop mode. Thereafter, the control device 280 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, the detection unit 150, and / or the ion generation unit 210 based on the determined mode.

[0275] In one example, when the operator selects the humidification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the humidification mode. When the operator selects the air purification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the air purification mode. Alternatively, when the operator performs an operation to stop the driving of the air purifier 200 at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the stop mode.

[0276] When the control device 280 determines that it is the humidification mode (humidification mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S112. When the control device 280 determines that it is the air purification mode (air purification mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S122a. On the other hand, when the control device 280 determines that it is the stop mode (stop mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S132.

[0277] In step S112, the air purifier 200 is driven in the humidification mode. For example, in the humidification mode, the control device 280 drives the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130. By the control device 280 controlling the blower unit 110, air flows into the housing 102. Further, by the control device 280 controlling the drive unit 130, the humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air flowing through the housing 102. Note that in the humidification mode, the control device 280 may drive the ion generation unit 210 in addition to the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130. In this way, the air purifier 200 is driven in the humidification mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0278] In step S122a, the air purifier 200 is driven in the air purification mode. For example, in the air purification mode, the control device 280 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, and the ion generation unit 210.

[0279] In one example, when the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the air purification mode, the driving unit 130 rotates the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 to stop the rotation thereof.

[0280] For example, the air blowing unit 110 blows out air from the upstream to the downstream of the air blowing path PS. The ion generating unit 210 generates ions toward the air blowing path PS. The driving unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0281] As described above, the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the air purification mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124a.

[0282] In step S124a, it is detected whether there is liquid LQ in the tray 122. For example, the liquid detection unit 150c detects whether there is liquid LQ in the tray 122. In one example, it is detected whether there is liquid LQ in the tray 122 by comparing the liquid level or weight of the liquid LQ in the tray 122 with a threshold value.

[0283] When it is detected that there is liquid LQ in the tray 122 (Yes in step S124a), the process proceeds to step S124b. On the other hand, when it is detected that there is no liquid LQ in the tray 122 (No in step S124a), the process proceeds to step S142.

[0284] In step S124b, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of driving in the air cleaning mode. For example, the control device 280 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of driving in the air cleaning mode. In one example, the predetermined time is set to be longer than the time (e.g., 4 - 5 hours) until the liquid runs out when continuously setting to the humidifying mode when there is sufficient liquid in the liquid supply container 160 (FIG. 6). The predetermined time may be set to 24 hours.

[0285] If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in step S124b), the process proceeds to step S124c. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S124b), the process returns to step S124b and this determination is repeated until the predetermined time elapses.

[0286] In step S124c, it is detected whether or not there is liquid LQ in the tray 122. Thereby, the control device 280 can determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122 in the air cleaning mode. Here, the liquid detection unit 150c detects whether or not there is liquid LQ in the tray 122.

[0287] If it is detected that there is liquid LQ in the tray 122 (Yes in step S124c), the process proceeds to step S142. On the other hand, if it is detected that there is no liquid LQ in the tray 122 (No in step S124c), the process proceeds to step S126.

[0288] In step S126, it is notified that humidifying has not stopped despite being in the air cleaning mode. For example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidifying is being performed despite the air cleaning mode being selected. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0289] In step S132, the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the stop mode. For example, in the stop mode, the control device 280 controls to stop the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, and / or the ion generation unit 210 that have been driven so far.

[0290] For example, the control device 280 stops the driving of the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130 in the stop mode. In this case, the control device 280 stops the driving of the blower unit 110 in the stop mode. After the drive unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ of the tray 122, the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 is stopped.

[0291] As described above, the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the stop mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0292] In step S142, it is determined whether to end the driving. For example, when the operator operates to turn off the power at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines to end the driving. Or, when the power supply voltage is no longer supplied to the air purifying apparatus 200, the control device 280 determines to end the driving.

[0293] Alternatively, when the operator selects yet another mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines not to end the driving. Or, when the operator does not operate at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines not to end the driving.

[0294] If it is determined not to end the driving (No in step S142), the process returns to step S102a. On the other hand, if it is determined to end the driving (Yes in step S142), the process ends.

[0295] As described above, the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment operates. According to the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in both the air purification mode and the stop mode. According to the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not humidification can be stopped even when the liquid LQ is stored in the tray 122.

[0296] Next, with reference to FIGS. 24 to 26, the air purifier 200 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 24 is a block diagram of the air purifier 200 according to the present embodiment. The air purifier 200 in FIG. 24 has the same configuration as the above-described air purifier 200 with reference to FIG. 19, except that the detection unit 150 includes a humidity detection unit 150a and a liquid detection unit 150c, and redundant explanations will be omitted for the purpose of avoiding redundancy.

[0297] As shown in FIG. 24, the detection unit 150 includes a humidity detection unit 150a and a liquid detection unit 150c. The humidity detection unit 150a detects the humidity inside the housing 102.

[0298] The liquid detection unit 150c detects whether or not the humidifying filter 127 can be immersed in the liquid LQ when the humidifying filter 127 is located at the immersion position. For example, the liquid detection unit 150c detects the liquid level indicating the amount of the liquid LQ in the tray 122.

[0299] Note that the liquid detection unit 150c may detect the weight of the tray 122. The liquid detection unit 150c may be a weight sensor.

[0300] Alternatively, the liquid detection unit 150c may detect the liquid level in the tray 122. For example, the liquid detection unit 150c may be an ultrasonic sensor.

[0301] Or, the liquid detection unit 150c may detect the weight of the liquid supply container 160 (FIG. 6) or the presence or absence of liquid in the liquid supply container 160.

[0302] The control device 280 determines whether or not there is an abnormal state in which the humidifying filter 127 is immersed in the liquid LQ regardless of the rotation position, based on the detection results of the humidity detection unit 150a and the liquid detection unit 150c.

[0303] Next, with reference to FIG. 25, the air cleaner 200 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the air cleaner 200 of the present embodiment. The air cleaner 200 in FIG. 25 has the same configuration as the above-described air cleaner 200 with reference to FIG. 18, except that it further includes a humidity detection unit 150a, a float 150f, and a liquid detection unit 150c. For the purpose of avoiding redundancy, duplicate explanations will be omitted.

[0304] As shown in FIG. 25, the air cleaner 200 of the present embodiment includes a humidity detection unit 150a, a float 150f, and a liquid detection unit 150c. The humidity detection unit 150a detects the humidity inside the housing 102. The humidity detection unit 150a is located downstream of the humidifying filter 127 in the air blowing path PS of the air passing through the humidifying filter 127. Here, the humidity detection unit 150a is disposed at a position facing the humidifying filter unit 126 on the wall surface 102q that defines the second air path PS2 from the blowing unit 110 to the air outlet 102f.

[0305] The float 150f is disposed inside the tray 122. The float 150f floats in the liquid LQ in the tray 122. Therefore, the float 150f moves in the water depth direction corresponding to the fluctuation of the liquid level of the liquid LQ in the tray 122. For example, a magnet is built into the float 150f.

[0306] The liquid detection unit 150c is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the tray 122. The liquid detection unit 150c detects the magnetism of the magnet provided on the float 150f. The liquid detection unit 150c can detect the liquid level of the liquid LQ in the tray 122 according to the strength of the magnetism.

[0307] Next, with reference to FIG. 26, the air cleaner 200 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 26 is a flowchart of the operation method of the air cleaner 200 according to the present embodiment.

[0308] As shown in FIG. 26, the mode is determined in step S102a. For example, the control device 280 determines whether the mode is any one of a humidification mode, an air purification mode, and a stop mode. Thereafter, the control device 280 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, the detection unit 150, and / or the ion generation unit 210 based on the determined mode.

[0309] In one example, when the operator selects the humidification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the humidification mode. When the operator selects the air purification mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the air purification mode. Alternatively, when the operator performs an operation to stop the driving of the air purifier 200 at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that it is the stop mode.

[0310] When the control device 280 determines that it is the humidification mode (humidification mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S112. When the control device 280 determines that it is the air purification mode (air purification mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S122a. On the other hand, when the control device 280 determines that it is the stop mode (stop mode in step S102a), the process proceeds to step S132.

[0311] In step S112, the air purifier 200 is driven in the humidification mode. For example, in the humidification mode, the control device 280 drives the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130. By the control device 280 controlling the blower unit 110, air flows into the housing 102. Also, by the control device 280 controlling the drive unit 130, the humidifying unit 120 humidifies the air flowing through the housing 102. Note that in the humidification mode, the control device 280 may drive the ion generation unit 210 in addition to the blower unit 110 and the drive unit 130. In this way, the air purifier 200 is driven in the humidification mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113a.

[0312] In step S113a, it is detected whether there is liquid LQ in tray 122. For example, liquid detection unit 150c detects whether there is liquid LQ in tray 122.

[0313] If it is detected that there is liquid LQ in tray 122 (Yes in step S113a), the process proceeds to step S113b. On the other hand, if it is detected that there is no liquid LQ in tray 122 (No in step S113a), the process returns to step S102a.

[0314] In step S113b, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of driving in the humidification mode. For example, control device 280 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of driving in the humidification mode.

[0315] If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in step S113b), the process proceeds to step S113c. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S113b), the process returns to step S113b and this determination is repeated until the predetermined time elapses.

[0316] In step S113c, air cleaner 200 is driven in a temporary air cleaning mode. Air cleaner 200 has been driven in the humidification mode so far, but is temporarily driven in the air cleaning mode. For example, in the temporary air cleaning mode, control device 280 controls blower unit 110, drive unit 130, and ion generation unit 210.

[0317] In one example, when air cleaner 200 is driven in the temporary air cleaning mode, drive unit 130 rotates humidifying filter 127 and holder 128 until non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of holder 128 is immersed in liquid LQ in tray 122, and then drives humidifying filter 127 and holder 128 to stop their rotation.

[0318] For example, the air blowing unit 110 blows air from the upstream to the downstream of the air blowing path PS. The ion generation unit 210 generates ions toward the air blowing path PS. The driving unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing portion 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ of the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128. In this way, the air purifying device 200 is driven in the temporary air purification mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S113d.

[0319] In step S113d, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of driving in the temporary air purification mode. For example, the control device 280 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of driving in the temporary air purification mode.

[0320] If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in step S113d), the process proceeds to step S113e. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step S113d), the process performs step S113d again and repeats this determination until the predetermined time elapses.

[0321] In step S113e, it is determined whether the humidity has changed in the temporary air purification mode. When the humidifying filter 127 is in a normal state, when the mode changes from the humidifying mode to the temporary air purification mode, the humidifying filter 127 no longer immerses in the liquid LQ of the tray 122, so the humidity decreases. On the other hand, when the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state where it immerses in the liquid LQ of the tray 122 even in the temporary air purification mode, even when the mode changes from the humidifying mode to the temporary air purification mode, the humidifying filter 127 immerses in the liquid LQ of the tray 122, so the humidity does not change. Therefore, the control device 280 can determine whether the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of immersing in the liquid LQ of the tray 122 when in the air purification mode. For example, the control device 280 determines whether the humidity has changed in the temporary air purification mode based on the detection result of the humidity detection unit 150a.

[0322] When it is determined that the humidity has changed (Yes in step S113e), the process proceeds to step S112a. On the other hand, when it is determined that the humidity has not changed (No in step S113e), the process proceeds to step S114a.

[0323] In step S112a, the air purifier 200 is driven again in the humidification mode. After that, the process returns to step S113a.

[0324] In step S114a, it is detected whether there is a liquid LQ in the tray 122. For example, the liquid detection unit 150c detects whether there is a liquid LQ in the tray 122.

[0325] When it is detected that there is a liquid LQ in the tray 122 (Yes in step S114a), the process proceeds to step S142. On the other hand, when it is detected that there is no liquid LQ in the tray 122 (No in step S114a), the process proceeds to step S116.

[0326] In step S116, when the stop mode or the air purification mode is selected, it is notified that humidification is not stopped. For example, the operation unit 140 notifies that humidification is performed even when the stop mode or the air purification mode is selected. After that, the process ends.

[0327] In step S122a, the air purifier 200 is driven in the air purification mode. For example, in the air purification mode, the control device 280 controls the blower unit 110, the drive unit 130, and the ion generation unit 210.

[0328] In one example, when the air purifier 200 is driven in the air purification mode, the drive unit 130 drives the humidification filter 127 and the holder 128 to rotate the humidification filter 127 and the holder 128 until the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidification filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0329] For example, the air blowing unit 110 blows out air from the upstream to the downstream of the air blowing path PS. The ion generation unit 210 generates ions toward the air blowing path PS. The driving unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0330] As described above, the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the air purification mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0331] In step S132, the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the stop mode. For example, in the stop mode, the control device 280 controls to stop the air blowing unit 110, the driving unit 130, and / or the ion generation unit 210 that have been driven so far.

[0332] For example, the control device 280 stops the driving of the air blowing unit 110 and the driving unit 130 in the stop mode. In this case, the control device 280 stops the driving of the air blowing unit 110 in the stop mode. The driving unit 130 drives the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128 so that the non-liquid-absorbing part 128e of the holder 128 is immersed in the liquid LQ in the tray 122, and then stops the rotation of the humidifying filter 127 and the holder 128.

[0333] As described above, the air purifying apparatus 200 is driven in the stop mode. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S142.

[0334] In step S142, it is determined whether to end the driving. For example, when the operator operates to turn off the power at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines that the driving is to be ended. Or, when the power supply voltage is no longer supplied to the air purifying apparatus 200, the control device 280 determines that the driving is to be ended.

[0335] Alternatively, when the operator selects yet another mode at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines not to end the drive. Or, when the operator does not operate at the operation unit 140, the control device 280 determines not to end the drive.

[0336] When it is determined not to end the drive (No in step S142), the process returns to step S102a. Note that when step S102a is performed again, if it has been detected in the past that there is liquid LQ in the tray 122 in step S114a, it may be notified that humidification is performed even when the air cleaning mode and the stop mode are selected at the operation unit 140. Alternatively, it may be set so that the air cleaning mode and the stop mode cannot be selected by operating the operation unit 140. On the other hand, when it is determined to end the drive (Yes in step S142), the process ends.

[0337] As described above, the air cleaning device 200 of the present embodiment operates. According to the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not the humidifying filter 127 is in an abnormal state of being immersed in the liquid LQ in either the air cleaning mode or the stop mode. According to the air cleaning device 200 of the present embodiment, it is possible to determine whether humidification can be stopped even when the liquid LQ is stored in the tray 122.

[0338] As described above, this embodiment has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the gist thereof. Also, a plurality of components disclosed in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. For example, a component among all the components shown in a certain embodiment may be added to the components of another embodiment, or some of the components among all the components shown in a certain embodiment may be deleted from the embodiment.

[0339] In addition, for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the invention, the drawings schematically show each component mainly. The thickness, length, number, interval, etc. of each illustrated component may be different from the actual ones for the convenience of drawing creation. Also, it goes without saying that the configuration of each component shown in the above embodiment is an example and is not particularly limited, and various modifications can be made without substantially departing from the effects of the present invention.

Industrial Applicability

[0340] The present invention provides a humidifying device and an air cleaning device.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0341] 100 Humidifying device 110 Blowing unit 120 Humidifying unit 122 Tray 127 Humidifying filter 130 Driving unit 140 Operation unit 150 Detection unit

Claims

1. A tray capable of storing a liquid, a humidifying filter that can be immersed in the liquid stored in the tray, a driving unit that can rotate the humidifying filter so as to displace between an immersion position where the humidifying filter is immersed in the liquid stored in the tray and a non-immersion position where the humidifying filter is not immersed in the liquid stored in the tray when the humidifying filter is in a normal state, a determination unit that determines whether or not it is an abnormal state in which the humidifying filter is immersed in the liquid of the tray regardless of the rotation position of the humidifying filter A humidifying device comprising:

2. The humidifying device according to claim 1, further comprising a detection unit that detects whether or not the humidifying filter is immersed in the liquid stored in the tray at the non-immersion position.

3. The humidifying device according to claim 2, wherein the detection unit includes a humidity detection unit that detects humidity.

4. The humidifying device according to claim 3, wherein the humidity detection unit is located downstream of the humidifying filter in an air blowing path of air passing through the humidifying filter.

5. Further comprising a holder for holding the humidifying filter, the holder has a non-liquid-absorbing portion that prevents the humidifying filter from being immersed in the liquid stored in the tray at the non-immersion position, The humidifying device according to claim 2, wherein the detection unit includes a sensor that detects the shape of the non-liquid-absorbing portion.

6. The humidifying device according to claim 5, wherein the sensor includes a proximity sensor that detects whether or not the non-liquid-absorbing portion is within a predetermined distance.

7. The humidifying device according to claim 5, wherein the sensor includes a distance measuring sensor that measures the distance to the non-liquid-absorbing portion.

8. The humidifying device according to claim 2, wherein the detection unit includes a liquid detection unit that detects the presence or absence of the liquid supplied to the humidifying filter.

9. An air cleaning device comprising: the humidifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and an ion generation unit that generates ions for air passing through the humidifying filter ​

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