Humidification device

Abstract

To provide a humidification device that can inhibit a water supply tray from becoming dirty due to residual water while suppressing increase in size of the humidification device.SOLUTION: A humidification device 100 includes a humidification filter 3a, a water supply tray 4, and a control unit 200. The water supply tray 4 stores water to supply the water to the humidification filter 3. The control unit 200 can run humidification operation of humidifying the air with the water absorbed by the humidification filter 3a. The control unit 200 outputs disposal notification information of prompting a user to dispose the water stored in the water supply tray 4 when switching the humidification operation from an on state to an off state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a humidification device. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a humidifier that includes a humidifying filter and a water supply tray that stores water and supplies the water to the humidifying filter (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 describes a humidifier that includes an evaporation filter, a water receiving tray, a first tank, a second tank, and a recovery pump. The first tank stores water to be supplied to the water receiving tray. The second tank stores residual water recovered from the water receiving tray. The recovery pump recovers the residual water from the water receiving tray into the second tank. In the humidifier described in Patent Document 1, the recovery pump recovers the residual water in the water receiving tray into the second tank. This prevents water from remaining in the water receiving tray. This prevents the water receiving tray from becoming soiled with bacteria and limescale. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-32144 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the humidifier described in Patent Document 1 is provided with a second tank for storing the remaining water collected from the water receiving tray and a recovery pump for recovering the remaining water in the water receiving tray into the second tank in order to prevent the water receiving tray from becoming soiled with bacteria and limescale. This necessitates space for the second tank and the recovery pump, which results in the problem of the humidifier becoming larger.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a humidifier that can prevent the water supply tray from becoming dirty due to residual water while preventing the humidifier from becoming larger. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A humidifier according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a humidifying filter, a water supply tray, and a control unit. The water supply tray stores water and supplies the water to the humidifying filter. The control unit is capable of performing a humidification operation that humidifies air with the water absorbed by the humidifying filter. When the humidification operation is switched from an on state to an off state, the control unit outputs disposal notification information that prompts a user to discard the water in the water supply tray. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a humidifier that can prevent the water supply tray from becoming dirty due to residual water while preventing the humidifier from becoming larger. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view illustrating a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the inside of the humidifier. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the water supply unit is removed from the humidifying section. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a humidifier. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a control flow of a humidifier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a control flow of a humidifier according to a first modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a control flow of a humidifier according to a second modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] A humidifier 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a humidifier 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the interior of the humidifier 100. In this embodiment, the figure shows an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are perpendicular to each other. The Z-axis is parallel to the vertical direction, and the X-axis and Y-axis are parallel to the horizontal direction. The positive direction of the X-axis indicates the front side of the humidifier 100. The positive direction of the Z-axis indicates the vertically upward direction.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the humidifier 100 includes a humidifying filter unit 3, a water supply tray 4, and a control unit 200 (see FIG. 4). Specifically, the humidifier 100 includes a housing 1, a humidifying section 30, an operation panel 80 (see FIG. 4), the control unit 200 (see FIG. 4), and a water supply unit 5. The water supply unit 5 includes a water supply tank 51 and a unit outer wall 52. The humidifier 100 is placed, for example, on the floor of a room.

[0012] 1 and 2, the housing 1 has a top plate 71, a bottom plate 72, a pair of side plates, a front panel 73, and a rear panel 14. The front panel 73, the rear panel 14, and the pair of side plates are each disposed between the top plate 71 and the bottom plate 72.

[0013] The front panel 73 is disposed opposite the rear panel 14. The rear panel 14 is disposed on the rear side of the housing 1. The rear panel 14 has a plurality of air inlets 15. Each of the plurality of air inlets 15 is an opening.

[0014] The top plate 71 is disposed opposite the bottom plate 72. The top plate 71 forms the upper surface of the housing 1. The top plate 71 has an air outlet 16. The air outlet 16 is an opening.

[0015] The operation panel 80 is disposed on the top panel 71 and / or the front panel 73. The operation panel 80 receives instructions from the user and outputs a signal indicating the instruction from the user to the control unit 200 (see FIG. 4). The control unit 200 controls the operation of each unit of the humidifier 100 in accordance with the signal from the operation panel 80. The operation panel 80 also notifies the user of the status of the humidifier 100. The operation panel 80 has a notification unit 81 (see FIG. 4), such as an LED lamp and / or a display unit, for notifying the user of the status of the humidifier 100. The operation panel 80 also has a humidification operation button 82 (see FIG. 4) that the user presses to switch the humidification operation between on and off.

[0016] The control unit 200 can also perform a humidification operation to humidify the air with water absorbed by a humidifying filter 3a (described later) of the humidifying filter unit 3. The control unit 200 can also perform an air purification operation to purify the air when the humidification operation is off.

[0017] A plurality of circulating parts 60 through which air circulates are provided inside the housing 1. Specifically, the plurality of circulating parts 60 have a first chamber 61, a second chamber 62, a third chamber 63, and a fourth chamber 64.

[0018] The first chamber 61 is disposed in a rear side portion of the housing 1. The first chamber 61 communicates with the outside of the housing 1 via a plurality of suction ports 15. The first chamber 61 is provided with a deodorizing filter 17 and a dust collecting filter 18 provided in the humidifier 100.

[0019] The second chamber 62 is located in the center of the housing 1 in the front-to-rear direction. The first chamber 61 and the second chamber 62 are connected to each other. The humidifying section 30 is located in the second chamber 62. Specifically, the humidifying section 30 has a humidifying filter unit 3 and a water supply tray 4. The lower part of the humidifying filter unit 3 is located in the water supply tray 4. The water supply tray 4 is detachably attached to the housing 1. Specifically, the housing 1 houses at least a portion of the water supply tray 4. The water supply tray 4 also houses a predetermined amount of water. The water supply tray 4 supplies water to the humidifying filter unit 3. The humidifying filter unit 3 sucks up the water in the water supply tray 4.

[0020] The third chamber 63 is disposed in the front portion of the housing 1. The second chamber 62 and the third chamber 63 are in communication with each other. The air blower 2 of the humidifier 100 is disposed in the third chamber 63. The air blower 2 includes, for example, a fan 20 and a motor 21. The motor 21 rotates the fan 20.

[0021] The fourth chamber 64 is disposed on the positive side of the Z axis of the housing 1. The fourth chamber 64 communicates with the third chamber 63. The fourth chamber 64 also communicates with the outside of the housing 1 via the air outlet 16.

[0022] Next, the air flow will be described in detail. The fan 20 generates a first airflow F1. The first airflow F1 passes through the first chamber 61, the second chamber 62, the third chamber 63, and the fourth chamber 64 in this order. As the first airflow F1 passes through the second chamber 62, it is humidified by the humidifying section 30. Specifically, the first airflow F1 is directed at the humidifying filter unit 3. As a result, water contained in the humidifying filter unit 3 evaporates and is released as water vapor from the humidifier 100 into the room.

[0023] Next, the water supply unit 5 and the humidifying section 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view that schematically shows the state in which the water supply unit 5 has been removed from the humidifying section 30. As shown in Fig. 3, the water supply tray 4 has a substantially rectangular box shape. The top surface of the water supply tray 4 is open.

[0024] Specifically, the water supply tray 4 has a tank chamber 40, a filter chamber 44, and a partition plate 43. The partition plate 43 is disposed between the tank chamber 40 and the filter chamber 44. That is, the water supply tray 4 is divided into the tank chamber 40 and the filter chamber 44. Specifically, the tank chamber 40 and the filter chamber 44 are divided along the Y-axis direction (horizontal direction). In more detail, the tank chamber 40 is provided on the negative side of the Y-axis from the filter chamber 44. A communication port (not shown) that connects the tank chamber 40 and the filter chamber 44 is provided in the lower part of the partition plate 43.

[0025] Two support rollers 6 of the humidifying section 30 are disposed within the filter chamber 44. The two support rollers 6 support the humidifying filter unit 3. The two support rollers 6 are driven rollers that rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the humidifying filter unit 3. The two support rollers 6 are disposed a predetermined distance apart in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) of the filter chamber 44. The lower part of the humidifying filter unit 3 is disposed within the filter chamber 44.

[0026] Specifically, the humidifying filter unit 3 includes a humidifying filter 3a, a holding frame 3b, a non-water-supply portion 3c, and a rack 3d. The humidifying filter 3a is a breathable and water-absorbent member and is formed in a substantially disk shape. The holding frame 3b, the non-water-supply portion 3c, and the rack 3d are integrally formed, for example, from plastic. The holding frame 3b surrounds the humidifying filter 3a and holds it. The holding frame 3b is rotatably mounted on two support rollers 6. A substantially D-shaped non-water-supply portion 3c is provided at a portion of the periphery of the holding frame 3b. The humidifying filter 3a may have a shape in which a portion corresponding to the non-water-supply portion 3c is cut away (a so-called D-cut shape). Alternatively, the humidifying filter 3a may be formed in a disk shape, with the non-water-supply portion 3c covering a portion of the humidifying filter 3a.

[0027] The rack 3d is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the holding frame 3b. The rack 3d has a plurality of teeth formed around the entire outer peripheral surface of the holding frame 3b. Specifically, the humidifying unit 30 has a pinion 3e and a motor (not shown). The rack 3d meshes with the pinion 3e of the humidifying unit 30. The pinion 3e is rotated by the motor (not shown) of the humidifying unit 30. When the motor rotates the pinion 3e, the humidifying filter unit 3 rotates in the circumferential direction around the rotation center O.

[0028] During humidification operation, the humidifying filter unit 3 continues to rotate in the circumferential direction. This causes the humidifying filter 3a to suck up water in the water supply tray 4. On the other hand, during non-humidification operation, the rotation of the humidifying filter unit 3 is stopped with the non-water supply section 3c positioned at the bottom (the state shown in Figure 3). As a result, the humidifying filter 3a does not come into contact with the water in the water supply tray 4 and does not suck up water. In this embodiment, the humidifying filter 3a is positioned above and spaced a predetermined distance from the bottom surface of the water supply tray 4. For this reason, it is difficult for the humidifying filter 3a to suck up all of the water in the water supply tray 4 even if it continues to rotate in the circumferential direction.

[0029] The tank chamber 40 is also provided with a push-up protrusion 41, a seat plate 42, and a rotating part 45. The push-up protrusion 41 is erected vertically upward from the bottom plate. The seat plate 42 protrudes inward from the side plate. The rotating part 45 has a flat plate 45b and a rotating shaft part 45c. The flat plate 45b is arranged to be rotatable around the rotating shaft part 45c as a rotation axis along the X-axis direction (horizontal direction).

[0030] The water supply unit 5 is placed in the tank chamber 40. Specifically, the water supply unit 5 is placed on the seat plate 42 and the rotating part 45. The push-up protrusion 41 pushes up a valve (not shown) provided on the bottom cover of the water supply unit 5. The water supply tank 51 of the water supply unit 5 stores water. The water supply tank 51 supplies water to the humidifier 100. Specifically, the water supply tank 51 supplies water to the tank chamber 40. The water supplied to the tank chamber 40 flows into the filter chamber 44 via the communication port. When the water supply tank 51 stores a sufficient amount of water, water is supplied from the water supply tank 51 to the water supply tray 4 so that the water level in the water supply tray 4 is always maintained at the appropriate water level L. This configuration for supplying water from the water supply tank 51 to the water supply tray 4 is well known, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0031] In the humidifier 100, when the water in the water tank 51 runs out, a user or the like can replenish water in the water tank 51. Specifically, the water tank 51 and the humidifying section 30 can be separated from each other.

[0032] The humidifier 100 also includes a rotational position detection unit 90. The rotational position detection unit 90 detects the rotational position of the humidifying filter unit 3. Specifically, the rotational position detection unit 90 includes a detection sensor 91 and a detectable member 92. The detectable member 92 generates a magnetic force. The detectable member 92 is, for example, a magnet. The detection sensor 91 is, for example, a magnetic sensor such as a Hall element that detects magnetic force.

[0033] The detection sensor 91 detects the rotational position of the humidifying filter unit 3 by detecting the detectable member 92. More specifically, the detection sensor 91 detects the detectable member 92 and outputs a detection signal indicating that the detectable member 92 has been detected to the control unit 200. In this embodiment, the detectable member 92 is disposed in the non-water supply section 3c of the humidifying filter unit 3. The detection sensor 91 is disposed outside the water supply tray 4 in a position facing the lower part of the water supply tray 4.

[0034] In this embodiment, with the non-water-supply portion 3c of the humidifying filter unit 3 positioned at the bottom, the detection sensor 91 faces the detectable member 92 and detects the detectable member 92. Therefore, with the detection sensor 91 detecting the detectable member 92, the rotation of the humidifying filter unit 3 is stopped, so that the non-water-supply portion 3c of the humidifying filter unit 3 can be positioned at the bottom.

[0035] Next, the humidifier 100 will be further described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram of the humidifier 100. As shown in Fig. 4, the humidifier 100 includes a water level sensor 70 and a control unit 200.

[0036] The water level sensor 70 detects the water level in the water supply tray 4. The water level sensor 70 may detect the water level in the tank chamber 40 or the water level in the filter chamber 44. In this embodiment, the water level sensor 70 detects the water level in the tank chamber 40, thereby detecting a low water level state in which the water level in the water supply tray 4 and the water supply tank 51 is below a predetermined water level. Note that in this embodiment, a low water level state does not only refer to a state in which the water in the water supply tray 4 has completely run out, but also refers to a state in which the humidifying filter 3a is unable to suck up water from the water supply tray 4. In other words, a low water level state refers to a state in which the water level has dropped below the lowest position of the humidifying filter 3a during rotation.

[0037] The water level sensor 70 is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a float switch placed in the water supply tray 4, or a non-contact distance measuring sensor such as an optical or ultrasonic type. The water level sensor 70 transmits the measurement result to the control unit 200.

[0038] The control unit 200 includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and a storage device. For example, the control unit 200 receives various signals from each element of the humidifier 100 and controls each element of the humidifier 100 based on the received signals. Specifically, the control unit 200 controls each element of the humidifier 100, such as the humidifier unit 30, the operation panel 80, and the blower unit 2.

[0039] Specifically, during humidification operation, the control unit 200 drives the motor of the humidifying unit 30 to rotate the humidifying filter unit 3. During humidification operation and air purification operation, the control unit 200 drives the motor 21 of the blower unit 2 to drive the fan 20. The control unit 200 also controls the notification unit 81, such as an LED lamp and / or a display unit on the operation panel 80, to notify the user of the status of the humidifier 100. The control unit 200 also receives measurement results from the water level sensor 70. The control unit 200 also receives detection results from the rotational position detection unit 90.

[0040] The storage device of the control unit 200 stores data and computer programs. For example, the storage device temporarily stores data necessary for each process of the control unit 200. The storage device also stores disposal notification information that prompts the user to discard water in the water supply tray 4 and replenishment notification information that prompts the user to replenish water. The storage device also stores replenishment notification stop information that stops the notification that prompts the user to replenish water in the water supply tray 4. The storage device includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device, and includes, for example, a memory and a hard disk drive. The storage device may also include removable media.

[0041] Next, the control flow of the humidifier 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Specifically, the control flow for outputting disposal notification information when the humidifying operation is switched from the on state to the off state will be described. Here, an example will be described in which the humidifying operation is switched from the on state to the off state when the water level sensor 70 detects a low water level in the water supply tray 4. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the control flow of the humidifier 100 of this embodiment.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 5, in step S11, the humidification operation is turned on. Specifically, the user presses the humidification operation button 82 on the operation panel 80. This causes the control unit 200 to rotate the humidifying filter unit 3 and drive the fan 20. As the humidifying filter unit 3 rotates, the humidifying filter 3a sucks up water in the water supply tray 4. As the fan 20 is driven, the first airflow F1 passes through the first chamber 61, the second chamber 62, the third chamber 63, and the fourth chamber 64 in this order. Therefore, the water contained in the humidifying filter unit 3 humidifies the air (first airflow F1). The humidified air (first airflow F1) is released into the room through the air outlet 16.

[0043] Next, in step S13, it is determined whether the water supply tray 4 is in a low water level state. Specifically, as the humidification operation in step S11 continues, the water in the water supply tray 4 decreases. If the water level in the water supply tray 4 is equal to or higher than a predetermined water level, the control unit 200 determines that the water supply tray 4 is not in a low water level state based on the detection result of the water level sensor 70. On the other hand, if the water level in the water supply tray 4 falls below the predetermined water level, the control unit 200 determines that the water supply tray 4 is in a low water level state based on the detection result of the water level sensor 70. In this embodiment, the control unit 200 determines that the water supply tray 4 and the water supply tank 51 are in a low water level state.

[0044] If the control unit 200 determines in step S13 that the water supply tray 4 is not in a low water level state, the determination in step S13 is repeated.

[0045] On the other hand, if the control unit 200 determines in step S13 that the water level in the water supply tray 4 is low, the process proceeds to step S15.

[0046] Next, in step S15, replenishment notification information is output. Specifically, the control unit 200 outputs replenishment notification information that prompts the user to replenish water in the water supply tray 4. In this embodiment, the replenishment notification information is information that prompts the user to replenish water in the water supply tray 4 by replenishing water in the water supply tank 51. In this embodiment, since replenishing water in the water supply tank 51 also replenishes water in the water supply tray 4, the replenishment notification information may be information that prompts the user to replenish water in the water supply tank 51. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 200 outputs the replenishment notification information to the notification unit 81.

[0047] Next, in step S17, the notification unit 81 notifies the user that water should be replenished in the water supply tray 4. In this embodiment, the notification unit 81 may also notify the user that water should be replenished in the water supply tank 51.

[0048] Next, in step S19, the humidifying operation is switched from the ON state to the OFF state. Specifically, the control unit 200 stops the rotation of the humidifying filter unit 3 with the non-water supply portion 3c positioned at the bottom based on the detection result of the rotation position detection unit 90. In this way, the control unit 200 switches the humidifying operation from the ON state to the OFF state.

[0049] In step S19, the control unit 200 may continue or stop driving the fan 20. If the fan 20 continues to be driven, the operation switches to air purification. Specifically, the first airflow F1 is discharged into the room from the air outlet 16 after being purified by the deodorizing filter 17 and the dust collecting filter 18. On the other hand, if the fan 20 is stopped from being driven, the humidifying operation and the air purification operation are turned off. In other words, the humidifier 100 enters a standby state.

[0050] Next, in step S21, it is determined whether water has been replenished in the water supply tray 4. Specifically, in this embodiment, the control unit 200 determines whether water has been replenished in the water supply tank 51 and the water supply tray 4 based on the detection result of the water level sensor 70.

[0051] If the control unit 200 determines in step S21 that water has been replenished in the water supply tray 4, the process proceeds to step S23.

[0052] On the other hand, if the control unit 200 determines in step S21 that water has not been replenished in the water supply tray 4, the process proceeds to step S29.

[0053] Next, when the process proceeds from step S21 to step S23, replenishment notification stop information is output in step S23. Specifically, the control unit 200 outputs replenishment notification stop information that stops the notification that urges the user to replenish water in the water supply tray 4. In this embodiment, the replenishment notification stop information may be information that stops the notification that urges the user to replenish water in the water supply tank 51. Also, in this embodiment, the control unit 200 outputs the replenishment notification stop information to the notification unit 81.

[0054] Next, in step S25, the notification unit 81 stops notifying the user to replenish water in the water supply tray 4. In this embodiment, the notification unit 81 may stop notifying the user to replenish water in the water supply tank 51. At this time, the notification unit 81 may also notify the user that the water supply tray 4 or the water supply tank 51 is full of water.

[0055] Next, in step S27, the humidifying operation is switched from the OFF state to the ON state. Specifically, the control unit 200 rotates the humidifying filter unit 3 and drives the fan 20. Then, the process returns to step S13.

[0056] Next, when the process proceeds from step S21 to step S29, it is determined in step S29 whether a predetermined time has elapsed. Specifically, the control unit 200 determines whether a predetermined time (for example, one hour) has elapsed since the replenishment notification information was output.

[0057] If the control unit 200 determines in step S29 that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the replenishment notification information was output, the process returns to step S21.

[0058] On the other hand, if the control unit 200 determines in step S29 that a predetermined time has elapsed since the output of the replenishment notification information, the process proceeds to step S31. In other words, if water is not replenished despite the user being prompted to replenish water, the control unit 200 determines that the user does not want the humidification operation to continue, and proceeds to the next process.

[0059] Next, in step S31, disposal notification information is output. Specifically, the control unit 200 outputs disposal notification information that prompts the user to discard the water (remaining water) in the water supply tray 4. In this embodiment, the disposal notification information is information that prompts the user to discard the water in the water supply tray 4 and the water in the water supply tank 51. Also, in this embodiment, the control unit 200 outputs the disposal notification information to the notification unit 81.

[0060] Next, in step S33, the notification unit 81 notifies the user that the water in the water supply tray 4 will be discarded. In this embodiment, the notification unit 81 notifies the user that the water in the water supply tray 4 and the water in the water supply tank 51 will be discarded.

[0061] Although an example in which step S19 is executed after step S17 has been shown here, step S19 may be executed after step S13 and before step S21. Step S19 may also be executed in parallel with step S15 or step S17.

[0062] In this embodiment, as described above, when the humidifying operation is switched from the on state to the off state, the control unit 200 outputs disposal notification information that prompts the user to discard the water in the water supply tray 4. Therefore, when the user discards the water in the water supply tray 4, it is possible to prevent the water supply tray 4 from becoming dirty due to remaining water. In addition, it is not necessary to provide a recovery tank for recovering water in the water supply tray 4 and a recovery pump for recovering water in the water supply tray 4 into the recovery tank. This prevents the humidifier 100 from becoming larger. As described above, in this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the water supply tray 4 from becoming dirty due to remaining water while preventing the humidifier 100 from becoming larger.

[0063] Furthermore, since the water supply tray 4 can be prevented from becoming soiled, the humidifying filter 3a can also be prevented from becoming soiled, which reduces the frequency with which the humidifying filter 3a needs to be replaced, thereby reducing the environmental impact.

[0064] Furthermore, as described above, if the water level sensor 70 detects a low water level in the water supply tray 4 while the humidification operation is on, the control unit 200 switches the humidification operation from on to off and outputs disposal notification information. Therefore, even if the water level in the water supply tray 4 becomes low due to the humidification operation, the user can discard the water in the water supply tray 4, thereby preventing the water supply tray 4 from becoming dirty due to water. Furthermore, for example, it is possible to prompt the user to discard the water in the water supply tray 4 every time the water level in the water supply tray 4 becomes low, thereby allowing the water (residual water) in the water supply tray 4 to be periodically discarded. This prevents dirt from firmly adhering to the water supply tray 4.

[0065] Furthermore, as described above, if the water level sensor 70 detects a low water level in the water supply tray 4 while the humidification operation is on, the control unit 200 outputs refill notification information. Then, if a predetermined time has passed since the output of the refill notification information without water being replenished, the control unit 200 outputs disposal notification information. In other words, if the water level sensor 70 detects a low water level in the water supply tray 4 after a predetermined time has passed since the output of the refill notification information, the control unit 200 outputs disposal notification information. In other words, if the user is prompted to replenish water but does not replenish it, the control unit 200 prompts the user to discard the water in the water supply tray 4. Therefore, if the user does not intend to continue the humidification operation, the user can be prompted to discard the water in the water supply tray 4. This further reduces the possibility of the water supply tray 4 becoming soiled due to remaining water.

[0066] As described above, the humidifier 100 also includes the notification unit 81 that notifies the user of the disposal notification information output from the control unit 200. Therefore, the disposal notification information and the like can be easily notified to the user.

[0067] (First Modification) Next, the control flow of the humidifier 100 according to a first modified example of the above embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the control flow of the humidifier 100 according to the first modified example. In the first modified example, unlike the above embodiment, an example will be described in which disposal notification information is also output when replenishment notification information is output. The structure of the humidifier 100 according to the first modified example is the same as that of the above embodiment.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 6, the control flow of the first modified example further includes step S131 and step S133, but does not include step S31 and step S33, as compared with the control flow of the above embodiment.

[0069] Steps S11, S13, S15 and S17 are the same as those in the above embodiment.

[0070] Next, in step S131, disposal notification information is output. Note that step S131 is the same as step S31 in the above embodiment.

[0071] Next, in step S133, the notification unit 81 notifies the user to discard the water in the water tray 4. Note that step S133 is the same as step S33 in the above embodiment. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S19.

[0072] Note that, although an example has been shown here in which steps S131 and S133 are executed after step S17 and before step S19, steps S131 and S133 may be executed after step S13 and before step S21.

[0073] In the first modification, as described above, the control unit 200 also outputs discard notification information when outputting refill notification information. Therefore, even when the user refills water, the old water in the water supply tray 4 can be replaced with new water by first discarding the water in the water supply tray 4. This further prevents the water supply tray 4 from becoming dirty.

[0074] (Second Modification) Next, the control flow of the humidifier 100 according to a second modified example of the above embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the control flow of the humidifier 100 according to the second modified example. Unlike the above embodiment, the second modified example describes an example in which the humidifying operation is manually turned off by the user. The structure of the humidifier 100 according to the second modified example is the same as that of the above embodiment.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 7, the control flow of the second modified example includes steps S11, S201, S203, S231 and S233.

[0076] Step S11 is the same as in the above embodiment.

[0077] Next, in step S201, the humidification operation button 82 is turned off. Specifically, the user presses the humidification operation button 82 on the operation panel 80. That is, the user inputs an instruction to switch the humidification operation from the ON state to the OFF state. As a result, a humidification operation stop signal is input from the operation panel 80 to the control unit 200.

[0078] Next, in step S203, the humidifying operation is switched from the ON state to the OFF state. Specifically, based on the detection result of the rotation position detection unit 90, the control unit 200 stops the rotation of the humidifying filter unit 3 with the non-water supply unit 3c positioned at the bottom. As a result, the humidifying filter 3a does not come into contact with the water in the water supply tray 4 and does not suck up water. The control unit 200 also stops driving the fan 20. In this way, the control unit 200 switches the humidifying operation from the ON state to the OFF state.

[0079] If the user switches from the humidification operation to the air purification operation using the humidification operation button or the like in step S201, the control unit 200 continues driving the fan 20 in step S203.

[0080] Next, in step S231, disposal notification information is output. Note that step S231 is the same as step S31 in the above embodiment.

[0081] Next, in step S233, the notification unit 81 notifies the user to discard the water in the water tray 4. Note that step S233 is similar to step S33 in the above embodiment.

[0082] Although an example in which step S231 and step S233 are executed after step S203 has been shown here, step S231 and step S233 may be executed after step S201. For example, step S231 or step S233 may be executed in parallel with step S203.

[0083] In the second modification, as described above, when a command to switch the humidification operation from the ON state to the OFF state is received from the user, the control unit 200 switches the humidification operation from the ON state to the OFF state and outputs disposal notification information. Therefore, if the user does not intend to continue the humidification operation, the user can be prompted to discard the remaining water in the water supply tray 4. This makes it easy to prevent the water supply tray 4 from becoming soiled due to water.

[0084] The embodiments and modifications of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and modifications and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, various disclosures can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments and modifications. For example, some components may be omitted from all components shown in the embodiments and modifications. Furthermore, components from different embodiments and modifications may be appropriately combined. The drawings mainly show each component in a schematic manner to facilitate understanding. The thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown may differ from the actual components due to the convenience of drawing. Furthermore, the materials, shapes, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments and modifications are merely examples and are not particularly limited. Various modifications are possible within a scope that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present disclosure.

[0085] For example, in the above embodiment, an example has been described in which it is determined in step S21 whether water has been replenished in the water supply tray 4 based on the detection result of the water level sensor 70, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, it may be determined whether water has been replenished in the water supply tray 4 based on the detection result of a tray detection unit that detects the attachment and detachment (here, attachment and detachment) of the water supply tray 4 to and from the housing 1. Then, if a predetermined time has passed since the output of the refill notification information without the water supply tray 4 being attached or detached, the control unit 200 may determine that water has not been replenished in the water supply tray 4 and output the disposal notification information. In other words, if the tray detection unit does not detect the attachment and detachment of the water supply tray 4 until a predetermined time has passed since the output of the refill notification information, the control unit 200 may determine that water has not been replenished in the water supply tray 4 and output the disposal notification information.

[0086] Specifically, the tray detection unit that detects the attachment or detachment of the water supply tray 4 may be, for example, a mechanical switch. Alternatively, for example, a weight sensor serving as a tray detection unit may be provided in the portion of the housing 1 where the water supply tray 4 is placed, and the weight sensor may be used to detect the attachment or detachment of the water supply tray 4. In this case, the amount of water in the water supply tray 4 may be measured based on the detection result of the weight sensor, or the amount of water in the water supply tray 4 and the water supply tank 51 may be measured. In other words, the weight sensor may also serve as a water level sensor. Alternatively, for example, the rotational position detection unit 90 may be used to detect the attachment or detachment of the water supply tray 4 relative to the housing 1. In other words, the rotational position detection unit 90 may also serve as a tray detection unit. Furthermore, for example, if the water level sensor 70 is an optical sensor, the color of the water supply tray 4 may be different from the color of the housing 1, and the water level sensor 70 may be used to detect the attachment or detachment of the water supply tray 4. In other words, the water level sensor 70 may also serve as a tray detection unit. By having the water level sensor 70 or the rotational position detection unit 90 also function as a tray detection unit, an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed.

[0087] Furthermore, in a configuration in which the tray detection unit that detects the attachment and detachment (here, attachment and detachment) of the water supply tray 4 to and from the housing 1 is provided, the control unit 200 may output disposal notification information if the tray detection unit does not detect the attachment and detachment of the water supply tray 4 within a predetermined time after the humidification operation is switched from the ON state to the OFF state. With this configuration, for example, even if the control unit 200 receives an instruction from the user to switch the humidification operation from the OFF state to the ON state when old water remains in the water supply tray 4, it can urge the user to discard the old water remaining in the water supply tray 4. Note that the control unit 200 may also output replenishment notification information when outputting the disposal notification information. Furthermore, the humidifier 100 may or may not include the water level sensor 70.

[0088] In addition, in the configuration in which "the control unit 200 outputs disposal notification information if the tray detection unit does not detect the insertion or removal of the water supply tray 4 within a predetermined time period after switching the humidification operation from the on state to the off state," the control unit 200 may output disposal notification information again when it receives an instruction from the user to switch the humidification operation from the off state to the on state and the tray detection unit does not detect the insertion or removal of the water supply tray 4 within a predetermined period of time including the time when the instruction was received. With this configuration, it is possible to urge the user to discard water remaining in the water supply tray 4 that was not discarded in the previous notification (an alert issued after a predetermined time period has elapsed since switching from the on state to the off state). Note that the predetermined period of time including the time when the instruction was received may be a period from a certain time until the time when the instruction was received, or may further include a period after the instruction was received.

[0089] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which the humidifier 100 includes the water supply tank 51. In other words, in the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which water is replenished to the water supply tray 4 by replenishing water in the water supply tank 51. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the humidifier 100 does not have to include the water supply tank 51. In other words, the water supply tray may be a type in which water is replenished directly, without going through the water supply tank.

[0090] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example has been described in which humidifier 100 includes notification unit 81 that notifies notification information output by control unit 200, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, humidifier 100 may output notification information such as disposal notification information to a communication device such as a smartphone that can communicate with humidifier 100. Then, a notification unit such as a display screen of the communication device may notify the user of various notification information. Note that when the communication device notifies the user, humidifier 100 does not need to include notification unit 81.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the humidifying filter 3a rotates in the circumferential direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the humidifying filter may be a filter that is disposed in the water supply tray without rotating. [Industrial Applicability]

[0092] The present disclosure is useful in the field of humidifiers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1: Housing 3a: Humidification filter 4: Water supply tray 70: Water level sensor (tray detection part) 81: Information Department 100: Humidifier 200: Control section

Claims

1. A humidifying filter, a water supply tray that stores water and supplies water to the humidifying filter; a control unit capable of performing a humidifying operation to humidify the air with the water absorbed by the humidifying filter; Equipped with The humidifier, wherein the control unit outputs disposal notification information that prompts a user to discard water in the water supply tray when the humidification operation is switched from an on state to an off state.

2. a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the water supply tray; 2. The humidifier device according to claim 1, wherein when the humidification operation is on and the water level sensor detects a low water level state in which the water level in the water supply tray is below a predetermined water level, the control unit switches the humidification operation from on to off and outputs the disposal notification information.

3. When the water level sensor detects a low water level in the water supply tray while the humidification operation is in an on state, the control unit outputting replenishment notification information to prompt the user to replenish water; 3. The humidifier according to claim 2, wherein the disposal notification information is output when the water level sensor detects a low water level in the water supply tray after a predetermined time has elapsed since the replenishment notification information was output.

4. a housing that accommodates at least a portion of the water supply tray and to which the water supply tray is detachably attached; a tray detection unit that detects attachment and detachment of the water supply tray to and from the housing; Equipped with When the water level sensor detects a low water level in the water supply tray while the humidification operation is in an on state, the control unit outputting the replenishment notification information; The humidifier according to claim 3 , wherein the disposal notification information is output when the tray detection unit does not detect the attachment or detachment of the water supply tray within a predetermined time period after the output of the replenishment notification information.

5. a housing that accommodates at least a portion of the water supply tray and to which the water supply tray is detachably attached; a tray detection unit that detects attachment and detachment of the water supply tray to and from the housing; Equipped with 2. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein the control unit outputs the disposal notification information if the tray detection unit does not detect the attachment or detachment of the water supply tray within a predetermined time after the humidification operation is switched from an on state to an off state.

6. 6. The humidifier according to claim 5, wherein the control unit outputs the disposal notification information again if the control unit receives an instruction from a user to switch the humidification operation from an off state to an on state after outputting the disposal notification information, and if the tray detection unit does not detect the attachment or detachment of the water supply tray within a predetermined period including the time when the instruction was received.

7. a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the water supply tray; The humidifier according to claim 4 , wherein the water level sensor also serves as the tray detection unit.

8. 7. The humidifier according to claim 1, wherein, when an instruction to switch the humidification operation from an on state to an off state is received from a user, the control unit switches the humidification operation from an on state to an off state and outputs the disposal notification information.

9. The humidifier according to claim 1 , further comprising a notification unit that notifies the user of the disposal notification information output from the control unit.

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