Air blowers and textile products

Abstract

To provide a thin and reduced-sized air blower capable of sending temperature-adjusted air to a desired location, and a textile product equipped with the same. [Solution] A blower (100) for a textile product (200) has a case (1), which has an intake port (10), a first air outlet (11), and a second air outlet (12). The case (1) houses a fan (2) having a fan exhaust port (21), a Peltier element (3), a first heat conduction member (4) arranged on one side of the Peltier element (3), and a second heat conduction member (5) arranged on the other side of the Peltier element (3). The first heat conduction member (4) is arranged between the fan exhaust port (21) and the first air outlet (11). The second heat conduction member (5) is arranged between the fan exhaust port (21) and the second air outlet (12). The first air outlet (11) and the second air outlet (12) are arranged in different directions. The second air outlet (12) is arranged on the same plane as the intake port (10).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a blower including a Peltier element and a textile product equipped with a blower. [Background technology]

[0002] Clothing may be equipped with a fan. Functional clothing is known that includes a thermoelectric module attached to the clothing that absorbs and generates heat through the flow of current, at least one first heat sink attached to one side of the thermoelectric module, at least one second heat sink attached on the opposite side of the first heat sink relative to the thermoelectric module, and at least one first fan attached on the opposite side of the thermoelectric module relative to the first heat sink to blow air to the first heat sink. The first fan functions to facilitate smooth heat exchange between the thermoelectric module and the first heat sink (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2005-023506 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Although it is difficult to achieve this with the above-mentioned blower, there are cases where it is desired to send temperature-adjusted air to a specific location. Furthermore, considering that it can be attached to clothing, it is preferable that the air sending device be thin and small. It is necessary to make it even thinner and smaller in size than the devices combined with a heat sink and blower described in the prior art documents.

[0005] The present invention provides a thin, compact air blower capable of sending temperature-adjusted air to a desired location, and a textile product equipped with the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An exemplary textile blower of the present invention is attachable to a textile product. The textile blower has a case. The case has an inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The case houses at least one fan, a flat-plate Peltier element, a first thermally conductive member, and a second thermally conductive member. The at least one fan has a fan inlet and a fan outlet. The Peltier element is disposed facing the fan outlet. The first thermally conductive member is disposed on one side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the flat plate of the Peltier element. The second thermally conductive member is disposed on the other side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the flat plate of the Peltier element. The first thermally conductive member is disposed between the fan outlet and the first outlet. The second thermally conductive member is disposed between the fan outlet and the second outlet. The first outlet and the second outlet are disposed in different directions. The second outlet is disposed on the same surface as the inlet.

[0007] Another exemplary textile blower of the present invention is attachable to a textile product. The textile blower has a case. The case is provided with an intake port, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The case houses at least one fan, a flat-plate Peltier element, a first thermally conductive member, and a second thermally conductive member. The at least one fan is provided with a fan intake port and a fan exhaust port. The Peltier element is disposed facing the fan exhaust port. The first thermally conductive member is disposed on one side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the flat plate of the Peltier element. The second thermally conductive member is disposed on the other side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the flat plate of the Peltier element. The first thermally conductive member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the first outlet. The second thermally conductive member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the second outlet. The second outlet opens in the same direction as the intake port.

[0008] Furthermore, yet another exemplary textile blower of the present invention is attachable to a textile product. The textile blower has a case. The case has an intake port, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The case houses at least one fan, a flat-plate Peltier element, a first thermally conductive member, and a second thermally conductive member. The at least one fan has a fan intake port and a fan exhaust port. The Peltier element is disposed facing the fan exhaust port. The first thermally conductive member is disposed on one side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the flat plate of the Peltier element extends. The second thermally conductive member is disposed on the other side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the flat plate of the Peltier element extends. The first thermally conductive member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the first outlet. The second thermally conductive member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the second outlet. When attached to the textile product, the inlet and the second outlet open toward the side away from the human body.

[0009] An exemplary textile product of the present invention comprises the above-described textile blowing device.

[0010] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following embodiments. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the exemplary blower of the present invention, cooled or heated air can be sent to a desired location, and the blower can be made thinner, thereby reducing the size of the blower. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a blower according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a blower device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a blower device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a vapor chamber according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a vapor chamber according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a vapor chamber according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a blower according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a textile product according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a blower according to a first modified example. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vapor chamber according to the second modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a vapor chamber according to the third modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, a blower 100 according to an embodiment and a modified example of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 11. Note that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment, and can be modified as desired within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0014] An exemplary fan device 100 of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The drawings appropriately illustrate an XYZ coordinate system as a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system. In the XYZ coordinate system, the Z-axis direction represents the up-down direction (vertical direction). The Z-axis direction is the thickness direction of the fan device 100. The +Z direction is one side of the Z-axis direction, and the -Z direction is the other side. The Z-axis direction is also the direction in which a first heat conduction member 4 and a second heat conduction member 5 (described later) face each other, and is also the thickness direction of the Peltier element 3. The X-axis direction is a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction. Note that "orthogonal" includes "approximately orthogonal" and does not necessarily mean "strictly orthogonal." In this description, the X-axis direction is the longitudinal direction of the fan device 100. The +X direction is one side of the X-axis direction. The -X direction is the other side of the X-axis direction. The Y-axis direction is a direction perpendicular to both the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction. Note that "orthogonal" includes "approximately orthogonal" and does not necessarily mean "strictly orthogonal." In this description, the Y-axis direction is the lateral direction of the fan device 100. The +Y direction is one side of the Y-axis direction. The -Y direction is the other side of the X-axis direction. However, these directions are defined for the sake of convenience of explanation. These directions do not limit the orientation of the blower device 100 during manufacture or use. Furthermore, in this application, "parallel direction" also includes a substantially parallel direction.

[0015] 1. Configuration of the blower device 100 An exemplary air blower 100 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. The air blower 100 includes at least a case 1, a fan 2, a Peltier element 3, a first heat-conducting member 4, and a second heat-conducting member 5. FIGS. 1 to 3 are diagrams showing an example of the air blower 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 1 shows the appearance of the air blower 100. FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the air blower 100 taken along line AB shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the air blower 100 taken along line AB shown in FIG. 1, as seen from the direction of the solid arrow in FIG. 1. Line AB is parallel to the X-axis direction. FIGS. 4 and 5 show an example of a vapor chamber 6 according to an embodiment.

[0016] <1-1 Case 1> As shown in FIG. 1, case 1 includes an intake port 10, a first outlet 11, and a second outlet 12. Case 1 houses a fan 2, a Peltier element 3, a first heat conductive member 4, and a second heat conductive member 5. Fan device 100 draws in air (outside air) through intake port 10. Fan device 100 blows out cooled air from first outlet 11 and warmed air from second outlet 12. Alternatively, fan device 100 blows out warmed air from first outlet 11 and cool air from second outlet 12. The white arrows in FIG. 3 indicate the flow of air.

[0017] The first air outlet 11 is an air outlet for sending air to an object to be adjusted. The object to be adjusted is an object to which air with adjusted temperature is sent. For example, the object to be adjusted is clothing. Air blown out from the first air outlet 11 is sent into the clothing. The temperature inside the clothing can be adjusted. The second air outlet 12 is an air outlet for discharging air that has exchanged heat with the outside air (outside the object to be adjusted). Note that the second air outlet 12 may be an air outlet for sending air to an object to be adjusted in temperature, and the first air outlet 11 may be an air outlet for discharging air that has exchanged heat with the outside air.

[0018] FIG. 1 shows an example in which the intake port 10 is provided on one side of the widest surface of the case 1 (the XY plane, a surface perpendicular to the Z axis). However, as long as it can draw in air, the intake port 10 may be provided on a surface other than the widest surface of the case 1. For example, it may be provided on a surface of the case 1 perpendicular to the X direction or a surface perpendicular to the Y direction. The intake port 10 is provided according to the type of fan 2. FIG. 1 shows an example in which the first air outlet 11 is provided on the end of the case 1 in the X direction (the opposite side from the intake port 10). FIG. 1 shows an example in which the second air outlet 12 is provided on the same surface as the intake port 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the first air outlet 11 and the second air outlet 12 are arranged in different directions. In other words, the air outlets may blow in different directions. This allows air to be efficiently delivered to the target to be adjusted while efficiently expelling unwanted air. This allows air of different temperatures to be blown in different directions. Cold air and warm air do not mix. FIG. 1 shows an example in which the air blowing directions are 90 degrees apart. The difference in blowing direction is not limited to 90 degrees.

[0019] <1-2 Fan 2> The case 1 houses (builds in) at least one fan 2. The fan 2 has a fan inlet 20 and a fan exhaust port 21. The fan 2 draws in air through the inlet 10. The fan 2 blows out air through the first outlet 11 and the second outlet 12. The fan 2 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 is a so-called centrifugal fan. The fan 2 includes an impeller 23 and a motor (not shown) that rotates the impeller 23. When the motor rotates the impeller, the fan 2 draws in air through the inlet 10 and the fan inlet 20. In the example of FIGS. 2 and 3, air flows in the Z-axis direction at the inlet 10 (-Z → +Z). The fan 2 includes a fan exhaust port 21. The fan 2 blows out air through the fan exhaust port 21. The fan 2 blows out air in the X-axis direction (+X → -X).

[0020] 2 and 3 show an example in which the blower device 100 is equipped with one fan 2. However, the blower device 100 may be equipped with multiple fans 2. For example, a fan 2 that sends air toward the first air outlet 11 and a fan 2 that sends air toward the second air outlet 12 may be provided (two in total). Furthermore, the fan 2 of the blower device 100 is not limited to a centrifugal fan. For example, the fan 2 may be an axial fan.

[0021] <1-3 Peltier element 3> The case 1 houses the Peltier element 3. The Peltier element 3 is arranged facing the fan exhaust port 21. The Peltier element is flat. The Peltier element 3 has two substrates (flat plates). The top and bottom surfaces of the substrates are the widest surfaces of the Peltier element. The substrates extend parallel to the XY plane. The two flat plates of the Peltier element 3 are perpendicular to the Z-axis direction (the thickness direction of the fan 2 and the Peltier element 3). The temperatures of the two substrates change when a voltage is applied. Of the two substrates (flat plates) of the Peltier element 3, one surface (the lower surface in Figure 2) is referred to as one surface 31, and the other surface (the upper surface in Figure 2) is referred to as the other surface 32. In the direction in which the fan 2 blows air, the Peltier element 3 is arranged between the fan exhaust port 21 and the first air outlet 11, and between the fan exhaust port 21 and the second air outlet 12.

[0022] The Peltier element 3 is also referred to as a heat source module, thermo-module, or Peltier element. The Peltier element 3 is a semiconductor element. For example, the Peltier element 3 includes two substrates (flat plates), multiple p-type semiconductors, and multiple n-type semiconductors. For example, the substrates include at least a conductive layer and an insulating layer. The n-type semiconductor and the p-type semiconductor are arranged side by side between the two substrates. The conductive layer of each substrate contacts the respective semiconductor, and the conductive layers sandwich the respective semiconductors. The insulating layer is considered to be on the outside. The outer surface (insulating layer) of one substrate is one side 31. The outer surface (insulating layer) of the other substrate is the other side 32. When a DC voltage is applied to the substrates (conductive layers), one substrate (flat plate) absorbs heat and the other substrate generates heat. By switching the direction of the applied voltage, the heat-absorbing side and the heat-generating side can be switched.

[0023] 2 and 3, the Peltier element 3 is disposed in a position where one surface 31 and the other surface 32 are parallel to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The one surface 31 and the other surface 32 of the Peltier element 3 are perpendicular to the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) of the blower 100. The direction of the shortest side (thickness direction) of the case 1 coincides with the direction of the shortest side of the Peltier element 3. The one surface 31 and the other surface 32 generate or absorb heat.

[0024] <1-4 First heat conducting member 4 and second heat conducting member 5> A first heat conducting member 4 and a second heat conducting member 5 are disposed within a case 1. The case 1 accommodates the first heat conducting member 4. The first heat conducting member 4 is disposed on one side of the Peltier element 3 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the flat plate of the Peltier element 3 (thickness direction of the Peltier element 3). Specifically, the first heat conducting member 4 is attached to one surface 31 of the Peltier element 3. The case 1 also accommodates a second heat conducting member 5. The second heat conducting member 5 is disposed on the other side of the Peltier element 3 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the flat plate of the Peltier element 3 (thickness direction of the Peltier element 3). Specifically, the second heat conducting member 5 is attached to the other surface 32 of the Peltier element 3. Grease, adhesive, or double-sided tape with good thermal conductivity can be used to arrange (attach) the first heat conducting member 4 to the Peltier element 3 and the second heat conducting member 5 to the other surface 32 of the Peltier element 3. For example, grease or adhesive containing fine metal particles to enhance thermal conductivity can be used.

[0025] Then, first heat conducting member 4 is disposed between fan exhaust port 21 and first air outlet 11. As a result, first heat conducting member 4 comes into contact with air flowing from fan 2 toward first air outlet 11 when fan 2 is operating. Disposing first heat conducting member 4 between fan exhaust port 21 and first air outlet 11 includes disposing first heat conducting member 4 in the air flow path from fan exhaust port 21 to first air outlet 11. In blower device 100, the distance between first heat conducting member 4 and first air outlet 11 is closer than the distance between first heat conducting member 4 and second air outlet 12.

[0026] Furthermore, the second heat conductive member 5 is disposed between the fan exhaust port 21 and the second air outlet. As a result, the second heat conductive member 5 comes into contact with air flowing from the fan 2 toward the second air outlet 12 when the fan 2 is operating. Disposing the second heat conductive member 5 between the fan exhaust port 21 and the second air outlet 12 includes disposing the second heat conductive member 5 in the air flow path from the fan exhaust port 21 to the second air outlet 12. In the blower device 100, the distance between the second heat conductive member 5 and the second air outlet 12 is shorter than the distance between the second heat conductive member 5 and the first air outlet 11. This allows the Peltier element 3 to blow out cooled air. It is also possible to blow out heated air. Temperature-adjusted air can then be sent to a desired location. Furthermore, since the Peltier element 3 is used to adjust the temperature of the air, the blower device 100 can be made thinner. Compared to a case in which a heat sink is used, the size of the blower device 100 in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) can be made smaller.

[0027] At least one of the first heat conductive member 4 and the second heat conductive member 5 is a vapor chamber 6. The use of the vapor chamber 6 allows the blower 100 to be thinner than when a heat sink is used. This makes it possible to provide a thinner and smaller blower 100. The vapor chamber 6 can also be used to absorb heat in the air, allowing the heat generated by the Peltier element 3 to be efficiently discharged. Below, an example will be described in which the first heat conductive member 4 and the second heat conductive member 5 are vapor chambers 6. This allows the blower 100 to be as thin as possible. The use of the vapor chamber 6 also allows the heat from the heat source to be efficiently diffused.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 3 , the fan 2 of the blower 100 may be a centrifugal fan, and the rotation axis direction of the impeller of the centrifugal fan may be parallel to the thickness direction (Z direction) of the Peltier element 3. The Peltier element 3 to which the first heat conductive member 4 and the second heat conductive member 5 are attached may be disposed between the fan exhaust port 21 of the centrifugal fan and the first air outlet 11. This allows the centrifugal fan, Peltier element 3, first heat conductive member 4, and second heat conductive member 5 to be disposed in a position where the blower 100 is thinnest. This allows the blower 100 to be as thin as possible. The centrifugal fan, Peltier element 3, first heat conductive member 4, and second heat conductive member 5 can be disposed so that the blower 100 is thinnest.

[0029] Vapor chambers 6 of the same size and configuration (specifications) can be used for the first thermally conductive member 4 and the second thermally conductive member 5. The thickness (length in the Z-axis direction) of the vapor chambers 6 as the first thermally conductive member 4 and the second thermally conductive member 5 is, for example, 0.3 mm or more and less than 1 cm. Note that the vapor chambers 6 as the first thermally conductive member 4 and the vapor chambers 6 as the second thermally conductive member 5 may differ in size, surface area, and configuration.

[0030] Here, the vapor chamber 6 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the vapor chamber 6. For example, the vapor chamber 6 includes a first metal plate 61, a second metal plate 62, a pillar portion 63, a working medium, a first wick structure 64, a second wick structure 65, and a third wick structure 66. Note that in Figures 2 and 3, the first metal plate 61, the second metal plate 62, the pillar portion 63, the first wick structure 64, the second wick structure 65, the third wick structure 66, and the internal space 67 are not shown.

[0031] The first metal plate 61 and the second metal plate 62 are made of, for example, copper. The first metal plate 61 and the second metal plate 62 are made of a metal with high thermal conductivity. A metal other than copper may be used. The first metal plate 61 has a rectangular flat surface 61a extending horizontally in a plan view (viewed from the Z-axis direction). The first metal plate 61 has a first side wall portion 61b extending downward from the periphery of the flat surface 61a. The second metal plate 62 also has a rectangular flat surface 62a extending horizontally in a bottom view (viewed from the Z-axis direction). The second metal plate 62 has a second side wall portion 62b extending upward from the periphery of the flat surface. The lower surface of the first side wall portion 61b and the upper surface of the second side wall portion 62b are joined together. The joined first metal plate 61 and second metal plate 62 form the housing of the vapor chamber 6.

[0032] An internal space 67 is formed inside the joined first metal plate 61 and second metal plate 62. Pillars 63 that support the first metal plate 61 and the second metal plate 62 are provided in the internal space 67. The internal space 67 is surrounded by the first metal plate 61 and the second metal plate 62. The internal space 67 is an enclosed space. A working medium is accommodated in the internal space 67. The working medium is water, alcohol, or another liquid.

[0033] The first wick structure 64 is disposed on the inner surface of the first metal plate 61 and faces the internal space 67. The second wick structure 65 is disposed on the inner surface of the second metal plate 62 and faces the internal space 67. The third wick structure 66 is columnar. The third wick structure 66 is disposed within the internal space 67 and supports the first wick structure 64 and the second wick structure 65. The first wick structure 64, the second wick structure 65, and the third wick structure 66 are porous sintered bodies and are integrally formed. Each wick structure has a void (not shown). The void serves as a flow path for the working medium. Due to capillary action caused by the void, the working medium permeates and moves through each wick structure. The working medium also moves from the first wick structure 64 and the third wick structure 66 toward the second wick structure 65. The first wick structure 64 and the second wick structure 65 may be mesh members made of woven metal wires. The wick structure may be disposed only on the heat source side. For example, the first wick structure 64 may not be provided. Also, the sintered pillar (third wick structure 66) may not be provided. In other words, a vapor chamber 6 may be used in which either or both of the first wick structure 64 and the sintered pillar (third wick structure 66) are not disposed.

[0034] The second metal plate 62 contacts one side 31 or the other side 32 of the Peltier element 3. When the heat-generating surface of the Peltier element 3 contacts the second metal plate 62, the heat of the Peltier element 3 vaporizes the working medium in the second wick structure 65. The vaporized working medium condenses in the first wick structure 64 or the third wick structure 66. Heat is released from the first metal plate 61 in contact with the first wick structure 64. The condensed working medium returns to the second wick structure 65 via the third wick structure 66 or through the gap based on capillary action. On the other hand, when the heat-absorbing surface of the Peltier element 3 contacts the second metal plate 62, the Peltier element 3 cools the second metal plate 62, and the temperature of the first metal plate 61 in contact with the second metal plate 62 drops. As a result, the air in contact with the first metal plate 61 in the vapor chamber 6 is cooled.

[0035] In this description, the vapor chamber 6 attached to one surface 31 of the Peltier element 3 may be referred to as the first vapor chamber 6a. That is, the vapor chamber 6 serving as the first thermally conductive member 4 may be referred to as the first vapor chamber 6a. The vapor chamber 6 attached to the other surface 32 of the Peltier element 3 may be referred to as the second vapor chamber 6b. The vapor chamber 6 serving as the second thermally conductive member 5 may be referred to as the second vapor chamber 6b. When attached to the Peltier element 3, the second metal plate 62 of the first vapor chamber 6a contacts the one surface 31 of the Peltier element 3. The second metal plate 62 of the second vapor chamber 6b contacts the other surface 32 of the Peltier element 3. Therefore, the front and back of the first vapor chamber 6a and the second vapor chamber 6b are reversed in the Z-axis direction.

[0036] Here, the area of ​​the surface (flat surface 62a) of the first heat conducting member 4 (first vapor chamber 6a) in contact with the Peltier element 3 may be larger than the area of ​​the surface (flat plate) of the Peltier element 3 in contact with the first heat conducting member 4. Also, the area of ​​the surface (flat surface 62a) of the second heat conducting member 5 (second vapor chamber 6b) in contact with the Peltier element 3 may be larger than the area of ​​the surface (flat plate) of the Peltier element 3 in contact with the second heat conducting member 5 (see FIG. 5). This allows one surface 31 of the Peltier element 3 to be covered by the first heat conducting member 4. Also, the other surface 32 of the Peltier element 3 can be covered by the second heat conducting member 5. When the Peltier element 3 is energized, the first heat conducting member 4 and the second heat conducting member 5 can sufficiently exchange heat with the Peltier element 3.

[0037] More specifically, when the surface of each paper chamber that contacts the Peltier element 3 is viewed from the front (when viewed from the Z-axis direction), the area of ​​the second wick structure 65 may be larger than the area of ​​the surface of the Peltier element 3 that contacts the vapor chamber 6. In other words, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the outer peripheral edge of the second wick structure 65 surrounds the outer periphery of one surface 31 or the outer peripheral edge of the other surface 32 of the Peltier element 3. This makes it possible to minimize heat loss during heat exchange between the Peltier element 3 and the vapor chamber 6.

[0038] A first passage 71 that directs air from the fan 2 to the first air outlet 11 and a second passage 72 that directs air from the fan 2 to the second air outlet 12 are provided within the case 1. A portion of the inner surface of the case 1 and the first heat conductive member 4 form part of the wall surface of the first passage 71. A portion of the inner surface of the case 1 and the second heat conductive member 5 form part of the wall surface of the second passage 72. In the example of FIG. 3 , a branch section 13 is provided at the end (end in the +X direction, upstream of the air flow) of the first heat conductive member 4 and the second heat conductive member 5. For example, the branch section 13 has a triangular prism shape and extends in the Y-axis direction. The branch section 13 guides (directs) a portion of the air from the fan 2 to the first passage 71. The branch section 13 guides (directs) the remaining air from the fan 2 to the second passage 72. The space from branching portion 13 to first air outlet 11 is separated from the space from branching portion 13 to second air outlet 12. Inside case 1, the air in first passage 71 and the air in second passage 72 do not mix downstream from branching portion 13. Cooled air and warmed air can be discharged separately.

[0039] <1-5 Insulation> To efficiently transfer and exchange heat, as shown in FIG. 3 , the air blower includes a heat insulating material 8 in direct contact with the first heat conducting member 4 and the second heat conducting member 5. In other words, the heat insulating material 8 may be disposed in the gap between the first heat conducting member 4 and the second heat conducting member 5. By disposing the heat insulating material 8, heat transfer between the heating surface and the cooling surface of the Peltier element 3 and between the heat conducting members can be prevented. The heat insulating material 8 is made of a material with a thermal conductivity lower than that of at least each of the heat conducting members. For example, a sponge with a low thermal conductivity can be used as the heat insulating material 8. This reduces the amount of heat absorbed by the Peltier element 3 from parts other than the heat conducting members. Furthermore, the amount of heat generated by the Peltier element 3 that is transferred to parts other than the heat conducting members can be reduced. This reduces energy loss during air temperature adjustment.

[0040] Furthermore, to prevent the cooled air (air in the first passage 71 or the second passage 72) from being heated and the temperature of the case 1 from rising, a heat insulating sheet 80 may be placed on at least one of the areas of the inner surface of the case 1 facing the first heat conductive member 4 and the area facing the second heat conductive member 5. FIG. 3 shows an example in which the heat insulating sheet 80 is placed in both areas. This prevents the heat of the case 1 from being transferred to the cooled air. Alternatively, it prevents a temperature rise outside the case 1. The temperature of the air in contact with each heat conductive member can be maintained. A sheet with a lower thermal conductivity than the case 1 can be used for the heat insulating sheet 80. The installation range of the heat insulating sheet 80 may extend beyond these areas.

[0041] <1-6 Support part> Supports may be provided to hold (support) the combination of the Peltier element 3, the first thermally conductive member 4, and the second thermally conductive member 5 at a fixed position. Specifically, a first support 14a connecting the inner surface of the case 1 to the first thermally conductive member 4 and a second support 14b connecting the inner surface of the case 1 to the second thermally conductive member 5 may be provided. The first support 14a and the second support 14b support the Peltier element 3, the first thermally conductive member 4, and the second thermally conductive member 5. The first support 14a and the second support 14b may have lower thermal conductivity than the Peltier element 3, the first thermally conductive member 4, and the second thermally conductive member 5. This makes it difficult for heat from the support to be transferred to the cooled air. This also makes it difficult for the temperature of the cooled air to rise. This also makes it possible to prevent heat from the heated air from escaping to the case 1 via the support.

[0042] In the example of FIG. 3 , the first support portion 14a connects the first heat conducting member 4 to the inner surface of the case 1 facing the first heat conducting member 4 in the Z-axis direction. The second support portion 14b connects the second heat conducting member 5 to the inner surface of the case 1 facing the second heat conducting member 5 in the Z-axis direction. The first support portion 14a and the second support portion 14b are cylindrical or polygonal prisms. For example, the first support portion 14a is provided at four corners and the center of the surface of the first heat conducting member 4 opposite to the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3. The second support portion 14b is provided at four corners and the center of the surface of the second heat conducting member 5 opposite to the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3. The first support portion 14a and the second support portion 14b function as pillars to increase the strength of the case 1 in the Z-axis direction.

[0043] <2. Specific Configuration of Vapor Chamber 6> Next, an example of a specific configuration of the vapor chamber 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the vapor chamber 6 according to the embodiment. To efficiently cool or heat air, it is preferable that the contact area between the vapor chamber 6 and the air is large. Therefore, the surface opposite to the surface contacting the Peltier element 3 of the vapor chamber 6 (first vapor chamber 6a and second vapor chamber 6b) of the blower device 100 according to the embodiment is provided with at least one protrusion 9a. In other words, the protrusion 9a may be provided on the first metal plate 61. This increases the surface area of ​​the vapor chamber 6. Since the contact area with the air is increased, heat in the air can be efficiently absorbed, and the air can be efficiently cooled. In addition, heat generated by the Peltier element 3 can be efficiently discharged.

[0044] To actively increase the contact area with air, multiple protrusions 9a may be arranged on the surface of the vapor chamber 6 opposite the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3. This increases the surface area as much as possible while increasing the strength of the vapor chamber 6. Furthermore, the protrusions 9a are distributed over a certain wide range. This allows the surface area to be increased over a wide range. The vapor chamber 6 can efficiently exchange heat with air.

[0045] FIG. 6 shows an example in which circular protrusions 9a (projections) are provided as viewed in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) of the vapor chamber 6. Adding a leader line and a symbol to each protrusion 9a would make the diagram difficult to see. Therefore, for convenience, in FIG. 6, a single symbol 9a is attached to the group that encloses all of the protrusions 9a. Each circular figure within the dashed line represents a protrusion 9a. For example, the protrusions 9a protrude semicircularly from the flat surface 61a of the first metal plate 61 as viewed in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction (see FIG. 3). For example, the protrusions 9a can be formed by sheet metal processing, in which a die with protrusions is used to press the inner surface of the first metal plate 61 (the surface facing the internal space 67). FIG. 6 shows an example in which multiple rows and columns of protrusions 9a are provided. The protrusions 9a may be provided over the entire surface opposite the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3. The shape of the protrusions 9a as viewed in the Z-axis direction is not limited to a circle. The shape of the protrusion 9a as viewed from the Z-axis direction may be polygonal, elliptical, or elongated.

[0046] <3. Operation control> Next, an example of operational control of the air blower 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the air blower 100 according to the embodiment. The outline arrows in Fig. 7 indicate power supply paths.

[0047] The blower 100 includes a control unit 101. The control unit 101 is a board including multiple circuits and elements. The control unit 101 is disposed inside the case 1 (see FIG. 3). The control unit 101 includes a control circuit 102 and a communication circuit 103. A battery 104 is also connected to the blower 100. The battery 104 may be separate from the blower 100. The battery 104 may also be attached to the case 1. Power is supplied to the control unit 101 from the battery 104.

[0048] The control circuit 102 controls the operation of the fan 2 and the Peltier element 3. The communication circuit 103 is a circuit for performing wireless communication. For example, the communication circuit 103 includes an antenna, a communication control circuit, and a memory. The communication circuit 103 performs wireless communication with an operation device of the blower 100. For example, the operation device is a PC (computer), a smartphone, or a tablet computer. For example, the communication circuit 103 performs communication with the operation device in accordance with the Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard. The communication circuit 103 receives ON instructions and OFF instructions for the operation of the blower 100 from the operation device. When the communication circuit 103 receives an ON instruction, the control circuit 102 operates the fan 2 and the Peltier element 3. When the communication circuit 103 receives an OFF instruction, the control circuit 102 stops the fan 2 and the Peltier element 3.

[0049] When rotating the fan 2 to blow air, the control circuit 102 turns on the fan switch 105. The fan switch 105 is provided inside the case 1. For example, the fan switch 105 is a semiconductor switch. This allows power to be supplied from the battery 104, causing the fan 2 to rotate. When stopping the fan 2, the control circuit 102 turns off the fan switch 105. This cuts off the power supply from the battery 104, causing the fan 2 to stop. When operating the Peltier element 3, the control circuit 102 turns on the voltage control switch 106. The voltage control switch 106 is provided inside the case 1. For example, the voltage control switch 106 is a circuit combining multiple semiconductor switches. This allows power to be supplied from the battery 104, causing the Peltier element 3 to start absorbing and generating heat. When stopping the operation of the Peltier element 3, the control circuit 102 turns off the voltage control switch 106. This cuts off the power supply from the battery 104, causing the Peltier element 3 to stop.

[0050] The voltage control switch 106 can switch which of the two conductive layers of the Peltier element 3 to apply a positive voltage to. When cooling the air to be blown out from the first air outlet 11, the voltage control switch 106 applies a voltage so that one surface 31 of the Peltier element 3 (the surface in contact with the first thermal conductive member 4) absorbs heat. In this case, heated air is blown out from the second air outlet 12. Conversely, when heating the air to be blown out from the first air outlet 11, the voltage control switch 106 applies a voltage so that one surface 31 of the Peltier element 3 (the surface in contact with the first thermal conductive member 4) generates heat. In this case, cooled air is blown out from the second air outlet 12. The communication circuit 103 receives an instruction from the operating device as to whether to cool or heat the air to be blown out from the first air outlet 11. When a cooling instruction is received, the control circuit 102 controls the voltage control switch 106 to cool the air to be blown out from the first air outlet 11. When a heating instruction is received, the control circuit 102 controls the voltage control switch 106 to heat the air to be blown out from the first air outlet 11.

[0051] <4. Textile Products 200> An example of an exemplary textile product 200 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the textile product 200 according to the embodiment. The textile product 200 according to the embodiment includes a blower 100. This allows cool or warm air to be blown into the interior of the textile product 200. For example, heatstroke can be prevented. Furthermore, the temperature inside the textile product 200 can be maintained at a comfortable temperature depending on the season and temperature. This increases the value of the textile product 200. In the following, clothing will be used as an example of the textile product 200. For example, the blower 100 can be attached to clothing such as casual clothes, work clothes, and workwear. In this description, clothing worn on the upper body will be used as an example. However, the blower 100 may also be attached to pants.

[0052] Furthermore, the textile product 200 does not have to be clothing. For example, the air blower 100 may be attached to a baby carrier (sling) for an infant. The air blown out from the air blower 100 can cool or warm the infant. The textile product 200 may also be a bag such as a backpack. The textile product 200 may also be a futon cover or a futon sheet. The textile product 200 to which the air blower 100 is attached is not limited to an item that is worn or carried.

[0053] FIG. 8 shows an example of clothing with a blower 100 attached. FIG. 8 shows an example in which the blower 100 is attached to the right chest. The blower 100 may also be attached to other locations, such as the back. For example, the clothing may be provided with an attachment portion 201 for attaching the blower 100. The attachment portion 201 holds the blower 100 and prevents the blower 100 from being unintentionally removed. The intake port 10 faces away from the human body so that air can be inhaled. Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the intake port 10 may not be covered by clothing or fabric. If the intake port 10 is covered, it is covered with a breathable material such as a mesh material.

[0054] In the example of FIG. 8, air blown out from the first air outlet 11 is sent into the clothing. In order to allow the air blown out from the first air outlet 11 to enter the inside of the clothing, the first air outlet 11 may be connected to the inside of the clothing by a tube. Alternatively, a slit may be made in the clothing, and the air from the first air outlet 11 may enter the inside of the clothing through the slit. Also, the clothing may be provided with an exhaust port 202 for blowing the air blown out from the second air outlet 12 to the outside (the side opposite the human body). For example, the second air outlet 12 and the exhaust port 202 are connected. Also, the second air outlet 12 may protrude from the exhaust port 202.

[0055] <5. First Modification> Next, a first modified example of the air blower 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an air blower 100a according to the first modified example. In the air blower 100a according to the first modified example, one of the first heat conductive member 4 and the second heat conductive member 5 is a vapor chamber 6, and the other is another heat conductive member. In other respects, it is the same as the air blower 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 shows an example in which a heat sink 6c is used as the first heat conductive member 4, and a vapor chamber 6 is used as the second heat conductive member 5.

[0056] <6. Second Modification> Next, a second modified example of the blower 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a vapor chamber 6C according to the second modified example. In the blower 100 according to the second modified example, the surface of the vapor chamber 6C opposite to the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3 is provided with at least one recess 9b. In other words, the recess 9b may be provided in the first metal plate 61. This increases the surface area of ​​the vapor chamber 6C. As the contact area with the air increases, heat in the air can be efficiently absorbed and the air can be efficiently cooled. In addition, heat generated by the Peltier element 3 can be efficiently discharged.

[0057] To actively increase the contact area with air, multiple recesses 9b may be arranged on the surface of the vapor chamber 6C opposite the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3. This increases the surface area as much as possible while increasing the strength of the vapor chamber 6C. Furthermore, the recesses 9b are distributed over a wide area. This increases the surface area over a wide area. The vapor chamber 6C can efficiently exchange heat with air. Adding a lead line and a symbol to each recess 9b would make it difficult to see. Therefore, for convenience, in FIG. 10, a single symbol 9b is assigned to a group that encompasses all of the recesses 9b. Each square within the dashed line indicates a recess 9b (groove). The recess 9b shown in FIG. 10 has a trapezoidal cross section in the XZ plane. The recess 9b protrudes from the inner surface of the first metal plate 61. For example, the recess 9b can be formed by sheet metal processing, in which a die with a protrusion is used to press the surface of the first metal plate 61 that contacts air (the surface opposite the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3). Alternatively, the recesses 9b may be formed by sheet metal processing such as cutting or engraving the first metal plate 61. Fig. 10 shows an example in which multiple rows and columns of recesses 9b are provided. The recesses 9b may be provided over the entire surface opposite to the surface in contact with the Peltier element 3.

[0058] <7.Third Modification> Next, a third modified example of the blower device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 11 . FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a vapor chamber 6D according to the third modified example. In the blower device 100 according to the third modified example, the surface of the vapor chamber 6D opposite to the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3 includes at least one recess 9b and one protrusion 9a. In other words, both the recess 9b and the protrusion 9a may be provided on the first metal plate 61. Adding leading lines and symbols to each protrusion 9a and recess 9b can make the image difficult to see. For convenience, in FIG. 11 , a single symbol 9b is assigned to a group surrounding a row of recesses 9b. Similarly, a single symbol 9a is assigned to a group surrounding a row of protrusions 9a. Specifically, multiple recesses 9b and multiple protrusions 9a may be arranged on the surface of the vapor chamber 6D opposite to the surface that contacts the Peltier element 3. This increases the surface area of ​​the vapor chamber 6D while increasing its strength. Moreover, the recesses 9b are distributed over a certain wide range, which increases the surface area over a wide range, and the vapor chamber 6D can efficiently exchange heat with the air.

[0059] Although the embodiments and modifications of the present invention have been described, the configurations and their combinations in the embodiments are merely examples, and additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications of the configurations are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments. [Industrial Applicability]

[0060] The present invention may be used in devices that pump air to cool or warm an object. [Explanation of symbols]

[0061] 100 Blower 100a air blower 1 case 10 Intake port 11 1st outlet 12 2nd outlet 2 fans 20 Fan intake 21 Fan exhaust port 3 Peltier element 4. First thermal conductive member 5 Second heat conductive member 6 Vapor Chamber 6a First vapor chamber 6b Second vapor chamber 6C Vapor Chamber 6D Vapor Chamber 8. Insulation 80 Heat insulation sheet 14a 1st support part 14b Second support part 9a Convex part 9b Recess 200 Textile products

Claims

1. A textile product air blower that can be attached to the textile product, a case having an intake port, a first outlet, and a second outlet; The case is at least one fan having a fan inlet and a fan outlet; a flat-plate-shaped Peltier element disposed opposite the fan exhaust port; a first heat conduction member disposed on one side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the flat plate of the Peltier element extends; a second heat conducting member disposed on the other side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the flat plate of the Peltier element extends; the first heat conduction member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the first air outlet, the second heat conduction member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the second air outlet, The first air outlet and the second air outlet are arranged in different directions, The second air outlet is disposed on the same surface as the air inlet.

2. A textile product air blower that can be attached to the textile product, a case having an intake port, a first outlet, and a second outlet; The case is at least one fan having a fan inlet and a fan outlet; a flat-plate-shaped Peltier element disposed opposite the fan exhaust port; a first heat conduction member disposed on one side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the flat plate of the Peltier element extends; a second heat conducting member disposed on the other side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the flat plate of the Peltier element extends; the first heat conduction member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the first air outlet, the second heat conduction member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the second air outlet, The first air outlet and the second air outlet are arranged in different directions, The second air outlet is open in the same direction as the air inlet.

3. A textile product air blower that can be attached to the textile product, a case having an intake port, a first outlet, and a second outlet; The case is at least one fan having a fan inlet and a fan outlet; a flat-plate-shaped Peltier element disposed opposite the fan exhaust port; a first heat conduction member disposed on one side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the flat plate of the Peltier element extends; a second heat conducting member disposed on the other side of the Peltier element in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the flat plate of the Peltier element extends; the first heat conduction member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the first air outlet, the second heat conduction member is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the second air outlet, The first air outlet and the second air outlet are arranged in different directions, When the textile product blower is attached to the textile product, the inlet and the second outlet are open to a side away from a human body.

4. The textile product blower according to claim 1 , wherein at least one of the first heat conducting member and the second heat conducting member is a vapor chamber.

5. The textile product blower according to claim 4, wherein the vapor chamber has at least one protrusion on a surface opposite to the surface in contact with the Peltier element.

6. The textile product blower according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of protrusions are arranged on a surface of the vapor chamber opposite to a surface that contacts the Peltier element.

7. The textile product blower according to claim 2 , wherein the vapor chamber has at least one recess on a surface opposite to the surface in contact with the Peltier element.

8. The textile product blower according to claim 7 , wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged on a surface of the vapor chamber opposite to a surface in contact with the Peltier element.

9. an area of ​​a surface of the first heat conducting member in contact with the Peltier element is larger than an area of ​​a surface of the Peltier element in contact with the first heat conducting member; The textile product blower according to claim 1 , wherein the area of ​​the surface of the second heat conducting member that contacts the Peltier element is larger than the area of ​​the surface of the Peltier element that contacts the second heat conducting member.

10. The air blower for textile products according to claim 9 , further comprising a heat insulating material in direct contact with the first heat conducting member and the second heat conducting member.

11. A textile product blower device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein an insulating sheet is arranged on at least one of the areas of the inner surface of the case facing the first heat conduction member and the areas facing the second heat conduction member.

12. The fan is a centrifugal fan, The direction of the rotation axis of the impeller of the centrifugal fan and the thickness direction of the Peltier element are parallel to each other, The textile product blower according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the Peltier element to which the first heat conductive member and the second heat conductive member are attached is disposed between the fan exhaust port and the first air outlet.

13. a first support portion connecting the inner surface of the case and the first thermal conductive member; a second support portion connecting the inner surface of the case and the second heat conducting member; Equipped with The first support portion and the second support portion are Supports the Peltier element, the first heat conducting member, and the second heat conducting member; The textile product blower according to claim 1 , wherein the Peltier element, the first heat conducting member, and the second heat conducting member have a lower thermal conductivity than the Peltier element, the first heat conducting member, and the second heat conducting member.

14. The air blower for textile products according to claim 1 , wherein a branch portion is provided at an upstream end of the first heat conducting member and the second heat conducting member in the air flow direction.

15. The air blowing device for textile products according to claim 14, wherein the branching portion has a triangular prism shape.

16. A textile product comprising the air blowing device of the textile device according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

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