Retaining frame, filter unit, and humidifier

Abstract

The present invention provides a retaining frame that prevents water droplets accumulated on the ribs from scattering to the outside. [Solution] A retaining frame according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a retaining frame that holds a humidifying filter and rotates about a rotation axis, comprising: an opposing portion facing the humidifying filter in the axial direction of the rotation axis; and a rib that protrudes from the opposing portion toward the opposite side of the humidifying filter in the axial direction of the rotation axis and is formed to surround the rotation axis, wherein the rib has an opening that connects the inner side which is on the rotation axis side with the outer side which is opposite to the inner side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a holding frame, a filter unit, and a humidifying device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a humidifying device that vaporizes moisture contained in a humidifying filter by blowing air while rotating a humidifying filter unit including a humidifying filter and a holding frame that holds the humidifying filter, and discharges the vaporized moisture to the outside (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the humidifying device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the holding frame protrudes downstream of the wind from the humidifying filter and has an annular rib that surrounds the rotation center of the humidifying filter.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the humidifying device disclosed in Patent Document 1, due to the suction force from the blower, the moisture contained in the humidifying filter scatters onto the rib (annular rib), and the water droplets accumulated on the rib may scatter to the outside due to the influence of wind and pressure.

[0005] Therefore, an aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide, for example, a holding frame, a filter unit, and a humidifying device that suppress the scattering of water droplets accumulated on the rib to the outside.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A retaining frame according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a retaining frame that holds a humidifying filter and rotates about a rotation axis, comprising: an opposing portion facing the humidifying filter in the axial direction of the rotation axis; and a rib that protrudes from the opposing portion toward the opposite side of the humidifying filter in the axial direction of the rotation axis and is formed to surround the rotation axis, wherein the rib has an opening that connects the inner side, which is on the rotation axis side, with the outer side opposite to the inner side.

[0007] A filter unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a retaining frame and a humidifying filter held by the retaining frame.

[0008] A humidifier according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a filter unit, a water storage tray disposed below the filter unit for storing water, and a rotating mechanism for rotating the filter unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a humidifier. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view of a humidifier. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the humidifying unit. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view of the humidifying section. [Figure 5] This is a disassembled perspective view of the filter unit. [Figure 6A] This is a perspective view of the frame. [Figure 6B] This is a front view of the frame. [Figure 6C] This is a rear view of the frame. [Figure 6D] This is a plan view of the frame. [Figure 6E] This is a bottom view of the frame. [Figure 6F] This is a left side view of the frame. [Figure 6G] This is a right side view of the frame. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the frame. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions are omitted.

[0011] The humidifying device 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the humidifying device 1. In FIG. 1, a perspective view showing a state in which the humidifying unit 5 described later is removed from the humidifying device 1 is shown. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the humidifying device 1. Hereinafter, the side where the suction port 24A is provided will be referred to as the rear side, the opposite side as the front side, the side on which the humidifying device 1 is placed as the lower side, and the opposite side as the upper side for explanation. Note that the above directions do not define the directions during the use of the humidifying device 1, but are defined for ease of understanding of the humidifying device 1.

[0012] The humidifying device 1 sucks air from the suction port 24A, purifies the sucked air, humidifies the purified air, and blows out the humidified air from the blowout port (at least one of the first blowout port 21A and the second blowout port 23A) (see FIG. 2). That is, the humidifying device 1 has a humidifying function of humidifying the indoor air in addition to a purifying function of purifying the indoor air. Note that the humidifying device 1 only needs to have at least a humidifying function.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the humidifying device 1 includes a housing 2, a rear panel 3, a purification unit 4, a humidifying unit 5, a rotation mechanism 6, and a blower 7.

[0014] The housing 2 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped outer shape. The housing 2 has an upper surface portion 21, a lower surface portion 22, a front surface portion 23, a rear surface portion 24, a left surface portion 25, and a right surface portion 26.

[0015] A suction port 24A is formed in the rear surface portion 24 of the housing 2. A first blowout port 21A is formed in the upper surface portion 21 of the housing 2. A second blowout port 23A is formed in the front surface portion 23 of the housing 2.

[0016] Inside the housing 2, an air passage 27 is formed from the suction port 24A to the first air outlet 21A and the second air outlet 23A. The air passage 27 includes a filter housing portion 27A and a blowing passage 27B. The filter housing portion 27A and the blowing passage 27B communicate with each other.

[0017] The filter housing portion 27A is a housing space that extends from the suction port 24A to the blower 7 and houses the purification unit 4 and the humidification unit 5. The filter housing portion 27A communicates with the outside of the humidifying device 1 through the suction port 24A.

[0018] In the filter housing portion 27A, a partition wall 28 is provided to separate the space for housing the purification unit 4 and the space for housing the humidification unit 5. A plurality of holes (not shown) are formed in the partition wall 28 to allow the air purified by the purification unit 4 to pass through toward the humidification unit 5.

[0019] The blowing passage 27B is a passage that extends from the blower 7 to the first air outlet 21A and the second air outlet 23A. The blowing passage 27B branches midway toward each of the first air outlet 21A and the second air outlet 23A. A damper (not shown) is arranged at the branch portion of the blowing passage 27B so that the direction of the air flow can be changed toward the first air outlet 21A, the second air outlet 23A, or both the first air outlet 21A and the second air outlet 23A. In addition, a wind direction plate (not shown) is provided at each of the first air outlet 21A and the second air outlet 23A so that the direction in which air is blown out from each air outlet can be changed.

[0020] The rear panel 3 has a plate-like shape. The rear panel 3 is detachable so as to cover the suction port 24A from the outside. A plurality of holes 3A are formed in the rear panel 3. The holes 3A penetrate the rear panel 3 in the thickness direction. The holes 3A allow the air sucked into the suction port 24A to pass through.

[0021] The purification unit 4 allows the air flowing through the air passage 27 to pass through and purifies the passing air. The purification unit 4 includes a deodorizing filter 41 and a dust collecting filter 42. The purification unit 4 is arranged inside the filter housing portion 27A.

[0022] The deodorizing filter 41 has a plate-like shape. The deodorizing filter 41 passes air flowing through the air passage 27 through it and removes odor components contained in the air that passes through it. The odor components to be removed include acetaldehyde, ammonia, acetic acid, etc.

[0023] The dust collection filter 42 has a plate-like shape. The dust collection filter 42 passes the air flowing through the air supply passage 27 through it and removes dust contained in the air passing through it.

[0024] The humidifying unit 5 is located within the filter housing 27A. The humidifying unit 5 passes air flowing through the air supply passage 27, bringing the air into contact with water to humidify it.

[0025] The rotating mechanism 6 rotates the filter unit 100, which will be described later and constitutes the humidifying unit 5. The rotating mechanism 6 comprises a motor 6A and a gear 6B. The motor 6A is fixed inside the housing 2. The gear 6B is fixed to the output shaft of the motor 6A and rotates when driven by the motor 6A.

[0026] The blower 7 is positioned within the air passage 27. The blower 7 generates an airflow from the intake port 24A through the air passage 27 toward the outlet (at least one of the first outlet 21A and the second outlet 23A). The blower 7 is, for example, a sirocco fan and comprises a motor 71 and a fan 72.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, the humidifying unit 5 is detachably mounted on the humidifying device 1. An opening 26A is formed in the right side 26 of the housing 2. The humidifying unit 5 is detachably mounted to the housing 2 via the opening 26A. The humidifying unit 5 includes a water storage tray 51 (described later), a water supply tank 52, and an outer panel 26B. The outer panel 26B is attached to the water supply tank 52. When the water supply tank 52 is attached to the water storage tray 51, the right side of the outer panel 26B and the water storage tray 51 are approximately flush. When the humidifying unit 5 is mounted on the housing 2, the opening 26A is closed so that the right side of the outer panel 26B and the water storage tray 51 are approximately flush with the right side 26 of the housing 2. A handle is also provided on the right side of the water storage tank 51. The user can remove the humidifier unit 5 from the housing 2 by grasping the handle of the water storage tank 51 and pulling it to the right.

[0028] The specific configuration of the humidification unit 5 will be explained using Figures 2 to 4. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the humidification unit 5. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the humidification unit 5. In Figure 4, the water supply tank 52 is not shown.

[0029] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the humidifying unit 5 comprises a water storage tray 51, a water supply tank 52, a filter unit 100, a first roller 53, and a second roller 54.

[0030] The water storage tray 51 stores water. The water storage tray 51 is a tray with an open top and its length is oriented horizontally.

[0031] The water supply tank 52 supplies the water it stores inside to the water storage tray 51. By positioning the water supply tank 52 on the water storage tray 51, it is possible to supply water to the water storage tray 51.

[0032] The filter unit 100 has a disc-like shape. The lower part of the filter unit 100 is immersed in the water stored in the water storage tray 51, thereby absorbing the stored water. The upper part of the filter unit 100 is positioned in the air supply passage 27, allowing the air flowing through the air supply passage 27 to pass through.

[0033] As shown in Figure 4, the gear 6B, the first roller 53, and the second roller 54 hold the outer circumferential surface of the filter unit 100 at three points. More specifically, the gear 6B meshes with the teeth T1, described later, provided on the outer circumferential surface of the filter unit 100, and the first roller 53 and the second roller 54 rotatably support the outer circumferential surface of the filter unit 100, thereby holding the filter unit 100 so that it can rotate around its rotation axis A1.

[0034] Gear 6B is located outside the water storage tray 51. Specifically, gear 6B is located above the axis of rotation A1 on the outer circumferential surface of the filter unit 100. The first roller 53 and the second roller 54 are located inside the water storage tray 51. Specifically, the first roller 53 is located below and to the left of the axis of rotation A1 on the outer circumferential surface of the filter unit 100, and the second roller 54 is located below and to the right of the axis of rotation A1 on the outer circumferential surface of the filter unit 100.

[0035] In the above configuration, when the rotating mechanism 6 rotates the filter unit 100, the lower part of the filter unit 100 that has absorbed water becomes the upper part of the filter unit 100 through which the air flowing through the air passage 27 passes. As a result, the humidifying unit 5 can humidify the air by bringing it into contact with water.

[0036] The following describes the specific configuration of the water storage tray 51.

[0037] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the water storage tray 51 comprises a water supply section 51A, a water storage section 51B, and a partition member 51C.

[0038] The water supply unit 51A stores water supplied from the water supply tank 52 and supplies the stored water to the water storage unit 51B. The water supply unit 51A is a tray with an open top. The lower part of the water supply tank 52 is located inside the water supply unit 51A.

[0039] The water storage section 51B stores the water supplied from the water supply section 51A. The water storage section 51B is a tray with an open top. The lower part of the filter unit 100 is located in the water storage section 51B.

[0040] The first roller 53 and the second roller 54 are rotatably supported on the bottom surface of the water reservoir 51B.

[0041] The water storage tray 51 has a water supply hole 51D that spans both the water supply section 51A and the water storage section 51B, allowing water to be supplied from the water supply section 51A to the water storage section 51B.

[0042] The partition member 51C has a plate-like shape. The partition member 51C is positioned above the boundary between the water supply section 51A and the water storage section 51B. The partition member 51C separates the space above the water supply section 51A from the space above the water storage section 51B. This prevents air flowing through the air supply passage 27 from leaking above the water supply section 51A.

[0043] The specific configuration of the filter unit 100 will be described below using Figure 5. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the filter unit 100.

[0044] As shown in Figure 5, the filter unit 100 comprises a humidifying filter 110, a humidifying pre-filter 120, a frame 130, and a rear cover 140.

[0045] The humidifying filter 110 has a sheet-like shape with multiple folds. The humidifying filter 110 is a pleated filter.

[0046] The humidifying filter 110 is made of a porous material. This allows the humidifying filter 110 to pass air through and absorb water. The porous material is a fiber aggregate, etc. The fiber aggregate is paper, nonwoven fabric, fibrous fabric, etc.

[0047] The planar shape of the humidifying filter 110 has a contour formed by cutting out a part of a circle. Specifically, the planar shape of the humidifying filter 110 has a contour consisting of an arc and a broken line connecting the two ends of the arc. The portion 110A that forms the broken line of the humidifying filter 110 protrudes radially outward from the straight line connecting the two ends of the arc.

[0048] If the portion 110A that forms the folded line of the humidifying filter 110 is located near the bottom, the humidifying filter 110 is not immersed in water and is not moistened by water. If the portion 110A that forms the folded line of the humidifying filter 110 is located anywhere other than near the bottom, the humidifying filter 110 is immersed in water and moistened by water.

[0049] The humidifying pre-filter 120 has a flat, sheet-like shape. The humidifying pre-filter 120 is composed of a mesh of cotton fibers. Compared to the humidifying filter 110, the humidifying pre-filter 120 has higher water absorption and quick-drying properties.

[0050] The humidifying pre-filter 120 has a main body 121 and a hanging part 122.

[0051] The main body portion 121 is formed smaller than the planar size of the humidifying filter 110. The outer shape of the main body portion 121 has a contour consisting of an arc and a broken line connecting both ends of the arc. The main body portion 121 is laminated on the rear side of the humidifying filter 110. The portion 121A that forms the broken line of the main body portion 121 substantially coincides with the portion 110A that forms the broken line of the humidifying filter 110 when the main body portion 121 is laminated on the rear side of the humidifying filter 110.

[0052] The hook portion 122 protrudes in a T-shape from the portion 121A that forms the bend of the main body portion 121. The hook portion 122 is locked to the rear cover 140.

[0053] The frame 130 comprises a cylindrical portion 130A and an opposing portion 130B.

[0054] The cylindrical portion 130A has a cylindrical shape. A housing space S1 is formed inside the cylindrical portion 130A. The cylindrical portion 130A is equipped with a plurality of teeth T1. The plurality of teeth T1 are arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 130A. The plurality of teeth T1 are uniformly arranged in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis A1 of the filter unit 100. The cylindrical portion 130A is rotatably supported by a first roller 53 and a second roller 54 provided on the bottom surface of the water reservoir 51B, and the plurality of teeth T1 mesh with the gear 6B described above.

[0055] The opposing portion 130B is the part that faces the humidifying filter 110 in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1. The opposing portion 130B is the part that closes a portion of the opening surrounded by one end of the cylindrical portion 130A in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the opposing portion 130B includes a plate-shaped portion 131, a first annular portion 132, a second annular portion 133, and a plurality of rod-shaped portions 134.

[0056] The plate-like portion 131 has a plate-like shape. The planar shape of the plate-like portion 131 has a contour consisting of an arc and a broken line connecting both ends of the arc. The plate-like portion 131 is positioned radially inward of the cylindrical portion 130A. The portion of the plate-like portion 131 that forms the arc is connected to one end of the cylindrical portion 130A in the axial direction. As a result, the plate-like portion 131 closes a portion of the opening surrounded by one end of the cylindrical portion 130A in the axial direction.

[0057] The plate-shaped portion 131 has a pair of retaining ribs 131A that protrude toward the humidifying filter 110 side (from one end to the other in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 130A) in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1 of the filter unit 100. The pair of retaining ribs 131A hold the humidifying filter 110 in the housing space S1. Specifically, the pair of retaining ribs 131A are formed so as to be able to abut against the portion 110A that forms the fold line of the humidifying filter 110 when the humidifying filter 110 is housed in the housing space S1. This restricts displacement of the humidifying filter 110.

[0058] A magnet (not shown) is provided on the surface of the plate-shaped portion 131 facing the humidifying filter 110, in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1 of the filter unit 100. A detection unit (not shown) for detecting the magnetic force of the magnet is provided inside the housing 2. This ensures that the installation of the filter unit 100 can only be detected when the filter unit 100 is mounted in the housing 2 in the correct orientation (with the rib 130C, described later, facing the blower 7).

[0059] The first annular portion 132 has an annular shape. The first annular portion 132 is positioned radially inward of the cylindrical portion 130A and the plate-shaped portion 131.

[0060] The second annular portion 133 has an annular shape. The second annular portion 133 is located radially inside the cylindrical portion 130A and the plate-shaped portion 131. The second annular portion 133 is located radially outside the first annular portion 132.

[0061] Each rod-shaped portion 134 extends radially across the filter unit 100. One end of each rod-shaped portion 134 is connected to the axial end of the cylindrical portion 130A or to the portion forming the bent line of the plate-shaped portion 131. The other end of each rod-shaped portion 134 is connected to the first annular portion 132. That is, the second annular portion 133 is positioned midway across each rod-shaped portion 134. Multiple rod-shaped portions 134 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the filter unit 100. In this embodiment, eight rod-shaped portions 134 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the filter unit 100.

[0062] The rear cover 140 covers a portion of the opening surrounded by the other axial end of the cylindrical portion 130A of the frame 130.

[0063] The rear cover 140 comprises a mounting frame 141, an annular portion 142, and a plurality of rod-shaped portions 143.

[0064] The mounting frame 141 is detachably attached to the other axial end of the frame body 130 (cylindrical portion 130A). The mounting frame 141 is positioned radially inside the cylindrical portion 130A. The outer shape of the mounting frame 141 is a rectangle with one side formed in an arc shape along the cylindrical portion 130A.

[0065] The mounting frame 141 has a plate-like portion 141A. The plate-like portion 141A has a plate-like shape. The outer shape of the plate-like portion 141A has a contour consisting of an arc formed along the cylindrical portion 130A of the mounting frame 141 and a broken line connecting both ends of the arc. The plate-like portion 141A is located within the space enclosed by the mounting frame 141. As a result, the plate-like portion 141A closes a portion of the opening enclosed by the other axial end of the cylindrical portion 130A.

[0066] The plate-shaped portion 141A has a pair of locking ribs 141B that protrude toward the humidifying filter 110 side (from the other end to the one end in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 130A) in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1 of the filter unit 100. The pair of locking ribs 141B lock the hook portion 122 in the housing space S1. This restricts the displacement of the humidifying pre-filter 120.

[0067] The annular portion 142 has an annular shape. More specifically, the outer shape of the annular portion 142 is a regular octagon. The annular portion 142 is positioned radially inward of the cylindrical portion 130A and the plate-shaped portion 141A.

[0068] Each rod-shaped portion 143 extends radially from the filter unit 100. One end of each rod-shaped portion 143 is connected to the mounting frame 141 or the portion forming the bent line of the plate-shaped portion 141A. The other end of each rod-shaped portion 143 is connected to the apex of the annular portion 142. The multiple rod-shaped portions 143 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the filter unit 100.

[0069] In the above configuration, the filter unit 100 is assembled by stacking the humidifying filter 110 and the humidifying pre-filter 120, holding them in the housing space S1 of the frame 130, and then attaching the rear cover 140 to the other end of the frame 130.

[0070] As described above, with the rear cover 140 attached to the frame 130, the pair of retaining ribs 131A restrict the displacement of the humidifying filter 110, and the pair of locking ribs 141B restrict the displacement of the humidifying pre-filter 120. Thus, the humidifying filter 110 and the humidifying pre-filter 120 can be held in place while restricting displacement. As a result, the frame 130 can hold the humidifying filter 110 and the humidifying pre-filter 120 and rotate around the rotation axis A1.

[0071] Furthermore, when the rear cover 140 is attached to the frame 130, the plate-shaped portion 131 and the plate-shaped portion 141A face each other. This prevents water from entering the containment space S1 when the filter unit 100 rotates and the plate-shaped portion 131 and the plate-shaped portion 141A are positioned near the lowest point.

[0072] In the above configuration, the filter unit 100 holds a humidifying filter 110 and a humidifying pre-filter 120, but is not limited to this configuration; it is sufficient for it to hold at least the humidifying filter 110.

[0073] Furthermore, although the planar shape of the humidifying filter 110 is a shape obtained by cutting off a part of a circle, it is not limited to this, and may be circular, elliptical, or have a polygonal shape such as a rectangle.

[0074] Furthermore, the filter unit 100 has a frame 130 and a rear cover 140 as a retaining frame for holding the humidifying filter 110, but it is not limited to this, and it is sufficient if it can hold the humidifying filter 110, and at least it should have a frame 130.

[0075] The specific configuration of the ribs 130C provided by the frame 130 will be explained below using Figures 2 and 6A to 7. Figure 6A is a perspective view of the frame 130. Figure 6B is a front view of the frame 130. Figure 6B is a view of the frame 130 from the front. Figure 6C is a rear view of the frame 130. Figure 6C is a view of the frame 130 from the rear. Figure 6D is a top view of the frame 130. Figure 6D is a view of the frame 130 from above. Figure 6E is a bottom view of the frame 130. Figure 6E is a view of the frame 130 from below. Figure 6F is a left side view of the frame 130. Figure 6F is a view of the frame 130 from the left. Figure 6G is a right side view of the frame 130. Figure 6G is a view of the frame 130 from the right. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the frame 130. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in Figure 6B.

[0076] As shown in Figures 6A, 6B, and 7, the frame 130 further comprises ribs 130C. The ribs 130C protrude from the opposing portion 130B (in this embodiment, the second annular portion 133) toward the opposite side of the humidifying filter 110 in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1 of the filter unit 100. The ribs 130C are formed to surround the rotation axis A1 of the filter unit 100. Specifically, the ribs 130C are formed in an annular shape along the circumferential direction centered on the rotation axis A1.

[0077] As shown in Figure 2, the rib 130C is positioned opposite the intake port 7A of the blower 7 in the front-rear direction. The tip of the rib 130C is located inside the water storage tray 51, more specifically, inside the water storage section 51B in the vertical direction.

[0078] The humidifier unit 5 can only be attached to and detached from the housing 2 when the rib 130C is facing downstream (towards the blower 7) in the direction of airflow on the water storage tray 51 (water storage unit 51B). In other words, the humidifier unit 5 cannot be attached to or detached from the housing 2 when the rib 130C is facing upstream (towards the purification unit 4) in the direction of airflow on the water storage tray 51 (water storage unit 51B). Specifically, when the rib 130C is facing towards the purification unit 4, the rib 130C interferes with the partition wall 28 (see Figure 2) when inserting the humidifier unit 5 into the housing 2, thus hindering the attachment and detachment of the humidifier unit 5 to the housing 2.

[0079] In the above configuration, the rib 130C protrudes from the second annular portion 133 on the side opposite to the humidifying filter 110 and is formed to surround the rotation axis A1, thereby making it easier for air to pass through the central part of the humidifying filter 110 by the suction force of the blower 7. As a result, the water contained in the central part of the humidifying filter 110 can be concentrated and vaporized, thereby improving humidification efficiency.

[0080] Although the rib 130C protrudes from the second annular portion 133, it is not limited to this, and any rib that protrudes from the opposing portion 130B on the opposite side from the humidifying filter 110 in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1 is acceptable, for example, it may protrude from the first annular portion 132.

[0081] As shown in Figures 6A to 6G, the rib 130C has an opening 130D that connects the inner side, which is on the rotation axis A1 side, with the outer side, which is opposite to the inner side. In this embodiment, the inner side of the rib 130C, which is on the rotation axis A1 side, refers to the radially inner side of the filter unit 100, and the outer side of the rib 130C, which is opposite to the rotation axis A1 side, refers to the radially outer side of the filter unit 100. That is, the opening 130D is an opening that penetrates the rib 130C radially, centered on the rotation axis A1.

[0082] The opening 130D is formed by cutting out from the tip of the rib 130C toward the opposing portion 130B (second annular portion 133). In other words, the opening 130D is a slit. Note that the opening 130D is not limited to a slit, but may also be a hole.

[0083] Multiple openings 130D are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the rib 130C. In this embodiment, four openings 130D are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the rib 130C. The four openings 130D are formed in the circumferential direction of the filter unit 100 at positions that overlap with every other rod-shaped portion 134 among the eight rod-shaped portions 134.

[0084] The spacing between the multiple openings 130D in the circumferential direction is equal, but is not limited to this, and may be unequal. Also, although multiple openings 130D are formed in the rib 130C, it is not limited to this, and may have only one opening 130D.

[0085] As described above, the rib 130C has an opening 130D that connects the inner side, which is on the rotation axis A1 side, with the outer side, which is opposite the inner side. This allows moisture contained in the humidifying filter 110 to be scattered onto the rib 130C by the suction force of the blower 7, and as the frame 130 rotates, the water droplets accumulated on the rib 130C can fall into the water storage tray 51 through the opening 130D. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the scattering of water droplets accumulated on the rib 130C to the outside of the humidifying unit 5 (water storage tray 51) due to the effects of wind and pressure.

[0086] As shown in Figures 6D to 6G, the opening 130D is formed such that its width W1 decreases as it approaches the humidifying filter 110. The width W1 of the opening 130D is the length along the direction in which the rib 130C surrounds the axis of rotation A1, and in this embodiment, it is the length in the circumferential direction centered on the axis of rotation A1. Specifically, the width W1 of the opening 130D is formed so that it gradually decreases from the tip to the base.

[0087] As a result, surface tension acts near the opening 130D of the rib 130C, making it easier for water droplets to move from the tip side of the opening 130D, which has a larger width W1, to the base side (opposite part 130B side), which has a smaller width W1. Therefore, it is easier for water droplets to fall down along the opposite part 130B, thus suppressing scattering outside the humidifying unit 5 (water storage tray 51).

[0088] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the rod-shaped portion 134 includes a first extended portion 134A and a second extended portion 134B.

[0089] The first extension portion 134A extends outward from a position that coincides with the opening 130D in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1. Specifically, the first extension portion 134A extends radially from the position that coincides with the opening 130D toward one end of the cylindrical portion 130A in the axial direction or toward the portion that forms the bend of the plate-like portion 131.

[0090] As a result, when the opening 130D is positioned near the bottom, water droplets can be guided downwards from the opening 130D through the first extension 134A, thereby suppressing the scattering of water droplets and allowing the water droplets that fall into the water storage tray 51 to be reused for supplying water to the humidifying filter 110.

[0091] The first extension portion 134A extends radially to the filter unit 100, but it is sufficient that it extends outward from a position that coincides with the opening 130D in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1, and it may also extend in a direction intersecting the radial direction of the filter unit 100.

[0092] The second extension 134B extends inward from a position that coincides with the opening 130D in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1. Specifically, the second extension 134B extends radially toward the first annular portion 132 from a position that coincides with the opening 130D.

[0093] The second extension portion 134B extends in the radial direction of the filter unit 100, but is not limited to this. It may extend inward from a position that coincides with the opening 130D in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1, and may also extend in a direction intersecting the radial direction of the filter unit 100.

[0094] The second extension portion 134B has a projection portion 134C that protrudes on the side opposite to the humidifying filter 110. The projection portion 134C is narrower in width than the second extension portion 134B and has approximately the same length as the second extension portion 134B (see Figures 6A and 6B). One end of the projection portion 134C is located inside the opening 130D, and the other end is connected to the first annular portion 132.

[0095] As a result, moisture adhering to the area inside the rib 130C (for example, the first annular portion 132) can easily flow down along the projection 134C of the second extension portion 134B to the opening 130D, thereby suppressing the scattering of water droplets.

[0096] In this embodiment, the rib 130C is formed in an annular shape, but it is not limited to this and may be formed in a polygonal shape or the like. Also, the rib 130C is formed to surround the entire circumference of the rotation axis A1, but it is not limited to this and may be formed to surround only a part of the circumference of the rotation axis A1.

[0097] Furthermore, the opposing portion 130B includes a plate-shaped portion 131, a first annular portion 132, a second annular portion 133, and a plurality of rod-shaped portions 134, but is not limited to this; it is sufficient to include at least a portion formed to surround the axis of rotation A1 (for example, the first annular portion 132 or the second annular portion 133) and a skeletal member that supports said portion (for example, a plurality of rod-shaped portions 134).

[0098] In the above configuration, the retaining frame (frame body 130) is a retaining frame that holds the humidifying filter 110 and rotates around the rotation axis A1, and comprises an opposing portion 130B that faces the humidifying filter 110 in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1, and a rib 130C that protrudes from the opposing portion 130B on the opposite side of the humidifying filter 110 in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1 and is formed to surround the rotation axis A1. The rib 130C has an opening 130D that connects the inner side, which is on the rotation axis A1 side, with the outer side, which is opposite to the inner side.

[0099] As a result, even if moisture contained in the humidifying filter 110 is scattered onto the rib 130C by the suction force of the blower 7, the water droplets accumulated on the rib 130C can fall into the water storage tray 51 through the opening 130D as the frame 130 rotates. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the scattering of water droplets accumulated on the rib 130C to the outside of the humidifying unit 5 (water storage tray 51) due to the effects of wind and pressure.

[0100] The opening 130D is a slit.

[0101] The rib 130C is formed in an annular shape along the circumferential direction centered on the rotation axis A1. This allows water droplets adhering to the rib 130C to be smoothly guided to the opening 130D as the frame 130 rotates.

[0102] The width W1 of the opening 130D decreases as it approaches the humidifying filter 110. This causes surface tension to act near the opening 130D of the rib 130C, making it easier for water droplets to move from the wider end of the opening 130D (W1) to the narrower end (opposite part 130B). As a result, water droplets can easily fall down the opposite part 130B, thus preventing them from scattering outside the humidifying unit 5 (water storage tray 51).

[0103] The opposing portion 130B includes a first extension portion 134A that extends outward from a position that coincides with the opening 130D in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1. As a result, when the opening 130D is located near the bottom, water droplets can be guided downward from the opening 130D through the first extension portion 134A, thereby suppressing the scattering of water droplets and allowing the water droplets that fall into the water storage tray 51 to be reused for supplying water to the humidifying filter 110.

[0104] The opposing portion 130B includes a second extension portion 134B that extends inward from a position that coincides with the opening 130D in the axial direction of the rotation axis A1. The second extension portion 134B has a projection portion 134C that protrudes on the side opposite to the humidifying filter 110. As a result, moisture adhering inward from the rib 130C (for example, the first annular portion 132) can easily flow down along the projection portion 134C of the second extension portion 134B to the opening 130D, thereby suppressing the scattering of water droplets.

[0105] The filter unit 100 comprises a retaining frame (frame body 130) and a humidifying filter 110 held by the retaining frame (frame body 130).

[0106] The humidifier 1 comprises a filter unit 100, a water storage tray 51 located below the filter unit 100 for storing water, and a rotating mechanism 6 for rotating the filter unit 100.

[0107] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. For example, the configurations shown in the embodiments above can be replaced with configurations that are substantially the same, that produce the same effects, or that can achieve the same purpose. Furthermore, some or all of the embodiments of this disclosure may be used in combination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 1 Humidifier, 6 Rotating mechanism, 51 Water storage tray, 100 Filter unit, 110 Humidifying filter, 130 Frame (holding frame), 130B Opposing part, 130C Rib, 130D Opening, 134A First extension part, 134B Second extension part, 134C Protrusion, A1 Rotation axis, W1 Width

Claims

1. A retaining frame that holds a humidifying filter and rotates around a rotation axis, In the axial direction of the rotation axis, there is a facing portion that faces the humidifying filter, The rotation axis is provided with a rib that protrudes from the opposing portion toward the opposite side of the humidifying filter in the axial direction of the rotation axis and is formed to surround the rotation axis, The rib has an opening that connects the inner side, which is on the axis of rotation side, with the outer side, which is opposite to the inner side. Holding frame.

2. The aforementioned opening is a slit. The retaining frame according to claim 1.

3. The rib is formed in an annular shape along the circumferential direction centered on the axis of rotation. The retaining frame according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The opening becomes narrower as it approaches the humidifying filter. The retaining frame according to claim 1 or claim 2.

5. The opposing portion includes a first extension portion that extends outward from a position that overlaps with the opening in the axial direction of the rotation axis, The retaining frame according to claim 1 or claim 2.

6. The opposing portion includes a second extension portion that extends inward from a position that overlaps with the opening in the axial direction of the rotation axis, The second extension portion has a projection that protrudes on the side opposite to the humidifying filter. The retaining frame according to claim 1 or claim 2.

7. A retaining frame according to claim 1 or claim 2, The humidifying filter is held by the aforementioned holding frame, Filter unit.

8. The filter unit according to claim 7, A water storage tray is located below the aforementioned filter unit and stores water. The filter unit is equipped with a rotating mechanism for rotating the filter unit, humidifier.

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