Blower

Abstract

To provide a blower that can improve assembly workability. [Solution] The device comprises a pair of impellers, a pair of housings, a flow straightening grid 30, and a holding part 40. The pair of impellers are rotatable about a central axis and are arranged coaxially. The pair of housings are formed in a cylindrical shape extending along the central axis, with both axial end faces open, and each housing a pair of impellers. The flow straightening grid is positioned between the pair of impellers and consists of multiple tubular air passages through which airflow flows, arranged in a plane where they intersect axially. The holding part is sandwiched between the pair of housings and holds the peripheral edge of the flow straightening grid. The flow straightening grid and the holding part are made of separate components.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a blower device.

Background Art

[0002] A conventional blower device includes a pair of impellers, a pair of housings, and a rectifying grid. The pair of impellers are rotatable about a central axis and are arranged coaxially. The pair of housings extend along the central axis and are formed in a cylindrical shape with both axial end faces open, and each houses a pair of impellers. The rectifying grid is arranged between the pair of impellers and is composed of a plurality of tubular ventilation paths through which air flows arranged side by side on a plane intersecting the axial direction. The rectifying grid is sandwiched and held by the pair of housings (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional blower device, it is difficult to position the rectifying grid, and there is a possibility that the assembly workability may be reduced.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a blower device capable of improving the assembly workability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An exemplary blower of the present invention comprises a pair of impellers, a pair of housings, a flow straightening grid, and a holding part. The pair of impellers are rotatable about a central axis and are arranged coaxially. The pair of housings are formed in a cylindrical shape extending along the central axis, with both axial end faces open, and each houses a pair of impellers. The flow straightening grid is positioned between the pair of impellers and consists of multiple tubular air passages through which airflow flows arranged in a plane where they intersect axially. The holding part is sandwiched between the pair of housings and holds the peripheral edge of the flow straightening grid. The flow straightening grid and the holding part are made of separate components. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to an exemplary example of the present invention, a blower capable of improving assembly workability can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a blower according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a blower device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view of the flow straightening grid of a blower according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a plan view of the clamping member of the blower according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a blower according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a blower device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a blower according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a blower according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an enlarged perspective view showing a part of the holding portion of the blower device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10]Figure 10 is a plan view of the rectifying grid of a blower according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a plan view of the holding member of the blower according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of a blower according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of a blower according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this document, the direction in which the central axis J of the blower 1 extends is simply referred to as the "axial direction," the direction perpendicular to the central axis J of the blower 1 is simply referred to as the "radial direction," and the direction along the arc centered on the central axis J of the blower 1 is simply referred to as the "circumferential direction." A cross section parallel to the axial direction is referred to as the "longitudinal section." Furthermore, "parallel" does not mean parallel in a strict sense, but includes approximately parallel. Furthermore, "along the central axis J" means along the central axis J, and also includes along the central axis J approximately parallel.

[0010] Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, the axial direction will be defined as the vertical direction, and the vertical direction in Figure 1 will be used to describe the shape and positional relationship of each part. The "lower side" of the blower 1 is the "exhaust side," and the "upper side" is the "intake side." Note that this definition of the vertical direction does not limit the orientation and positional relationship of the blower when it is in use. Also, in this book, a cross-section parallel to the axial direction is referred to as a "longitudinal cross-section."

[0011] <First Embodiment> (1. Configuration of the blower) FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of an example of a blower device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the blower device 1. The blower device 1 includes a pair of impellers 101 arranged side by side in the axial direction, a pair of motors 12, a pair of housings 20, a rectifying grid 30, and a holding portion 40. In the present embodiment, the holding portion 40 is composed of a pair of clamping members 41 that sandwich the peripheral portion of the rectifying grid 30 from the axial direction (X1-X2).

[0012] The blower device 1 generates an air flow from the upper side X2 in the axial direction to the lower side X1 in the axial direction along the central axis J. The pair of impellers 101 are rotatable about the central axis J and are coaxially arranged. The pair of motors 12 rotate the impellers 101 about the central axis J, respectively. In the present embodiment, the pair of impellers 101 rotate clockwise (in the Y1 direction) about the central axis J in a top view, for example. In the present embodiment, the pair of impellers 101 have the same shape and rotate in the same direction, but they may have different shapes. Also, the pair of impellers 101 may rotate in opposite directions depending on their shapes.

[0013] Each housing 20 is a resin molded product (die molded product) and has a blower flow path 21 inside. Each housing 20 houses the impeller 101, the motor 12, and a circuit board (not shown) inside. The blower flow path 21 extends along the central axis J inside the housing 20. The pair of housings 20 are connected in the axial direction, and the blower flow paths 21 are also in communication in the axial direction. The connected pair of housings 20 have an exhaust port 21b at the lower end and an intake port 21a at the upper end.

[0014] Although not shown, in the pair of housings 20, the blower flow paths 21 inside facing the rectifying grid 30 expand radially outward as they approach the rectifying grid 30. Thereby, the air flow can be smoothly sent from the impeller 101 arranged on the intake side X2 toward the rectifying grid 30. Also, the air flow rectified by the rectifying grid 130 can be smoothly sent toward the impeller 101 arranged on the exhaust side X1. Thereby, the blowing efficiency and quietness of the blower device 1 can be improved.

[0015] In this embodiment, the flow rectifying grid 30 is held with its peripheral portion sandwiched from the axial direction (X1-X2) by a pair of clamping members 41. Further, the pair of clamping members 41 (holding portion 40) that hold the peripheral portion of the flow rectifying grid 30 are further sandwiched from the axial direction (X1-X2) by the pair of housings 20. At this time, the flow rectifying grid 30 and the pair of clamping members 41 (holding portion 40) are made of separate members.

[0016] Thereby, the blower device 1 can be easily assembled by sandwiching the flow rectifying grid 30 that has been positioned in advance by the pair of clamping members 41 (holding portion 40) with the pair of housings 20. Further, the pair of clamping members 41 (holding portion 40) can be removed from the pair of housings 20, and the flow rectifying grid 30 can be easily replaced. Also, the removed flow rectifying grid 30 can be easily cleaned. Therefore, it is possible to provide the blower device 1 in which the positioning of the flow rectifying grid 30 is easy and the assembly workability can be improved. In this embodiment, the holding portion 40 is composed of a pair of clamping members 41 that sandwich the peripheral portion of the flow rectifying grid 30 from the axial direction (X1-X2). Thereby, the flow rectifying grid 30 can be more easily positioned by sandwiching it with the pair of clamping members 41.

[0017] The flow rectifying grid 30 rectifies the airflow sent from the impeller 101 on the intake side X2 in the axial direction X1. The rectified airflow is sucked by the impeller 101 on the exhaust side X1 and discharged from the exhaust port 21b. The airflow rectified by the flow rectifying grid 30 has a reduced swirling component and an increased component directed in the axial direction. Thereby, the pressure and the air volume of the airflow sent from the impeller 101 on the exhaust side X1 increase. Also, the quietness of the blower device 1 is improved. The flow rectifying grid 30 and the clamping member 41 will be described in detail later.

[0018] Each housing 20 has a cylindrical wall portion 22, a base portion 23, a stationary blade portion 24, a bearing holding portion 25, and a flange portion 26, respectively.

[0019] The cylindrical wall portion 22 extends along the central axis J and covers the impeller 101 from the radially outer side. The cylindrical wall portion 22 is cylindrical in shape, extending vertically in the axial direction. That is, the housing 20 is cylindrical. An airflow passage 21 is arranged on the radially inner side of the cylindrical wall portion 22. An intake port 21a is located at the axial upper end of the cylindrical wall portion 22 on the intake side X2. An exhaust port 21b is located at the axial lower end of the cylindrical wall portion 22 on the exhaust side X1.

[0020] The flange portion 26 protrudes radially outward from the axial outer end of the cylindrical wall portion 22 and has a housing screw hole 26a that penetrates axially (X1-X2) formed therein. Four flange portions 26 are provided at each end of the cylindrical wall portion 22 in one axial direction X1 and the other axial direction X2.

[0021] Furthermore, the flange portion 26 has a housing groove portion 26b. In this embodiment, the housing groove portion 26b is formed by recessing the outer circumferential surface of the flange portion 26 radially inward. The housing groove portion 26b is positioned to overlap in the axial direction (X1-X2) with the groove portion 45 formed in the clamping member 41, which will be described later.

[0022] The base portion 23 is to which the motor 12 is fixed. The base portion 23 is disc-shaped, extending radially around a central axis J. In this embodiment, the base portion 23 is located on the exhaust side X1 in each housing 20.

[0023] The stator vane sections 24 extend radially outward from the radially outer surface of the base section 23 and connect the base section 23 and the cylindrical wall section 22. Multiple stator vane sections 24 are arranged in the circumferential direction. The air flowing through the airflow channel 21 is rectified as it passes between adjacent stator vane sections 24 and flows axially downward X1.

[0024] The bearing retainer portion 25 is made of a metal material such as brass and is integrally molded with the base portion 23. The bearing retainer portion 25 protrudes axially from the base portion 23 and is cylindrical in shape with a central axis J. In this embodiment, the bearing retainer portion 25 protrudes from the upper surface of the base portion 23 toward the intake side X2.

[0025] The bearing holder 25 holds the bearing 126, which will be described later, inside and constitutes part of the motor 12. Alternatively, the bearing holder 25 may be molded integrally with the base 23 from the same resin material, rather than being molded as a separate component from the base 23.

[0026] The impeller 101 is rotatably supported by the motor 12 on the radially inner side of the cylindrical wall portion 22. The impeller 101 is a resin molded product (mold-molded product) and rotates around the central axis J by the motor 12. The impeller 101 has a cylindrical body portion 111 and a plurality of blade portions 112. The body portion 111 is a substantially cylindrical member having a cover portion 113 on the axially upper side X2. The body portion 111 is fixed radially outward of the rotor yoke 1241, which will be described later, and is rotatable around the central axis J. The cover portion 113 has a through hole 113a that penetrates axially through the central axis J. For example, the upper end of the shaft 125 is positioned inside the through hole 113a.

[0027] Multiple blade sections 112 protrude radially from the outer circumferential surface of the body section 111 and are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The blade sections 112 rotate around the central axis J, thereby blowing air downward in the axial direction X1.

[0028] The motor 12 is fixed to the base portion 23 and housed in the housing 20. The motor 12 includes a shaft 125, a bearing 126, a bearing holder 25, a stator 123, and a rotor 124.

[0029] The shaft 125 is positioned along the central axis J. The shaft 125 is a columnar member made of metal such as stainless steel, extending vertically in the axial direction. The shaft 125 is supported by a bearing 126 so as to be rotatable around the central axis J.

[0030] The bearing 126 is held inside the bearing holder 25. The bearing 126 is composed of, for example, a ball bearing, but may also be composed of a sleeve bearing or the like. The pair of axially oriented upper and lower bearings 126 support the shaft 125 so that it can rotate around the central axis J relative to the housing 20.

[0031] The stator 123 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the bearing holder 25. The stator 123 includes a stator core 1231, an insulator (not shown), and a coil 1232.

[0032] The stator core 1231 is constructed by laminating electromagnetic steel sheets, such as silicon steel sheets, vertically. The insulator (not shown) is made of an insulating resin. The insulator (not shown) is provided on a part of the outer surface of the stator core 1231. The coil 1232 is made of a wire wound around the stator core 1231 via the insulator.

[0033] The rotor 124 is positioned radially outward of the stator 123. The rotor 124 rotates around a central axis J relative to the stator 123. The rotor 124 includes a rotor yoke 1241 and a magnet 1242.

[0034] The rotor yoke 1241 is made of a magnetic material and is a substantially cylindrical member having a cover on its axial upper side X2. The rotor yoke 1241 is fixed to the shaft 125. The magnet 1242 is cylindrical and fixed to the inner circumferential surface of the rotor yoke 1241. The magnet 1242 is positioned radially outward of the stator 123.

[0035] A circuit board (not shown) is placed, for example, between the impeller 101 and the base portion 23. The circuit board is, for example, a disc shape that extends radially around a central axis J. The lead wires of the coil 1232 are electrically connected to the circuit board. An electronic circuit for supplying drive current to the coil 1232 is mounted on the circuit board.

[0036] In the blower 1 configured as described above, when a drive current is supplied to the coil 1232 of the motor 12 via the circuit board, a radial magnetic flux is generated in the stator core 1231. The magnetic field generated by the magnetic flux of the stator core 1231 and the magnetic field generated by the magnet 1242 act together, generating torque in the circumferential direction of the rotor 124. This torque causes the impeller 101 to rotate around the central axis J. As the impeller 101 rotates, airflow is generated by the multiple blades 112. As a result, the blower 1 can generate airflow with the upper side as the intake side (upstream side in the airflow direction) X2 and the lower side as the exhaust side (downstream side in the airflow direction) X1, and perform airflow.

[0037] (2. Configuration of the flow straightening grid and clamping members) Figure 3 is a plan view of the rectifying grid 30. Figure 4 is a plan view of the clamping member 41, showing the surface facing the rectifying grid 30.

[0038] The rectifier grid 30 is positioned between a pair of impellers 101 and is configured as a plate-like structure arranged in multiple rows on a plane where tubular air passages 30a through which airflow flows intersect axially. In this embodiment, the rectifier grid 30 is made of aluminum, but is not limited to this example and may be made of resin material, other metal material, ceramic material, etc.

[0039] The flow straightening grid 30 is rectangular when viewed from the axial direction, with three corners 31 concave radially inward. One corner 31 is curved radially outward in an arc shape. In this embodiment, the flow straightening grid 30 is rectangular, but it may also be polygonal or circular.

[0040] The ventilation passage 30a extends in the axial direction (Y1-Y2) and is hexagonal when viewed from the axial direction. Furthermore, the ventilation passage 30a has a honeycomb structure formed on a plane perpendicular to the axial direction (Y1-Y2). By employing a honeycomb structure in the rectifying grid 30, the rigidity of the rectifying grid 30 can be increased. Additionally, the rectifying effect of the airflow discharged from the impeller 101 on the intake side X2 can be improved, reducing airflow resistance. Therefore, the pressure-airflow characteristics and quietness of the blower 1 can be further improved. Note that the ventilation passage 30a may be a polygon other than a hexagon or a circle when viewed from the axial direction.

[0041] The clamping member 41 has an annular support portion 42 and a peripheral wall portion 43. The support portion 42 faces the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid 30 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the support portion 42 is plate-shaped, the inner peripheral edge of the support portion 42 is circular, and the housing 20 is cylindrical. This allows the airflow circulating in the axial direction X1 to flow more smoothly.

[0042] Furthermore, the inner surface of the support portion 42 is flush with the inner surface of the housing 20 (cylindrical wall portion 22) (see Figure 1). This prevents the airflow circulating in the axial direction X1 through the airflow passage 21 from being obstructed by the support portion 42. Consequently, airflow can be smoothly delivered from the impeller 101 on the intake side X2 to the rectifying grid 30. In addition, the airflow rectified by the rectifying grid 30 can be smoothly delivered to the impeller 101 on the exhaust side X1. This further improves the airflow efficiency and quietness of the blower 1.

[0043] Furthermore, the inner circumferential surface of the support portion 42 may be located radially outward from the inner circumferential surface of the housing 20 (cylindrical wall portion 22). This provides the same effect as when the inner circumferential surface of the support portion 42 is flush with the inner circumferential surface of the housing 20 (cylindrical wall portion 22).

[0044] The peripheral wall portion 43 protrudes axially (X1-X2) from the peripheral edge of the support portion 42 and surrounds the flow straightening grid 30 from the radially outer side. In the pair of clamping members 41, the peripheral wall portions 43 contact each other axially (X1-X2). The flow straightening grid 30 is housed in the space surrounded by the pair of support portions 42 and the pair of peripheral wall portions 43 that face each other axially (X1-X2).

[0045] In this configuration, the peripheral edge of the rectifier grid 30 is sandwiched axially by a pair of support parts 42 and surrounded radially from the outside by a pair of peripheral wall parts 43. This ensures that the rectifier grid 30 is stably held by a pair of clamping members 41. This also allows for easy positioning of the rectifier grid 30. Furthermore, it prevents airflow from leaking to the outside from the space enclosed by the pair of support parts 42 and the pair of peripheral wall parts 43.

[0046] In this embodiment, the peripheral wall portion 43 protrudes from each of the pair of support portions 42, but the peripheral wall portion 43 may protrude from only one of the pair of support portions 42. In this case, the peripheral wall portion 43 protruding from one of the support portions 42 contacts the other support portion 42, which is formed in a flat plate shape.

[0047] Furthermore, the pair of clamping members 41 have clamping screw holes 44. The clamping screw holes 44 are located at the corners of the peripheral wall portion 43 and penetrate in the axial direction (X1-X2). In this embodiment, four clamping screw holes 44 are located at the corners of the peripheral wall portion 43. The clamping screw holes 44 and the housing screw holes 20a are aligned and fastened with screws (not shown). This integrally fixes the pair of housings 20 and the pair of clamping members 41. Consequently, the assembly workability of the blower 1 is further improved.

[0048] Furthermore, the peripheral wall portion 43 is formed with increased radial width at the corners. More specifically, at three corners, the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion 43 protrudes while curving convexly inward in the radial direction. This ensures that the area for forming the clamping screw holes 44 is secured in the peripheral wall portion 43 while suppressing an increase in the radial size of the clamping member 41. Furthermore, at one corner, the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion 43 is concave while curving radially outward.

[0049] Furthermore, the rectifier grid 30 is formed along the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion 43, and at three corners, the outer surface of the rectifier grid 30 is convexly recessed radially inward. Therefore, the outer surface of the rectifier grid 30 and the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion 43 can be placed in contact with or close to each other. This prevents airflow from leaking around the rectifier grid 30 in the space surrounded by the pair of clamping members 41. Therefore, a decrease in airflow efficiency and noise reduction can be suppressed.

[0050] Furthermore, the pair of clamping members 41 have grooves 45. The grooves 45 are formed by the outer circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion 43 being recessed radially inward. The grooves 45 and the housing grooves 26b are arranged to overlap in the axial direction. This makes it easier to route the lead wires (not shown) connected to each motor 12 by arranging them inside the grooves 45 and the housing grooves 26b. Consequently, the assembly workability of the blower 1 is further improved.

[0051] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a blower 1 according to the second embodiment, and Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the blower 1. For convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as those in the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4 above. In the second embodiment, the holding portion 40 is composed of only one clamping member 41, which is different from the first embodiment. The other parts are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0052] In this embodiment, the peripheral wall portion 43 protrudes axially X2 from the peripheral edge of the support portion 42 and surrounds the rectifier grid 30 from the radially outside. More specifically, the peripheral wall portion 43 contacts the cylindrical wall portion 22 of the housing 20 located on the intake side X2 in the axial direction (X1-X2). As a result, the rectifier grid 30 is housed in the space enclosed by the support portion 42, the cylindrical wall portion 22, and the peripheral wall portion 43, which are facing each other in the axial direction (X1-X2). By constructing the holding portion 40 with only one clamping member 41, the number of parts can be reduced, thereby lowering the manufacturing cost of the blower 1.

[0053] In this embodiment, the rectifier grid 30 is sandwiched between the housing 20 and the clamping member 41 located on the intake side X2, but the rectifier grid 30 may also be sandwiched between the housing 20 and the clamping member 41 located on the exhaust side X1.

[0054] <Third Embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example of a blower 1 according to the third embodiment, and Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the blower 1. Figure 9 is an enlarged perspective view showing a part of the holding portion 140 of the blower 1. For convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as those in the first and second embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 6 above. In the third embodiment, each pair of housings 20 has a plurality of engaging male portions (first engaging portions) 201 arranged on their radially outer surfaces, and the holding portion 140 has a plurality of engaging claws 401, 402. The holding portion 140 is also composed of a holding member 141 that holds the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid 130.

[0055] More specifically, the engaging male portion (first engaging portion) 201 is convex, projecting radially from the radially outer surface of the housing 20. The engaging male portion (first engaging portion) 201 has an inclined surface 201a that slopes radially outward as it faces the projection direction of the engaging claw 401. In this embodiment, seven engaging male portions (first engaging portions) 201 are arranged in each housing 20.

[0056] The engaging claw 401 protrudes axially in X1 from the radially outer end of the holding portion 140 (holding member 141) and has an engaging female portion (second engaging portion) 401a at its tip. The engaging claw 402 protrudes axially in X2 from the radially outer end of the holding portion 140 (holding member 141) and has an engaging female portion (second engaging portion) 402a at its tip.

[0057] The engaging female parts 401a and 402a are concave in the radial direction, and the engaging male part 201 is positioned inside them. The engaging female parts 401a and 402a engage with the engaging male part 201. In this embodiment, the engaging female part 401a consists of a through hole that penetrates the engaging claw 401 in the radial direction. The engaging female part 402a also consists of a through hole that penetrates the engaging claw 402 in the radial direction.

[0058] Furthermore, the engaging female portion 401a is not limited to a through hole, but may be configured by forming a recess on the radial inner surface of the engaging claw 401. Similarly, the engaging female portion 402a is not limited to a through hole, but may be configured by forming a recess on the radial inner surface of the engaging claw 402.

[0059] In this embodiment, the engaging claws 401 and 402 are arranged side by side in the axial direction (X1-X2) and are integrally formed with the retaining member 141. Furthermore, the engaging claws 401 and 402 are arranged at seven locations on the retaining member 141.

[0060] When connecting the housing 20 located on the exhaust side X1 to the retaining part 140, the tip of the engaging claw 401 is slid against the inclined surface 201a while bringing the housing 20 and the retaining part 140 closer together. This allows the engaging male part 201 to be easily inserted into the engaging female part 401a. Similarly, when connecting the housing 20 located on the intake side X2 to the retaining part 140, the tip of the engaging claw 402 is slid against the inclined surface 201a while bringing the housing 20 and the retaining part 140 closer together. This allows the engaging male part 201 to be easily inserted into the engaging female part 402a. Therefore, the assembly workability of the pair of housings 20 and retaining parts 140 is further improved.

[0061] Furthermore, the number of parts such as screws can be reduced to connect and fix the pair of housings 20 and the holding part 140. This further reduces the manufacturing cost of the blower device 1. Note that the clamping screw holes 44 and the housing screw holes 20a can be used not to connect the pair of housings 20 and the holding part 140, but to fix the blower device 1 to a base member (not shown).

[0062] Figure 10 is a plan view of the rectifying grid 130. Figure 11 is a plan view of the holding member 141, showing the surface facing the rectifying grid 130. In this embodiment, the holding member 141 has an annular holding support portion 142 and a holding peripheral wall portion 143. The holding support portion 142 faces the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid 130 in the axial direction (X1-X2). In this embodiment, the holding support portion 142 is plate-shaped, the inner peripheral edge of the holding support portion 142 is circular, and the housing 20 is cylindrical.

[0063] The minimum radial distance L between the inner edge of the holding support portion 142 and the inner edge of the holding peripheral wall portion 143 is greater than the axial thickness (X1-X2) of the rectifying grid 30. As a result, the rectifying grid 130 is held more stably by the holding portion 140. This improves the airflow efficiency and quietness of the blower 1.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the retaining peripheral wall portion 143 is composed of four sides that are mutually orthogonal when viewed from the axial direction, and each side of the retaining peripheral wall portion 143 is parallel to one side of the inner wall of the air passage 130a of the rectifying grid 130 when viewed from the axial direction. That is, one side of the retaining peripheral wall portion 143 is parallel to one side of the air passage 130a when viewed from the axial direction. As a result, the rectifying grid 130 is held more stably by the retaining portion 140. Therefore, the airflow efficiency and quietness of the blower 1 can be further improved.

[0065] In this embodiment, each ventilation passage 130a located on the periphery of the rectifying grid 130 has a portion of its inner wall that is radially open (see Figure 10). Furthermore, a portion of the inner wall of each open ventilation passage 130a is covered by the retaining peripheral wall portion 143.

[0066] Preferably, at least a portion of the retaining member 141 is made of a material that is more elastic than the pair of housings 20. That is, preferably, at least a portion of the retaining portion 140 is made of a material that is more elastic than the pair of housings 20. This allows vibrations of the housings 20 to be absorbed by the retaining portion 140, reducing vibrations of the blower 1 and further improving quietness.

[0067] <Fourth Embodiment> Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the blower 1 according to the fourth embodiment. For convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as those in the third embodiment shown in Figures 7 to 11 above.

[0068] In the fourth embodiment, the housing 20 located on the exhaust side X1 has a plurality of engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201 located on its radially outer surface, and the housing 20 located on the intake side X2 has a plurality of engaging claws 202. The retaining part 140 also has a plurality of engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 404 and engaging claws 403.

[0069] The engaging claw 202 has an engaging female portion (second engaging portion) 202a that protrudes axially X1 from the radially outer end of the housing 20 and engages with the engaging male portion (first engaging portion) 404 at its tip. The engaging claw 403 has an engaging female portion (second engaging portion) 403a that protrudes axially X1 from the radially outer end of the housing 20 and engages with the engaging male portion (first engaging portion) 201 at its tip.

[0070] In this embodiment, seven engaging claws 202 are arranged on the housing 20 and are integrally formed with the housing 20. The engaging male portion (first engaging portion) 404 and the engaging claws 403 are arranged side by side in the axial direction (X1-X2), with the engaging male portion (first engaging portion) 404 located on the intake side X2 than the engaging claws 403. Seven engaging male portions (first engaging portions) 404 and seven engaging claws 403 are arranged on the retaining member 141 and are integrally formed with the retaining member 141.

[0071] In this configuration, the engaging male part 404 is inserted into the engaging female part 202a, connecting the housing 20 located on the intake side X2 with the retaining part 140. Similarly, the engaging male part 201 is inserted into the engaging female part 403a, connecting the retaining part 140 with the housing 20 located on the exhaust side X1. This configuration allows for the connection and fixing of the pair of housings 20 while clamping the retaining part 140, while reducing the number of screws and other components.

[0072] In addition, multiple engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201 may be arranged on the housing 20 located on the intake side X2, and multiple engaging claws 202 may be arranged on the housing 20 located on the exhaust side X1. In this case, the engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 404 are located on the exhaust side X1 than the engaging claws 403.

[0073] In other words, one of the pair of housings 20 and retaining part 140 has a plurality of engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201, 404 arranged on its radially outer surface, and the other of the pair of housings 20 and retaining part 140 has a plurality of engaging claws 202, 403, each having engaging female parts (second engaging parts) 202a, 403a that protrude axially from the radially outer end and engage with the engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201, 404 at their tip.

[0074] <Fifth Embodiment> Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the blower 1 according to the fifth embodiment. For convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as those in the third and fourth embodiments shown in Figures 7 to 12 above.

[0075] In the fifth embodiment, the housing 20 located on the exhaust side X1 has a plurality of engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201 located on its radially outer surface, and the housing 20 located on the intake side X2 has a plurality of engaging claws 203. The engaging claws 203 protrude axially X1 from the radially outer end of the housing 20 and have an engaging female part (second engaging part) 203a at its tip that engages with the engaging male part (first engaging part) 201. With this configuration, the pair of housings 20 can be connected and fixed while clamping the holding part 140, while reducing the number of parts such as screws.

[0076] Furthermore, in this embodiment, seven engaging claws 203 are arranged in the housing 20 and are formed integrally with the housing 20.

[0077] Furthermore, multiple engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201 may be arranged on the housing 20 located on the intake side X2, and multiple engaging claws 203 may be arranged on the housing 20 located on the exhaust side X1.

[0078] In other words, one of the pair of housings 20 has a plurality of engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201 arranged on its radially outer surface, and the other of the pair of housings 20 has a plurality of engaging claws 203 that protrude axially from the radially outer end and have engaging female parts (second engaging parts) 203a at their tips that engage with the engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201.

[0079] (others) The embodiments described above are merely illustrative examples of the present invention. The configuration of the embodiments may be modified as appropriate without exceeding the technical spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the embodiments may be combined as possible. For example, in the first to fifth embodiments, the base portion 23 is located on the exhaust side X1 in each housing 20, but each base portion 23 may be located on the intake side X2 to connect a pair of housings 20.

[0080] Alternatively, the pair of housings 20 may be connected by bringing the base portions 23 into contact with each other. Alternatively, the pair of housings 20 may be connected by placing the base portions 23 opposite each other in the axial direction with a pair of motors 12 in between.

[0081] Furthermore, in the third to fifth embodiments, the engaging male parts (first engaging parts) 201 and 404 may be made female, and the engaging female parts (second engaging parts) 202a, 203a, 401a, 402a, and 403a may be made male and engaged with each other.

[0082] (Note) As described above, a blower (1) according to one aspect of the present disclosure is rotatable about a central axis (J) and comprises a pair of coaxially arranged impellers (101), a pair of housings (20) that extend along the central axis and are formed in a cylindrical shape with both axial end faces open and each housing the pair of impellers, a flow straightening grid (30) arranged between the pair of impellers and configured on a plane through which a tubular air passage (30a) through which airflow flows intersects in the axial direction, and a holding part (40) sandwiched between the pair of housings and holding the peripheral edge of the flow straightening grid, wherein the flow straightening grid and the holding part are made of separate components (first configuration).

[0083] Furthermore, in the first configuration described above, one of the pair of housings and the retaining part may have a plurality of first engaging parts (201) arranged on its radially outer surface, and the other of the pair of housings and the retaining part may have a plurality of engaging claws (202, 203) that protrude axially from the radially outer end and have second engaging parts (202a, 203a) at their tips that engage with the first engaging parts (second configuration).

[0084] Furthermore, in the first configuration described above, one of the pair of housings may have a plurality of first engaging portions (201) arranged on its radially outer surface, and the other of the pair of housings may have a plurality of engaging claws (203) that protrude axially from the radially outer end and have a second engaging portion (203a) at their tip that engages with the first engaging portion (third configuration).

[0085] Furthermore, in any of the first to third configurations described above, the first engaging portion may be convex, projecting radially, and the second engaging portion may be concave, with the first engaging portion positioned inside, and the first engaging portion having an inclined surface (201a) that slopes radially outward as it faces the projection direction of the engaging claw (fourth configuration).

[0086] Furthermore, in any of the first to fourth configurations described above, the pair of housings may be configured such that the internal airflow channels (3) facing the straightening grid expand radially outward as they approach the straightening grid (fifth configuration).

[0087] Furthermore, in any of the first to fifth configurations described above, the holding portion is composed of a holding member (140) that holds the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid, and the holding member has an annular holding support portion (142) that faces the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid in the axial direction, and a holding peripheral wall portion (143) that protrudes in the axial direction from the peripheral edge of the holding support portion and surrounds the rectifying grid from the radially outside, and the minimum radial distance (L) between the inner edge of the holding support portion and the inner edge of the holding peripheral wall portion may be greater than the axial thickness of the rectifying grid (sixth configuration).

[0088] Furthermore, in any of the above configurations 1 to 6, the rectifying grid may be configured such that the air passage is polygonal when viewed from the axial direction, and one side of the retaining peripheral wall portion is parallel to one side of the air passage when viewed from the axial direction (configuration 7).

[0089] Furthermore, in any of the first to seventh configurations described above, at least a portion of the retaining part may be made of a material that is more elastic than the pair of housings (eighth configuration).

[0090] Furthermore, in any of the first to eighth configurations described above, the holding portion may be configured to consist of a pair of clamping members (41) that clamp the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid from the axial direction (the ninth configuration).

[0091] Furthermore, in any of the first to ninth configurations described above, the clamping member may have an annular support portion (42) that faces the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid in the axial direction (X1-X2), and a peripheral wall portion (43) that protrudes axially from the peripheral edge of the support portion and surrounds the rectifying grid from the radially outer side (the tenth configuration).

[0092] Furthermore, in any of the first to tenth configurations described above, the inner circumferential surface of the support portion may be flush with the inner circumferential surface of the housing, or located radially outward from the inner circumferential surface of the housing (the eleventh configuration).

[0093] Furthermore, in any of the first to eleventh configurations described above, the inner circumferential edge of the support portion may be circular, and the inner circumferential surface of the housing may be cylindrical (the twelfth configuration).

[0094] Furthermore, in any of the first to twelfth configurations described above, the pair of housings may have housing screw holes (26a) located at the corners and penetrating axially, and the pair of clamping members may have clamping screw holes (44) located at the corners of the peripheral wall portion and penetrating axially, and the pair of housings and the pair of clamping members may be fastened together with screws inserted through the housing screw holes and the clamping screw holes (the thirteenth configuration).

[0095] Furthermore, in any of the above configurations 1 to 13, the flow straightening grid may be configured such that at its corners, its outer circumferential surface is convex inward in the radial direction, and the clamping member may be configured such that at its corners, its inner circumferential surface of the circumferential wall portion protrudes radially inward (configuration 14).

[0096] Furthermore, in any of the above configurations 1 to 14, each pair of clamping members may have a groove (45) formed by the outer circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion being recessed radially inward, and the grooves may be arranged to overlap in the axial direction (configuration 15). [Industrial applicability]

[0097] The present invention can be used, for example, in a blower for cooling a server. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1. Blower 12 motors 20 Housing 20a Housing screw holes 21 Air flow path 21a Intake 21b Exhaust port 22 Cylinder wall 23 Base section 24 Stator Wing Section 25 Bearing retaining part 26 Flange section 26a Housing screw holes 26b Housing groove 30, 130 rectifier grid 30a, 130a ventilation channels 40, 140 Holding part 41 Clamping member 42 Support part 43 Peripheral wall part 44 Clamping screw hole 45 Groove 101 Impeller 111 Torso 112 Blade section 113 Lid 113a Through hole 123 Status 124 Rotor 125 shaft 126 Bearing 141 Retaining member 142 Holding support part 143 Retaining peripheral wall part 201, 404 Engaging male part (first engaging part) 201a Slope 202, 203, 401, 402, 403 Engaging claws 202a, 203a, 401a, 402a, 403a Engaging female part (second engaging part) 1231 Stator Core 1232 coil 1241 Rotor yoke 1242 Magnet J center axis X1 Axial side (exhaust side) X2 Axial other side (intake side)

Claims

1. It is rotatable around a central axis and comprises a pair of impellers arranged coaxially, A pair of housings, each extending along the central axis and formed in a cylindrical shape with both axial end faces open, each housing a pair of the impellers, A flow straightening grid is arranged between a pair of impellers, and multiple tubular air passages through which airflow flows are arranged in a plane where they intersect in the axial direction. It comprises a holding portion sandwiched between a pair of housings and holding the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid, A blower in which the rectifying grid and the holding part are made of separate components.

2. One of the pair of housings and the retaining portion has a plurality of first engaging portions arranged on its radially outer surface, The blower according to claim 1, wherein the other of the pair of housings and the retaining portion has a plurality of engaging claws that protrude axially from the radially outer end and have a second engaging portion at the tip that engages with the first engaging portion.

3. One of the pair of housings has a plurality of first engaging portions arranged on its radially outer surface, The blower according to claim 1, wherein the other of the pair of housings has a plurality of engaging claws that protrude axially from the radially outer end and have a second engaging portion at the tip that engages with the first engaging portion.

4. The first engaging portion is convex, protruding radially. The second engaging portion is concave in the radial direction, and the first engaging portion is positioned inside it. The blower according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first engaging portion has an inclined surface that slopes radially outward as it faces the direction of protrusion of the engaging claw.

5. The blower according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the pair of housings have internal airflow channels facing the straightening grid that expand radially outward as they approach the straightening grid.

6. The holding portion is composed of a holding member that holds the peripheral edge of the flow straightening grid, The aforementioned retaining member is The peripheral edge of the rectifying grid and an annular holding support portion facing it in the axial direction, It has a retaining peripheral wall portion that protrudes axially from the peripheral edge of the retaining support portion and surrounds the rectifying grid from the radially outer side, The blower according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the minimum radial distance between the inner peripheral edge of the retaining support portion and the inner peripheral edge of the retaining peripheral wall portion is greater than the axial thickness of the rectifying grid.

7. The aforementioned rectifying grid is such that the ventilation passage is polygonal when viewed from the axial direction. The blower according to claim 6, wherein one side of the retaining peripheral wall is parallel to one side of the ventilation passage when viewed from the axial direction.

8. The blower according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the holding portion is made of a material that is more elastic than the pair of housings.

9. The blower according to claim 1, wherein the holding portion is composed of a pair of clamping members that clamp the peripheral edge of the rectifying grid from the axial direction.

10. The clamping member is, The peripheral edge of the rectifying grid and an annular support portion facing it in the axial direction, The blower according to claim 9, further comprising a peripheral wall portion that protrudes axially from the peripheral edge of the support portion and surrounds the rectifying grid from the radially outer side.

11. The blower according to claim 10, wherein the inner circumferential surface of the support portion is flush with the inner circumferential surface of the housing, or is located radially outward from the inner circumferential surface of the housing.

12. The inner periphery of the support portion is circular, The blower according to claim 11, wherein the housing is cylindrical.

13. The pair of housings have housing screw holes located at the corners and penetrating axially, The pair of clamping members are positioned at the corners of the peripheral wall portion and have clamping screw holes that penetrate axially. The blower according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein a pair of housings and a pair of clamping members are screwed together via screws inserted through the housing screw holes and the clamping screw holes.

14. The rectifying grid has an outer surface that is convex inward in the radial direction at its corners. The air blower according to claim 13, wherein at the corner of the clamping member, the inner surface of the peripheral wall portion protrudes radially inward.

15. Each of the pair of clamping members has a groove formed by the outer circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion being recessed radially inward, The aforementioned grooves are arranged to overlap in the axial direction, as described in claim 10 or claim 11.

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