Air conditioning system

Abstract

To create a water storage container with a smooth surface and easy maintenance, we provide a means for detecting the presence or absence of liquid in the water storage container with high precision, without using a float with a built-in magnet. [Solution] The main body case 2 has an air intake port 7 and an air outlet port 8. The water storage container 19 is located in a cavity within the main body case 2, partially enclosed by a partition wall, and stores water. The blower 3 draws in air from the air intake port 7, adds water from the water storage container 19, and blows it out to the air outlet port 8. At least a portion of the air blown by the blower 3 comes into contact with the side surface of the water storage container 19.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air conditioner that uses electrolyzed water obtained by passing an electric current through water to remove bacteria, fungi, viruses, odors, etc. in the air.

Background Art

[0002] Conventional air conditioners include a main body case, a water storage container, a water supply means for automatically supplying water so that the water level in the water storage container becomes constant, and a means for detecting the presence or absence of the water storage container and the liquid in the water storage container. When two detection means are provided to detect the presence or absence of the water storage container and the liquid in the water storage container, there is a problem that the device becomes large-sized, and one detection means realizes two detection means. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] As such a configuration for detecting the presence or absence of the conventional water storage container and the liquid in the water storage container, a float portion with a built-in magnet that floats according to the water level in the water storage container is provided in the water storage container, and a detection element that can detect the magnetic field of the magnet is provided on the main body case side. Since the float with a built-in magnet that floats according to the water level is rotatably provided in the water storage container, the water storage container has an uneven shape, and there is a problem that the water storage container is difficult to maintain. Further, when water is repeatedly supplied to the water storage container, scale, which is an inorganic salt such as calcium contained in tap water, is deposited on the side surface and bottom surface of the water storage container. Since the scale can retain water, when the scale deposited at the water level without water retains water, the detection accuracy of the water level may decrease depending on the detection method.

[0005] Therefore, this disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems and to provide a water storage container and a means for detecting the presence or absence of liquid inside the water storage container with high precision without using a float with a built-in magnet, in order to create a water storage container that is easy to clean by minimizing uneven shapes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the above problems, an air conditioning device in one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a main body case having an air intake and an air outlet; a water storage container provided in a cavity within the main body case, partially enclosed by a partition wall, for storing water; a blower that blows air drawn in from the air intake into the water storage container and blows it out to the air outlet; an electrostatic sensor provided in the partition wall for detecting capacitance; and a control unit that stores the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor. The cavity extends horizontally inward from one side of the main body case, the electrostatic sensor is provided so as to face the water in the water storage container via the partition wall and the side of the water storage container, the control unit detects a predetermined water level in the water storage container based on the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor, and at least a portion of the air blown by the blower comes into contact with the side of the water storage container.

[0007] Furthermore, any combination of the above components, as well as conversions of the expressions of this disclosure between methods, apparatus, systems, recording media, computer programs, etc., are also valid as aspects of this disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to obtain the effect of detecting with high accuracy whether or not there is liquid in a water storage container. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Perspective view of an air conditioning system according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure [Figure 2] Perspective view of the air conditioning unit with the panel open. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the cross-sectional configuration of the air conditioning unit as viewed from the right side of the front. [Figure 4]Partial exploded perspective view of the air conditioner [Figure 5] Partial exploded perspective view of the air conditioner [Figure 6] Exploded perspective view of the tank member of the air conditioner [Figure 7] Diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the tank member of the air conditioner [Figure 8] Diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container of the air conditioner [Figure 9] Diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container and the tank member of the air conditioner [Figure 10] Perspective view of the water storage container of the air conditioner [Figure 11] Partial exploded perspective view of the air conditioner [Figure 12] Diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container and the electrostatic sensor of the air conditioner [Figure 13] Block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioner [Figure 14] Diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container of the air conditioner [Figure 15] Diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container of the air conditioner [Figure 16] Diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container of the air conditioner [Figure 17] Figures 17(a)-(c) are diagrams showing the relationship between capacitance and water level [Figure 18] Diagram showing the table stored in the storage unit of Embodiment 2 of the present disclosure [Figure 19] Flowchart showing the air volume control procedure by the air conditioner of Embodiment 2 of the present disclosure [Figure 20] Figures 20(a)-(c) are diagrams showing the table stored in the storage unit of Embodiment 3 of the present disclosure [Figure 21] Flowchart showing the air volume control procedure by the air conditioner of Embodiment 3 of the present disclosure

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] (Embodiment 1) The first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are perspective views of the air conditioner 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that FIG. 1 is a view of the air conditioner seen obliquely from above on the front side, and FIG. 2 is a view of the air conditioner 1 with the panel opened seen obliquely from above on the front side. FIG. 3 is a view showing a cross-sectional configuration of the air conditioner 1 seen from the right side facing the front.

[0012] In the following, as shown in FIG. 1, in the state where the air conditioner is installed (hereinafter also referred to as the "installed state"), the vertical direction may be described as the up-and-down direction and the horizontal direction may be described as the left-and-right direction. Further, in the installed state, the surface of the air conditioner on which the panel 9 is provided is referred to as the "right side surface", and the surface facing the right side surface of the air conditioner is referred to as the "left side surface". The left side as seen from the right side surface of the air conditioner is the "front surface", and the right side as seen from the right side surface of the air conditioner is the "rear surface".

[0013] Hereinafter, the detailed configuration of the air conditioner 1 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the air conditioner 1 according to the present embodiment includes a substantially box-shaped main body case 2, a blower 3, an air conditioning unit 4, a control unit 5, and an operation unit 6.

[0014] The main body case 2 has a vertically long substantially box shape, and an intake port 7, an outlet port 8, and a panel 9 are provided in the main body case 2.

[0015] The intake port 7 is provided on the left and right side surfaces of the main body case 2.

[0016] The outlet port 8 is provided on the rear side of the top surface of the main body case 2. An operation unit 6 is provided on the front side of the top surface of the main body case 2.

[0017] A closable panel 9 is provided on one side surface of the main body case 2. When the panel 9 is opened, an air conditioning unit 4 is provided in the main body case 2.

[0018] As shown in Figure 3, the main body case 2 is provided with an air passage 11 (indicated by an arrow) that connects the air intake 7 and the air outlet 8. The air passage 11 is provided with, in order from the air intake 7, an air conditioning unit 4 (including a water storage container 19 and a filter section, which will be described later), a blower 3, and an air outlet 8.

[0019] The blower 3 is located at the top of the main body case 2 and comprises a motor unit 12, a fan unit 13 that rotates with respect to the motor unit 12, and a scroll-shaped casing unit 14 that surrounds them.

[0020] The motor unit 12 is a single-shaft motor, and the rotating shaft 15 of the motor unit 12 extends from the front side to the rear side of the main body case 2.

[0021] The fan unit 13 is a sirocco fan and is fixed to the tip of a rotating shaft 15 that extends horizontally from the motor unit 12.

[0022] The casing section 14 is provided with a discharge port 16 and an intake port (not shown). The discharge port 16 is located on the upper side of the main body case 2 of the casing section 14. The intake port is located on the rear side of the main body case 2 of the casing section 14. When the fan section 13 rotates due to the motor section 12, air from outside the casing section 14 flows into the casing section 14 through the intake port, and air is blown out of the casing section 14 through the discharge port 16.

[0023] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the air conditioning system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the air conditioning system 1 viewed from the front and slightly above, with the panel 9 open and the tank member 20 removed. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the air conditioning system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the air conditioning system 1 viewed from the front and slightly above, with the panel 9 open and the water storage container 19 removed.

[0024] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the air conditioning unit 4 is located within the cavity 10. The cavity 10 is a recessed hole extending from one side (right side) of the main body case 2 to the other side (left side) of the main body case 2. The air conditioning unit 4 can be removed from the cavity 10 to the outside of the main body case 2. The air conditioning unit 4 comprises a water storage container 19, a tank member 20, and a gas-liquid contact portion 21.

[0025] The water storage container 19 is made of resin, has a bowl shape with an opening on the top, and is structured to store water. An example of the material is ABS resin. The water storage container 19 is located at the bottom of the main body case 2 and is detachably positioned by opening the panel 9 and sliding it horizontally from the cavity 10. The water storage container 19 stores water supplied from the tank member 20.

[0026] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the tank member 20 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the tank member 20 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container 19 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container 19 of the first embodiment of the present disclosure with the tank member 20 and the gas-liquid contact portion 21 attached.

[0027] As shown in Figures 6 to 9, the tank member 20 is installed in the lower part inside the main body case 2 and has a structure that allows it to be attached to and detached from the water storage container 19. The bottom surface of the water storage container 19 is provided with a tank holding portion 23 that protrudes upward.

[0028] The tank member 20 is mounted on the bottom surface of the water storage container 19 at the position of the tank holding portion 23. The tank member 20 has a tank 24 for storing water, an opening 24a provided on the bottom surface of the tank 24 that connects the inside of the tank 24 to the outside of the tank 24, and a lid 25 that covers the opening 24a.

[0029] The lid 25 has a hole 25b in the center that communicates vertically, a valve 26 that opens and closes the hole 25b, and a cylindrical portion 25a that surrounds the hole 25b, with its central axis extending vertically and protruding downward from the lid 25. The hole 25b is located in the center when viewed in the direction of the central axis of the cylindrical portion 25a.

[0030] In the above configuration, when the opening 24a of the tank 24 is facing downwards and the tank member 20 is attached to the tank holding part 23 of the water storage container 19, the valve part 26 is opened by the tank holding part 23. In other words, when water is placed in the tank member 20 and attached to the tank holding part 23, the valve part 26 moves upwards by the tank holding part 23, and the hole 25b of the lid 25 opens. When the hole 25b of the lid 25 opens, the water in the tank 24 is supplied to the water storage container 19 through the hole 25b of the lid 25, and water accumulates in the water storage container 19.

[0031] When the water level in the water storage container 19 rises and reaches the upper end of the notch 25c at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 25a of the lid 25, the hole 25b of the tank member 20 is sealed with water, and the water supply stops. Water remains inside the tank member 20, and whenever the water level in the water storage container 19 drops, water from inside the tank is supplied to the water storage container 19. In other words, the water level in the water storage container 19 is kept constant.

[0032] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a water storage container 19 of the first embodiment of this disclosure with a gas-liquid contact portion 21 attached.

[0033] As shown in Figures 8 and 10, the gas-liquid contact portion 21 is a component that brings the water stored in the water storage container 19 into contact with the indoor air drawn into the main body case 2 by the blower 3. The gas-liquid contact portion 21 includes a filter 27, a filter frame 28, and a drive unit 29.

[0034] The filter 27 is cylindrical in shape and has holes in its circumference that allow air to flow through. The filter 27 is mounted on the filter frame 28 such that one end of the filter 27 is immersed in the water in the water storage container 19.

[0035] The filter frame 28 is rotatably supported by a bearing portion 30 provided in the water storage container 19. The filter 27 and the filter frame 28 are structured to rotate by a drive unit 29.

[0036] The indoor air drawn into the main unit case 2 through the air intake 7 by the blower 3 is blown to a filter 27 whose lower end is immersed in water stored in the water storage container 19. The air blown to the filter 27 comes into contact with the water retained in the filter 27, becoming humid air, which is then blown out into the room outside the main unit case 2 through the outlet 8.

[0037] The control unit 5 controls the drive unit 29 of the gas-liquid contact portion 21 and the motor unit 12 of the blower 3. Specifically, the control unit 5 controls the operation of the drive unit 29 of the gas-liquid contact portion 21 and the rotation speed of the fan unit 13 of the blower 3 in response to the operation of the operation unit 6.

[0038] When the fan unit 13 rotates due to the motor unit 12 of the blower 3, air is blown into the air passage 11. As the fan unit 13 rotates, outside air that has entered the main body case 2 from the intake port 7 is sequentially blown out of the main body case 2 via the filter 27, the blower 3, and the outlet port 8. The air conditioning device 1 humidifies the air by blowing air onto the filter 27, which is immersed in water in the water storage container 19, thereby vaporizing the moisture retained by the filter 27.

[0039] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the air conditioning device 1 viewed from the side and slightly above, with the panel 9 opened and the tank member 20 removed. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the cross-sectional configuration of the water storage container and electrostatic sensor in the main body case of the first embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the right side. Figure 13 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the air conditioning device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] As shown in Figures 3, 11, 12, and 13, the cavity 10, which is a hole extending horizontally inward from one side (right side) of the main body case 2, is partially enclosed by an isolation wall 39 inside the main body case. A water storage container for storing water is installed horizontally and detachably inside the cavity 10, which is partially enclosed by the isolation wall 39. The isolation wall 39 is equipped with a capacitive electrostatic sensor 40 for detecting capacitance. Inside the main body case 2, there is a control unit 5 that stores the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 and, based on the change in capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40, can determine when to attach the water storage container 19 to the cavity 10 and when to detect a predetermined water level in the water storage container 19.

[0041] The isolation wall 39 consists of surfaces provided on the front, back, and left sides of the water storage container 19, as viewed from the front of the air conditioning unit 1. The isolation wall 39 is made of resin, and one example of the material is ABS resin. The isolation wall 39 surrounds at least a portion of the back, left side, and front of the main body case 2 of the water storage container 19.

[0042] Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the area near the electrostatic sensor, seen from the right side facing the front of the air conditioning unit. The electrostatic sensor 40 detects capacitance. One example of the electrostatic sensor 40 is a sensor that can be used to detect the presence and position of an object without touching it, by utilizing the fact that each object has a different capacitance and detecting changes in the space detectable by the electrostatic sensor as changes in capacitance. The electrostatic sensor 40 is equipped with a pair of electrodes. The electrostatic sensor 40 may be equipped with only one electrode. The capacitance of the electrodes changes depending on the distance between the electrostatic sensor 40 and the water. For example, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 decreases as the distance between the electrostatic sensor 40 and the water increases. The electrostatic sensor 40 is installed on the side of the isolation wall 39 which is perpendicular to the water surface, so as to face the water in the water storage container 19 via the side of the water storage container 19. Here, the water storage container 19 and the isolation wall 39 are configured such that the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when the water storage container 19 is installed in the cavity 10 is greater than the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when the water storage container 19 is not installed in the cavity 10, and the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when the water storage container 19 with a predetermined water level is installed in the cavity 10 is greater than the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when the water storage container 19 without water is installed in the cavity 10.

[0043] Specifically, when a water storage container 19 without water is installed in the cavity 10, the electrostatic sensor 40 detects the change in capacitance due to the water storage container 19 in addition to the isolation wall 39 facing the electrostatic sensor 40. When the water storage container 19 is not installed in the cavity 10, the electrostatic sensor 40 detects the capacitance of the isolation wall 39 facing the electrostatic sensor 40. The material of the water storage container 19 is resin, and since resin has a higher capacitance than air, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when the water storage container 19 is installed in the cavity 10 is greater than the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when only air is present in the cavity 10 without the water storage container 19.

[0044] Furthermore, when a water storage container 19 without water is installed in the cavity 10, the electrostatic sensor 40 detects the capacitance of the water storage container 19 facing the electrostatic sensor 40. When a water storage container 19 with a predetermined water level is installed in the cavity 10, the electrostatic sensor 40 detects the capacitance of the water storage container 19 facing the electrostatic sensor 40 and the capacitance of the water inside the water storage container 19 facing the electrostatic sensor 40. Since the material of the water storage container 19 is resin, the capacitance of the water inside the water storage container 19 is greater than the capacitance of the water storage container 19. The capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when a water storage container 19 with a predetermined water level is installed in the cavity 10 is greater than the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when a water storage container 19 without water is installed in the cavity 10.

[0045] As a result, the control unit 5 can detect the installation of the water storage container 19 into the cavity 10 and the water level in the water storage container 19 based on the change in capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40. When the control unit 5 detects the installation of the water storage container 19 and the water level in the water storage container 19 using the electrostatic sensor 40, it controls the operation of the drive unit 29 of the gas-liquid contact part 21 and the rotation speed of the fan unit 13 of the blower 3 in accordance with the operation of the operation unit 6.

[0046] Furthermore, the electrostatic sensor 40 is provided on the outer surface of the isolation wall 39. Specifically, the electrostatic sensor 40 is positioned to face the water storage container 19, via the isolation wall 39 located behind the water storage container 19, as viewed from the front of the air conditioner 1. The isolation wall 39 located at the rear spatially separates the electrostatic sensor 40 from the cavity 10. As a result, the user cannot touch the electrostatic sensor 40, ensuring safety, and preventing malfunctions, deterioration, and misalignment of the electrostatic sensor 40.

[0047] Furthermore, the minimum distance between the portion of the isolation wall 39 where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed and the side of the water storage container 19 is smaller than the thickness of the side plate of the water storage container 19. Specifically, the water storage container 19 is removable, and in order to enable this, there is a gap between the isolation wall 39, which is located behind the water storage container 19 when viewed from the front of the air conditioner 1, and the water storage container 19. This gap is not uniform due to its slope, etc. The minimum distance of this gap is smaller than the thickness of the side plate of the water storage container 19 that is opposed to the electrostatic sensor 40. The thickness of the side plate of the water storage container 19 is, for example, between 1.0 mm and 3.0 mm. This allows the distance between the electrostatic sensor 40 and the liquid inside the water storage container 19 to be reduced, enabling sensitive detection of changes in capacitance.

[0048] Furthermore, the minimum distance between the portion of the isolation wall 39 where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed and the side of the water storage container 19 is smaller than the thickness of the portion of the isolation wall 39 where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed. Specifically, the thickness of the portion of the isolation wall 39 where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed is, for example, 0.5 mm to 3.0 mm. This allows the electrostatic sensor 40 to be brought closer to the liquid in the water storage container 19, enabling sensitive detection of changes in capacitance.

[0049] Furthermore, the thickness of the isolation wall 39 is smallest in the portion where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed. Specifically, the isolation wall 39 has a certain thickness to ensure the strength of the product. The thickness of only the portion where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed only needs to be thick enough to hold the electrostatic sensor 40, and is therefore the smallest in thickness compared to the isolation wall 39 in the portion where the electrostatic sensor 40 is not installed. This allows the distance between the electrostatic sensor 40 and the liquid in the water storage container 19 to be reduced, enabling sensitive detection of changes in capacitance.

[0050] Figures 14 and 15 are cross-sectional views from above of an air conditioning system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 14 and 15 have different cross-sectional heights. As shown in Figures 14 and 15, there is a distance regulating section 41 that regulates the distance between the electrostatic sensor 40 and the water storage container 19. The distance regulating section 41 has a front regulating section 42 and a rear regulating section 43.

[0051] The front regulating portion 42 is located in front of the electrostatic sensor 40 in the insertion direction of the water storage container 19 when the water storage container 19 is installed in the cavity 10. Specifically, the front regulating portion 42 has a front water storage regulating portion 42a provided on the water storage container 19 and a front isolation regulating portion 42b provided on the isolation wall 39.

[0052] The forward water storage restriction section 42a has a shape in which a surface or protrusion protrudes from the water storage container 19, or a shape that can accommodate a surface or protrusion.

[0053] The front isolation restriction portion 42b is shaped to be inserted into or into the front water storage restriction portion 42a, corresponding to its shape. Furthermore, the distance of the gap between the front water storage restriction portion 42a and the front isolation restriction portion 42b is smaller than the minimum distance between the portion of the isolation wall 39 where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed and the side of the water storage container 19.

[0054] As a result, the minimum distance between the portion of the isolation wall 39 where the electrostatic sensor 40 is provided and the side of the water storage container 19 on the front side restricting portion 42 will not vary by more than the minimum distance, and even if the minimum distance varies due to the attachment and detachment of the water storage container 19, the variation in capacitance can be kept small, enabling the attachment of the water storage container 19 to the cavity 10 and the detection of water at a predetermined level.

[0055] The rear regulating section 43 is located behind the electrostatic sensor 40 in the insertion direction of the water storage container 19 when the water storage container 19 is installed in the cavity 10. Specifically, the rear regulating section 43 has a rear water storage regulating section 43a provided on the water storage container 19 and a rear isolation regulating section 43b provided on the isolation wall 39.

[0056] The rear water storage restriction section 43a has a shape in which a surface parallel to the isolation wall 39 on which the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed protrudes from the water storage container 19.

[0057] The rear isolation restriction section 43b is shaped to interlock with the shape of the rear water storage restriction section 43a. Furthermore, the distance of the gap between the rear water storage restriction section 43a and the rear isolation restriction section 43b is smaller than the minimum distance between the portion of the isolation wall 39 where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed and the side of the water storage container 19.

[0058] As a result, the minimum distance between the portion of the isolation wall 39 where the electrostatic sensor 40 is installed and the side of the water storage container 19 on the rear side of the restricting portion will not vary by more than the minimum distance, and even if the minimum distance varies due to the attachment and detachment of the water storage container 19, the variation in capacitance can be kept small, enabling the attachment of the water storage container 19 to the cavity 10 and the detection of water at a predetermined level.

[0059] Figure 16 is a front cross-sectional view of the air conditioning device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 16, the cavity and the water storage container have temporary fixing parts 44 that temporarily fix the water storage container 19 inside the cavity when the water storage container 19 is inserted into the cavity 10 to a predetermined position. When the water storage container 19 is temporarily fixed inside the cavity 10, the distance between the electrostatic sensor 40 and the water storage container 19 is restricted by the front restricting part 42 and the rear restricting part 43.

[0060] The temporary fixing portion 44 is claw-shaped and extends from the bottom surface of the cavity 10 toward the inside of the cavity 10. The water storage container 19 is provided with a shape corresponding to the temporary fixing portion 44, and when the water storage container 19 is inserted into the cavity 10, the temporary fixing portion 44 catches on the water storage container 19, temporarily fixing the water storage container 19 inside the cavity 10.

[0061] This restricts the distance between the electrostatic sensor 40 and the water storage container 19, allowing for accurate detection of capacitance and enabling detection of the presence or absence of the water storage container 19 and the presence or absence of liquid inside the water storage container 19.

[0062] In the air conditioning system 1 described above, the electrostatic sensor 40 is provided on the outer surface of the isolation wall 39 and is positioned to face the water in the water storage container 19 via the side surface of the water storage container 19 from the isolation wall 39, and detects capacitance. The control unit 5 stores the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 and detects a predetermined water level based on the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40. Therefore, in the air conditioning system 1, the water level in the water storage container 19 is detected by utilizing the characteristic that the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 changes depending on the surrounding substances, that is, the characteristic that the capacitance changes depending on how much water is present near the electrostatic sensor 40. In other words, if the capacitance value detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 falls below a threshold, the control unit 5 considers the water in the water storage container 19 to be depleted and prompts the user to replenish the water in the tank 24. Prompting the user to replenish the water in the tank 24 is done, for example, by turning on or flashing a light (not shown) provided on the operation unit 6. In this context, a drought does not necessarily mean that the water in the storage container 19 is completely depleted; a state in which a small amount of water remains in the storage container 19 may also be considered a drought.

[0063] When water is supplied in this manner repeatedly, scale, which consists of inorganic salts such as calcium, magnesium, and silica contained in tap water, will precipitate on the sides or bottom of the water storage container 19. Since scale can retain water, if scale precipitates at a water level where there is no water, the electrostatic sensor 40 may mistakenly detect the presence of water even though there is no water at that level. The air conditioning device 1 according to this embodiment has the following structure in order to promptly remove the moisture contained in the scale precipitated on the sides or bottom of the water storage container 19.

[0064] Figures 17(a)-(c) show the relationship between capacitance and water level. Figure 17(a) shows the relationship between capacitance and water level under normal conditions. The horizontal axis represents the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40, and the vertical axis represents the water level in the water storage container 19. In this case, changes in the water level in the water storage container 19 are perceived as changes in capacitance. Therefore, a threshold capacitance corresponding to a water level above the drought level is set in advance, and when the capacitance measured by the electrostatic sensor 40 reaches the threshold, the control unit 5 detects a drought. The threshold value is stored in the memory unit 50 (Figure 13).

[0065] In Figure 12 above, an opening 60 is located on the upper side of the water storage container 19, and a bottom 62 is located on the lower side of the water storage container 19. A stepped surface 64 extending horizontally is located at the height between the opening 60 and the bottom 62 of the water storage container 19. The stepped surface 64 may be inclined to slope downward toward the inside of the water storage container 19. The area of ​​the water storage container 19 below the stepped surface 64 (the area of ​​the water surface when there is a water surface below the stepped surface 64) becomes sharply smaller than the area of ​​the water storage container 19 above the stepped surface 64 (the area of ​​the water surface when there is a water surface above the stepped surface 64). The height corresponding to the stepped surface 64 is defined as the boundary position 66. For example, the boundary position 66 is higher than the drought water level. The boundary position 66 may also be defined as the drought water level.

[0066] Since the area of ​​the water storage container 19 changes abruptly at boundary position 66, the change in capacitance in response to the change in water level in the part below boundary position 66 is steeper than the change in capacitance in response to the change in water level in the part above boundary position 66. In other words, the stepped surface 64 is provided to make it easier to detect drought by taking advantage of the fact that the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 changes abruptly because water rapidly moves away from the electrostatic sensor 40 near boundary position 66. The capacitance corresponding to boundary position 66 is set as the threshold value mentioned above.

[0067] When the air conditioner 1 performs humidification operation, the water level in the water storage container 19 decreases, and water droplets adhere to the stepped surface 64 or the wall surface of the water storage container 19. When the moisture adhering to the stepped surface 64 or the wall surface of the water storage container 19 dries, the moisture precipitates as scale. Figure 17(b) shows the relationship between capacitance and water level when scale is retaining water. When scale retains water, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 increases. In other words, even if the water level in the water storage container 19 is the same, if scale that was present at the water level without water is retaining water, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 will be higher than when scale is not retaining water (scale is not present on the stepped surface 64 or wall surface). As a result, the water level when the capacitance reaches the threshold will be lower than the boundary position 66 (water level of depletion). In other words, depletion becomes less likely to be detected.

[0068] Figure 17(c) shows the relationship between capacitance and water level under conditions of repeated water supply and drought, as seen in Figure 17(b). As water supply and drought are repeated, the scale increases, and the water retention of the increased scale causes the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 to remain high and saturate, thus not reaching the threshold. As a result, drought is not detected.

[0069] In order to accurately detect the presence or absence of liquid in the water storage container 19, the effect of water retention due to scale should be reduced. To this end, the air conditioning device 1 according to this embodiment is configured as follows. In Figure 3, if the height of the air conditioning device 1 is "10", the air intake port 7 has a height of approximately "0 to 6". As described above, the blower 3 blows air drawn in from the air intake port 7 to the outlet port 8 via the air conditioning unit 4, but air is drawn in from various heights at the air intake port 7. Therefore, there is an airflow in the air passage 11 from various heights. As a result, at least a portion of the air blown by the blower 3 reaches the stepped surface 64 or the side surface (back side) of the water storage container 19 and comes into contact with the stepped surface 64 or the side surface of the water storage container 19. By the air coming into contact with the stepped surface 64 or the side surface of the water storage container 19, moisture contained in the scale on the stepped surface 64 or the side surface of the water storage container 19 is removed.

[0070] According to this embodiment, at least a portion of the air blown by the blower 3 comes into contact with the side surface of the water storage container 19, so that moisture contained in scale can be removed early. Also, because moisture contained in scale deposited on the side surface of the water storage container 19 is removed early, the presence or absence of liquid in the water storage container 19 can be detected with high precision without using a float with a built-in magnet, in order to minimize the uneven shape and make the water storage container 19 easy to clean. In addition, because the water storage container 19 has a step, water can be rapidly moved away from the electrostatic sensor 40 when near the low water level. Also, because water is rapidly moved away from the electrostatic sensor 40 when near the low water level, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 can be changed abruptly. Also, because the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 changes abruptly, the low water level can be easily detected.

[0071] (Embodiment 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. Embodiment 2 relates to an air conditioning device 1 similar to Embodiment 1. Embodiment 2 relates to the processing when the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 falls below a threshold. Note that the threshold in Embodiment 2 is different from the threshold in Embodiment 1. The threshold in Embodiment 1 is a value set to detect the water level of a drought, as shown in Figure 17(a). The threshold in Embodiment 2 may be higher than the threshold in Embodiment 1. Hereinafter, the threshold in the embodiment of Embodiment 2 will be described as being higher than the threshold in Embodiment 1. In other words, a first threshold set to detect the water level of a drought and a second threshold higher than the first threshold are provided. The second threshold is smaller than the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 when the water level in the water storage container 19 is at the upper end of the notch 25c at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 25a of the lid 25. When the water level in the water storage container 19 is at the upper end of the notch 25c at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 25a of the lid 25, it can also be said that the water in the water storage container 19 is full. Note that "full" as used here may refer to a state where the water storage container 19 is not 100% filled with water. This section will focus on explaining the differences from Embodiment 1.

[0072] As described above, the control unit 5 compares the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 with a threshold value stored in the memory unit 50. The capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 corresponds to the detected water level. Figure 18 shows the table stored in the memory unit 50. The table shows the conditions for comparing capacitance with a threshold value (second threshold value) and the airflow rate. The control unit 5 determines the airflow rate "A1" when the capacitance is greater than or equal to the threshold value (second threshold value), and determines the airflow rate "A2" when the capacitance is less than the threshold value (second threshold value). Here, the airflow rate "A2" is greater than the airflow rate "A1". The control unit 5 operates the motor unit 12 according to the determined airflow rate. In other words, when the water level approaches low water level, the airflow rate of the blower 3 is increased. Note that if the airflow rate of the blower 3 is originally set to high airflow rate (A2), the airflow rate of the blower 3 is not changed. Here, "A2" may also be the maximum airflow rate that can be set. Furthermore, "A2" may have an airflow of more than half of the maximum settable airflow.

[0073] The subject of the apparatus, system, or method in this disclosure comprises a computer. The functions of the subject of the apparatus, system, or method in this disclosure are realized by the computer executing a program. The computer comprises a processor as its main hardware component, which operates according to the program. The processor is of any type as long as it can realize its functions by executing the program. The processor consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or LSIs (Large Scale Integrations). Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated on one chip or provided on multiple chips. Multiple chips may be aggregated in one device or provided on multiple devices. The program is recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a ROM, optical disc, or hard disk drive that is readable by the computer. The program may be pre-stored on the recording medium or supplied to the recording medium via a wide-area communication network, including the Internet.

[0074] The operation of the air conditioning system 1 with the above configuration will now be explained. Figure 19 is a flowchart showing the airflow control procedure by the air conditioning system 1. The electrostatic sensor 40 detects capacitance (S10). If the capacitance is greater than or equal to a threshold (second threshold) (Y in S12), the control unit 5 sets the airflow of the blower 3 to A1 (S14). On the other hand, if the capacitance is not greater than or equal to a threshold (second threshold) (N in S12), the control unit 5 sets the airflow of the blower 3 to A2 (S16).

[0075] According to this embodiment, the airflow of the blower 3 is increased when the detected water level is below the threshold, rather than when the detected water level is above the threshold, so that the moisture contained in the scale can be dried earlier. Also, because the moisture contained in the scale is dried earlier, the accuracy of water level detection can be improved. Furthermore, the airflow of the blower 3 can be increased when scale (water-retaining scale) is at a position higher than the water surface (water level without water), so that unnecessary high-airflow operation can be suppressed. In other words, efficient drying of water-retaining scale can be performed. In addition, when the detected capacitance is below the threshold, the airflow of the blower 3 is operated at a high airflow, so that the moisture contained in the scale can be dried earlier.

[0076] (Embodiment 3) Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. Embodiment 3 relates to an air conditioning device 1 similar to the previous one. When the air conditioning device 1 performs humidification, the water level in the water storage container 19 decreases over time. Therefore, the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 also decreases over time. When the air conditioning device 1 performs humidification, if the change in capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 is small relative to the amount of humidification, it can be inferred that a large amount of scale has precipitated. In other words, the water level inferred from the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 may differ from the actual water level due to the water-retained scale. In the air conditioning device 1 according to Embodiment 3, if the change in capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 is small relative to the amount of humidification, the airflow of the blower 3 is increased to dry the water retained by the scale in a short time. Here, the differences from the previous one will be explained in detail.

[0077] In Embodiment 3, the amount of humidification by the air conditioner 1 is estimated based on the ambient temperature, using the relationship that the higher the temperature of the space in which the air conditioner 1 is installed (hereinafter referred to as "ambient temperature"), the greater the amount of humidification per unit time by the air conditioner 1. The air conditioner 1 is equipped with a temperature sensor (not shown), which measures the ambient temperature. The temperature sensor outputs the ambient temperature to the control unit 5 (Figure 13).

[0078] The control unit 5 receives the ambient temperature from the temperature sensor. The control unit 5 refers to a table stored in the memory unit 50 and estimates the amount of humidification per unit time by the air conditioner 1 from the ambient temperature. An example of a unit time is 1 hour. The unit time may be shorter or longer than 1 hour. Figures 20(a)-(c) show the table stored in the memory unit 50. In the table shown in Figure 20(a), ambient temperature and the amount of humidification per unit time are associated. In ambient temperature, "B1", "B2", ..., "BN" are sorted in ascending order. On the other hand, in humidification per unit time, "C1", "C2", ..., "CN" are sorted in ascending order. In other words, the higher the ambient temperature, the greater the amount of humidification per unit time. To explain in more detail, when the humidity in the space is the same, the higher the ambient temperature, the greater the amount of humidification per unit time. Each value in the table is obtained in advance by simulation or experiment. Figures 20(b)-(c) will be discussed later, and we will return to Figure 13.

[0079] The control unit 5 obtains a threshold value from the humidification rate per unit time by referring to another table stored in the memory unit 50. The threshold value is the threshold value for the change in capacitance per unit time. In another table shown in Figure 20(b), the humidification rate per unit time and the threshold value are also associated. In the humidification rate per unit time, "C1", "C2", ..., "CN" are sorted in ascending order. In the threshold value, "D1", "D2", ..., "DN" are sorted in ascending order. These relationships are based on the fact that as the humidification rate per unit time increases, the change in capacitance per unit time also increases. Each value in the other table is obtained in advance by simulation or experiment. Figure 20(c) will be described later, and we will return to Figure 13.

[0080] The control unit 5 periodically receives the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 and obtains the change in capacitance per unit time by calculating the difference in capacitance between capacitances separated by a unit time. The control unit 5 compares the obtained change in capacitance per unit time with the obtained threshold value. Figure 20(c) shows yet another table stored in the memory unit 50. This yet another table shows the conditions under which the change in capacitance per unit time is compared with the threshold value, and the airflow rate. The control unit 5 determines the airflow rate "A1" when the change in capacitance per unit time is greater than or equal to the threshold value, and determines the airflow rate "A2" when the change in capacitance per unit time is less than the threshold value. Here, the airflow rate "A2" is greater than the airflow rate "A1". The control unit 5 operates the motor unit 12 according to the determined airflow rate. In other words, the airflow rate of the blower 3 is increased when the change in capacitance per unit time is less than the threshold value, rather than when the change in capacitance per unit time is greater than or equal to the threshold value. In other words, if the change in capacitance is smaller than the threshold, the control unit 5 determines that it cannot detect the correct water level in the water storage container 19 due to the water-retained scale, and increases the airflow of the blower 3 to dry the water-retained scale. However, if the airflow of the blower 3 is originally set to high airflow (A2), the airflow of the blower 3 is not changed. Here, "A2" may be the maximum airflow that can be set. Also, "A2" may be more than half of the maximum airflow that can be set.

[0081] The control unit 5 may turn on or flash a light (not shown) provided on the operation unit 6 when the change in capacitance per unit time is less than a threshold. Turning on or flashing the light (not shown) provided on the operation unit 6 is equivalent to performing an alert. The light (not shown) provided on the operation unit 6 is equivalent to an alert unit. By performing an alert, the user performs the scale removal work in the water storage container 19.

[0082] In the above explanation, the control unit 5 estimates the amount of humidification based on the ambient temperature. The control unit 5 may also estimate the amount of humidification based on the humidity of the space in which the air conditioner 1 is installed (hereinafter referred to as "ambient humidity"). In this case, the ambient humidity is measured by a humidity sensor, and the control unit 5 uses the relationship that the amount of humidification increases as the ambient humidity decreases. The control unit 5 may also estimate the amount of humidification based on the airflow rate set for the blower 3. In this case, the control unit 5 uses the relationship that the amount of humidification increases as the airflow rate increases. Furthermore, the control unit 5 may also estimate the amount of humidification based on a combination of two or more of the ambient temperature, ambient humidity, and airflow rate.

[0083] The operation of the air conditioning system 1 with the above configuration will now be explained. Figure 21 is a flowchart showing the airflow control procedure by the air conditioning system 1. The temperature sensor detects the ambient temperature (S50). The control unit 5 estimates the amount of humidification per unit time based on the ambient temperature (S52). The control unit 5 identifies a threshold value based on the amount of humidification per unit time (S54). The control unit 5 acquires the change in capacitance per unit time (S56). If the change is greater than or equal to the threshold value (Y in S58), the control unit 5 sets the airflow of the blower 3 to A1 (S60). On the other hand, if the capacitance is not greater than or equal to the threshold value (N in S58), the control unit 5 sets the airflow of the blower 3 to A2 (S62).

[0084] According to this embodiment, if the change in capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 is small relative to the amount of humidification, the airflow of the blower 3 is increased, allowing the moisture contained in the scale to dry quickly. Also, if the change in capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 is small relative to the amount of humidification, the blower 3 is operated at a high airflow setting, allowing the moisture contained in the scale to dry quickly. Furthermore, if the change in capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor 40 is small relative to the amount of humidification, an alert is issued, allowing the user to be notified of the presence of scale.

[0085] (Embodiment 4) Next, Embodiment 4 will be described. Embodiment 4 relates to an air conditioning system 1 similar to the previous ones. The previous air conditioning system 1 includes an air passage 11 that blows air drawn in from an air intake 7 through a filter 27 to an air outlet 8. The air that passes through the air passage 11 and is blown out from the air outlet 8 is humidified. The air conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 4 includes, in addition to such an air passage 11, an air passage that does not go through the filter 27, and unhumidified air is blown out from the air outlet 8 by passing through this air passage. Here, the differences from the previous ones will be explained in detail.

[0086] The air passage 11 shown in Figure 3 blows air drawn in from the intake port 7 through the filter 27 to the outlet port 8. Such an air passage 11 is defined as a "humidifying air passage." The air conditioning unit 1 also includes a non-humidifying air passage (not shown) that blows air drawn in from the intake port 7 to the outlet port 8 without passing through the filter 27. A damper (not shown) is provided between the intake port 7 and the filter 27, and the ratio of air passing through the humidifying air passage to air passing through the non-humidifying air passage is adjusted according to the angle of the damper. A shutter may be provided instead of a damper.

[0087] The damper is connected to the control unit 5, which controls the angle of the damper. For example, when the motor unit 12 is operated by the aforementioned airflow rate "A2", the control unit 5 controls the angle of the damper so that it passes through the humidified air passage and not the non-humidified air passage. In other situations, the control unit 5 controls the angle of the damper so that, for example, the lower the ambient humidity, the greater the proportion of air passing through the humidified air passage.

[0088] According to this embodiment, the system is equipped with a humidified air passage and a non-humidified air passage, and these can be switched between, allowing for easy adjustment of the amount of moisture in the air. Furthermore, when drying scale that has retained moisture, the amount of air passing through the humidified air passage can be increased, thereby accelerating the drying of the scale.

[0089] An overview of one aspect of this disclosure is as follows: (Item 1) A main body case (2) having an air intake (7) and an air outlet (8), A water storage container (19) is provided in a cavity (10) that is partially enclosed by an isolation wall (39) within the main body case (2) and stores water. A blower (3) that takes in air from the air intake (7), adds water from the water storage container (19) to the air and blows it out to the air outlet (8), An electrostatic sensor (40) is provided on the aforementioned isolation wall (39) to detect capacitance, The system includes a control unit (5) that stores the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor (40), The cavity (10) extends horizontally inward from one side of the main body case (2), The electrostatic sensor (40) is provided so as to face the water inside the water storage container (19) via the side surface of the water storage container (19) from the isolation wall (39), The control unit (5) detects the predetermined water level in the water storage container (19) based on the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor (40), At least a portion of the air blown by the blower (3) is in contact with the side surface of the water storage container (19) by the air conditioning device (1).

[0090] (Item 2) The electrostatic sensor (40) is provided on the outer surface of the isolation wall (39) in the air conditioning device (1) according to claim 1.

[0091] (Item 3) The water storage container (19) has a lower bottom (62) and an upper opening (60), The water storage container (19) has a boundary position (66) at the height between the bottom (62) and the opening (60), The air conditioning device (1) according to item 1, wherein the change in capacitance in response to a change in water level in the portion below the boundary position (66) is steeper than the change in capacitance in response to a change in water level in the portion above the boundary position (66).

[0092] (Item 4) The control unit (5) is the air conditioning device (1) described in item 1, which operates the blower (3) at an airflow rate of half or more of the settable maximum airflow rate when the detected capacitance is lower than a threshold.

[0093] (Item 5) The control unit (5) increases the airflow rate of the blower (3) when the detected predetermined water level is lower than the threshold value, more so than when the detected capacitance is above the threshold value, according to item 1 of the air conditioning device (1).

[0094] (Item 6) The system further includes a storage unit (50) that stores a table of threshold values ​​for the change in capacitance with respect to the amount of humidification by the air conditioning device (1), The control unit (5) estimates the amount of humidification by the air conditioning device (1), and obtains a threshold value by referring to the table based on the estimated amount of humidification. The air conditioning system according to item 1, wherein the control unit (5) acquires a change in capacitance, and when the acquired change in capacitance is smaller than the threshold, operates the blower (3) at an airflow rate of half or more of the maximum settable airflow rate.

[0095] (Item 7) The system further includes a storage unit (50) that stores a table of threshold values ​​for the change in capacitance with respect to the amount of humidification by the air conditioning device (1), The control unit (5) estimates the amount of humidification by the air conditioning device (1), and obtains a threshold value by referring to the table based on the estimated amount of humidification. The air conditioning system according to item 1, wherein the control unit (5) acquires a change in capacitance and increases the airflow rate of the blower (3) when the acquired change in capacitance is smaller than the threshold.

[0096] (Item 8) The air conditioning system (1) according to item 6 or 7, further comprising a notification unit in the control unit (5) that performs notification when the change in capacitance is smaller than the threshold.

[0097] (Item 9) The system includes a filter (27) positioned such that its lower end is immersed in the water in the water storage container (19), When the air passage that blows air drawn in from the intake port (7) to the outlet port (8) via the filter (27) is defined as a humidifying air passage, the air passage that blows air drawn in from the intake port (7) to the outlet port (8) without passing through the filter (27) is defined as a non-humidifying air passage, The system further includes a damper that adjusts the ratio of air passing through the humidified air passage to air passing through the non-humidified air passage. The air conditioning device according to item 4 or 5, wherein the control unit (5) controls the damper so that it passes through the humidifying air passage and not through the non-humidifying air passage when the detected capacitance is lower than a threshold.

[0098] (Item 10) The system includes a filter (27) positioned such that its lower end is immersed in the water in the water storage container (19), When the air passage that blows air drawn in from the intake port (7) to the outlet port (8) via the filter (27) is defined as a humidifying air passage, the air passage that blows air drawn in from the intake port (7) to the outlet port (8) without passing through the filter (27) is defined as a non-humidifying air passage, The system further includes a damper that adjusts the ratio of air passing through the humidified air passage to air passing through the non-humidified air passage. The air conditioning device according to item 6 or 7, wherein the control unit (5) controls the damper to pass through the humidifying air passage instead of the non-humidifying air passage when the acquired change in capacitance is smaller than a threshold.

[0099] The present disclosure has been described above based on embodiments. These embodiments are illustrative, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible for each component or combination of processing processes, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0100] This disclosure is expected to be used as an air conditioning system for homes, offices, and other applications. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0101] 1 Air conditioning unit, 2 Main case, 3 Blower, 4 Air conditioning section, 5 Control unit, 6 Operating section, 7 Air intake, 8 Air outlet, 9 Panel, 10 Cavity, 11 Air passage, 12 Motor section, 13 Fan section, 14 Casing section, 15 Rotating shaft, 16 Discharge port, 19 Water storage container, 20 Tank component, 21 Gas-liquid contact section, 23 Tank holding section, 24 Tank, 24a Opening, 25 Lid, 25a Cylindrical section, 25b Hole, 26 Valve section, 27 Filter, 28 Filter frame, 29 Drive unit, 30 Bearing section, 39 Isolation wall, 40 Electrostatic sensor, 41 Distance regulating section, 42 Front side regulating section, 42a 42b Front water storage restriction section, 43 Front isolation restriction section, 43a Rear water storage restriction section, 43b Rear isolation restriction section, 44 Temporary fixing section.

Claims

1. A main body case having an air intake and an air outlet, A water storage container is provided in a cavity within the main body case, partially enclosed by a partition wall, for storing water. A blower that takes in air from the air intake port, adds water from the water storage container to the air outlet, and blows the air out to the outlet. An electrostatic sensor is provided in the aforementioned isolation wall to detect capacitance, The system includes a control unit that stores the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor, The aforementioned cavity extends horizontally inward from one side of the main body case, The electrostatic sensor is provided so as to face the water inside the water storage container via the side surface of the water storage container from the isolation wall, The control unit detects a predetermined water level in the water storage container based on the capacitance detected by the electrostatic sensor. An air conditioning device in which at least a portion of the air blown by the blower comes into contact with the side surface of the water storage container.

2. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the electrostatic sensor is provided on the outer surface of the isolation wall.

3. The water storage container has a lower bottom and an upper opening. The water storage container has a boundary position at the height between the bottom and the opening. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the change in capacitance in response to a change in water level in the portion below the boundary position is steeper than the change in capacitance in response to a change in water level in the portion above the boundary position.

4. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit operates the blower at an airflow rate of half or more of the settable maximum airflow rate when the detected capacitance is lower than a threshold.

5. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit increases the airflow rate of the blower when the detected capacitance is lower than a threshold, more so than when the detected capacitance is above a threshold.

6. The system further includes a storage unit that stores a table of threshold values ​​for the change in capacitance with respect to the amount of humidification by the air conditioning device. The control unit estimates the amount of humidification by the air conditioning device, and obtains a threshold value by referring to the table based on the estimated amount of humidification. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires a change in capacitance, and when the acquired change in capacitance is smaller than the threshold, the blower is operated at an airflow rate of half or more of the maximum settable airflow rate.

7. The system further includes a storage unit that stores a table of threshold values ​​for the change in capacitance with respect to the amount of humidification by the air conditioning device. The control unit estimates the amount of humidification by the air conditioning device, and obtains a threshold value by referring to the table based on the estimated amount of humidification. The air conditioning device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires a change in capacitance and increases the airflow rate of the blower when the acquired change in capacitance is less than the threshold value, rather than when the acquired change in capacitance is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

8. The air conditioning device according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising a notification unit in the control unit that performs notification when the change in capacitance is smaller than the threshold.

9. The system includes a filter positioned so that its lower end is immersed in the water in the water storage container, When the airflow path that blows air drawn in from the intake port to the outlet via the filter is defined as a humidifying airflow path, the airflow path that blows air drawn in from the intake port to the outlet without passing through the filter is defined as a non-humidifying airflow path, The system further includes a damper that adjusts the ratio of air passing through the humidified air passage to air passing through the non-humidified air passage. The air conditioning device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the control unit controls the damper so that it does not pass through the non-humidifying air passage but passes through the humidifying air passage when the detected capacitance is lower than a threshold.

10. The system includes a filter positioned so that its lower end is immersed in the water in the water storage container, When the airflow path that blows air drawn in from the intake port to the outlet via the filter is defined as a humidifying airflow path, the airflow path that blows air drawn in from the intake port to the outlet without passing through the filter is defined as a non-humidifying airflow path, The system further includes a damper that adjusts the ratio of air passing through the humidified air passage to air passing through the non-humidified air passage. The air conditioning device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the control unit controls the damper to pass through the humidifying air passage instead of the non-humidifying air passage when the acquired change in capacitance is smaller than a threshold.

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