humidifier

Abstract

To provide a humidifier that allows for easy cleaning of the fan and other components. [Solution] The humidifier comprises a device body 1 and a tank, the device body 1 comprises a fan 11, a fan cover 12, and a housing 10 on which the fan 11 and fan cover 12 are provided, the tank is detachable from the device body 1 and the fan cover 12 and fan 11 are detachable from the housing 10.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a humidifier for increasing the humidity of air.

Background Art

[0002] As a humidifier, a vaporizing humidifier equipped with a fan above a humidification filter is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 1). This humidifier has a water supply path separate from the air guiding path and can supply water from above.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the above document does not describe the cleaning inside the device, particularly the cleaning method when the vicinity of the fan gets dirty. An object of the present invention is to provide a humidifier that can easily clean components such as the fan.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The humidifier according to the present invention is a humidifier including a device main body and a tank. The device main body includes a fan, a fan cover, and a housing in which the fan and the fan cover are provided. The tank is detachable from the device main body, and the fan cover and the fan are detachable from the housing.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] According to the configuration of the present invention, cleaning can be easily performed by removing the fan cover and the fan.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] (a) is a perspective view of the humidifier according to the embodiment, viewed from above, and (b) is a perspective view of the humidifier viewed from below. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional perspective view of a humidifier. [Figure 3] This is a top-down perspective view of a disassembled humidifier. [Figure 4] (a) is a cross-sectional perspective view of the tank, (b) is an enlarged perspective view of the lower part of the recess with the guide member removed, and (c) is a perspective view of the guide member from the back. [Figure 5] (a) is an enlarged perspective view of the water level window of the tank, (b) is an enlarged perspective view of the water level window with the guide member removed, and (c) is a perspective view of the guide member from the back. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view from above showing the disassembled state of the humidifying filter. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view from below showing the disassembled main body of the device. [Figure 8] These are exploded perspective views of the main unit, with (a) showing a view from below and (b) showing a view from above. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of the first frame with the operation and display unit attached, with the second frame removed. (a) is a view from below, and (b) is a view from above. [Figure 10] This is a top-down perspective view of the first frame with the operation / display unit and motor removed. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view of the three mounting points of the second frame, seen from below. [Figure 12] These are perspective views of the top cover; (a) is a view from below, and (b) is a view from above. [Figure 13] (a) is a perspective view of a portion of the upper part of the first fuselage cover seen from above, (b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the outer circumference of the upper cover, and (c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the connection portion between the first and second fuselage covers. [Figure 14](a) is a perspective view of a part of the lower portion of the second body cover as seen from below, and (b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the connection portion between the second body cover and the tank. [Figure 15] (a) is a perspective view of a box-shaped member in which sensors and the like are arranged and a cover member removed from the box-shaped member as seen from above, and (b) is a perspective view of the box-shaped member and the cover member as seen from below. [Figure 16] It is a perspective view of a fan, (a) is a view as seen from below, and (b) is a view as seen from above. [Figure 17] It is a perspective view of the cross-section of a fixing member as seen from above, (a) is a cross-section at a position where an outer rib portion and an inner rib portion are present, and (b) is a cross-section at a position where a through-hole is present. [Figure 18] (a) is a perspective view of the cross-section of a fan cover as seen from above, and (b) and (c) are perspective views of two types of mounting portions of the fan cover as seen from below. [Figure 19] It is an enlarged cross-sectional view for explaining a water supply path. <000008​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​As shown in FIG. 1, the humidifier X humidifies the air sucked in from the suction port 27a and blows out the humidified air from the blowout port 22b. The humidifier X is generally, for example, cylindrical. The suction port 27a is provided on the circumferential surface, and the blowout port 22b is provided on the upper surface. As shown in FIG. 2, the humidifier X includes a device main body 1 and a tank 5, and a humidification filter 7 is detachably arranged in the internal space formed by the device main body 1 and the tank 5. The device main body 1 is located on the upper side, and the tank 5 is located on the lower side. As shown in FIG. 2, the device main body 1 includes at least a fan 11, a fan cover 12, and a motor 13 in a housing 10. Here, the device main body 1 further includes an operation and display unit 14 and a switch 15. The fan 11 is detachably fixed to the rotation shaft on the motor 13 by a fixing member 16. The tank 5 stores water for humidification, and the humidification filter 7 is placed on the bottom wall 51 in the tank 5. With these configurations, when the fan 11 is driven, the air sucked in from the suction port 27a passes through the humidification filter 7 containing the water stored in the tank 5 in the humidifier X, and the humidified air is blown out from the blowout port 22b. The suction port 27a is provided on the circumferential surface of the housing 10 of the device main body 1, and the blowout port is provided on the upper surface of the housing 10 of the device main body 1. Hereinafter, each part will be described in detail.

[0009] 2. Tank As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the tank 5 has a bottomed cylindrical shape (for example, a bottomed circular cylindrical shape) with an open top. The tank 5 has at least a bottom wall 51 and a circumferential wall 52. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the tank 5 has a positioning portion 53 for positioning the humidification filter 7, a float portion 54 for detecting the depletion of the stored water, a water level window portion 55 for visually observing the water level (water volume) of the stored water, and a concave portion 56 into which the mounting member 31 of the device main body 1 fits.

[0010] As shown in Figure 2, the positioning portion 53 protrudes upward so as to face the inner or outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical humidifying filter 7. Here, the positioning portion 53 faces the inner circumferential surface of the humidifying filter 7 and has a "C" shape when viewed from above. This prevents water from accumulating inside the tank 5, specifically on the inside of the positioning portion 53. The center of "C" coincides with or approximately coincides with the cylindrical axis of the peripheral wall 52.

[0011] As shown in Figures 4(b) and (c), the float section 54 includes a float 541 that rises and falls up and down with the water level, and a guide 542 that guides the up and down movement of the float 541. For convenience, in order to distinguish it from the water level float 551 described later, the float 541 will be referred to as the "low water float" 541 and the float 551 as the "water level float" 551. For example, a magnetic sensor is used as the water level sensor 18 on the main body 1 of the device, and the water level float 541 is equipped with a magnet 541a. As shown in Figure 2, the drought float 541 is positioned in a space 543 which is composed of a peripheral wall 52, the lower wall portion 561 of the recess 56, and a guide member 57 arranged along the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 52. As shown in Figure 4(c), the guide 542 is composed of a pair of first rib portions 571 and second rib portions 572 of the guide member 57. The first rib portions 571 are provided on both sides of the tank 5 in the circumferential direction relative to the water-draining float 541 and extend in the vertical direction. The second rib portions 572 are provided radially inward relative to the water-draining float 541 and extend in the vertical direction. The designations "first" and "second" of the first rib portion 571 and the second rib portion 572 are added for convenience to distinguish between the rib portions. As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(c), the guide member 57 is provided so as to surround the recess 56. The guide member 57 has a "U" shaped opposing portion 573 that faces the peripheral wall 52, and an extended portion 574 that extends from the periphery of the opposing portion 573 toward the peripheral wall 52. The opposing portion 573 has a vertically extended portion 573a that is positioned on both sides of the recess 56 in the circumferential direction and extends vertically, and a horizontally extended portion 573b that extends circumferentially below the recess 56 and connects the lower end of the vertically extended portion 573a. The terms "vertical" and "horizontal" in the vertically extended portion 573a and the horizontally extended portion 573b are added for convenience to distinguish between the extended portions. The extended portion 574 is provided on the periphery of the opposing portion 573, excluding the upper edge of the laterally extended portion 573b. The first rib portion 571 and the second rib portion 572 are provided on the laterally extended portion 573b of the opposing portion 573. Multiple through holes 573c are formed in the laterally extended portion 573b so that water can enter and exit the space 543 where the water-repellent float 541 is located. As shown in Figure 4(a), the guide member 57 is detachably attached to the circumferential wall 52 by engaging the engaged portion 574b of the upper end of the extended portion 574 with the engaged portion 562a of the side wall portion 562 of the recess 56, while the lower end portion of the extended portion 574, with both circumferential portions 574a of the extended portion 574a supported by the support portions (e.g., ribs) 511 of the bottom wall 51.

[0012] As shown in Figure 5, the water level window section 55 includes a water level float 551 that rises and falls up and down depending on the water level, and a guide member 58 that guides the vertical movement of the water level float 551. The guide member 58 is semi-cylindrical in shape and has a groove 581 inside that extends vertically and accommodates a water level float 551. The guide member 58 is provided with multiple recesses 582 to allow water to enter and exit the groove 581. The guide member 58 is detachably attached to the peripheral wall 52 by having multiple engaging portions 583 engage with the engaged portions 521 of the peripheral wall 52 from a first direction (for example, from above), and by having the upper end of an engaging portion 584 engage with the lower end of the engaged portion 522 of the peripheral wall 52. Furthermore, the guide member 58 is configured to bend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0013] When a silver bead cartridge (not shown) is installed in the tank 5, the tank 5 has a positioning section 513 on its bottom wall 51 for positioning the cartridge, as shown in Figure 2. The positioning section 513 is composed of multiple protrusions.

[0014] 3. Humidifying filter As shown in Figure 3, the humidifying filter 7 is cylindrical overall. This allows air to pass (intake) around the entire circumference of the humidifying filter 7, thereby increasing humidification efficiency. As shown in Figure 2, the humidifying filter 7 is positioned in the tank 5 so as to protrude above the tank 5 (upper end). In this configuration, the body cover 23 (second body cover 27) of the housing 10, which has the intake port 27a, faces the humidifying filter 7. As shown in Figures 3 and 6, the humidifying filter 7 comprises a filter body 71, an upper end member 72 attached to the upper end of the filter body 71, a lower end member 73 attached to the lower end of the filter body 71, and a plurality of intermediate members 74 attached to the middle of the filter body 71 in the direction of the cylindrical axis.

[0015] The filter body 71 is folded in an accordion-like manner and formed as a cylinder overall, and is made of, for example, nonwoven fabric. This allows for a larger surface area of ​​the nonwoven fabric to be used, resulting in a compact design with high humidification efficiency.

[0016] The upper end member 72 and the lower end member 73 are annular in shape. The upper end member 72 and the lower end member 73 have an "I" shaped cross-section perpendicular to the circumferential direction. The upper end member 72 has an inner cylindrical portion 721, an outer cylindrical portion 722, and a flat portion 723. The inner cylindrical portion 721 and the outer cylindrical portion 722 are arranged concentrically when viewed from above. The inner cylinder portion 721 faces or contacts the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical filter body 71. The outer cylinder portion 722 faces or is in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the filter body 71. The flat portion 723 faces or is in contact with the upper surface of the filter body 71. Here, the flat section 723 connects the inner cylinder section 721 and the outer cylinder section 722 at an intermediate position in the vertical direction, and the portions of the inner cylinder section 721 and the outer cylinder section 722 below the flat section 723 are fixed to the filter body 71 with adhesive or the like. The lower end member 73 has an inner cylindrical portion 731, an outer cylindrical portion 732, and a flat portion 733. The inner cylindrical portion 731 and the outer cylindrical portion 732 are arranged concentrically when viewed from above. The inner cylinder portion 731 faces or contacts the inner circumferential surface of the filter body 71. The outer cylinder portion 732 faces or is in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the filter body 71. The flat portion 733 faces or is in contact with the lower surface of the filter body 71. Here, the flat section 733 connects the inner cylinder section 731 and the outer cylinder section 732 at an intermediate position in the vertical direction, and the portions of the inner cylinder section 731 and the outer cylinder section 732 above the flat section 733 are fixed to the filter body 71 with adhesive or the like.

[0017] As shown in Figures 3 and 6, the intermediate member 74 is annular in shape, and its inner periphery is fixed to the outer surface of the filter body 71 with adhesive or the like. This prevents the filter body 71 from expanding radially.

[0018] The humidifying filter 7 is equipped with an elastic member 75 made of sponge, rubber, or the like on its upper end member 72. The elastic member 75 is plate-shaped and annular, and is positioned in the groove portion that is formed above the flat portion 723 of the upper end member 72.

[0019] 4. Main unit of the device As shown in Figure 7, the device body 1 comprises a main body 20, a fan 11 that is detachable from the main body 20 (housing 10), a fan cover 12 that is detachable from the main body 20 (housing 10), and a fixing member 16 for detachably fixing the fan 11 to the housing 10 (motor 13). As shown in Figure 2, the main unit 20 in this case is equipped with a motor 13 for rotating the fan 11, an operation / display unit 14 for operating the device (humidifier X), a switch 15 for turning the device (humidifier X) on and off, a DC jack 17 for receiving power from a DC adapter (not shown) connected to a commercial power supply, a water level sensor 18 for detecting when the water level in the tank 5 is low, a temperature and humidity sensor 19 for detecting the temperature and humidity of the room, etc., all housed in the casing 10. The DC jack 17, water level sensor 18, and temperature / humidity sensor 19 are attached to the housing 10 via the mounting member 31. The following describes each part.

[0020] (1) Enclosure As shown in Figure 8, the housing 10 comprises a frame 21, an upper cover 22, and a body cover 23. (1-1) Frame As shown in Figure 9, the frame 21 supports the motor 13, the operation / display unit 14, and the switch 15. The frame 21 is composed of one or more members, and in this case, it is composed of two members: a first frame 24 located on the upper side and a second frame 25 located on the lower side. The motor 13, etc., is installed on the first frame 24. The designations "first" and "second" in the first frame 24 and second frame 25 are added for convenience to distinguish between the frames. The first frame 24 is annular in shape, with the motor 13 and operation / display unit 14 located on its central side, and the switch 15 located on its outer circumference.

[0021] As shown in Figure 9, the first frame 24 integrally comprises a bottomed cylindrical portion 241 on the central side, an annular portion 242 on the outer circumference, and a connecting portion 243 that connects the bottomed cylindrical portion 241 and the annular portion 242.

[0022] The bottomed cylindrical section 241 houses the motor 13 such that the rotating shaft 131 protrudes downward from the through hole 241b in the bottom section 241a (see Figure 9(a)), and houses the operation / display unit 14 above it. As shown in Figure 10, the bottomed cylindrical portion 241 has a fixing portion 241c for fixing the motor 13. The motor 13 is fixed using, for example, screws 139, and the fixing portion 241c has a screw hole in its boss into which the screw 139 is screwed. Note that there are multiple fixing portions 241c, corresponding to the number of screws 139. The bottomed cylindrical portion 241 has a support portion 241d for supporting the operation / display unit 14 and a fixing portion 241e for fixing the operation / display unit 14 supported by the support portion 241d. The support portion 241d is composed of the tip of a rib that extends upward in a "+" shape, and the tip of the rib contacts the lower surface of the substrate 141 to support the substrate 141. A protruding portion 241f is formed at the tip of the support portion 241d, and this protruding portion 241f fits into the through hole 141a of the substrate 141 of the operation / display unit 14, thereby positioning the substrate 141. Thus, the rib (241d) having the convex portion 241f functions as a positioning support portion that supports the operation / display unit 14 in a positioned state. The operation / display unit 14 (circuit board 141) is fixed in place, for example, using screws 149. The fixing part 241e has a screw hole in its boss into which the screw 149 is threaded. Multiple fixing parts 241e are provided, corresponding to the number of screws 149. The bottomed cylindrical portion 241 is provided with a through hole 241g corresponding to the connecting portion 243 for drawing the wiring 159 and 189 into the interior from the connecting portion 243.

[0023] As shown in Figure 10, the annular portion 242 is annular in shape. The annular portion 242 has a cross-section perpendicular to its circumferential direction that is L-shaped, U-shaped with an open top, V-shaped, a combination of these shapes, or a similar shape, and has a groove portion 242f extending in the circumferential direction formed inside. The annular portion 242 has an inner cylinder portion 245, an outer cylinder portion 246, and a connecting portion 247 that connects the inner cylinder portion 245 and the outer cylinder portion 246. The connecting portion 247 connects the middle of the inner cylinder portion 245 in the direction of the cylinder axis to the lower end of the outer cylinder portion 246. In other words, the annular portion 242 is a "U" shaped portion that is open at the top and has an inner circumferential wall that protrudes downward.

[0024] As shown in Figure 10, the annular portion 242 includes a support portion 242a that supports the substrate 152 on which the switch elements 151 constituting the switch 15 are mounted, a positioning portion 242b that positions the substrate 152, and a fixing portion 242c that fixes the substrate 152 supported by the support portion 242a. The support portion 242a is composed of ribs that extend upward. The positioning portion 242b is composed of a convex portion that protrudes further upward from the upper end of the support portion 242a, and the convex portion fits into the through hole 152a of the substrate 152. There are two support portions 242a spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and there are also two positioning portions 242b. The substrate 152 is fixed using, for example, an engagement structure. The fixing portion 242c is composed of an engaging piece that extends upward, and the engaging piece fits into the engaged portion (recess) 152b of the substrate 152 and engages with the upper surface of the substrate 152. The annular portion 242 has multiple through holes 242d spaced circumferentially for screws 392 (see Figure 8) used to connect the first frame 24 and the second frame 25. The annular portion 242 has a through hole 242e (see Figure 9(a)) for inserting wiring 189 that connects to the DC jack 17, water level sensor 18, and temperature / humidity sensor 19.

[0025] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the connecting portion 243 extends radially from the annular portion 242 and the bottomed cylindrical portion 241. In a cross section perpendicular to the extension direction, the connecting portion 243 has a groove portion 243a that extends radially and has an open top, a V-shape, a U-shape, a U-shape, a combination thereof, or a similar shape. Multiple connecting portions 243 are spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The groove portion 243a of the connecting portion 243 closest to the switch 15 and sensors 18,19 is a groove where the wiring 159 for the switch 15 and the wiring 189 for sensors 18,19 etc. are arranged, and communicates with the groove portion 242f of the annular portion 242. In other words, the annular portion 242 has a recessed portion 242g for the wiring 159,189 at the connection point with the connecting portion 243. As shown in Figure 10, the connecting portion 243 has a fixing portion 249 for fixing the operation / display unit 14 (cover body 144). The cover body 144 is fixed using, for example, screws 148, and the fixing portion 249 has a screw hole in its boss into which the screws 148 are screwed.

[0026] As shown in Figure 9, the second frame 25 has at least a cylindrical portion (in this case, a cylindrical shape) 251, an upper fixing portion 252 for fixing the first frame 24, and a lower fixing portion 253 for fixing the body cover 23 (specifically, the second body cover 27). The terms "upper" and "lower" in the upper fixing portion 252 and lower fixing portion 253 are added for convenience to make it easier to distinguish between the fixing portions. The second frame 25 has a positioning and fixing portion 254 for fixing the mounting member 31 in a positioned state. The second frame 25 has a mounting portion 258 for detachably attaching the fan cover 12.

[0027] As shown in Figure 13, the cylindrical portion 251 is provided substantially flush with the inner cylindrical portion 245 of the annular portion 242 of the first frame 24. As shown in Figures 9 and 13, the cylindrical portion 251 has a stepped portion 251a at its upper end that fits onto the outside of the inner cylindrical portion 245.

[0028] As shown in Figure 8, the first frame 24 and the second frame 25 are secured together using screws 392. The screws 392 pass through the through hole 242d (see Figure 9) in the first frame 24 and are screwed into the screw hole 224a in the upper cover 22. In this way, the first frame 24 is fastened together with the upper cover 22. As shown in Figure 9, the upper fixing portion 252 has a through hole 252a through which the body of the screw 392 passes. Here, the through hole 252a is provided in the upper wall portion 255a of the rib portion 255. The rib portion 255 has a pair of side wall portions 255b and an upper wall portion 255a that extend along the cylindrical axis, and when viewed from the radially outward, it has an inverted "V" shape. The rib portion 255 is close to or in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the fuselage cover 23. This prevents the fuselage cover 23 from becoming thinner or cracking.

[0029] As shown in Figure 8, the second frame 25 and the second body cover 27 are secured using screws 393. As shown in Figure 9, the lower fixing portion 253 has a through hole 253a through which the body of the screw 393 passes. Here, the through hole 253a is provided in the boss portion 256c that extends downward from the lower wall portion 256a of the rib portion 256. The rib portion 256 has a pair of side wall portions 256b and a lower wall portion 256a that extend along the cylindrical axis, and when viewed from the radially outward direction, it has a "V" shape. Furthermore, the cylindrical portion 251 has a rib portion 251b that circumferentially connects the lower end of the upper rib portion 255 and the upper end of the lower rib portion 256. This increases the radial rigidity of the cylindrical portion 251. The rib portion 256 is close to or in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the fuselage cover 23 (second fuselage cover 27). This prevents the fuselage cover 23 from becoming thinner or cracking.

[0030] As shown in Figure 8, the second frame 25 and the mounting member 31 are fixed together using screws 394. As shown in Figure 9, the positioning and fixing portion 254 has a through hole 254a through which the body of the screw 319 passes, and a fitting portion 254b that fits into the fitting portion (fitting hole 322a, see Figure 15) of the positioning and fixing portion of the mounting member 31. Here, the through hole 254a and the fitting portion 254b are provided in the lower wall portion 257a of the rib portion 257. The rib portion 257 has a pair of side wall portions 257b and a lower wall portion 257a that extend downward from the rib portion 251b formed along the circumferential direction, and when viewed from the radially outward, it has a "U" shape with the top open. The lower wall portion 257a is substantially flush with the lower end of the cylindrical portion 251. Furthermore, the lower wall portion 257a has a notch 254c for wiring 189.

[0031] The frame 21 has a mounting portion 258 on the cylindrical portion 251 of the second frame 25 for detachably attaching the fan cover 12, with the upper end of the fan cover 12 fitted into the fitting portion 259 of the second frame 25. As shown in the enlarged view of Figure 2, the fitting portion 259 is composed of an extended portion 251c that extends from the lower inner circumferential wall of the cylindrical portion 251 toward the cylindrical axis and then extends downward, and a fitting groove 251d is formed between the extended portion 251c and the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 251 into which the upper end portion 122a of the fan cover 12 fits.

[0032] The mounting portion 258 is attached by engaging with the upper end of the fan cover 12. As shown in Figure 11, there are three mounting portions 258, and for convenience, they are designated as "258A", "258B", and "258C", and when there is no need to distinguish between them, they are designated as "258". As shown in Figures 7 and 18(b) and (c), the upper end of the fan cover 12 has a protruding portion 123a that projects radially outward and extends circumferentially. As shown in Figure 11, the mounting portion 258 consists of a recessed portion 258a for receiving the protruding portion 123a of the fan cover 12, and a grooved portion 258b into which the protruding portion 123a engages when the received fan cover 12 slides in a predetermined direction. Here, the protruding portion 123a is received by the recessed portion 258a by moving upward, and then engages with the grooved portion 258b by rotating (sliding) in the circumferential direction. The recessed portion 258a is recessed radially outward and extends vertically. The grooved portion 258b is formed in the cylindrical portion 251 and consists of a through groove that extends circumferentially. The second frame 25 has a retaining portion 258d on at least one of its mounting portions 258B, among the multiple mounting portions 258A, 258B, and 258C, which prevents the mounted fan cover 12 from coming off. As shown in Figure 11(b), the retaining portion 258d is provided on the mounting portion 258B and is formed on the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 251 and consists of a convex portion that protrudes toward the cylindrical axis. This convex portion fits into the groove portion 123c that constitutes the retaining portion of the fan cover 12 shown in Figure 18(c).

[0033] (1-2) Top cover As shown in Figure 12, the upper cover 22 has an opening 22a in the center and an opening 22b on the outer periphery of opening 22a. The outer periphery opening 22b is a blow-out outlet and a water inlet for supplying water to the tank 5. The blow-out outlet and water inlet are also denoted as "22b". The upper cover 22 has an inner annular portion 221 that forms an opening 22a, an outer annular portion 222 located on the outermost periphery, one or more intermediate annular portions 227 located between the inner annular portion 221 and the outer annular portion 222 and forming an opening 22b, and a connecting portion 223 that connects the inner annular portion 221, the outer annular portion 222, and the intermediate annular portion 227. The operation / display unit 14 is located in the central part (opening 22a) inside the inner annular portion 221 of the upper cover (top surface of the housing 10) 22, the switch 15 is located on the outer peripheral edge side of the outer annular portion 222 of the upper cover (top surface of the housing 10) 22, and the air outlet 22b is located between the outer peripheral edge and the central part.

[0034] The inner annular section 221, the outer annular section 222, and the middle annular section 227 are circular in shape and are connected concentrically by connecting sections 223. The inner annular portion 221 has a cross-section perpendicular to the circumferential direction that is rectangular, elliptical, circular, a combination of these, or a similar shape, and in this case, it is rectangular. This reduces the gap with the operation / display unit 14 and enhances the design. The upper cover 22 has an engaging portion 225 that engages with a recessed portion (engaged portion) 241j of a protruding portion 241h that extends radially outward from the upper end of the bottomed cylindrical portion 241 of the first frame 24 shown in Figure 10 when the upper cover 22 is attached to the frame 21. This makes it difficult for the upper cover 22 to come off the frame 21.

[0035] The outer annular portion 222 has a cross-section perpendicular to the circumferential direction that is an inverted "L" shape, square, rectangular, elliptical, circular, a combination thereof, or a similar shape. In this case, it is an inverted "L" shape, having a cylindrical portion 222a and a flat portion 222b extending radially outward from the upper end of the cylindrical portion 222a. The outer annular portion 222 has a through hole 222c for the switch 15 in the flat portion 222b. The upper cover 22 has a fixing portion 224 on its outer annular portion 222 that secures the upper cover 22 to the second frame 25 together with the first frame 24. Screws 392 are used for fixing, as shown in Figure 8. The fixing portion 224 is composed of a screw hole 224a formed in the boss portion 222e of the rib portion 222d which spans the cylindrical portion 222a and the flat portion 222b. The fixing portions 224 are provided in correspondence with the upper fixing portion 252 of the second frame 25, and there are multiple (for example, four) of them spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The fixing portions 224 on both sides of the switch 15 are directly fixed to the first frame 24 by screws 397 (see Figure 9(a)).

[0036] As shown in Figure 12, there are multiple connecting sections 223 spaced apart in the circumferential direction. Here, there are multiple connecting sections 223, located above the connecting section 243 of the first frame 24 and between adjacent connecting sections 243 in the circumferential direction (in this case, in the middle). The connecting sections 223 extend along the radial direction.

[0037] The upper cover 22 has a lid portion 226 that closes the upper opening of the connecting portion 243 of the first frame 24 when it is attached to the frame 21. The lid portion 226 is formed on the lower side of the connecting portion 223, which is located above the connecting portion 243 of the first frame 24. The lid portion 226 extends from the inner annular portion 221 toward the outer annular portion 222. The direction of extension is radial. The cross-sectional shape of the lid portion 226 perpendicular to the direction of extension is a "U" shape with the lower side open, an inverted "U" shape, an inverted "V" shape, a plate shape, a shape that combines these, or a shape similar to these. In this case, it is "U" shaped. The lid portion 226 is configured to cover the upper outer side of the connecting portion 243 of the first frame 24. This prevents water from entering the connecting portion 243 of the first frame 24 when water is supplied from the water inlet 22b.

[0038] (1-3) Body cover The body cover 23 is located on the outer circumference side of the inner cylindrical portion 245 and the cylindrical portion 251 of the frame 21, and constitutes the outer wall of the device body 1. The inner cylindrical portion 245 and the cylindrical portion 251 of the frame 21 constitute the inner wall of the device body 1. As shown in Figure 8, the fuselage cover 23 comprises a first fuselage cover 26 and a second fuselage cover 27. The first fuselage cover 26 and the second fuselage cover 27 are cylindrical in shape. The first fuselage cover 26 is located on the upper side, and the second fuselage cover 27 is located on the lower side. The designations "first" and "second" in the first fuselage cover 26 and the second fuselage cover 27 are added for convenience to distinguish between the fuselage covers.

[0039] As shown in Figure 2, the first body cover 26 is attached so as to cover the outer circumference of the frame 21. The upper end of the first body cover 26 abuts against the lower surface of the flat portion 222b of the outer annular portion 222 of the upper cover 22, as shown in Figure 13(b). In this case, the upper end fits into the stepped portion 222f of the flat portion 222b. As shown in Figure 13(c), the lower end of the first shell cover 26 abuts against the upper end of the second shell cover 27. Here, the stepped portion 261 at the lower end of the first shell cover 26 fits into the stepped portion 277 at the upper end of the second shell cover 27. In this case, the stepped portions 261 and 277 are downward sloping on the inner circumference side. As shown in Figure 13(a), the inner circumferential surface of the upper end of the first shell cover 26 has a first rib portion 262 extending in the circumferential direction and a second rib portion 263 formed in or near the center of the first rib portion 262 in the circumferential direction and extending in the vertical direction. This reinforces the first shell cover 26. The designations "first" and "second" of the first rib portion 262 and the second rib portion 263 are used for convenience to distinguish between the rib portions. As shown in Figure 13(b), the lower end of the second rib portion 263 is provided with a recess 264 into which the upper end of the outer cylindrical portion 246 of the first frame 24 fits. This positions the first body cover 26 radially and vertically relative to the frame 21. Multiple first rib portions 262 and second rib portions 263 are formed at intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0040] As shown in Figure 7, the second body cover 27 is fixed to the second frame 25 using screws 393, covering the outer circumference of the frame 21. The second body cover 27 is fixed to the frame 21 with the first body cover 26 sandwiched between it and the upper cover 22. The second body cover 27 has a cylindrical portion 270 with a plurality of through holes 27a, which function as air intakes for drawing air into the interior. The designation "27a" is used to indicate an air intake. As described above, the upper end of the second body cover 27 abuts against the lower end of the first body cover 26, as shown in Figure 13(c). As shown in Figure 14, the lower end of the second body cover 27 has a first rib portion 271 extending circumferentially from the inner circumferential surface, and a second rib portion 272 extending downward from the center or vicinity of the radial circumference of the first rib portion 271. The terms "first" and "second" in the first rib portion 271 and the second rib portion 272 are used for convenience to distinguish between the rib portions. The second fuselage cover 27 has a fixing portion 273 for fixing the second fuselage cover 27 to the frame 21. As described above, screws 393 are used for fixing, and the fixing portion 273 is made up of a through hole 273a formed in the first rib portion 271. In the area where the through hole 273a is formed, the second rib portion 272 is not formed, or a notched portion 272a is formed in the second rib portion 272. The second shell cover 27 has an outer rib portion 274 extending vertically on the outer circumferential surface of the second rib portion 272. This reinforces the second shell cover 27 and the second rib portion 272. The outer rib portion 274 also guides the upper end of the peripheral wall 52 of the tank 5 to abut against or be close to the first rib portion 271. The second shell cover 27 has an inner rib portion 275 extending vertically on the inner circumferential surface of the second rib portion 272. This allows for reinforcement of the second shell cover 27 and the second rib portion 272. As shown in Figure 14(a), the first rib portion 271 and the second rib portion 272 are not formed in the mounting portion 278 to which the mounting member 31 is attached. Through holes 276 are formed in the first rib portions 271 on both sides in the circumferential direction relative to the mounting portion 278, through which screws 395 (see Figure 7) for fixing the mounting member 31 are inserted.

[0041] (2) Operation and display unit As shown in Figure 10, the operation and display unit 14 is provided on a substrate 141 with an operation means 143 and a display means 142, and includes a cover body 144 that covers the operation means 143 and the display means 142. The operating means 143 accepts user input. The display means 142 displays information related to humidification, user input, user operation guide information, etc. The cover body 144 is a lidded cylindrical shape having a lid portion 144a, a cylindrical portion 144b, and a flange portion 144c. The lid portion 144a is configured to transmit user operations to the operating means 143 (it is elastically deformable in the thickness direction) and to allow the display contents of the display means 142 to be visible. The cylindrical portion 144b is fitted into the opening 22a (see Figure 12) of the upper cover 22 with the lid portion 144a exposed. When fitted with the upper cover 22, the flange portion 144c abuts against the lower surface of the inner annular portion 221 of the upper cover 22. A packing (not shown) is placed between the flange portion 144c and the upper cover 22 to enhance the sealing performance. The cover body 144 has a fixed portion 144d for fixing to the first frame 24 of the frame 21. The cover body 144 is fixed by screws 148, and the fixed portion 144d is formed by a through hole formed in the protruding portion 144d provided on the flange portion 144c.

[0042] The substrate 141 has an operating means 143 that receives pressing operations on the cover body 144 via an elastic spring 146. The operating means 143 here utilizes an electrostatic panel formed on the substrate 141. In other words, the operating unit is an electrostatic touch panel. The display means 142 includes a plurality of LEDs 142A for display (see Figure 23(b)) and an LED cover 142B that covers the entire plurality of LEDs 142A and has through holes 142Ba in the parts corresponding to the LEDs 142A. Light emitted from the LEDs 142A passes through (is transmitted through) the through holes 142Ba of the LED cover 142B and the lid portion 144a of the cover body 144. The 14 LEDs 142A constitute two 7-segment displays and are mounted on the substrate 141 in the shape of two "8"s. The LED cover 142B is attached (mounted) to the substrate 141 by the locking portion of the LED cover 142B locking into the locking holes of the substrate 141. The circuit board 141 is equipped with operating means 143, display means 142, and electronic components such as a control circuit for controlling the device and a power supply circuit that generates power to supply power to the display means 142 and drive units such as the motor 13. The circuit board 141 mounts sockets 145a, 145b, and 145c for connecting to connectors for the wiring 159 that connects to the switch 15, the sensors 18 and 19, the wiring 189 that connects to the DC jack 17, and the wiring 133 that connects to the motor 13.

[0043] (3) Switch As shown in Figure 10, the switch 15 includes a switch element 151, a circuit board 152, a switch cover 153, and an operating tool 154 for receiving user input. The switch 15 (operating device 154) is located on the outer peripheral edge of the upper surface of the housing 10, in this case on the outer annular portion 222 of the upper cover 22 (see Figure 8(b)). This ensures that, for example, when supplying water to the tank 5, even when supplying water from the upper center of the housing 10, water is less likely to come into contact with the switch 15, thus preventing malfunctions. The operating tool 154 has a fitting portion 154a that fits into the through hole 222c of the outer annular portion 222 of the upper cover 22 (see Figure 2), an overhanging portion 154b that protrudes from the lower end of the fitting portion 154a and cannot pass through the through hole 222c, and an extension portion 154c that extends downward from the lower surface of the overhanging portion 154b. The fitting portion 154a and the overhanging portion 154b are arranged in the space between the upper wall 153a of the switch cover 153 and the outer annular portion 222 of the upper cover 22, with the fitting portion 154a exposed (fitted) into the through hole 222c. This supports the operating tool 154 so that it can move up and down but cannot be pulled out upward from the through hole 222c. The protruding portion 154b fits into the recess 153b of the switch cover 153, and the extended portion 154c passes through the through hole 153c formed in the bottom of the recess 153b and contacts the switch element 151. The switch 15 is positioned such that the upper surface of the operating tool 154 does not protrude from the flat portion 222b that makes up the upper surface of the upper cover 22. This prevents the device from reacting when, for example, the main body 1 is placed upside down (so that the upper cover 22 is in contact with the floor, etc.), thereby preventing malfunctions.

[0044] (4) Mounting member As shown in Figure 7, the mounting member 31 is attached to the housing 10 so as to extend downward from the housing 10. As shown in Figures 8 and 15, the mounting member 31 comprises a vertically elongated, thin box-shaped member 32 and a cover member 33 that covers the lower side of the box-shaped member 32. The upper side of the box-shaped member 32 is covered by the body cover 23 (second body cover 27). The mounting member 31 is designed to match the cylindrical body cover 23, and when viewed from above, it has an overall arc shape.

[0045] (4-1) Box-shaped member As shown in Figure 15(a), the box-shaped member 32 has a bottom wall portion 321 perpendicular to the radial direction of the housing 10, upper and lower wall portions 322 and 323, and side wall portions 324 on both sides in the circumferential direction of the housing 10. The box-shaped member 32 is installed so that its opening faces outward in the radial direction of the housing 10. The box-shaped member 32 has fixing parts 325 and 326 for fixing the mounting member 31 to the housing 10. The box-shaped member 32 also has a support part 327 for supporting the temperature and humidity sensor 19. For convenience, the support part 327 will be referred to as the temperature and humidity sensor support part 327 to distinguish it from the support parts 312 and 313 described later. The box-shaped member 32 has a temporary fixing section for temporarily fixing the wiring 189A that connects to the DC jack 17, the wiring 189B that connects to the water level sensor 18, and the wiring 189C that connects to the temperature and humidity sensor 19. The temporary fixing section is, for example, made up of a grooved rib portion 321g formed on the bottom wall portion 321.

[0046] The bottom wall portion 321 has a vertically elongated rectangular shape when viewed from the radial direction of the housing 10. The upper wall portion 322, the lower wall portion 323, and the side wall portion 324 are provided so as to be erected from the periphery of the bottom wall portion 321.

[0047] For convenience, in order to distinguish between the fixing parts 325 and 326, fixing part 325 will be referred to as the first fixing part 325 and fixing part 326 as the second fixing part 326. The first fixing part 325 is fixed to the frame 21 (second frame 25), and the second fixing part 326 is fixed to the body cover 23 (second body cover 27). The first fixing portion 325 is provided on the upper wall portion 322. As shown in Figure 8, screws 394 are used for fixing, and the first fixing portion 325 is made up of screw holes into which the screws 394 are screwed. The upper wall portion 322 has a fitting hole 322a into which the protruding fitting portion 254b of the frame 21 (see Figure 9(a)) fits, and a notch 322b for wiring 189. The fitting hole 322a constitutes the fitting portion of the positioning and fixing portion that is positioned and fixed by the positioning and fixing portion 254 of the second frame 25. The second fixing portion 326 is provided in the middle of the side wall portion 324 in the vertical direction. As shown in Figure 8(a), a screw 395 is used for fixing, and the second fixing portion 326 is formed by the screw hole 324c of the protruding portion 324b provided on the side wall portion 324. When fixing, the lower surface of the protruding portion 324b abuts against the upper surface of the first rib portion 271 of the second body cover 27, as shown in Figure 14, and the screw 395 is screwed into the first rib portion 271 from below.

[0048] As shown in Figure 15, the temperature and humidity sensor 19 comprises a sensor element 191, a substrate 192 on which the sensor element 191 is mounted, and a socket 193 for connecting to the wiring 189C. The temperature and humidity sensor support portion 327 has support portions 321a and 321b that support the substrate 192 from the bottom wall portion 321 side, and an engaging portion 321c that engages with the supported substrate 192. The support portions 321a and 321b are rib-shaped and have notches and recesses corresponding to the substrate 192.

[0049] (4-2) Cover member As shown in Figure 3, the cover member 33 covers the portion of the box-shaped member 32 that is not covered by the body cover 23. As shown in Figure 15, the cover member 33 has a top wall portion 331 perpendicular to the radial direction of the housing 10, an upper bent portion 332 that bends toward the box-shaped member 32 from the upper end of the top wall portion 331, a lower bent portion 333 that bends toward the box-shaped member 32 from the lower end of the top wall portion 331, and side bent portions 334 that bend toward the box-shaped member 32 from both ends of the top wall portion 331 in the circumferential direction of the housing 10.

[0050] The cover member 33 has a protruding ridge portion 332a that extends upward from the upper bent portion 332 along the circumferential direction. When the mounting member 31 is mounted on the housing 10, the protruding ridge portion 332a fits into the notched portion 271a of the first rib portion 271 of the second body cover 27 (see Figure 14(a)). This restricts the position of the mounting member 31 to the circumferential and radially outward side relative to the body cover 23.

[0051] The cover member 33 has fixing parts 335, 336, and 337 for fixing the cover member 33 to the box-shaped member 32. The fixing parts 335, 336, and 337 are provided in pairs at intervals in the circumferential direction of the housing 10. More specifically, they are located on both sides in the circumferential direction of the recess 331a formed in the top wall portion 331 for inserting the DC adapter into the DC jack 17. For fixing the fixing portion 335, a screw 396 is used, which is inserted through a through hole in the boss portion, which is the fixing portion 328 of the box-shaped member 32. The fixing portion 335 on the cover member 33 side is formed by a screw hole 331c formed in the boss portion 331b formed on the inner surface of the top wall portion 331. An engagement structure is used to secure the fixing portion 336. The fixing portion 336 is composed of an engaging projection that engages with the engaging recess 323a, which is the fixing portion of the box-shaped member 32. The engaging recess 323a of the box-shaped member 32 is formed in the lower wall portion 323, and the engaging projection (fixing portion 336) of the cover member 33 is formed in the lower bent portion 333. An engagement structure is used to secure the fixing portion 337. The fixing portion 337 is composed of an engaging projection that engages with the engaging recess (engaged portion) 324b, which is the fixing portion of the box-shaped member 32. The engaging recess 324d of the box-shaped member 32 is formed in the side wall portion 324, and the engaging projection (337) of the cover member 33 is formed in the engaging piece portion 331d that extends from the top wall portion 331.

[0052] When the cover member 33 is attached to the box-shaped member 32, the lower bent portion 333 of the cover member 33 covers the lower wall portion 323 of the box-shaped member 32 from below, and the side bent portion 334 of the cover member 33 fits into the stepped portion 324a on the outer surface of the side wall portion 324 of the box-shaped member 32. This improves the airtightness of the internal space formed by the box-shaped member 32 and the cover member 33.

[0053] As shown in Figure 8, the cover member 33 has a retaining portion 338 in the recessed portion 331a for holding the DC adapter cable (not shown) when the DC adapter plug (connection terminal) is inserted into the insertion hole 171 of the DC jack 17. The retaining portion 338 is composed of a pair of ribs and is configured to clamp the cable. The retaining portion 338 is located below the insertion hole 171 of the DC jack 17. As a result, when the DC adapter is connected to the DC jack 17, the DC adapter plug and cable are in a straight line, preventing disconnection between the cable and the plug.

[0054] (4-3) Others The mounting member 31 consists of a box-shaped member 32 and a cover member 33, forming a support section 312 for supporting the DC jack 17 and a support section 313 for supporting the water level sensor 18. This allows the DC jack 17 and the water level sensor 18 to be supported without the use of fixing means such as screws. For convenience, in order to distinguish between support parts 312 and 313, support part 312 will be referred to as the jack support part 312, and support part 313 as the water level sensor support part 313.

[0055] As shown in Figure 15, the jack support portion 312 has a support portion 321d that supports the DC jack 17 from the bottom wall portion 321 side, an engagement portion 321e formed on the bottom wall portion 321 that engages with the supported DC jack 17, and a support portion 331e that supports the supported DC jack 17 from the top wall portion 331 side. The support portions 321d and 331e are rib-shaped and have notches and recesses corresponding to the DC jack 17. Furthermore, the upper wall portion 331h of the recessed portion 331a of the cover member 33 has a through hole 331g for inserting the plug of the DC adapter, and is in contact with or close to the lower surface of the DC jack 17. As a result, the plug of the DC adapter is inserted upward into the insertion hole 171 of the DC jack 17 in the recessed portion 331a, which prevents or suppresses water from entering the insertion hole 171 of the DC jack 17 even if water supplied from the water inlet 22b travels down the body cover 23. Furthermore, by positioning the DC jack 17 so that the insertion hole 171 faces downward in the vertical direction, the radial dimensions of the housing 10 can be reduced compared to when the insertion hole 171 faces, for example, outward in the radial direction. Furthermore, by orienting the insertion hole 171 of the DC jack 17 downwards along the vertical direction, the DC adapter plug can be easily removed from the DC jack 17 if the DC adapter cable gets caught.

[0056] As shown in Figure 15, the water level sensor support portion 313 is positioned at the lower end of the mounting member 31. This improves the detection accuracy of the water level float 541 (magnet 541a) of the tank 5. The water level sensor support section 313 includes a support section 321f that supports the water level sensor 18 from the bottom wall section 321 side, and a support section 331f that supports the water level sensor 18 from the top wall section 331 side. The support portion 321f is composed of a tapered stepped boss portion, the tip portion of which fits into the through hole 181 of the water level sensor 18, and the stepped portion which contacts or is close to the water level sensor 18. The support portion 331f is rib-shaped and has notched or recessed portions corresponding to the water level sensor 18.

[0057] (5) Fan As shown in Figure 7, the fan 11 is configured to be detachable from the housing 10. As shown in Figure 2, the fan 11 is positioned above the fan cover 12 and below the air outlet 22b. The fan 11 is a mixed-flow fan and, as shown in Figure 16, has a disc-shaped main plate portion 111, a side plate portion 112 facing the main plate portion 111 from the radially outward direction, and a blade portion 113 formed between the main plate portion 111 and the side plate portion 112. Multiple blade portions 113 are provided at intervals in the circumferential direction. The main plate portion 111 has a shaft hole 115 in its center through which the rotating shaft 131 of the motor 13 is inserted. The main plate portion 111 has through holes 111a formed on the outer circumference of the central shaft hole 115. Multiple through holes 111a are formed at intervals in the circumferential direction. This prevents water from accumulating on the upper surface of the main plate portion 111, as water can enter the upper surface of the main plate portion 111 during water supply and flow out through the through holes 111a. The shaft hole 115 is formed in a cylindrical shaft portion 114 that extends vertically through the center of the main plate portion 111, and the upper end of the shaft portion 114 is higher than the portion in which the through hole 111a is formed. This configuration makes it difficult for water to enter the shaft hole 115. As shown in Figure 8(a), the rotating shaft 131 of the motor 13 extends in the vertical direction. When installing the fan 11, the fan 11 is moved so that the direction in which the rotating shaft 131 extends is closer to the motor 13, so that it is inserted into the rotating shaft 131 from the main plate portion 111 side of the shaft hole 115.

[0058] As shown in Figure 7, the fan 11 is detachably fixed to the motor 13 using a fixing member 16. The fixing member 16 fixes the fan 11 to the motor 13 such that the rotating shaft 131 of the motor 13 passes through the shaft portion 114 of the fan 11. As shown in Figure 17, the fixing member 16 has a bullet-shaped design that tapers towards the direction of airflow from the fan 11 (in this case, the vertical direction). In other words, the fixing member 16 has a shape in which the diameter decreases as it approaches the tip. This enhances the airflow guidance effect to the fan 11. As shown in Figure 17, the fixing member 16 has a wall portion 161 that forms a bullet shape, an inner rib portion 162 formed on the inner circumferential surface of the wall portion 161, and an outer rib portion 163 formed on the outer circumferential surface of the wall portion 161. The fixing member 16 has a shaft portion 164 that extends vertically (parallel to the rotation axis 131) from the center of the wall portion 161, and an inner rib portion 162 is formed between the shaft portion 164 and the wall portion 161. The wall portion 161 is bullet-shaped and has a through hole 161a. This prevents water from remaining inside the fixing member 16 when supplying water to the tank 5. The through hole 161a is located between the inner rib portions 162 and is provided on the tip (lower end) side. The inner rib portion 162 and the outer rib portion 163 are composed of protruding portions that run along the extension direction of the shaft portion 164. This configuration of the outer rib portion 163, which extends in the extension direction, reduces resistance to the air drawn into the fan 11 on the outer surface of the fixing member 16. In addition, it makes it easier to rotate (hold) the fixing member 16 when fixing the fan 11 with the fixing member 16. The inner rib portion 162 and the outer rib portion 163 face each other via the wall portion 161. This increases the resistance to torsion. The shaft portion 164 has a threaded portion (threaded hole) 164a into which the threaded portion of the rotating shaft 131 of the motor 13 is screwed. The fan 11 is fixed to the motor 13 by inserting the rotating shaft 131 of the motor 13 through the shaft portion 114 of the fan 11, and then screwing the threaded portion 164a of the shaft portion 164 of the fixing member 16 into the threaded portion of the rotating shaft 131. At this time, the shaft portion 114 of the fan 11 is sandwiched between the fixing member 16 and the motor 13 (more precisely, as shown in Figure 19, the packing 118 attached to the rotating shaft 131 or the E-ring 119 that fixes the packing 118 to the rotating shaft 131), so that rattling of the fan 11 is prevented and the quietness during rotation can be improved. In addition, since the diameter of the shaft portion 164 of the fixing member 16 is set to be larger than the diameter of the rotating shaft 131 of the motor 13, the fan 11 can be fixed stably.

[0059] (6) Fan cover As shown in Figure 7, the fan cover 12 is configured to be detachable from the housing 10. Here, it is detachably attached to the frame 21. An engagement structure is used for attachment. The fan cover 12 is designed to allow air to flow smoothly to the fan 11 and to improve safety. When attaching the fan cover 12, the fan cover 12 is moved (upwards) so that the direction in which the rotation shaft 131 of the motor 13 extends is closer to the motor 13. In other words, the fan 11 and the fan cover 12 can be attached to and detached from the housing 10 from the same direction (in this case, the direction in which the rotation shaft 131 extends) and from the same side (the side opposite to the side where the motor body is located, and the side where the humidifying filter 7 is located). This reduces the effort required to attach and detach the fan 11 and the fan cover 12.

[0060] As shown in Figure 18, the fan cover 12 has a bottom portion 121 and a peripheral portion 122. The bottom portion 121 is the area facing the central opening of the humidifying filter 7. The bottom portion 121 has communication holes 121a through which air drawn in by the rotational drive of the fan 11 passes. There are multiple communication holes 121a, arranged in a mesh-like pattern. In other words, the multiple communication holes 121a are formed concentrically and spaced apart in the circumferential direction. As shown in Figures 2 and 20, the bottom portion 121 is located above the central opening of the cylindrical humidifying filter 7. As a result, the air passing through the communication holes 121a becomes air that has passed through the humidifying filter 7, thereby increasing the humidification efficiency. As shown in Figure 18, the peripheral portion 122 has a stepped shape. The diameter of the step decreases as it approaches the bottom portion 121. The peripheral portion 122 is configured to be close to the fan 11 but not to interfere with the fan.

[0061] The fan cover 12 has a mounting portion 123 for detachably attaching the fan cover 12 to the frame 21 (second frame 25). The mounting portion 123 is configured by an engagement structure with the second frame 25, and in this case, it is formed on the peripheral portion 122. The mounting portion 123 is composed of a protruding portion (engaging portion) that engages with the groove portion 258b (engaged portion) that constitutes the mounting portion 258 of the second frame 25 shown in Figure 11. There are three mounting portions 123, corresponding to the number of mounting portions 258 on the second frame 25. These are designated "123A," "123B," and "123C," and are simply designated "123" when there is no need to distinguish between them. The mounting portion 123A of the fan cover 12 engages with the mounting portion 258A of the frame 21, which is designated "A." The mounting portion 123 has a protruding portion (convex portion) 123a that extends radially outward from the upper end of the peripheral portion 122 and extends along the circumferential direction.

[0062] The mounting portion 123B engages with the mounting portion 258B of the frame 21. As shown in Figure 11(b), the mounting portion 258B on the frame 21 has a retaining portion 258d (protruding portion) that prevents the fan cover 12 from coming off. For this reason, as shown in Figure 17(c), the mounting portion 123B has groove portions 123b and 123c for the retaining portion 258d. The groove portion 123b is a groove through which the convex portion, which is the anti-slip portion 258d, passes when the protruding portion 123a moves upward within the recessed portion 258a of the frame 21. The groove portion 123b is provided on the side that rotates when attaching the protruding portion 123a, and extends in the vertical direction. The groove portion 123c is a groove into which the protruding portion 258d, which is the anti-slip portion, fits when the ridge portion 123a moves from the recess portion 258a of the frame 21 to the groove portion 258b side. The groove portion 123c is provided on the lower side relative to the ridge portion 123a.

[0063] As shown in Figure 7, the fan cover 12 has a gripping portion 124 that can be gripped when attaching or detaching the fan cover 12. The gripping portion 124 is provided to extend downward from the peripheral portion 122. Here, it extends in a cylindrical shape and is located on the outer circumference side of the humidifying filter 7. As shown in Figure 7, the fan cover 12 has rib portions 125 on the outer surface of its peripheral portion 122. This allows the rib portions 125 to be used when attaching or detaching the fan cover 12. It also reinforces the peripheral portion 122. Multiple rib portions 125 (for example, 6) are formed at intervals in the circumferential direction, and one of them is connected to the gripping portion 124. The rib portion 125 has a notched portion 125a on the central axis side of the circumferential portion 122, giving it a stepped shape. As shown in Figure 2, the upper end member 72 of the humidifying filter 7 fits into the notched portion 125a. This positions the cylindrical humidifying filter 7 in the circumferential direction.

[0064] The fan cover 12 has a cylindrical portion 126 that extends downward. As shown in Figure 20, the cylindrical portion 126 is provided such that its lower end (bottom surface) abuts against the elastic member 75 at the upper end of the humidifying filter 7. Here, the cylindrical portion 126 is provided on the bottom 121 side of the peripheral portion 122. This improves the airtightness between the fan cover 12 and the humidifying filter 7, thereby increasing humidification efficiency.

[0065] 5. Water supply route from the water inlet As shown in Figure 19, the water supply path from the water inlet 22b is formed in a space enclosed by the upper cover 22, the fan cover 12, the inner cylindrical portion 245 and cylindrical portion 251 (which is the inner wall portion or wall portion) of the frame 21, and the bottomed cylindrical portion 241 of the frame 21, with the upstream end being the upper cover 22 (water inlet 22b) and the downstream end being the fan cover 12 (communication hole 121a). A portion of the water supplied from the water inlet 22b and flowing into the tank 5 through the water supply path and the communication hole 121a (for example, the second flow path F2) passes at least between the blades 113 of the fan 11. Because the water passes through the fan 11 in this way, the water supply path can be easily provided. In other words, the water that enters the water supply path from the water inlet 22b flows out through one of the first channel F1, the second channel F2, or the third channel F3, as shown in Figure 19, and then flows out through the communication hole 121a. The first flow path F1 is a flow path that goes from the top surface of the fan 11 through the fixing member 16 and the fan cover 12. More specifically, it is a flow path that goes from the water inlet 22b through the top surface of the main plate portion 111 of the fan 11, through hole 111a of the main plate portion 111, the wall portion 161 (inner surface) of the fixing member 16, through hole 161a of the fixing member 16 and the communication hole 121a of the fan cover 12. The second flow path F2 is a flow path that passes through the blades 113 of the fan 11 and the fan cover 12. More specifically, it is a flow path that passes from the water inlet 22b through the space between the blades 113 of the fan 11 and through the communication hole 121a of the fan cover 12. The third flow path F3 is a flow path that goes from the outside of the fan 11 through the fan cover 12. More specifically, it is a flow path that goes from the water inlet 22b through the space between the fan 11 and the inner cylindrical portion 245 or cylindrical portion 251 (wall portion) of the frame 21, and through the communication hole 121a of the fan cover 12. In this way, water can be supplied to the tank 5 regardless of the position of the water inlet 22b on the top surface of the housing 10.

[0066] As shown in Figure 19, the water flowing from the communication holes 121a of the fan cover 12 to the tank 5 does not directly come into contact with the filter body 71 because the multiple communication holes 121a of the fan cover 12 are located above the central opening 7a of the humidifying filter 7. Therefore, even if dust adhering to the water inlet 22b or the blades 113 of the fan 11 flows into the tank 5 with the water, it is less likely to adhere to the filter body 71. In the connection between the frame 21 and the fan cover 12, that is, the connection between the lower end of the second frame 25 and the upper end 122a of the peripheral portion 122 of the fan cover 12, as shown in Figure 20, the upper end 122a of the fan cover 12 is fitted from below into the fitting groove 251d of the lower end of the second frame 25. In other words, the extended portion 251c of the lower end 251e of the second frame 25 overlaps the inner circumferential surface of the upper end 122a of the peripheral portion 122 of the fan cover 12. This makes it difficult for water to leak from the connection between the second frame 25 and the fan cover 12 when water is supplied from the water inlet 22b. The cylindrical portion 251 of the second frame 25 is an example of a wall portion that constitutes a water supply path and an air supply path.

[0067] 6. Airflow path As shown in Figure 19, the airflow path from the fan cover 12 to the outlet 22b is formed in a space enclosed by the upper cover 22, the fan cover 12, the inner cylindrical portion 245 and cylindrical portion 251 (which is the inner wall portion or wall portion) of the frame 21, and the bottomed cylindrical portion 241 of the frame 21, with the upstream end being the fan cover 12 (communication hole 121a) and the downstream end being the upper cover 22 (outlet 22b). In this way, the air supply path and the water supply path utilize the same space, allowing them to be implemented with a simple configuration. Furthermore, it is cheaper and more compact than providing separate air supply and water supply paths. Within the airflow path, as shown in Figure 20, the extension line L1 of the side plate portion 112 of the fan 11 intersects the cylindrical portion 251 above the connection portion between the second frame 25 and the fan cover 12 (the portion where the fitting groove 251d is formed). As a result, the air flowing along the side plate portion 112 of the fan 11 does not hit the protruding portion (fitting portion 259) at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 251, thereby suppressing the generation of turbulence. The cylindrical portion 251 of the second frame 25 is an example of a wall portion that constitutes the water supply path and the airflow path.

[0068] <Another form> 1. Float section As shown in Figures 21(a) and (b), the float section 1054 includes a water level float 1541 that rises and falls up and down depending on the water level, and a guide 1542 that guides the vertical movement of the water level float 1541. The water level sensor 18 uses the same magnetic sensor as in the embodiment, and the water level float 1541 is equipped with a magnet 1541a (see Figures 21(b) and 22(a)). As shown in Figure 21(b), the drought float 1541 is positioned in the space 1543 enclosed by the tank 5 and the guide member 1057.

[0069] As shown in Figure 22(b), the guide member 1057 has a "U" shaped opposing portion 1573 that faces the peripheral wall 52 of the tank 5, and an extended portion 1574 that extends from the periphery of the opposing portion 1573 toward the peripheral wall 52 (which is also the radially outward direction of the tank 5). The opposing portion 1573 has a vertically extended portion 1573a that is positioned on both sides of the recess 56 in the circumferential direction and extends vertically, and a horizontally extended portion 1573b that extends circumferentially below the recess 56 and connects to the lower end of the vertically extended portion 1573a. Here again, the terms "vertical" and "horizontal" in the vertically extended portion 1573a and the horizontally extended portion 1573b are added for convenience to distinguish between the extended portions. The lateral extension portion 1573b faces the space 1543, and multiple through holes 1573c are formed therein to allow water to enter and exit the space 1543. The extension portion 1574 is provided on the periphery of the opposing portion 1573, excluding the upper edge of the lateral extension portion 1573b. The extension portion 1574 has a guide 1542 in the portion 1574a facing the space 1543 that guides the drought float 1541. The guide 1542 is composed of a through groove that extends in the direction in which the drought float 1541 rises and falls (vertical direction). As shown in Figure 21(a), the dimensions (width) of the through groove differ in the vertical direction and the direction perpendicular to it. The guide composed of a through groove with a smaller width is designated as "1542a", and the guide composed of a through groove with a larger width is designated as "1542b".

[0070] Specifically, the space 1543 in which the drought float 1541 is located is composed of the peripheral wall 52 of the tank 5, the lower wall portion 561 of the recess 56, the laterally extended portion 1573b of the guide member 1057, and the extended portion 1574 of the guide member 1057 that faces the recess 56 from the circumferential direction, as shown in Figure 22(a).

[0071] As shown in Figure 21, the water level float 1541 has a long, elongated main body portion 1541b that runs along the peripheral wall 52 of the tank 5. The main body portion 1541b has a shape such that its cross-sectional area decreases from the center towards the ends in the longitudinal direction. The upper surface of the main body portion 1541b has a shape that makes it difficult for water to accumulate. In other words, the upper surface of the main body portion 1541b bulges upward so that the center in the short direction is higher. More specifically, it slopes downward from the center towards the ends in the short direction. This makes it easier for water to drain from the upper surface of the water level float 1541 when the water level drops during humidification, and improves the phenomenon in which the water level float 1541 is difficult to fall (the upper surface of the water level float 1541 remains stuck to the lower wall portion 561) due to the surface tension (interfacial tension) of the water accumulated between the upper surface of the water level float 1541 and the lower wall portion 561 of the recess 56. The main body 1541b has a flattened, elongated shape with a small vertical dimension. In other words, the dimensions increase in the vertical direction, then the short-side direction, and finally the long-side direction. The main body 1541b has a vertically symmetrical shape, and its cross-sectional area decreases from the center towards the ends in the short-side direction.

[0072] The drought float 1541 has a rectangular parallelepiped magnet 1541a inside the main body 1541b. The magnet 1541a is positioned so that its longitudinal center coincides with or approximately coincides with the longitudinal center of the drought float 1541. This allows the drought float 1541 to float and sink while being less likely to tilt horizontally. The north and south poles of the magnet 1541a are aligned in the longitudinal direction.

[0073] As shown in Figure 21, the waterlogged float 1541 has protrusions 1541c and 1541d that project outward in the longitudinal direction from the longitudinal end (the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of the main body portion 1541b. As shown in Figure 21(a), the protrusions 1541c and 1541d are arranged within the guides 1542a and 1542b of the guide member 1057. Here, the protrusions 1541c and 1541d are inserted through the through grooves of the guides 1542a and 1542b. This makes it less likely for the waterlogged float 1541 to get caught on the members forming the space 1543, and stabilizes its buoyancy. The two protrusions 1541c and 1541d have different diameters. In other words, the larger diameter protrusion 1542d is configured not to fit into the guide 1542a, which has a narrower through groove. This prevents the position of the north and south poles of the magnet 1541a from being incorrect during assembly, making it easier for the water level sensor 18 to detect the magnetism of the magnet 1541a.

[0074] In the member forming the space 1543, as shown in Figures 21(b) and 22(a), a communication portion 1544 is provided in the upper part of the space 1543, communicating with the space 1543. Here, the communication portion 1544 is formed by a slit created between the lower wall portion 561 of the recess 56 and the laterally extended portion 1573b of the guide member 1057. This makes it easier for water to drain from the top of the water-draining float 1541 when the water level drops during humidification, improving the phenomenon in which the water-draining float 1541 is difficult to drop (remains attached to the laterally extended portion 1573b) due to the surface tension (interfacial tension) of the water accumulated between the laterally extended portion 1573b and the top of the water-draining float 1541, as would occur in the absence of the communication portion 1544.

[0075] 2.Display means As shown in Figure 23, the display means 1142 includes a plurality of LEDs 142A for display mounted on the substrate 141, a cover 1142B that covers the entire plurality of LEDs 142A and has through holes 1142Ba in the parts corresponding to the LEDs 142A, and a lens 1142C placed in the through holes 1142Ba of the cover 1142B. For convenience, the cover 1142B is labeled "LED" to make it easier to understand what it covers.

[0076] Light emitted from LED 142A passes through lens 1142C and the cover portion 144a of cover body 144. Lens 1142C has a light-guiding function that allows light from LED 142A to propagate to cover body 144. This makes the displayed content (light) easier to recognize. Fourteen of the multiple LEDs, LED142A, form two 7-segment displays and are mounted on circuit board 141 in a shape resembling two "8"s.

[0077] The LED cover 1142B is plate-shaped and has multiple through holes 1142Ba and mounting portions 1142Bb for attaching the LED cover 1142B to the substrate 141. The attachment here utilizes an engagement structure, and the LED cover 1142B is composed of engagement portions that engage with the engaged portions (through holes) 141b of the substrate 141.

[0078] The seven lenses 1142C that fit into the through-hole 1142Ba of one 7-segment display are made of different materials for lenses 1142C that fit into adjacent through-holes 1142Ba. For the sake of explanation, when viewing the figure "8" from the front, the three parts extending in the left-right direction are called the upper extension, middle extension, and lower extension, the two parts extending vertically on the right side are called the upper right extension and lower right extension, and the parts extending vertically on the left side are called the upper left extension and lower left extension.

[0079] As shown in Figure 23(c), lens 1142C is composed of two separate members in areas where the upper extension and the upper right extension are close together, distinct from the member constituting the upper extension and the member constituting the upper right extension. Similarly, in areas where the middle extension, the upper right extension, and the lower right extension are close together, lens 1142C is composed of three separate members: distinct from the member constituting the middle extension, the member constituting the upper right extension, and the member constituting the lower right extension. Here, three lens bodies 1147A, 1147B, and 1147C are used for one 7-segment display. If adjacent lenses 1142C were molded from a single component, the thickness of the mold located between the adjacent lenses 1142C would be reduced, potentially leading to insufficient mold strength. However, by using separate components for adjacent lenses 1142C, mold strength can be more easily ensured compared to the case where adjacent lenses are molded from a single component. In this case, the three lenses 1142C in the upper extension, middle extension, and lower extension sections are made of lens body 1147A, the two lenses 1142C in the upper right extension and upper left extension sections are made of lens body 1147B, and the two lenses 1142C in the lower right extension and lower left extension sections are made of lens body 1147C.

[0080] The two 7-segment displays are, in this case, composed of three lens bodies 1147A, 1147B, and 1147C, as shown in Figure 23(c). Furthermore, by making the adjacent lens 1142C a separate component, it is possible to improve the leakage of light to the adjacent lens 1142C through the runner portion 1142D that connects the lenses 1142C. Lens units 1147A, 1147B, and 1147C are equipped with a display lens 1142C in addition to the lens 1142C for 7-segment display. This reduces the number of components (lens units) required for lens 1142C.

[0081] <Variation> Although embodiments have been described above, the invention is not limited to these embodiments, and may be modified in the following ways, for example. Furthermore, embodiments may be combined with modifications, or modifications may be combined with each other. Furthermore, examples not described in the embodiments or modifications, as well as design changes that do not depart from the gist of the invention, are also included in the present invention.

[0082] 1. Overall (1) In the embodiment, the humidifier X had a cylindrical shape overall, but it may also have a polygonal prism such as a rectangular prism, an elliptical prism, or a combination of these shapes. (2) In the embodiment, the housing 10 had an intake port (through hole) 27a on its circumferential surface and an outlet port (opening) 22b on its upper surface. However, if the outlet port 22b is not used as a water supply port (22b) to the tank 5, the outlet port 22b may be provided on the circumferential surface. (3) In the embodiment, the rotation axes of the fan 11 and motor 13 were arranged vertically, that is, above the tank 5 and the humidifying filter 7. However, the fan 11 and the humidifying filter 7 may be arranged side by side horizontally. (4) The main body of the device 1 is equipped with all the electrically operated electrical components (for example, the motor 13, switch 15, temperature and humidity sensor 19, etc.), but some of the electrical components may be provided on the tank side. However, from the viewpoint of waterproofing, it is preferable to provide all of them in the main body of the device 1 (main body 20). (5) The center of the upper cover 22, the central axis of the rotation shaft 131 of the motor 13, the central axis of the shaft portion 114 of the fan 11, the center of the fan cover 12, the central axis of the humidifying filter 7, and the central axis of the tank 5 are, in design terms, located on a single imaginary line extending in the vertical direction, but they do not have to be on the imaginary line except for the motor 13 and the fan 11.

[0083] 2. Tank (1) The positioning portion 53 protrudes so as to face (approach) the inner circumferential surface of the humidifying filter 7, but it may also protrude so as to face (approach) the outer circumferential surface of the humidifying filter 7, or it may protrude so as to face (approach) both the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface. Alternatively, the positioning portion 53 may be configured in a recess formed in the bottom wall 51. (2) The positioning part 53 is C-shaped when viewed from above, but it may also be circular, or multiple parts may protrude at intervals in the circumferential direction. (3) The tank 5 is of a type in which the main body of the device 1 is placed on top of it, but for example, it may be of a type that can be inserted into and removed from the main body of the device 1, and when it is housed, the fan cover 12, fan 11, motor 13 and outlet 22b may be arranged on top of the tank. (4) The water-repellent floats 541 and 1541 have a flattened rectangular prism shape or a shape similar to a flattened rectangular prism, but may also have a cubic shape, a spherical shape (spherical ellipsoid shape), a spherical ellipsoid shape, a polygonal shape with a rhombic cross-section in the short direction, or a shape similar thereto. However, the magnets 541a and 1541a are preferably located at the center of gravity of the water-repellent floats 541 and 1541, and are preferably positioned so that the water-repellent floats 541 and 1541 do not float or sink when inclined with respect to a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (horizontal direction). (5) The guide for the drought float may be made up of the ribs of the guide 542 (first rib section 571 and second rib section 572), or it may be made up of the through grooves or recesses of the guide 1542. (6) The main body 1541b of the water-repellent float 1541 has a shape that is symmetrical with respect to its center in the longitudinal direction, but does not have to be symmetrical, and it has a shape that is symmetrical with respect to its center in the short direction, but does not have to be symmetrical. (7) In the space 1543 for the water-repellent float 1541, the communication portion 1544 was formed between the laterally extended portion 1573b of the guide member 1057 and the lower wall portion 561 of the recess 56, but it may also be a through hole or through groove formed in the extended portion 1574 of the guide member 1057. However, considering the adhesion of the water-repellent float 1541 to the wall, it is preferable to provide a continuous slit-shaped through portion in the portion with a large surface area facing the water-repellent float 1541 (later extended portion 1573b).

[0084] 3. Humidifying filter (1) The upper end member 72 and the lower end member 73 had an "I" shape in cross-section perpendicular to the circumferential direction, but the cross-sectional shape may be "U" shape. In other words, the upper end member 72 and the lower end member 73 of the embodiment may have a shape in which the inner cylindrical portion 721, 731 and the outer cylindrical portion 722, 732 on one outer side in the vertical direction are cut off from the flat portion 723, 733. (2) The upper end member 72 and the lower end member 73 have both inner cylindrical portions 721, 731 and outer cylindrical portions 722, 732, but they may have only one of them. (3) The humidifying filter 7 has an elastic member 75 on its upper end member 72, but the elastic member 75 may also be placed on its lower end member 73. This allows the humidifying filter 7 to be placed in the tank 5 regardless of its up and down orientation. The elastic member 75 may be fixed to the upper end member 72 with an adhesive or the like, or it may be removably placed on the upper end member 72. If it is not fixed, the humidifying filter 7 can be positioned regardless of its up or down orientation. (4) The filter body 71 may be made by forming a cylindrical shape from a single bellows-folded humidifying filter member, or by arranging a plurality of bellows-folded humidifying filter members in a cylindrical shape. The humidifying filter member was folded in the radial direction, but it may also be made into a structure that is folded in the vertical direction, for example. (5) The filter body 71 is cylindrical, but may be constructed by arranging, for example, a plurality of flat humidifying filter members in a polygonal cylindrical shape.

[0085] 4. Main unit of the device (1) The housing 10 had the frame 21, the upper cover 22, and the body cover 23 as separate components, but they may be provided as a single unit. Furthermore, although the casing 10 has a frame 21 and an upper cover 22 as separate components, they may be integrated as a single unit. Similarly, although the frame 21 and the body cover 23 were originally separate components, they may also be integrated as a single unit. (2) The frame 21 is composed of two members, a first frame 24 and a second frame 25, but it may be composed of one member or three or more members. (3) The first frame 24 is constructed separately from the upper cover 22, but for example, it may be constructed integrally with the upper cover 22. (4) The first frame 24 houses the motor 13 in a bottomed cylindrical portion 241, and the operation / display unit 14 is provided so as to close the opening of the bottomed cylindrical portion 241. However, the operation / display unit 14 may be provided on, for example, the body cover 23, and the opening of the bottomed cylindrical portion 241 may be closed with the upper cover. (5) The connecting section 243 of the first frame 24 houses the wiring 159, 189, but at least one of the wiring 159, 189 may be placed outside the connecting section 243. Considering safety and the risk of cutting the wiring, it is preferable to house the wiring 159, 189 inside the connecting section 243. (6) The operation / display unit 14 has a circuit board 141 fixed to the first frame 24, and a cover body 144 fixed to the first frame 24 so as to cover the circuit board 141. However, the circuit board 141 and the cover body 144 may be made into a unit and fixed to the first frame 24 or the upper cover 22. However, considering the ease of wiring and other work for the operation / display unit 14, it is preferable to fix the circuit board 141 to the first frame 24. (7) The opening 22b on the outer circumference of the upper cover 22 serves as both an air outlet and a water inlet, but it may have only one of these functions. In other words, separate air outlets and water supply paths may be provided. Also, in this embodiment, water can be supplied from the opening 22b, but for example, the instruction manual for the device may describe removing the tank 5 from the main body 1 and supplying water to the tank 5. In other words, the humidifier X is not limited to a device that can only be supplied with water from the opening 22b on the top surface. (8) The upper cover 22 was fixed to the frame 21 by screws 392, but it may be made detachable from the frame 21. As a detachable configuration, the upper cover 22 may be placed on the frame 21, fitted into a recess in the frame 21, or engaged with the frame 21 by moving (for example, rotating) the upper cover 22. (9) The upper cover 22 has a cover portion 226 corresponding to all the connecting portions 243 of the first frame 24, but the cover portion 226 may be provided only for the connecting portions 243 where the wiring 158 and 189 are located. This can reduce material costs. Alternatively, a separate member corresponding to the cover portion may be provided and sandwiched between the upper cover 22 and the frame 21. (10) The switch 15 is located on the outer peripheral edge of the top surface of the housing 10 (the outer ring portion 222 of the upper cover 22), but it may also be located on the side of the housing 10, for example, on the body cover 23. If the air outlet 22b is not used as a water inlet, the switch 15 may be incorporated into the operation / display unit 14. (11) The switch 15 is located on the opposite side of the mounting member 31 from the operation / display unit 14, but it may also be located on the side of the mounting member 31 or around the mounting member 31. This allows the wiring 158 and 189 to be consolidated in one place, making the assembly work more efficient. (12) Switch 15 uses a so-called tact switch, but a toggle switch, push button switch, slide switch, etc. may also be used. (13) The operation / display unit 14 was located in the center of the top surface of the housing 10, but it may be located elsewhere depending on the position of the air outlet (water inlet) 22b. It may also be located on the side of the housing 10, for example, on the body cover 23 or the mounting member 31. (14) The operation / display unit 14 is an example of an operation unit and does not necessarily have to include a display means 142. Also, although a touch panel such as an electrostatic touch panel was used as the operation means 143, a contact type (button type, slide type, etc.) may also be used. (15) The gap between the operation / display unit 14 and the upper cover 22 is configured to be small by placing a gasket or the like, but for example, a gap may be intentionally provided so that the supplied water flows through the gap. (16) The fixing member 16 has the same number of inner ribs 162 and outer ribs 163, but the number may be different. The upper end of the inner rib 162 coincides with the upper end of the shaft 164, but it does not have to coincide, and for example it may extend above the upper end. The inner rib 162 and the outer rib 163 face each other via the wall 161, but they do not have to face each other if the mechanical properties such as rigidity against torsion are sufficient. The through hole 161a in the wall 161 may be omitted if drainage is not considered. (17) The cylindrical portion 126 of the fan cover 12 protrudes downward in a rib-like manner, and the lower surface of the cylindrical portion 126 is in contact with the elastic member 75 of the humidifying filter 7, but the radial thickness of the cylindrical portion 126 may be large. Also, there may be one cylindrical portion 126 or multiple cylindrical portions. For example, three cylindrical portions may be arranged concentrically with radial spacing between them. The cylindrical portion 126 is provided on the flat portion at the lowest end of the circumferential portion 122, but it is sufficient that the lower surface of the cylindrical portion 126 abuts against the elastic member 75, and it does not need to be provided on the flat portion. (18) The cylindrical portion 126 of the fan cover 12 contacts the elastic member 75 of the humidifying filter 7 to enhance airtightness. However, if the elastic member 75 is not used, the cylindrical portion may be fitted into a circular groove on the upper end member of the humidifying filter 7. If fitting is to be used, the cylindrical portion may be provided on the upper end member and the groove on the fan cover. (19) The gripping portion 124 of the fan cover 12 may be one or multiple. Its shape may be rod-shaped, cylindrical, or plate-shaped. If it is rod-shaped or cylindrical, the outer shape of the cross-section may be a circle, an ellipse, a polygon, a combination of these, or a shape similar to these. (20) The water supply path and the air supply path utilize the same space, but they may utilize different spaces, or they may utilize a portion of the space in common. A portion of the water (the water passing through) the water supply path (second flow path F2) passes between the blades 113 of the fan 11, but it may be configured so that it does not pass between the blades 113. (21) The side plate portion 112 of the fan 11 widens linearly so that its diameter increases as it moves towards the motor 13, but it may also widen in a curved manner. In this case, the extension line will be tangent to the curved portion. (22) The display means 142, 1142 were equipped with 7-segment displays, but they may also be equipped with 16-segment displays. Also, depending on the content to be displayed, there may be one 7-segment display or three or more. (23) The display means 1142 uses three lens bodies 1147A, 1147B, and 1147C for one and two 7-segment displays, but it may be composed of four or more lens bodies. When seven independent lens bodies are used for the 7-segment display, it is not necessary to provide a runner section, and no light leakage will occur.

[0086] <<Invention>> Examples of embodiments and modifications include at least the following inventions. <Invention 1> 1. Prior art Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-78363 discloses an evaporative humidifier equipped with a fan above the humidifying filter. This humidifier has a water supply path separate from the air intake path, allowing water to be supplied from above. However, the above-mentioned literature does not describe how to clean the inside of the device, especially how to clean the area around the fan when it becomes dirty. The present invention 1 aims to provide a humidifier that allows for easy cleaning of fans and other components.

[0087] 2. Invention 1 (1) First humidifier The first humidifier is, In a humidifier comprising a main unit and a tank, The device body comprises a fan, a fan cover, and a housing on which the fan and the fan cover are provided. The tank is detachable from the main body of the device. The fan cover and the fan are detachable from the housing. This allows you to remove the fan cover and fan, enabling you to clean the inside of the device and the fan (including the fan cover). Furthermore, there are no particular restrictions on the direction in which the fan cover and fan of the first humidifier can be removed.

[0088] (2) Second humidifier The second humidifier is constructed in the same way as the first humidifier. The fan cover and the fan are detachable from the housing in the same direction and from the same side. This reduces the hassle of attaching and detaching the fan cover and fan.

[0089] (3) Third humidifier The third humidifier is provided in the first or second humidifier, The main body of the device is placed on top of the tank. A cylindrical humidifying filter is placed inside the tank. At least one of the housing and the tank is provided with an intake port at a position facing the outer surface of the humidifying filter. At least a portion of the communication holes in the fan cover faces the opening on the upper surface of the humidifying filter, The fan is positioned above the fan cover, An air outlet is provided above the aforementioned fan. This allows air drawn in from all sides of the cylindrical humidifying filter to be blown out from the outlet on the top, increasing the surface area through which air passes in the humidifying filter and improving humidification efficiency. Here, "the fan is positioned above the fan cover" means "the fan is positioned above the fan cover, with the fan cover as the reference point," and the fan and fan cover may or may not overlap vertically. Similarly, "an air outlet is provided above the fan" means "the air outlet is provided above the fan, with the fan as the reference point," and the fan and the air outlet may or may not overlap vertically.

[0090] (4) The fourth humidifier The fourth humidifier is one of the first to third humidifiers, The fan cover has a gripping portion that can be gripped when attaching or detaching it from the housing. This makes it easy to attach and detach the fan cover.

[0091] (5) The fifth humidifier The fifth humidifier is one of the first to fourth humidifiers, The main body of the aforementioned device is A motor that rotates the aforementioned fan, A fixing member that secures the fan to the motor such that the rotating shaft of the motor passes through the fan. Equipped with, The fixing member has a bullet-shaped design that tapers in line with the direction of airflow from the fan. This can improve the airflow effect on the fan.

[0092] (6) The sixth humidifier The sixth humidifier is one of the first to fifth humidifiers, The fixing member has a wall portion that forms the bullet shape, an inner rib portion formed on the inner circumferential surface of the wall portion, and an outer rib portion formed on the outer circumferential surface of the wall portion. The inner rib portion and the outer rib portion face each other via the wall portion. This allows for reinforcement against rotational loads (torsion) with a simple structure.

[0093] (7) The seventh humidifier The seventh humidifier is one of the first to sixth humidifiers, The airflow path provided by the fan, specifically the airflow path between the communication hole in the fan cover and the outlet, is at least part of the water supply path that supplies water to the tank. A portion of the water supply path passes between the fan blades. This allows for water supply from above to be achieved with a simple configuration by utilizing the airflow path.

[0094] (8) The eighth humidifier The eighth humidifier is one of the first to seventh humidifiers, The main body of the device includes a wall portion that forms the airflow path, The lower end of the wall and the upper end of the fan cover are connected. The lower end of the wall portion overlaps the inner circumferential surface of the upper end of the fan cover. This makes it less likely for water to leak from the connection between the wall and the fan cover when water is supplied from above.

[0095] (9) The 9th Humidifier The 9th humidifier is one of the first to eighth humidifiers, The aforementioned fan is a mixed-flow fan, The extension of the side plate portion of the fan intersects with the wall portion above the lower end of the wall portion. This prevents the air flowing along the side plate of the fan from hitting any protruding parts of the wall, thereby suppressing the generation of turbulence.

[0096] (10) The 10th humidifier The tenth humidifier is a combination of the first to ninth humidifiers. The main body of the aforementioned device is A switch for operating the device on / off is provided on the outer edge or side of the upper surface of the housing, An operating unit located in the center of the upper surface of the housing and Equipped with, The aforementioned air outlet is provided between the outer edge and the central part of the upper surface of the housing. This allows the switch to be turned off when water is supplied from the top, preventing accidental activation of the switch in the central control unit.

[0097] (11) The 11th Humidifier The 11th humidifier is a combination of the 1st to 10th humidifiers, The surface of the fan cover facing the humidifying filter is in contact with the humidifying filter. This improves the airtightness between the fan cover and the humidifying filter, thereby increasing humidification efficiency.

[0098] <Invention 2> 1. Prior art Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-78363 describes a humidifier that includes a main body member and a water storage container installed inside the main body member, wherein a water injection component is installed at the upper end of the main body member, a water injection chamber is formed in the water injection component, the water injection chamber communicates with the water storage container, an air guide passage is further formed in the main body member, and the water injection chamber and the air guide passage are separated from each other. However, the above-mentioned humidifier has a complex structure because the water supply chamber and the air duct are separated. The present invention 2 aims to provide a humidifier with a simple structure.

[0099] 2. Invention 2 Humidifiers are In a humidifier comprising a main unit and a tank, The main body of the device comprises a fan and a motor in a housing having an intake port and an outlet port. The aforementioned tank is capable of storing water for humidification and is equipped with a humidifying filter. The airflow path of the fan blowing out the outlet is at least part of the water supply path that supplies water to the tank from the outlet. This allows the air supply path and the water supply path to be shared in at least part of the way, simplifying the structure.

[0100] <Invention 3> 1. Prior art Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-78363 describes a humidifier in which a water storage container 3 for storing water for humidification is located at the bottom of a first casing 1, and the first casing 1 is fitted inside a second casing 2. However, with the above-mentioned humidifiers, the water reservoir cannot be easily cleaned. The present invention 3 aims to provide a humidifier that allows for easy cleaning of the tank.

[0101] 2. Invention 3 Humidifiers are In a humidifier comprising a main unit and a tank, The tank is detachable from the main body of the device. This makes it easy to clean the tank.

[0102] <Invention 4> 1. Prior art Japanese Patent Publication No. 2014-134893 discloses a 7-segment display device equipped with a reflector having multiple through-apers corresponding to each of multiple light-emitting elements (LEDs). However, when a lens (light guide member) is placed in the through-opening to improve visibility, there is a risk that the strength of the mold used to form the lens may be insufficient. The present invention, part 4, aims to provide a 7-segment or 16-segment display device that can ensure the strength of a mold for lens molding.

[0103] 2. Invention 4 The display device is In a display device for 7-segment or 16-segment displays, Multiple LEDs for display, A cover having through holes in the portion corresponding to multiple LEDs and covering multiple LEDs, Lenses arranged in multiple through holes in the cover Equipped with, The aforementioned lens is composed of different materials for adjacent lenses. This eliminates the need to place a mold between closely spaced lenses, thus ensuring the strength of the mold.

[0104] <Other> Invention 1 may or may not have the inventive features of Inventions 2 to 4. Invention 2 may or may not have the inventive features of Inventions 1, 3, and 4. Invention 3 may or may not have the inventive features of Inventions 1, 2, and 4. Invention 4 may or may not have the inventive features of Inventions 1 to 3. Invention 1 may include an invention with the configuration described in the detailed description of the invention. Inventions 2 to 4 may include inventions with configurations described in any of the 1st to 11th humidifier invention features or detailed description of the invention of Invention 1. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] X Humidifier 1. Main unit of the device 5 tanks 7 Humidification filter 7a aperture 10 cabinets 11 Fans 12 Fan Covers 13 Motors 14. Operation and Display Unit (Operation Unit) 15 switches 16 Fixing member 17 DC Jack 21 frames 22 Top cover 22b Air outlet (water supply port) 23 Body Cover 27a Inlet 121a Communication hole 124 Gripping part 131 Rotation axis 161 Wall 162 Inner Rib 163 Outer Rib L1 extension line

Claims

1. In a humidifier comprising a main unit and a tank, The device body comprises a fan, a fan cover, and a housing on which the fan and the fan cover are provided. The tank is detachable from the main body of the device. The fan cover and the fan are detachable from the housing. Humidifier.

2. The fan cover and the fan are detachable from the housing in the same direction and from the same side. The humidifier according to claim 1.

3. The main body of the device is placed on top of the tank. A cylindrical humidifying filter is placed inside the tank. At least one of the housing and the tank is provided with an intake port at a position facing the outer surface of the humidifying filter. At least a portion of the communication holes in the fan cover faces the opening on the upper surface of the humidifying filter, The fan is positioned above the fan cover, An air outlet is provided above the aforementioned fan. A humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The fan cover has a gripping portion that can be gripped when attaching or detaching it from the housing. A humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The main body of the aforementioned device is A motor that rotates the aforementioned fan, A fixing member that secures the fan to the motor such that the rotating shaft of the motor passes through the fan. Equipped with, The fixing member has a bullet shape that tapers in line with the direction of airflow from the fan. A humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The fixing member has a wall portion that forms the bullet shape, an inner rib portion formed on the inner circumferential surface of the wall portion, and an outer rib portion formed on the outer circumferential surface of the wall portion. The inner rib portion and the outer rib portion face each other via the wall portion. The humidifier according to claim 5.

7. The airflow path provided by the fan, specifically the airflow path between the communication hole in the fan cover and the outlet, is at least part of the water supply path that supplies water to the tank. A portion of the water supply path passes between the fan blades. The humidifier according to claim 3.

8. The main body of the device includes a wall portion that forms the airflow path, The lower end of the wall and the upper end of the fan cover are connected. The lower end of the wall portion overlaps the inner circumferential surface of the upper end of the fan cover. The humidifier according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned fan is a mixed-flow fan, The extension of the side plate portion of the fan intersects with the wall portion above the lower end of the wall portion. The humidifier according to claim 8.

10. The main body of the aforementioned device is A switch for operating the device on / off is provided on the outer edge or side of the upper surface of the housing, An operating unit located in the center of the upper surface of the housing and Equipped with, The aforementioned air outlet is provided between the outer edge and the central part of the upper surface of the housing. The humidifier according to claim 3.

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