Filters, air conditioning systems, and analytical methods

Abstract

This device easily collects dust from the air for analyzing the air quality in a target space. [Solution] The filter (50) is installed in the air passage (P) through which the air (A) flows in an air conditioning device (1) for harmonizing the air (A) in a target space (S), and collects dust (D) from the air (A) for analyzing the air quality in the target space (S).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filter, an air conditioning apparatus, and an analysis method.

Background Art

[0002] In the filter mounting structure for an air conditioner disclosed in Patent Document 1, a plurality of types of filters with different maintenance cycles are installed in series in the air flow direction. In this filter mounting structure for an air conditioner, a filter frame for mounting the filter on the upstream side in the air flow direction is provided so as to be swingable relative to the main body frame, and the filter on the downstream side is fixed by the swingably provided filter frame.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, the air quality in a target space can be analyzed by collecting dust from the air in the target space and analyzing the dust. In order to collect dust, a dust collector is generally used.

[0005] However, installing a dust collector in the target space only for analyzing the air quality in the target space is cumbersome and also incurs costs.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to easily collect dust from air for analyzing the air quality in a target space.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0007] A first aspect of this disclosure relates to a filter (50). This filter (50) is installed in an air passage (P) through which air (A) flows in an air conditioning device (1) for harmonizing the air (A) in a target space (S), and collects dust (D) from the air (A) for analyzing the air quality in the target space (S).

[0008] According to the first embodiment, dust (D) for analyzing the air quality in a target space (S) can be easily collected from the air (A).

[0009] A second aspect of this disclosure relates to a filter (50) according to the first aspect. This filter (50) is provided in the air passage (P) separately from an air purifying filter (21) that is provided in the air passage (P) and collects dust (D) from the air (A) in order to purify the air (A).

[0010] According to the second embodiment, in parallel with the purification of the air (A) by the air purification filter (21), dust (D) for air quality analysis can be collected from the air (A) by the filter (50).

[0011] A third aspect of this disclosure relates to a filter (50) according to the second aspect. This filter (50) is positioned upstream (Fa) of the air passage (P) from the air purification filter (21).

[0012] According to the third embodiment, dust (D) is collected by the filter (50) before it is collected by the air purification filter (21). Since the filter (50) can collect a large amount of dust (D), it is advantageous for analyzing air quality.

[0013] A fourth aspect of this disclosure relates to a filter (50) according to the third aspect. This filter (50) is provided at the intake port (15) of the air passage (P) that is exposed to the target space (S).

[0014] According to the fourth aspect, it becomes easier for the user to access the filter (50).

[0015] A fifth aspect of this disclosure relates to a filter (50) according to the fourth aspect. This filter (50) includes a filter body (52) for collecting dust (D) from the air (A), and a detachable part (51) for attaching and detaching the filter body (52) to the intake port (15).

[0016] According to the fifth aspect, the filter (50) can be easily attached to and removed from the intake port (15).

[0017] A sixth aspect of this disclosure relates to a filter (50) according to any one of the second to fifth aspects. This filter (50) has a coarser mesh (M) than the air purification filter (21).

[0018] According to the sixth embodiment, dust (D) for analyzing air quality is collected by a coarse mesh filter (50) and dust (D) for purifying air (A) is collected by a fine mesh air purification filter (21). The filter (50) and the air purification filter (21) can be used interchangeably.

[0019] A seventh aspect of this disclosure relates to a filter (50) according to any one of the first to sixth aspects. The filter (50) is made of metal or resin.

[0020] According to the seventh aspect, the filter (50) is made easier to wash with water.

[0021] An eighth aspect of this disclosure relates to a filter (50) relating to any one of the first to seven aspects. This filter (50) has an identifier (53).

[0022] According to the eighth aspect, the filter (50) can be identified by an identifier (53).

[0023] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an air conditioner (1). This air conditioner (1) comprises the filter (50) according to any one of the second to sixth aspects, and the air cleaning filter (21).

[0024] A tenth aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an analysis method. In this analysis method, dust (D) collected by a filter (50) provided in an air passage (P) through which air (A) flows in an air conditioner (1) for conditioning air (A) in a target space (S) is sampled, and the air quality in the target space (S) is analyzed.

[0025] An eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is directed to the analysis method according to the tenth aspect. This analysis method comprises a first step, a second step, and a third step, the filter (50) has an identifier (53) for identifying the filter (50), the identifier (53) is associated with location information (I) relating to the installation location of the filter (50), in the first step, the location information (I) is acquired from the identifier (53), in the second step, air quality information (J) relating to the air quality analyzed from the dust (D) sampled by the filter (50) is acquired, and in the third step, the risk of the air quality at the installation location of the filter (50) is determined based on the location information (I) and the air quality information (J).

[0026] A twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is directed to the analysis method according to the eleventh aspect. In this analysis method, the filter (50) includes a first filter (50A) and a second filter (50B), the identifier (53) includes a first identifier (53A) provided on the first filter (50A) and a second identifier (53B) provided on the second filter (50B), the first identifier (53A) is associated with first location information (IA) as the location information (I) relating to the installation location of the first filter (50A), the second identifier (53B) is associated with second location information (IB) as the location information (I) relating to the installation location of the second filter (50B), the air quality information (J) includes first air quality information (JA) relating to the air quality analyzed from the dust (D) collected by the first filter (50A), and second air quality information (JB) relating to the air quality analyzed from the dust (D) collected by the second filter (50B), in the first step, the first location information (IA) is acquired from the first identifier (53A), and the second location information (IB) is acquired from the second identifier (53B), in the second step, the first air quality information (JA) relating to the air quality analyzed from the dust (D) collected by the first filter (50A) is acquired, and the second air quality information (JB) relating to the air quality analyzed from the dust (D) collected by the second filter (50B) is acquired, in the third step, the risk of the air quality at the installation location of the first filter (50A) is determined based on the first location information (IA) and the first air quality information (JA), and the risk of the air quality at the installation location of the second filter (50B) is determined based on the second location information (IB) and the second air quality information (JB). [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the air cleaning device (1). [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of the air cleaning device (1) as viewed from the front side. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the interior of the air cleaning device (1) as viewed from the right side. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the analytical filter (50) from the front. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the analytical filter (50) viewed from the right. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the analytical filter (50) viewed from the left. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a comparison of the mesh size (M) of the analytical filter (50) and the air purification filter (21). [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the flow chart for determining the air quality risk at each installation location of the analytical filter (50). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Since the drawings are for conceptual explanation of this disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding.

[0029] (Air purifier) Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the air purifier (1). Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the inside of the air purifier (1) as seen from the front. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the inside of the air purifier (1) as seen from the right. In the following explanation, terms such as "up," "down," "front," "back," "right," and "left" will, in principle, refer to the direction indicated by the arrows in Figure 1.

[0030] The air purifier (1) is an example of an air conditioning system. The air purifier (1) is located in an indoor space (S). The indoor space (S) is an example of a target space. The air purifier (1) is there to harmonize the air (A) in the indoor space (S). "Harmony" is interpreted broadly and includes temperature control, humidity control, air purification, and ventilation. In this example, the air purifier (1) is there to purify the air (A) in the indoor space (S). The air purifier (1) may also humidify the air (A) in the indoor space (S).

[0031] The air purifier (1) comprises a casing (10), an air purification unit (20), a fan unit (30), a humidification unit (40), and an analytical filter (50).

[0032] (Casing) As shown in Figure 1, the casing (10) is formed in the shape of a hollow box. The casing (10) is formed in the shape of a vertically elongated rectangular parallelepiped. In this example, the casing (10) is made of resin. The casing (10) has a top plate (11a), a bottom plate (11b), a front plate (11c), a rear plate (11d), a right plate (11e), and a left plate (11f).

[0033] An air outlet (12) is formed in the top plate (11a). The air outlet (12) is rectangular in shape. The air outlet (12) is located slightly towards the rear of the top plate (11a). Two flaps (13) are provided in the air outlet (12). The flaps (13) are plate-shaped and extend across both the left and right ends of the air outlet (12). The flaps (13) open and close the air outlet (12) and adjust the direction of the air (A) being blown out.

[0034] A control panel (14) is provided on the top panel (11a). The control panel (14) is located towards the front of the top panel (11a). By operating the control panel (14), the user can input the operating mode and various settings of the air purifier (1).

[0035] A first intake port (15A) is formed on the right plate (11e). The first intake port (15A) is square in shape. The first intake port (15A) is formed at the bottom of the right plate (11e). An opening / closing lid (16) is provided on the top of the right plate (11e). The opening / closing lid (16) opens and closes an access port (17). The access port (17) is for accessing the tank (41) of the humidification unit (40). The opening / closing lid (16) is removable from the casing (10). A pull-out opening (16a) is formed on the top of the opening / closing lid (16). The user places their hand on the pull-out opening (16a) and removes the opening / closing lid (16).

[0036] A second suction port (15B) is formed on the left plate (11f). The second suction port (15B) is square in shape. The second suction port (15B) is formed at the bottom of the left plate (11f).

[0037] A third suction port (15C) is formed at the lower end of the front plate (11c). The third suction port (15C) extends horizontally across both the left and right ends of the casing (10). Hereafter, unless otherwise necessary, the first suction port (15A), the second suction port (15B), and the third suction port (15C) may be referred to as the suction port (15).

[0038] (Air passage) As shown in Figure 2, an air passage (P) is formed in the air purifier (1). Air (A) flows through the air passage (P). In the following description, the upstream and downstream sides in the direction of air (A) flow in the air passage (P) may be simply referred to as the upstream side (Fa) and the downstream side (Fb).

[0039] The air passage (P) has an inlet (15) (first inlet (15A), second inlet (15B), and third inlet (15C)) and a outlet (12). The inlet (15) constitutes the inlet end of the air passage (P). The outlet (12) constitutes the outlet end of the air passage (P). The inside of the casing (10) constitutes the middle part of the air passage (P).

[0040] The intake port (15) and outlet port (12) in the air passage (P) are exposed to the outside of the casing (10). The intake port (15) and outlet port (12) in the air passage (P) are exposed to the indoor space (S).

[0041] (Air purifying unit) The air purification unit (20) is located inside the casing (10). The air purification unit (20) is located at the bottom of the air passage (P). The air purification unit (20) purifies the air (A).

[0042] The air purification unit (20) purifies the air (A) drawn in from the intake ports (15) (first intake port (15A), second intake port (15B), and third intake port (15C)). The air purification unit (20) has a pre-filter (21a), a HEPA filter (21b), and a deodorizing filter (21c) arranged in order from the upstream side (Fa) to the downstream side (Fb) of the air passage (P).

[0043] In the following, unless otherwise specified, the pre-filter (21a), HEPA filter (21b), and deodorizing filter (21c) may be referred to as the air purification filter (21). The air purification unit (20) of the air purification device (1) is equipped with the air purification filter (21). The air purification filter (21) is installed in the air passage (P) of the air purification device (1). The air purification filter (21) collects dust (D) from the air (A) in order to purify the air (A) in the indoor space (S).

[0044] There are two pre-filters (21a), which are provided at the first inlet (15A) and the second inlet (15B) of the casing (10). The pre-filters (21a) are formed in a plate shape with their thickness direction corresponding to the horizontal direction. The pre-filters (21a) are fitted into the inner edges of the first inlet (15A) and the second inlet (15B). The pre-filters (21a) capture relatively large dust particles (D) in the air (A).

[0045] There are two HEPA filters (21b), and they are located downstream (Fb) of the pre-filter (21a) inside the casing (10). The HEPA filters (21b) are positioned between the pre-filter (21a) and the deodorizing filter (21c). The HEPA filters (21b) are formed in a plate shape, with their thickness direction corresponding to the horizontal direction. The HEPA filters (21b) capture dust (D) in the air (A) by electrostatic force.

[0046] There are two deodorizing filters (21c), and they are located downstream (Fb) of the HEPA filter (21b) inside the casing (10). The deodorizing filters (21c) are positioned between the HEPA filter (21b) and the fan unit (30) described later. The deodorizing filters (21c) are formed in a plate shape, with their thickness direction corresponding to the horizontal direction. The deodorizing filters (21c) capture dust (D) in the air (A) by adsorption, particularly harmful substances and odorous substances. The deodorizing filters (21c) consist of a base material and an adsorbent such as activated carbon supported on the base material.

[0047] (Fan unit) The fan unit (30) is located inside the casing (10). The fan unit (30) is located downstream of the deodorizing filter (21c) of the air purification unit (20) in the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) transports the air (A) in the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) is a centrifugal fan. The fan unit (30) is a double-inlet type, with inlet sections formed at both ends in the axial direction of its drive shaft (the rotation axis of the impeller). The outlet of the fan unit (30) faces upward.

[0048] When the fan unit (30) is operated, the air (A) in the indoor space (S) is drawn into the air passage (P) through the intake ports (15) (first intake port (15A), second intake port (15B), and third intake port (15C)), flows through the air passage (P), and is then blown out into the indoor space (S) through the outlet port (12).

[0049] (Humidifying unit) The humidifying unit (40) is located inside the casing (10). The humidifying unit (40) is located above the air passage (P). The humidifying unit (40) is located downstream of the fan unit (30) in the air passage (P). The humidifying unit (40) is located between the outlet of the fan unit (30) and the outlet (12) of the casing (10). The humidifying unit (40) humidifies the air (A) that has been purified by the air purification unit (20). The humidifying unit (40) adds water to the air (A) flowing through the air passage (P).

[0050] As shown in Figure 3, the humidification unit (40) includes a tank (41), a water tray (42), a humidification rotor (43), a rotating shaft (44), and a water absorption member (45).

[0051] The tank (41) is a container for storing water for humidification. The tank (41) can be inserted into and removed from the casing (10) through the access port (17) described above. The water tray (42) is a container with an open top. The water tray (42) has a first tray section (42a) located below the tank (41) and a second tray section (42b) located below the humidification rotor (43). The first tray section (42a) and the second tray section (42b) communicate with each other through a connecting passage (not shown in the diagram).

[0052] The humidifying rotor (43) is rotatably supported on the second tray portion (42b) of the water tray (42) by a rotating shaft (44). The humidifying rotor (43) rotates relative to the second tray portion (42b) of the water tray (42) by a drive mechanism (not shown). A water-absorbing member (45) is provided inside the humidifying rotor (43). The water-absorbing member (45) is made of a resin material that has water absorption and air permeability. The water-absorbing member (45) absorbs water.

[0053] The water stored in the tank (41) is collected in the water tray (42). The water is supplied from the tank (41) to the first tray section (42a) of the water tray (42), then through a connecting passage to the second tray section (42b) of the water tray (42), and finally supplied to the water-absorbing member (45) of the humidifying rotor (43). The water absorbed by the water-absorbing member (45) is added to the air (A). The air (A) is then humidified.

[0054] In the air passage (P), the air (A) humidified by the water-absorbing member (45) of the humidification unit (40) is blown out into the indoor space (S) through the outlet (12) of the casing (10).

[0055] (Analysis filter) Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the analytical filter (50) from the front. Figure 5 shows a view of the analytical filter (50) from the right (view of arrow V). Figure 6 shows a view of the analytical filter (50) from the left (view of arrow VI). In Figure 1, the analytical filter (50) is shown by a dashed line. In the following explanation, the case in which the analytical filter (50) is attached to the first suction port (15A) of the suction port (15) is given as an example, and the first suction port (15A) may be simply referred to as the suction port (15).

[0056] As shown in Figure 4, the analytical filter (50) is installed in the air passage (P). The analytical filter (50) is installed in the air passage (P) separately from the air purification filter (21).

[0057] The analytical filter (50) is positioned upstream (Fa) of the air purification filter (21) in the air passage (P). More specifically, the analytical filter (50) is positioned upstream (Fa) of the pre-filter (21a) in the air passage (P).

[0058] Here, the intake port (15) in the air passage (P) is exposed to the indoor space (S). The analytical filter (50) is provided at the intake port (15) of the air passage (P). Specifically, the analytical filter (50) is provided at the first intake port (15A) of the air passage (P) (provided on the right plate (11e) of the casing (10)). The analytical filter (50) is attached to the right plate (11e) of the casing (10) so as to cover the first intake port (15A).

[0059] Here, the intake port (15) is formed in a square shape. The analytical filter (50) is formed in a plate shape whose thickness direction corresponds to the direction of air (A) flow. The analytical filter (50) is formed in a square shape that is slightly larger than the intake port (15).

[0060] The analytical filter (50) is made of metal or resin. The analytical filter (50) has a detachable part (51) and a filter body (52). In this example, the detachable part (51) is made of resin. For example, the detachable part (51) is made of synthetic resin. The detachable part (51) may be made of the same resin as the casing (10). The filter body (52) is made of metal.

[0061] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the attachment / detachment part (51) is formed in the shape of a rectangular frame. The attachment / detachment part (51) is hollow. The outer diameter of the attachment / detachment part (51) is larger than the diameter of the suction port (15). The inner diameter of the attachment / detachment part (51) is approximately the same as the diameter of the suction port (15).

[0062] The detachable part (51) has a front surface (51a) and a back surface (51b). The front surface (51a) faces the interior space (S). The back surface (51b) faces the exterior surface of the casing (10). Specifically, the front surface (51a) faces to the right and faces the interior space (S). The back surface (51b) faces to the left and faces the exterior surface of the right plate (11e) of the casing (10) (where the first suction port (15A) is provided).

[0063] An adhesive material (51c) is provided on the back surface (51b) of the attachment / detachment part (51). In this example, the adhesive material (51c) is double-sided tape.

[0064] The filter body (52) is fixed to the attachment / detachment part (51). The filter body (52) is positioned inside (hollow part) the frame-shaped attachment / detachment part (51). The filter body (52) is fitted into the inner edge of the frame-shaped attachment / detachment part (51). The filter body (52) is made of a mesh-like wire mesh.

[0065] The filter body (52) is formed in a rectangular shape. The outer diameter of the filter body (52) is approximately the same as the diameter of the intake port (15). The surface (52a) of the filter body (52) faces the indoor space (S). The back surface (52b) of the filter body (52) faces the intake port (15). The back surface (52b) of the filter body (52) faces the pre-filter (21a) (which is fitted into the inner edge of the intake port (15A)).

[0066] Specifically, the front surface (52a) of the filter body (52) faces to the right, facing the indoor space (S). The back surface (52b) of the filter body (52) faces to the left, facing the first intake port (15A). The back surface (52b) of the filter body (52) faces the pre-filter (21a) (which is fitted into the inner edge of the first intake port (15A)).

[0067] When the back surface (51b) of the attachment part (51) is attached to the outer surface of the casing (10) with adhesive (51c), the filter body (52) is attached to the intake port (15). When the back surface (51b) of the attachment part (51) is removed from the outer surface of the casing (10), the filter body (52) is removed from the intake port (15).

[0068] Specifically, when the back surface (51b) of the detachable part (51) is attached to the outer surface of the right plate (11e) of the casing (10) with adhesive (51c), the filter body (52) is attached to the first suction port (15A). When the back surface (51b) of the detachable part (51) is removed from the outer surface of the right plate (11e) of the casing (10), the filter body (52) is removed from the first suction port (15A).

[0069] As shown by the black arrows in Figure 4, the attachment / detachment part (51) attaches and detaches the filter body (52) to the suction port (15).

[0070] The filter body (52) of the analytical filter (50) collects dust (D) from the air (A). Specifically, the filter body (52) of the analytical filter (50) collects dust (D) from the air (A) just before it is drawn from the indoor space (S) into the intake port (15) (in this example, the first intake port (15A)) of the air passage (P).

[0071] The analytical filter (50) collects dust (D) from the air (A) for analyzing the air quality in the indoor space (S).

[0072] Air quality refers to the quality of the air (A) inside a building. In this example, air quality refers to the quality of the air (A) in the indoor space (S). Dust (D) contains various factors, such as bacteria, viruses, pollen, mites, mold, and others. By identifying these factors contained in the dust (D), air quality can be evaluated.

[0073] The analytical filter (50) is attached to the intake port (15) of the air passage (P) in the air purifier (1) for a predetermined period (for example, one week). The air purifier (1) is used normally for the predetermined period (it may be started and stopped). Dust (D) in the indoor space (S) is collected in the analytical filter (50) from the air (A) over the predetermined period. After the predetermined period has elapsed, the analytical filter (50) is removed from the intake port (15) of the air passage (P) in the air purifier (1). Dust (D) is collected from the removed analytical filter (50). The collected dust (D) is placed in a bag and submitted to a testing laboratory. The testing laboratory tests the dust (D). The testing laboratory analyzes the air quality in the indoor space (S). The analysis results are provided to the user.

[0074] After collecting dust (D) from the removed analytical filter (50), the analytical filter (50) is washed. For example, the analytical filter (50) is washed with water. At this time, the adhesive (51c) (double-sided tape in this example) may also be removed from the attachment / detachment part (51) of the analytical filter (50). The washed analytical filter (50) is wiped with a cloth or the like and dried. The dried analytical filter (50) is attached to the intake port (15) of the air passage (P) in the air purifier (1). At this time, new adhesive (51c) (double-sided tape in this example) may be applied to the attachment / detachment part (51) of the analytical filter (50). The above procedure may be repeated thereafter.

[0075] The replacement frequency of the analytical filter (50) is shorter than that of the air purification filter (21). The replacement frequency of the analytical filter (50) is, for example, on a daily or weekly basis, such as every day or every week. The replacement frequency of the air purification filter (21) is, for example, on a monthly or yearly basis, such as every six months or every few years.

[0076] (mesh) Figure 7 shows a comparison of the mesh (M) of the analytical filter (50) and the air purification filter (21). As shown in Figure 7, the analytical filter (50) has a coarser mesh (M) than the air purification filter (21). The mesh (Ma) of the analytical filter (50) is coarser than the mesh (Mb) of the air purification filter (21). The mesh (Mb) of the air purification filter (21) is finer than the mesh (Ma) of the analytical filter (50).

[0077] (identifier) As shown in Figure 5, the analytical filter (50) has an identifier (53). The identifier (53) is provided on the analytical filter (50). More specifically, the identifier (53) is provided on the surface (51a) of the attachment / detachment part (51) of the analytical filter (50). Examples of the identifier (53) include a barcode, an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag, a QR code (registered trademark), and the like.

[0078] The identifier (53) is used to identify the analytical filter (50). The identifier (53) is used to read the identification information related to the analytical filter (50). The identification information is an ID (identification). The identification information identifies a specific analytical filter (50) from among multiple similar analytical filters (50).

[0079] (Analysis method) The analysis method according to this embodiment involves collecting dust (D) collected by an analytical filter (50) provided in an air passage (P) through which air (A) flows in an air purifier (1) for purifying the air (A) in an indoor space (S), and analyzing the air quality in the indoor space (S).

[0080] Figure 8 shows the flow chart for determining the air quality risk at each installation location of the analytical filter (50). In detail, as described above, the analytical filter (50) has an identifier (53) to identify the analytical filter (50). The identifier (53) is linked to location information (I) regarding the installation location of the analytical filter (50). The correspondence between the identifier (53) and location information (I) is stored in the memory of a computer or the like. The computer may be an external server. The computer may also be a mobile device such as a smartphone.

[0081] Location information (I) may include, for example, information on which of the multiple indoor spaces (S) the analytical filter (50) is installed in, or information on the location within the indoor space (S) where the analytical filter (50) is installed.

[0082] The analysis method comprises a first step, a second step, and a third step. The third step is performed after the first and second steps. The order in which the first and second steps are performed does not matter.

[0083] In the first step, location information (I) is obtained from the identifier (53). For example, if the identifier (53) is a barcode, the user reads the barcode (identifier (53)) with a barcode reader and inputs it into the computer. The computer outputs the location information (I) associated with the identifier (53).

[0084] In the second step, air quality information (J) is obtained from the dust (D) collected by the analytical filter (50) and analyzed. The air quality information (J) is provided to the user, for example, by the aforementioned testing institution (N).

[0085] In the third step, the air quality risk at the installation site of the analytical filter (50) is determined based on location information (I) and air quality information (J). For example, the user inputs location information (I) and air quality information (J) into a determination device (C). The determination device (C) is, for example, a computer. The determination device (C) may also be an external server. The determination device (C) may also be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone. The determination device (C) determines and outputs the air quality risk at the installation site of the analytical filter (50) based on location information (I) and air quality information (J). Examples of air quality risks include health damage caused by air quality and environmental pollution caused by air quality.

[0086] More specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the analytical filter (50) includes a first analytical filter (50A) and a second analytical filter (50B). The first analytical filter (50A) is an example of the first filter. The second analytical filter (50B) is an example of the second filter.

[0087] The identifier (53) includes a first identifier (53A) provided on the first analysis filter (50A) and a second identifier (53B) provided on the second analysis filter (50B). The first identifier (53A) is associated with first location information (IA) as location information (I) relating to the installation location of the first analysis filter (50A) (e.g., first installation location (LA)). The second identifier (53B) is associated with second location information (IB) as location information (I) relating to the installation location of the second analysis filter (50B) (e.g., second installation location (LB)).

[0088] The air quality information (J) includes first air quality information (JA) relating to the air quality analyzed from dust (D) collected by the first analytical filter (50A), and second air quality information (JB) relating to the air quality analyzed from dust (D) collected by the second analytical filter (50B).

[0089] In the first step, the first location information (IA) is obtained from the first identifier (53A), and the second location information (IB) is obtained from the second identifier (53B).

[0090] In the second step, first air quality information (JA) is obtained regarding the air quality analyzed from dust (D) collected by the first analytical filter (50A), and second air quality information (JB) is obtained regarding the air quality analyzed from dust (D) collected by the second analytical filter (50B).

[0091] In the third step, the risk of air quality at the installation location of the first analytical filter (50A) (e.g., the first installation location (LA)) is determined based on the first location information (IA) and the first air quality information (JA), and the risk of air quality at the installation location of the second analytical filter (50B) (e.g., the second installation location (LB)) is determined based on the second location information (IB) and the second air quality information (JB).

[0092] (Effects and Benefits) The analytical filter (50) allows for easy collection of dust (D) from the air (A) for analyzing the air quality in an indoor space (S).

[0093] For example, installing a dust collector in an indoor space (S) solely for the purpose of analyzing the air quality in that space is cumbersome and costly. By using an analytical filter (50) (integrated into the air purifier (1)), dust (D) for analyzing the air quality in the indoor space (S) can be collected without the need for a separate dust collector.

[0094] In parallel with the purification of the air (A) by the air purification filter (21), dust (D) for analyzing air quality can be collected from the air (A) by an analysis filter (50) (separate from the air purification filter (21)).

[0095] The analytical filter (50) is positioned upstream (Fa) of the air purification filter (21) in the air passage (P). The analytical filter (50) captures dust (D) before the air purification filter (21) captures it. The analytical filter (50) can capture a large amount of dust (D), which is advantageous for analyzing air quality.

[0096] The analytical filter (50) is installed at the intake port (15) of the air passage (P) that is exposed to the indoor space (S). This makes it easier for the user to access the analytical filter (50).

[0097] The analytical filter (50) has a filter body (52) that collects dust (D) from the air (A), and a detachable part (51) for attaching and detaching the filter body (52) to and from the intake port (15). This makes it easier to attach and detach the analytical filter (50) to and from the intake port (15).

[0098] Dust (D) for air quality analysis is collected by an analytical filter (50) with a coarse mesh (M) (mesh (Ma)), while dust (D) for air (A) purification is collected by an air purification filter (21) with a fine mesh (M) (mesh (Mb)). The analytical filter (50) and the air purification filter (21) can be used interchangeably.

[0099] The analytical filter (50) is made of metal or resin. This makes it easier to wash the analytical filter (50) with water.

[0100] The analytical filter (50) can be identified by the identifier (53).

[0101] The risk of air quality can be determined for each installation location of the analytical filter (50).

[0102] (Other embodiments) The analytical filter (50) may be attached to the second inlet (15B) or the third inlet (15C) instead of the first inlet (15A).

[0103] The analytical filter (50) may be provided at the outlet (12) in the air passage (P), or between the intake (15) and the outlet (12) in the air passage (P). The analytical filter (50) may be located downstream (Fb) of the air purification filter (21) in the air passage (P).

[0104] The analytical filter (50) may have a finer mesh (M) than the air purification filter (21).

[0105] The air conditioning device (1) is not limited to an air purifier for purifying the air (A) in a target space (S). The air conditioning device (1) is interpreted in a broad sense. The air conditioning device (1) may be, for example, an air conditioner (air conditioning device in the narrow sense) for controlling the temperature and humidity of a target space (S). The air conditioning device (1) may also be, for example, a ventilation device for ventilating the air (A) in a target space (S). The analytical filter (50) may be provided, for example, in the exhaust duct (air passage (P)) of the ventilation device (air conditioning device (1)).

[0106] An air conditioning system in a broad sense (1) does not necessarily have to be equipped with an air purification filter (21).

[0107] In the above embodiment, the attachment / detachment part (51) is composed of a frame-shaped plate with an adhesive material (51c) provided on its back surface (51b), but is not limited to this. The attachment / detachment part (51) may be composed of, for example, screws, magnets, etc. The attachment / detachment part (51) may also be configured to be inserted into a rail provided on the air conditioning unit (1).

[0108] While embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that a variety of changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments described above may be combined or substituted as appropriate, as long as they do not impair the functions covered by this disclosure.

[0109] The designations "1st," "2nd," "3rd," etc., mentioned above are used to distinguish between the terms to which these designations are attached, and do not limit the number or order of those terms. [Industrial applicability]

[0110] As described above, this disclosure is useful for filters, air conditioning systems, and analytical methods. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0111] S Indoor space (target space) A air D Dust P air passage Fa upstream side M Mesh I. Location Information IA 1st Venue Information IB 2nd Venue Information J Air quality information JA Air Quality Information No. 1 JB 2nd air quality information 1. Air purifier (air conditioning system) 15 Inlet 21 Air purifying filters 50 analytical filters (filters) 50A First analytical filter (first filter) 50B Second analysis filter (second filter) 51 Detachable part 52 Filter body 53 Identifiers 53A First Identifier 53B Second Identifier

Claims

1. A filter provided in an air passage (P) through which air (A) flows in an air conditioning device (1) for harmonizing the air (A) in a target space (S), and for collecting dust (D) from the air (A) for analyzing the air quality in the target space (S).

2. The filter according to claim 1, provided in the air passage (P) separately from the air purifying filter (21) provided in the air passage (P) and for collecting dust (D) from the air (A) in order to purify the air (A).

3. The filter according to claim 2, which is positioned upstream (Fa) of the air passage (P) from the air purification filter (21).

4. The filter according to claim 3, provided at the intake port (15) of the air passage (P) exposed to the target space (S).

5. A filter body (52) that collects dust (D) from the air (A), The filter according to claim 4, further comprising a detachable part (51) for attaching and detaching the filter body (52) to and from the intake port (15).

6. The filter according to claim 2, wherein the mesh (M) is coarser than that of the air purifying filter (21).

7. The filter according to claim 1, which is made of metal or resin.

8. The filter according to claim 1, having an identifier (53).

9. A filter (50) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, An air conditioning system comprising the aforementioned air purification filter (21).

10. An analytical method for analyzing the air quality in a target space (S) by collecting dust (D) collected by a filter (50) provided in an air passage (P) through which air (A) flows in an air conditioning device (1) for harmonizing the air (A) in the target space (S).

11. It comprises a first step, a second step, and a third step, The filter (50) has an identifier (53) for identifying the filter (50), The identifier (53) is associated with location information (I) relating to the installation location of the filter (50), In the first step, the location information (I) is obtained from the identifier (53), In the second step, air quality information (J) relating to the air quality is obtained by analyzing the dust (D) collected by the filter (50). The analysis method according to claim 10, wherein the third step determines the risk of air quality at the installation site of the filter (50) based on the location information (I) and the air quality information (J).

12. The filter (50) includes a first filter (50A) and a second filter (50B), The identifier (53) includes a first identifier (53A) provided in the first filter (50A) and a second identifier (53B) provided in the second filter (50B). The first identifier (53A) is associated with the first location information (IA) as location information (I) relating to the installation location of the first filter (50A), The second identifier (53B) is associated with the second location information (IB) as location information (I) relating to the installation location of the second filter (50B), The air quality information (J) includes first air quality information (JA) relating to the air quality analyzed from the dust (D) collected by the first filter (50A), and second air quality information (JB) relating to the air quality analyzed from the dust (D) collected by the second filter (50B). In the first step, the first location information (IA) is obtained from the first identifier (53A), and the second location information (IB) is obtained from the second identifier (53B). In the second step, first air quality information (JA) relating to the air quality is obtained by analyzing the dust (D) collected by the first filter (50A), and second air quality information (JB) relating to the air quality is obtained by analyzing the dust (D) collected by the second filter (50B). The analysis method according to claim 11, wherein in the third step, the risk of air quality at the installation site of the first filter (50A) is determined based on the first location information (IA) and the first air quality information (JA), and the risk of air quality at the installation site of the second filter (50B) is determined based on the second location information (IB) and the second air quality information (JB).

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