Airflow generating device, airflow generating method, and airflow generating member

Abstract

The present invention provides an airflow generating device, an airflow generating method, and an airflow generating component that can relax the limitations on the range over which airflow can be applied. [Solution] An airflow generating device comprising: a vibrating member having a predetermined vibrating surface, the vibrating surface being capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating surface; and an airflow generating member having a gap that penetrates through its interior from the bottom surface to the tip, the bottom surface being positioned opposite the vibrating surface at a predetermined first distance, wherein the gap is a space formed between two wall surfaces that face each other at a predetermined second distance, and the shape of the opening at the tip is linear, with a width equal to the second distance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an airflow generation device, an airflow generation method, and an airflow generation member.

Background Art

[0002] Devices for transporting compressible fluids such as air are known.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a piezoelectric micro blower characterized by comprising: a vibration plate having a piezoelectric element; a case that fixes the periphery of the vibration plate and forms a blower chamber between itself and the vibration plate; a first opening provided in a wall portion of the case facing a central portion of the vibration plate; and a plurality of connecting portions provided on an outer peripheral portion of the case and substantially suppressing vibration propagation from the case to the outside, wherein a voltage of a predetermined frequency is applied to the piezoelectric element to drive the vibration plate in a bending mode, thereby discharging the compressible fluid from the first opening.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the invention described in Patent Document 1, the shape of the first opening through which the fluid is discharged is a circle with a diameter of approximately 0.6 mm, and the discharged fluid is a so-called axisymmetric jet. This poses a problem that the range over which the discharged fluid can be applied is greatly limited.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of such problems, and an object thereof is to provide an airflow generation device, an airflow generation method, and an airflow generation member that can alleviate the limitation on the range over which an airflow can be applied. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One invention for achieving the above objective is an airflow generating device comprising: a vibrating member having a predetermined vibrating surface, the vibrating surface being capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating surface; and an airflow generating member having a gap that penetrates through its interior from the bottom surface to the tip, the bottom surface being positioned opposite the vibrating surface at a predetermined first distance, wherein the gap is a space formed between two wall surfaces that face each other at a predetermined second distance, and the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear, with a width equal to the second distance.

[0008] Another invention for achieving the above objective is an airflow generating method comprising the steps of: positioning an airflow generating member having a gap penetrating its interior from its bottom to its tip, on a vibrating member having a predetermined vibrating surface and capable of vibrating the vibrating surface in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating surface, such that the bottom surface faces the vibrating surface at a predetermined first distance; and vibrating the vibrating surface, wherein the gap is a space formed between two wall surfaces facing each other at a predetermined second distance, and the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear in width equal to the second distance.

[0009] Another invention for achieving the above objective is an airflow generating member having a void that penetrates the interior from the bottom to the tip, comprising a main body portion having the void, and side portions formed at both ends of the main body portion and closing the void from both ends of the main body portion, wherein the void is a space formed between two opposing wall surfaces spaced at a predetermined interval, and the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear with a width equal to the interval. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an airflow generating device, an airflow generating method, and an airflow generating component that can relax the limitations on the range to which airflow can be applied. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram illustrating the airflow generation system 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view illustrating the airflow generator 2 of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view illustrating the airflow generating member 230 of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a side view illustrating the airflow generating member 230 of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating member 230 of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure illustrates the principle by which airflow is generated by the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1. [Figure 9] This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1. [Figure 10] This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1. [Figure 11] This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1. [Figure 12] This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1. [Figure 13] This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1. [Figure 14] This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1. [Figure 15] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generator 21 of modified example 1. [Figure 16] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generator 22 of modified example 2. [Figure 17] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generator 23 of modified example 3. [Figure 18] This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generator 24 of modified example 4. [Figure 19]This is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation device 25 of Modification 5. [Figure 20] This is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation device 26 of Modification 6. [Figure 21] This is a perspective view for explaining the airflow generation device 27 of Modification 7. [Figure 22] This is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation device 27 of Modification 7. [Figure 23] This is a perspective view for explaining the airflow generation device 28 of the second embodiment. [Figure 24] This is a side view for explaining the airflow generation member 238 of the second embodiment. [Figure 25] This is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation member 238 of the second embodiment. [Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0012] ==First Embodiment== <<Airflow Generation System 1>> The airflow generation system 1 of the present embodiment will be described. The airflow generation system 1 is a system for generating a flow (airflow) of a compressible fluid such as air using ultrasonic waves. In the present specification, "ultrasonic wave" refers to a sound wave that is not intended for hearing.

[0013] Figure 1 is a block diagram for explaining the airflow generation system 1. The airflow generation system 1 includes an airflow generation device 2, an oscillator 3, and a control device 4. Each of them will be described below.

[0014] <Airflow Generation Device 2> The airflow generation device 2 is a device for generating an airflow using ultrasonic waves.

[0015] Figure 2 is a perspective view for explaining the airflow generation device 2. In Figure 2, a predetermined orthogonal coordinate system consisting of an X-axis, a Y-axis and a Z-axis orthogonal to each other is shown. The orthogonal coordinate system herein is a coordinate system fixed to the airflow generation device 2 (details will be described later).

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the airflow generating device 2 of this embodiment comprises a vibrating unit 210 (omitted in Figure 2), an ultrasonic horn 220, and an airflow generating member 230. Each of these will be described below.

[0017] [Vibrating part 210] The vibration unit 210 is provided to convert the AC voltage from the oscillator 3 (described later) into ultrasonic vibrations. The ultrasonic vibrations converted in the vibration unit 210 are transmitted to the ultrasonic horn 220.

[0018] In this embodiment, the vibration unit 210 uses a so-called bolt-clamped Langevin type transducer (BLT) as a transducer (not shown) that converts the AC voltage from the oscillator 3 into ultrasonic vibrations.

[0019] The vibrating section 210 may further include a horn for amplifying the ultrasonic vibrations of the transducer. In this case, the ultrasonic vibrations amplified by the horn are transmitted to the ultrasonic horn 220.

[0020] [Ultrasonic Horn 220] The ultrasonic horn 220 is a metal tool designed to resonate at a predetermined resonant frequency. As will be described in detail later, the ultrasonic horn 220 generates a high sound pressure field in the air gap provided in the airflow generating member 230.

[0021] The ultrasonic horn 220 has a predetermined tip surface 220a. In this embodiment, the shape of the tip surface 220a is rectangular. As will be described in detail later, the shape of the tip surface 220a is designed to be equal to the shape of the bottom surface of the airflow generating member 230.

[0022] The ultrasonic horn 220 is capable of vibrating its tip surface 220a in a direction perpendicular to the tip surface 220a. In this embodiment, a Cartesian coordinate system is used in which the tip surface 220a is on a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis (XY plane). Therefore, the ultrasonic horn 220 is capable of vibrating its tip surface 220a in the direction of the Z-axis.

[0023] [Airflow generating member 230] The airflow generating member 230 is a member that generates an airflow directed outwards by a high sound pressure field generated in an internal void (described later).

[0024] Figures 3 to 5 are diagrams illustrating the airflow generating member 230. These figures show the same Cartesian coordinate system as shown in Figure 2. In other words, the Cartesian coordinate system shown in these figures is the coordinate system fixed to the airflow generating device 2 (airflow generating member 230).

[0025] • Overview of the airflow generating member 230 First, we will explain the outline of the airflow generating member 230 using Figure 3.

[0026] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating the outline of the airflow generating member 230. The airflow generating member 230 has a bottom surface S11. The airflow generating member 230 further has a tip T1 at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S11.

[0027] The surface between the bottom surface S11 and the tip T1 of the airflow generating member 230 is the side surface S12. In this embodiment, the side surface S12 is composed of eight planes S121 to S128 (some reference numerals are omitted in Figure 3).

[0028] As will be described in more detail later, the side surface S12 has rectangular side surfaces formed by planes S121, S122, S123 and S124, trapezoidal planes S125 and S127, and triangular planes S126 and S128, with planes S125 to S128 forming inclined surfaces that slope toward the tip T1.

[0029] The airflow generating member 230 has a tapered shape towards its tip T1. In other words, the airflow generating member 230 has a pointed shape at its tip T1.

[0030] The airflow generating member 230 is provided with a gap G1. The gap G1 is a space that penetrates the interior of the airflow generating member 230 from the bottom surface S11 to the tip T1.

[0031] The void G1 is a slit-shaped space. In other words, the void G1 is a space formed between two opposing wall surfaces S13 and S14 separated by a predetermined distance D2. Therefore, the shape of the opening on the tip T1 side of the void G1 is linear, with a width equal to the distance D2. Similarly, the shape of the opening on the bottom surface S11 side of the void G1 is also linear, with a width equal to the distance D2.

[0032] In this embodiment, the void G1 is a closed space on the side surface S12. In other words, the opening of the void G1 is provided only on the bottom surface S11 and the tip T1, and not on the side surface S12.

[0033] The material used for the airflow generating member 230 is metal. In this embodiment, aluminum is used as the material for the airflow generating member 230.

[0034] • Details of the airflow generating component 230 The details of the airflow generating member 230, particularly its shape, will be explained below using Figures 4 and 5.

[0035] Figure 4 is a side view illustrating the airflow generating member 230. In Figure 4, (a) shows a side view as viewed from the positive Z-axis direction. (b) shows a side view as viewed from the positive X-axis direction. (c) shows a side view as viewed from the positive Y-axis direction.

[0036] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating member 230. Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view in a plane perpendicular to the Y-axis and passing through the main body portion 230a (described later).

[0037] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, in the Cartesian coordinate system used in this embodiment, the base plane S11 is a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis. The base plane S11 is rectangular in shape with a longitudinal direction. In the Cartesian coordinate system used in this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the base plane S11 coincides with the direction of the Y-axis.

[0038] As shown in Figure 4, the airflow generating member 230 has a main body 230a and side parts 230b and 230c. Each of these will be described below.

[0039] The main body portion 230a is the part in which the void G1 is provided. The main body portion 230a has a width direction, a length direction, and a height direction.

[0040] In the Cartesian coordinate system used in this embodiment, the width direction of the main body 230a coincides with the X-axis direction (Figure 4(a)). The longitudinal direction of the main body 230a coincides with the Y-axis direction (Figure 4(b)). The height direction of the main body 230a coincides with the Z-axis direction (Figure 4(b)).

[0041] The width, length, and height of the main body 230a are defined as W1, L1, and H1, respectively (Figure 4). The optimal values ​​for these dimensions are determined according to the vibration frequency of the tip surface 220a.

[0042] In this embodiment, the vibration frequency of the tip surface 220a is set to 19 kHz. In this case, W1 is 12 mm, L1 is 60 mm, and H1 is 11.5 mm.

[0043] As can be seen from the cross-sectional view in Figure 5, the main body 230a has a cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the Y axis (ZX plane) that tapers towards the tip T1.

[0044] First, the cross-sectional shape of the main body 230a will be explained in detail using Figure 5. Of the side surfaces S12, planes S121 and S123 are adjacent to the bottom surface S11 and are planes perpendicular to the Y-axis (i.e., planes perpendicular to the bottom surface S11).

[0045] Of the side surface S12, planes S125 and S127 are adjacent to planes S121 and S123, respectively. Planes S125 and S127 are parallel to the Y-axis and are inclined toward the tip T1 from planes S121 and S123, respectively.

[0046] Planes S125 and S127 are inclined relative to each other. Specifically, in the cross-sectional view of Figure 5, the angle θ on the inside of the airflow generating member 230 among the angles formed by planes S125 and S127 is preferably less than 180 degrees. More preferably, the angle θ is 90 degrees or less. In this embodiment, the angle θ is approximately 85 degrees.

[0047] In this context, when we say that one of the two planes is "inclined" with respect to the other, it means that the two planes are not parallel to each other.

[0048] Next, the void G1 provided in the main body 230a will be described in detail with reference to Figure 5. In this embodiment, the void G1 penetrates the interior of the airflow generating member 230 in the direction of the Z axis (that is, in the direction perpendicular to the bottom surface S11). The void G1 is translationally symmetric with respect to the Z axis.

[0049] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the void G1 in a plane perpendicular to the Y-axis (Figure 5) is uniform along the Y-axis.

[0050] The width of the gap G1 in the X-axis direction is equal to the spacing D2 between the wall surfaces S13 and S14. In this embodiment, the spacing D2 is 0.5 mm.

[0051] The two wall surfaces S13 and S14 are both planes perpendicular to the X-axis. The two wall surfaces S13 and S14 face each other with a distance D2 in the direction of the X-axis.

[0052] Furthermore, the width of the gap G1 in the Y-axis direction is equal to the length L1 of the main body 230a in the longitudinal direction (Figures 4(a), (b)), and length L1 is greater than the spacing D2.

[0053] Returning to Figure 4, the side portions 230b and 230c are formed at both ends of the main body portion 230a in the longitudinal direction. The side portions 230b and 230c close the gap G1 from the direction of the Y axis.

[0054] Furthermore, the side portions 230b and 230c are formed with the same shape. The side portion 230b (side portion 230c) has a plane S124 (plane S122) adjacent to the bottom surface S11 and perpendicular to the Y axis (a plane perpendicular to the bottom surface S11), and a plane S128 (plane S126) adjacent to plane S124 (plane S122) and inclined toward the tip T1.

[0055] The side portions 230b and 230c are of an arbitrary configuration and do not necessarily have to be formed. In other words, the airflow generating member 230 may consist only of the main body portion 230a. In this case, the airflow generating member 230 is formed from two separate parts. These two parts are the part having a wall surface S13 and the part having a wall surface S14.

[0056] In this embodiment, the airflow generating member 230 is formed integrally with a main body portion 230a and side portions 230b and 230c. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the airflow generating member 230 may also be formed by joining separately formed main body portion 230a and side portions 230b and 230c.

[0057] • Relationship with the ultrasonic horn 220 The relationship between the airflow generating member 230 and the ultrasonic horn 220 will now be explained. The airflow generating member 230 is positioned such that its bottom surface S11 faces the tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 at a predetermined distance.

[0058] The airflow generating member 230 and the ultrasonic horn 220 are supported by separate support members (not shown). The airflow generating member 230 and the ultrasonic horn 220 are adjusted by the support members so that their relative positions are in a desired relationship.

[0059] The airflow generating member 230 is positioned such that its bottom surface S11 faces the tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 with a gap D1 in the Z-axis direction (Figures 2 and 5). In this embodiment, the gap D1 is 0.1 mm.

[0060] In this embodiment, the bottom surface S11 faces the entire front surface 220a. In other words, the outer shape of the bottom surface S11 of the airflow generating member 230 and the outer shape of the front surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 are designed to be equal to each other.

[0061] Furthermore, the bottom surface S11 may face the front surface 220a over at least a portion of it.

[0062] The airflow generating device 2 has been described above. According to the airflow generating device 2, an airflow can be generated from the vicinity of the opening on the tip T1 side of the air gap G1 toward the outside of the airflow generating member 230 (particularly in the Z-axis direction) (details will be described later).

[0063] Here, since the gap G1 is slit-shaped, the airflow generated by the airflow generator 2 is ejected from a thick, linear outlet. The airflow ejected from the outlet can reach a linear region and its vicinity on any two-dimensional plane (not limited to the XY plane, but including uneven surfaces). Such an airflow may be referred to as a "linear airflow" below.

[0064] In this specification, the X-axis corresponds to the "third axis," the Y-axis to the "second axis," and the Z-axis to the "first axis." Furthermore, interval D1 corresponds to the "first interval," and interval D2 corresponds to the "second interval."

[0065] Furthermore, the ultrasonic horn 220 is an example of a "vibrating member." The tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 corresponds to the "vibrating surface" of the vibrating member.

[0066] The "vibrating member" can be any member whose vibrating surface can vibrate in a direction perpendicular to the "vibrating surface". The vibrating member is not limited to an ultrasonic horn, but can also be piezoelectric material, magnetostrictive material, or a member from which vibration is transmitted from such material.

[0067] <Oscillator 3> Oscillator 3 is a device for generating ultrasonic vibrations in the ultrasonic horn 220. Specifically, oscillator 3 generates ultrasonic vibrations in the ultrasonic horn 220 by applying an AC voltage to the vibration section 210.

[0068] Furthermore, the oscillator 3 controls the frequency of ultrasonic vibrations in the ultrasonic horn 220. Specifically, the oscillator 3 controls the frequency of ultrasonic vibrations in the composite of the vibrating section 210 and the ultrasonic horn 220 so that it becomes the resonant frequency unique to the composite.

[0069] <Control device 4> The control device 4 controls the oscillator 3 by executing a predetermined control program.

[0070] According to the airflow generation system 1 described above, linear airflow can be generated. The principle by which such linear airflow is generated will be explained in detail below.

[0071] <<The principle by which airflow is generated>> The principle by which linear airflow is generated by the airflow generation system 1 described above will now be explained. The principle by which so-called "axially symmetric airflow" or "axially symmetric jet" is generated using ultrasound is described in "Kohei Aono (2023). A study on the jumping phenomenon of objects and the ejection phenomenon of fluids in a near-field sound, Doctoral dissertation, Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology."

[0072] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the principle by which airflow is generated by the airflow generation system 1, and shows a cross-sectional view similar to that of Figure 5. Figure 6 shows the state in which the ultrasonic horn 220 is vibrated in the airflow generation system 1 described above.

[0073] When the ultrasonic horn 220 vibrates, the tip surface 220a vibrates in the Z-axis direction. When the tip surface 220a vibrates, an air pressure (sound pressure) that periodically fluctuates between positive and negative pressure is generated in the space between the tip surface 220a and the bottom surface S11.

[0074] As a result, sound pressure enters the air gap G1 from the opening on the bottom surface S11 side of the air gap G1. The sound pressure that enters the air gap G1 from the opening on the bottom surface S11 side propagates in the direction toward the tip T1 (the negative direction of the Z axis).

[0075] In the air gap G1, sound pressure traveling toward the tip T1 is partially released to the outside at the opening of the air gap G1 on the tip T1 side, while the remainder is reflected and travels toward the bottom surface S11 (the positive direction of the Z axis).

[0076] In other words, in the gap G1, the sound pressure directed towards the tip T1 and the sound pressure directed towards the bottom surface S11 interfere with each other. In the sound pressure distribution (sound pressure field) formed at this time, positive pressures reinforce each other, and negative pressures reinforce each other, resulting in a region exhibiting high sound pressure (high sound pressure field).

[0077] The location and peak sound pressure values ​​of the high-sound-pressure field are determined in the air gap G1 according to the layout of the air gap G1 (spacing D2, length between the openings at both ends, shape of the path between the openings at both ends, etc.).

[0078] When a high sound pressure field is generated, the nonlinear effects of sound pressure become more pronounced. In other words, as sound pressure increases, a non-periodic, unidirectional flow of air and pressure is created.

[0079] When a high sound pressure field is generated in the air gap G1, the difference between the sound pressure near the opening on the tip T1 side and the sound pressure outside the air gap G1 becomes large. This generates a force that pushes the air outwards from the air gap G1 (in the negative direction of the Z axis), creating an airflow that moves outwards from the air gap G1, drawing in the air near the opening on the tip T1 side.

[0080] Therefore, it is preferable that the shape of the vicinity of the tip T1 of the airflow generating member 230 is such that it is easy to draw in air near the opening on the tip T1 side, because this can increase the flow rate of the generated airflow.

[0081] Specifically, in the region near the opening at the tip T1, it is preferable that the area occupied by the airflow generating member 230 is small, that is, that the area occupied by the empty space is large. For this reason, in this embodiment, the airflow generating member 230 is made tapered towards the tip T1.

[0082] Furthermore, the larger the gap D1, the lower the flow velocity of the resulting airflow. However, if the gap D1 is too small, the effect of the inclination between the bottom surface S11 and the front surface 220a becomes more pronounced, and the flow velocity near the opening on the front T1 side tends to become non-uniform.

[0083] Furthermore, the larger the amplitude of vibration of the tip surface 220a, the greater the flow velocity of the resulting airflow. However, it is necessary to prevent the tip surface 220a from coming into contact with the bottom surface S11 due to the vibration of the tip surface 220a. Considering the above, the spacing D1 is preferably between 100 μm and 300 μm.

[0084] Furthermore, the larger the gap D2, the lower the sound pressure inside the gap G1, and the lower the velocity of the resulting airflow. However, if the gap D2 is too small, the sound pressure incident on the gap G1 from the tip surface 220a decreases, resulting in a lower sound pressure inside the gap G1. Considering the above, a gap D2 in the range of 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm is preferable.

[0085] <<Airflow Generation Method>> A method for generating airflow using the airflow generation system 1 will be described.

[0086] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the airflow generation method of this embodiment. The airflow generation method includes step ST10 and step ST20. Each of these steps will be described in turn below.

[0087] <Step ST10> In step ST10, the operator positions the airflow generating member 230 relative to the ultrasonic horn 220 such that its bottom surface S11 faces the tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 at a predetermined distance D1 (as shown in Figure 2).

[0088] In this step, the worker may manually adjust the support member that supports the ultrasonic horn 220 and the airflow generating member 230 to set the distance between the bottom surface S11 and the front surface 220a to a distance D1. <Step ST20> In step ST20, the airflow generation system 1 vibrates the tip surface 220a. In this step, the control device 4 (Figure 1) controls the oscillator 3 to apply an AC voltage to the vibrating section 210, thereby generating ultrasonic vibrations in the ultrasonic horn 220.

[0089] Once the above process is executed, a linear airflow is generated outward from the vicinity of the tip T1 of the airflow generating member 230 (Figure 6). Further details are as described above and will not be explained here.

[0090] <<Application Example 1 of Airflow Generation System 1>> As an example of the application of the airflow generation system 1, we will describe the flattening of cosmetic cream.

[0091] The term "flattening of cosmetic cream" as described below refers to the process performed in a cosmetics factory between filling the manufactured cosmetic cream contents into designated containers and sealing them with designated lids. Hereafter, this process may be simply referred to as "flattening."

[0092] Immediately after being filled into a container, cosmetic cream, due to its viscosity, tends to have an uneven surface rather than a level one. If there are protrusions on the surface that extend beyond the edge of the container, the cosmetic cream may adhere to the underside of the lid when the container is sealed.

[0093] The process of flattening the cosmetic cream, as described below, is a procedure to prevent the cosmetic cream from adhering to the underside of the lid when sealing the container with the lid.

[0094] <Filling in Cosmetic Cream C> Figures 8 to 11 are diagrams illustrating application examples of the airflow generation system 1, specifically illustrating the filling of cosmetic cream C. These diagrams show the Cartesian coordinate system used in the above explanation.

[0095] In these figures, (a) shows the object viewed from the direction of the Y-axis, and (b) shows the same object viewed from the direction of the X-axis.

[0096] Figure 8 shows the state before a filling device (not shown) fills a predetermined container B with cosmetic cream C via a nozzle N. Container B is cylindrical with a bottom and an open top, and the cosmetic cream C is filled through this opening. Container B is placed on a horizontal surface.

[0097] Figure 9 shows the state immediately after the filling device begins filling with cosmetic cream C. The cosmetic cream C inside container B is shown by a dotted line. The shape of the liquid surface inside container B is deviated from the horizontal plane, with the liquid surface being higher closer to the nozzle.

[0098] Figure 10 shows the state just before the filling device finishes filling the cosmetic cream C. Near the opening edge of container B, the shape of the liquid surface deviates from the horizontal plane, with the liquid surface being higher closer to the nozzle N.

[0099] Figure 11 shows the state immediately after the filling device has finished filling the cosmetic cream C. Near the opening edge of container B, the shape of the liquid surface is deviated from the horizontal plane, and the part closest to the nozzle N (approximately the central part) is pointed.

[0100] After the cosmetic cream C is filled into container B, a predetermined lid (not shown) is attached to the opening of container B to seal the cosmetic cream C. However, within the allowable time from filling to sealing, the cosmetic cream C does not naturally flatten due to gravity and maintains the shape shown in Figure 11.

[0101] <Flattening of cosmetic cream C> Figures 12 to 14 are diagrams illustrating an application example of the airflow generation system 1, and are diagrams illustrating the flattening of cosmetic cream C.

[0102] These figures show the orthogonal coordinate system used in the above explanation, which is fixed to the airflow generating device 2 (airflow generating member 230).

[0103] Furthermore, in these figures, container B, filled with cosmetic cream C, is placed on a conveyor belt and is moving in the positive direction of the X-axis.

[0104] Furthermore, an airflow generator 2 is installed at a predetermined height above the conveyor belt. The airflow generator 2 is in operation, and a downward airflow is generated from the airflow generator 2 in the negative direction of the Z axis (also referred to as "downward") (also referred to as "below the airflow generator 2").

[0105] Container B, placed on a conveyor belt, passes under the airflow generator 2 in the positive direction of the X-axis. As container B passes under the airflow generator 2, it receives the airflow generated by the airflow generator 2.

[0106] Figure 12 shows the state before container B passes under the airflow generator 2. In this state, the liquid surface of the cosmetic cream C maintains the shape shown in Figure 11 (a shape with a pointed center). As can be seen from Figure 12(b), the length of the airflow generating member 230 in the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction) is greater than the diameter of container B.

[0107] Figure 13 shows container B passing under the airflow generator 2. In this state, the pointed portion of the liquid surface of cosmetic cream C begins to tilt in the negative direction of the X-axis due to the airflow. The top of the liquid surface of cosmetic cream C then begins to descend.

[0108] Figure 14 shows the state after container B has passed under the airflow generator 2. In this state, the pointed portion of the liquid surface of cosmetic cream C is tilted in the negative direction of the X-axis by the airflow and almost disappears. The top of the liquid surface of cosmetic cream C then drops below the opening edge of container B.

[0109] The above steps complete the flattening of cosmetic cream C. In this state, when cosmetic cream C is sealed with the designated lid, no cosmetic cream will adhere to the underside of the lid.

[0110] According to the airflow generator 2 of this embodiment, when container B is passing under the airflow generator 2 (Figure 13), the cosmetic cream C filled in container B receives a linear airflow downward along the Y-axis (Figure 13(b)). Therefore, as container B passes under the airflow generator 2, the cosmetic cream C receives airflow over its entire surface. With such an airflow generator 2, the cosmetic cream C can be reliably flattened.

[0111] Furthermore, conventional airflow generators have difficulty reliably flattening the cosmetic cream C. This will be explained in detail below.

[0112] As described above, the airflow generator 2 of this embodiment can generate a linear airflow. In other words, the airflow generator 2 can simultaneously apply airflow to a linear region and its vicinity on any two-dimensional plane.

[0113] In contrast, conventional airflow generators that produce axisymmetric airflow are limited to a localized area near a single point in a two-dimensional plane where airflow can be applied simultaneously.

[0114] With conventional airflow generators like this one, flattening the cosmetic cream C requires identifying the sharp points on the liquid surface and directing the airflow to those points. Furthermore, because the location of these sharp points varies, this process inevitably becomes complicated.

[0115] Even with conventional airflow generators, the surface of cosmetic cream C can be flattened by repeatedly applying airflow to the entire surface while changing the position of the airflow. However, such a process requires a great deal of time and effort.

[0116] According to the airflow generator 2 of this embodiment, it is not necessary to identify the location of any pointed parts on the surface of the cosmetic cream C. Furthermore, because the airflow generator 2 can apply airflow to the entire surface of the cosmetic cream C in a short time, it can be flattened in a short time.

[0117] Furthermore, the flattening effect of the airflow generation system 1 is not limited to cosmetic cream C, but can be applied to other creamy, paste-like, or gel-like substances (pharmaceuticals, food products, etc.).

[0118] <<Application Example 2 of Airflow Generation System 1>> Other application examples of the airflow generation system 1 will be described.

[0119] The airflow generation system 1 can be used in blowers and the like used in clean rooms. An example is an air gun.

[0120] The air gun using the airflow generation system 1 generates airflow by circulating the air inside the cleanroom, eliminating the need to take in outside air from outside the cleanroom. Therefore, a filter is not required.

[0121] Furthermore, in the airflow generation system 1, the airflow generating member 230 does not come into contact with the ultrasonic horn 220. Therefore, dust is not generated due to contact between the two. Moreover, since no wear occurs due to contact between the two, the airflow generation system 1 has a long lifespan.

[0122] ==Variation 1== A modified example of the airflow generator 2 of the first embodiment will be described.

[0123] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating device 21 of this modified example. The airflow generating device 21 of this modified example differs from the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment (Figure 5) in the configuration of the airflow generating member 231.

[0124] Specifically, compared to the first embodiment, the airflow generating member 231 has a different cross-sectional shape in a plane (XZ plane) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Y-axis direction).

[0125] The following describes the cross-sectional shape of the airflow generating member 231 in a plane perpendicular to the Y-axis. Other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment and will therefore be omitted from the description. The same applies to the modified examples 2-7 described later.

[0126] The airflow generating member 231 has a tip T2. The airflow generating member 231 has a slit-shaped space G2 that extends through its interior from the bottom surface S21 to the tip T2 and is long in the Y-axis direction.

[0127] The tip T2 is oriented in the direction of the X-axis. In other words, the tip T2 is oriented perpendicular to the direction perpendicular to the base surface S21 (the direction of the Z-axis) (parallel to the base surface S21). Furthermore, the airflow generating member 231 has a tapered shape towards the tip T2.

[0128] As can be seen from Figure 15, the gap G2 bends at approximately a right angle inside the airflow generating member 231. The gap G2 has a portion on the bottom surface S21 side, which is a hole formed in the Z-axis direction from the bottom surface S21, and a portion on the tip T2 side, which is a hole formed in the X-axis direction from the tip T2. These two portions are perpendicular to each other with respect to their respective surfaces.

[0129] Even if the gap G2 is curved as in this modified example, if it is a gap that connects the opening on the bottom surface S21 side and the opening on the tip side T2 side, it is considered a gap that "penetrates" the interior of the airflow generating member 231 from the bottom surface S21 to the tip T2. The same applies in the following explanation.

[0130] With such an airflow generating member 231, it is possible to generate a linear airflow directed perpendicular to the direction in which the tip surface 220a vibrates (in this case, the direction of the X axis).

[0131] ==Variation 2== Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating device 22 of this modified example. The airflow generating device 22 of this modified example differs from the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment (Figure 5) in the configuration of the airflow generating member 232.

[0132] The airflow generating member 232 has two tips T31 and T32. Specifically, tip T31 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S31 in the Z-axis direction, and tip T32 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S31 in the negative X-axis direction. The airflow generating member 232 has a gap G3, which is a long, slit-shaped space in the Y-axis direction, that penetrates through the interior from the bottom surface S31 to each of the tips T31 and T32. The airflow generating member 231 is tapered towards the tips T31 and T32, respectively.

[0133] The void G3 branches inside the airflow generating member 232. The void G3 has a portion on the bottom surface S31 side that penetrates the interior in the Z-axis direction, a portion on the tip T31 side that penetrates the interior in the Z-axis direction and is on the same straight line as the portion on the bottom surface S31 side, and a portion on the tip T32 side which is a hole formed in the X-axis direction from the tip T32. The portion on the bottom surface S31 side branches into the portion on the tip T31 side and the portion on the tip T32 side.

[0134] Here, "same straight line" refers to the shape in the cross-sectional view of the airflow generating member 232 in the XZ plane. Furthermore, "straight line" here includes straight lines with a certain thickness. The same applies to the following explanation.

[0135] As shown in this modified example, the airflow generating member may have multiple tips. The void may penetrate the interior from the bottom surface to each of the multiple tips. In this case, the void is a space that branches internally as many times as there are tips.

[0136] ==Variation 3== Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating device 23 of this modified example. The airflow generating device 23 of this modified example differs from the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment (Figure 5) in the configuration of the airflow generating member 233.

[0137] The airflow generating member 233 has two tips T41 and T42. Specifically, tip T41 is at a predetermined position away from the base surface S41 in the positive direction of the X-axis, and tip T42 is at a predetermined position away from the base surface S41 in the negative direction of the X-axis. The airflow generating member 233 has a gap G4, which is a slit-shaped space that extends through the interior from the base surface S41 to each of the tips T41 and T42, and is long in the Y-axis direction. The airflow generating member 233 also has a tapered shape towards tips T41 and T42.

[0138] The void G4 branches inside the airflow generating member 233. The void G4 has a portion on the bottom surface S41 side, which is a hole formed in the Z-axis direction from the bottom surface S41; a portion on the tip T41 side that penetrates the interior in the positive X-axis direction; and a portion on the tip T42 side that penetrates the interior in the negative X-axis direction. The portion on the bottom surface S41 side branches into the portion on the tip T41 side and the portion on the tip T42 side. In this modified example, the portion on the tip T41 side and the portion on the tip T42 side are formed on the same straight line.

[0139] ==Variation 4== Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating device 24 of this modified example. The airflow generating device 24 of this modified example differs from the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment (Figure 5) in the configuration of the airflow generating member 234.

[0140] The airflow generating member 234 has three tips T51, T52, and T53. Specifically, tip T51 is at a predetermined position away from the base surface S51 in the Z-axis direction, tip T52 is at a predetermined position away from the base surface S51 in the positive X-axis direction, and tip T53 is at a predetermined position away from the base surface S51 in the negative X-axis direction. The airflow generating member 234 has a gap G5, which is a slit-shaped space that extends through the interior from the base surface S51 to each of the tips T51, T52, and T53, and is long in the Y-axis direction. The airflow generating member 234 also has a tapered shape towards the tips T51, T52, and T53.

[0141] The air gap G5 branches inside the airflow generating member 234. The air gap G5 has a portion on the bottom surface S51 side that penetrates the interior in the Z-axis direction, a portion on the tip T51 side that penetrates the interior in the Z-axis direction on the same straight line as the portion on the bottom surface S31 side, a portion on the tip T52 side that penetrates the interior in the positive X-axis direction, and a portion on the tip T53 side that penetrates the interior in the negative X-axis direction. The portion on the bottom surface S51 side branches into the portion on the tip T51 side, the portion on the tip T52 side, and the portion on the tip T53 side. In this modified example, the portion on the tip T52 side and the portion on the tip T53 side are formed on the same straight line.

[0142] ==Variation 5== Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating device 25 of this modified example. The airflow generating device 25 of this modified example differs from the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment (Figure 5) in the configuration of the airflow generating member 235.

[0143] The airflow generating member 235 has a tip T6. Specifically, the tip T6 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S61 in the negative direction of the X axis. The airflow generating member 235 has a gap G6, which is a slit-shaped space that extends through the interior from the bottom surface S61 to the tip T6 and is long in the Y axis direction. The airflow generating member 235 also has a tapered shape towards the tip T61.

[0144] The gap G6 bends inside the airflow generating member 235. The gap G6 has a portion on the bottom surface S61 side, which is a hole formed in the Z-axis direction from the bottom surface S61, and a portion on the tip T6 side, which is a hole formed in a direction inclined toward the center from the tip T6 (a direction between the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction).

[0145] ==Variation 6== Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating device 26 of this modified example. Compared to modified example 5 (Figure 19), the airflow generating device 26 of this modified example has a different configuration of the air gap G7 provided in the airflow generating member 236.

[0146] The airflow generating member 236 has two tips T71 and T72. Specifically, tip T71 is at a predetermined position away from the base surface S71 in the positive direction of the X-axis, and tip T72 is at a predetermined position away from the base surface S71 in the negative direction of the X-axis. The airflow generating member 236 has a gap G7, which is a slit-shaped space that extends through the interior from the base surface S71 to each of the tips T71 and T72, and is long in the Y-axis direction. The airflow generating member 236 also has a tapered shape towards the tips T71 and T72.

[0147] Of the void G7, the portion that penetrates the interior from the bottom surface S71 to the tip T71 is the same as the configuration of void G6 in modified example 6.

[0148] The void G7 further has a portion on the tip T72 side that penetrates the interior in the positive direction of the X axis from the portion on the bottom surface S61 side. The portion on the tip T72 side is a portion that branches off toward the tip T72 at approximately a right angle from a hole formed in the direction of the Z axis.

[0149] ==Variation 7== Figure 21 is a perspective view illustrating the airflow generating device 27 of this modified example. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating member 237 of this modified example.

[0150] The airflow generating device 27 in this modified example differs from the first embodiment (Figure 2) only in the configuration of the ultrasonic horn 221 and the airflow generating member 237. Each of these will be described below. Other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment and will therefore not be described.

[0151] [Ultrasonic Horn 221] In this modified example, the ultrasonic horn 221 is substantially axially symmetric with respect to a predetermined axis X1. The ultrasonic horn 221 is provided with a cavity 221b that is substantially axially symmetric with respect to axis X1. Accordingly, the shape of the tip surface 221a of the ultrasonic horn 221 is a circumference with a certain thickness (described later). Similar to the first embodiment, the shape of the tip surface 221a is designed to be equal to the shape of the bottom surface S81 of the airflow generating member 237.

[0152] [Airflow generating member 237] In this modified example, the airflow generating member 237 is a substantially cylindrical member that is substantially axially symmetric with respect to a predetermined axis X1.

[0153] In Figure 22, (a) shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow generating device 27 in a plane passing through axis X1. (b) shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow generating member 237 in a plane passing through AA' in (a) and perpendicular to the Z axis.

[0154] The airflow generating member 237 has a bottom surface S81. The airflow generating member 237 also has a tip T8 at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S81. The surfaces between the bottom surface S81 and the tip T8 are the outer circumferential surface S82 and the inner circumferential surface S83 of the airflow generating member 237. Furthermore, the airflow generating member 237 has a tapered shape towards the tip T8.

[0155] The airflow generating member 237 is provided with a gap G8. The gap G8 is a space that penetrates the interior of the airflow generating member 237 from the bottom surface S81 to the tip T8 and is formed in the shape of a circular arc in cross-section. The gap G8 is a space formed between two wall surfaces S84 and S85.

[0156] As shown in Figure 22(a), the void G8 penetrates in the direction of the Z axis. Also, as shown in Figure 22(b), the cross-sectional shape of the void G8 in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the Z axis is a shape that follows the circumference of a circle centered on axis X1.

[0157] In this figure, the air gap G8 is divided into three parts in the circumferential direction of axis X1. This is to fix the airflow generating member 237 without dividing it into two parts, so that the two wall surfaces S84 and S85 face each other at a predetermined distance apart.

[0158] Such an airflow generator 27 can generate a linear airflow along the circumference. Furthermore, it can entrain the air supplied from the cavity 221b of the ultrasonic horn 221 near the tip T8. As a result, the flow rate of the generated airflow increases.

[0159] ==Second Embodiment== Figure 23 is a perspective view illustrating the airflow generating device 28 of this embodiment. Figure 24 is a side view illustrating the airflow generating member 238. Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating member 238.

[0160] The airflow generator 28 differs from the first embodiment (Figure 2) only in the configuration of the ultrasonic horn 222 and the airflow generating member 238. Each of these will be described below. Other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment and will therefore not be described.

[0161] [Ultrasonic Horn 222] In this embodiment, the ultrasonic horn 222 is substantially axially symmetric with respect to a predetermined axis X1. Accordingly, the shape of the tip surface 222a of the ultrasonic horn 222 is circular. Similar to the first embodiment, the shape of the tip surface 222a is designed to be equal to the shape of the bottom surface S91 of the airflow generating member 238.

[0162] [Airflow generating member 238] The airflow generating member 238 in this embodiment is substantially axially symmetric with respect to a predetermined axis X1. Details of the airflow generating member 238, particularly its shape, will be described below with reference to Figures 24 and 25.

[0163] Figure 24 is a side view illustrating the airflow generating member 238. In Figure 24, (a) shows a side view as viewed from the positive Z-axis direction. (b) shows a side view as viewed from the positive X-axis direction. (c) shows a side view as viewed from the positive Y-axis direction.

[0164] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating member 238. In Figure 25, (a) shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow generating device 28 in a plane passing through axis X1. (b) shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow generating member 238 in a plane passing through AA' in (a) and perpendicular to the Z axis.

[0165] The airflow generating member 238 has a bottom surface S91 (Figures 24 and 25(a)). The shape of the bottom surface S91 is a circle with a diameter of R1. In this embodiment, the diameter R1 is 10 mm.

[0166] The airflow generating member 238 further has a tip T9 at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S91. The surface between the bottom surface S91 and the tip T9 is the side surface S92 of the airflow generating member 238.

[0167] The airflow generating member 238 has a tapered shape towards its tip T9. In other words, the airflow generating member 238 has a pointed shape at its tip T9. This will be explained in detail below.

[0168] In this embodiment, the side surface S92 of the airflow generating member 238 is composed of a curved surface S921 on the bottom surface S91 side and a curved surface S922 on the tip T9 side (Figure 24).

[0169] Surface S921 is a surface adjacent to the base surface S91. The shape of surface S921 is equal to the shape of the side surface of a cylinder with diameter R1.

[0170] Surface S922 is the surface between surface S921 and tip T9. The shape of surface S922 is approximately equal to the shape of the side surface of a cone with a base diameter of R1.

[0171] The airflow generating member 238 has such a side surface S92 (curved surfaces S921, S922), resulting in a shape that tapers towards the tip T9.

[0172] The airflow generating member 238 is provided with a gap G9 (Figures 24(a) and 25). The gap G9 is a space that penetrates the interior of the airflow generating member 238 from the bottom surface S91 to the tip T9. The gap G9 is a space enclosed by the wall surface S93.

[0173] The shape of the wall surface S93 is equal to the shape of the side surface of a cylinder with a diameter of R2. The diameter R2 is sufficiently small compared to the length from the base surface S91 to the tip T9. In other words, the void G9 is a linearly extending space. In this embodiment, the diameter R2 is 1.0 mm. Note that the diameter R2 is sufficiently small compared to the diameter R1.

[0174] As shown in Figure 25(a), the void G9 penetrates in the direction of the Z axis. Also, as shown in Figure 25(b), the cross-sectional shape of the void G9 in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the Z axis is a circle with a diameter of R2 centered on axis X1.

[0175] Such an airflow generating device 28 can generate an axially symmetric airflow. Furthermore, because the airflow generating member 238 tapers towards the tip T9, it becomes easier to entrain the air around the tip T9 in its vicinity. As a result, the flow rate of the generated axially symmetric airflow increases.

[0176] ==Summary== The airflow generating device 2 of the embodiment described above comprises a vibrating member having a predetermined vibrating surface and capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating surface, and an airflow generating member 230 having a gap G1 that penetrates through the interior from the bottom surface S11 to the tip T1, and the bottom surface S11 facing the vibrating surface at a predetermined distance D1, wherein the gap G1 is a space formed between two wall surfaces S13 and S14 that face each other at a predetermined distance D2, and the shape of the opening on the tip T1 side is linear with a width equal to the distance D2.

[0177] With this configuration, when the vibrating surface vibrates, a linear airflow is generated near the opening at the tip T1 side of the air gap G1. Therefore, the limitations on the range to which the airflow can be directed are relaxed.

[0178] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the air gap G1 is a closed space on the side S12 between the bottom surface S11 and the tip T1. With this configuration, since no gas is discharged from the air gap G1 to the side S12, the sound pressure inside the air gap G1 can be increased. This makes it possible to increase the flow velocity of the generated airflow.

[0179] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the airflow generating member 230 has a tapered shape toward the tip T1. With this configuration, the gas near the airflow generating member 230 can easily reach the tip T1 along the side surface S12. This makes it possible to increase the flow rate of the generated airflow.

[0180] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the bottom surface S11 faces at least a portion of the vibrating surface. With this configuration, the vibration of the vibrating surface can be effectively utilized to generate airflow.

[0181] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the bottom surface S11 faces the entire vibrating surface. With this configuration, the air near the airflow generating member 230 and the vibrating member can easily reach the tip T1 along the side surface S12. This makes it possible to further increase the flow rate of the generated airflow.

[0182] In the above modified examples 2 to 4 and 6, the airflow generating member has multiple tips, and the void is a space that penetrates the interior from the bottom surface to each of the multiple tips and branches internally as many times as there are tips. With such a configuration, the degree of freedom regarding the direction of the generated airflow is increased.

[0183] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the vibrating member is an ultrasonic horn 220. Such an example simplifies the configuration of the airflow generating device 2.

[0184] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, in a predetermined orthogonal coordinate system fixed to the airflow generating member 230, consisting of mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes, the bottom surface S11 is a plane perpendicular to the Z axis, the airflow generating member 230 is arranged such that the bottom surface S11 faces the vibration surface with a gap D1 in the Z-axis direction, and the air gap G1 has a uniform cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the Y axis, with a width in the Y-axis direction greater than the gap D2. With this configuration, a linear airflow is generated from the vicinity of the opening on the tip T1 side of the air gap G1. This relaxes the limitations on the range to which the airflow can be directed.

[0185] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the airflow generating member 230 has a main body portion 230a in which a gap G1 is provided, and side portions 230b and 230c formed at both ends of the main body portion 230a that close the gap G1 from the direction of the Y axis. With this configuration, since air is not discharged from the gap G1 to the side S12 side, the sound pressure inside the gap can be increased. As a result, the flow velocity of the generated linear airflow can be increased.

[0186] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the main body 230a has a cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the Y-axis that tapers towards the tip T1. With this configuration, the gas near the airflow generating member 230 can easily reach the tip T1 along the side surface S12. This makes it possible to increase the flow rate of the generated linear airflow.

[0187] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the air gap G1 penetrates through the interior in the direction of the Z axis. With this configuration, the flow velocity and flow rate of the generated airflow can be increased.

[0188] The airflow generation method of the above embodiment includes the steps of: positioning an airflow generation member 230, which has a gap G1 penetrating its interior from the bottom surface S11 to the tip T1, on a vibrating member having a predetermined vibrating surface and capable of vibrating the vibrating surface in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating surface, such that the bottom surface S11 faces the vibrating surface at a predetermined distance D1; and vibrating the vibrating surface, wherein the gap G1 is a space formed between opposing wall surfaces S13 and S14 at a predetermined distance D2, and the shape of the opening on the tip T1 side is linear in width equal to the distance D2.

[0189] With this configuration, when the vibrating surface vibrates, a linear airflow is generated near the opening on the tip T1 side of the air gap G. This relaxes the limitations on the area to which the airflow can be directed.

[0190] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0191] 1. Airflow generation system 2,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28 Airflow Generator 210 Vibration section 220, 221, 222 Ultrasonic horn 220a,221a,222a Tip surface 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238 Airflow generating member 230a Main body 230b, 230c Side 3 Oscillators 4. Control device S11,S21,S31,S41,S51,S61,S71,S81,S91 Bottom S12, S92 Side Planes S121, S122, S123, S124, S125, S126, S127, S128 S13,S14,S84,S85,S93 wall S82 outer perimeter S83 inner circumferential surface S921, S922 curved surfaces T1,T2,T31,T32,T41,T42,T51,T52,T53,T6,T71,T72,T8,T9 apex

Claims

1. A vibrating member having a predetermined vibrating surface, wherein the vibrating surface is capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating surface, An airflow generating member is provided with a gap that penetrates the interior from the bottom surface to the tip, and the bottom surface is positioned to face the vibrating surface at a predetermined first distance, Equipped with, The aforementioned void is A space formed between two opposing wall surfaces separated by a predetermined second interval, wherein the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear in that its width is equal to the second interval. Airflow generating device.

2. An airflow generating device according to claim 1, The aforementioned void is The side surface between the bottom surface and the tip is a closed space. Airflow generating device.

3. An airflow generating device according to claim 1, The airflow generating member has a shape that tapers towards the tip. Airflow generating device.

4. An airflow generating device according to claim 1, The aforementioned bottom surface is Opposing at least a portion of the vibration surface, Airflow generating device.

5. An airflow generating device according to claim 4, The aforementioned bottom surface is Opposing the entire surface of the vibration, Airflow generating device.

6. An airflow generating device according to claim 1, The aforementioned airflow generating member is Having multiple aforementioned tips, The aforementioned void is The interior penetrates from the bottom surface to each of the multiple tips, The space inside branches out according to the number of the aforementioned multiple tips. Airflow generating device.

7. An airflow generating device according to claim 1, The vibrating member is an ultrasonic horn. Airflow generating device.

8. An airflow generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, In a predetermined orthogonal coordinate system consisting of mutually orthogonal first to third axes and fixed to the airflow generating member, The aforementioned bottom surface is It is a plane perpendicular to the first axis, The aforementioned airflow generating member is The bottom surface is positioned so as to face the vibrating surface with a first distance between them in the direction of the first axis, The aforementioned void is The cross-sectional shape in the plane perpendicular to the second axis is uniform over the direction of the second axis, and the width in the direction of the second axis is greater than the second interval. Airflow generating device.

9. An airflow generating device according to claim 8, The aforementioned airflow generating member is The main body portion in which the aforementioned gap is provided, The main body portion has side portions formed at both ends that close the gap from the direction of the second axis, Airflow generating device.

10. An airflow generating device according to claim 9, The main body is, The cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second axis is tapered towards the tip. Airflow generating device.

11. An airflow generating device according to claim 8, The aforementioned void is Penetrating the interior in the direction of the first axis, Airflow generating device.

12. A vibrating member having a predetermined vibrating surface, wherein the vibrating surface is capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibrating surface, The steps include: arranging an airflow generating member, which has a gap penetrating its interior from the bottom to the tip, such that the bottom faces the vibrating surface at a predetermined first distance; The steps include: vibrating the aforementioned vibrating surface, Includes, The aforementioned void is A space formed between two opposing wall surfaces separated by a predetermined second interval, wherein the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear in that its width is equal to the second interval. Airflow generation method.

13. An airflow generating member having a gap that penetrates the interior from the bottom to the tip, The main body portion in which the aforementioned gap is provided, Side portions formed at both ends of the main body portion, closing the gap from both ends of the main body portion, Equipped with, The aforementioned void is a space formed between two opposing wall surfaces separated by a predetermined distance, and the shape of the opening at the tip is linear in that its width is equal to the distance between the walls. Airflow generating component.

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