Humidifier
By designing the humidifying device with a spout that opens towards the ventilation surface on the axial end of the water-absorbing member, the device effectively addresses the issue of reduced humidification capacity in existing humidifiers, enhancing the distribution of water to areas where air passes through.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2023053941
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-03-29
- Publication Date
- 2025-03-19
- Estimated Expiration
- 2043-03-29
AI Technical Summary
The humidification mechanism in existing humidifiers often struggles to effectively distribute water to the areas where air passes through the water-absorbing member, leading to reduced humidification capacity.
The humidifying device incorporates a rotating frame with a water pumping top and a spout that opens towards the ventilation surface on the axial end of the water-absorbing member, ensuring that water is directly supplied to the area where air passes through.
This configuration enhances the humidification capacity of the water-absorbing member by ensuring that water reaches the areas where air passes through, thereby improving the overall humidification performance.
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Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a humidification device. [Background technology]
[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a humidifying device that humidifies air. The humidifying device includes a water storage section and a humidifying mechanism having a rotating frame. The humidifying mechanism includes a rotating frame and a water-absorbing member held inside the rotating frame. When the drive mechanism rotates the rotating frame, the water-pumping upper part of the rotating frame moves under the water in the water storage section below the rotating frame. As a result, water enters the inside of the water-pumping upper part. When the water-pumping upper part moves to the upper side of the rotating frame, the water inside the water-pumping upper part is supplied to the water-absorbing member through the spout. When the air passes through the water-absorbing member in the axial direction of the rotating frame, the water from the water-absorbing member is added to the air. The air humidified in this manner is supplied to the target space. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-20627 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] In the humidification mechanism of Patent Document 1, the spout for pouring the water pumped up in the water pumping section into the water-absorbent member opens toward the outer circumferential surface of the water-absorbent member. Therefore, water from the spout is supplied from the outer circumferential surface of the water-absorbent member to the inside of the water-absorbent member. Meanwhile, air passes through the water-absorbent member in the axial direction. Therefore, if the water supplied to the water-absorbent member does not sufficiently reach the part of the water-absorbent member through which the air passes, the air humidification capacity decreases.
[0005] The present disclosure aims to improve the humidifying capacity of water-absorbent members. [Means for solving the problem]
[0006] The humidifier of the first embodiment includes a rotary frame (45) rotated by a drive mechanism (41), a humidification mechanism (40) having a water-absorbing member (70) held by the rotary frame (45) and through which air passes in the axial direction of the rotary frame (45), and a water storage section (33) that stores water to be supplied to the water-absorbing member (70). The rotary frame (45) is provided with a water-pumping section (80) that pumps up water in the water storage section (33), and a spout (92) that pours the water pumped up by the water-pumping section (80) into the water-absorbing member (70). The spout (92) opens toward a ventilation surface (74) on the end side of the water-absorbing member (70) in the axial direction.
[0007] In the first aspect, the water-pumping portion (80) opens toward the ventilation surface (74) at the end of the water-absorbent member (70) in the axial direction. Therefore, water inside the water-pumping portion (80) is supplied to the ventilation surface (74) at the end of the water-absorbent member (70) through the spout (92). As a result, water can easily reach the portion of the water-absorbent member (70) through which air passes, improving the humidification capacity of the water-absorbent member (70).
[0008] In a second aspect, in the first aspect, the ventilation surface (74) is a surface of the water absorbent member (70) on the air inflow side.
[0009] In the second aspect, the spout (92) opens toward the ventilation surface (74) on the air inflow side of the water-absorbent member (70). When water is supplied from the spout (92) to the ventilation surface (74) on the end side of the water-absorbent member (70), the water is more likely to move into the water-absorbent member (70) due to the air flow. In other words, the water supplied to the water-absorbent member (70) is less likely to splash outside the water-absorbent member (70). As a result, the humidification capacity of the water-absorbent member (70) can be improved.
[0010] The third aspect is the first or second aspect, in which a water storage space (S) is formed inside the water scooping portion (80) and includes a first space (S1) and a second space (S2) protruding from the first space (S1) in the axial direction.
[0011] In the third embodiment, since the second space (S2) protrudes from the first space (S1) in the axial direction, the volume of the water storage space (S) can be increased.
[0012] In a fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the second space (S2) protrudes in the axial direction from a radially outer portion of the rotary frame (45) in the first space (S1). The water absorbing member (70) is disposed radially inward of the rotary frame (45) with respect to the second space (S2).
[0013] Here, "the radially outer portion of the rotary frame (45) in the first space (S1)" means, strictly speaking, a portion between a radially intermediate portion of the first space (S1) and the radially outer end.
[0014] In the fourth aspect, the second space (S2) is protruded from the radially outer portion of the first space (S1) and the water-absorbing member (70) is arranged radially inward relative to the second space (S2), thereby making it possible to reduce the outer diameter of the rotating frame (45).
[0015] In the fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, among the inner surfaces forming the second space (S2) in the water pumping portion (80), a first surface (85) on the radially inner side of the second space (S2) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) of the rotating frame (45) as it approaches the first space (S1).
[0016] In the fifth aspect, when the water-scooping upper portion (80) is positioned above the rotary frame (45), water accumulated in the second space (S2) tends to flow down into the first space (S1) due to its own weight.
[0017] In a sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the rotating frame (45) is provided with a wall (66a) located on the opposite side in the axial direction to the spout (92), with the water absorbent member (70) between them.
[0018] In the sixth aspect, the water-absorbent member (70) is disposed between the spout (92) and the wall (66a) in the axial direction of the rotating frame (45). The wall (66a) is configured to prevent water from passing through the water-absorbent member (70) in the axial direction and moving to the outside when water is supplied to the water-absorbent member (70) from the spout (92). As a result, the humidification capacity of the water-absorbent member (70) can be improved.
[0019] In a seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, the wall (66a) is provided with fixing portions (66b, 66c) for fixing the water absorbent member (70).
[0020] In the seventh embodiment, the wall (66a) also serves as a member for fixing the water absorbent member (70).
[0021] In an eighth aspect, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the rotating frame (45) is formed with a guide surface (97) that guides water from the water scooping portion (80) to the spout (92). The guide surface (97) is composed of a second surface (97a) that is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis of the rotating frame (45) as it approaches the spout (92), and a third surface (97b) that extends in the axial direction from the second surface (97a) to the spout (92). When viewed from a cross section passing through the rotation axis, the length of the third surface (97b) is half or less the length of the second surface (97a).
[0022] In the eighth aspect, when the water scooping portion (80) moves to the upper side of the rotating frame (45), the water on the second surface (97a) is likely to move toward the spout (92) due to its own weight. This water is guided in the axial direction by the third surface (97b), and therefore is likely to reach the portion of the water-absorbent member (70) through which air passes. Furthermore, by making the length of the third surface (97b) equal to or less than half the length of the second surface (97a), water is prevented from remaining on the third surface (97b). As a result, the humidification capacity of the water-absorbent member (70) can be improved.
[0023] A ninth aspect is any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein a guide surface (97) is formed on the rotating frame (45) for guiding water from the water scooping portion (80) to the spout (92), and the guide surface (97) is configured with a second surface (97a) that extends to the spout (92) while inclining so as to approach the rotation axis of the rotating frame (45) as it approaches the spout (92).
[0024] In the ninth aspect, when the water scooping portion (80) moves to the upper side of the rotating frame (45), the water on the second surface (97a) is likely to move toward the spout (92) due to its own weight. Since the second surface (97a) extends to the spout (92), water is prevented from remaining on the guide surface (97). As a result, the humidification capacity of the water absorbent member (70) can be improved.
[0025] In a tenth aspect, in any one of the first to ninth aspects, the rotating frame (45) is provided with a recess (91) recessed radially inward of the rotating frame (45) so as to form the spout (92) therein. The inner surface of the recess (91) includes a pair of fourth surfaces (96) facing each other in the circumferential direction of the rotating frame (45), a fifth surface (97) formed radially inward, and arc-shaped sixth surfaces (98) formed between each of the fourth surfaces (96) and fifth surfaces (97).
[0026] In the tenth aspect, an arc-shaped sixth surface (98) is formed at a corner of the inner surface of the recess (91). This makes it possible to prevent water from remaining in the corner of the recess (91), thereby improving the humidifying capacity of the water absorbent member (70). [Brief description of the drawings]
[0027] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an air purifier according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the inside of the air purifier. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the humidification unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the humidification rotor. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the first frame. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side view of the humidification rotor as viewed from the first frame side. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a side view of the first frame as viewed from the water absorbent member side. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion surrounded by a dashed line in B2 of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of the portion surrounded by the dashed line in B2 of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion surrounded by a dashed line in B3 of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an enlarged perspective view of the portion surrounded by B1 in FIG. 4, as viewed from the water absorbent member side. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 12 of the first modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0028] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical idea of the present disclosure. Since each drawing is intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding.
[0029] (1) Overall configuration of the humidifier The overall configuration of the humidifier will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. In the following description, the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "right," and "left" are, in principle, based on the directions indicated by the arrows in Figure 1.
[0030] The humidifying device of this embodiment constitutes an air purifier (10) that purifies air. The air purifier (10) humidifies the air in a target space. In addition, the air purifier (10) purifies the air in the target space. The air purifier (10) has a casing (11) and a plurality of components housed in an air passage (P) inside the casing (11). The plurality of components include, in order along the air flow, a prefilter (21), a fan (22), a discharge unit (23), a UV irradiation unit (24), a HEPA filter (25), a deodorizing filter (26), and a humidification unit (30).
[0031] (1-1) Casing As shown in Fig. 1, the casing (11) is formed in a hollow box shape. The casing (11) is formed in a vertically long rectangular parallelepiped shape. The casing (11) has a top plate (11a), a bottom plate (11b), a front plate (11c), a rear plate (11d), a right side plate (11e), and a left side plate (11f).
[0032] An air outlet (12) is formed in the top plate (11a). The air outlet (12) is formed in a rectangular shape, and is formed slightly toward the rear of the top plate (11a). Two flaps (13) are provided in the air outlet (12). The flaps (13) are formed in a plate shape spanning 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 blown out.
[0033] An operation panel (14) is provided on the top plate (11a). The operation panel (14) is located toward the front of the top plate (11a). A user can operate the operation panel (14) to input an operation mode and various settings of the air purifier (10).
[0034] A first suction port (15) is formed at the lower end of the front plate (11c) and extends horizontally from the left to the right ends of the casing (11).
[0035] A second suction port (16) is formed in the right side plate (11e). The second suction port (16) is formed in a rectangular shape and is formed in the lower part of the right side plate (11e). An openable lid (17) is provided in the upper part of the right side plate (11e). The openable lid (17) opens and closes an access port (18) of the water tank (32) of the humidification unit (30). The openable lid (17) is configured to tilt to the right with its lower part as a fulcrum. A drawer opening (19) is formed in the upper part of the openable lid (17). A user places his / her hand on the drawer opening (19) and pulls out the upper part of the openable lid (17) to the right (front). This causes the upper part of the openable lid (17) to tilt to the right, opening the access port (18). This allows the user to remove the water tank (32) from the casing (11) through the access port (18).
[0036] The left side plate (11f) is formed with a third suction port (20). The third suction port (20) is rectangular in shape, and is formed in the lower part of the left side plate (11f).
[0037] An air passage (P) is formed inside the casing (11). The first suction port (15), the second suction port (16), and the third suction port (20) form an inlet end of the air passage (P). The air outlet (12) forms an outlet end of the air passage (P).
[0038] (1-2) Prefilter As shown in Fig. 2, two prefilters (21) are provided inside the casing (11). One of the prefilters (21) is disposed on the rear side of the second suction port (16), and the other prefilter (21) is disposed on the rear side of the third suction port (20). The prefilter (21) collects relatively small amounts of dust in the air.
[0039] (1-3) Fans The fan (22) is disposed at the bottom of the air passage (P). The fan (22) transports air in the air passage (P). The fan (22) is a centrifugal fan, specifically a sirocco fan. The fan (22) is of a double-suction type, in which suction portions are formed at both ends of the axial direction of the drive shaft. The blowing portion of the fan (22) faces upward. The fan (22) has a fan motor (22a) that drives an impeller. The fan motor (22a) is disposed closer to the left side plate (11f). When the fan (22) is operated, air in the target space is sucked into the air passage (P) through the first suction port (15), the second suction port (16), and the third suction port (20). The air that has flowed through the air passage (P) is blown out into the target space through the blowing port (12).
[0040] (1-4) Discharge unit The discharge unit (23) is disposed between the fan (22) and the HEPA filter (25). The discharge unit (23) is disposed in the air passage (P) near the left side plate (11f). The discharge unit (23) generates active species for oxidatively decomposing air through discharge. The discharge unit (23) generates a discharge between the tip of a linear discharge electrode and the flat surface of a plate-shaped counter electrode. The discharge unit (23) generates a streamer discharge that forms a substantially conical discharge region from the tip of the discharge electrode toward the counter electrode.
[0041] (1-5) UV irradiation unit The UV irradiation unit (24) is disposed between the fan (22) and the HEPA filter (25). The UV irradiation unit (24) is disposed near the left side panel (11f) in the air passage (P). The UV irradiation unit (24) sterilizes viruses and bacteria in the air or on the surface of a target component by emitting ultraviolet light. The UV irradiation unit (24) has an LED that emits ultraviolet light and a control circuit that controls the LED (not shown). The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED is not less than 255 nm and not more than 275 nm. The LED irradiates the ultraviolet light toward the HEPA filter (25). Therefore, the HEPA filter (25) can be sterilized by the ultraviolet light.
[0042] (1-6) HEPA filter The HEPA filter (25) (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) is disposed between the UV irradiation unit (24) and the deodorizing filter (26). The HEPA filter (25) is formed in a plate shape with its thickness direction corresponding to the vertical direction. The HEPA filter (25) has an electrostatic function of collecting particles by electrostatic force. An antibacterial agent is added to the HEPA filter (25). The HEPA filter (25) may have a layered structure in which two or more filter materials are layered in the air passage direction.
[0043] (1-7) Deodorizing filter The deodorizing filter (26) is disposed between the HEPA filter (25) and the humidification unit (30). The deodorizing filter (26) is formed in a plate shape whose thickness direction corresponds to the vertical direction. The deodorizing filter (26) is an adsorption part that adsorbs harmful substances and odorous substances in the air. The deodorizing filter (26) has a base material through which air can pass and an adsorbent material such as activated carbon supported on the base material.
[0044] (1-8) Humidification unit The humidification unit (30) is disposed between the deodorizing filter (26) and the air outlet (12). The humidification unit (30) is disposed in a humidification space (31) located at an upper portion of the air passage (P). The humidification unit (30) adds water to the air flowing through the air passage (P). The humidification unit (30) includes a tank (32), a water tray (33), and a humidification mechanism (40).
[0045] The tank (32) is a container for storing water for humidification. The tank (32) appropriately supplies the water therein to the water tray (33). The tank (32) is configured to be able to be inserted into and removed from the casing (11) through the above-mentioned access opening (18).
[0046] The water tray (33) stores the water supplied from the tank (32). The water tray (33) constitutes a water storage section for supplying water to the water absorbing member (70) of the humidification mechanism (40). The water tray (33) is a container with an open top.
[0047] (2) Overall configuration of the humidification mechanism The humidification mechanism (40) humidifies the air flowing through the air passage (P). The humidification mechanism (40) includes a drive mechanism (41), a drive shaft (42) driven by the drive mechanism (41), a shaft support (43) that supports the drive shaft (42), and a humidification rotor (44) connected to the drive shaft (42). The humidification rotor (44) divides the humidification space (31) into a primary space (31a) and a secondary space (31b). The primary space (31a) is formed upstream of the humidification rotor (44). The secondary space (31b) is formed downstream of the humidification rotor (44).
[0048] As shown in Fig. 2, the drive mechanism (41) is disposed in the primary space (31a). In this embodiment, the drive mechanism (41) is formed by a motor. The drive shaft (42) extends horizontally to the right from the drive mechanism (41). The drive shaft (42) is connected to the central axis of a rotation frame (45) of the humidification rotor (44).
[0049] The humidification mechanism (40) of this embodiment is provided with two shaft supports (43). One of these shaft supports (43) is located in the primary space (31a), and the other is located in the secondary space (31b). Each shaft support (43) rotatably supports a drive shaft (42) at its upper end. The shaft supports (43) of this embodiment are formed integrally with the water tray (33).
[0050] (3) Humidification rotor The configuration of the humidification rotor (44) will be described with reference to Fig. 2 to Fig. 13. In the following description, the terms "axial direction," "radial direction," and "circumferential direction" generally refer to the axial direction, radial direction, and circumferential direction, respectively, of the rotating frame (45). The "axial direction" refers to the direction in which the rotating axis (X), which is the center of rotation of the rotating frame (45) shown in Fig. 3, extends.
[0051] The humidification rotor (44) imparts water contained in the water absorption member (70) to the air in the humidification space (31). The humidification rotor (44) has a rotating frame (45) rotated by the drive mechanism (41) and a water absorption member (70) held in the rotating frame (45). The rotating frame (45) is made of a resin material. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the rotating frame (45) has a first frame (50) and a second frame (60). The water absorption member (70) is held inside the rotating frame (45) by being sandwiched between the first frame (50) and the second frame (60).
[0052] The rotating frame (45) is provided with a bucket (80) that draws up water from the water tray (33) and a spout (92) for supplying the water in the bucket (80) to the water absorption member (70). The bucket (80) is configured to move alternately as the rotating frame (45) rotates between a first position where it is immersed in the water inside the water tray (33) and a second position where the water in the bucket (80) is supplied to the water absorption member (70) through the spout (92).
[0053] (3-1) First slot The first frame (50) is located on the upstream side of the air passage (P) of the rotary frame (45). The first frame (50) is located on the primary space (31a) side. The first frame (50) has a first boss portion (51) to which the drive shaft (42) is fixed, an annular first frame body (52), and a plurality of first ribs (53) connecting the first boss portion (51) and the first frame body (52).
[0054] The first boss portion (51) is located at the center of the rotary frame (45). The first ribs (53) extend radially outward from the first boss portion (51) toward the first frame body (52). The first ribs (53) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.
[0055] The first frame body (52) is formed in an annular shape coaxial with the rotation axis (X) of the rotary frame (45). The first frame (50) is provided with a plurality of buckets (80) and guide portions (90) corresponding to each bucket (80). A spout (92) is formed in the guide portions (90). The first frame body (52) has a plate-like base portion (52a) having a thickness direction corresponding to the axial direction.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 5, the first frame body (52) is composed of a first part (C1) and a plurality of second parts (C2) that are configured separately from the first part (C1). The first part (C1) and each of the second parts (C2) are resin molded products composed of different parts. The first part (C1) and each of the second parts (C2) are manufactured by injection molding in a mold. The first part (C1) is the portion of the first frame body (52) excluding the second part (C2). The first frame body (52) is configured by attaching each of the second parts (C2) to the first part (C1).
[0057] The plurality of buckets (80) include first buckets (80A) provided on the first part (C1) and second buckets (80B) each formed of the second part (C2). In the present embodiment, the rotary frame (45) is provided with six first buckets (80A) and six second buckets (80B). Although these numbers are merely examples, it is preferable that the number of first buckets (80A) and second buckets (80B) is the same. In the rotary frame (45), it is preferable that the first buckets (80A) and the second buckets (80B) are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction.
[0058] First claws (56) are provided on a surface of the second bucket (80B) facing the first component (C1). As shown in Fig. 6, first holes (54) with which each of the first claws (56) engage are formed in the base (52a). The first claws (56) are caught in the first holes (54), thereby fixing each of the second buckets (80B) to the first component (C1).
[0059] A plurality of second holes (55) are formed in the base portion (52a). The second holes (55) communicate with some of the plurality of first holes (54). In other words, the first holes (54) and the second holes (55) are integrally formed in the first frame body (52). The second claws (65) of the second frame (60) are caught in the second holes (55).
[0060] (3-2) Second slot The second frame (60) is located on the downstream side of the air passage (P) of the rotary frame (45). The second frame (60) is located on the secondary space (31b) side. The second frame (60) has a second boss portion (61) to which the drive shaft (42) is fixed, an annular second frame body (62), and a plurality of second ribs (63) connecting the second boss portion (61) and the second frame body (62).
[0061] The second boss portion (61) is located at the center of the rotary frame (45). The second ribs (63) extend radially outward from the second boss portion (61) toward the second frame body (62). The second ribs (63) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.
[0062] The second frame body (62) is formed in an annular shape coaxial with the rotation axis (X) of the rotary frame (45).
[0063] As shown in FIG. 4, the second frame (60) is provided with a plurality of pressing plates (64). The second frame (60) of the present embodiment is provided with 12 pressing plates (64), but this number is merely an example. The pressing plates (64) are formed in a plate shape protruding from the second frame body (62) toward the first frame (50). The pressing plates (64) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The pressing plates (64) include a first pressing plate (64A) provided with a second claw (65) and a second pressing plate (64B) not having a second claw (65). The first pressing plate (64A) and the second pressing plate (64B) are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The second claw (65) of the first pressing plate (64A) is hooked into the first hole (54) formed in the first frame body (52). This causes the first frame (50) and the second frame (60) to be fixed to each other.
[0064] The second frame (60) is provided with a plurality of retaining portions (66). In this embodiment, the second frame (60) is provided with 12 retaining portions (66), but this number is merely an example. The retaining portions (66) are provided on the inner edge of the second frame body (62). The retaining portions (66) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The retaining portions (66) constitute members for fixing the water-absorbing member (70) inside the rotating frame (45).
[0065] (3-3) Water-absorbing material The water-absorbing member (70) is formed in a disk shape coaxial with the rotation axis (X) of the rotary frame (45). The thickness direction of the water-absorbing member (70) corresponds to the axial direction or the air flow direction. The water-absorbing member (70) is made of a water-absorbing resin material. The water-absorbing member (70) has a disk portion (71) and a flange portion (72) extending radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the disk portion (71). A shaft opening (73) through which the drive shaft (42) passes is formed in the center of the disk portion (71).
[0066] 7, a first ventilation surface (74) is formed at one axial end of the water absorption member (70), and a second ventilation surface (75) is formed at the other axial end of the water absorption member (70). The first ventilation surface (74) corresponds to the surface of the water absorption member (70) that is upstream of the air flow. The second ventilation surface (75) corresponds to the surface of the water absorption member (70) that is downstream of the air flow.
[0067] A welded portion (76) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the disk portion (71) of the water-absorbent member (70). The welded portion (76) is formed around the entire outer peripheral surface of the water-absorbent member (70). The welded portion (76) is formed by melting a water-absorbing material and then solidifying the material. On the other hand, the welded portion (76) is not formed on the first ventilation surface (74) or the second ventilation surface (75) of the water-absorbent member (70). Therefore, the first ventilation surface (74) and the second ventilation surface (75) of the water-absorbent member (70) have higher air and water permeability than the outer peripheral surface of the water-absorbent member (70).
[0068] As shown in Figs. 4 and 7, a pair of grooves (77, 78) is formed on the outer edge of the disk portion (71) of the water absorption member (70) so as to sandwich the flange portion (72). In other words, the pair of grooves (77, 78) is composed of a first groove (77) on the first ventilation surface (74) side and a second groove (78) on the second ventilation surface (75) side. The pair of grooves (77, 78) is formed in a concave shape recessed radially inward from the outer edge of the disk portion (71). The disk portion (71) is provided with six pairs of grooves (77, 78) at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The number of pairs of grooves (77, 78) is merely an example. The disk portion (71) is formed with an insertion hole (79) extending in the axial direction so as to communicate the pair of grooves (77, 78). The insertion hole (79) is provided for each pair of grooves (77, 78). The pair of grooves (77, 78) is located radially inward of the welded portion (76).
[0069] (3-4) Detailed bucket configuration The bucket (80) shown in FIGS. 8 to 12 constitutes a water container having an opening (80a). A water storage space (S) is formed inside the bucket (80). The opening (80a) of the bucket (80) faces the rotation direction of the rotary frame (45). The water storage space (S) is closed by the bucket (80) except in the rotation direction. In other words, the bucket (80) is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape with one end facing the rotation direction open and the other end opposite to the rotation direction closed. The bucket (80) of this embodiment extends in the circumferential direction of the rotary frame (45).
[0070] The bucket (80) has a first plate portion (81), a second plate portion (82), a third plate portion (83), and a fourth plate portion (84). The first plate portion (81) is located radially outward of the bucket (80). The second plate portion (82) is located radially inward of the bucket (80). The third plate portion (83) is located on the water absorption member (70) side in the axial direction. The fourth plate portion (84) is located on the opposite side to the water absorption member (70) in the axial direction. The fourth plate portion (84) is formed by a part of the base portion (52a) of the first frame body (52).
[0071] The third plate portion (83) has a first wall (83a), a second wall (83b), and a third wall (83c). The first wall (83a) is formed on the radially outer side of the third plate portion (83), and the second wall (83b) is formed on the radially inner side of the third plate portion (83). The first wall (83a) is located farther from the fourth plate portion (84) in the axial direction than the third wall (83c). The third wall (83c) is continuous with a radially inner end of the second wall (83b) and a radially inner end of the first wall (83a).
[0072] When viewed in a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X), the first plate portion (81) and the second plate portion (82) extend in the axial direction, and the fourth plate portion (84) extends in the radial direction. When viewed in a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X), the first wall (83a) and the second wall (83b) extend in the radial direction. When viewed in a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X), the third wall (83c) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) as it moves toward the opposite side to the water absorption member (70). Strictly speaking, the "cross section passing through the rotation axis (X)" means a cross section on an imaginary plane that passes through the rotation axis (X) and extends in the same direction as the rotation axis (X).
[0073] The water storage space (S) is formed inside the first plate portion (81), the second plate portion (82), the third plate portion (83), and the fourth plate portion (84). The water storage space (S) includes a first space (S1) and a second space (S2). The first space (S1) and the second space (S2) are formed across both ends in the rotation direction of the bucket (80). In other words, the first space (S1) and the second space (S2) are formed across from the closing portion on the opposite side in the rotation direction of the bucket (80) to the opening (80a). The first space (S1) is formed on the left side of the boundary line (B) in FIG. 11. The first space (S1) is formed between the first plate portion (81) and the second plate portion (82). The second space (S2) is formed on the right side of the boundary line (B). The second space (S2) is formed between the first plate portion (81) and the third wall (83c).
[0074] The boundary line (B) is a line (imaginary line) extending radially outward from the inside of the second wall (83b) when viewed in a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X). Specifically, the boundary line (B) is a line (imaginary line) passing through a radially outer end of the inner surface of the second wall (83b) and extending radially outward when viewed in a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X). The second wall (83b) is a wall facing the first ventilation surface (74) of the water-absorbing member (70).
[0075] The second space (S2) protrudes from the first space (S1) in the axial direction. In other words, the second space (S2) increases the axial width of the water storage space (S). Specifically, the second space (S2) protrudes from a radially outer portion of the first space (S1) toward the water absorption member (70) in the axial direction. The water absorption member (70) is disposed radially inward with respect to the second space (S2). In other words, the water absorption member (70) is located closer to the rotation axis (X) than the radially inner end of the second space (S2). The second space (S2) overlaps with the water absorption member (70) in the radial direction. The first space (S1) overlaps with the water absorption member (70) in the axial direction. This configuration can increase the volume of the water storage space (S). In addition, the rotary frame (45) can be prevented from becoming large in the radial direction. In addition, the rotary frame (45) can be prevented from becoming large in the axial direction.
[0076] 10, the second plate portion (82) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) in the direction of rotation. Strictly speaking, the inner surface on the (S1) side of the second plate portion (82) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) in the direction of rotation. This makes it easier to guide water from the water storage space (S) to the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) when the bucket (80) moves toward the upper side of the rotating frame (45).
[0077] 11, the third wall (83c) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) toward the first space (S1). Strictly speaking, a first surface (85) of the third wall (83c) on the second space (S2) side is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) toward the first space (S1). The first surface (85) constitutes a radially inner surface of the second space (S2) among the inner surfaces that form the second space (S2) of the bucket (80). This makes it easier to guide water from the second space (S2) to the first space (S1) when the bucket (80) moves upward relative to the rotary frame (45).
[0078] (3-5) Detailed structure of the guide The guide portion (90) shown in Figures 9, 10, and 12 guides water flowing out from the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) to the water absorbent member (70). The guide portion (90) is provided on the rotating frame (45) so as to be adjacent to the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) in the rotational direction. The guide portion (90) is located radially inward from the opening (80a) of the bucket (80).
[0079] The guide portion (90) has a recess (91) recessed radially inward. A spout (92) is formed inside the recess (91). As shown in FIG. 12, the spout (92) opens toward the water-absorbent member (70). Specifically, the spout (92) opens toward the first ventilating surface (74) of the water-absorbent member (70). The first ventilating surface (74) is the surface of the water-absorbent member (70) on the axial end side.
[0080] By locating the spout (92) so that it opens toward the first ventilation surface (74) of the water-absorbent member (70), the water in the bucket (80) is more likely to come into contact with the air passing through the water-absorbent member (70), thereby improving the humidification capacity of the water-absorbent member (70).
[0081] In particular, in the water-absorbent member (70) of this embodiment, a welded portion (76) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the disk portion (71) that is the main body of the water-absorbent member (70). If the spout (92) were to open toward the outer peripheral surface of the water-absorbent member (70), the welded portion (76) would prevent water flowing out from the spout (92) from moving into the water-absorbent member (70). In contrast, by opening the spout (92) toward the first ventilation surface (74), it is possible to prevent the welded portion (76) from blocking the movement of water into the water-absorbent member (70).
[0082] Furthermore, the spout (92) of this embodiment opens toward the first groove (77) on the first ventilation surface (74) side of the water absorbent member (70). The spout (92) and the first groove (77) face each other in the axial direction. This makes it easier for some of the water that passes through the spout (92) to flow into the water absorbent member (70) through the first groove (77).
[0083] The recess (91) has a first side wall (93), a second side wall (94), and a bottom wall (95). The first side wall (93) is continuous with the inner edge of the opening (80a) of the bucket (80). The second wall (83b) faces the first side wall (93). The first wall (83a) and the second wall (83b) extend in the radial direction when viewed in the axial direction. The bottom wall (95) extends in the circumferential direction from a radially inner end of the first side wall (93) to a radially inner end of the second side wall (94).
[0084] As shown in FIG. 10, the inner surface of the recess (91) includes a pair of side surfaces (96) facing each other in the circumferential direction of the rotary frame (45), a bottom surface (97) formed on the radially inner side, and arc-shaped arc surfaces (98) formed between the bottom surface (97) and each side surface (96). One of the pair of side surfaces (96) is the inner surface of the first side wall (93), and the other is the inner surface of the second side wall (94). The bottom surface (97) is formed on the inner surface of the bottom wall (95). Furthermore, the pair of side surfaces (96) correspond to the fourth surface of the present disclosure. The bottom surface (97) corresponds to the fifth surface and the guide surface of the present disclosure. The arc surfaces (98) correspond to the sixth surface of the present disclosure.
[0085] Water is likely to remain in each corner between each first side wall (93) and the bottom wall (95) due to surface tension. However, by forming the arcuate surfaces (98) at each corner, the surface tension can be reduced. As a result, water can be prevented from remaining in each corner between each first side wall (93) and the bottom wall (95).
[0086] The radius of curvature R1 of the arcuate surface 98 is preferably larger than the thickness of the walls forming the recess 91. Specifically, the radius of curvature R1 is preferably larger than the thicknesses of the first side wall 93, the second side wall 94, and the bottom wall 95. This can further prevent water from remaining in each corner.
[0087] As shown in FIG. 12, the bottom surface (97), which is the guide surface of the recess (91), has a second surface (97a) and a third surface (97b). The second surface (97a) is located on the rear side of the spout (92). The third surface (97b) is formed from the axial end of the second surface (97a) to the spout (92). The second surface (97a) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) as it approaches the spout (92). The third surface (97b) extends in the axial direction toward the spout (92).
[0088] The second surface (97a) is inclined, which prevents water from remaining behind the spout (92). The third surface (97b) extends in the axial direction, which prevents water from sliding down the second surface (97a) and flowing downward. In other words, water is guided by the third surface (97b) and supplied to the water-absorbent member (70) so as to be perpendicular to the first ventilation surface (74) of the water-absorbent member (70). This makes it easier for water to reach the inside of the water-absorbent member (70).
[0089] When viewed from a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X), the length of the second surface (97a) is L2, and the length of the third surface (97b) is L3. In this case, it is preferable that L3 is smaller than L2. If L3 is too long, water may remain on the bottom surface (97) due to the surface tension of the third surface (97b). It is preferable that L3 is ½ or less, and more preferably ⅓ or less, of L2. This can further prevent water from remaining on the bottom surface (97) of the guide portion (90).
[0090] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the guide portion (90) has a guide plate (99). The guide plate (99) is disposed on the radially opposite side of the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) with the spout (92) therebetween. The guide plate (99) has a flat surface (99a) that faces the opening (80a) of the bucket (80). The flat surface (99a) of the guide plate (99) faces the opposite side to the direction of rotation. The flat surface of the guide plate (99) is located radially outward and at the rear side in the direction of rotation relative to the second wall (83b). Water flowing out from the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) collides with the flat surface (99a) of the guide plate (99). The colliding water changes direction from the radial direction to the axial direction and is guided to the spout (92).
[0091] (3-6) Detailed structure of the holding part 12 and 13, the second frame (60) is provided with a holding portion (66). The holding portion (66) is provided to correspond to each spout (92). The holding portion (66) has a water shielding wall (66a), a fixing pin (66b) protruding from the water shielding wall (66a) toward the water absorbent member (70), and a fixing wall (66c) surrounding the fixing pin (66b).
[0092] The water shielding wall (66a) is located on the axially opposite side of the spout (92) with the water absorption member (70) in between. The water shielding wall (66a) faces the spout (92) via the water absorption member (70). The water shielding wall (66a) and the water absorption member (70) overlap in the axial direction. The area of the surface of the water shielding wall (66a) facing the spout (92) is larger than the opening area of the spout (92). The water shielding wall (66a) prevents water supplied from the spout (92) toward the water absorption member (70) from passing through the water absorption member (70). This makes it possible to increase the amount of water held inside the water absorption member (70).
[0093] The fixing pin (66b) is located at the center of the surface of the water impermeable wall (66a) facing the water absorbent member (70). The fixing pin (66b) is formed in a trapezoidal cone shape whose outer diameter decreases toward the water absorbent member (70). The fixing pin (66b) is inserted into an insertion hole (79) of the water absorbent member (70). The fixing pin (66b) fits into the insertion hole (79), thereby fixing the water absorbent member (70) to the second frame (60).
[0094] The fixed wall (66c) is formed in a U-shape with an open radially outward side when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction. An annular flange (67) protruding in the axial direction is formed on the surface of the second frame body (62) facing the water absorption member (70). Two radially outward ends of the fixed wall (66c) are continuous with the inner peripheral surface of the flange (67). The fixed wall (66c) fits into the second groove (78) of the water absorption member (70). The fixed wall (66c) fits into the water absorption member (70), thereby fixing the water absorption member (70) to the second frame (60).
[0095] As described above, the water impermeable wall (66a) is provided with the fixing pins (66b) and the fixing wall (66c) as fixing portions. The water impermeable wall (66a) not only serves as a member for preventing water from passing through the water absorbent member (70), but also serves as a member for fixing the water absorbent member (70).
[0096] (3-7) Water inlet As shown in Fig. 8, a plurality of second holes (55) and a plurality of third holes (57) are formed in the base (52a) of the first frame body (52). The second holes (55) and the third holes (57) form a water intake hole for supplying water to the bucket (80). The third hole (57) corresponds to the first bucket (80A). The second hole (55) corresponds to the second bucket (80B). The second hole (55) serves both as a water intake hole and an engagement hole for fixing the second bucket (80B) to the base (52a).
[0097] The second hole (55) is formed in a rectangular shape when viewed in the axial direction. The third hole (57) is formed in a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction. The second hole (55) is located forward of the opening (80a) of the second bucket (80B) in the rotational direction. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the third hole (57) is located forward of the opening (80a) of the first bucket (80A) in the rotational direction. When the second hole (55) is immersed in the water in the water tray (33), the water enters the interior of the second bucket (80B) through the second hole (55). When the third hole (57) is immersed in the water in the water tray (33), the water enters the interior of the first bucket (80A) through the third hole (57).
[0098] (4) Driving behavior The operation of the air purifier (10) will now be described.
[0099] (4-1) Basic operation of air purifier When the air purifier (10) is in operation, the fan (22), the discharge unit (23), the UV irradiation unit (24), and the humidification unit (30) are driven. As shown in Fig. 2, air from the target space is sucked into the air passage (P) through each of the first suction inlet (15), the second suction inlet (16), and the third suction inlet (20). The air sucked through the second suction inlet (16) and the third suction inlet (20) passes through each prefilter (21). The prefilter (21) collects relatively large dust particles in the air.
[0100] The air that has passed through the pre-filter (21) passes around the discharge unit (23) and the UV irradiation unit (24). The active species generated by the discharge unit (23) oxidize and decompose odorous and harmful components in the air. Viruses and bacteria in the air are killed by ultraviolet light emitted by the UV irradiation unit (24).
[0101] The air then passes through the HEPA filter (25) and the deodorizing filter (26), and then flows into the humidification space (31). The air in the humidification space (31) passes axially through the humidification rotor (44). During this process, water from the water-absorbing member (70) is added to the air. The air humidified by the humidification rotor (44) is supplied to the target space through the air outlet (12).
[0102] (4-2) Humidification unit operation When the air purifier (10) described above is in operation, the humidification unit (30) performs the following operation.
[0103] The drive mechanism (41) rotates the drive shaft (42). This causes the humidification rotor (44) to rotate about the rotation axis (X). When the rotary frame (45) rotates, the bucket (80) revolves around the axis of the rotation axis (X). When the bucket (80) moves below the rotary frame (45) and enters the water in the water tray (33), water enters the water storage space (S) of the bucket (80). When the bucket (80) moves upward and leaves the water in the water tray (33), water is pumped into the water storage space (S) of the bucket (80).
[0104] When the bucket (80) moves further upward and reaches a predetermined first angular position in front of the upper end of the rotary frame (45), the water in the water storage space (S) starts to flow down toward the opening (80a).
[0105] As the rotating frame (45) continues to rotate, the water that has passed through the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) is guided by the guide portion (90) to the spout (92). Specifically, in the guide portion (90), the water that has passed through the opening (80a) is sent along the bottom surface (97) to the spout (92). The water that has passed through the spout (92) is supplied to the inside of the water-absorbent member (70) through the first ventilation surface (74) of the water-absorbent member (70). The water in the water-absorbent member (70) is applied to the air flowing through the humidification space (31).
[0106] As the rotary frame 45 rotates further, the bucket 80 moves to the lower side of the rotary frame 45 and again enters the water in the water tray 33. The above-mentioned operation is continuously repeated.
[0107] (5) Effects of the embodiment The spout (92) opens toward the first ventilation surface (74) at one axial end of the water absorbent member (70).
[0108] In this configuration, water inside the bucket (80) is supplied to the first ventilation surface (74) through the spout (92). As a result, water can more easily reach the portion of the water absorbent member (70) through which air passes, thereby improving the humidification capacity of the water absorbent member (70).
[0109] In addition, water from the spout (92) is supplied to the inner circumferential surface side of the welded portion (76) of the water absorbent member (70), thereby preventing the welded portion (76) from interfering with the supply of water to the water absorbent member (70).
[0110] The spout (92) is provided on a first ventilation surface (74) which is the surface of the water absorbent member (70) on the air inlet side.
[0111] In this configuration, the water from the spout (92) is carried by the air flow and supplied to the first ventilation surface (74). In other words, the air flow can prevent the water from the spout (92) from splashing upstream. As a result, the amount of water supplied to the water absorbent member (70) increases, improving the humidification capacity of the water absorbent member (70).
[0112] A water storage space (S) is formed inside the bucket (80) and includes a first space (S1) and a second space (S2) protruding in the axial direction from the first space (S1).
[0113] In this configuration, the water storage space (S) of the bucket (80) can be enlarged by the second space (S2).
[0114] The second space (S2) protrudes in the axial direction from a radially outer portion of the first space (S1) of the rotary frame (45). The water absorbing member (70) is disposed radially inward of the rotary frame (45) with respect to the second space (S2).
[0115] In this configuration, the rotary frame (45) is disposed inside the second space (S2), and therefore the volume of the water storage space (S) can be increased while the outer diameter of the rotary frame (45) is reduced.
[0116] Of the inner surfaces forming the second space (S2) in the bucket (80), a first surface (85) on the radially inner side of the second space (S2) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) of the rotating frame (45) as it approaches the first space (S1).
[0117] In this configuration, when the water scooping portion (80) is located above the rotary frame (45), water accumulated in the second space (S2) is likely to flow down into the first space (S1) due to its own weight. Therefore, water in the bucket (80) can be quickly supplied to the water absorption member (70). For example, water can be supplied to the water absorption member (70) when the bucket (80) is in the first angular position. Here, the first angular position is a position that, when viewed from the axial direction, forms a predetermined angle with respect to a line segment connecting the upper end of the rotary frame (45) and the rotary axis (X) as a reference, on the opposite side of the rotational direction from this line segment. By inclining the first surface (85), the first angular position is, for example, within a range of 30° to 60°.
[0118] The rotary frame (45) is provided with a water impermeable wall (66a) located on the axially opposite side of the spout (92) with the water absorbing member (70) sandwiched therebetween.
[0119] In this configuration, the water shielding wall (66a) can prevent water supplied from the spout (92) to the first ventilation surface (74) from escaping through the water absorbent member (70) to the outside through the second ventilation surface (75). As a result, the amount of moisture held in the water absorbent member (70) can be increased, improving the humidification capacity of the water absorbent member (70).
[0120] The water impermeable wall (66a) is provided with fixing pins (66b) and a fixing wall (66c) as fixing parts for fixing the water absorbing member (70).
[0121] In this configuration, the water impermeable wall (66a) serves both as a member for suppressing water permeation through the water absorbent member (70) and as a member for fixing the water absorbent member (70), thereby making it possible to reduce the number of parts of the rotating frame (45).
[0122] The rotary frame (45) is formed with a bottom surface (97) that guides water from the bucket (80) to the spout (92). The bottom surface (97) is composed of a second surface (97a) that is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) as it approaches the spout (92), and a third surface (97b) that extends in the axial direction from the second surface (97a) to the spout (92). In this configuration, when the bucket (80) moves to the upper side of the rotating frame (45), the water on the second surface (97a) is likely to move toward the spout (92) due to its own weight. This makes it possible to prevent water from remaining on the bottom surface of the guide portion (90), thereby increasing the amount of water supplied to the water absorbent member (70).
[0123] In addition, the water flowing over the second surface (97a) is guided in the axial direction by the third surface (97b), which prevents the water from flowing downward and makes it easier for the water to reach the portion of the water absorbent member (70) through which air passes.
[0124] When viewed from a cross section passing through the rotation axis, the length L3 of the third surface (97b) is equal to or less than half the length L2 of the second surface (97a).
[0125] In this configuration, the surface tension of the third surface (97b) can prevent water from remaining on the third surface (97b), thereby increasing the amount of water supplied to the water absorbent member (70).
[0126] The inner surface of the recess (91) forming the spout (92) includes a pair of side surfaces (96) facing each other in the circumferential direction of the rotating frame (45), a bottom surface (97) formed radially inward, and arc-shaped arc surfaces (98) formed between each of the side surfaces (96) and the bottom surface (97).
[0127] In this configuration, arcuate surfaces (98) are formed at the corners of the inner surface of the recess (91). This makes it possible to prevent water from remaining in the corners of the recess (91), thereby improving the humidifying capacity of the water absorbent member (70).
[0128] (6) Variations The above embodiment may be modified as follows.
[0129] (6-1) Variation 1 14, in the guide portion (90) of the first modification, the second surface (97a) of the bottom surface (97) extends to the spout (92) while inclining toward the rotation axis (X) of the rotating frame (45) as it approaches the spout (92). In this configuration, the second surface (97a) is formed up to the spout (92), which further prevents water from remaining on the bottom surface (97).
[0130] (6-2) Variation 2 The spout (92) may open toward the second ventilation surface (75), which is the surface on the end side of the water-absorbent member (70). Even in this configuration, water can easily reach the portion of the water-absorbent member (70) through which air passes, thereby improving the humidification capacity of the water-absorbent member (70). In addition, water from the spout (92) is supplied to the inner circumferential surface side of the welded portion (76) of the water-absorbent member (70). This makes it possible to prevent the welded portion (76) from interfering with the supply of water to the water-absorbent member (70).
[0131] (7) Other embodiments The humidifier may be a device other than the air purifier (10). The humidifier may be an air conditioner that adjusts the temperature of the air in the target space, a humidity control device that adjusts the humidity of the air in the target space, or a ventilation device that ventilates the target space.
[0132] The drive mechanism (41) may have a gear that meshes with a gear formed on the outer circumferential surface of the humidification rotor (44), and a drive shaft that rotates the gear.
[0133] The water scooping upper portion (80) may be a dish, a container, or a recess formed in the rotating frame (45) capable of scooping up water from the water reservoir (33).
[0134] The water storage section (33) may be a tank or a container as long as it can store water.
[0135] The spout (92) may be formed in the bucket (80). In other words, the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) may also serve as the spout (92).
[0136] In the first frame (50), the first bucket (80A) and the second bucket (80B) may be integrally formed as the same part.
[0137] (8) Reference form In the reference form, in the configurations of the above-described embodiments, variants, and other embodiments, the spout (92) opens toward the outer peripheral surface of the water-absorbent member (70) rather than toward the axial end of the water-absorbent member (70).
[0138] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications of form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be appropriately combined or substituted as long as the functions of the subject of the present disclosure are not impaired.
[0139] The descriptions "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the words to which these descriptions are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the words. [Industrial Applicability]
[0140] INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the present disclosure is useful for a humidification device. [Explanation of symbols]
[0141] 33 Water tray (water storage section) 40 Humidification mechanism 41 Drive mechanism 45 Rotating Frame 66a Water-impermeable wall (wall) 66b Fixing pin (fixing part) 66c Fixed wall (fixed part) 70 Water absorbing material 74 1st ventilation surface (ventilation surface) 80 Bucket (top of water scoop) 80a aperture 85 Page 1 91 Recess 92 Spout 96 Side (4th side) 97 Bottom surface (5th surface, guide surface) 97a 2nd page 97b 3rd page 98 Arc surface (6th surface) S1 1st space S2 2nd space X Rotation Axis
Claims
1. a humidification mechanism (40) including a rotary frame (45) rotated by a drive mechanism (41) and a water absorbing member (70) held by the rotary frame (45) and through which air passes in the axial direction of the rotary frame (45); a water storage section (33) that stores water to be supplied to the water absorption member (70), The rotary frame (45) is provided with a water pumping portion (80) for pumping up water in the water storage portion (33) and a spout (92) for pouring the water pumped up by the water pumping portion (80) into the water absorption member (70), The spout (92) opens toward a ventilation surface (74) at an end side in the axial direction of the water absorbent member (70), A water storage space (S) is formed inside the water scooping portion (80), and includes a first space (S1) and a second space (S2) protruding from the first space (S1) in the axial direction. humidifier.
2. The ventilation surface (74) is an air inflow side surface of the water absorbing member (70). The humidification device according to claim 1 .
3. the second space (S2) protrudes in the axial direction from a portion of the first space (S1) that is on a radially outer side of the rotary frame (45), The water absorbing member (70) is disposed radially inward of the rotary frame (45) with respect to the second space (S2). The humidification device according to claim 1 .
4. Among the inner surfaces forming the second space (S2) in the water scooping portion (80), a first surface (85) on the radially inner side of the second space (S2) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) of the rotary frame (45) toward the first space (S1). The humidifier according to claim 3.
5. The rotating frame (45) is provided with a wall (66a) located on the opposite side of the spout (92) in the axial direction with the water absorbing member (70) interposed therebetween. The humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
6. The wall (66a) is provided with fixing portions (66b, 66c) for fixing the water absorbing member (70). The humidifier according to claim 5.
7. The rotary frame (45) is formed with a guide surface (97) for guiding the water from the water scooping portion (80) to the spout (92), The guide surface (97) a second surface (97a) that is inclined toward the rotation axis of the rotary frame (45) toward the spout (92), and a third surface (97b) that extends in the axial direction from the second surface (97a) to the spout (92), When viewed from a cross section passing through the rotation axis, the length of the third surface (97b) is equal to or less than half the length of the second surface (97a). The humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
8. The rotary frame (45) is formed with a guide surface (97) for guiding the water from the water scooping portion (80) to the spout (92), The guide surface (97) a second surface (97a) that extends to the spout (92) while inclining toward the axis of rotation of the rotating frame (45) as it approaches the spout (92); The humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
9. The rotary frame (45) is provided with a recess (91) recessed radially inwardly of the rotary frame (45) so as to form the spout (92) therein, The inner surface of the recess (91) includes a pair of fourth surfaces (96) facing each other in the circumferential direction of the rotary frame (45), a fifth surface (97) formed on the radially inner side, and an arc-shaped sixth surface (98) formed between each of the fourth surfaces (96) and the fifth surface (97). The humidifier according to any one of claims 1 to 4.
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