Airflow Control System

Abstract

The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an airflow control system that can control the diffusion of airflow. This airflow control system (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) comprises a tubular body (2), a fan (3), a first rectifying mechanism (4a, 4b), a second rectifying mechanism (5a, 5b), and an airflow control unit (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d). The tubular body (2) has a gas inflow port (23) on a first end (21), a gas outflow port (24) on a second end (22), and a flow path (25) connecting the inflow port (23) and the outflow port (24), the flow path (25) having a circular cross-section. The fan (3) is disposed inside the tubular body (2) and generates airflow, which is a flow of air. The first rectifying mechanism (4a, 4b) is positioned between the fan (3) and the outflow port (24) in an axial direction (D1) of the tubular body (2) and diverts the airflow. The second rectifying mechanism (5a, 5b) is positioned between the first rectifying mechanism (4a, 4b) and the outflow port (24) in the axial direction (D) and aligns the orientation of the airflow with an orientation along the axial direction (D1). The airflow control unit (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) changes the rectifying state of the airflow.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to an airflow control system, and more particularly to an airflow control system including a fan. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a fluid flow blowout control device that realizes concentrated blowout to a required area.

[0003] The fluid flow blowing control device disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a deflector plate and a guide member. The fluid flow blowing control device is configured so that the airflow is guided by the deflector plate and the guide member to blow out in an annular shape, and the blown out annular airflow has a high speed on the outside and a low speed on the inside. Therefore, the annular airflow has a smaller expansion angle than the free blown airflow.

[0004] The fluid blowout control device (airflow control system) described in Patent Document 1 includes a deflector plate and a guide member, which suppresses the diffusion of the airflow and realizes concentrated blowout to a required area. However, since the deflector plate and the guide member are configured so that the airflow always blows out in a circular shape, there is a problem in that the diffusion of the airflow cannot be controlled. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 6-87325 Summary of the Invention

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an airflow control system that can control the diffusion of airflow.

[0007] An airflow control system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cylinder, a fan, a first rectification mechanism, a second rectification mechanism, and an airflow control unit. The cylinder has a gas inlet at a first end and a gas outlet at a second end, and has a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet, the flow path having a circular cross section. The fan is disposed inside the cylinder and generates an airflow, which is a flow of gas. The first rectification mechanism is located between the fan and the outlet in the axial direction of the cylinder and redirects the airflow. The second rectification mechanism is located between the first rectification mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction and aligns the direction of the airflow to a direction along the axial direction. The airflow control unit changes the rectification state of the airflow. The first straightening mechanism has a cylindrical tube portion and a plurality of fins, and functions as the airflow control portion. The plurality of fins protrude from an inner peripheral surface of the tube portion toward a central axis of the tube portion, are aligned in a direction along the inner peripheral surface, and are configured to be rotatable about an end portion on the inner peripheral surface side as a fulcrum. The plurality of fins are configured to be rotatable between a closed position in which the plurality of fins protrude toward the central axis and an open position in which the plurality of fins are aligned along the inner peripheral surface. An airflow control system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cylinder, a fan, a first rectification mechanism, a second rectification mechanism, and an airflow control unit. The cylinder has an inlet for gas at a first end, an outlet for gas at a second end, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet, the cross section of the flow path being circular. The fan is disposed inside the cylinder and generates an airflow, which is a flow of gas. The first rectification mechanism is located between the fan and the outlet in the axial direction of the cylinder and redirects the airflow. The second rectification mechanism is located between the first rectification mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction and aligns the direction of the airflow to a direction along the axial direction. The airflow control unit changes the rectification state of the airflow. The first rectification mechanism has a cylindrical cylinder and a plurality of fins. The plurality of fins protrude from an inner peripheral surface of the cylinder toward a central axis of the cylinder and are aligned in a direction along the inner peripheral surface. The airflow control unit includes a tube and a tube movement mechanism. The tube includes a cylindrical main body and at least one notch into which at least one of the fins is inserted at an end of the main body on the first rectification mechanism side. The tube movement mechanism moves the tube along the axial direction between a position where the at least one fin is inserted into the at least one notch and a position where the at least one fin is not inserted into the at least one notch. An airflow control system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cylinder, a fan, a first rectification mechanism, a second rectification mechanism, and an airflow control unit. The cylinder has an inlet for gas at a first end, an outlet for gas at a second end, a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet, and a cross section of the flow path is circular. The fan is disposed inside the cylinder and generates an airflow, which is a flow of gas. The first rectification mechanism is located between the fan and the outlet in the axial direction of the cylinder and redirects the airflow. The second rectification mechanism is located between the first rectification mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction and aligns the direction of the airflow to a direction along the axial direction. The airflow control unit changes the rectification state of the airflow. The second rectification mechanism has a rectification grid in which a plurality of long partition plate parts are arranged in a grid pattern. At least one of the plurality of partition plate sections is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis along the longitudinal direction of the partition plate section, and functions as the airflow control section. An airflow control system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a cylinder, a fan, a first rectification mechanism, a second rectification mechanism, and an airflow control unit. The cylinder has an inlet for gas at a first end, an outlet for gas at a second end, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet, the cross section of the flow path being circular. The fan is disposed inside the cylinder and generates an airflow, which is a flow of gas. The first rectification mechanism is located between the fan and the outlet in the axial direction of the cylinder and turns the airflow. The second rectification mechanism is located between the first rectification mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction and aligns the direction of the airflow to a direction along the axial direction. The airflow control unit changes the rectification state of the airflow. The airflow control unit includes an obstacle and at least one of an obstacle rotation mechanism and an obstacle movement mechanism. The obstacle is located between the second rectification mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction. The obstacle rotation mechanism rotates the obstacle portion inside the cylindrical body. The obstacle movement mechanism moves the obstacle portion inside the cylindrical body. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the airflow control system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the airflow control system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of a fan in the airflow control system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first rectification mechanism in the airflow control system. [Diagram 5] 5A to 5D are plan views of a first rectification mechanism in the airflow control system. [Figure 6] 6A and 6B are explanatory diagrams of a rotational operation of the first rectification mechanism in the airflow control system. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a plan view of a second flow straightening mechanism in the airflow control system. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of an airflow control system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the airflow control section and the first rectification mechanism of the airflow control system in a different state. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the airflow control system. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the airflow control system in a different state. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the airflow control system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] 13A and 13B are explanatory diagrams of the pivoting operation of the partition plate portion in the airflow control system. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the airflow control system. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the airflow control system in a different state. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the airflow control system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the airflow control system. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the airflow control system in a different state. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram of an airflow control system according to a modified example of the above embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] (Embodiment 1) (1-1) Overview An outline of an airflow control system 1a according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0010] The airflow control system 1a is used for space zoning in a facility, for example. Space zoning is air zoning, and means creating an air environment in a specific area in a target space without creating physical barriers such as walls or partitions. The facility is, for example, an office building. The target space is, for example, a free address office in the office building. The target space is not limited to a free address office, and may be, for example, a conference room space, etc.

[0011] Examples of facilities include office buildings, as well as hotels, hospitals, educational facilities, detached houses, apartment complexes (dwelling units and common areas), stores, commercial facilities, art galleries, and museums.Facilities may also include not only buildings, but also the grounds on which the buildings stand, and examples of such facilities include factories, parks, amusement facilities, theme parks, airports, train stations, and domed stadiums.

[0012] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the airflow control system 1a includes a cylindrical body 2, a fan 3, a first straightening mechanism 4a, a second straightening mechanism 5a, and an airflow control unit 6a.

[0013] The cylinder 2 has a gas inlet 23 at a first end 21, a gas outlet 24 at a second end 22, and a flow path 25 connecting the inlet 23 and the outlet 24. The cross section of the flow path 25 is circular.

[0014] The fan 3 is disposed inside the cylindrical body 2. The fan 3 generates an airflow, which is a flow of gas.

[0015] As shown in Fig. 2, the first rectification mechanism 4a is located between the fan 3 and the outlet 24 in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. Note that the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body shown in Fig. 2 is a direction along the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2. In addition, the first rectification mechanism 4a redirects the airflow.

[0016] The second rectification mechanism 5a is located in the axial direction D1 between the first rectification mechanism 4a and the outlet 24. The second rectification mechanism 5a aligns the direction of the airflow to the direction along the axial direction D1.

[0017] The airflow control unit 6a changes the rectification state of the airflow. The airflow control unit 6a changes the rectification state of the airflow rectified by at least one of the first rectification mechanism 4a and the second rectification mechanism 5a, and controls the diffusion of the airflow.

[0018] From the above, the airflow control system 1a has the advantage of being able to control the diffusion of the airflow.

[0019] (1-2) Detailed structure A detailed configuration of the airflow control system 1a of the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0020] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the airflow control system 1a includes a cylindrical body 2, a fan 3, a first straightening mechanism 4a, a second straightening mechanism 5a, and an airflow control unit 6a.

[0021] (cylindrical body) The cylindrical body 2 has a first end 21 and a second end 22, a gas inlet 23 at the first end 21, and a gas outlet 24 at the second end 22. The cylindrical body 2 has a flow path 25 connecting the inlet 23 and the outlet 24. The cross section of the flow path 25 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction D1 is circular. The gas flows in from the inlet 23, passes through the flow path 25, and flows out from the outlet 24. In other words, the flow path 25 is a path through which the gas passes from the inlet 23 to the outlet 24.

[0022] The cylindrical body 2 may be a structure having a flow path 25 with a circular cross section, and the outer shape of the cylindrical body 2 is not limited. In the first embodiment, the outer shape of the cylindrical body 2 is cylindrical. The outer shape of the cylindrical body 2 may be, for example, a prismatic shape. That is, the cylindrical body 2 may be a prismatic shape having a flow path 25 with a circular cross section.

[0023] The material of the cylindrical body 2 is, for example, metal or resin, but is not limited to this.

[0024] (fan) 1, the fan 3 includes a rotor (hub) 31, a plurality of (for example, seven) blades (rotor blades) 32, a fan housing 33, and a motor 36. The fan 3 is made of a material such as resin or metal.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, the rotor 31 can rotate around the rotation axis 30 in a rotation direction R1. When viewed from the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the outer edge of the rotor 31 is circular. As shown in FIG. 2, the rotor 31 is arranged coaxially with the cylindrical body 2 inside the cylindrical body 2. "The rotor 31 is arranged coaxially with the cylindrical body 2" means that the rotor 31 is arranged so that the rotation axis 30 of the rotor 31 is aligned with the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2. In the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the length of the rotor 31 is shorter than the length of the cylindrical body 2. The rotor 31 is a bottomed cylindrical shape having a cylindrical portion 311 and a bottom wall 312, and is arranged so that the bottom wall 312 is on the inlet 23 side. The rotor 31 has a boss portion 313 protruding from the center of the bottom wall 312 to the opposite side to the inlet 23 side.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3, the blades 32 are disposed between the rotor 31 and the fan housing 33, and rotate together with the rotor 31. The blades 32 are connected to the rotor 31 and protrude from the outer peripheral surface 316 of the rotor 31 toward the inner peripheral surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2. When viewed from the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the blades 32 protrude radially from the rotor 31. Each of the blades 32 is disposed such that a gap is formed between each blade 32 and the inner peripheral surface 333 of the fan housing 33 when viewed from the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. In other words, in the fan 3, there is a gap between each of the blades 32 and the inner peripheral surface 333 of the fan housing 33. The blades 32 are disposed at equal intervals when viewed from the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. The term "equally spaced" as used herein is not limited to the case where the blades are spaced exactly the same from each other, and may be, for example, an interval within a predetermined error range (for example, ±10% of the specified interval) with respect to the specified interval. In each of the plurality of blades 32, a first end 321 on the inlet 23 side is located forward of a second end 322 on the outlet 24 side in terms of the rotation direction R1 of the rotor 31 of the fan 3.

[0027] The fan housing 33 rotatably houses the rotor 31 and the plurality of blades 32. The fan housing 33 is cylindrical. The outer diameter of the fan housing 33 is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 2. In the fan 3, the fan housing 33 is fixed to the cylindrical body 2, for example.

[0028] The motor 36 drives the rotor 31 to rotate. More specifically, the motor 36 rotates the rotor 31 around the rotation shaft 30 of the rotor 31. The motor 36 is, for example, a DC motor. The motor 36 includes a motor body 361 and a rotation shaft portion 362 partially protruding from the motor body 361. In the motor 36, the rotation shaft portion 362 is connected to the rotor 31. The rotation shaft portion 362 of the motor 36 is fixed to a boss portion 313 of the rotor 31. The motor 36 may be integrated with the rotor 31.

[0029] (1st rectification mechanism) 1, the first rectification mechanism 4a has a cylindrical tube portion 41, a plurality of (e.g., 12) fins 42a, and an operation portion 46. As shown in FIG. 2, the first rectification mechanism 4a is located between the fan 3 and the outlet 24 in the axial direction D1 of the tube body 2.

[0030] The outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 41 is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 2. The inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 41 is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the fan housing 33.

[0031] The operating portion 46 is cylindrical. The outer diameter of the operating portion 46 is smaller than the inner diameter of the tube portion 41. Therefore, the operating portion 46 is configured to be rotatable relative to the tube portion 41 in a direction along the inner circumference of the cylindrical body 2. In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, the operating portion 46 has a plurality of grooves 461 through which the plurality of fins 42a penetrate. In the direction along the inner circumference of the cylindrical body 2, the width of each of the plurality of grooves 461 is greater than the thickness of each of the plurality of fins 42a.

[0032] 2, in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the length of the operating part 46 is shorter than the length of the cylindrical portion 41. Note that the length of the operating part 46 is not limited to being shorter than the length of the cylindrical portion 41, and may be longer than the cylindrical portion 41 or may be the same as the length of the cylindrical portion 41.

[0033] An end portion of the operation portion 46 on the inlet 23 side is at the same position as an end portion of the cylindrical portion 41 on the inlet 23 side in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0034] 5A, the multiple fins 42a protrude from the inner circumferential surface 413 of the tubular portion 41 toward the central axis 40 of the tubular portion 41, are aligned in a direction along the inner circumferential surface 413, and are configured to be rotatable about an end portion 423 on the inner circumferential surface 413 side as a fulcrum. Therefore, the first rectification mechanism 4a functions as an airflow control portion 6a.

[0035] Each of the multiple fins 42a is disposed parallel to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 between the inner circumferential surface 413 of the cylindrical portion 41 and the central axis 40 of the cylindrical portion 41. Each of the multiple fins 42a has a first end 421 (see FIG. 2) on the inlet 23 side and a second end 422 (see FIG. 2) on the outlet 24 side in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. In each of the multiple fins 42a, the first end 421 and the second end 422 overlap when viewed from the axial direction D1.

[0036] The ends 423 of the multiple fins 42a are disposed at equal intervals in a direction along the inner circumference of the tubular portion 41 as shown in FIG. 5A. The term "equally spaced" here does not necessarily mean exactly the same intervals, but may mean, for example, an interval within a predetermined error range (for example, ±10% of the specified interval) with respect to a specified interval. The first rectification mechanism 4a has multiple (for example, 12) rectification paths 45 surrounded by two adjacent fins 42a among the multiple fins 42a and the tubular portion 41. When viewed from the axial direction D1 of the tubular body 2, the width of the rectification path 45 in the direction along the inner circumference of the tubular portion 41 becomes narrower as it approaches the central axis 40 of the tubular portion 41 from the inner circumferential surface 413 of the tubular portion 41.

[0037] 2, in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the length of each of the multiple fins 42a is shorter than the length of the cylindrical portion 41. The length of each of the multiple fins 42a is not limited to being shorter than the length of the cylindrical portion 41, and may be longer than the length of the cylindrical portion 41 or may be the same as the length of the cylindrical portion 41.

[0038] Second ends 422 of the multiple fins 42a are disposed so as to be at the same position as the end of the cylindrical portion 41 on the outlet 24 side in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 5A, each of the fins 42a has an arc-shaped arc plate portion 425 and a curved portion 426. In each of the fins 42a, the arc plate portion 425 is located on the central axis 40 side, and the curved portion 426 is located on the inner circumferential surface 413 side. The arc plate portion 425 has a first surface 43 that intersects with the direction along the inner periphery of the cylindrical body 2, and a second surface 44 that intersects with the direction along the inner periphery of the cylindrical body 2 and is opposite to the first surface 43. The first surface 43 is a surface located rearward in the direction along the rotation direction R1 of the rotating body 31, and the second surface 44 is a surface located forward in the direction along the rotation direction R1 of the rotating body 31. The first surface 43 is a concave curved surface. The second surface 44 is a convex curved surface. As shown in FIG. 4, the curved portion 426 is a portion that is inserted into the groove portion 461 of the operating portion 46 in each of the fins 42a.

[0040] The rotational movement of the fins 42a will be described. The fins 42a are configured to be rotatable between a closed position (see FIG. 5A) in which the fins 42a protrude toward the central axis 40 and an open position (see FIG. 5D) in which the fins 42a are aligned along the inner circumferential surface 413 of the tubular portion 41. When the fins 42a are in the closed position, the ends 424 of the fins 42a on the central axis 40 side are gathered on the central axis 40 of the tubular portion 41, as shown in FIG. 5A. When the fins 42a are in the closed position, the ends 424 of the fins 42a on the central axis 40 side are not limited to being gathered on the central axis 40 of the tubular portion 41, but may be gathered at any one point inside the tubular portion 41. The end 424 on the central axis 40 side here refers to the end of each of the fins 42a opposite to the end 423 on the inner circumferential surface 413 side. On the other hand, when the fins 42a are in the open position, as shown in Fig. 5D, the ends 424 of the fins 42a on the central axis 40 side approach the inner circumferential surface 413 of the tubular portion 41. The fins 42a move between the closed position and the closed position by rotating about the ends 423 on the inner circumferential surface 413 side as a fulcrum (see Figs. 5B and 5C).

[0041] A more detailed description will be given. Figures 6A and 6B are explanatory diagrams of the rotational operation of the first rectifying mechanism 4a, and Figure 6A is an enlarged plan view of a part of the first rectifying mechanism 4a when the multiple fins 42a are in the closed position. Meanwhile, Figure 6B is an enlarged plan view of a part of the first rectifying mechanism 4a immediately after the multiple fins 42a have rotated, and the closed position of the multiple fins 42a is indicated by a broken line. By fixing the tube portion 41 and rotating the operation unit 46 in a direction along the inner circumference of the tube body 2, the multiple fins 42a rotate around the end 423 on the inner circumference surface 413 side as a fulcrum. In other words, by fixing the tube portion 41 and rotating the operation unit 46 in a direction along the inner circumference of the tube body 2, the multiple fins 42a transition between the closed position and the open position.

[0042] 6B, by fixing the tube portion 41 and rotating the operation portion 46 in the rotation direction R21, the end portions 424 of the fins 42a on the central axis 40 side move away from the central axis 40, and the fins 42a move from the closed position to the open position. On the other hand, by fixing the tube portion 41 and rotating the operation portion 46 in the rotation direction R22, the end portions 424 of the fins 42a on the central axis 40 side move closer to the central axis 40, and the fins 42a move from the open position to the closed position.

[0043] The material of the first flow straightening mechanism 4 is metal, but is not limited to this, and may be resin.

[0044] (Second rectification mechanism) 2, the second rectification mechanism 5a is located between the first rectification mechanism 4a and the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2 in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. The second rectification mechanism 5a has a plurality of rectification paths 55 along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. Each of the plurality of rectification paths 55 has an inlet 551 on the side of the first rectification mechanism 4a and an outlet 552 on the side of the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2. The inlet 551 of each of the plurality of rectification paths 55 and the outlet 552 of the corresponding rectification path 55 have the same shape and size.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 1, the second rectification mechanism 5a has a rectification grid 50a and a cylindrical tube portion 51 surrounding the rectification grid 50a. The rectification grid 50a has a plurality of partition plate portions 56 (see FIG. 2) that partition any two adjacent rectification paths 55 out of the plurality of rectification paths 55. Each of the plurality of partition plate portions 56 is arranged along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. The rectification grid 50a has a honeycomb lattice shape (see FIG. 7). Here, when viewed from the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the inlet 551 and the outlet 552 of each of the plurality of rectification paths 55 are regular hexagonal. In other words, each of the plurality of rectification paths 55 is hexagonal prism-shaped. However, the inlet 551 and the outlet 552 of each of the rectification paths 55 in contact with the cylindrical portion 51 are not limited to a regular hexagonal shape. In other words, the rectification paths 55 in contact with the cylindrical portion 51 are not limited to a hexagonal prism-shaped shape. The flow straightening grid 50a is not limited to a honeycomb grid, and may be a grid of a plurality of long partition plate portions arranged in a grid pattern.

[0046] The outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 51 is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the cylindrical body 2. The second flow straightening mechanism 5a is disposed inside the cylindrical body 2 such that the central axis of the cylindrical portion 51 coincides with the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0047] The material of the second flow straightening mechanism 5a is resin, but is not limited to this, and may be metal.

[0048] (1-3) Operation of the airflow control system In the airflow control system 1a according to the first embodiment, the rotor 31 and the blades 32 of the fan 3 rotate in a predetermined rotational direction R1 (see FIG. 3), so that air is drawn into the fan 3 from the inlet 23 side of the cylindrical body 2. Then, inside the cylindrical body 2, on the downstream side of the fan 3, an airflow F1 (see FIG. 3) is generated that swirls inside the cylindrical body 2 along the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2. The swirling airflow F1 is an airflow that rotates in a three-dimensional spiral.

[0049] When the multiple fins 42a of the first rectification mechanism 4a are in the closed position, the airflow F1 that is generated downstream of the fan 3 and swirls near the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 along the inner circumferential surface 27 is redirected in the first rectification mechanism 4a in a direction approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4a. More specifically, in the first rectification mechanism 4a, the airflow F1 that has been swirling along the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 collides with the fins 42a, and is redirected into an airflow F2 (see FIG. 5A) approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4a. In short, in the airflow control system 1a, the first rectification mechanism 4a forms a speed distribution in which the speed of the airflow on the inside is relatively fast and the speed of the airflow on the outside is relatively slow, so that the degree of diffusion of the airflow can be reduced. Here, the speed of the airflow is the speed along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0050] On the other hand, when the multiple fins 42a of the first rectification mechanism 4a are in the open position, the airflow F1 that is generated downstream of the fan 3 and swirls near the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 along the inner circumferential surface 27 is not redirected in the first rectification mechanism 4a in a direction approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4a. More specifically, in the first rectification mechanism 4a, the airflow F1 that swirls along the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 does not collide with the fins 42a, and the airflow F1 becomes an airflow F3 (see FIG. 5D) that swirls inside the cylindrical portion 41 along the inner circumferential surface 413 of the cylindrical portion 41. Therefore, the airflow control system 1a when the multiple fins 42a of the first rectification mechanism 4a are in the open position can increase the diffusion degree of the airflow compared to when the multiple fins 42a of the first rectification mechanism 4a are in the closed position.

[0051] In the airflow control system 1a, the direction of the airflow from the first rectification mechanism 4a side is rectified to the direction along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 by the second rectification mechanism 5a downstream of the first rectification mechanism 4a.

[0052] In the airflow control system 1a, the airflow rectified by the second rectification mechanism 5a flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0053] (1-4) Effects The airflow control system 1a according to the first embodiment is capable of controlling the diffusion of the airflow. More specifically, in the airflow control system 1a, by rotating the multiple fins 42a between a closed position and an open position, the rectification state of the airflow rectified by the first rectification mechanism 4a and the second rectification mechanism 5a can be changed, and the diffusion degree of the airflow can be adjusted.

[0054] Furthermore, in the airflow control system 1a, the first straightening mechanism 4a functions as the airflow control unit 6a, so there is no need to provide a new component for adjusting the diffusion degree of the airflow, making it possible to suppress an increase in the number of components.

[0055] (1-5) Variations Below, we will list some modified examples of the first embodiment. The following modified examples may be implemented in appropriate combination.

[0056] Each of the fins 42a in the first embodiment has an arc-shaped arc plate portion 425 and a curved portion 426, but the shape of the fins 42a is not limited to a specific shape. That is, each of the fins 42a may protrude from the inner circumferential surface 413 of the cylindrical portion 41 toward the central axis 40 of the cylindrical portion 41. For example, each of the fins 42a may not have the curved portion 426.

[0057] In the first embodiment, each of the fins 42a is configured such that, by fixing the cylindrical portion 41 and rotating the operation unit 46 in the rotation direction R21 (see FIG. 6B), the end 424 of the fins 42a on the central axis 40 side moves away from the central axis 40, and the fins 42a transition from the closed position to the open position. However, each of the fins 42a may be configured such that, by fixing the cylindrical portion 41 and rotating the operation unit 46 in the rotation direction R22 (see FIG. 6B), the end 424 of the fins 42a on the central axis 40 side moves away from the central axis 40, and the fins 42a transition from the closed position to the open position. In other words, each of the fins 42a in the first embodiment may be configured such that, by fixing the cylindrical portion 41 and rotating the operation unit 46 in the rotation direction R21, the end 424 of the fins 42a on the central axis 40 side moves closer to the central axis 40, and the fins 42a transition from the open position to the closed position.

[0058] Although each of the fins 42a penetrates the grooves 461 in the first embodiment, it is sufficient that at least a portion of the fins 42a penetrates the grooves 461.

[0059] (Embodiment 2) (2-1) Details An airflow control system 1b according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 8 to 11. Configurations similar to those in the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 8, an airflow control system 1b of the second embodiment includes a cylindrical body 2, a fan 3, a first rectification mechanism 4b, a second rectification mechanism 5a, and an airflow control unit 6b.

[0061] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the first rectification mechanism 4b does not function as the airflow control part 6b, and the airflow control system 1b has the airflow control part 6b as a separate body. More specifically, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the multiple fins 42b of the first rectification mechanism 4b do not rotate, and the airflow control part 6b is inserted into the first rectification mechanism 4b as shown in FIG. 9 to adjust the degree of diffusion of the airflow.

[0062] (1st rectification mechanism) As shown in Fig. 10, the first rectification mechanism 4b is located between the fan 3 and the outlet 24 in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. As shown in Fig. 8, the first rectification mechanism 4b has a cylindrical tube portion 41 and a plurality of fins 42b.

[0063] Each of the multiple fins 42b is disposed parallel to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 between the inner circumferential surface 413 of the cylindrical portion 41 and the central axis 40 of the cylindrical portion 41. As shown in Fig. 10, each of the multiple fins 42b has a first end 421 on the inlet 23 side and a second end 422 on the outlet 24 side in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. In each of the multiple fins 42b, the first end 421 and the second end 422 overlap with each other when viewed from the axial direction D1.

[0064] The multiple fins 42b protrude from the inner circumferential surface 413 of the tubular portion 41 toward the central axis 40 of the tubular portion 41, and are aligned in a direction along the inner circumferential surface 413. More specifically, the multiple fins 42b are aligned at equal intervals in a direction along the inner circumferential surface 413 of the tubular portion 41, as shown in Fig. 8. The "equally spaced" here is not limited to being spaced at strictly the same intervals, and may be, for example, an interval within a specified error range with respect to a specified interval (for example, ±10% of the specified interval).

[0065] When viewed in the axial direction D1 of the fan 3, each of the multiple fins 42b is arc-shaped.

[0066] (Airflow control section) The airflow control unit 6b has a pipe 61 and a pipe moving mechanism 62, as shown in FIG.

[0067] The tube 61 includes a cylindrical main body 611 and a plurality of (for example, 12) notches 612.

[0068] The outer diameter of the main body 611 is smaller than the inner diameter of the tube portion 41 of the first flow rectification mechanism 4b.

[0069] The multiple fins 42b are inserted into the multiple cutout portions 612 at the end portion on the first flow straightening mechanism 4b side of the main body portion 611. That is, in the direction along the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2, the width of each of the cutout portions 612 is greater than the width of each of the multiple fins 42b.

[0070] The length of each of the cutout portions 612 is shorter than the length of each of the fins 42b in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. Note that the length of each of the cutout portions 612 is not limited to being shorter than the length of each of the fins 42b, and may be longer than the length of each of the fins 42b or may be the same as the length of each of the fins 42b.

[0071] 8, the multiple cutout portions 612 are disposed at equal intervals in a direction along the inner circumference of the main body portion 611. The term "equally spaced" here does not necessarily mean exactly the same intervals, but may mean, for example, intervals within a specified error range with respect to a specified interval (for example, ±10% of the specified interval).

[0072] The tube moving mechanism 62 moves the tube 61 along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 between a position where at least one fin 42b is inserted into at least one cutout portion 612 (see FIG. 11) and a position where at least one fin 42b is not inserted into at least one cutout portion 612 (see FIG. 10). Specifically, the tube moving mechanism 62 is a rod member provided on the outer periphery of the main body portion 611. When a user of the airflow control portion 6b moves the rod member, which is the tube moving mechanism 62, along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the tube 61 moves along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 in conjunction with the rod member. The tube moving mechanism 62 may have a motor, and the motor may move the tube 61 along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0073] (2-2) Operation of the airflow control system A case where at least one fin 42b is not inserted into at least one cutout portion 612 (see FIG. 10) will be described. In this case, the airflow swirling along the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 by the fan 3 is redirected in a direction approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b by the first rectification mechanism 4b. More specifically, in the first rectification mechanism 4b, the airflow swirling along the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 collides with the fin 42b, and is redirected to an airflow approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b, and reaches the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b. In short, in the airflow control system 1b in the case where at least one fin 42b is not inserted into at least one cutout portion 612, the first rectification mechanism 4b forms a speed distribution in which the speed of the inner airflow is relatively fast and the speed of the outer airflow is relatively slow. Therefore, in the airflow control system 1b when at least one fin 42b is not inserted into at least one cutout portion 612, an airflow with a reduced degree of diffusion flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0074] On the other hand, a case where at least one fin 42b is inserted into at least one cutout portion 612 (see FIG. 11) will be described. In this case, the airflow swirling along the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 by the fan 3 is redirected in the first rectification mechanism 4b in a direction approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b, but is blocked by the airflow control unit 6b before reaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b. Therefore, in the airflow control system 1b in which at least one fin 42b is inserted into at least one cutout portion 612, it is difficult to form a velocity distribution in which the speed of the inner airflow is relatively fast and the speed of the outer airflow is relatively slow. Therefore, in the airflow control system 1b in which at least one fin 42b is inserted into at least one cutout portion 612, an airflow with a higher air diffusion rate flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2 compared to a case in which at least one fin 42b is not inserted into at least one cutout portion 612.

[0075] (2-3) Effects The airflow control system 1b according to the second embodiment has the airflow control unit 6b as a separate unit, and thus can control the diffusion of the airflow, even though the components other than the airflow control unit 6b are the same as those of the conventional technology. More specifically, in the airflow control system 1b, the tube body 61 is moved along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 between a position where at least one fin 42b is inserted into at least one cutout portion 612 and a position where it is not inserted. This allows the airflow control system 1b to change the rectification state of the airflow rectified by the first rectification mechanism 4b, and adjust the degree of diffusion of the airflow.

[0076] (2-4) Modifications Below, we will list some modified examples of the second embodiment. The following modified examples may be implemented in appropriate combination.

[0077] The plurality of cutout portions 612 in the second embodiment have each of the plurality of fins 42b inserted therein, but it is sufficient that at least one of the plurality of fins 42b is inserted therein. Also, the tube 61 in the second embodiment has a plurality of cutout portions 612, but it is sufficient that at least one of the cutout portions 612 is included. That is, the tube 61 only needs to have a cylindrical main body portion 611 and at least one cutout portion 612 into which at least one of the plurality of fins 42b is inserted at the end portion of the main body portion 611 on the first rectification mechanism 4b side.

[0078] (Embodiment 3) (3-1) Details An airflow control system 1c according to the third embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 12 to 15. The same components as those in the first and second embodiments will be given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 12, an airflow control system 1c of the third embodiment includes a cylindrical body 2, a fan 3, a first rectification mechanism 4b, a second rectification mechanism 5b, and an airflow control unit 6c.

[0080] The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the second rectification mechanism 5b functions as an airflow control unit 6c. More specifically, the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the second rectification mechanism 5b changes the rectification state of the airflow to adjust the degree of diffusion of the airflow.

[0081] (Second rectification mechanism) 12, the second straightening mechanism 5b has a straightening grid 50b in which a plurality of long partition plate portions 56 are arranged in a grid pattern, and a cylindrical tube portion 51 surrounding the straightening grid 50b. The partition plate portion 56 is a plate member having a shape having a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction.

[0082] At least one of the partition plate sections 56 is configured to be rotatable around a rotation axis 561 along the longitudinal direction of the partition plate section 56 as shown in Figures 13A and 13B, and functions as an airflow control section 6c. The rotational operation of the partition plate section 56 will be described in more detail. At least one of the partition plate sections 56 is configured to be rotatable between a direction in which the short side direction of the partition plate section 56 is aligned with the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see Figure 13A) and a direction in which the short side direction of the partition plate section 56 is perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see Figure 13B).

[0083] In the second flow straightening mechanism 5b of the third embodiment, three of the plurality of partition plate portions 56 are configured to be rotatable about a rotation shaft 561 as the center, as shown in FIGS.

[0084] 14 and 15, the second rectification mechanism 5b is located between the first rectification mechanism 4b and the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2 in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. The second rectification mechanism 5b has a plurality of rectification paths 55 along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. Each of the plurality of rectification paths 55 has an inlet 551 on the first rectification mechanism 4b side and an outlet 552 on the outlet 24 side of the cylindrical body 2. When the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is oriented along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the inlet 551 of each of the plurality of rectification paths 55 and the outlet 552 of the rectification path 55 have the same shape and the same size.

[0085] (3-2) Operation of the airflow control system A case will be described where the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is oriented along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 14). In this case, the airflow swirling near the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 by the fan 3 along the inner circumferential surface 27 is redirected by the first rectification mechanism 4b in a direction approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b. In short, the airflow control system 1c forms a speed distribution in which the speed of the airflow on the inside is relatively fast and the speed of the airflow on the outside is relatively slow by the first rectification mechanism 4b.

[0086] Thereafter, the second rectification mechanism 5b downstream of the first rectification mechanism 4b rectifies the direction of the airflow redirected by the first rectification mechanism 4b to the direction along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. From the above, in the airflow control system 1c when the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is oriented along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the airflow with a reduced degree of diffusion flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0087] On the other hand, a case will be described where the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is orthogonal to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 15). In this case as well, the airflow swirling near the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 by the fan 3 along the inner circumferential surface 27 is redirected by the first rectification mechanism 4b in a direction approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b. In short, the airflow control system 1c uses the first rectification mechanism 4b to form a speed distribution in which the speed of the airflow on the inside is relatively fast and the speed of the airflow on the outside is relatively slow.

[0088] Then, in the second rectification mechanism 5b downstream of the first rectification mechanism 4b, the airflow redirected by the first rectification mechanism 4b collides with the partition plate portion 56, and the rectification state changes. In other words, the velocity distribution formed by the first rectification mechanism 4b is destroyed. From the above, in the airflow control system 1c in which the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is oriented perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, an airflow with a greater degree of diffusion flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2, compared to the case in which the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is oriented along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0089] (3-3) Effects In the airflow control system 1c according to the third embodiment, the second rectification mechanism 5b disposed at a position close to the outlet 24 in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 functions as an airflow control unit 6c and changes the rectification state of the airflow. Therefore, the airflow control system 1c according to the third embodiment can control the diffusion of the airflow more easily than the airflow control system 1a according to the first embodiment. More specifically, the airflow control system 1c according to the third embodiment can change the rectification state of the airflow rectified by the first rectification mechanism 4b by rotating the partition plate part 56 about a rotation axis 561 along the longitudinal direction of the partition plate part 56, and can adjust the diffusion degree of the airflow more efficiently.

[0090] Furthermore, in the airflow control system 1c of embodiment 3, the second straightening mechanism 5b functions as the airflow control unit 6c, so there is no need to provide a new component for adjusting the diffusion degree of the airflow, making it possible to suppress an increase in the number of components.

[0091] (3-4) Modifications Below, we will list some modified examples of the third embodiment. The following modified examples may be implemented in appropriate combination.

[0092] The partition plate portion 56 of the third embodiment is configured to be rotatable between a direction in which the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 12A) and a direction in which the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 12B). However, it is sufficient that the partition plate portion 56 is configured to be rotatable between a direction in which the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 and a direction in which the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 intersects with the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. In other words, the partition plate portion 56 is not limited to a configuration in which the short side direction of the partition plate portion 56 is rotatable to a direction perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0093] (Embodiment 4) (4-1) Details An airflow control system 1d according to embodiment 4 will be described below with reference to Figures 16 to 19. Configurations similar to those of embodiment 1, embodiment 2, and embodiment 3 will be given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 16, an airflow control system 1d of the fourth embodiment includes a cylindrical body 2, a fan 3, a first rectification mechanism 4b, a second rectification mechanism 5a, and an airflow control unit 6d.

[0095] The fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the first rectification mechanism 4b does not function as the airflow control unit 6d, and the airflow control system 1d has the airflow control unit 6d as a separate unit. More specifically, the fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the degree of diffusion of the airflow is adjusted by rotating an obstacle portion 63 of the airflow control unit 6d inside the cylindrical body 2.

[0096] (Airflow control section) 16, the airflow control unit 6d has an obstacle portion 63 and an obstacle rotation mechanism 64. More specifically, the airflow control unit 6d has a plurality of (for example, four) obstacle portions 63 and a plurality of (for example, four) obstacle rotation mechanisms 64.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 17, the multiple obstacles 63 are located between the second flow straightening mechanism 5a and the outlet 24 in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. Each of the multiple obstacles 63 is a long rectangular prism-shaped plate member. The cross-sectional view of the obstacles 63 is rectangular. Note that the cross-section of the obstacles 63 is not limited to a rectangular shape, and may be a circular shape, and the shape is not limited. The longitudinal length of the obstacles 63 is smaller than the radius of the cross-section of the cylindrical body 2.

[0098] The obstacle portions 63 are provided on the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 via the obstacle rotation mechanism 64. More specifically, the obstacle portions 63 are provided at equal intervals in a direction along the inner circumference of the cylindrical body 2 via the obstacle rotation mechanism 64. The term "equally spaced" as used here does not necessarily mean exactly the same intervals, but may also mean, for example, intervals within a specified error range with respect to a specified interval (for example, ±10% of the specified interval).

[0099] The obstacle rotation mechanism 64 rotates the obstacle portion 63 inside the cylindrical body 2. More specifically, the obstacle rotation mechanism 64 rotates the obstacle portion 63 between a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 17) and a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 18). In other words, the obstacle portion 63 is configured to be rotatable by the obstacle rotation mechanism 64 between a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 17) and a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 18). When the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the obstacle portion 63 is arranged along the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2. In other words, when the longitudinal direction of the obstacle 63 is oriented along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the obstacle 63 is disposed in a state of contact with the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0100] (4-2) Operation of the airflow control system A case will be described in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle 63 is oriented along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 17). In this case, the airflow swirling near the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 by the fan 3 is redirected by the first rectification mechanism 4b in a direction approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b. In short, the airflow control system 1d uses the first rectification mechanism 4b to form a speed distribution in which the speed of the airflow on the inside is relatively fast and the speed of the airflow on the outside is relatively slow. Then, the second rectification mechanism 5a downstream of the first rectification mechanism 4b rectifies the direction of the airflow redirected by the first rectification mechanism 4b to the direction along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0101] Thereafter, the airflow rectified by the second rectification mechanism 5a flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2 without colliding with the obstacle 63. That is, in the airflow control system 1d in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle 63 is oriented along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the airflow with a reduced degree of diffusion flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0102] On the other hand, a case will be described where the longitudinal direction of the obstacle 63 is perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 18). In this case as well, the airflow swirling near the inner circumferential surface 27 of the cylindrical body 2 by the fan 3 along the inner circumferential surface 27 is redirected in the first rectification mechanism 4b in a direction approaching the central axis 40 of the first rectification mechanism 4b. In short, the airflow control system 1d uses the first rectification mechanism 4b to form a speed distribution in which the speed of the airflow on the inside is relatively fast and the speed of the airflow on the outside is relatively slow. Then, the second rectification mechanism 5a downstream of the first rectification mechanism 4b rectifies the direction of the airflow redirected by the first rectification mechanism 4b in a direction along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0103] Thereafter, the airflow rectified by the second rectification mechanism 5a collides with the obstacle 63, and the rectification state changes. In other words, the airflow rectified by the second rectification mechanism 5a collides with the obstacle 63, and the velocity distribution formed by the first rectification mechanism 4b is destroyed. That is, in the airflow control system 1d in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle 63 is oriented perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, an airflow with a greater degree of diffusion flows out of the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2, compared to the case in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle 63 is oriented along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0104] (4-3) Effects The airflow control system 1d according to the fourth embodiment has the airflow control unit 6d as a separate unit, and thus can control the diffusion of the airflow, even though the components other than the airflow control unit 6d are the same as those of the conventional technology. More specifically, in the airflow control system 1d, the obstacle 63 is rotated between a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle 63 is along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 17) and a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle 63 is perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 18). This allows the airflow control system 1d to change the rectification state of the airflow rectified by the first rectification mechanism 4b and the second rectification mechanism 5a, and adjust the degree of diffusion of the airflow.

[0105] In the airflow control system 1d according to the fourth embodiment, the airflow control unit 6d is disposed at a position close to the outlet 24 in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. Therefore, the airflow control system 1d according to the fourth embodiment can easily control the diffusion of the airflow.

[0106] (4-4) Modifications Below, we will list some modified examples of the fourth embodiment. The following modified examples may be implemented in appropriate combination.

[0107] The airflow control unit 6d of the fourth embodiment has a plurality of (for example, four) obstacle parts 63 and a plurality of (for example, four) obstacle rotation mechanisms 64. However, the airflow control unit 6d may have one obstacle part 63 and one obstacle rotation mechanism 64. That is, the numbers of the obstacle parts 63 and the obstacle rotation mechanisms 64 are not limited.

[0108] The obstruction portion 63 in the fourth embodiment is a rectangular prism-shaped plate member formed in a long length, but may be a rod member or a semicircular plate member. The obstruction portion 63 may also be in a mesh shape. In other words, the shape of the obstruction portion 63 may be any shape that can change the rectification state of the airflow.

[0109] The obstacle portion 63 of the fourth embodiment is configured to be rotatable by the obstacle rotation mechanism 64 between a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 17) and a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 (see FIG. 18). However, it is sufficient that the obstacle portion 63 is configured to be rotatable by the obstacle rotation mechanism 64 between a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is along the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2 and a direction in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 intersects with the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2. In other words, the obstacle portion 63 is not limited to a configuration in which the longitudinal direction of the obstacle portion 63 is rotatable to a direction perpendicular to the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0110] 19, the airflow control unit 6d of the fourth embodiment may have an obstacle moving mechanism 65 that moves the obstacle 63 inside the cylindrical body 2, instead of the obstacle rotation mechanism 64. In other words, the airflow control unit 6d may have the obstacle 63 and at least one of the obstacle rotation mechanism 64 and the obstacle moving mechanism 65.

[0111] The obstacle moving mechanism 65 moves the obstacle portion 63 along a moving direction D2 inside the cylindrical body 2. The moving direction D2 is a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical body 2. Note that the moving direction D2 is not limited to a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical body 2, and may be any direction intersecting the axial direction of the cylindrical body 2.

[0112] More specifically, the obstacle moving mechanism 65 moves the obstacle portion 63 inside the cylindrical body 2 in a direction moving the obstacle portion 63 away from the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2 or in a direction moving the obstacle portion 63 closer to the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0113] When the obstacle 63 is located far from the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2, the airflow rectified by the second rectification mechanism 5a flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2 without colliding with the obstacle 63. That is, in the airflow control system 1d when the obstacle 63 is located far from the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2, the airflow with a reduced degree of diffusion flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0114] On the other hand, when the obstacle 63 is located close to the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2, the airflow rectified by the second rectification mechanism 5a collides with the obstacle 63, and the rectification state changes. That is, in the airflow control system 1d when the obstacle 63 is located close to the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2, an airflow with a greater degree of diffusion flows out from the outlet 24 of the cylindrical body 2, compared to when the obstacle 63 is located farther from the central axis 20 of the cylindrical body 2.

[0115] The longitudinal length of the obstacle portion 63 is not limited to being smaller than the cross-sectional radius of the cylindrical body 2, and may be substantially the same as the cross-sectional radius of the cylindrical body 2. In addition, when the airflow control portion 6d has one obstacle portion 63, or when the airflow control portion 6d has multiple obstacle portions 63 and each of the multiple obstacle portions 63 is provided at a different position in the axial direction D1 of the cylindrical body 2, the longitudinal length of the obstacle portion 63 may be greater than the cross-sectional radius of the cylindrical body 2.

[0116] The airflow control units 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d described in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments, respectively, may be provided in appropriate combination in the airflow control systems 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d.

[0117] (summary) As described above, the airflow control system (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to the first embodiment includes a cylinder (2), a fan (3), a first rectification mechanism (4a, 4b), a second rectification mechanism (5a, 5b), and an airflow control unit (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d). The cylinder (2) has a gas inlet (23) at a first end (21), a gas outlet (24) at a second end (22), and a flow path (25) connecting the inlet (23) and the outlet (24), the flow path (25) having a circular cross section. The fan (3) is disposed inside the cylinder (2) and generates an airflow, which is a flow of gas. The first rectification mechanism (4a, 4b) is disposed between the fan (3) and the outlet (24) in the axial direction (D1) of the cylinder (2) and redirects the airflow. The second rectification mechanism (5a, 5b) is located between the first rectification mechanism (4a, 4b) and the outlet (24) in the axial direction (D1) and aligns the direction of the airflow along the axial direction (D1). The airflow control parts (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) change the rectification state of the airflow.

[0118] This embodiment has the advantage that the diffusion of the airflow can be controlled.

[0119] In the airflow control system (1a) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the first straightening mechanism (4a) has a cylindrical tube portion (41) and a plurality of fins (42a) and functions as an airflow control portion (6a). The plurality of fins (42) protrude from an inner circumferential surface (413) of the tube portion (41) toward the central axis (40) of the tube portion (41), are aligned in a direction along the inner circumferential surface (413), and are configured to be rotatable about an end portion on the inner circumferential surface (413) side.

[0120] According to this embodiment, there is an advantage that the diffusion of the airflow can be controlled by rotating the multiple fins (42a) and that an increase in the number of parts of the airflow control system (1a) can be suppressed.

[0121] In the airflow control system (1a) according to the third aspect, in the second aspect, the multiple fins (42) are configured to be rotatable between a closed position in which the multiple fins (42a) protrude toward the central axis (40) and an open position in which the multiple fins (42a) are aligned along the inner circumferential surface (413).

[0122] This embodiment has an advantage that the diffusion of the airflow can be controlled by rotating the fins (42a) between the closed position and the open position, and also has an advantage that an increase in the number of parts of the airflow control system (1a) can be suppressed.

[0123] In the airflow control system (1b) according to the fourth aspect, in the first aspect, the first rectification mechanism (4b) has a cylindrical tube portion (41) and a plurality of fins (42b). The plurality of fins (42b) protrude from an inner circumferential surface (413) of the tube portion (41) toward the central axis (40) of the tube portion (41) and are aligned in a direction along the inner circumferential surface (413). The airflow control portion (6b) has a tube (61) and a tube movement mechanism (62). The tube (61) has a cylindrical main body portion (611) and at least one notch portion (612) into which at least one of the plurality of fins (42b) is inserted at an end portion of the main body portion (611) on the first rectification mechanism (4b) side. The tube movement mechanism (62) moves the tube (61) along the axial direction (D1) between a position where at least one fin (42b) is inserted into at least one cutout portion (612) and a position where at least one fin (42b) is not inserted into at least one cutout portion (612).

[0124] According to this embodiment, the components other than the airflow control section (6b) are the same as those in the prior art, but there is an advantage in that the diffusion of the airflow can be controlled.

[0125] In an airflow control system (1a, 1b, 1c) according to a fifth aspect, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the second straightening mechanism (5b) has a straightening grid (50b) in which a plurality of long partition plate members (56) are arranged in a grid pattern. At least one of the plurality of partition plate members (56) is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis (561) extending along the longitudinal direction of the partition plate member (56) and functions as an airflow control unit (6c).

[0126] This embodiment has the advantage that the diffusion of the airflow can be controlled more easily, and also has the advantage that an increase in the number of parts in the airflow control system (1a, 1b, 1c) can be suppressed.

[0127] In an airflow control system (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to a sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the airflow control unit (6c) has an obstacle portion (63) and at least one of an obstacle rotation mechanism (64) and an obstacle movement mechanism (65). The obstacle portion (63) is located between the second straightening mechanism (5a, 5b) and the outlet (24) in the axial direction (D1). The obstacle rotation mechanism (64) rotates the obstacle portion (63) inside the cylindrical body (2). The obstacle movement mechanism (65) moves the obstacle portion (63) inside the cylindrical body (2).

[0128] According to this embodiment, the components other than the airflow control unit (6c) are the same as those of the conventional technology, and yet the diffusion of the airflow can be easily controlled. Another advantage is that the diffusion of the airflow can be more easily controlled. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d Airflow Control System 2 cylinders 20 center axis 21 1st end 22 2nd end 23 Inlet 24 Outlet 25 Flow Path 3 Fan 4a, 4b 1st rectification mechanism 40 center axis 41 Cylinder part 413 Inner surface 42a, 42b Fins 5a, 5b 2nd rectifier mechanism 50a, 50b rectifier grid 56 Partition plate 561 Rotating shaft 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d Airflow control section 61 Body 611 Main body 612 Notch 62 Tube movement mechanism 63 Disability Section 64 Obstacle Rotation Mechanism 65 Obstacle Moving Mechanism D1 Axial direction

Claims

1. a cylinder having a gas inlet at a first end and a gas outlet at a second end, the cylinder having a flow path connecting the gas inlet and the gas outlet, the flow path having a circular cross section; A fan that is disposed inside the cylindrical body and generates an air flow that is the flow of the gas; a first rectifying mechanism that is located between the fan and the outlet in the axial direction of the cylindrical body and that redirects the airflow; a second rectifying mechanism that is located between the first rectifying mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction and aligns a direction of the airflow to a direction along the axial direction; An airflow control unit that changes the rectification state of the airflow, The first flow straightening mechanism includes: A cylindrical tube portion, a plurality of fins protruding from an inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion toward a central axis of the cylindrical portion, arranged in a direction along the inner circumferential surface, and configured to be rotatable about an end portion of the inner circumferential surface side as a fulcrum, and function as the airflow control portion; The fins are configured to be rotatable between a closed position in which the fins protrude toward the central axis and an open position in which the fins extend along the inner circumferential surface. Airflow control system.

2. A cylindrical body having a gas inlet at a first end and a gas outlet at a second end, a flow path connecting the gas inlet and the gas outlet, the flow path having a circular cross section; A fan that is disposed inside the cylindrical body and generates an air flow that is the flow of the gas; a first rectifying mechanism that is located between the fan and the outlet in the axial direction of the cylindrical body and that redirects the airflow; a second rectifying mechanism that is located between the first rectifying mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction and aligns a direction of the airflow to a direction along the axial direction; An airflow control unit that changes the rectification state of the airflow, The first flow straightening mechanism includes: A cylindrical tube portion, a plurality of fins protruding from an inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion toward a central axis of the cylindrical portion and aligned in a direction along the inner circumferential surface, The airflow control unit is a pipe including a cylindrical main body and at least one notch portion into which at least one of the plurality of fins is inserted at an end portion of the main body on a first flow straightening mechanism side; and a tube moving mechanism that moves the tube along the axial direction between a position where the at least one fin is inserted into the at least one cutout and a position where the at least one fin is not inserted into the at least one cutout. Airflow control system.

3. A cylinder having a gas inlet at a first end and a gas outlet at a second end, a flow path connecting the gas inlet and the gas outlet, the flow path having a circular cross section; a fan disposed inside the cylinder and configured to generate an airflow that is the flow of gas; a first rectifying mechanism that is located between the fan and the outlet in the axial direction of the cylindrical body and that redirects the airflow; a second rectifying mechanism that is located between the first rectifying mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction and aligns a direction of the airflow to a direction along the axial direction; an airflow control unit that changes the rectification state of the airflow, the second straightening mechanism has a straightening grid in which a plurality of long partition plate portions are arranged in a grid pattern, At least one of the plurality of partition plate parts is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis along a longitudinal direction of the partition plate part and functions as the airflow control part. Airflow control system.

4. A cylindrical body having a gas inlet at a first end and a gas outlet at a second end, a flow path connecting the gas inlet and the gas outlet, the flow path having a circular cross section; a fan disposed inside the cylinder and configured to generate an airflow that is the flow of gas; a first rectifying mechanism that is located between the fan and the outlet in the axial direction of the cylindrical body and that redirects the airflow; a second rectifying mechanism that is located between the first rectifying mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction and aligns a direction of the airflow to a direction along the axial direction; an airflow control unit that changes the rectification state of the airflow, The airflow control unit is an obstacle portion located between the second flow straightening mechanism and the outlet in the axial direction; and at least one of an obstacle rotation mechanism that rotates the obstacle portion inside the cylindrical body and an obstacle movement mechanism that moves the obstacle portion inside the cylindrical body. Airflow control system.

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