Air Purifier

Abstract

To purify air flowing inside a duct while suppressing pressure loss.SOLUTION: An air purification device 10 comprises: a filter 20 disposed inside a duct 90 through which air flows, the filter extending in a zigzag or wavy form in a predetermined direction in which the duct 90 extends; and a support structure 30 that supports the filter 20 such that a linear flow path space extending in the predetermined direction exists between an inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the filter 20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an air purification device. [Background technology]

[0002] There is known a device that purifies air using a pleated filter sheet. For example, a technique has been proposed in which the filter sheet is arranged perpendicular to the air flow and slit-shaped openings are provided in the folded parts of the filter sheet to reduce the air pressure drop before and after the filter (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2017-538569 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-mentioned prior art, air passes through slit-shaped openings, which leads to an increase in pressure loss.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and one of the exemplary objectives of the present invention is to provide a technique for purifying air by suppressing pressure loss. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An air purifying device of one embodiment of the present invention comprises a filter that is placed inside a duct through which air flows and extends in a zigzag or wavy pattern in a predetermined direction in which the duct extends, and a support structure that supports the filter so that a flow path space that extends linearly in the predetermined direction is present between the inner wall surface of the duct and the filter.

[0007] According to the present invention, the pressure loss can be suppressed and the air can be purified. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an air purification device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an air purification device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an air purification device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an extraction opening. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a schematic view of a filter being pulled out through an extraction opening. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the air flow inside a duct equipped with the air purification device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an air purification device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an air purification device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an air purification device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an air purification device according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the description, the same elements are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. In order to facilitate understanding of the description, the dimensional ratios of the components in each drawing do not necessarily match the actual dimensional ratios.

[0010] (First embodiment) 1 to 3 are diagrams that diagrammatically show the configuration of an air purifying device 10 according to a first embodiment. The air purifying device 10 includes a filter 20 and a support structure 30. The air purifying device 10 is attached to a duct 90 through which air flows, and purifies the air flowing inside the duct 90. The duct 90 is, for example, an air conditioning duct disposed in a building, and is a conduit for sending air whose temperature and humidity have been regulated to each room in the building. As indicated by an arrow F, the air inside the duct 90 flows in a predetermined direction in which the duct 90 extends.

[0011] In the drawings, the predetermined direction in which the duct 90 extends is the z direction, and the two directions perpendicular to the z direction are the x direction and the y direction. Fig. 1 shows the structure as viewed in the x direction, Fig. 2 shows the structure as viewed in the y direction, and Fig. 3 shows the structure as viewed in the z direction. The duct 90 shown in Figs. 1 to 3 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the predetermined direction in which air flows (z direction), and is a so-called square duct. The cross-sectional shape of the duct 90 is not particularly limited, and for example, the duct 90 may be a round duct.

[0012] The filter 20 is configured to extend in a zigzag or wavy shape in a predetermined direction (z direction) in which the duct 90 extends. The filter 20 may be a so-called pleated type. The filter 20 is formed, for example, by folding a base sheet such as a nonwoven fabric sheet so that peaks and valleys are alternately arranged in a predetermined direction (z direction). The thickness of the base sheet of the filter 20 is 0.5 mm or more and 5 mm or less, for example, 1 mm or more and 3 mm or less. The filter 20 is arranged so that the peaks and valleys of the filter 20 protrude in the y direction and the ridgelines of the peaks and valleys of the filter 20 extend in the x direction. The pitch p of the peaks and valleys of the filter 20 is 3 mm or more and 50 mm or less, for example, 5 mm or more and 30 mm or less.

[0013] The filter 20 includes a first filter surface 22 and a second filter surface 24 on the opposite side to the first filter surface 22. The first filter surface 22 and the second filter surface 24 extend in a zigzag or wavy manner in a predetermined direction (z direction). The first filter surface 22 is a surface on the +y direction side, and the second filter surface 24 is a surface on the -y direction side. The height h of the filter 20 can be determined by the distance from the peaks 22a of the first filter surface 22 to the peaks 24a of the second filter surface 24, and is, for example, 10 mm or more and 100 mm or less. The peaks 22a of the first filter surface 22 correspond to the valleys of the second filter surface 24, and the peaks 24a of the second filter surface 24 correspond to the valleys of the first filter surface 22.

[0014] The filter 20 may comprise a material suitable for removing or adsorbing pollutants contained in the air. The filter 20 may comprise a deodorant attached to a substrate sheet, such as a nonwoven sheet. The deodorant may be, for example, activated carbon, silica gel, zeolite, etc. The filter 20 may be a dust filter, a humidifying filter, or a dehumidifying filter.

[0015] A filter frame 26 is provided on the outer edge of the filter 20. When the filter 20 has a rectangular shape as shown in Fig. 2, the rectangular filter frame 26 is provided along the four sides that define the outer edge of the filter 20. The filter frame 26 has, for example, a first frame portion 26a extending in a predetermined direction (z direction) and a second frame portion 26b extending in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction (x direction). The shape of the filter frame 26 is not limited to a rectangle, and the filter frame 26 may have any shape depending on the shape of the outer edge of the filter 20.

[0016] The support structure 30 supports the filter 20 so that the filter 20 is located inside the duct 90. The support structure 30 includes a guide rail 32 and a base 34. The base 34 is attached to a side wall 92 of the duct 90 and supports the guide rail 32. The base 34 can be attached to the side wall 92 of the duct 90 using a fastening member such as a screw or a bolt, but the method of attaching the base 34 is not particularly limited. The base 34 is attached to an outer wall surface 98 of the duct 90 so as to close an opening 96 provided in the side wall 92 of the duct 90, for example. The opening 96 of the duct 90 is, for example, a maintenance opening for inspecting the inside of the duct 90. The opening 96 of the duct 90 may be formed after the fact in an existing duct 90 in order to attach the air purifying device 10.

[0017] The guide rail 32 extends from the base 34 toward the inside of the duct 90 in a direction (x direction) perpendicular to the predetermined direction. The guide rail 32 extends, for example, through an opening 96 of the duct 90 toward the inside of the duct 90. The guide rail 32 has a base end 32a attached to the base 34 and a tip end 32b opposite to the base end 32a. The tip end 32b of the guide rail 32 is separated from the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90. The guide rail 32 supports the outer edge of the filter 20. The guide rail 32 supports, for example, the filter frame 26 (second frame portion 26b). The guide rail 32 supports, for example, the filter 20 so that it can slide along the guide rail 32.

[0018] The support structure 30 supports the filter 20 such that a flow path space extending in a predetermined direction (z direction) exists between the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the filter 20. The flow path space existing around the filter 20 extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) so as not to impede the flow of air in the predetermined direction (z direction). Therefore, the flow path space existing around the filter 20 does not include other structures (e.g., other filters or other support structures) that may impede the flow of air in the predetermined direction (z direction).

[0019] In a plan view (e.g., FIG. 3) when viewed in a predetermined air flow direction (z direction), the cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space around filter 20 is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area occupied by filter 20. The cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space around filter 20 is 50% or more, 60% or more, or 80% or more of the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​duct 90. This makes it possible to hardly generate any pressure loss even when filter 20 is disposed inside duct 90.

[0020] The support structure 30 supports the filter 20 so that at least one of a first flow path space 12, a second flow path space 14, and a third flow path space 16 is present. The first flow path space 12 extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between an inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the first filter surface 22. The second flow path space 14 extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between an inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the second filter surface 24. The third flow path space 16 extends linearly in the predetermined direction (z direction) between the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and an outer edge portion of the filter 20 (e.g., the first frame portion 26a).

[0021] The cross-sectional shape of the flow path space around the filter 20 is preferably symmetrical with respect to the filter 20. For example, it is preferable that the first distance L1 from the first filter surface 22 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is approximately the same as the second distance L2 from the second filter surface 24 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90. This allows the cross-sectional shapes of the first flow path space 12 and the second flow path space 14 to be equivalent, and reduces pressure loss caused by the placement of the filter 20.

[0022] A first distance L1 from the first filter surface 22 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is preferably greater than the height h of the filter 20. Similarly, a second distance L2 from the second filter surface 24 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is preferably greater than the height h of the filter 20. This allows the cross-sectional area occupied by the first flow path space 12 or the second flow path space 14 to be greater than the cross-sectional area occupied by the filter 20, thereby reducing pressure loss caused by the placement of the filter 20.

[0023] A third distance L3 from an outer edge portion of the filter 20 (e.g., the first frame portion 26a) to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is preferably greater than the height h of the filter 20. This allows the cross-sectional area occupied by the third flow path space 16 to be increased, and the pressure loss caused by the placement of the filter 20 to be reduced.

[0024] The support structure 30 may include a removal opening 36 for removing the filter 20 to the outside of the duct 90. The removal opening 36 is provided so as to penetrate the base 34. The removal opening 36 is provided at a position communicating with the opening 96 of the duct 90. The removal opening 36 has, for example, an opening size smaller than the opening 96 of the duct 90. The removal opening 36 is formed at a position and size that allows the filter 20 to pass when the filter 20 is pulled out toward the outside of the duct 90 along the guide rail 32. The support structure 30 may include a cover 38 that can open and close the removal opening 36. The cover 38 may have a sliding or hinged door structure.

[0025] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the removal opening 36, showing a front view of the removal opening 36 with the cover 38 removed. As shown in Fig. 4, the removal opening 36 has an opening size slightly larger than the filter 20 and the filter frame 26. The filter frame 26 (first frame portion 26a) can be provided with a grip portion 28 for removing the filter 20.

[0026] 5 is a schematic diagram showing how the filter 20 is pulled out through the removal opening 36. A user can grasp the gripping portion 28 and pull out the (e.g., used) filter 20 from the removal opening 36 in the direction indicated by the arrow X (-x direction). The filter 20 slides in the x direction along the guide rail 32 and is taken out to the outside of the duct 90 through the opening 96 of the duct 90 and the removal opening 36 of the base 34. A user can place the (e.g., unused) filter 20 inside the duct 90 through the removal opening 36. After placing the filter 20 inside the duct 90, the removal opening 36 can be closed with the cover 38.

[0027] In a variant, the base 34 may not include the access opening 36 and the cover 38. In this case, the entire air purification device 10 can be removed from the duct 90 by removing the base 34 from the duct 90. After removing the air purification device 10 from the duct 90, the (e.g., used) filter 20 can be removed from the support structure 30 and a (e.g., unused) filter 20 can be attached to the support structure 30. The filter 20 can then be replaced by attaching the support structure 30 with the filter 20 attached to it back to the duct 90.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the air flow inside the duct 90 including the air purifying device 10 according to the first embodiment. The air flowing near the center inside the duct 90 advances in a zigzag or wavy manner in a predetermined direction along the first filter surface 22 or the second filter surface 24 as shown by the arrows F1 and F2. This allows, for example, the deodorant attached to the filter 20 to remove contaminants contained in the air. In particular, by making the air flow in a zigzag or wavy manner in a predetermined direction, the creeping distance where the filter 20 and the air come into contact can be lengthened, and the purification capacity can be improved. In addition, since the air flow rate near the center inside the duct 90 is greater than the air flow rate on the sides inside the duct 90 (near the inner wall surface 94), the air can be efficiently purified even when the filter 20 is disposed only near the center.

[0029] Air flowing through a flow path space (for example, the first flow path space 12 and the second flow path space 14) in which the filter 20 is not arranged can proceed linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) as shown by arrows F3 and F4. As a result, the generation of pressure loss due to the provision of a filter can be made extremely small compared to a case in which a filter is provided so as to block the entire inside of the duct 90. In addition, since the first flow path space 12 and the second flow path space 14 are arranged symmetrically on both sides of the filter 20, the change or bias in the flow velocity distribution inside the duct 90 due to the provision of the filter 20 can be made small, and pressure loss can be suppressed. As a result, the impact on the existing air conditioning equipment provided on the upstream side and downstream side of the duct 90 can be reduced, and the air purifying device 10 can be introduced afterwards while utilizing the existing air conditioning equipment as it is. As a result, the burden on the user can be reduced compared to a case in which the existing air conditioning equipment must be renovated in consideration of the increase in pressure loss due to the addition of a filter, and the introduction of the air purifying device 10 can be made easy.

[0030] Air purifier 10 can be designed so that the pressure loss when the air flow speed inside duct 90 is 3 m / s is 40 Pa or less, preferably 30 Pa or less or 20 Pa or less. As a result, the impact on existing air conditioning equipment installed upstream or downstream of duct 90 can be more suitably reduced, making it easy to retroactively install air purifier 10 while utilizing the existing air conditioning equipment as is.

[0031] Second embodiment 7 and 8 are diagrams that show a schematic configuration of an air purifying device 50 according to a second embodiment. The second embodiment differs from the above-described first embodiment in that a plurality of filters are arranged inside a duct 90. The second embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, and a description of the commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0032] The air purifying device 50 includes a first filter 60, a second filter 61, and a support structure 70. Each of the first filter 60 and the second filter 61 can be configured similarly to the filter 20 according to the first embodiment. The support structure 70 supports the multiple filters (the first filter 60 and the second filter 61) such that the multiple filters (the first filter 60 and the second filter 61) are located inside the duct 90.

[0033] Figure 7 shows the structure as viewed in the x direction, and corresponds to the above-mentioned Figure 1. Figure 8 shows the structure as viewed in the z direction, and corresponds to the above-mentioned Figure 3.

[0034] The first filter 60 includes a first filter surface 62 and a second filter surface 63 opposite to the first filter surface 62. The first filter surface 62 and the second filter surface 63 extend in a zigzag or wavy manner in a predetermined direction (z direction). The second filter 61 includes a third filter surface 64 and a fourth filter surface 65 opposite to the third filter surface 64. The third filter surface 64 and the fourth filter surface 65 extend in a zigzag or wavy manner in the predetermined direction (z direction). The first filter 60 and the second filter 61 are disposed such that the second filter surface 63 and the third filter surface 64 face each other. A first filter frame 66 is provided on the outer edge of the first filter 60. A second filter frame 67 is provided on the outer edge of the second filter 61.

[0035] The support structure 70 includes a first guide rail 72, a second guide rail 73, and a base 74. The base 74 is attached to a side wall 92 of the duct 90 and supports the first guide rail 72 and the second guide rail 73. The base 74 can be configured similarly to the base 34 according to the first embodiment, and can be attached to the duct 90 in a similar manner to the base 34.

[0036] Each of the first guide rail 72 and the second guide rail 73 can be configured similarly to the guide rail 32 according to the first embodiment. Each of the first guide rail 72 and the second guide rail 73 extends from the base 74 toward the inside of the duct 90 in a direction (x direction) perpendicular to the predetermined direction. The first guide rail 72 supports the outer edge of the first filter 60. The first guide rail 72 supports, for example, the first filter frame 66. The first guide rail 72 supports, for example, the first filter 60 so as to be slidable along the first guide rail 72. The second guide rail 73 supports, for example, the outer edge of the second filter 61. The second guide rail 73 supports, for example, the second filter frame 67. The second guide rail 73 supports, for example, the second filter 61 so as to be slidable along the second guide rail 73.

[0037] The support structure 70 supports the first filter 60 and the second filter 61 so that the first flow path space 52, the second flow path space 54, the third flow path space 56, and the fourth flow path space 58 are present. The first flow path space 52 extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the first filter 60 (first filter surface 62). The second flow path space 54 extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the second filter 61 (fourth filter surface 65). The third flow path space 56 extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the outer edge of the first filter 60 or the second filter 61. The fourth flow path space 58 extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the first filter 60 (second filter surface 63) and the second filter 61 (third filter surface 64).

[0038] The cross-sectional shapes of the flow path spaces around the first filter 60 and the second filter 61 are preferably symmetrical. For example, the first distance L1 from the first filter surface 62 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is preferably approximately the same as the second distance L2 from the fourth filter surface 65 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90. In addition, the height h2 of the second filter 61 is preferably approximately the same as the height h1 of the first filter 60. This allows the cross-sectional shapes of the first flow path space 52 and the second flow path space 54 on both sides of the fourth flow path space 58 to be symmetrical, and the pressure loss caused by the arrangement of the first filter 60 and the second filter 61 can be reduced.

[0039] A first distance L1 from the first filter surface 62 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is preferably greater than the height h1 of the first filter 60. A second distance L2 from the fourth filter surface 65 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is preferably greater than the height h2 of the second filter 61. A fourth distance L4 from the second filter surface 63 to the third filter surface 64 is preferably greater than the height h1 of the first filter 60, and is preferably greater than the height h2 of the second filter 61. This allows the cross-sectional areas occupied by the first flow path space 52, the second flow path space 54, and the fourth flow path space 58 to be greater than the cross-sectional areas occupied by the first filter 60 or the second filter 61, thereby reducing pressure loss caused by arranging multiple filters.

[0040] A third distance L3 from the outer edge of the first filter 60 or the second filter 61 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is preferably greater than the heights h1, h2 of the first filter 60 or the second filter 61. This makes it possible to increase the cross-sectional area occupied by the third flow path space 16, and to reduce pressure loss caused by arranging multiple filters.

[0041] The support structure 70 may include a first removal opening 76 for removing the first filter 60 to the outside of the duct 90, and a second removal opening 77 for removing the second filter 61 to the outside of the duct 90. The first removal opening 76 and the second removal opening 77 may be configured similarly to the removal opening 36 according to the first embodiment. The first removal opening 76 is formed so as to have a position and size through which the first filter 60 can pass when the first filter 60 is pulled out toward the outside of the duct 90 along the first guide rail 72. The second removal opening 77 is formed so as to have a position and size through which the first filter 60 can pass when the second filter 61 is pulled out toward the outside of the duct 90 along the second guide rail 73. Note that instead of providing each of the first removal opening 76 and the second removal opening 77, one large removal opening may be provided.

[0042] The support structure 70 may include a cover 78 that can open and close the first removal opening 76 and the second removal opening 77. The cover 78 may have a sliding or hinged door structure. A single cover 78 common to both the first removal opening 76 and the second removal opening 77 may be provided, or multiple covers that can open and close the first removal opening 76 and the second removal opening 77 individually may be provided. The support structure 70 may include, for example, a first cover that can open and close the first removal opening 76 and a second cover that can open and close the second removal opening 77.

[0043] The second embodiment can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the second embodiment, by arranging a plurality of filters according to the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the duct 90, the purification capacity of the air purification device 50 can be improved compared to the case where only one filter is arranged.

[0044] In a modified example, one or more additional filters may be disposed between the first filter 60 and the second filter 61. That is, the air purifying device may include three or more filters arranged in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction (e.g., the x direction) inside the duct 90. In this case, by providing a flow path space that extends linearly in the predetermined direction (the z direction) between the multiple filters, pressure loss due to the addition of filters can be suppressed.

[0045] Third embodiment 9 and 10 are diagrams showing a schematic configuration of an air purifier 110 according to a third embodiment. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a plurality of filters are arranged inside a duct 90. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that a combination of photocatalytic filters is used and a light source is provided to irradiate the photocatalytic filters with excitation light. The third embodiment will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first and second embodiments, and explanations of commonalities will be omitted as appropriate.

[0046] The air purification device 110 includes a first filter 122, a second filter 124, a first light source 126, a second light source 128, a third filter 130, and a support structure 140.

[0047] The first filter 122 and the second filter 124 are photocatalytic filters in which a photocatalyst such as titanium oxide is attached to a base material such as a nonwoven fabric sheet or a porous substrate. The first filter 122 and the second filter 124 have a flat plate shape extending in a predetermined direction (z direction) and do not extend in a zigzag or wavy shape. The thicknesses t1 and t2 of the first filter 122 and the second filter 124 are not particularly limited, but are, for example, 1 mm or more and 50 mm or less. The first filter 122 and the second filter 124 may be pleated filters extending in a zigzag or wavy shape in the predetermined direction (z direction). A filter frame (not shown) may be provided on the outer edge of each of the first filter 122 and the second filter 124.

[0048] The first light source 126 and the second light source 128 irradiate excitation light for activating the catalyst toward the photocatalytic filter. The first light source 126 irradiates the first excitation light toward the first filter 122. The second light source 128 irradiates the second excitation light toward the second filter 124. The first light source 126 is arranged, for example, in a two-dimensional array along the first filter 122. The second light source 128 is arranged, for example, in a two-dimensional array along the second filter 124. As the first light source 126 and the second light source 128, a semiconductor light emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) can be used. When titanium oxide is used as the photocatalyst, the first light source 126 and the second light source 128 can be equipped with an LED that outputs near-ultraviolet light included in a wavelength range of 300 nm to 400 nm.

[0049] The first light source 126 and the second light source 128 may irradiate ultraviolet light for sterilizing the air flowing inside the duct 90. The first light source 126 and the second light source 128 may include, for example, an LED that outputs deep ultraviolet light included in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 300 nm. Each of the first light source 126 and the second light source 128 may include an LED that outputs near ultraviolet light for exciting a photocatalyst, and an LED that outputs deep ultraviolet light for sterilization. For example, some of the multiple LEDs arranged in an array along the first filter 122 or the second filter 124 may be used for near ultraviolet light, and the remaining LEDs may be used for deep ultraviolet light.

[0050] The third filter 130 can be configured similarly to the filter 20 according to the first embodiment, and is a pleated filter extending in a zigzag or wavy manner in a predetermined direction (z direction). The third filter 130 is, for example, a deodorizing filter having a deodorant attached to a base sheet. The third filter 130 includes a first filter surface 132 and a second filter surface 134 on the opposite side to the first filter surface 132, and the first filter surface 132 and the second filter surface 134 extend in a zigzag or wavy manner in the predetermined direction (z direction). A filter frame 136 is provided on the outer edge of the third filter 130.

[0051] The third filter 130 is disposed between the first filter 122 and the second filter 124. The third filter 130 is disposed, for example, such that the first filter surface 132 faces the first filter 122 and the second filter surface 134 faces the second filter 124. The first light source 126 is disposed between the first filter 122 and the third filter 130. The second light source 128 is It is disposed between the second filter 124 and the third filter 130 .

[0052] The support structure 140 includes a first guide rail 142, a second guide rail 144, a first light source support portion 146, a second light source support portion 148, a third guide rail 150, and a base portion 152. The base portion 152 is attached to a side wall 92 of the duct 90, and supports the first guide rail 142, the second guide rail 144, the first light source support portion 146, the second light source support portion 148, and the third guide rail 150. The base portion 152 can be configured similarly to the base portion 34 according to the first embodiment, and can be attached to the duct 90 in a similar manner to the base portion 34.

[0053] The first guide rail 142, the second guide rail 144, and the third guide rail 150 can be configured in the same manner as the guide rail 32 according to the first embodiment. The first guide rail 142, the second guide rail 144, and the third guide rail 150 extend from the base 152 toward the inside of the duct 90 in a direction (x direction) perpendicular to the predetermined direction. The first guide rail 142 supports the outer edge of the first filter 122. The first guide rail 142 supports the first filter 122 so as to be slidable along the first guide rail 142, for example. The second guide rail 144 supports the outer edge of the second filter 124. The second guide rail 144 supports the second filter 124 so as to be slidable along the second guide rail 144, for example. The third guide rail 150 supports the outer edge of the third filter 130. The third guide rail 150 supports the filter frame 136, for example. The third guide rail 150 supports, for example, the third filter 130 so that the third filter 130 can slide along the third guide rail 150 .

[0054] The first light source support 146 and the second light source support 148 extend from the base 152 toward the inside of the duct 90 in a direction (x direction) perpendicular to the predetermined direction. The first light source support 146 supports the first light source 126. The second light source support 148 supports the second light source 128. Each of the first light source support 146 and the second light source support 148 is composed of a flat board or an L-shaped bar. Each of the first light source support 146 and the second light source support 148 may be provided in plurality to support a plurality of LEDs arranged in a two-dimensional array. In the example shown in FIG. 9, three first light source support parts 146 arranged at intervals in a predetermined direction (z direction) and three second light source support parts 148 arranged at intervals in the predetermined direction (z direction) are provided.

[0055] The support structure 140 supports the filters (first filter 122, second filter 124, and third filter 130) so that there are flow path spaces extending in a predetermined direction (z direction). The support structure 140 supports the filters so that there are a first flow path space 112, a second flow path space 114, and a third flow path space 116. The first flow path space 112 extends linearly in the predetermined direction (z direction) between the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the third filter 130 (first filter surface 132). The second flow path space 114 extends linearly in the predetermined direction (z direction) between the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the third filter 130 (second filter surface 134). The third flow path space 16 extends linearly in the predetermined direction (z direction) between the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 and the outer edge of the third filter 130.

[0056] The first flow path space 112 includes a first flow path section 112a, a second flow path section 112b, and a third flow path section 112c. The second flow path space 114 includes a fourth flow path section 114a, a fifth flow path section 114b, and a sixth flow path section 114c.

[0057] The first flow path partition 112a extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the third filter 130 (first filter surface 132) and the first light source support part 146. The first flow path partition 112a is a flow path space adjacent to the first filter surface 132 near the center inside the duct 90. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path partition 112a depends on a first partition distance L1a from the third filter 130 to the first light source support part 146. The first partition distance L1a is, for example, greater than the height h of the third filter 130.

[0058] The second flow path section 112b extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the first light source 126 and the first filter 122. The second flow path section 112b is a flow path space in which the first excitation light from the first light source 126 is irradiated toward the first filter 122. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the second flow path section 112b depends on a second section distance L1b from the first light source 126 to the first filter 122. The second section distance L1b is, for example, larger than a thickness t1 of the first filter 122.

[0059] The third flow path partition 112c extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the first filter 122 and the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90. The third flow path partition 112c is a flow path space adjacent to the first filter 122 on the side inside the duct 90. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the third flow path partition 112c depends on a third partition distance L1c from the first filter 122 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90. The third partition distance L1c is, for example, larger than the thickness t1 of the first filter 122 and larger than the height h of the third filter 130.

[0060] The fourth flow path section 114a extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the third filter 130 (second filter surface 134) and the second light source support part 148. The fourth flow path section 114a is a flow path space adjacent to the second filter surface 134 near the center inside the duct 90. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth flow path section 114a depends on a fourth section distance L2a from the third filter 130 to the second light source support part 148. The fourth section distance L2a is, for example, greater than the height h of the third filter 130.

[0061] The fifth flow path section 114b extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the second light source 128 and the second filter 124. The fifth flow path section 114b is a flow path space in which the second excitation light from the second light source 128 is irradiated toward the second filter 124. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the fifth flow path section 114b depends on a fifth section distance L2b from the second light source 128 to the second filter 124. The fifth section distance L2b is, for example, larger than the thickness t2 of the second filter 124.

[0062] The sixth flow path partition 114c extends linearly in a predetermined direction (z direction) between the second filter 124 and the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90. The sixth flow path partition 114c is a flow path space adjacent to the second filter 124 on the side inside the duct 90. The flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the sixth flow path partition 114c depends on a sixth partition distance L2c from the second filter 124 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90. The sixth partition distance L2c is, for example, larger than the thickness t2 of the second filter 124 and larger than the height h of the third filter 130.

[0063] The cross-sectional shape of the flow path space around the plurality of filters (the first filter 122, the second filter 124, and the third filter 130) is preferably symmetrical. For example, the first light source 126 and the second light source 128 are preferably arranged symmetrically with the third filter 130 in between. For example, the first partition distance L1a is preferably approximately equal to the fourth partition distance L2a. Also, the first filter 122 and the second filter 124 are preferably arranged symmetrically with the third filter 130 in between. For example, the second partition distance L1b is preferably approximately equal to the fifth partition distance L2b. Also, the third partition distance L1c is preferably approximately equal to the sixth partition distance L2c. This allows the shapes of the first flow path space 112 and the second flow path space 114 sandwiching the third filter 130 to be symmetrical, and the pressure loss caused by arranging the plurality of filters can be reduced.

[0064] The sum of the flow path cross-sectional areas of the first flow path space 112 and the second flow path space 114 is preferably larger than the cross-sectional area occupied by the air purifier 110 inside the duct 90. This makes it possible to reduce pressure loss caused by placing the air purifier 110 inside the duct 90.

[0065] A third distance L3 from the outer edge of the first filter 122, the second filter 124, or the third filter 130 to the inner wall surface 94 of the duct 90 is preferably greater than the thicknesses t1, t2 of the first filter 122 or the second filter 124, and is preferably greater than the height h of the third filter 130. This makes it possible to increase the cross-sectional area occupied by the third flow path space 116, and to reduce pressure loss caused by arranging multiple filters.

[0066] The support structure 140 may include a first removal opening 154 for removing the first filter 122 to the outside of the duct 90, a second removal opening 156 for removing the second filter 124 to the outside of the duct 90, and a third removal opening 158 for removing the third filter 130 to the outside of the duct 90. Each of the first removal opening 154, the second removal opening 156, and the third removal opening 158 can be configured similarly to the removal opening 36 according to the first embodiment. The first removal opening 154 is formed so as to have a position and size through which the first filter 122 can pass when the first filter 122 is pulled out toward the outside of the duct 90 along the first guide rail 142. The second removal opening 156 is formed so as to have a position and size through which the second filter 124 can pass when the second filter 124 is pulled out toward the outside of the duct 90 along the second guide rail 144. Third removal opening 158 is formed at a position and with a size that allows third filter 130 to pass through when third filter 130 is pulled out along third guide rail 150 towards the outside of duct 90.

[0067] The support structure 140 may include a first cover 160 that can open and close the first removal opening 154, a second cover 162 that can open and close the second removal opening 156, and a third cover 164 that can open and close the third removal opening 158. The first cover 160, the second cover 162, and the third cover 164 may have a sliding or hinged door structure. Alternatively, one cover common to the first removal opening 154, the second removal opening 156, and the third removal opening 158 may be provided.

[0068] The air purifying device 110 may further include a first power source 166 and a second power source 168. The first power source 166 supplies power to the first light source 126 for driving the first light source 126 via the first light source support portion 146. The second power source 168 supplies power to the second light source 128 for driving the second light source 128 via the second light source support portion 148. The first power source 166 and the second power source 168 may be attached to the support structure 140, for example, to the base portion 152. The first power source 166 and the second power source 168 may be located, for example, outside the duct 90. The first power source 166 may be provided, for example, between the first extraction opening 154 and the third extraction opening 158, for example, between the first cover 160 and the third cover 164. The second power source 168 is provided, for example, between the second extraction opening 156 and the third extraction opening 158, and is provided, for example, between the second cover 162 and the third cover 164.

[0069] The third embodiment can also achieve the same effects as the first or second embodiment. According to the third embodiment, by combining a photocatalytic filter, the purification capacity of the air purifier 110 can be improved compared to the case where only a deodorizing filter is used. According to the third embodiment, by combining a light source that outputs deep ultraviolet light, the air flowing inside the duct 90 can be sterilized by irradiating it with deep ultraviolet light, and the purification capacity of the air purifier 110 can be further improved. In addition, since the light source is disposed in the flow path space between the filters, the light source can be cooled by the air flowing through the flow path space.

[0070] In a modified example, the first filter 122 and the second filter 124 may be pleated deodorizing filters, and the third filter 130 may be a photocatalytic filter. In this case, the first light source 126 and the second light source 128 may be arranged to irradiate excitation light toward the third filter 130. In a further modified example, any number of pleated deodorizing filters may be combined with any number of photocatalytic filters. In addition, at least one of a dust collecting filter, a humidifying filter, and a deodorizing filter may be combined.

[0071] In the above-described embodiment, a description has been given of the case where the air purifying device 10, 50, 110 does not include the duct 90. In a modified example, the air purifying device 10, 50, 110 may include the duct 90. For example, by providing a duct 90 suitable for the size of the filter 20 required for the purification performance of the air purifying device 10, it is possible to optimize the balance between the purification performance of the air purifying device 10 and the pressure loss.

[0072] The present invention has been described above based on the embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, that various design changes are possible, that various modifications are possible, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0073] Several aspects of the present invention will now be described.

[0074] A first aspect of the present invention is an air purifying device that includes a filter disposed inside a duct through which air flows, extending in a zigzag or wavy manner in a predetermined direction along which the duct extends, and a support structure that supports the filter such that a flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction exists between the inner wall surface of the duct and the filter. According to the first aspect, by using a filter that extends in a zigzag or wavy manner in a direction parallel to the air flow, the creeping distance of the air flowing along the filter can be increased, and the air can be purified efficiently. In addition, since a flow path space extending linearly in a predetermined direction exists between the inner wall surface of the duct and the filter, the structure can be such that the air flow inside the duct is not easily obstructed by the filter, and the air can be purified while suppressing pressure loss.

[0075] A second aspect of the present invention is the air purifier according to the first aspect, wherein a cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space is equal to or larger than a cross-sectional area occupied by the filter in a plan view in the predetermined direction. According to the second aspect, the cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space can be relatively large, and pressure loss can be suitably suppressed.

[0076] A third aspect of the present invention is the air purifier according to the first or second aspect, wherein a cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space is 50% or more of a cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path of the duct in a plan view in the predetermined direction. According to the third aspect, the cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space can be relatively large, and pressure loss can be suitably suppressed.

[0077] A fourth aspect of the present invention is an air purifier according to any one of the first to third aspects, in which the filter includes a first filter surface extending in a zigzag or wavy manner in the predetermined direction and a second filter surface extending in a zigzag or wavy manner in the predetermined direction on the opposite side to the first filter surface, and the support structure supports the filter such that a first flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction exists between the inner wall surface of the duct and the first filter surface, and a second flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction exists between the inner wall surface of the duct and the second filter surface. According to the fourth aspect, the creeping distance of air flowing along both sides of the filter can be increased, and the air can be efficiently purified. In addition, since flow path spaces are provided on both sides of the filter, pressure loss can be suitably suppressed.

[0078] A fifth aspect of the present invention is the air purifier according to the fourth aspect, wherein the support structure supports the filter such that a third flow path space is present between the inner wall surface of the duct and an outer edge of the filter extending in the predetermined direction, the third flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction. According to the fifth aspect, by providing the third flow path space along the outer edge of the filter, the cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space can be relatively increased, and pressure loss can be suitably suppressed.

[0079] A sixth aspect of the present invention is the air purifying device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, in which the filter is a first filter, and further includes a second filter disposed inside the duct and extending in a zigzag or wavy manner in the predetermined direction, and the support structure supports the second filter such that a flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction exists between the first filter and the second filter. According to the sixth aspect, the purification capacity can be improved by using a plurality of filters. Also, since a flow path space is provided between the plurality of filters, pressure loss can be suitably suppressed.

[0080] A seventh aspect of the present invention is the air purifier according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a photocatalytic filter disposed inside the duct and extending in the predetermined direction, and a light source for irradiating excitation light toward the photocatalytic filter, and the support structure supports the photocatalytic filter so that a flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction exists between the filter and the photocatalytic filter. According to the seventh aspect, the combination of photocatalytic filters can improve the purification capacity. In addition, since a flow path space is provided between multiple filters, pressure loss can be suitably suppressed.

[0081] An eighth aspect of the present invention is the air purifier according to the seventh aspect, wherein the support structure supports the light source so that the light source is located between the filter and the photocatalytic filter. According to the eighth aspect, the light source is provided in the flow path space between the filter and the photocatalytic filter, so that the light source can be cooled by the air flowing through the flow path space.

[0082] A ninth aspect of the present invention is the air purifier according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the support structure comprises a base attached to a side wall of the duct, and a guide rail extending from the base toward the inside of the duct and supporting an outer edge of the filter. According to the ninth aspect, by supporting the filter by a guide rail extending from a base attached to the side wall of the duct, the cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space can be relatively increased, and pressure loss can be suitably suppressed.

[0083] A tenth aspect of the present invention is the air purifying device according to the ninth aspect, wherein the guide rail supports the filter so as to be slidable along the guide rail, and the base includes an opening for removing the filter from inside the duct to outside the duct, and a cover for opening and closing the opening. According to the tenth aspect, the filter can be replaced alone while the support structure is attached to the side wall of the duct, improving user convenience.

[0084] An eleventh aspect of the present invention is the air purifier according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, configured so that the pressure loss when the air flow velocity inside the duct is 3 m / s is 40 Pa or less. According to the eleventh aspect, since the pressure loss can be suitably suppressed, the influence on existing air conditioning equipment provided on the upstream and downstream sides of the duct can be suitably reduced, and it becomes easy to retroactively install an air purifier while utilizing the existing air conditioning equipment as is.

[0085] A twelfth aspect of the present invention is the air purifying device according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, further comprising the duct. According to the twelfth aspect, by further comprising the duct, for example, it is possible to prepare a duct suitable for the size of the filter of the air purifying device, and to optimize the balance between the purification performance and pressure loss of the air purifying device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 10...air purification device, 12...first flow path space, 14...second flow path space, 16...third flow path space, 20...filter, 22...first filter surface, 24...second filter surface, 30...support structure, 32...guide rail, 34...base, 36...removal opening, 38...cover.

Claims

1. A filter is disposed inside a duct through which air flows and extends in a zigzag or wavy pattern in a predetermined direction in which the duct extends; a support structure that supports the filter such that a flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction is present between an inner wall surface of the duct and the filter, The support structure includes a base attached to a side wall of the duct extending in the predetermined direction, and a guide rail extending from the base toward the inside of the duct and supporting an outer edge of the filter; The guide rail supports the filter so that the filter can slide along the guide rail, the base portion includes a removal opening for removing the filter from inside the duct to outside the duct, and a cover for opening and closing the removal opening, The filter is removable from the inside of the duct to the outside of the duct through the removal opening with the base attached to the side wall. Air purifier.

2. In a plan view in the predetermined direction, a cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space is equal to or larger than a cross-sectional area occupied by the filter.

2. The air purifying device according to claim 1.

3. In a plan view when viewed in the predetermined direction, a cross-sectional area occupied by the flow path space is 50% or more of a flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the duct.

2. The air purifying device according to claim 1.

4. the filter includes a first filter surface extending in a zigzag or wavy manner in the predetermined direction, and a second filter surface extending in a zigzag or wavy manner in the predetermined direction on an opposite side to the first filter surface, the support structure supports the filter such that a first flow path space is present between the inner wall surface of the duct and the first filter surface, the first flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction, and a second flow path space is present between the inner wall surface of the duct and the second filter surface, the second flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction. The air purifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The support structure supports the filter such that a third flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction is present between the inner wall surface of the duct and an outer edge portion of the filter extending in the predetermined direction.

5. The air purifying device according to claim 4.

6. the filter is a first filter, A second filter is disposed inside the duct and extends in a zigzag or wavy manner in the predetermined direction, the support structure supports the second filter such that a flow path space is present between the first filter and the second filter in a linear manner extending in the predetermined direction. The air purifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The guide rail is a first guide rail, and the removal opening is a first removal opening, the support structure further includes a second guide rail extending from the base toward the inside of the duct and supporting an outer edge of the second filter; the second guide rail supports the second filter so as to be slidable along the second guide rail; The base further includes a second removal opening for removing the second filter from inside the duct to outside the duct, the cover is configured to open and close at least one of the first removal opening and the second removal opening, The second filter is removable from the inside of the duct to the outside of the duct through the second removal opening with the base attached to the side wall.

7. The air purifying device according to claim 6.

8. A photocatalytic filter disposed inside the duct and extending in the predetermined direction; Further comprising a light source that irradiates excitation light toward the photocatalytic filter; The support structure supports the photocatalytic filter so that a flow path space extending linearly in the predetermined direction exists between the filter and the photocatalytic filter. The air purifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. The support structure supports the light source such that the light source is located between the filter and the photocatalytic filter.

9. An air purifying device according to claim 8.

10. The support structure further includes another guide rail extending from the base toward the inside of the duct and supporting an outer edge of the photocatalytic filter; The other guide rail supports the photocatalytic filter so as to be slidable along the other guide rail, The base further includes another removal opening for removing the photocatalyst filter from inside the duct to outside the duct, the cover is capable of opening and closing at least one of the removal opening and the separate removal opening; The photocatalytic filter can be removed from the inside of the duct to the outside of the duct through the separate removal opening with the base attached to the side wall.

9. An air purifying device according to claim 8.

11. The pressure loss is configured to be 40 Pa or less when the air flow velocity inside the duct is 3 m / s. The air purifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

12. The duct further comprises: The air purifying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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