Humidifier

Abstract

To improve humidifying capacity of a water absorbing member.SOLUTION: A humidifying device comprises a humidifying mechanism (40) comprising: a rotary frame (45) to be rotated by a driving mechanism (41); a water absorbing member (70) held inside the rotary frame (45), and through which air passes in an axial direction of the rotary frame (45); and a water storage part (33) for storing water to be supplied to the water absorbing member (70). An outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is provided with a limiting mechanism (100) for limiting an outflow of air passing from the inside of the rotary frame (45).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a humidification device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a humidifier that humidifies air. The humidifier includes a water storage unit and a humidifying mechanism having a rotating frame. The humidifying mechanism includes a rotating frame and a water-absorbing member held inside the rotating frame. When the rotating frame rotates, a ladle-shaped water supply member attached to the rotating frame moves through the water in the water storage unit below the rotating frame, drawing up water. When the water supply member that has drawn up the water moves to the upper side of the rotating frame, the water inside the water supply member is supplied to the water-absorbing member through a spout. Air passing through the water-absorbing member in the axial direction of the rotating frame is humidified by the water adhering to the water-absorbing member. The humidified air is supplied to a target space. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-167443 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the humidifier of Patent Document 1, some of the air flowing toward the water-absorbing member is humidified by passing through the water-absorbing member, but some flows radially outward from the rotating frame without passing through the water-absorbing member due to the ventilation resistance of the water-absorbing member. If this air escapes outside the rotating frame, it merges with the air downstream of the water-absorbing member without being humidified by the water-absorbing member. If a large amount of air escapes outside the rotating frame in this way, the air humidifying capacity will decrease.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a humidifier that suppresses a decrease in humidifying capacity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The humidifying device of the first aspect is a rotary frame (45) rotated by a drive mechanism (41); a water absorption member (70) held inside the rotary frame (45) and through which air passes in the axial direction of the rotary frame (45); and a water storage section (33) for storing water to be supplied to the water absorption member (70); a humidifying mechanism (40) having A restricting structure (100) is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) to restrict the outflow of air passing through from the inside of the rotary frame (45).

[0007] In the first aspect, the limiting structure (100) can limit the flow of air from the inside of the rotary frame (45) to the outer peripheral surface. This reduces the amount of air that escapes from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) to the outside of the rotary frame (45) without passing through the water-absorbing member (70), thereby preventing a decrease in the amount of humidification. This in turn prevents a decrease in the humidifying capacity of the humidifier.

[0008] The second aspect is the first aspect, the rotary frame (45) further includes a first frame (50), a second frame (60) that sandwiches and fixes the water absorption member (70) between the first frame (50) and the second frame (60), and a water supply member (80) that draws up water from the water storage section (33) and supplies the drawn water to the water absorption member (70); The limiting structure (100) is composed of the outer peripheral surface of the first frame (50), the outer peripheral surface of the second frame (60), and the water supply member (80).

[0009] In the second aspect, the limiting structure (100) is formed by the outer peripheral surface of the first frame (50), the bucket (80), and the outer peripheral surface of the second frame (60). This makes it possible to suppress air leakage to the outside of the rotating frame (45) even when the rotating frame (45), the bucket (80), and the second frame (60) are provided.

[0010] In a third aspect, in the second aspect, The rotary frame (45) is intake holes (55, 57) for taking in water from the water storage section (33); a water supply member (80) that stores the water taken in through the intake holes (55, 57) and supplies the stored water to the water absorbing member (70); and The intake holes (55, 57) are formed on the rotary frame (45) on the upstream side of the air flow that flows in the axial direction.

[0011] In the third aspect, the intake holes (55, 57) are oriented upstream of the air flow, which can prevent water from being splashed along with the air flow.

[0012] In a fourth aspect, in the second aspect, The second frame (60) has a claw portion (65) for being fixed to the first frame, The first frame (50) has intake holes (55, 57) that take in water from the water storage section (33) and supply it into the water supply member (80), The claws (65) engage with the intake holes (55, 57).

[0013] In the fourth embodiment, the intake holes (55, 57) can serve both to take in water from the water storage section (33) and to fix the second frame (60).

[0014] In a fifth aspect, in the third aspect, The intake holes (55, 57) are A plurality of the rotary frame (45) are arranged along the outer periphery thereof, and The rotary frame (45) is formed so that when it reaches its lowest point due to rotation, it is at a height position lower than the lowest water level in the water storage section (33).

[0015] In the fifth embodiment, the intake holes (55, 57) can take in water even when the water level in the water reservoir (33) is at its lowest level. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an air purifier according to an embodiment. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the inside of the air purifier. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the humidifying unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the humidification rotor. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the first frame. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side view of the humidification rotor seen from the first frame side. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a side view of the first frame as seen from the water absorbing member side. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of the portion surrounded by the dashed line in B2 of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of the part surrounded by the dashed line in B2 of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective view of the area surrounded by B1 in FIG. 4, as viewed from the water-absorbing member side. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the air flow in the humidification rotor. [Figure 13] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating the limiting structure, in which (A) is a front view of the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame, and (B) is a diagram illustrating the position of the water-absorbing member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Since the drawings are intended to conceptually explain the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary to facilitate understanding.

[0018] (1) Overall configuration of the humidifier The overall configuration of the humidifier will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. In the following description, terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "right," and "left" generally refer to the directions indicated by the arrows in Figure 1.

[0019] The humidifier of this embodiment constitutes an air purifier (10) that purifies air. The air purifier (10) humidifies the air in a target space. In addition, the air purifier (10) purifies the air in the target space. The air purifier (10) has a casing (11) and a plurality of components housed in an air passage (P) inside the casing (11). The plurality of components include, in order along the air flow, a prefilter (21), a fan (22), a discharge unit (23), a UV irradiation unit (24), a HEPA filter (25), a deodorizing filter (26), and a humidification unit (30).

[0020] (1-1) Casing As shown in Fig. 1, the casing (11) is formed in the shape of a hollow box. The casing (11) is formed in the shape of a vertically long rectangular parallelepiped. The casing (11) has a top plate (11a), a bottom plate (11b), a front plate (11c), a rear plate (11d), a right side plate (11e), and a left side plate (11f).

[0021] An air outlet (12) is formed in the top plate (11a). The air outlet (12) is rectangular and located slightly rearward of the top plate (11a). Two flaps (13) are provided in the air outlet (12). The flaps (13) are plate-shaped and extend from the left to the right ends of the air outlet (12). The flaps (13) open and close the air outlet (12) and adjust the direction of the air blown out.

[0022] An operation panel (14) is provided on the top plate (11a). The operation panel (14) is located toward the front of the top plate (11a). A user can operate the operation panel (14) to input an operation mode and various settings of the air purifier (10).

[0023] A first suction port (15) is formed at the lower end of the front plate (11c) and extends horizontally from the left to the right ends of the casing (11).

[0024] A second suction port (16) is formed in the right side plate (11e). The second suction port (16) is rectangular and is formed in the lower part of the right side plate (11e). An openable lid (17) is provided in the upper part of the right side plate (11e). The openable lid (17) opens and closes an access opening (18) for the tank (32) of the humidification unit (30). The openable lid (17) is configured to tilt to the right with its lower part as a fulcrum. A drawer opening (19) is formed in the upper part of the openable lid (17). A user places their hand on the drawer opening (19) and pulls out the upper part of the openable lid (17) to the right (toward the user). This causes the upper part of the openable lid (17) to tilt to the right, opening the access opening (18). This allows the user to remove the tank (32) from the casing (11) through the access opening (18).

[0025] The left side plate (11f) is formed with a third suction port (20). The third suction port (20) is rectangular and is formed in the lower part of the left side plate (11f).

[0026] An air passage (P) is formed inside the casing (11). The first air inlet (15), the second air inlet (16), and the third air inlet (20) form an inlet end of the air passage (P). The air outlet (12) forms an outlet end of the air passage (P).

[0027] (1-2) Pre-filter As shown in Fig. 2, two prefilters (21) are provided inside the casing (11). One of the prefilters (21) is disposed on the far side of the second suction port (16), and the other prefilter (21) is disposed on the far side of the third suction port (20). The prefilters (21) capture relatively small amounts of dust in the air.

[0028] (1-3) Fans The fan (22) is disposed at the bottom of the air passage (P). The fan (22) transports air through the air passage (P). The fan (22) is a centrifugal fan, specifically a sirocco fan. The fan (22) is a double-suction fan, with suction ports formed at both axial ends of its drive shaft. The blowout port of the fan (22) faces upward. The fan (22) has a fan motor (22a) that drives an impeller. The fan motor (22a) is disposed closer to the left side panel (11f). When the fan (22) is operated, air from the target space is drawn into the air passage (P) through the first suction port (15), the second suction port (16), and the third suction port (20). The air flowing through the air passage (P) is blown out into the target space through the blowout port (12).

[0029] (1-4) Discharge unit The discharge unit (23) is disposed between the fan (22) and the HEPA filter (25). The discharge unit (23) is disposed in the air passage (P) near the left side plate (11f). The discharge unit (23) generates active species for oxidative decomposition of air through discharge. The discharge unit (23) generates a discharge between the tip of a linear discharge electrode and the flat surface of a plate-shaped counter electrode. The discharge unit (23) generates a streamer discharge that forms a substantially conical discharge region from the tip of the discharge electrode toward the counter electrode.

[0030] (1-5) UV irradiation unit The UV irradiation unit (24) is disposed between the fan (22) and the HEPA filter (25). The UV irradiation unit (24) is disposed near the left side panel (11f) in the air passage (P). The UV irradiation unit (24) sterilizes viruses and bacteria in the air or on the surface of target components by emitting ultraviolet rays. The UV irradiation unit (24) has an LED that emits ultraviolet rays and a control circuit that controls the LED (not shown). The peak wavelength of the ultraviolet rays emitted by the LED is 255 nm or more and 275 nm or less. The LED irradiates the ultraviolet rays toward the HEPA filter (25). Therefore, the HEPA filter (25) can be sterilized by the ultraviolet rays.

[0031] (1-6) HEPA filter The HEPA filter (25) (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) is disposed between the UV irradiation unit (24) and the deodorizing filter (26). The HEPA filter (25) is formed in a plate shape with its thickness direction corresponding to the vertical direction. The HEPA filter (25) has an electrostatic function of capturing particles by electrostatic force. An antibacterial agent is added to the HEPA filter (25). The HEPA filter (25) may have a laminated structure in which two or more filter materials are stacked in the air passage direction.

[0032] (1-7) Deodorizing filter The deodorizing filter (26) is disposed between the HEPA filter (25) and the humidification unit (30). The deodorizing filter (26) is formed in a plate shape with its thickness direction corresponding to the vertical direction. The deodorizing filter (26) is an adsorption part that adsorbs harmful substances and odorous substances in the air. The deodorizing filter (26) has a base material through which air can pass and an adsorbent material such as activated carbon supported on the base material.

[0033] (1-8) Humidification unit The humidifying unit (30) is disposed between the deodorizing filter (26) and the air outlet (12). The humidifying unit (30) is disposed in a humidifying space (31) located in an upper portion of the air passage (P). The humidifying unit (30) adds water to the air flowing through the air passage (P). The humidifying unit (30) includes a tank (32), a water tray (33), and a humidifying mechanism (40).

[0034] The tank (32) is a container for storing water for humidification. The tank (32) appropriately supplies the water therein to the water tray (33). The tank (32) is configured to be able to be inserted into and removed from the casing (11) through the access opening (18).

[0035] The water tray (33) stores the water supplied from the tank (32). The water tray (33) constitutes a water storage section for supplying water to the water absorbing member (70) of the humidification mechanism (40). The water tray (33) is a container with an open top.

[0036] (2) Overall configuration of the humidification mechanism The humidification mechanism (40) humidifies water flowing through the air passage (P). The humidification mechanism (40) includes a drive mechanism (41), a drive shaft (42) driven by the drive mechanism (41), a shaft support (43) that supports the drive shaft (42), and a humidification rotor (44) connected to the drive shaft (42). The humidification rotor (44) divides the humidification space (31) into a primary space (31a) and a secondary space (31b). The primary space (31a) is formed upstream of the humidification rotor (44). The secondary space (31b) is formed downstream of the humidification rotor (44).

[0037] As shown in Fig. 2, the drive mechanism (41) is disposed in the primary space (31a). In this embodiment, the drive mechanism (41) is formed by a motor. The drive shaft (42) extends horizontally to the right from the drive mechanism (41). The drive shaft (42) is connected to the central axis of the rotation frame (45) of the humidification rotor (44).

[0038] The humidification mechanism (40) of this embodiment is provided with two shaft supports (43). One of these shaft supports (43) is located in the primary space (31a), and the other is located in the secondary space (31b). Each shaft support (43) rotatably supports a drive shaft (42) at its upper end. The shaft supports (43) of this embodiment are formed integrally with the water tray (33).

[0039] (3) Humidification rotor The configuration of the humidification rotor (44) will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 13. In the following description, the terms "axial direction," "radial direction," "circumferential direction," and "rotational direction" generally refer to the axial direction, radial direction, circumferential direction, and rotational direction of the rotating frame (45), respectively. The term "axial direction" refers to the direction along which the rotation axis (X), which is the center of rotation of the rotating frame (45) shown in FIG. 3, extends. The term "outer surface" in the following description refers to the surface of the outer portion of the rotating frame (45) when viewed from the radial outside toward the outer peripheral surface of the rotating frame (45), and the term "inner surface" refers to the surface of the inner portion of the rotating frame (45) when viewed from the axial center toward the radial outside. The term "outer peripheral surface" of the rotating frame (45) refers to the outer surface of the rotating frame (45) when viewed from the radial outside toward the outer peripheral surface of the rotating frame (45).

[0040] The humidification rotor (44) imparts water contained in a water-absorbing member (70) to the air in the humidification space (31). The humidification rotor (44) has a rotary frame (45) rotated by the drive mechanism (41) and a water-absorbing member (70) held in the rotary frame (45). The rotary frame (45) is made of a resin material. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the rotary frame (45) has a first frame (50) and a second frame (60). The water-absorbing member (70) is held inside the rotary frame (45) by being sandwiched between the first frame (50) and the second frame (60).

[0041] The rotary frame (45) is provided with a bucket (80) and a spout (92). The bucket (80) is a water supply member that draws up water from the water tray (33) and supplies the drawn water to the water-absorbing member (70). The spout (92) supplies the water from the bucket (80) to the water-absorbing member (70). As the rotary frame (45) rotates, the bucket (80) alternately moves between a first position where it is immersed in the water inside the water tray (33) and a second position where the water in the bucket (80) is supplied to the water-absorbing member (70) through the spout (92).

[0042] (3-1) First slot The first frame (50) is located on the upstream side of the air passage (P) of the rotary frame (45). The first frame (50) is located on the primary space (31a) side. The first frame (50) has a first boss portion (51) to which the drive shaft (42) is fixed, an annular first frame body (52), and a plurality of first ribs (53) connecting the first boss portion (51) and the first frame body (52).

[0043] The first boss portion (51) is located at the center of the rotary frame (45). The first ribs (53) extend radially outward from the first boss portion (51) toward the first frame body (52). The first ribs (53) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0044] The first frame body (52) is formed in an annular shape coaxial with the rotation axis (X) of the rotary frame (45). The first frame (50) is provided with a plurality of buckets (80) and guide portions (90) corresponding to each bucket (80). The guide portions (90) are formed with spouts (92). The first frame body (52) has a base portion (52a) in the shape of an annular plate. The thickness direction of the base portion (52a) corresponds to the axial direction. The first frame body (52) is formed with a peripheral wall (58) extending from the outer periphery toward the primary space (31a). The peripheral wall (58) is provided around the entire periphery of the first frame body (52).

[0045] As shown in FIG. 5, the first frame body (52) is composed of a first part (C1) and a plurality of second parts (C2) that are configured separately from the first part (C1). The first part (C1) and each of the second parts (C2) are resin-molded products made of different parts. The first part (C1) and each of the second parts (C2) are manufactured by injection molding in a mold. The first part (C1) is the portion of the first frame body (52) excluding the second part (C2). The first frame body (52) is configured by attaching each of the second parts (C2) to the first part (C1).

[0046] The plurality of buckets 80 include first buckets 80A attached to the first component C1 and second buckets 80B each formed of the second component C2. The rotary frame 45 of this embodiment is provided with six first buckets 80A and six second buckets 80B. While these numbers are merely exemplary, it is preferable that the number of first buckets 80A and the number of second buckets 80B are the same. It is preferable that the first buckets 80A and the second buckets 80B are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction of the rotary frame 45.

[0047] The second bucket (80B) has first claws (56) on its surface facing the first component (C1). As shown in Fig. 6, the base (52a) has first holes (54) that engage with the first claws (56). Each second bucket (80B) is fixed to the first component (C1).

[0048] A plurality of second holes (55) are formed in the base portion (52a). The second holes (55) communicate with some of the plurality of first holes (54). In other words, the first holes (54) and the second holes (55) are integrally formed in the first frame body (52). The second claws (65) of the second frame (60) are caught in the second holes (55).

[0049] (3-2) Second slot The second frame (60) is located on the downstream side of the air passage (P) of the rotary frame (45). The second frame (60) is located on the secondary space (31b) side. The second frame (60) has a second boss portion (61) to which the drive shaft (42) is fixed, an annular second frame body (62), and a plurality of second ribs (63) connecting the second boss portion (61) and the second frame body (62).

[0050] The second boss portion (61) is located at the center of the rotary frame (45). The second ribs (63) extend radially outward from the second boss portion (61) toward the second frame main body (62). The second ribs (63) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0051] The second frame body (62) is formed in an annular shape coaxial with the rotation axis (X) of the rotary frame (45).

[0052] As shown in FIG. 4, the second frame 60 is provided with a plurality of pressure plates 64. In this embodiment, the second frame 60 is provided with 12 pressure plates 64, but this number is merely an example. The pressure plates 64 are formed in the shape of plates that protrude from the second frame main body 62 toward the first frame 50. The pressure plates 64 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The pressure plates 64 are arranged on the outer peripheral edge of the second frame 60. The radially outer surfaces of the pressure plates 64 form the outer peripheral surface of the second frame 60.

[0053] The multiple presser plates (64) include a first presser plate (64A) provided with a second claw (65) and a second presser plate (64B) not provided with a second claw (65). The first presser plate (64A) and the second presser plate (64B) are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The second claw (65) of the first presser plate (64A) is hooked into the first hole (54) formed in the first frame body (52). This fixes the first frame (50) and the second frame (60) to each other.

[0054] The second frame (60) is provided with a plurality of holding portions (66). In this embodiment, the second frame (60) is provided with 12 holding portions (66), but this number is merely an example. The plurality of holding portions (66) are provided on the inner edge of the second frame body (62). The plurality of holding portions (66) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The holding portions (66) constitute members for fixing the water-absorbing member (70) inside the rotary frame (45).

[0055] (3-3) Water-absorbing material The water-absorbing member (70) is formed in a disk shape coaxial with the rotation axis (X) of the rotary frame (45). The thickness direction of the water-absorbing member (70) corresponds to the axial direction or the air flow direction. The water-absorbing member (70) is made of a water-absorbing resin material. The water-absorbing member (70) has a disk portion (71) and a flange portion (72) extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the disk portion (71). A shaft opening (73) through which the drive shaft (42) passes is formed in the center of the disk portion (71).

[0056] 7, a first ventilation surface (74) is formed at one axial end of the water absorption member (70), and a second ventilation surface (75) is formed at the other axial end of the water absorption member (70). The first ventilation surface (74) corresponds to the surface of the water absorption member (70) that is on the upstream side of the air flow. The second ventilation surface (75) corresponds to the surface of the water absorption member (70) that is on the downstream side of the air flow.

[0057] A welded portion (76) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the disk portion (71) of the water-absorbent member (70). The welded portion (76) is formed around the entire outer peripheral surface of the water-absorbent member (70). The welded portion (76) is formed by melting a water-absorbing material and then solidifying the material. On the other hand, the welded portion (76) is not formed on the first ventilation surface (74) or the second ventilation surface (75) of the water-absorbent member (70). Therefore, the first ventilation surface (74) and the second ventilation surface (75) of the water-absorbent member (70) have higher air and water permeability than the outer peripheral surface of the water-absorbent member (70).

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 7, a pair of grooves (77, 78) is formed in the outer edge of the disk portion (71) of the water absorption member (70) so as to sandwich the flange portion (72). In other words, the pair of grooves (77, 78) is composed of a first groove (77) on the first ventilation surface (74) side and a second groove (78) on the second ventilation surface (75) side. The pair of grooves (77, 78) is formed in a concave shape recessed radially inward from the outer edge of the disk portion (71). Six pairs of grooves (77, 78) are provided in the disk portion (71) at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The number of pairs of grooves (77, 78) is merely an example. An insertion hole (79) extending in the axial direction is formed in the disk portion (71) so as to connect the pairs of grooves (77, 78) to each other. One insertion hole (79) is provided for each pair of grooves (77, 78). The pair of grooves (77, 78) is located radially inward of the welded portion (76).

[0059] (3-4) Detailed configuration of buckets The bucket (80) shown in FIGS. 8 to 12 constitutes a water container having an opening (80a). A water storage space (S) is formed inside the bucket (80). The opening (80a) of the bucket (80) faces the rotation direction of the rotary frame (45). The water storage space (S) is closed by the bucket (80) in all directions other than the rotation direction. In other words, the bucket (80) is formed in a cylindrical shape with a bottom, with one end facing the rotation direction being open and the other end opposite to the rotation direction being closed. The bucket (80) of this embodiment extends in the circumferential direction of the rotary frame (45).

[0060] The bucket (80) has a first plate portion (81), a second plate portion (82), a third plate portion (83), and a fourth plate portion (84). The first plate portion (81) is located radially outward of the bucket (80). The second plate portion (82) is located radially inward of the bucket (80). The third plate portion (83) is located axially on the water absorption member (70) side. The fourth plate portion (84) is located axially on the opposite side of the water absorption member (70). The fourth plate portion (84) of the first bucket (80A) is formed by a part of the base portion (52a) of the first frame body (52). The fourth plate portion (84) of the second bucket (80B) contacts the base portion (52a) when the first claws (56) are engaged with the first holes (54).

[0061] The third plate portion (83) has a first wall (83a), a second wall (83b), and a third wall (83c). The first wall (83a) is formed on the radially outer side of the third plate portion (83), and the second wall (83b) is formed on the radially inner side of the third plate portion (83). The first wall (83a) is located farther from the fourth plate portion (84) in the axial direction than the third wall (83c). The third wall (83c) is continuous with a radially inner end of the second wall (83b) and a radially inner end of the first wall (83a).

[0062] When viewed in a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X), the first plate portion (81) and the second plate portion (82) extend in the axial direction, and the fourth plate portion (84) extends in the radial direction. When viewed in a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X), the first wall (83a) and the second wall (83b) extend in the radial direction. When viewed in a cross section passing through the rotation axis (X), the third wall (83c) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) as it moves away from the water-absorbing member (70). Strictly speaking, the term "cross section passing through the rotation axis (X)" refers to a cross section on an imaginary plane that passes through the rotation axis (X) and extends in the same direction as the rotation axis (X).

[0063] (3-5) Guide section configuration The guide portion (90) shown in Figures 9 and 10 guides water flowing out from the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) to the water-absorbing member (70). The guide portion (90) is provided on the rotary frame (45) so as to be adjacent to the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) in the direction of rotation. The guide portion (90) is located radially inward of the opening (80a) of the bucket (80).

[0064] The guide portion (90) has a recess (91) recessed radially inward. A spout (92) is formed inside the recess (91). The spout (92) opens toward the water-absorbent member (70). Specifically, the spout (92) opens toward the first ventilation surface (74) of the water-absorbent member (70). The first ventilation surface (74) is the surface of the water-absorbent member (70) on the axial end side.

[0065] By opening the spout (92) toward the first ventilation surface (74) of the water-absorbent member (70), the water in the bucket (80) is more likely to come into contact with the air passing through the water-absorbent member (70). This improves the humidifying capacity of the water-absorbent member (70). In particular, the bottom surface (97) of the recess (91) is inclined so as to approach the rotation axis (X) toward the water-absorbent member (70) (see FIG. 7). Therefore, in the second position, water in the water storage space (S) is more likely to flow along the bottom surface (97) and be guided to the water-absorbent member (70).

[0066] In particular, in the water-absorbent member (70) of this embodiment, a welded portion (76) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the disk portion (71) that is the main body of the water-absorbent member (70). If the spout (92) were to open toward the outer peripheral surface of the water-absorbent member (70), the welded portion (76) would prevent water flowing out of the spout (92) from moving into the water-absorbent member (70). In contrast, by opening the spout (92) toward the first ventilation surface (74), the welded portion (76) can be prevented from interfering with the movement of water into the water-absorbent member (70).

[0067] Furthermore, the spout (92) of this embodiment opens toward the first groove (77) on the first ventilation surface (74) side of the water-absorbent member (70). The spout (92) and the first groove (77) face each other in the axial direction. This makes it easier for some of the water that passes through the spout (92) to enter the water-absorbent member (70) through the first groove (77).

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the guide portion (90) has a guide plate (99). The guide plate (99) is disposed radially opposite the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) with the spout (92) interposed therebetween. The guide plate (99) has a flat surface (99a) facing the opening (80a) of the bucket (80). The flat surface (99a) of the guide plate (99) faces the opposite side to the direction of rotation. The flat surface of the guide plate (99) is located radially outward and further back in the direction of rotation than the second wall (83b). Water flowing out from the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) collides with the flat surface (99a) of the guide plate (99). The colliding water changes direction from the radial direction to the axial direction and is guided to the spout (92).

[0069] (3-6) Configuration of the holding part As shown in Fig. 7, the second frame (60) is provided with holding portions (66). The holding portions (66) are provided corresponding to the respective spouts (92). The holding portions (66) have a water-blocking wall (66a), a fixing pin (66b) protruding from the water-blocking wall (66a) toward the water-absorbent member (70), and a fixing wall (66c) surrounding the fixing pin (66b).

[0070] The water impermeable wall (66a) is located on the axially opposite side of the spout (92) with the water absorbent member (70) in between. The water impermeable wall (66a) faces the spout (92) with the water absorbent member (70) interposed therebetween. The water impermeable wall (66a) and the water absorbent member (70) overlap in the axial direction.

[0071] The surface area of ​​the water impermeable wall (66a) on the spout (92) side is larger than the opening area of ​​the spout (92). The water impermeable wall (66a) prevents water supplied from the spout (92) toward the water absorbent member (70) from passing through the water absorbent member (70). This increases the amount of water retained inside the water absorbent member (70).

[0072] The fixing pin (66b) is located at the center of the surface of the water impermeable wall (66a) facing the water absorbent member (70). The fixing pin (66b) is formed in a trapezoidal cone shape whose outer diameter decreases toward the water absorbent member (70). The fixing pin (66b) is inserted into an insertion hole (79) of the water absorbent member (70). The fixing pin (66b) fits into the insertion hole (79), thereby fixing the water absorbent member (70) to the second frame (60).

[0073] The fixed wall (66c) is formed in a U-shape that is open radially outward when viewed in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction. An annular flange (67) that protrudes axially is formed on the surface of the second frame body (62) facing the water absorbent member (70). Two radially outer ends of the fixed wall (66c) are continuous with the inner peripheral surface of the flange (67). The fixed wall (66c) fits into the second groove (78) of the water absorbent member (70). The water absorbent member (70) is fixed to the second frame (60) by fitting the fixed wall (66c) into the water absorbent member (70).

[0074] As described above, the water impermeable wall (66a) is provided with the fixing pins (66b) and the fixing wall (66c) as fixing portions. The water impermeable wall (66a) not only serves to prevent water from passing through the water absorbent member (70) but also serves as a member for fixing the water absorbent member (70).

[0075] (3-7) Water inlet As shown in FIG. 8 , the rotary frame (45) has intake holes (55, 57) through which water from the water tray (33) is taken in. The intake holes (55, 57) supply the taken-in water into the bucket (80). The intake holes (55, 57) are formed on the rotary frame (45) on the upstream side of the axial air flow. Specifically, the intake holes (55, 57) are a plurality of second holes (55) and a plurality of third holes (57) formed in the base (52a) of the first frame body (52). The third hole (57) corresponds to the first bucket (80A). The second hole (55) corresponds to the second bucket (80B). The second hole (55) serves both as an intake hole through which water is taken into the second bucket (80B) and as an engagement hole into which the second claws (65) of the second frame (60) are engaged.

[0076] The second hole (55) is formed in a rectangular shape when viewed in the axial direction. The third hole (57) is formed in a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction. The second hole (55) is located forward of the opening (80a) of the second bucket (80B) in the rotational direction. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the third hole (57) is located forward of the opening (80a) of the first bucket (80A) in the rotational direction.

[0077] The second hole (55) and the third hole (57) are positioned so that when the rotary frame (45) reaches its lowest point due to rotation, they are at a height position lower than the lowest water level in the water tray (33). Specifically, the second hole (55) and the third hole (57) are positioned closer to the outer peripheral edge than to the center in the radial direction of the base (52a). More specifically, a portion of each of the second hole (55) and the third hole (57) is formed so as to be in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall (58) when the rotary frame (45) is viewed from the primary space (31a) side.

[0078] When the second hole (55) is immersed in the water in the water tray (33), the water flows into the second bucket (80B) through the second hole (55). When the third hole (57) is immersed in the water in the water tray (33), the water flows into the first bucket (80A) through the third hole (57).

[0079] (4) Air flow bypass issue in the humidification rotor Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a cross section passing through the rotation axis of the humidification rotor. The arrows in Figure 12 indicate the direction of air flow. As shown in Figure 12, the water-absorbing member (70) has a resistance to air flow, and therefore, part of the air flowing through the primary space (31a) toward the first ventilation surface (74) passes through the water-absorbing member (70) and is humidified, while the other part of the air flows radially outward on the first ventilation surface (74) of the rotary frame (45).

[0080] Therefore, if there are gaps on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) that connect the inside and outside of the rotary frame, the air flowing radially outward will pass through the gaps and escape to the outside of the rotary frame. The air flowing through such gaps does not pass through the water-absorbing member (70) and flows into the secondary space (31b) without being humidified, and there it joins with the humidified air. If the amount of air flowing through such gaps increases, the amount of humidification of the air passing through the humidifying mechanism decreases, and as a result, the humidifying capacity of the humidifier decreases.

[0081] In contrast, in this embodiment, a limiting structure (100) is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) to limit the outflow of air passing through from the inside of the rotary frame (45). The limiting structure (100) of this embodiment is a structure on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) that does not have any holes through which air can pass. In other words, no holes that communicate between the inside and outside of the rotary frame (45) are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45). The limiting structure (100) of this embodiment will be described below.

[0082] (4-1) Restrictive Structure As shown in FIG. 13 , the limiting structure 100 is composed of the outer peripheral surface of the first frame 50, the outer peripheral surface of the second frame 60, and the bucket 80. Strictly speaking, the first frame body 52 includes the first bucket 80A constituting the first component C1 and the second bucket 80B constituting the second component C2. Therefore, the limiting structure 100 of this embodiment is composed of the outer peripheral surface of the first frame body 52 and the outer peripheral surface of the second frame body 62. The second bucket 80B is fixed to the base 52a with its first claws 56 hooked into its first holes 54. In this state, the fourth plate 84 of the second bucket 80B is in contact with the surface of the base 52a facing the water-absorbing member 70.

[0083] As shown in Fig. 13(A), the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is formed by fitting together the outer peripheral surface of the first frame (50), the outer peripheral surface of the second frame (60), and the outer surface of the first plate portion (81) of the second bucket (80B) without any gaps. In other words, the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is formed by fitting the first frame body (52) and the second frame body (62) together. As a result, no hole that communicates the inside and outside of the rotary frame (45) in the radial direction is formed in the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45). In other words, the limiting structure (100) of this embodiment is the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45).

[0084] When the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is viewed from the front, first recesses (101) are formed in the first frame body (52) between the first bucket (80A) and the second bucket (80B) that are adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction. Twelve first recesses (101) are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45). Each first recess (101) has the same shape. The pressing plate (64) of the second frame (60) fits into the first recesses (101).

[0085] Specifically, the first recess (101) has a first bottom portion (101a) extending in the circumferential direction and a pair of first side portions (101b) extending from both ends of the first bottom portion (101a) toward the secondary space (31b) (the water-absorbing member (70) side). The length of the first bottom portion (101a) is equal to the length of the side of the presser plate (64) extending in the circumferential direction. Each of the first side portions (101b) is equal to the length of the side of the presser plate (64) extending in the axial direction. In other words, when the presser plate (64) is fitted in the first recess (101), the first recess (101) and the presser plate (64) are in contact with each other when the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is viewed from the front.

[0086] Furthermore, when the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is viewed from the front, second recesses (102) are formed in the second frame (60) between two circumferentially adjacent pressing plates (64). Twelve second recesses (102) are formed on the outer periphery of the rotary frame (45). Each second recess (102) has the same shape. The first buckets (80A) and the second buckets (80B) are fitted alternately in the circumferential direction into the twelve second recesses (102).

[0087] Specifically, the second recess (102) has a second bottom portion (102a) extending in the circumferential direction and a pair of second side portions (102b) extending from circumferential ends of the second bottom portion (102a) toward the primary space (31a). The length of the second bottom portion (102a) is equal to the circumferential length of the outer surfaces of the first plate portions (81) of the first bucket (80A) and the second bucket (80B). The length of the second side portions (102b) is equal to the radial length of the outer surfaces of the first plate portions (81) of the first bucket (80A) and the second bucket (80B). That is, when the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is viewed from the front while the first bucket (80A) and the second bucket (80B) are accommodated in the second recess (102), the second recess (102) and the first bucket (80A) are in contact with each other, and the second recess (102) and the second bucket (80B) are in contact with each other.

[0088] In this manner, the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is formed so that the presser plate (64) of the second frame body (62) is fitted into the first recess (101) of the first frame body (52), and the outer surfaces of the buckets (80) of the first frame body (52) are fitted into the second recess (102) of the second frame body (62). As a result, the first side edge (101b) of the first recess (101) (the second side edge (102b) of the second recess (102)) is perpendicular to the first ventilation surface (74) (see FIG. 13(B)). Therefore, air creeping radially outward on the first ventilation surface (74) is more likely to collide with the inner surfaces of the second plate portions (82) of the first bucket (80A) and the second bucket (80B) and the inner surface of the presser plate (64), making it more difficult for air to escape radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45).

[0089] (5) Driving behavior The operation of the air purifier (10) will now be described.

[0090] (5-1) Basic operation of air purifier When the air purifier (10) is operating, the fan (22), the discharge unit (23), the UV irradiation unit (24), and the humidification unit (30) are driven. As shown in Fig. 2, air from the target space is drawn into the air passage (P) through the first inlet (15), the second inlet (16), and the third inlet (20). The air drawn through the second inlet (16) and the third inlet (20) passes through each of the prefilters (21). The prefilters (21) capture relatively large dust particles in the air.

[0091] The air that has passed through the pre-filter (21) passes around the discharge unit (23) and the UV irradiation unit (24). The active species generated by the discharge unit (23) oxidize and decompose odorous and harmful components in the air. The ultraviolet rays emitted by the UV irradiation unit (24) kill viruses and bacteria in the air.

[0092] The air then passes through the HEPA filter (25) and the deodorizing filter (26) in that order, and then flows into the humidification space (31). The air in the humidification space (31) passes axially through the humidification rotor (44). At this time, water from the water-absorbing member (70) is applied to the air. The air humidified by the humidification rotor (44) is supplied to the target space through the outlet (12).

[0093] (5-2) Humidification unit operation When the air purifier (10) is in operation, the humidification unit (30) performs the following operations.

[0094] The drive mechanism (41) rotates the drive shaft (42), which causes the humidification rotor (44) to rotate about the rotation axis (X). When the rotary frame (45) rotates, the bucket (80) revolves around the rotation axis (X). When the bucket (80) moves below the rotary frame (45) and enters the water in the water tray (33), water enters the water storage space (S) of the bucket (80). When the bucket (80) moves upward and emerges from the water in the water tray (33), water is pumped into the water storage space (S) of the bucket (80).

[0095] When the bucket (80) moves further upward and reaches a predetermined first angular position in front of the upper end of the rotary frame (45), the water in the water storage space (S) starts to flow down toward the opening (80a).

[0096] As the rotary frame (45) continues to rotate, the water that has passed through the opening (80a) of the bucket (80) is guided by the guide portion (90) to the spout (92). Specifically, the guide portion (90) sends the water that has passed through the opening (80a) along the bottom surface (97) to the spout (92). The water that has passed through the spout (92) is supplied to the interior of the water-absorbent member (70) through the first ventilation surface (74) of the water-absorbent member (70). The water in the water-absorbent member (70) is applied to the air flowing through the humidification space (31).

[0097] As the rotary frame 45 rotates further, the bucket 80 moves to the lower side of the rotary frame 45 and again enters the water in the water tray 33. The above-mentioned operation is continuously repeated.

[0098] (6) Effects of the embodiment (6-1) Effect 1 In this embodiment, a restricting structure (100) is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) to restrict the outflow of air passing through from the inside of the rotary frame (45).

[0099] The restricting structure (100) restricts the flow of air from the interior of the rotary frame (45) to the outer peripheral surface. This prevents air moving radially outward on the first ventilation surface (74) of the rotary frame (45) without passing through the water-absorbing member (70) from leaking from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45). This prevents a decrease in the amount of humidification of air passing through the humidification rotor (44), thereby preventing a decrease in the humidifying capacity of the air purifier (10).

[0100] (6-2) Effect 2 In this embodiment, the limiting structure (100) is composed of the outer peripheral surface of the first frame (50), the outer peripheral surface of the second frame (60), and the second bucket (80B).

[0101] The outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is formed by combining the outer peripheral surfaces of the first frame (50), the second bucket (80B), and the second frame (60) so that they are flat, thereby suppressing the formation of gaps in the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) that communicate between the inside and outside of the rotary frame (45).

[0102] (6-3) Effect 3 In this embodiment, the second hole (55) and the third hole (57) (intake holes) are formed on the upstream side of the air flow that flows in the axial direction of the rotary frame (45). Since the second hole (55) and the third hole (57) face the upstream side of the air flow, water that flows into the second hole (55) and the third hole (57) can be prevented from being carried by the air flow and splashing into the air purifier (10). This prevents the splashed water from adhering to, for example, electrical components, and thus prevents the air purifier (10) from malfunctioning.

[0103] (6-4) Effect 4 In this embodiment, the second claws (65) engage with the second holes (55) (intake holes). The second holes (55) can be used both to take in water from the water tray (33) and to secure the second frame (60).

[0104] (6-5) Effect 5 In this embodiment, a plurality of holes (55) are arranged along the outer periphery of the rotary frame (45), and are formed so that when the rotary frame (45) reaches its lowest point as it rotates, it is at a height lower than the lowest water level in the water tray (33). This allows the second hole (55) and the third hole (57) to take in water even when the water in the water tray (33) is at its lowest water level. This allows water to be supplied to the bucket (80) even when the water tray (33) is at its lowest water level, thereby preventing a shortage of water supply to the water absorbent member (70).

[0105] (7) Other embodiments The limiting structure 100 may be configured so that no space is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame 45 that allows ventilation between the inside and outside of the rotary frame 45. The limiting structure 100 may have a sealed outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame 45. For example, the limiting structure 100 may have a sealed outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame 45 that is covered with a sealing member.

[0106] Although the embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that various modifications in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, the above embodiments, modifications, and other embodiments may be combined or substituted as appropriate as long as the functionality of the subject matter of the present disclosure is not impaired.

[0107] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. mentioned above are used to distinguish the terms to which these terms are attached, and do not limit the number or order of the terms. [Industrial Applicability]

[0108] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for humidification devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 33 Water tray (water storage section) 40 Humidification mechanism 41 Drive mechanism 45 rotating frame 50 1st slot 55,57 Intake hole 60 2nd slot 65 Second claw (claw part) 70 Water-absorbing material 80 Bucket (water supply member) 100 Restrictive Structure

Claims

1. a humidification mechanism (40) including a rotary frame (45) rotated by a drive mechanism (41), a water-absorbing member (70) held inside the rotary frame (45) and through which air passes in the axial direction of the rotary frame (45), a water storage section (33) for storing water to be supplied to the water-absorbing member (70), and a drive shaft (42) driven by the drive mechanism (41) and connected to the axis of the rotary frame (45), a limiting structure (100) that limits the outflow of air passing through from the inside of the rotary frame (45) is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45); the rotary frame (45) further includes a first frame (50), a second frame (60) that sandwiches and fixes the water absorption member (70) between the first frame (50) and the second frame (60), and a water supply member (80) that draws up water from the water storage section (33) and supplies the drawn water to the water absorption member (70), The limiting structure (100) is constituted by the outer peripheral surface of the first frame (50), the outer peripheral surface of the second frame (60), and the water supply member (80). humidifier.

2. The water supply members (80) are arranged in a plurality of rows in the circumferential direction of the rotary frame (45), an outer peripheral surface of the first frame (50) has a first recess (101) formed between the water supply members (80) adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction; The outer peripheral surface of the second frame (60) has plate-shaped pressing plates (64) arranged in the circumferential direction and protruding toward the first frame (50), The limiting structure (100) is formed by fitting the pressing plate (64) into the first recess (101). The humidifier according to claim 1 .

3. When a space upstream of the water absorbing member (70) in the air flow direction is defined as a primary space (31a) and a surface of the water absorbing member (70) facing the primary space (31a) is defined as a first ventilation surface (74), The water supply member (80) and the presser plate (64) are arranged so as to overlap the boundary line between the primary space (31a) and the first ventilation surface (74) when the outer peripheral surface of the rotary frame (45) is viewed from the front. The humidifier according to claim 2 .

4. The rotary frame (45) intake holes (55, 57) for taking in water from the water storage section (33); the water supply member (80) that stores water taken in through the intake holes (55, 57) and supplies the stored water to the water absorption member (70); and The intake holes (55, 57) are formed on the rotary frame (45) on the upstream side of the air flow that flows in the axial direction. The humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the second frame (60) has claw portions (65) for being fixed to the first frame, the first frame (50) has intake holes (55, 57) that take in water from the water storage section (33) and supply it into the water supply member (80); The claws (65) engage with the intake holes (55, 57). The humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The intake holes (55, 57) are A plurality of the rotors are arranged along the outer periphery of the rotary frame (45), and When the rotary frame (45) reaches its lowest point due to rotation, the height is lower than the lowest water level in the water storage section (33). The humidifier according to claim 4.

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