air purifier

Abstract

To establish control of a wind direction using both of a dust sensor and an odor sensor.SOLUTION: An air cleaner comprises: an odor sensor (43) detecting odor components in an object space (S); a dust sensor (44) detecting dust components in the object space (S); and a controller (C) controlling a wind direction adjusting plate (64) so as to switch between an odor side wind direction corresponding to the removal of the odor components and a dust side wind direction corresponding to the removal of the dust. The controller (C) controls the wind direction adjusting plate (64) so that the wind direction is changed to the dust side wind direction when the odor components are detected by the odor sensor (43) and the dust is detected by the dust sensor (44).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an air purifier. [Background technology]

[0002] Air purifiers that purify the air in a target space are known. The air purifier disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a casing with an inlet and an outlet, an ion generator as a purifying unit, and a dust sensor that detects dust. The air purifier adjusts the angle of the louvers and changes the airflow direction based on the detection signal from the dust sensor. This creates a circulating flow that corresponds to the particle size of the dust. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-95767 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In an air purifier, it is conceivable to provide an odor sensor that detects odor components in a target space in addition to a dust sensor. Patent Document 1 does not disclose how to adjust the airflow direction in a configuration that has a dust sensor and an odor sensor.

[0005] The objective of this disclosure is to create wind direction control using both dust sensors and odor sensors. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The air purifier of the first aspect includes a casing (11) having an inlet (15) and an outlet (12), purifying sections (21-28) arranged in an air passage (P) between the inlet (15) and the outlet (12) and purifying the air in a target space (S), an airflow direction adjusting plate (64) adjusting the direction of airflow from the inlet (15) or the outlet (12), an odor sensor (43) detecting odor components in the target space (S), a dust sensor (44) detecting dust in the target space (S), and a control device (C) controlling the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) to switch between an odor-side airflow direction corresponding to removal of odor components and a dust-side airflow direction corresponding to removal of dust when the odor sensor (43) detects odor components and the dust sensor (44) detect dust. The control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the dust-side airflow direction when the odor sensor (43) detects odor components and the dust sensor (44) detect dust.

[0007] In the first mode, the airflow direction of the inlet (15) or the outlet (12) is switched between an odor-side airflow direction and a dust-side airflow direction. The odor-side airflow direction is an airflow direction that corresponds to the removal of odor components, and the dust-side airflow direction is an airflow direction that corresponds to the removal of dust. When the odor sensor (43) detects odor components in the target space (S) and the dust sensor (44) detects dust in the target space (S), the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) to change the dust-side airflow direction to correspond to the removal of dust.

[0008] Dust has larger particle diameters than odorous components and settles through the air faster, so it is easy for it to fall to the floor of the target space (S). Once the dust has fallen to the floor, it becomes difficult to capture it using airflow. In contrast, airflow in the dust-side direction can quickly capture dust in the air. Odorous components tend to remain in the air, so they can be captured over a long period of time.

[0009] In the second aspect, in the first aspect, when the level of the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is the same as the level of the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction is toward the dust side.

[0010] In the second mode, when the amount of odor components in the target space (S) is at the same level as the amount of dust, an airflow in the dust-side direction is formed, which allows the dust to be captured by the airflow in the dust-side direction before it falls to the floor.

[0011] In a third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction is toward the dust side when the odor sensor (43) detects an odor component and the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than a predetermined first value.

[0012] In the third mode, when the amount of dust in the target space (S) is at a relatively high level, an airflow in the dust-side wind direction is formed even if odorous components are present in the target space (S). This is because if the amount of dust is high, there is a high risk that the dust will fall onto the floor.

[0013] In a fourth aspect of the third aspect, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction faces the dust side when the level of the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the first value and the level of the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is greater than the level of the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44).

[0014] In the fourth mode, when the amount of dust in the target space (S) is at a relatively high level, an airflow with a dust-side wind direction is formed even if the amount of odor components in the target space (S) is large compared to the amount of dust. This is because if the amount of dust is large, there is a high risk that the dust will fall onto the floor.

[0015] In a fifth aspect, in the third or fourth aspect, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction is toward the odor side when the level of the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is equal to or less than a first value and the level of the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is greater than a predetermined second value.

[0016] In the fifth mode, when the amount of dust in the target space (S) is relatively low and the amount of odor components is relatively high, an odor-side airflow is formed. If the amount of dust is relatively low, there is little risk that the dust will fall to the floor. Therefore, in this case, the odor components can be quickly captured by the odor-side airflow.

[0017] In a sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the dust sensor (44) is configured to detect a first dust particle and a second dust particle having a particle size larger than that of the first dust particle. The dust-side airflow direction includes a first airflow direction corresponding to the first dust particle and a second airflow direction corresponding to the second dust particle. When the amount of the first dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is the same as the amount of the second dust detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the second airflow direction.

[0018] In the sixth aspect, if the amount of the first dust in the target space (S) is the same as the amount of the second dust, which has a larger particle size than the first dust, an airflow in the second wind direction is formed because the second dust has a larger particle size and therefore a higher risk of the dust falling to the floor.

[0019] In a seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, when the degree of the first dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the degree of the second dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the first airflow direction.

[0020] In the seventh aspect, when the degree of the first amount of dust in the target space (S) is greater than the degree of the second amount of dust, an airflow in the first wind direction is formed.

[0021] In an eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the control device (C) executes a first operation of swinging the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) when the degree of the first dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the degree of the second dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44). The first airflow direction includes an airflow direction that changes within a predetermined angle range including the second airflow direction in accordance with the swinging operation of the airflow direction adjusting plate (64).

[0022] In the eighth aspect, the airflow direction adjusting flap (64) swings within a predetermined angle range that includes the second airflow direction. The first dust particles have a smaller particle size than the second dust particles and tend to remain in the air. Therefore, by swinging the airflow direction adjusting flap (64), the airflow is diffused, making it easier to capture the first dust particles remaining in the air.

[0023] In a ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, when the degree of the first dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the degree of the second dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) to alternately perform a first operation and a second operation that maintains the airflow direction in a second airflow direction.

[0024] In the ninth aspect, the first dust particles remaining in the air are easily collected by diffusing the airflow through the first action of swinging the airflow direction adjusting plate (64). The second action of maintaining the airflow direction in the second airflow direction also prevents the dust particles from falling onto the floor.

[0025] A tenth aspect is any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the dust-side airflow direction is closer to horizontal than the odor-side airflow direction.

[0026] Since dust has a larger particle size than odor components, dust tends to be distributed downward compared to odor components in the target space (S). Therefore, in the tenth aspect, the dust-side airflow direction corresponding to dust removal is set closer to horizontal than the odor-side airflow direction corresponding to odor component removal.

[0027] An eleventh aspect is any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the dust-side airflow direction is a horizontal direction.

[0028] In the eleventh aspect, the horizontal velocity component of the dust-side airflow direction corresponding to dust removal becomes large, which makes it easier for the airflow in the dust-side airflow direction to capture dust before it falls to the floor.

[0029] A twelfth aspect is any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein the odor side wind direction is a vertical direction.

[0030] In the twelfth aspect, the vertical velocity component of the odor-side airflow direction, which corresponds to the removal of odor components, is increased, which makes it easier for the odor components remaining in the air to be captured by the airflow in the odor-side airflow direction.

[0031] In a thirteenth aspect, in any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) is provided at the air outlet (12).

[0032] In the thirteenth aspect, the angle of the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) is adjusted by the airflow direction adjusting plate (64).

[0033] A fourteenth aspect is any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, further comprising a humidifying section (50) disposed in the air passage (P) for humidifying the air.

[0034] In the fourteenth aspect, the air in the target space (S) can be humidified by the humidifying section (50).

[0035] In a fifteenth aspect, in the fourteenth aspect, when both a first condition that the odor sensor (43) does not detect any odor components or the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is the lowest, and a second condition that the dust sensor (44) does not detect any dust or the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is the lowest, are satisfied, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes a third airflow direction corresponding to humidification by the humidifier section (50).

[0036] In the fifteenth aspect, when the cleanliness of the target space (S) is high, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) to direct the airflow in a third direction corresponding to humidification by the humidifier (50). As a result, the humidification capacity of the target space (S) can be improved.

[0037] In a sixteenth aspect, in any one of the first to fifteenth aspects, when both a first condition that the odor sensor (43) does not detect any odor components or the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is the lowest and a second condition that the dust sensor (44) does not detect any dust or the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is the lowest are satisfied, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the airflow direction set by the user.

[0038] In the sixteenth aspect, when the target space (S) has a high degree of cleanliness, an airflow can be formed in the target space (S) in the wind direction desired by the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0039] [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 interior of the air purifier as viewed from the front. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the inside of the air purifier as viewed from the right side. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the airflow direction adjusting mechanism when the flap is in the closed state. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the airflow direction adjustment mechanism when the flap is at the first angle. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the airflow direction adjustment mechanism when the flap is at the second angle. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the main components of the air purifier. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining the airflow in the first airflow mode in an indoor space, where thick arrows indicate the airflow. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the airflow in the second airflow mode in an indoor space, where thick arrows indicate the airflow. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining the airflow in the third airflow mode in an indoor space, where thick arrows indicate the airflow. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the wind direction control. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a table for explaining the logic for determining the airflow mode based on the level of the amount of odor components and the level of the amount of first dust. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a table for explaining the logic for determining the airflow mode based on the level of the amount of odor components and the level of the amount of second dust. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an example of a pattern for determining the airflow mode. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the cleaning control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] 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.

[0041] (1) Overall configuration of the air purifier The overall configuration of the air purifier (10) will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. 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.

[0042] The air purifier (10) of this embodiment purifies the air in an indoor space (S), which is a target space. In addition, the air purifier (10) humidifies the air in the indoor space (S). The air purifier (10) has a casing (11). The air purifier (10) has, inside the casing (11), an air purification unit (20) that purifies the air and a humidification unit (50) that humidifies the purified air.

[0043] (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).

[0044] 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 (64) are provided in the air outlet (12). The flaps (64) are plate-shaped and extend from the left to the right ends of the air outlet (12). The flaps (64) open and close the air outlet (12) and adjust the direction of the air blown out.

[0045] 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).

[0046] A first suction port (15A) is formed in the right side plate (11e). The first suction port (15A) is rectangular and is formed in the lower part of the right side plate (11e). An openable / closable lid (17) is provided in the upper part of the right side plate (11e). The openable / closable lid (17) opens and closes an access opening (18) for the tank (52) of the humidification unit (50). The openable / closable lid (17) is detachable from the casing (11). A drawer opening (17a) is formed in the upper part of the openable / closable lid (17). A user puts their hand in the drawer opening (17a) and removes the openable / closable lid (17). This opens the access opening (18). The user can remove the tank (52) from the casing (11) through the access opening (18).

[0047] The left side plate (11f) is formed with a second suction port (15B). The second suction port (15B) is rectangular and is formed in the lower part of the left side plate (11f).

[0048] A third suction port (15C) is formed at the lower end of the front plate (11c). The third suction port (15C) extends horizontally across both the left and right ends of the casing (11). Hereinafter, the first suction port (15A), the second suction port (15B), and the third suction port (15C) may be referred to as suction ports (15) unless there is a particular need to distinguish between them.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 2, an air passage (P) is formed inside the casing (11). The first air inlet (15A), the second air inlet (15B), and the third air inlet (15C) form an inlet end of the air passage (P). The air outlet (12) forms an outlet end of the air passage (P).

[0050] (1-2) Air purifier unit The air purification unit (20) is located at the bottom of the air passage (P). The air purification unit (20) purifies the air drawn in through the first air inlet (15A), the second air inlet (15B), and the third air inlet (15C). The air purification unit (20) includes, in order from the upstream side of the air passage (P), prefilters (21, 22), HEPA filters (23, 24), deodorizing filters (25, 26), and a fan unit (30). In addition, the air purification unit (20) includes discharge units (27, 28).

[0051] The pre-filters (21, 22), the HEPA filters (23, 24), the deodorizing filters (25, 26), and the discharge units (27, 28) are an example of a purifying unit that purifies the air in the target space (S).

[0052] (1-2-1) Pre-filter 2, the casing (11) is provided with two prefilters, a first prefilter (21) and a second prefilter (22). The first prefilter (21) is disposed in the first suction port (15A), and the second prefilter (22) is disposed in the second suction port (15B). The first prefilter (21) and the second prefilter (22) capture relatively large dust particles in the air.

[0053] (1-2-2) HEPA filter The casing (11) is provided with two HEPA filters: a first HEPA filter (23) (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) and a second HEPA filter (24). The first HEPA filter (23) is disposed between the first prefilter (21) and the first deodorizing filter (25). The second HEPA filter (24) is disposed between the second prefilter (22) and the second deodorizing filter (26). The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) are formed in a plate shape with their thickness direction corresponding to the horizontal direction. The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) have an electrostatic function of capturing particles by electrostatic force. An antibacterial agent may be added to the first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24). The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) may have a layered structure in which two or more filter materials are layered in the air passage direction.

[0054] (1-2-3) Deodorizing filter The casing (11) is provided with two deodorizing filters, a first deodorizing filter (25) and a second deodorizing filter (26). The first deodorizing filter (25) is disposed between the first HEPA filter (23) and the fan unit (30). The second deodorizing filter (26) is disposed between the second HEPA filter (24) and the fan unit (30). The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) are formed in the shape of a plate whose thickness direction corresponds to the horizontal direction. The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) are adsorbing parts that adsorb harmful substances and odorous substances in the air. The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) have a base material through which air can pass and an adsorbent material such as activated carbon supported on the base material.

[0055] (1-2-4) Fan unit The fan unit (30) is disposed at the bottom of the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) transports air through the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) is a unit having a centrifugal fan, specifically a sirocco fan. The fan unit (30) is a double-suction type in which suction sections are formed at both ends of the axial direction of its drive shaft (the rotation shaft of the impeller). The blow-out section of the fan unit (30) faces upward. The fan unit (30) has a fan motor (31) that drives the impeller. The fan motor (31) is accommodated in a housing. When the fan unit (30) is operated, air from the indoor space (S) is drawn into the air passage (P) through the first suction port (15A), the second suction port (15B), and the third suction port (15C). The air flowing through the air passage (P) is blown out into a target space through the blow-out port (12).

[0056] (1-2-5) Discharge unit The casing (11) is provided with two discharge units, a first discharge unit (27) and a second discharge unit (28). The first discharge unit (27) is disposed above the first HEPA filter (23) and the first deodorizing filter (25). The second discharge unit (28) is disposed above the second HEPA filter (24) and the second deodorizing filter (26). The discharge unit (28) is disposed near the left side plate (11f) in the air passage (P).

[0057] The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate active species for oxidatively decomposing odorous components in the air as they discharge. The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate discharge between the tip of a linear discharge electrode and the flat surface of a plate-shaped counter electrode. The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate streamer discharge, which forms a substantially conical discharge region from the tip of the discharge electrode toward the counter electrode.

[0058] The first discharge unit (27) is disposed in the first discharge path (32), and the second discharge unit (28) is disposed in the second discharge path (33). The first discharge path (32) is a path for returning a portion of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) together with the active species generated by the first discharge unit (27) to the upstream side of the first HEPA filter (23). The second discharge path (33) is a path for returning a portion of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) together with the active species generated by the second discharge unit (28) to the upstream side of the second HEPA filter (24).

[0059] (1-3) Humidification unit The humidifying unit (50) is disposed between the air outlet of the fan unit (30) and the air outlet (12) of the casing (11). The humidifying unit (50) is disposed in a humidifying space (51) located in the upper part of the air passage (P). The humidifying unit (50) adds water to the air flowing through the air passage (P). As shown in FIG. 3, the humidifying unit (50) includes a tank (52), a water tray (53), and a humidifying rotor (54).

[0060] (1-3-1) Tank The tank (52) is a container for storing water for humidification. The tank (52) appropriately supplies the water therein to the water tray (53). The tank (52) is configured to be able to be inserted into and removed from the casing (11) through the access opening (18).

[0061] (1-3-2) Water tray The water tray (53) stores the water supplied from the tank (52). The water tray (53) serves as a water storage section for supplying water to the water absorbing member of the humidification rotor (54). The water tray (53) is a container with an open top.

[0062] (1-3-3) Humidification rotor The humidification rotor (54) has a water-absorbing member that absorbs moisture. The humidification rotor (54) imparts water contained in the water-absorbing member to the air in the humidification space (51). The humidification rotor (54) divides the humidification space (51) into a primary space (51a) and a secondary space (51b). The primary space (51a) is formed upstream of the humidification rotor (54). The secondary space (51b) is formed downstream of the humidification rotor (54).

[0063] The humidification rotor (54) is disk-shaped and has a drive shaft (54a) at its center. The drive shaft (54a) extends toward both the primary space (51a) and the secondary space (51b). The drive shaft (54a) is rotatably supported by two shaft supports (53a) provided in the water tray (53). The humidification rotor (54) is rotated about the drive shaft (54a) by a drive mechanism (55) (not shown). The drive mechanism (55) is, for example, a motor.

[0064] (1-4) Damper The air purifier (10) has a first damper (41) and a second damper (42). The first damper (41) is arranged in the air passage (P) between the fan unit (30) and the secondary space (51b). The second damper (42) is arranged in the air passage (P) between the primary space (51a) and the air outlet (12). The first damper (41) and the second damper (42) open and close in conjunction with each other. Specifically, when the first damper (41) is closed, the second damper (42) is also closed, and when the first damper (41) is open, the second damper (42) is also open.

[0065] (1-5) Odor sensor The air purifier (10) has an odor sensor (43). As shown in Fig. 2, the odor sensor (43) is disposed near the first air inlet (15A). The odor sensor (43) is disposed, for example, in the space downstream of the first prefilter (21) and above the first HEPA filter (23).

[0066] The odor sensor (43) detects odor components in the air in the target space (S). The odor components include, for example, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), nitrogen compounds, sulfur-based compounds, lower fatty acids, and smoke.

[0067] The odor sensor (43) is a so-called odor sensor. The odor sensor (43) is a semiconductor-type sensor that detects odor components based on changes in the resistance value of a semiconductor. The odor sensor (43) may be a quartz oscillator-type sensor that detects odor components based on the resonance frequency of an oscillator. The odor sensor (43) is configured to detect the level of the amount of odor components. The odor sensor (43) detects odor intensity as the level of the amount of odor components. The odor sensor (43) is used to detect multiple levels of odor intensity. The multiple levels are six levels including 0. The odor sensor (43) may also detect the odor concentration or substance concentration of the odor components as the level of the amount of odor components.

[0068] (1-6) Dust sensor The air purifier (10) has a dust sensor (44). As shown in Fig. 2, the dust sensor (44) is disposed near the second inlet (15B). The dust sensor (44) is disposed, for example, in the space downstream of the second prefilter (22) and above the second HEPA filter (24).

[0069] The dust sensor (44) detects dust in the air in the indoor space (S). Here, dust refers to all particles flying in the air. Dust includes droplets, PM2.5, pollen, and house dust. The particle size of dust is larger than the particle size of odor components (odor molecules).

[0070] The dust sensor (44) is an infrared sensor that has a light-emitting element that irradiates infrared rays into the air and a light-receiving element that receives the light, and detects dust based on an output signal from the light-receiving element. The dust sensor (44) may be, for example, a laser sensor that detects dust by irradiating a laser. The dust sensor (44) is configured to detect the level of dust amount. The dust sensor (44) detects the dust concentration in the air as the level of dust amount. The dust sensor (44) is used to detect a plurality of levels of concentration. The plurality of levels is six, including zero. In other words, the number of levels of the level of odor component amount detected by the odor sensor (43) and the number of levels of dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) are the same.

[0071] The dust sensor (44) of this embodiment detects two types of dust with different particle sizes. Specifically, the dust sensor (44) detects a first type of dust and a second type of dust with a larger particle size than the first type of dust. The particle size of the first type of dust ranges from 1 μm to 2.5 μm. The first type of dust includes PM2.5 and airborne droplets. The particle size of the second type of dust is 2.5 μm or more. The second type of dust includes pollen and house dust. The dust sensor (44) detects the concentrations of the first type of dust and the second type of dust separately based on signals with different waveforms corresponding to the particle sizes of the dust. The dust sensor (44) of this embodiment detects the concentrations of the first type of dust and the second type of dust using a single unit. However, the dust sensor (44) may have a first sensor unit that detects the concentration of the first type of dust and a second sensor unit that detects the concentration of the second type of dust, and these sensor units may be configured as separate units.

[0072] (1-7) Humidity sensor The air purifier (10) has a humidity sensor (45). As shown in Fig. 2, the humidity sensor (45) is located, for example, near the first air inlet (15A). The humidity sensor (45) is located, for example, in the space downstream of the first prefilter (21) and above the first HEPA filter (23). The humidity sensor (45) detects the humidity of the air in the room space (S), specifically, the relative humidity. The humidity sensor (45) may be located near the second air inlet (15B).

[0073] (2) Wind direction adjustment mechanism As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the air purifier (10) has an airflow direction adjustment mechanism (60). The air purifier (10) of this embodiment has a first airflow direction adjustment part (61A) and a second airflow direction adjustment part (61B). The first airflow direction adjustment part (61A) and the second airflow direction adjustment part (61B) are provided at the air outlet (12). The first airflow direction adjustment part (61A) is located near the front side of the casing (11), and the second airflow direction adjustment part (61B) is located near the rear side of the casing (11).

[0074] The first airflow direction adjustment unit (61A) has a first flap motor (62A), a first connecting part (63A) rotationally driven by the first flap motor (62A), and a first flap (64A) to which the first connecting part (63A) is fixed. The second airflow direction adjustment unit (61B) has a second flap motor (62B), a second connecting part (63B) rotationally driven by the second flap motor (62B), and a second flap (64B) to which the second connecting part (63B) is fixed. Hereinafter, unless there is a need to particularly distinguish between them, the first airflow direction adjustment unit (61A) and the second airflow direction adjustment unit (61B) may be referred to as airflow direction adjustment units (61), the first flap motor (62A) and the second flap motor (62B) may be referred to as flap motors (62), the first connecting unit (63A) and the second connecting unit (63B) may be referred to as connecting units (63), and the first flap (64A) and the second flap (64B) may be referred to as flaps (64). The number of airflow direction adjustment units (61) may be one or three or more.

[0075] The flap motor (62) is supported inside the casing (11) via a stay (not shown). The flap motor (62) is, for example, a stepping motor. The axial direction of the rotation shaft of the flap motor (62) corresponds to the horizontal direction. The flap motor (62) is connected to the back surface of the flap (64) via a connecting portion (63).

[0076] The flap (64) is an airflow direction adjusting plate. The flap (64) rotates vertically when driven by the flap motor (62). The flap (64) is a so-called horizontal blade that extends horizontally (in this example, left-right). The longitudinal direction of the flap (64) corresponds to the left-right direction, and the width direction of the flap (64) corresponds to the front-rear direction. The vertical angle of the flap (64) is adjustable. As a result, the vertical angle of the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) is adjusted.

[0077] The flap (64) switches between a state in which the air outlet (12) is closed and a state in which the air outlet (12) is opened. As shown in FIG. 4, when the flap (64) closes the air outlet (12), the flap (64) is in a horizontal position. When the flap (64) opens the air outlet (12), the angle of the flap (64) is adjusted within a predetermined angle range. The angle range is from a first angle (θ1), which is an upper limit angle, to a lower limit angle (θu). Note that the "angle" of the flap (64) and the air direction referred to below refers to the angle (counterclockwise angle in FIG. 5) directed upward from the horizontal plane (H) when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the flap (64). The angle of the flap (64) is the angle between the direction in which the end of the flap (64) in the blowing direction points (the direction in which line segment L in FIGS. 5 and 6 extends) and the horizontal plane (line segment H in FIGS. 5 and 6) when viewed in the axial direction of the rotation shaft of the flap (64). In essence, the angle of the airflow direction at the air outlet (12) is equal to the angle of the flap (64).

[0078] (3) Operation panel The operation panel (14) shown in FIGS. 1 and 7 is an operation unit for the user to input various settings. The user can select between a cleaning operation and a humidified cleaning operation by operating the operation panel (14). The cleaning operation is an operation in which the air is cleaned without being humidified. The humidified cleaning operation is an operation in which the air is humidified and cleaned at the same time.

[0079] The user can select between a manual airflow direction mode and an automatic airflow direction mode by operating the operation panel (14). In the manual airflow direction mode, the user can set a desired airflow direction from the air outlet (12). Specifically, the user can set the angle of the flap (64) to a desired angle between the first angle (θ1) and the lower limit angle θ(U). In the automatic airflow direction mode, the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) is automatically adjusted based on detection signals from the odor sensor (43) and the dust sensor (44).

[0080] The user can set the set humidity by operating the operation panel 14. The set humidity is a target humidity when the air purifier is operating to humidify the room space (S).

[0081] (4) Control device As shown in Fig. 7, the air purifier (10) includes a control device (C). The control device (C) has a microcomputer and a memory device that stores software for operating the microcomputer.

[0082] The control device (C) controls the discharge units (27, 28), the fan unit (30), the humidification unit (50), the first damper (41), and the second damper (42). Specifically, the control device (C) controls the discharge output of the discharge units (27, 28), the rotation speed of the fan motor (31) (i.e., the air volume of the fan unit (30)), the open / closed state of the first damper (41), the open / closed state of the second damper (42), and the rotation and stop of the humidification rotor (54).

[0083] The control device (C) receives the detection signals from the odor sensor (43), the dust sensor (44), and the humidity sensor (45). The control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjustment mechanism (60). Specifically, the control device (C) controls the flap motor (62) to adjust the angle of the flap (64).

[0084] (5) Driving behavior The operation of the air purifier (10) will be described. The air purifier (10) performs a cleaning operation and a humidifying cleaning operation. The cleaning operation is an operation in which the air in the target space (S) is purified. In the cleaning operation, the humidifying function is stopped. The humidifying cleaning operation is an operation in which the air in the target space (S) is simultaneously purified and humidified.

[0085] (5-1) Cleaning operation In the cleaning operation, the fan unit (30) and the discharge units (27, 28) are driven. In principle, the humidification rotor (54) is stopped. The first damper (41) and the second damper (42) are open. Air from the indoor space (S) is drawn into the air passage (P) through the first suction port (15A), the second suction port (15B), and the third suction port (15C). The air drawn through the second suction port (15B) and the third suction port (15C) passes through each of the prefilters (21, 22). The prefilters (21, 22) capture relatively large dust particles in the air. Upstream of each of the prefilters (21, 22), odorous components in the air are oxidized and decomposed by active species released from the discharge units (27, 28).

[0086] The air that has passed through the prefilters (21, 22) passes sequentially through the HEPA filters (23, 24) and the deodorizing filters (25, 26).

[0087] A part of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows through the primary space (51a) and the other part flows through the secondary space (51b). The air in the primary space (51a) and the air in the secondary space (51b) flow upward along the side surfaces of the humidification rotor (54) and are blown out through the air outlet (12) into the room space (S).

[0088] (5-2) Humidifying and purifying operation In the humidification cleaning operation, the fan unit (30) and the discharge units (27, 28) are driven. In principle, the humidification rotor (54) is in a rotating state. As shown in FIG. 3, the first damper (41) and the second damper (42) are in a closed state. In the humidification cleaning operation, the air is cleaned in the same manner as in the cleaning operation described above.

[0089] The entire air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows through the primary space (51a). The air in the primary space (51a) passes through the humidification rotor (54) in the axial direction. The humidification rotor (54) imparts moisture to the air from a water-absorbing member. The air humidified by the humidification rotor (54) flows into the secondary space (51b) and is blown out through the outlet (12) into the room space (S).

[0090] (6) Wind direction control The airflow direction control of the air purifier (10) will now be described.

[0091] (6-1) Airflow mode The control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjustment mechanism (60) to switch between a first airflow mode, a second airflow mode, and a third airflow mode. Each of the airflow modes will now be described.

[0092] (6-1-1) First airflow mode The first airflow mode shown in FIG. 8 is an airflow mode suitable for removing odorous components from the room space (S). In the first airflow mode, the control device (C) sets the flap (64) at a first angle (θ1) (see FIG. 5). This causes the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) to face the odorous side. The first angle (θ1) is, for example, 80°. In the first airflow mode, the control device (C) sets the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) to upward blowing. "Upward blowing" means that the velocity component in the vertically upward direction is the largest in the velocity distribution of the airflow of the blown-out air.

[0093] The odor-side airflow direction is preferably a direction along the vertical direction. Here, "a direction along the vertical direction" means that the odor-side airflow direction is within a range of 45 degrees relative to the vertical plane in the direction of rotation of the flap (64). In other words, in the first airflow mode, the first angle (θ1) is preferably within a range of more than 45 degrees and less than 135 degrees relative to the horizontal plane (H).

[0094] If the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) is set to the odor side, air is blown out upward from the air outlet (12). The particles of odorous component molecules are extremely small and tend to remain in the air in the room space (S). Therefore, the odorous components can be captured by the airflow blown out upward. The air containing the odorous components forms a circulating flow along the floor surface of the room space (S) and is sucked in through the air inlet (15).

[0095] In the first airflow mode, the control device (C) preferably maximizes the airflow rate of the fan unit (30). In the first airflow mode, the control device (C) may set the airflow rate of the fan unit (30) to an airflow rate set by the user.

[0096] As will be described in detail later, when the odor sensor (43) detects an odor component and the dust sensor (44) does not detect the first dust or the second dust, the control device (C) controls the flap (64) to operate in the first airflow mode.

[0097] (6-1-2) Second airflow mode The second airflow mode shown in FIG. 9 is an airflow mode suitable for removing dust particles with relatively large particle diameters (the second dust particles described above) from the indoor space (S). In the second airflow mode, the control device (C) sets the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) to a dust-side airflow direction corresponding to the removal of dust, specifically, a second airflow direction corresponding to the removal of the second dust particles. The control device (C) sets the flap (64) to a second angle (θ2) (see FIG. 6). As a result, the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) becomes the second airflow direction. The angle of the second airflow direction (i.e., the second angle (θ2) of the flap (64) is, for example, 38°). In the second airflow mode, the control device (C) sets the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) to forward blowing.

[0098] The second airflow direction is closer to horizontal than the odor-side airflow direction. In other words, the second angle (θ2) is smaller than the first angle (θ1) of the flap (64).

[0099] The second airflow direction is preferably a direction along the horizontal direction. Here, "a direction along the horizontal direction" means that the second airflow direction is within a range of 45° with respect to the horizontal plane in the direction of rotation of the flap (64). In other words, in the second airflow mode, the second angle (θ2) is preferably within a range of greater than -45° and less than 45° with respect to the horizontal plane (H).

[0100] When the airflow direction of the air outlet (12) is set to the second airflow direction, air is blown out from the air outlet (12) forward. The second dust particles have a relatively large particle size and therefore tend to settle quickly in the target space (S) due to their own weight. Therefore, the airflow blown out forward can capture the second dust before it falls to the floor of the target space (S). The air containing the second dust forms a circulating flow along the floor of the target space (S) and is sucked in through the suction port (15).

[0101] As will be described in detail later, when the odor sensor (43) does not detect an odor component, the dust sensor (44) detects the second dust, and the first dust is not detected, the control device (C) controls the flap (64) to operate in the second airflow mode.

[0102] In the second airflow mode, the control device (C) preferably maximizes the airflow rate of the fan unit (30). In the second airflow mode, the control device (C) may set the airflow rate of the fan unit (30) to an airflow rate set by the user.

[0103] (6-1-3) Third airflow mode The third airflow mode shown in Fig. 10 is an airflow mode suitable for removing dust particles with relatively small particle diameters (the first dust particles described above) from the target space (S). In the third airflow mode, the control device (C) sets the airflow direction of the air outlet (12) to a dust-side airflow direction corresponding to the removal of dust, specifically, a first airflow direction corresponding to the removal of the first dust particles. The control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjustment mechanism (60) so that the flap (64) alternately performs the first operation and the second operation. The execution time of the first operation and the execution time of the second operation are set to, for example, several minutes.

[0104] In the first operation, the control device (C) swings the flap (64) within a predetermined angle range that includes the second wind direction. In other words, the control device (C) swings the flap (64) within a predetermined angle range that includes the second angle (θ2). Specifically, the control device (C) swings the flap (64) within an angle range from the first angle (θ1) to a swing lower limit angle (θu). The swing lower limit angle (θu) is a predetermined angle that is between the second angle (θ2) and the angle of the flap (64) in the closed state and is smaller than the second angle (θ2).

[0105] In the second action, the control device (C) maintains the airflow direction of the air outlet (12) in the second airflow direction. In other words, the control device (C) maintains the flap (64) at the second angle (θ2).

[0106] The first wind direction includes a wind direction that changes within a predetermined angle range including the second wind direction in the first operation in accordance with the swinging movement of the flap (64). The first wind direction includes a second wind direction that is maintained in the second operation.

[0107] The first dust is lighter in weight than the second dust and therefore more likely to remain in the air in the room space (S) than the second dust. In the first operation, the blown air changes direction between upward and forward blowing, and this airflow can capture the remaining first dust. The air containing the first dust forms a circulating flow along the floor surface in the room space (S) and is sucked in through the suction port (15).

[0108] The first dust particles settle more easily than odorous components. In the second operation, the blown air is blown forward, and the airflow of this blown air can capture the first dust particles before they fall to the floor of the indoor space (S). The air containing the first dust particles forms a circulating flow along the floor of the indoor space (S) and is sucked in through the suction port (15).

[0109] In the third airflow mode, the control device (C) preferably maximizes the airflow rate of the fan unit (30). In the third airflow mode, the control device (C) may set the airflow rate of the fan unit (30) to an airflow rate set by the user.

[0110] As will be described in detail later, when the odor sensor (43) does not detect any odor component, and the dust sensor (44) detects the first dust but not the second dust, the control device (C) controls the flap (64) to operate in the third airflow mode.

[0111] (6-2) Control operation of the wind direction adjustment mechanism The control operation of the airflow direction adjustment mechanism (60) will be described in detail below. The following control operation is performed in the cleaning operation and the humidification cleaning operation.

[0112] 11, in step ST11, the control device (C) determines whether or not the user has selected the automatic wind direction mode. If the automatic wind direction mode has not been selected, in other words, if the manual wind direction mode has been selected, the control device (C) executes step ST21.

[0113] In step ST21, the control device (C) switches the airflow direction of the air outlet (12) to the airflow direction set by the user. As a result, when the manual airflow direction mode is selected, the cleaning operation or the humidifying cleaning operation can be performed in the airflow direction desired by the user.

[0114] If the automatic airflow direction mode is selected in step ST11, the odor sensor (43) detects the presence or absence of an odor component in the air of the room space (S) and the odor intensity in step ST12. In step ST13, the dust sensor (44) detects the presence or absence and concentration of a first dust particle in the air of the room space (S). In step ST14, the dust sensor (44) detects the presence or absence and concentration of a second dust particle in the room space (S). The order of steps ST12 to ST14 is merely an example, and these steps may be performed in a different order or simultaneously.

[0115] In step ST15, the control device (C) determines the airflow mode of the airflow direction adjustment mechanism (60) based on the detection signals of the odor sensor (43) and the dust sensor (44).

[0116] If the result of the determination in step ST15 is that condition A is met (YES in step ST16), the control device (C) executes the first airflow mode in step ST22. If condition B is met (YES in step ST17), the control device (C) executes the second airflow mode in step ST23. If condition C is met (YES in step ST18), the control device (C) executes the third airflow mode in step ST24. If none of conditions A, B, or C is met (NO in step ST18), in other words, if condition D is met, the control device (C) executes cleaning control in step ST30, the details of which will be described later.

[0117] (6-3) Decision logic The logic for determining the airflow mode in step ST15 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0118] The odor intensity shown in Figures 12 and 13 indicates the level of the amount of odor components based on the detection signal of the odor sensor (43). When the odor intensity is 0, there is no odor, and as the odor intensity increases, the degree to which the subject senses the odor increases. The control device (C) specifies the odor intensity of the air in the room space (S) on a six-level scale, including 0, based on the detection signal of the odor sensor (43). Hereinafter, the level of the amount of odor components is also referred to as the odor level.

[0119] The first dust concentration shown in Fig. 12 indicates the level of the first dust amount based on the detection signal of the dust sensor (44). The second dust concentration shown in Fig. 13 indicates the level of the second dust amount based on the detection signal of the dust sensor (44). The control device (C) identifies the first dust concentration and the second dust concentration in the target space (S) on a six-level scale including 0 based on the detection signal of the dust sensor (44). Hereinafter, the level of the first dust amount will also be referred to as the first dust level, and the level of the second dust amount will also be referred to as the second dust level.

[0120] Fig. 12 shows the logic for determining which airflow mode is prioritized when the odor level is compared with the first dust level. Fig. 13 shows the logic for determining which airflow mode is prioritized when the odor level is compared with the second dust level. The control device (C) does not determine the airflow mode according to the tables in Figs. 12 and 13.

[0121] The control device (C) has data for determining which airflow mode to select according to all combinations of odor level, first dust level, and second dust level. The control device (C) determines the airflow mode based on this data. Figure 14 is a table showing some of this data. Figure 14 shows an example of a combination of odor level, first dust level, and second dust level.

[0122] (6-3-1) Condition A Condition A is a condition for determining the first airflow mode. Condition A is met when the first dust level is 0, the second dust level is 0, and the odor level is 1 or higher. In other words, when the dust sensor (44) does not detect the first dust or the second dust, and the odor sensor (43) detects an odor component, the control device (C) determines to execute the first airflow mode. For example, as shown in pattern p8 in FIG. 14, when the first dust level is 0, the second dust level is 0, and the odor level is 2, condition A is met, and therefore the control device (C) determines to execute the first airflow mode.

[0123] In this way, when odorous components are present in the indoor space (S) and the first dust and the second dust are not present, by controlling the airflow in the first airflow mode, the odorous components in the indoor space (S) can be efficiently removed as described above.

[0124] Condition A is met when the first dust level is 2 or less, the second dust level is a predetermined first value (= 2) or less, and the odor level is greater than a predetermined second value (= 2). For example, as shown in pattern p7 in Fig. 14, when the first dust level is 2, the second dust level is 1, and the odor level is 4, the control device (C) determines to execute the first airflow mode.

[0125] In this way, when the first dust level and the second dust level are relatively low and the odor level is relatively high, by controlling the airflow in the first airflow mode, odor components in the target space (S) can be efficiently removed as described above.

[0126] (6-3-2) Condition B Condition B is a condition for determining the second airflow mode. Condition B is met when the odor level is 0, the first dust level is 0, and the second dust level is 1 or greater. In other words, when the odor sensor (43) does not detect an odor component, and the dust sensor (44) does not detect the first dust but detects the second dust, the control device (C) determines to execute the second airflow mode. For example, as shown in pattern p9 in FIG. 14, when the first dust level is 0, the second dust level is 2, and the odor level is 0, the control device (C) determines to execute the second airflow mode.

[0127] In this way, when only the second type of dust exists in the indoor space (S), the second type of dust is quickly captured by controlling the airflow in the second airflow mode.

[0128] Condition B includes a condition that the second dust level is greater than a predetermined first value (=2). Specifically, when the second dust level is greater than the first value (=2) and the second dust level is greater than the first dust level, condition B is met, and the control device (C) determines to execute the second airflow mode. In this case, condition B is met when the odor level is greater than the second dust level, or more specifically, regardless of the value of the odor level. For example, as shown in pattern p2 in FIG. 14, when the first dust level is 3, the second dust level is 4, and the odor level is 4, the control device (C) determines to execute the second airflow mode.

[0129] In this way, when the second dust level is relatively high, the second dust is quickly collected by controlling the airflow in the second airflow mode, because the second dust quickly falls to the floor due to its own weight.

[0130] Condition B is also met when the second dust level is greater than a predetermined first value (=2) and the second dust level is the same as the first dust level, and the control device (C) determines to execute the second airflow mode. In this case, condition B is also met when the odor level is greater than the second dust level, or more specifically, regardless of the value of the odor level. For example, as shown in pattern p3 in Figure 14, when the first dust level is 3, the second dust level is 3, and the odor level is 4, the control device (C) determines to execute the second airflow mode.

[0131] In this way, when the second dust level is relatively high and is the same as the first dust level, the second dust is quickly collected by controlling the airflow in the second airflow mode because the second dust has a larger particle size than the first dust and therefore is more likely to fall to the floor.

[0132] Condition B is also met when the second dust level is equal to or less than the first value (=2), the odor level is 1 or 2, and the second dust level is greater than the first dust level. For example, as shown in pattern p5 in Figure 14, when the first dust level is 1, the second dust level is 2, and the odor level is 2, the control device (C) determines to execute the second airflow mode.

[0133] In this way, when the second dust level is relatively low, the second dust level is higher than the first dust level, and the odor level is relatively low, the second dust is quickly collected in the second airflow mode.

[0134] Condition B is also met when the second dust level is equal to or less than the first value (=2), the odor level is 1 or 2, and the second dust level is the same as the first dust level. For example, as shown in pattern p6 in Figure 14, when the first dust level is 2, the second dust level is 2, and the odor level is 2, the control device (C) determines to execute the second airflow mode.

[0135] In this way, when the second dust level is relatively low but is the same as the first dust level and the odor level is also relatively low, the second dust is quickly collected in the second airflow mode.

[0136] As described above, for example, as illustrated in patterns p2, p5, and p6, the control device (C) executes the second airflow mode when the second dust level and the odor level are the same.

[0137] (6-3-3) Condition C Condition C is a condition for determining the third airflow mode. Condition C is met when the odor level is 0, the second dust level is 0, and the first level is 1 or greater. In other words, when the odor sensor (43) does not detect an odor component, the dust sensor (44) does not detect the second dust, and detects the first dust, the control device (C) determines to execute the third airflow mode. For example, as shown in pattern p10 in FIG. 14, when the first dust level is 2, the second dust level is 0, and the odor level is 0, the control device (C) determines to execute the third airflow mode.

[0138] In this way, when only the first type of dust exists in the indoor space (S), the first type of dust is quickly captured by controlling the airflow in the third airflow mode.

[0139] Condition C includes a condition that the first dust level is greater than a predetermined value (=2). Specifically, when the first dust level is greater than 2 and greater than the second dust level, condition C is met, and the control device (C) determines to execute the third airflow mode. In this case, condition C is met regardless of the odor level value. For example, as shown in pattern p1 in FIG. 14, when the first dust level is 4, the second dust level is 3, and the odor level is 4, the control device (C) determines to execute the third airflow mode.

[0140] In this way, when the first dust level is relatively high and higher than the second dust level, the first dust is quickly collected by performing airflow control in the third airflow mode.

[0141] Condition C is also met when the first dust level is 2 or less, the odor level is 1 or 2, and the first dust level is greater than the second dust level. For example, as shown in pattern p4 in Figure 14, when the first dust level is 2, the second dust level is 1, and the odor level is 2, the control device (C) determines to execute the third airflow mode.

[0142] In this way, when the first dust level is relatively low, the first dust level is higher than the second dust level, and the odor level is relatively low, the first dust is quickly captured by controlling the airflow in the third airflow mode.

[0143] (6-3-4) Condition D Condition D is a determination condition for transitioning to cleaning control in step ST30. Condition D is met when the first dust level is 0, the second dust level is 0, and the odor level is 0. In other words, when the dust sensor (44) does not detect the first dust or the second dust, and the odor sensor (43) does not detect any odor component, the control device (C) decides to execute cleaning control. For example, as shown in pattern p11 in FIG. 14, when the first dust level is 0, the second dust level is 0, and the odor level is 0, condition D is met, and therefore the control device (C) decides to execute cleaning control.

[0144] (6-4) Cleaning control The cleaning control will be described with reference to Fig. 15. If, in step ST31, the current operation is the humidification cleaning operation, the control device (C) executes step ST32. If, in step ST32, the current humidity detected by the humidity sensor (45) has not reached the set humidity, the control device (C) controls, in step ST33, the flap (64) so ​​that the airflow direction of the air outlet (12) becomes a third airflow direction corresponding to humidification by the humidification unit (50).

[0145] In this embodiment, the third airflow direction is the same as the odor-side airflow direction. In other words, the control device (C) sets the flap (64) to the first angle (θ1) shown in FIG. 5 . As a result, the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) becomes upward. By setting the airflow direction from the air outlet (12) to blow upward, moist air can be delivered to the upper part of the room space (S), thereby promoting humidification of the room space (S). Since the humidification operation is usually performed in winter, by setting the airflow direction to blow upward, cool air on the floor side can be sent to the upper part of the room space (S). As a result, the warm air in the upper part of the room space (S) and the cool air in the lower part of the room space (S) can be mixed, thereby promoting the heating effect in the room.

[0146] The third wind direction may be different from the odor-side wind direction. For example, the third wind direction may be closer to horizontal than the odor-side wind direction.

[0147] If, in step ST31, the current operation is not the humidification cleaning operation but the cleaning operation (NO in step ST31), or if, in step ST32, the current humidity has reached the set humidity, the control device (C) controls, in step ST34, the flap (64) so ​​that the airflow direction of the air outlet (12) becomes the airflow direction set by the user. The airflow direction set by the user here is the most recent set airflow direction stored in the memory of the control device (C). In this way, when there is no request for humidification, the airflow direction of the air purifier (10) is switched to the airflow direction desired by the user.

[0148] (7) Effects of the embodiment (7-1) When the odor sensor (43) detects an odor component and the dust sensor (44) detects dust, the control device (C) controls the flap (64) so ​​that the airflow direction faces the dust. This corresponds to, for example, patterns p1, p2, p3, p4, p5, and p6.

[0149] The first dust and the second dust are more likely to sink in the air and fall to the floor than odor components. When both odor components and dust are present in the indoor space (S), the dust-side airflow direction (first airflow direction or second airflow direction) corresponding to dust removal can be used to remove the dust before it reaches the floor. Since odor components tend to remain in the air, they can be captured over time even with the dust-side airflow direction. Furthermore, when the dust concentration becomes low, the first airflow mode is executed, and the odor components can be removed with the odor-side airflow direction.

[0150] (7-2) More specifically, when the level of the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is the same as the level of the amount of the second dust detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the flap (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the second airflow direction. This corresponds to, for example, the examples of patterns p2, p5, and P6.

[0151] When the amount of the second dust and the amount of the odorous components are the same, the second airflow direction is set to the second direction to quickly collect the second dust, taking into consideration the risk of the second dust falling onto the floor.

[0152] (7-3) When the odor sensor (43) detects an odor component and the amount of the second dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than a predetermined first value (=2), the control device (C) controls the flap (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the second airflow direction. This corresponds to the examples of patterns p2 and p3.

[0153] When the amount of the second dust is large, there is a high risk that the second dust will fall onto the floor. Therefore, by using the second airflow direction, the second dust can be captured before it reaches the floor.

[0154] (7-4) The control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the second airflow direction when the level of the second dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the first value (=2) and the level of the odor component amount detected by the odor sensor (43) is greater than the level of the second dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44). This corresponds to the example of pattern p3.

[0155] When the amount of the second dust is large, there is a high risk that the second dust will fall to the floor. Therefore, even when the amount of odorous components is greater than the amount of the second dust, the second airflow direction is used to quickly capture the second dust.

[0156] (7-5) When the level of the amount of the second dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is equal to or less than the first value (=2) and the level of the amount of the odor component detected by the odor sensor (43) is greater than a predetermined second value (=2), the control device (C) controls the flap (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the odor-side airflow direction. This corresponds to pattern p7.

[0157] When the amount of second dust is small and the amount of odorous components is large, the odorous components can be efficiently removed by directing the airflow toward the odorous side.

[0158] (7-6) When the level of the first dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) is the same as the level of the second dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the flap (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the second airflow direction. This corresponds to the examples of patterns p3 and P6.

[0159] The second dust particles have a larger particle size than the first dust particles and tend to settle, so using the second airflow direction can prevent the second dust particles from falling to the floor. The first dust particles have a smaller particle size than the second dust particles and tend to remain in the air, so they can be collected over a long period of time even with the second airflow direction. Furthermore, when the concentration of the second dust particles decreases, the third airflow mode is activated, so the first dust particles can be efficiently removed with the first airflow direction.

[0160] (7-7) The control device (C) determines the wind direction to be the first wind direction when the level of the first dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the level of the second dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44). The first wind direction includes a wind direction that changes within a predetermined angle range including the second wind direction in accordance with the swinging movement of the flap (64). This corresponds to the examples of patterns p1 and p4.

[0161] This allows the first dust particles, which tend to remain in the air, to be collected by the diffused airflow.

[0162] Strictly speaking, when the degree of the first dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the degree of the second dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the flap (64) to alternately perform a first operation of swinging the flap (64) within a predetermined angle range including the second wind direction and a second operation of maintaining the wind direction in the second wind direction.

[0163] In the second operation, the second airflow direction corresponding to the removal of the second type of dust is maintained, and therefore, the first type of dust and the second type of dust can be prevented from falling onto the floor.

[0164] (7-8) The second airflow direction as the dust-side airflow direction is closer to horizontal than the odor-side airflow direction. Since the second dust tends to be distributed downward in the indoor space (S), the airflow in the second airflow direction can prevent this dust from falling to the floor.

[0165] The second airflow direction as the dust-side airflow direction is a horizontal direction, so that the airflow in the second airflow direction can prevent the dust from falling onto the floor surface.

[0166] Since the odor-side airflow direction is vertical, odor components remaining in the upper part of the indoor space (S) can be efficiently collected by the airflow in the odor-side airflow direction.

[0167] (7-9) The flap (64) is provided at the air outlet (12), and therefore can efficiently capture odorous components and dust by the airflow of the blown air.

[0168] (7-10) When both the first condition that the odor sensor (43) does not detect an odor component and the two conditions that the dust sensor (44) does not detect the first dust and the second dust are satisfied, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes a third airflow direction corresponding to humidification by the humidifier (50). This corresponds to the condition of pattern p11 being satisfied and then step ST33 in FIG. 15 being executed.

[0169] When no odorous components or dust are detected, the third airflow direction, which corresponds to humidification, can be used to efficiently humidify the indoor space (S). Because the third airflow direction is upward, cool air in the indoor space (S) can be delivered to the upper part, promoting the heating effect.

[0170] The first condition may be that the amount of odor component detected by the odor sensor (43) is the lowest (for example, the odor level is 1). The second condition may be that the amount of first dust or the amount of second dust detected by the first dust is the lowest (for example, the first dust level is 1 or the second dust level is 1).

[0171] (7-11) When both the first condition that the odor sensor (43) does not detect an odor component and the second condition that the dust sensor (44) does not detect the first dust type and the second dust type are satisfied, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the airflow direction set by the user. This corresponds to the condition of pattern p11 being satisfied and then step ST34 in FIG. 15 being executed.

[0172] When no odor components or dust are detected, the airflow direction set by the user is used, thereby forming the airflow desired by the user in the indoor space (S).

[0173] The first condition may be that the amount of odor component detected by the odor sensor (43) is the lowest (for example, the odor level is 1). The second condition may be that the amount of first dust or the amount of second dust detected by the first dust is the lowest (for example, the first dust level is 1 or the second dust level is 1).

[0174] (8) Variations The above embodiment may be modified as follows.

[0175] (8-1) Variation 1 The odor-side airflow direction and the dust-side airflow direction may be different from those in the above embodiment.

[0176] For example, if the source of odor is in the interior zone and the source of dust such as pollen is in the perimeter zone near the window, the odor-side airflow direction corresponding to the removal of odor components may be directed toward the interior zone, and the dust-side airflow direction corresponding to the removal of dust may be directed toward the perimeter zone. In this case, the flap (64) serving as the airflow direction adjustment blade may be a vertical blade extending vertically. The control device (C) adjusts the angle of the flap (64) horizontally and also adjusts the horizontal angle of the airflow direction.

[0177] (8-2) Variation 2 The number of stages for the level of the amount of odor components and the number of stages for the level of the amount of dust do not necessarily have to be the same. Specifically, the number of stages for the level of the amount of odor components and the number of stages for the level of the first dust may be different, the number of stages for the level of the amount of odor components and the number of stages for the level of the second dust may be different, or the number of stages for the level of the first dust and the number of stages for the level of the second dust may be different. In this case, the control device (C) determines the difference or similarity between the levels of these indicators and the magnitude relationship by expressing the level of each indicator as a percentage.

[0178] For example, if the odor level has four levels, 0, 1, 2, and 3, then 0 is in the range of 0 to 25%, 1 is in the range of 25 to 50%, 2 is in the range of 50 to 75%, and 4 is in the range of 75 to 100%. If the second dust level has three levels, 0, 1, and 2, then 0 is in the range of 0 to approximately 33%, 1 is in the range of approximately 33 to approximately 66%, and 2 is in the range of approximately 66 to 100%.

[0179] For example, if the odor level is 1 and the second dust level is 2, when both are expressed as percentages, the percentage range of odor level 1 (25 to 50%) is smaller than the percentage range of second dust level 2 (approximately 66 to approximately 100%), so odor level 1 is determined to be smaller than second dust level 2.

[0180] For example, if the odor level is 1 and the second dust level is 1, when both are expressed as percentages, the percentage range of odor level 1 (25 to 50%) and the percentage range of second dust level 1 (approximately 33 to approximately 66%) partially overlap, so odor level 1 is determined to be the same as second dust level 1.

[0181] For example, if the odor level is 3 and the second dust level is 1, and both are expressed as percentages, the percentage range of odor level 3 (75 to 100%) is greater than the percentage range of second dust level 1 (approximately 33 to approximately 66%), and therefore it is determined that odor level 3 is greater than second dust level 1. Based on this logic, the control device (C) determines whether each index is the same or different, and whether it is larger or smaller, as in the above-described embodiment, and determines each airflow mode.

[0182] (8-3) Variation 3 The dust sensor (44) may be a sensor that detects only one type of dust particle size. In this case, the control device (C) replaces the second dust shown in Fig. 13 with one type of dust and determines whether the airflow direction should be the odor-side airflow direction or the dust-side airflow direction based on this logic. In this case, the dust-side airflow direction is preferably the second airflow direction, but may also be the first airflow direction.

[0183] (8-4) Variation 4 The control device (C) may control the flap (64) based on the presence or absence of odor components and dust. Specifically, when the odor sensor (43) detects odor components and the dust sensor (44) detects dust, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the dust-side airflow direction. When the odor sensor (43) detects odor components but the dust sensor (44) does not detect dust, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the odor-side airflow direction. When the odor sensor (43) does not detect odor components but the dust sensor (44) detects dust, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate so that the airflow direction becomes the dust-side airflow direction. In this case, the dust-side airflow direction is preferably the second airflow direction, but may be the first airflow direction.

[0184] (8-5) Variation 5 The flap (64) may be provided at the suction port (15) (e.g., the first suction port (15A) or the second suction port (15B)). In this case, the control device (C) controls the flap (64) at the suction port (15) based on the detection signals of the odor sensor (43) and the dust sensor (44), similarly to the above-described embodiment.

[0185] In the first airflow mode, the control device (C) sets the flap (64) at a first angle (θ1) so that the direction of the air sucked through the suction port (15) faces the odor. By setting the flap (64) at the first angle (θ1), a vertically downward suction airflow can be formed, and odor components remaining in the air can be captured.

[0186] In the second airflow mode, the control device (C) sets the flap (64) at a second angle (θ2) and sets the direction of the air suctioned through the suction port (15) to a second airflow direction as a dust-side airflow direction. By setting the flap (64) at the second angle (θ2), a rearward suction airflow can be formed, and the second dust can be captured before it hits the floor.

[0187] In the third airflow mode, the first operation and the second operation are alternately performed to set the airflow direction of the air suctioned through the suction port (15) to the first airflow direction as the dust-side airflow direction, thereby enabling the first dust particles in the air to be efficiently collected.

[0188] (8-6) Variation 6 In the third airflow mode, the control device (C) may omit the second action and execute only the first action (swing action).

[0189] The control device (C) may swing the flap (64) in the first operation through an angle range from a first angle (θ1) to a second angle (θ2).

[0190] In the third airflow mode, the control device (C) may fix the flap (64) at a predetermined angle between the first angle (θ1) and the second angle (θ2). In this case, the first airflow direction becomes the predetermined angle between the odor-side airflow direction and the second airflow direction.

[0191] (9) Other embodiments The purifying unit may be any device or structure capable of purifying air, for example, an electrostatic precipitator or an ultraviolet irradiation device.

[0192] The discharge unit may be a device that performs other discharges such as corona discharge, glow discharge, and surface discharge.

[0193] The humidifying section may be of another type, such as an ultrasonic type, an adsorption type, a spray type, or an evaporation type.

[0194] The operation unit may be a terminal device such as a smartphone, a personal computer, etc. The terminal device is configured to be able to communicate with the control device (C) via wire or wirelessly.

[0195] The target space does not necessarily have to be an indoor space (S), but may be, for example, a clean room or a space in a factory where cleanliness is required.

[0196] 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.

[0197] 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]

[0198] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for air purifiers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0199] 10. Air Purifier 11 Casing 12 Air outlet 15 Intake port 21~28 Cleaning section 43 Odor Sensor 44 Dust sensor 50 Humidification unit (humidification section) 64 Flap (wind direction adjustment plate) C Control device P Air passage S. Indoor space (target space)

Claims

1. a casing (11) having an inlet (15) and an outlet (12); a purifying section (21-28) disposed in an air passage (P) between the suction port (15) and the air outlet (12) for purifying the air in the target space (S); an airflow direction adjusting plate (64) for adjusting the airflow direction at the air inlet (15) or the air outlet (12); an odor sensor (43) that detects odor components in the target space (S); a dust sensor (44) that detects dust in the target space (S); a control device (C) that controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​as to switch between an odor-side airflow direction corresponding to the removal of the odor components and a dust-side airflow direction corresponding to the removal of the dust, The control device (C) When the odor sensor (43) detects the odor component and the dust sensor (44) detects the dust, the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) is controlled so that the airflow direction is directed toward the dust. Air purifier.

2. When the level of the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is the same as the level of the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the dust side airflow direction. The air purifier according to claim 1 .

3. When the odor sensor (43) detects the odor component and the dust amount detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than a predetermined first value, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the dust side airflow direction. The air purifier according to claim 1 .

4. When the level of the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the first value and the level of the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is greater than the level of the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44), the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the dust-side airflow direction. The air purifier according to claim 3.

5. When the level of the amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is equal to or less than the first value and the level of the amount of odor components detected by the odor sensor (43) is greater than a predetermined second value, the control device (C) controls the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) so ​​that the airflow direction becomes the odor-side airflow direction. The air purifier according to claim 3.

6. the dust sensor (44) is configured to detect first dust particles and second dust particles having a particle size larger than that of the first dust particles; the dust-side wind direction includes a first wind direction corresponding to the first dust and a second wind direction corresponding to the second dust, The control device (C) When the degree of the first amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is the same as the degree of the second amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44), the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) is controlled so that the airflow direction becomes the second airflow direction. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The control device (C) When the degree of the first amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the degree of the second amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44), the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) is controlled so that the airflow direction becomes the first airflow direction. The air purifier according to claim 6.

8. The control device (C) when the degree of the first amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the degree of the second amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44), a first operation is performed to swing the airflow direction adjusting plate (64); The first wind direction includes a wind direction that changes within a predetermined angle range including the second wind direction in accordance with the swinging movement of the wind direction adjusting plate (64). The air purifier according to claim 7.

9. The control device (C) When the degree of the first amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44) is greater than the degree of the second amount of dust detected by the dust sensor (44), the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) is controlled to alternately perform the first operation and a second operation for maintaining the airflow direction in the second airflow direction.

9. The air purifier according to claim 8.

10. The dust-side airflow direction is closer to horizontal than the odor-side airflow direction. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. The dust-side wind direction is horizontal. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

12. The odor side wind direction is vertical. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

13. The airflow direction adjusting plate (64) is provided at the air outlet (12). The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

14. a humidifying section (50) disposed in the air passage (P) for humidifying air; The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

15. The control device (C) When both a first condition that the odor sensor (43) does not detect an odor component or the odor component detected by the odor sensor (43) has the lowest level and a second condition that the dust sensor (44) does not detect dust or the dust sensor (44) has the lowest level of dust are satisfied, the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) is controlled so that the airflow direction becomes a third airflow direction corresponding to humidification by the humidifier section (50).

15. The air purifier of claim 14.

16. The control device (C) When both a first condition that the odor sensor (43) does not detect an odor component or the odor component detected by the odor sensor (43) has the lowest level and a second condition that the dust sensor (44) does not detect dust or the dust sensor (44) has the lowest level of dust are satisfied, the airflow direction adjusting plate (64) is controlled so that the airflow direction becomes the airflow direction set by the user. The air purifier according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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