Airflow generating device, airflow generating method, and airflow generating member

Abstract

Provided are an airflow generating device, an airflow generating method, and an airflow generating member that can alleviate restrictions on the range to which an airflow can be applied. [Solution] An airflow generating device comprising: a vibration member having a predetermined vibration surface, the vibration surface being capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibration surface; and an airflow generating member having a gap extending through the interior from the bottom surface to the tip, the bottom surface being arranged so as to face the vibration surface at a predetermined first distance, wherein the gap is a space formed between two wall surfaces facing each other at a predetermined second distance, and the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear with a width equal to the second distance.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an airflow generating device, an airflow generating method, and an airflow generating member. [Background technology]

[0002] Devices for transporting compressible fluids such as air are known.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a piezoelectric microblower comprising: a diaphragm having a piezoelectric element; a case that fixes the periphery of the diaphragm and forms a blower chamber between the diaphragm and the case; a first opening provided in a wall of the case facing the center of the diaphragm; and a plurality of connecting parts provided on the outer periphery of the case that substantially suppress vibration propagation from the case to the outside, wherein a voltage of a predetermined frequency is applied to the piezoelectric element to drive the diaphragm in a bending mode, thereby discharging a compressible fluid from the first opening. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-050108 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the invention described in Patent Document 1, the shape of the first opening from which the fluid is discharged is a circle with a diameter of about 0.6 mm, and the discharged fluid is a so-called axisymmetric jet, which poses a problem in that the range on which the discharged fluid can hit is greatly limited.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of such problems, and aims to provide an airflow generating device, an airflow generating method, and an airflow generating member that can alleviate the restrictions on the range to which the airflow can be directed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One invention for achieving the above-mentioned object is an airflow generating device comprising: a vibration member having a predetermined vibration surface, the vibration surface being capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibration surface; and an airflow generating member having a gap extending through the interior from the bottom surface to the tip, the bottom surface being arranged so as to face the vibration surface at a predetermined first distance, wherein the gap is a space formed between two wall surfaces facing each other at a predetermined second distance, and the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear with a width equal to the second distance.

[0008] Another invention for achieving the above object is an airflow generating method including the steps of: placing an airflow generating member having a predetermined vibration surface, the vibration surface of which is capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibration surface, on a vibration member such that the bottom surface faces the vibration surface at a predetermined first distance; and vibrating the vibration surface; wherein the gap is a space formed between two wall surfaces that face each other at a predetermined second distance; and the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear with a width equal to the second distance.

[0009] Another invention for achieving the above object is an airflow generating member having a gap that penetrates the interior from the bottom surface to the tip, comprising a main body portion in which the gap is provided, and side portions formed at both ends of the main body portion and closing the gap from both ends of the main body portion, wherein the gap is a space formed between two opposing wall surfaces separated by a predetermined distance, and the shape of the opening on the tip side is linear with a width equal to the distance. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an airflow generating device, an airflow generating method, and an airflow generating member that can alleviate restrictions on the range to which the airflow can be applied. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram for explaining an airflow generating system 1 of a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view for explaining the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an air flow generating member 230 of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a side view illustrating an air flow generating member 230 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating member 230 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 3A to 3C are diagrams for explaining the principle of how an airflow is generated by the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1. FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1. FIG. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1. FIG. [Figure 11] 1 is a diagram for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1. FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a diagram for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1. FIG. [Figure 13] 1 is a diagram for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1. FIG. [Figure 14] 1 is a diagram for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating device 21 of a first modified example. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating device 22 of a second modified example. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating device 23 of a third modified example. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating device 24 of a fourth modified example. [Figure 19]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating device 25 of a fifth modified example. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating device 26 of a sixth modified example. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a perspective view for explaining an airflow generating device 27 of a seventh modified example. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating device 27 of a seventh modified example. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a perspective view for explaining an airflow generating device 28 of a second embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a side view illustrating an air flow generating member 238 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating member 238 according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] ==First Embodiment== <<Airflow Generation System 1>> An airflow generating system 1 of this embodiment will be described. The airflow generating system 1 is a system for generating a flow (airflow) of a compressible fluid such as air by using ultrasonic waves. Note that in this specification, "ultrasound waves" refer to sound waves that are not intended to be heard.

[0013] 1 is a block diagram for explaining an airflow generation system 1. The airflow generation system 1 includes an airflow generation device 2, an oscillator 3, and a control device 4. Each of these will be described below.

[0014] <Airflow generating device 2> The airflow generating device 2 is a device for generating an airflow by using ultrasonic waves.

[0015] Fig. 2 is a perspective view for explaining the airflow generation device 2. Fig. 2 shows a predetermined Cartesian coordinate system consisting of an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other. The Cartesian coordinate system here is a coordinate system fixed to the airflow generation device 2 (details will be described later).

[0016] 1 and 2, the airflow generating device 2 of this embodiment includes a vibration section 210 (omitted in FIG. 2), an ultrasonic horn 220, and an airflow generating member 230. Each of these will be described below.

[0017] [Vibration part 210] The vibration unit 210 is provided to convert an AC voltage from an oscillator 3 (described later) into ultrasonic vibration. The ultrasonic vibration converted by the vibration unit 210 is transmitted to the ultrasonic horn 220.

[0018] The vibration section 210 of this embodiment uses a so-called bolt-clamped Langevin transducer (BLT) as a vibrator (not shown) that converts the AC voltage from the oscillator 3 into ultrasonic vibration.

[0019] The vibration unit 210 may further include a horn for amplifying the ultrasonic vibration of the vibrator. In this case, the ultrasonic vibration amplified by the horn is transmitted to the ultrasonic horn 220.

[0020] [Ultrasonic Horn 220] The ultrasonic horn 220 is a metal tool designed to resonate at a predetermined resonant frequency. As will be described in detail later, the ultrasonic horn 220 generates a high acoustic pressure field in a gap provided in the airflow generating member 230.

[0021] The ultrasonic horn 220 has a predetermined tip surface 220a. In this embodiment, the shape of the tip surface 220a is rectangular. As will be described in detail later, the shape of the tip surface 220a is designed to be equal to the shape of the bottom surface of the airflow generating member 230.

[0022] The tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 can vibrate in a direction perpendicular to the tip surface 220a. In the description of this embodiment, an orthogonal coordinate system is used in which the tip surface 220a is a plane (XY plane) perpendicular to the Z axis. Therefore, the tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 can vibrate in the direction of the Z axis.

[0023] [Airflow generating member 230] The airflow generating member 230 is a member for generating an airflow directed to the outside by a high sound pressure field generated in a gap (described later) provided inside.

[0024] 3 to 5 are diagrams for explaining the airflow generating member 230. These figures show the same Cartesian coordinate system as that shown in Fig. 2. In other words, the Cartesian coordinate system shown in these figures is a coordinate system fixed to the airflow generation device 2 (airflow generating member 230).

[0025] Overview of the airflow generating member 230 First, an overview of the airflow generating member 230 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0026] 3 is a perspective view for explaining an outline of the air flow generating member 230. The air flow generating member 230 has a bottom surface S11. The air flow generating member 230 further has a tip T1 at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S11.

[0027] The surface between the bottom surface S11 and the tip T1 of the airflow generating member 230 is the side surface S12. In this embodiment, the side surface S12 is made up of eight flat surfaces S121 to S128 (some reference numerals are omitted in FIG. 3).

[0028] As will be described in detail later, the side surface S12 has planes S121, S122, S123, and S124 that form a rectangular side peripheral surface, planes S125 and S127 that are trapezoidal, and planes S126 and S128 that are triangular, with planes S125 to S128 forming inclined surfaces that slope toward the tip T1.

[0029] The airflow generating member 230 has a shape that tapers toward the tip T1. In other words, the airflow generating member 230 has a pointed tip T1.

[0030] A gap G1 is provided in the airflow generating member 230. The gap G1 is a space that penetrates the inside of the airflow generating member 230 from the bottom surface S11 to the tip T1.

[0031] The gap G1 is a slit-shaped space. That is, the gap G1 is a space formed between two opposing wall surfaces S13 and S14 with a predetermined distance D2 between them. Therefore, the opening of the gap G1 on the tip T1 side is linear in shape with a width equal to the distance D2. The opening of the gap G1 on the bottom surface S11 side is also linear in shape with a width equal to the distance D2.

[0032] In this embodiment, the gap G1 is a space that is closed on the side surface S12 side. That is, the opening of the gap G1 is provided only on the bottom surface S11 and the tip T1, and not on the side surface S12.

[0033] Metal is used as the material for the airflow generating member 230. In this embodiment, aluminum is used as the material for the airflow generating member 230.

[0034] Details of the airflow generating member 230 Hereinafter, the airflow generating member 230, particularly its shape, will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0035] Fig. 4 is a side view illustrating the airflow generating member 230. In Fig. 4, (a) shows a side view as viewed from the positive direction of the Z axis, (b) shows a side view as viewed from the positive direction of the X axis, and (c) shows a side view as viewed from the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0036] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generating member 230. Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view taken along a plane perpendicular to the Y axis and passing through a main body portion 230a (described later).

[0037] 4 and 5, in the Cartesian coordinate system used in the description of this embodiment, the bottom surface S11 is a plane perpendicular to the Z axis. The bottom surface S11 has a rectangular shape with a longitudinal direction. In the Cartesian coordinate system used in the description of this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the bottom surface S11 coincides with the direction of the Y axis.

[0038] 4, the airflow generating member 230 has a main body portion 230a and side portions 230b and 230c, each of which will be described below.

[0039] The main body portion 230a is a portion where the gap G1 is provided. The main body portion 230a has a width direction, a length direction, and a height direction.

[0040] In the Cartesian coordinate system used in the description of this embodiment, the width direction of the main body 230a coincides with the X-axis direction (FIG. 4(a)). The longitudinal direction of the main body 230a coincides with the Y-axis direction (FIG. 4(b)). The height direction of the main body 230a coincides with the Z-axis direction (FIG. 4(b)).

[0041] The width, length and height of the main body 230a are defined as W1, L1 and H1, respectively (FIG. 4). The optimum values ​​for these dimensions are determined according to the frequency of vibration of the tip end surface 220a.

[0042] In this embodiment, the vibration frequency of the tip end surface 220a is 19 kHz. In this case, W1 is 12 mm, L1 is 60 mm, and H1 is 11.5 mm.

[0043] As can be seen from the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5, the cross-sectional shape of the main body 230a in a plane perpendicular to the Y axis (ZX plane) is tapered toward the tip T1.

[0044] First, the cross-sectional shape of the main body portion 230a will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 5. Of the side surface S12, planes S121 and S123 are adjacent to the bottom surface S11 and are planes perpendicular to the Y axis (i.e., planes perpendicular to the bottom surface S11).

[0045] Of the side surface S12, planes S125 and S127 are planes adjacent to planes S121 and S123, respectively. Planes S125 and S127 are planes parallel to the Y axis, and are inclined from planes S121 and S123 toward tip T1, respectively.

[0046] The planes S125 and S127 are inclined relative to each other. Specifically, in the cross-sectional view of Fig. 5, the angle θ formed by the planes S125 and S127 on the inner side of the air flow generating member 230 is preferably smaller than 180 degrees. The angle θ is more preferably 90 degrees or less. In this embodiment, the angle θ is approximately 85 degrees.

[0047] Here, when one of two planes is "inclined" with respect to the other plane, it means that the two planes are not parallel to each other.

[0048] Next, the gap G1 provided in the main body portion 230a will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 5. In this embodiment, the gap G1 penetrates the inside of the airflow generating member 230 in the direction of the Z axis (i.e., in the direction perpendicular to the bottom surface S11). The gap G1 is translationally symmetric with respect to the direction of the Z axis.

[0049] The cross-sectional shape of the gap G1 in a plane perpendicular to the Y axis (FIG. 5) is uniform along the Y axis.

[0050] The width of the gap G1 in the X-axis direction is equal to the distance D2 between the wall surfaces S13 and S14, which is 0.5 mm in this embodiment.

[0051] The two wall surfaces S13 and S14 are both flat surfaces perpendicular to the X-axis and face each other across a distance D2 in the X-axis direction.

[0052] The width of the gap G1 in the Y-axis direction is equal to the length L1 of the main body 230a in the longitudinal direction (FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b)), and the length L1 is greater than the distance D2.

[0053] 4, the side portions 230b and 230c are portions formed on both ends of the main body portion 230a in the longitudinal direction. The side portions 230b and 230c close the gap G1 from the Y-axis direction.

[0054] Side portion 230b (side portion 230c) has a plane S124 (plane S122) that is adjacent to bottom surface S11 and perpendicular to the Y axis (a plane perpendicular to bottom surface S11), and a plane S128 (plane S126) that is adjacent to plane S124 (plane S122) and inclined toward tip T1.

[0055] The side portions 230b and 230c are optional and do not necessarily have to be formed. That is, the airflow generating member 230 may have only the main body portion 230a. In this case, the airflow generating member 230 is formed from two separate portions. The two portions here are a portion having wall surface S13 and a portion having wall surface S14.

[0056] In this embodiment, the airflow generating member 230 is formed by integrally forming the main body 230a and the side portions 230b, 230c. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the airflow generating member 230 may be formed by joining the main body 230a and the side portions 230b, 230c that are separately formed.

[0057] ·Relationship with ultrasonic horn 220 The following describes the relationship between the airflow generating member 230 and the ultrasonic horn 220. The airflow generating member 230 is disposed so that the bottom surface S11 faces the tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 with a predetermined distance therebetween.

[0058] The airflow generating member 230 and the ultrasonic horn 220 are supported by separate support members (not shown). The airflow generating member 230 and the ultrasonic horn 220 are adjusted by the support members so that their relative positions are in a desired relationship.

[0059] The airflow generating member 230 is disposed so that its bottom surface S11 faces the tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 at a distance D1 in the Z-axis direction (FIGS. 2 and 5). In this embodiment, the distance D1 is 0.1 mm.

[0060] In this embodiment, the bottom surface S11 faces the entire tip surface 220a. That is, the outer shape of the bottom surface S11 of the airflow generating member 230 and the outer shape of the tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 are designed to be identical to each other.

[0061] The bottom surface S11 may be opposed to at least a portion of the tip surface 220a.

[0062] The above has described the airflow generation device 2. The airflow generation device 2 can generate an airflow from the vicinity of the opening on the tip T1 side of the gap G1 toward the outside of the airflow generation member 230 (particularly in the direction of the Z axis) (details will be described later).

[0063] Here, because the gap G1 is slit-shaped, the airflow generated by the airflow generating device 2 is blown out from a linear outlet with some thickness. The airflow blown out from the outlet can reach a linear region and its vicinity on any two-dimensional surface (not limited to the XY plane, but including uneven surfaces). Hereinafter, such an airflow may be referred to as a "linear airflow."

[0064] In this specification, the X axis corresponds to the "third axis," the Y axis corresponds to the "second axis," the Z axis corresponds to the "first axis," the interval D1 corresponds to the "first interval," and the interval D2 corresponds to the "second interval."

[0065] Moreover, ultrasonic horn 220 is an example of a “vibration member.” Furthermore, tip surface 220a of ultrasonic horn 220 corresponds to the “vibration surface” of the vibration member.

[0066] The "vibration member" may be any member whose vibration surface can vibrate in a direction perpendicular to the "vibration surface." The vibration member is not limited to an ultrasonic horn, and may be a piezoelectric material, a magnetostrictive material, or a material to which vibration is transmitted from such a material.

[0067] <Oscillator 3> Oscillator 3 is a device for generating ultrasonic vibrations in ultrasonic horn 220. Specifically, oscillator 3 applies an AC voltage to vibration section 210, thereby causing ultrasonic horn 220 to generate ultrasonic vibrations.

[0068] Furthermore, oscillator 3 controls the frequency of ultrasonic vibration in ultrasonic horn 220. Specifically, oscillator 3 controls the frequency of ultrasonic vibration in the composite of vibrating section 210 and ultrasonic horn 220 so that it becomes a resonance frequency specific to the composite.

[0069] <Control device 4> The control device 4 controls the oscillator 3 by executing a predetermined control program.

[0070] A linear airflow can be generated by the airflow generating system 1 described above. The principle by which such a linear airflow is generated will be described in detail below.

[0071] <<The principle by which airflow is generated>> The following explains the principle by which a linear airflow is generated by the airflow generating system 1 described above. The principle by which so-called "axisymmetric airflow" or so-called "axisymmetric jet" is generated using ultrasound is described in "Aono Kohei (2023). Research on the jumping phenomenon of objects and the jetting phenomenon of fluids in near-field sound fields. Doctoral dissertation, Graduate School of Engineering, Muroran Institute of Technology."

[0072] Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining the principle of airflow generation by the airflow generation system 1, and shows a cross-sectional view similar to Fig. 5. Fig. 6 shows a state in which the ultrasonic horn 220 is vibrated in the airflow generation system 1 described above.

[0073] When ultrasonic horn 220 vibrates, tip surface 220a vibrates in the direction of the Z axis. When tip surface 220a vibrates, air pressure (sound pressure) that periodically fluctuates between positive and negative pressures is generated in the space between tip surface 220a and bottom surface S11.

[0074] As a result, sound pressure enters gap G1 from the opening on the bottom surface S11 side of gap G1. The sound pressure that enters gap G1 from the opening on the bottom surface S11 side travels toward tip T1 (the negative direction of the Z axis).

[0075] Of the sound pressure propagating in the direction toward tip T1 in gap G1, part is released to the outside at the opening of gap G1 on the tip T1 side, and the rest is reflected and propagates in the direction toward bottom surface S11 (positive direction of the Z axis).

[0076] That is, in the gap G1, the sound pressure toward the tip T1 and the sound pressure toward the bottom surface S11 interfere with each other. In the sound pressure distribution (sound pressure field) formed at this time, positive pressures reinforce each other, and negative pressures reinforce each other, resulting in an area showing high sound pressure (high sound pressure field).

[0077] The position where the high sound pressure field occurs in the gap G1 and the peak value of the sound pressure are determined depending on the layout of the gap G1 (spacing D2, the length between the openings at both ends, the shape of the path between the openings at both ends, etc.).

[0078] In high sound pressure fields, nonlinear effects of sound pressure become evident: high sound pressure causes non-periodic unidirectional airflow and pressure.

[0079] When a high sound pressure field occurs in gap G1, the difference between the sound pressure near the opening on the tip T1 side and the sound pressure outside gap G1 becomes large, which generates a force that pushes air out of gap G1 (in the negative direction of the Z axis), creating an airflow that moves out of gap G1, drawing in the air near the opening on the tip T1 side.

[0080] Therefore, it is preferable that the shape of the vicinity of the tip T1 of the airflow generating member 230 is such that it is easy to draw in air near the opening on the tip T1 side, since this increases the volume of the generated airflow.

[0081] Specifically, in the region near the opening on the tip T1 side, the smaller the area occupied by the airflow generating member 230, that is, the larger the area occupied by the space, the more preferable. Therefore, in this embodiment, the airflow generating member 230 has a shape that tapers toward the tip T1.

[0082] Furthermore, the larger the distance D1, the smaller the flow velocity of the generated airflow. However, if the distance D1 is too small, the influence of the inclination between the bottom surface S11 and the tip surface 220a becomes significant, and the flow velocity near the opening on the tip T1 side tends to become non-uniform.

[0083] Furthermore, the greater the amplitude of vibration of the tip end surface 220a, the greater the flow velocity of the generated airflow. However, it is necessary to prevent the tip end surface 220a from coming into contact with the bottom surface S11 due to the vibration of the tip end surface 220a. Taking the above into consideration, it is preferable that the distance D1 be 100 μm or more and 300 μm or less.

[0084] Furthermore, the larger the distance D2, the lower the sound pressure inside the gap G1, and the slower the flow rate of the generated airflow. However, if the distance D2 is too small, the sound pressure incident on the tip surface 220a into the gap G1 decreases, and the sound pressure inside the gap G1 decreases. Considering the above, the distance D2 is preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm.

[0085] <<Airflow generation method>> An airflow generation method using the airflow generation system 1 will be described.

[0086] 7 is a flowchart illustrating the airflow generating method of this embodiment. The airflow generating method includes steps ST10 and ST20. Each step will be described in turn below.

[0087] <Step ST10> In step ST10, the worker places the airflow generating member 230 on the ultrasonic horn 220 so that the bottom surface S11 faces the tip surface 220a of the ultrasonic horn 220 with a predetermined distance D1 between them (the state shown in FIG. 2).

[0088] In this step, the operator may manually adjust the support members that support the ultrasonic horn 220 and the airflow generating member 230 so that the distance between the bottom surface S11 and the tip surface 220a becomes the distance D1. <Step ST20> In step ST20, the airflow generation system 1 vibrates the tip end surface 220a. In this step, the control device 4 (FIG. 1) controls the oscillator 3 to apply an AC voltage to the vibration part 210, thereby generating ultrasonic vibrations in the ultrasonic horn 220.

[0089] When the above process is performed, a linear airflow directed outward is generated from the vicinity of the tip T1 of the airflow generating member 230 (FIG. 6). Details are as described above, and will not be described here.

[0090] <<Application example 1 of airflow generation system 1>> As an application example of the airflow generating system 1, flattening of cosmetic cream will be described.

[0091] The "flattening of cosmetic cream" described below refers to the work carried out in a cosmetics factory between filling the contents of a manufactured cosmetic cream into a designated container and sealing it with a designated lid. Hereinafter, this process may be simply referred to as "flattening."

[0092] Immediately after filling a container with cosmetic cream, the liquid surface is not horizontal due to its viscosity, and tends to become uneven. If there are any protrusions on the liquid surface that extend beyond the edge of the container, the cosmetic cream may adhere to the underside of the lid when the cosmetic cream is sealed with the lid.

[0093] The flattening of the cosmetic cream described below is a process for preventing the cosmetic cream from adhering to the underside of the lid when the cosmetic cream filled in the container is sealed with the lid.

[0094] <Filling of cosmetic cream C> 8 to 11 are diagrams for explaining application examples of the airflow generating system 1, and are diagrams for explaining the filling of cosmetic cream C. In these diagrams, the Cartesian coordinate system used in the above explanation is shown.

[0095] In these figures, (a) shows an object viewed from the Y-axis direction, and (b) shows the same object viewed from the X-axis direction.

[0096] 8 shows the state before a filling device (not shown) fills a predetermined container B with cosmetic cream C through a nozzle N. The container B is cylindrical with a bottom and an open top, and the cosmetic cream C is filled through the opening. The container B is placed on a horizontal surface.

[0097] Figure 9 shows the state immediately after the filling device starts filling cosmetic cream C. The cosmetic cream C inside container B is shown by a dotted line. The shape of the liquid surface inside container B deviates from the horizontal plane, with the liquid surface being higher in areas closer to the nozzle.

[0098] 10 shows the state just before the filling device finishes filling the cosmetic cream C. The shape of the liquid surface near the edge of the opening of the container B deviates from the horizontal plane, and the liquid surface becomes higher as it approaches the nozzle N.

[0099] 11 shows the state immediately after the filling device has finished filling cosmetic cream C. The shape of the liquid surface near the edge of the opening of container B deviates from the horizontal plane, and the part close to nozzle N (approximately the center part) is pointed.

[0100] After the cosmetic cream C is filled into the container B, a predetermined lid (not shown) is attached to the opening of the container B to seal the cosmetic cream C. However, during the allowable time from filling to sealing, the cosmetic cream C is not naturally flattened by gravity and maintains the shape shown in FIG.

[0101] <Flattening of Cosmetic Cream C> 12 to 14 are diagrams for explaining an application example of the airflow generating system 1, and are diagrams for explaining flattening of the cosmetic cream C. FIG.

[0102] These figures show the Cartesian coordinate system used in the above description, which is fixed to the airflow generation device 2 (airflow generating member 230).

[0103] In these figures, a container B filled with cosmetic cream C is placed on a belt conveyor and moves in the positive direction of the X axis.

[0104] Furthermore, an airflow generation device 2 is installed at a position at a predetermined height from the belt conveyor. The airflow generation device 2 is in operation, and a downward airflow is generated from the airflow generation device 2 on the negative direction (also referred to as the "downward direction") of the Z axis (also referred to as "below the airflow generation device 2").

[0105] Container B placed on the belt conveyor passes under airflow generation device 2 in the positive direction of the X-axis. As container B passes under airflow generation device 2, it is subjected to the airflow generated by airflow generation device 2.

[0106] 12 shows the state before the container B passes under the airflow generating device 2. In this state, the liquid surface of the cosmetic cream C maintains the shape shown in FIG. 11 (pointed at approximately the center). As can be seen from FIG. 12(b), the length of the airflow generating member 230 in the longitudinal direction (direction of the Y axis) is greater than the diameter of the container B.

[0107] 13 shows a state in which container B passes under the airflow generating device 2. In this state, the pointed portion of the liquid surface of cosmetic cream C is hit by the airflow and begins to tip in the negative direction of the X-axis. Then, the top of the liquid surface of cosmetic cream C begins to descend.

[0108] 14 shows the state after container B has passed under the airflow generating device 2. In this state, the sharp portion of the liquid surface of the cosmetic cream C is hit by the airflow and falls in the negative direction of the X-axis, almost disappearing. The top of the liquid surface of the cosmetic cream C then drops below the edge of the opening of container B.

[0109] The above steps complete the flattening of the cosmetic cream C. In this state, when the cosmetic cream C is sealed with a predetermined lid, the cosmetic cream will not adhere to the underside of the lid.

[0110] According to the airflow generating device 2 of this embodiment, when the container B passes under the airflow generating device 2 (FIG. 13), the cosmetic cream C filled in the container B receives a linear airflow downward along the Y axis (FIG. 13(b)). Therefore, while the container B passes under the airflow generating device 2, the cosmetic cream C receives the airflow over the entire liquid surface. With this type of airflow generating device 2, the cosmetic cream C can be reliably flattened.

[0111] It should be noted that it is difficult for a conventional airflow generating device to reliably flatten the cosmetic cream C. This will be explained in detail below.

[0112] As described above, the airflow generation device 2 of this embodiment can generate a linear airflow. In other words, the airflow generation device 2 can simultaneously apply airflow to a line and a nearby area on any two-dimensional surface.

[0113] In contrast, in a conventional airflow generating device that generates an axisymmetric airflow, the area on a two-dimensional surface that can be simultaneously hit by the airflow is limited to a local area near one point.

[0114] With such a conventional airflow generating device, it is necessary to identify the sharp points on the liquid surface and then apply the airflow to those points in order to flatten the cosmetic cream C. Furthermore, since the positions of the sharp points on the liquid surface vary, this process is inevitably complicated.

[0115] Even with a conventional airflow generating device, it is possible to flatten the surface of the cosmetic cream C by repeatedly applying the airflow to the entire liquid surface of the cosmetic cream C while changing the position where the airflow is applied. However, such an operation requires a great deal of time and effort.

[0116] According to the airflow generating device 2 of the present embodiment, there is no need to identify the position of any sharp points on the liquid surface of the cosmetic cream C. Furthermore, according to the airflow generating device 2, the airflow can be applied to the entire liquid surface of the cosmetic cream C in a short time, and therefore the surface can be flattened in a short time.

[0117] The flattening by the airflow generating system 1 is not limited to the cosmetic cream C, but can be applied to other cream-like, paste-like or gel-like substances (medicines, foods, etc.).

[0118] <<Application example 2 of airflow generation system 1>> Another application example of the airflow generating system 1 will be described.

[0119] The airflow generating system 1 can be used in a blower or the like used in a clean room, for example, an air gun.

[0120] With an air gun using the airflow generating system 1, an airflow is generated by circulating the air inside the clean room, so there is no need to take in outside air from outside the clean room, and therefore no filter is required.

[0121] Furthermore, in the airflow generating system 1, the airflow generating member 230 does not come into contact with the ultrasonic horn 220. Therefore, no dust is generated due to contact between the two. Furthermore, since no wear occurs due to contact between the two, the airflow generating system 1 has a long life.

[0122] == Variation 1 == A modified example of the airflow generating device 2 of the first embodiment will be described.

[0123] 15 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation device 21 of this modified example. The airflow generation device 21 of this modified example is different from the airflow generation device 2 of the first embodiment (FIG. 5) in the configuration of the airflow generation member 231.

[0124] Specifically, compared to the first embodiment, the airflow generating member 231 has a different cross-sectional shape in a plane (XZ plane) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (direction of the Y axis).

[0125] The following describes the cross-sectional shape of the airflow generating member 231 in a plane perpendicular to the Y-axis direction. The other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, so descriptions will be omitted. The same applies to modified examples 2 to 7 described later.

[0126] The airflow generating member 231 has a tip T2. The airflow generating member 231 is provided with a gap G2, which is a slit-shaped space that is long in the Y-axis direction and penetrates the inside from the bottom surface S21 to the tip T2.

[0127] The tip T2 faces the X-axis direction. That is, the tip T2 faces a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface S21 (the Z-axis direction) (a direction parallel to the bottom surface S21). The airflow generating member 231 tapers toward the tip T2.

[0128] 15, the gap G2 bends at a substantially right angle inside the airflow generating member 231. The gap G2 has a portion on the bottom surface S21 side that is a hole formed in the Z-axis direction from the bottom surface S21, and a portion on the tip end T2 side that is a hole formed in the X-axis direction from the tip end T2. These two portions are perpendicular to each other with respect to their respective surfaces.

[0129] Even if the gap G2 is curved as in this modified example, if it is a gap that connects the opening on the bottom surface S21 side with the opening on the tip end T2 side, it is considered to be a gap that "penetrates" the inside of the airflow generating member 231 from the bottom surface S21 to the tip end T2. The same applies to the following explanation.

[0130] Such an airflow generating member 231 can generate a linear airflow that flows in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the tip end surface 220a vibrates (here, the X-axis direction).

[0131] ==Variation 2== 16 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation device 22 of this modified example. The airflow generation device 22 of this modified example is different from the airflow generation device 2 of the first embodiment (FIG. 5) in the configuration of the airflow generation member 232.

[0132] The air flow generating member 232 has two tips T31, T32. Specifically, the tip T31 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S31 in the Z-axis direction, and the tip T32 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S31 in the negative direction of the X-axis. The air flow generating member 232 has a gap G3, which is a slit-shaped space that is long in the Y-axis direction and penetrates the interior from the bottom surface S31 to each of the tips T31, T32. The air flow generating member 231 is tapered toward each of the tips T31, T32.

[0133] The gap G3 branches inside the airflow generating member 232. The gap G3 has a bottom surface S31-side portion that penetrates the interior in the Z-axis direction, a tip end T31-side portion that penetrates the interior in the Z-axis direction on the same straight line as the bottom surface S31-side portion, and a tip end T32-side portion that is a hole formed from the tip end T32 in the X-axis direction. The bottom surface S31-side portion branches into the tip end T31-side portion and the tip end T32-side portion.

[0134] Note that "the same straight line" here refers to the shape of the airflow generating member 232 in a cross section on the XZ plane. Also, "straight line" here includes a straight line having a certain thickness. The same applies to the following explanation.

[0135] As in this modification, the airflow generating member may have multiple tips. The gap may penetrate the interior from the bottom surface to each of the multiple tips. In this case, the gap is a space that branches out internally into the multiple tips.

[0136] == Variation 3 == 17 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation device 23 of this modified example. The airflow generation device 23 of this modified example is different from the airflow generation device 2 of the first embodiment (FIG. 5) in the configuration of the airflow generation member 233.

[0137] The air flow generating member 233 has two tips T41, T42. Specifically, the tip T41 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S41 in the positive direction of the X axis, and the tip T42 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S41 in the negative direction of the X axis. The air flow generating member 233 is provided with a gap G4, which is a slit-shaped space that is long in the Y axis direction and penetrates the interior from the bottom surface S41 to each of the tips T41, T42. The air flow generating member 233 is tapered toward each of the tips T41, T42.

[0138] The gap G4 branches inside the airflow generating member 233. The gap G4 has a bottom surface S41 side portion which is a hole formed from the bottom surface S41 in the Z-axis direction, a tip end T41 side portion which penetrates the interior in the positive direction of the X-axis, and a tip end T42 side portion which penetrates the interior in the negative direction of the X-axis. The bottom surface S41 side portion branches into a tip end T41 side portion and a tip end T42 side portion. In this modification, the tip end T41 side portion and the tip end T42 side portion are formed on the same straight line.

[0139] == Variation 4 == 18 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation device 24 of this modified example. The airflow generation device 24 of this modified example is different from the airflow generation device 2 of the first embodiment (FIG. 5) in the configuration of the airflow generation member 234.

[0140] The air flow generating member 234 has three tips T51, T52, and T53. Specifically, the tip T51 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S51 in the Z-axis direction, the tip T52 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S51 in the positive direction of the X-axis, and the tip T53 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S51 in the negative direction of the X-axis. The air flow generating member 234 has a gap G5, which is a slit-shaped space that is long in the Y-axis direction and penetrates the interior from the bottom surface S51 to each of the tips T51, T52, and T53. The air flow generating member 234 is tapered toward each of the tips T51, T52, and T53.

[0141] The gap G5 branches inside the airflow generating member 234. The gap G5 has a bottom surface S51-side portion that penetrates the interior in the Z-axis direction, a tip end T51-side portion that penetrates the interior in the Z-axis direction on the same straight line as the bottom surface S31-side portion, a tip end T52-side portion that penetrates the interior in the positive direction of the X-axis, and a tip end T53-side portion that penetrates the interior in the negative direction of the X-axis. The bottom surface S51-side portion branches into a tip end T51-side portion, a tip end T52-side portion, and a tip end T53-side portion. In this modification, the tip end T52-side portion and the tip end T53-side portion are formed on the same straight line.

[0142] ==Variation 5== 19 is a cross-sectional view for explaining an airflow generation device 25 of this modified example. The airflow generation device 25 of this modified example is different from the airflow generation device 2 of the first embodiment (FIG. 5) in the configuration of the airflow generation member 235.

[0143] The air flow generating member 235 has a tip T6. Specifically, the tip T6 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S61 in the negative direction of the X axis. The air flow generating member 235 has a gap G6, which is a slit-shaped space that is long in the Y axis direction and penetrates the interior from the bottom surface S61 to the tip T6. The air flow generating member 235 tapers toward the tip T61.

[0144] The gap G6 is bent inside the airflow generating member 235. The gap G6 has a portion on the bottom surface S61 side that is a hole formed in the Z-axis direction from the bottom surface S61, and a portion on the tip end T6 side that is a hole formed in a direction inclined from the tip end T6 toward the center (a direction between the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction).

[0145] ==Variation 6== 20 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the airflow generation device 26 of this modified example. The airflow generation device 26 of this modified example is different from the airflow generation device 26 of modified example 5 (FIG. 19) in the configuration of the gap G7 provided in the airflow generating member 236.

[0146] The air flow generating member 236 has two tips T71, T72. Specifically, the tip T71 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S71 in the positive direction of the X axis, and the tip T72 is at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S71 in the negative direction of the X axis. The air flow generating member 236 is provided with a gap G7, which is a slit-shaped space that is long in the Y axis direction and penetrates the interior from the bottom surface S71 to each of the tips T71, T72. The air flow generating member 236 is tapered toward each of the tips T71, T72.

[0147] Of the gap G7, the portion that penetrates the interior from the bottom surface S71 to the tip T71 has the same configuration as the gap G6 of the sixth modification.

[0148] The void G7 further has a portion on the tip T72 side that penetrates the interior from the portion on the bottom surface S61 side in the positive direction of the X axis. The portion on the tip T72 side branches off from a hole formed in the Z axis direction at a substantially right angle toward the tip T72.

[0149] == Variation 7 == Fig. 21 is a perspective view illustrating an airflow generating device 27 of this modified example. Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an airflow generating member 237 of this modified example.

[0150] The airflow generating device 27 of this modified example differs from the first embodiment (FIG. 2) only in the configurations of the ultrasonic horn 221 and the airflow generating member 237. Each of these will be described below. The other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, so their description will be omitted.

[0151] [Ultrasonic Horn 221] In this modification, the ultrasonic horn 221 is substantially symmetrical with respect to a predetermined axis X1. The ultrasonic horn 221 is provided with a cavity 221b that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the axis X1. Accordingly, the shape of the tip surface 221a of the ultrasonic horn 221 is a circumference having a certain thickness (described later). As in the first embodiment, the shape of the tip surface 221a is designed to be equal to the shape of the bottom surface S81 of the airflow generating member 237.

[0152] [Airflow generating member 237] The airflow generating member 237 of this modified example is a substantially cylindrical member that is substantially symmetrical with respect to a predetermined axis X1.

[0153] 22, (a) shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow generation device 27 taken along a plane passing through the axis X1, and (b) shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow generation member 237 taken along a plane passing through line AA' in (a) and perpendicular to the Z axis.

[0154] The airflow generation member 237 has a bottom surface S81. The airflow generation member 237 also has a tip T8 at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S81. The surfaces between the bottom surface S81 and the tip T8 are the outer peripheral surface S82 and inner peripheral surface S83 of the airflow generation member 237. The airflow generation member 237 is tapered toward the tip T8.

[0155] A gap G8 is provided in the airflow generating member 237. The gap G8 is a space that penetrates the inside of the airflow generating member 237 from the bottom surface S81 to the tip T8 and is formed with an arc-shaped cross section. The gap G8 is a space formed between two wall surfaces S84, S85.

[0156] As shown in Fig. 22(a), the gap G8 penetrates in the direction of the Z axis. Also, as shown in Fig. 22(b), the cross-sectional shape of the gap G8 in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the Z axis is a shape that follows the circumference of a circle centered on the axis X1.

[0157] In this figure, the gap G8 is separated into three portions in the circumferential direction of the axis X1 in order to fix the airflow generating member 237 without separating it into two portions so that the two wall surfaces S84, S85 face each other at a predetermined distance.

[0158] Such airflow generating device 27 can generate a linear airflow along the circumference. Furthermore, air supplied from cavity 221b of ultrasonic horn 221 can be drawn in near tip T8. This increases the flow rate of the generated airflow.

[0159] ==Second Embodiment== Fig. 23 is a perspective view illustrating the airflow generating device 28 of this embodiment. Fig. 24 is a side view illustrating the airflow generating member 238. Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating member 238.

[0160] The airflow generating device 28 differs from the first embodiment (FIG. 2) only in the configuration of the ultrasonic horn 222 and the airflow generating member 238. Each of these will be described below. The other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, so their description will be omitted.

[0161] [Ultrasonic Horn 222] In this embodiment, the ultrasonic horn 222 is substantially symmetrical with respect to the predetermined axis X1. Accordingly, the shape of the tip surface 222a of the ultrasonic horn 222 is circular. As in the first embodiment, the shape of the tip surface 222a is designed to be equal to the shape of the bottom surface S91 of the airflow generating member 238.

[0162] [Airflow generating member 238] The air flow generating member 238 of this embodiment is a member that is substantially symmetrical with respect to a predetermined axis X1. Details of the air flow generating member 238, particularly the shape thereof, will be described below with reference to Figures 24 and 25.

[0163] Fig. 24 is a side view illustrating the airflow generating member 238. In Fig. 24, (a) shows a side view as viewed from the positive direction of the Z axis, (b) shows a side view as viewed from the positive direction of the X axis, and (c) shows a side view as viewed from the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0164] Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the airflow generating member 238. In Fig. 25, (a) shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow generating device 28 taken along a plane passing through the axis X1, and (b) shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow generating member 238 taken along a plane passing through line AA' in (a) and perpendicular to the Z axis.

[0165] The airflow generating member 238 has a bottom surface S91 (FIGS. 24 and 25(a)). The shape of the bottom surface S91 is a circle with a diameter R1. In this embodiment, the diameter R1 is 10 mm.

[0166] The airflow generating member 238 further has a tip T9 at a predetermined position away from the bottom surface S91. The surface between the bottom surface S91 and the tip T9 is a side surface S92 of the airflow generating member 238.

[0167] The airflow generating member 238 has a shape that tapers toward the tip T9. In other words, the airflow generating member 238 has a shape where the tip T9 is pointed. This will be explained in detail below.

[0168] In this embodiment, the side surface S92 of the airflow generating member 238 is made up of a curved surface S921 on the bottom surface S91 side and a curved surface S922 on the tip T9 side (FIG. 24).

[0169] The curved surface S921 is a curved surface adjacent to the bottom surface S91. The shape of the curved surface S921 is equal to the shape of the side surface of a cylinder with a diameter R1.

[0170] The curved surface S922 is a curved surface between the curved surface S921 and the tip T9. The shape of the curved surface S922 is approximately equal to the shape of the side surface of a cone with a base diameter R1.

[0171] The airflow generating member 238 has such a side surface S92 (curved surfaces S921, S922) and thus has a shape that tapers toward the tip T9.

[0172] The airflow generating member 238 has a gap G9 (FIGS. 24(a) and 25). The gap G9 is a space that penetrates the inside of the airflow generating member 238 from the bottom surface S91 to the tip T9. The gap G9 is a space surrounded by a wall surface S93.

[0173] The shape of the wall surface S93 is equal to the shape of the side surface of a cylinder with a diameter R2. The diameter R2 is sufficiently smaller than the length from the bottom surface S91 to the tip T9. In other words, the gap G9 is a linearly extending space. In this embodiment, the diameter R2 is 1.0 mm. Note that the diameter R2 is sufficiently smaller than the diameter R1.

[0174] As shown in Fig. 25(a), the gap G9 penetrates in the direction of the Z axis. Also, as shown in Fig. 25(b), the cross-sectional shape of the gap G9 in a plane perpendicular to the direction of the Z axis is a circle with a diameter R2 centered on the axis X1.

[0175] Such an airflow generating device 28 can generate an axisymmetric airflow. Furthermore, because the airflow generating member 238 tapers toward the tip T9, the air around the tip T9 is more likely to be drawn in near the tip T9. This increases the flow rate of the generated axisymmetric airflow.

[0176] ==Summary== The airflow generating device 2 of the embodiment described above comprises a vibration member having a predetermined vibration surface that can vibrate in a direction perpendicular to the vibration surface, and an airflow generating member 230 having a gap G1 that penetrates the interior from the bottom surface S11 to the tip T1 and is arranged so that the bottom surface S11 faces the vibration surface at a predetermined distance D1, the gap G1 being a space formed between two wall surfaces S13, S14 that face each other at a predetermined distance D2, and the shape of the opening on the tip T1 side is linear with a width equal to the distance D2.

[0177] With this configuration, when the vibration surface vibrates, a linear airflow is generated from the vicinity of the opening on the tip T1 side of the gap G1, thereby easing the restrictions on the range where the airflow can be applied.

[0178] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the gap G1 is a space between the bottom surface S11 and the tip T1, with the side surface S12 side closed. With this configuration, gas is not discharged from the gap G1 to the side surface S12 side, so the sound pressure inside the gap G1 can be increased. This allows the flow velocity of the generated airflow to be increased.

[0179] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the airflow generating member 230 has a shape that tapers toward the tip T1. With this configuration, gas near the airflow generating member 230 can easily reach the tip T1 along the side surface S12. This increases the flow rate of the generated airflow.

[0180] In the airflow generation device 2 of the above embodiment, the bottom surface S11 faces at least a part of the vibration surface. With this configuration, the vibration of the vibration surface can be effectively used to generate an airflow.

[0181] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the bottom surface S11 faces the entire vibration surface. With this configuration, air near the airflow generating member 230 and the vibration member can easily reach the tip T1 along the side surface S12. This further increases the flow rate of the generated airflow.

[0182] In the above-mentioned modified examples 2 to 4 and 6, the airflow generating member has a plurality of tips, and the gap penetrates the interior from the bottom surface to each of the plurality of tips, and branches into spaces equal to the number of tips. With this configuration, the degree of freedom in determining the direction of the generated airflow increases.

[0183] In the airflow generation device 2 of the above embodiment, the vibration member is an ultrasonic horn 220. According to such an example, the configuration of the airflow generation device 2 becomes easier.

[0184] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, in a predetermined Cartesian coordinate system consisting of mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes and fixed to the airflow generating member 230, the bottom surface S11 is a plane perpendicular to the Z axis, the airflow generating member 230 is arranged so that the bottom surface S11 faces the vibration plane at a distance D1 in the Z axis direction, and the gap G1 has a cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the Y axis that is uniform along the Y axis, and its width in the Y axis direction is greater than the distance D2. With this configuration, a linear airflow is generated near the opening on the tip T1 side of the gap G1. This alleviates restrictions on the range over which the airflow can be directed.

[0185] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the airflow generating member 230 has a main body 230a in which the gap G1 is provided, and side portions 230b and 230c formed at both ends of the main body 230a and closing the gap G1 from the Y-axis direction. With this configuration, air is not discharged from the gap G1 toward the side surface S12, so the sound pressure inside the gap can be increased. This increases the flow velocity of the generated linear airflow.

[0186] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the main body 230a in a plane perpendicular to the Y axis is tapered toward the tip T1. With this configuration, gas near the airflow generating member 230 can easily reach the tip T1 along the side surface S12. This increases the flow rate of the generated linear airflow.

[0187] In the airflow generating device 2 of the above embodiment, the gap G1 penetrates the interior in the direction of the Z axis. With this configuration, the flow velocity and volume of the generated airflow can be increased.

[0188] The airflow generating method of the above embodiment includes the steps of: arranging an airflow generating member 230 having a predetermined vibration surface and a gap G1 extending from the bottom surface S11 to the tip T1 on a vibration member that has a predetermined vibration surface and is capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibration surface, so that the bottom surface S11 faces the vibration surface at a predetermined distance D1; and vibrating the vibration surface, wherein the gap G1 is a space formed between opposing wall surfaces S13 and S14 at a predetermined distance D2, and the shape of the opening on the tip T1 side is linear with a width equal to the distance D2.

[0189] With this configuration, when the vibration surface vibrates, a linear airflow is generated from the vicinity of the opening on the tip T1 side of the gap G. This alleviates the restriction on the range where the airflow can be applied.

[0190] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0191] 1. Airflow generation system 2,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28 Airflow generating device 210 Vibration unit 220,221,222 Ultrasonic Horn 220a,221a,222a Tip surface 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238 Airflow generating members 230a Main body 230b, 230c Side 3. Oscillators 4. Control device S11,S21,S31,S41,S51,S61,S71,S81,S91 Bottom S12, S92 Side Planes S121, S122, S123, S124, S125, S126, S127, S128 S13,S14,S84,S85,S93 wall S82 outer perimeter S83 inner circumferential surface S921, S922 curved surfaces T1,T2,T31,T32,T41,T42,T51,T52,T53,T6,T71,T72,T8,T9 apex

Claims

1. a vibration member having a predetermined vibration surface, the vibration surface being vibrable in a direction perpendicular to the vibration surface; an airflow generating member having a gap penetrating the interior from a bottom surface to a tip, the airflow generating member being disposed so that the bottom surface faces the vibration surface with a predetermined first distance therebetween; Equipped with The void is a space formed between two wall surfaces facing each other with a predetermined second gap therebetween, The shape of the opening on the tip side is a line having a width equal to the second interval and a length longer than the second interval. Airflow generating device.

2. The airflow generating device according to claim 1, The void is The side surface between the bottom surface and the tip is a closed space. Airflow generating device.

3. The airflow generating device according to claim 1, The airflow generating member has a shape tapered toward the tip. Airflow generating device.

4. The airflow generating device according to claim 1, The bottom surface is facing each other across at least a portion of the vibration surface; Airflow generating device.

5. The airflow generating device according to claim 4, The bottom surface is Opposing over the entire vibration surface, Airflow generating device.

6. The airflow generating device according to claim 1, The airflow generating member is a plurality of said tips; The void is penetrating the interior from the bottom surface to each of the plurality of tips; A space branching internally as many times as the number of the plurality of tips, Airflow generating device.

7. The airflow generating device according to claim 1, The vibrating member is an ultrasonic horn. Airflow generating device.

8. The airflow generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, In a predetermined Cartesian coordinate system consisting of first to third axes perpendicular to one another and fixed to the airflow generating member, The bottom surface is a plane perpendicular to the first axis, The airflow generating member is the bottom surface is disposed to face the vibration surface at the first distance in the direction of the first axis, The void is a cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second axis is uniform along the second axis, and a width along the second axis is greater than the second interval; Airflow generating device.

9. The airflow generating device according to claim 8, The airflow generating member is a main body portion in which the gap is provided; and side portions formed on both ends of the main body portion and closing the gap from the second axial direction. Airflow generating device.

10. The airflow generating device according to claim 9, The main body portion is The cross-sectional shape in a plane perpendicular to the second axis is a shape that tapers toward the tip. Airflow generating device.

11. The airflow generating device according to claim 8, The void is extending through the interior in the direction of the first axis; Airflow generating device.

12. A vibration member having a predetermined vibration surface, the vibration surface being capable of vibrating in a direction perpendicular to the vibration surface, a step of disposing an airflow generating member having a gap penetrating the interior from a bottom surface to a tip such that the bottom surface faces the vibration surface with a predetermined first distance therebetween; vibrating the vibration surface; Including, The void is a space formed between two wall surfaces facing each other with a predetermined second gap therebetween, The shape of the opening on the tip side is a line having a width equal to the second interval and a length longer than the second interval. Airflow generation method.

13. An airflow generating member having a gap penetrating the inside from the bottom surface to the tip, a main body portion in which the gap is provided; side portions formed on both ends of the main body portion and closing the gap from both ends of the main body portion; Equipped with The void is A space formed between two opposing wall surfaces at a predetermined distance, The shape of the opening on the tip side is a line having a width equal to the interval and a length longer than the interval. Airflow generating member.

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