Sauna, sauna humidification system

Abstract

To improve a relaxation effect by stabilizing the humidity of a sauna.SOLUTION: A humidification system 15 for humidifying air in a sauna room 11 includes a spray device 51 having a mist generation part capable of generating mist for humidification by atomizing water stored in a tank by ultrasonic vibration, and a duct 61 for supplying the mist generated by the mist generation part to the sauna room 11. The duct 61 is connected to a supply port 64 provided near the floor part 21 of the sauna room 11, and the mist discharged from the supply port 64 temporarily stays in a stay area RA which is an area along the floor part 21. In the retention region RA, an air flow (convection) toward the heating unit 12 side installed on the floor portion 21 is generated, and the supplied mist is guided to the heating unit 12 side by the air flow. In the process of this guiding, at least a part of the mist is vaporized.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sauna and a humidification system for a sauna.

Background Art

[0002] For example, some saunas such as Finnish saunas are configured to increase the perceived temperature and promote sweating of users by humidifying the air in the sauna room. Specifically, in some cases, humidification is performed by generating steam by so-called louliyu in which water is sprayed onto sauna stones installed in the sauna room (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003] [[ID=2**2]]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Here, when a user or the like performs louliyu, the humidity greatly increases around the sauna stones, and the humidity decreases over time. Therefore, louliyu is often repeatedly performed while leaving a certain amount of time. However, in such a humidification method, the humidity change over time becomes large. In addition, a difference in humidity is likely to occur depending on the position in the sauna room, such as the distance from the sauna stones. In the sauna room, if the humidity is extremely low, the mucous membranes are likely to become painful, the tips of the ears and hands and feet become too hot, and the burden on the body increases. If the humidity is extremely high, sweat evaporation becomes difficult, the perceived temperature becomes too high, and it becomes difficult to breathe. For these reasons, there is still room for improvement in the configuration related to the humidification of the sauna in order to preferably exhibit the relaxation effect of the sauna.

[0005] Note: There are two consecutive tags numbered 19 and 22 in the original text which seem to be a typo or error in numbering. They are kept as they are in the translation for the sake of following the instruction.This invention has been made in view of the circumstances illustrated above, and aims to contribute to improving the relaxation effect by stabilizing the humidity of the sauna. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention A sauna humidification system applied to a sauna room in which a heat source is installed and which is heated by the heat source, for humidifying the air in the sauna room, A mist generating unit that generates humidifying mist by atomizing water using ultrasonic vibrations, A supply unit that supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit to the sauna room. Equipped with, The configuration is such that the mist supplied by the supply unit is temporarily retained in a specific area of ​​the sauna room. The heat source unit comprises sauna stones and a stove for heating the sauna stones. The aforementioned specific area is an area along the floor portion of the sauna room, and the heat source is installed in this floor portion. When the air in the sauna room is humidified with the mist, at least a portion of the mist remaining in the specific area is vaporized by the heat from the heat source. It is characterized by the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, stabilizing the humidity of a sauna can contribute to improving the relaxation effect. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of a sauna in one embodiment, viewed from the side. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram of the sauna viewed from the front. [Figure 3] A schematic diagram showing indoor temperature. [Figure 4] A schematic diagram showing a humidifier. [Figure 5] A schematic diagram showing the changes in humidity. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram showing a modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes one embodiment of a humidification system used in a sauna, with reference to the drawings. First, the overview of the sauna 10 will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the sauna 10 viewed from the side, and Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the sauna viewed from the front. For the sake of explanation, the illustration of the mist MS, which will be discussed later, has been omitted from Figures 1 and 2.

[0010] As shown in Figure 1, the sauna 10 is a so-called Finnish-style sauna, comprising a sauna room 11 and a heating unit 12, which is a heat source for the sauna room 11. The sauna room 11 is roughly rectangular in plan view, and a horizontally elongated bench 31 is installed on its floor 21 along the back wall 23 of the sauna room 11. The bench 31 is tiered (three steps in this embodiment), becoming higher towards the back, allowing multiple users to sit simultaneously.

[0011] In addition, the floor 21 of the sauna room 11 is covered by benches 31 on the back wall side 23, while the front half is exposed. This exposed portion functions as a passageway for users to move around inside the sauna room 11.

[0012] As shown in Figure 2, the heating unit 12 and a protective fence surrounding the heating unit 12 are installed in the corner of the sauna room 11 (near the left wall 24). The heating unit 12 consists of a gas stove 41 placed on the floor 21, a number of sauna stones 42 stacked above the gas stove 41, and a lattice-shaped frame 43 that prevents the sauna stones 42 from falling, and functions as a means of adjusting (heating up and maintaining) the room temperature of the sauna room 11 to an appropriate temperature (for example, 95°C).

[0013] The sauna 10 illustrated in this embodiment is a so-called convection-type sauna. Now, referring to Figure 3, the convection generated in the sauna room 11 with the heating unit 12 as the heat source will be explained.

[0014] When a fluid such as air is heated, its density decreases, becoming lighter and rising. Then, when the temperature drops, its density increases and it descends. The air heated by the heating unit 12 rises toward the ceiling part 22 along the left wall part 24 of the sauna room 11, and the air that reaches the ceiling part 22 first is pushed out by the new hot air coming from behind. In the present embodiment, a reflector 28 is disposed near the boundary between the left wall part 24 and the ceiling part 22, and is configured to guide the air rising along the left wall part 24 to the right wall part 25 side. After reaching near the ceiling part 22, it gradually moves to the right wall part 25 side along the ceiling part 22 while decreasing the temperature, and then descends, for example, along the right wall part 25. After descending to the floor part 21 side, it heads toward the heating unit 12 side (left wall part 24 side) along the floor part 21. Then, it rises to the ceiling part 22 side again by being heated by the heating unit 12. Note that the location, number, and shape of the reflector 28 are arbitrary. Also, the reflector 28 may be omitted as long as the air flow as described above can be generated.

[0015] In the sauna room 11, although the temperature difference at each position is alleviated to some extent by such an air flow, there is still a certain temperature difference at each position. Specifically, the temperature (H0) at a position close to the heating unit 12 is higher than the temperature at a position far from the heating unit 12, and the temperature (H1: for example, 110°C) near the ceiling part 22 of the sauna room 11 is higher than the temperature (H3: for example, 85°C) near the floor part 21 of the sauna room 11. Note that the temperature (H2: for example, 90°C) at the middle part between the ceiling part 22 and the floor part 21 is higher than the temperature (H3) near the floor part 21 and lower than the temperature (H1) near the ceiling part 22.

[0016] Here, in a Finnish sauna, so-called löyly, which generates steam by pouring water on sauna stones, may be performed. Humidification by löyly can increase the perceived temperature and promote sweating. However, if the humidity in the sauna room becomes excessively high, it can cause discomfort, and if the humidity is too low, the effect of promoting sweating will not be effectively exerted. Therefore, löyly is generally repeated at intervals of a certain period (for example, every hour). However, when humidifying by such a method, the change in humidity over time becomes large. For example, immediately after löyly, the humidity becomes excessively high and causes discomfort, or after a certain period of time from löyly, the humidity becomes low and the effect of promoting sweating decreases.

[0017] In this embodiment, in consideration of such circumstances, one of the features is that a device is provided to suppress the humidity in the sauna room 11 from becoming excessively high or low and to stabilize the humidity. Hereinafter, referring to FIG. 4, the humidification system 15 applied to the sauna room 11 will be described.

[0018] The humidification system 15 includes a spray device 51 installed in the machine room 18 and a duct 61 for supplying the mist MS generated by the spray device 51 to the sauna room 11. The spray device 51 has a housing 52 provided with a tank 53 for storing water and a water supply pipe connected to the tank 53. A water supply valve for opening and closing the water supply pipe is provided at an intermediate position of the water supply pipe. When the water storage amount in the tank 53 falls below the lower limit (set value), the water supply valve switches to the open state, and water is automatically supplied from the water supply (water temperature: for example, 5 to 30°C). When the water storage amount in the tank 53 reaches the upper limit (set value), the water supply valve switches to the closed state, and the water supply is automatically stopped.

[0019] The housing 52 is provided with a transducer 54 positioned so as to be submerged in the water in the tank 53, and a control board 56 that controls the driving of the transducer 54. When power is supplied from the control board 56 to the transducer 54, the transducer 54 vibrates and generates ultrasonic waves. These ultrasonic waves atomize the water stored in the tank 53, generating mist MS, which is a mist-like droplet. Specifically, mist MS is generated in the upper part (void) of the tank 53. In the spraying device 51 shown in this embodiment, the tank 53, transducer 54, and control board 56 constitute a mist generation unit 57 that generates mist MS.

[0020] Furthermore, the housing 52 has a passage 58 formed therein for releasing the mist MS generated by the mist generation unit 57 to the outside of the spraying device 51 (housing 52). An intake pipe 63, which constitutes the upstream part of the duct 61 and connects the intake port 62 provided in the sauna room 11 to the inlet portion 58a of this passage 58, is connected therein. A supply pipe 65, which constitutes the downstream part of the duct 61 and connects the supply port 64 provided in the sauna room 11 to the outlet portion 58b of the passage 58, is connected therein.

[0021] A fan 55, which is a means of blowing air, is installed in the middle of the passage 58, specifically in the housing 52. The fan 55 is connected to the control board 56, and the control board 56 controls the operation (ON / OFF control) of the fan 55. When the fan 55 is turned ON, an airflow is generated from the intake port 62 to the supply port 64, and the air from inside the sauna room 11 taken in from the intake port 62 moves through the passage 58 from the inlet 58a side to the outlet 58b side. The mist MS generated in the mist generation unit 57 travels with this airflow to the supply port 64 and is supplied to the sauna room 11 through the supply port 64. This mist MS appears cloudy white due to diffuse reflection of light from light sources such as the sauna room 11 (see dot hatching in Figure 3). In the following description, the humidifying air supplied from the spraying device 51 to the sauna room 11, containing the mist MS, is also referred to as humidifying air HA (see Figure 4).

[0022] The spraying device 51 described in detail above is a non-heating type humidifier that does not require heating of the water stored in the tank 53 when generating mist MS, and it is also lacking a heating unit for heating the mist MS. Similarly, the duct 61 described above is not equipped with a heating unit for heating the air from the sauna room 11 drawn in from the intake port 62 or the mist MS. As will be explained in more detail later, the temperature of the air inside the sauna room 11 taken in from the intake port 62 (for example, 85°C) and the temperature of the mist MS (humidifying air HA) supplied to the sauna room 11 from the supply port 64 are approximately the same, or more specifically, the mist (humidifying air HA) is slightly lower.

[0023] As already explained, convection occurs within the sauna room 11, and temperature differences occur depending on the location. One of the features of this embodiment is that the humidity of the sauna room 11 is stabilized by utilizing such convection and temperature differences. The configuration for stabilizing humidity will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 4. First, a supplementary explanation will be given regarding the relationship between the air intake port 62 and the supply port 64 and the temperature of the sauna room 11, based on Figure 1.

[0024] As described above, the bench 31 shown in this embodiment is shaped like a staircase (specifically, three steps) that rises in stages from the front to the back of the sauna room 11, and a supply port 64 for supplying mist MS is provided on the vertical plate portion 32b that spans the seat surface 32a of the lower portion 32 of the bench 31 and the floor portion 21. The mist MS supplied to the sauna room 11 from this supply port 64 does not immediately vaporize (evaporate), but temporarily remains in the area along the floor portion 21 (the area directly above the floor portion 21). In other words, the mist MS supplied to the sauna room 11 temporarily remains in a manner that covers the floor portion 21. In the following description, this area will be referred to as the retention area RA (corresponding to the "specific area").

[0025] The dwelling area RA is the area enclosed by the floor 21, the vertical plate 32b of the bench 31, the left and right walls 24 and 25, and the front wall, and its upper limit is set to be at approximately the same height as the seat surface 32a of the bench 31. Mist MS is supplied (released) from near the legs of the user sitting on the lower part 32 of the bench 31, but heating of the mist MS is avoided and it is atomized. This suppresses the user from feeling uncomfortable with the mist MS even if it hits their legs, and eases the constraints on the placement of the supply port 64.

[0026] Next, a supplementary explanation will be given regarding the position of the air intake 62. In the humidification system 15 shown in this embodiment, the air intake 62 is located in region IA (see Figure 1), which is surrounded by the floor 21, walls 23-25, and bench 31 of the sauna room 11. This region IA is closer to the floor 21, and the presence of the wooden bench 31 makes it less susceptible to the heat from the heating unit 12 compared to other regions. More specifically, although the temperature is higher than outside the sauna room 11 (for example, outside air: -20 to 40°C), it is a relatively low temperature region within the sauna room 11. The humidification system 15 is configured such that the temperature of the mist MS (humidifying air HA) supplied to the sauna room 11 from the supply port 64 is slightly lower than the temperature of the stagnant region RA, and sufficiently lower than the temperature of the region above the stagnant region RA. This prevents the mist MS (humidifying air HA) supplied to the stagnant region RA from rising above the stagnant region RA. This helps to suppress the instantaneous vaporization of the mist MS and enables a configuration in which it remains in the retention region RA.

[0027] Furthermore, an airflow is generated in the sauna room 11 that follows the floor 21 toward the heating unit 12. By promoting the movement of the mist MS by allowing it to ride on this airflow, the immediate outflow of the mist MS from the retention area RA is suppressed, and this contributes to realizing a configuration in which such airflow remains in the retention area RA.

[0028] The mist MS supplied to the stagnant region RA moves toward the heating unit 12 by riding the airflow caused by convection. During this movement, the mist MS gradually vaporizes (evaporates) due to the influence of the relatively high temperature (e.g., 90°C) air above the stagnant region RA. In other words, vaporization of the mist MS continues even while it is stagnant. When it approaches the heating unit 12, vaporization (evaporation) proceeds rapidly in the high-temperature area of ​​the heating unit 12 or its surroundings, and it rises toward the ceiling 22 by riding the updraft generated near the heating unit 12.

[0029] Here, we will provide a supplementary explanation regarding the positional relationship between the supply port 64 and the heating unit 12. As shown in Figure 2, the heating unit 12 in this embodiment is located in the corner of the sauna room 11 and is off the extension of the mist MS supply port 64. Therefore, the mist MS supplied from the supply port 64 to the sauna room 11 does not immediately go towards the heating unit 12. The direction of the supply port 64, that is, the direction of mist MS supply, is in a direction that intersects with the airflow along the floor 21 due to convection, so the mist MS released from the supply port 64 changes direction due to convection and flows towards the heating unit 12. This configuration increases the residence time of the mist MS in the retention area RA.

[0030] In the sauna 10 shown in this embodiment, the heating unit 12 is positioned in one corner of the retention area RA, and the frame 43 housing the sauna stones 42 and the protective fence surrounding the heating unit 12 are provided with passages through which the mist MS can pass, allowing the mist MS to move toward the sauna stones 42. Incidentally, a portion of the gas stove 41 (sauna stone group 42) protrudes upward from the retention area RA, preventing the gas stove 41 from becoming obscured and difficult to see even when the mist MS is retained in the retention area RA. This is a desirable configuration in terms of ensuring the safety of the sauna room 11.

[0031] In the humidification system 15 shown in this embodiment, it is assumed that the power to the spraying device 51 is kept ON during business hours. When the power to the spraying device 51 is ON, the supply of mist MS continues without interruption, except when the supply stop conditions described later are met. To further explain the supply stop conditions, the control board 56 of the spraying device 51 is connected to a water volume sensor for determining the amount of water stored in the tank 53 and a temperature sensor for determining the temperature of the air taken in from the air intake port 62. When the water volume falls below the stop standard water volume or when the measured air temperature exceeds the stop standard temperature, the transducer 54 and fan 55 are stopped, thereby stopping the supply of mist MS. After the supply of mist MS is stopped, the supply will be resumed when the water volume exceeds the stop standard volume and the measured temperature falls below the standard temperature.

[0032] Next, with reference to Figure 5, the changes in humidity in the sauna room 11 when the humidification system 15 is in operation will be explained. In Figure 5, the changes in humidity when humidification is performed by the humidification system 15 are illustrated with a solid line, and for comparison (in proportion), the changes in humidity when humidification is performed by self-löyly are illustrated with a dashed line.

[0033] As illustrated by the dashed line in Figure 5, when self-löyly is performed regularly, the humidity will rise sharply immediately after the self-löyly, and then decrease over time, repeating this cycle periodically. In this case, the rise in humidity immediately after self-löyly strongly promotes sweating, but the excessively high humidity may cause some users to feel breathless. On the other hand, as the humidity decreases over time, the breathlessness is alleviated, but the effect of promoting sweating is not as effective.

[0034] In contrast, with the humidification system 15 shown in this embodiment, the supply of mist MS is not sporadic, but rather continues without interruption unless conditions such as water shortage or exceeding the temperature limit are met. This suppresses changes in humidity over time. Small amounts of water gradually vaporize (evaporate), which prevents the humidity from becoming excessively high or low. For example, in the example shown in Figure 5, the humidity in the sauna room 11 fluctuates slowly but is maintained at approximately 35%.

[0035] The supply ports 64 for supplying mist MS are arranged in multiple locations (specifically three) along the longitudinal direction of the bench 31, that is, along the floor 21, in the direction in which air flows (see Figure 2). This is a measure to increase the amount of mist MS supplied to the stagnant area RA while suppressing uneven distribution of mist MS within the stagnant area RA. With this configuration, it is possible to cover almost the entire floor 21 with mist MS. The mist MS that remains in the stagnant area RA will vaporize over time. By vaporizing the mist MS over a wide area, it is possible to mitigate uneven humidity distribution depending on the location within the sauna room 11. For example, when performing löyly, which involves pouring water onto the heating unit 12 (sauna stones 42), the humidity rises significantly around the heating unit 12. In such a configuration, differences in humidity can occur depending on the location even within the sauna room 11. Although these differences in humidity are mitigated by convection within the sauna room 11, the humidity does not necessarily become uniform. In this regard, as described above, by configuring the mist MS to remain in place so as to cover the floor 21, the thinly spread and remaining mist MS will vaporize over a wide area, effectively mitigating humidity imbalances depending on location. This contributes to stabilizing the humidity in the sauna room 11. Incidentally, as described above, the mist MS appears cloudy white. Therefore, an effect (visual effect) can be expected that makes the sauna room 11 appear as if it were above a cloud.

[0036] According to the embodiments described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be expected.

[0037] According to the humidification system 15 shown in the above embodiment, the mist MS supplied to the sauna room 11 is configured to vaporize (evaporate) during the process of moving toward the heating unit 12, that is, while it is lingering in the stagnation region RA. This prevents the humidity in the sauna room 11 from becoming excessively high or low, thus contributing to humidity stabilization. As a result, while promoting sweating by raising the perceived temperature through humidification, it is possible to avoid the inconvenience of excessive humidity causing breathlessness.

[0038] In particular, by configuring the mist MS to remain in a region along the floor 21 (retention region RA), it is possible to suppress the rapid evaporation of the retained mist MS and prevent large humidity differences from occurring depending on the distance from the heating unit 12 and the air intake 62. In particular, since the mist MS moves along the airflow along the floor 21, the unevenness of the vaporization location can be effectively mitigated. Furthermore, the mist MS will move toward the heating unit 12, which is the heat source, by riding on the airflow, and will rapidly vaporize (evaporate) at or around the heating unit 12. Here, since the retained mist MS is sequentially guided to the heating unit 12 by the aforementioned airflow, it is possible to avoid the phenomenon of the supplied mist MS rushing to the heating unit 12 and vaporizing all at once. This is preferable for stabilizing humidity.

[0039] In the above embodiment, the mist MS is sent into the sauna room 11 using the air heated in the sauna room 11. With this configuration, the temperature drop in the sauna room 11 due to the supply of mist MS can be suppressed. In particular, the air intake 62 is located in a relatively low-temperature area (apart from the high-temperature area) within the sauna room 11. Specifically, it is located at a position where the temperature is approximately the same as (slightly lower than) that of the stagnant area RA near the floor 21. Therefore, the supplied mist MS is prevented from immediately rising towards the ceiling 22 side along with the humidifying air HA after being supplied, that is, from immediately vaporizing due to the influence of the high-temperature air.

[0040] Furthermore, the sauna room 11 is configured to create an airflow (convection) along the floor 21, and the mist MS (humidifying air HA) supplied to the retention area RA moves toward the heating unit 12 side by riding on this airflow. By utilizing such an airflow configuration, it is advantageous in suppressing the occurrence of airflow toward the ceiling 22 side near the floor 21 compared to a case where such airflow does not occur. In other words, it is preferable for realizing a configuration in which the mist MS is retained in the retention area RA.

[0041] The supply port 64 shown in the above embodiment is positioned such that the heating unit 12 is not located on the extension of the supply port 64, and the direction of mist MS supply is configured to intersect with the direction of airflow near the floor 21. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress the supplied mist MS from moving vigorously towards the heating unit 12. This is preferable for increasing the residence time of the mist MS.

[0042] The spraying device 51 (mist generating unit 57) shown in the above embodiment is of the ultrasonic type, and does not require heating of water when generating mist MS. Being able to generate mist MS without heating is advantageous in suppressing the rise of mist MS supplied to the sauna room 11 along with the humidifying air HA immediately after supply.

[0043] In the humidification system 15 shown in the above embodiment, by accumulating mist MS in the area (floor 21) used as a passageway by users of the sauna 10, it is possible to suppress the sauna room 11 from becoming enlarged or the number of people it can accommodate being reduced in order to realize a configuration that allows mist MS to accumulate.

[0044] By installing the heating unit 12 in a section of the retention area RA where the mist MS is retained, while ensuring that the movement of the mist MS toward the heating unit 12 is not obstructed by protective fences or the like, the retained mist MS will vaporize (evaporate) in or around the heating unit 12. This is preferable in preventing the mist MS from remaining for too long and adhering to the floor 21, etc. In particular, when using the floor 21, which functions as a passageway, to constitute the retention area RA, there is technical significance in suppressing the adhesion of mist MS to the floor 21 and considering the safety of users.

[0045] Although the aforementioned supply ports 64 are located at the user's feet, the mist MS released from these ports 64 is at approximately the same temperature as the sauna room 11 (temperature near the floor 21). Therefore, even if the mist MS hits the user's feet, it is less likely to cause discomfort. Furthermore, since the constraints on the placement of the supply ports 64 are relaxed, it is advantageous to realize a configuration in which multiple supply ports 64 are scattered to allow the mist MS to linger over a wider area.

[0046] The mist MS shown in this embodiment is made of finely atomized water, and appears cloudy due to the reflection of light from the light source in the sauna room 11. In other words, by allowing the mist MS to remain on the floor 21 and covering the floor 21 with the mist MS, a visual effect (theatrical effect) can be achieved that makes it seem as if one is on a cloud. Realizing such an unprecedented and innovative sauna is desirable in order to improve user satisfaction.

[0047] Furthermore, configuring the heating unit 12 installed in the sauna room 11 to include sauna stones 42 is preferable not only for maintaining the temperature of the sauna room 11 but also for enhancing the visual satisfaction of users by appealing to their sauna-like appearance. Here, while configuring the heating unit 12 to be placed in the mist MS retention area RA, setting at least a portion of the sauna stones 42 to protrude upward from the retention area RA prevents the sauna stones 42 from being hidden and becoming invisible by the mist MS. This is preferable for improving the visual satisfaction mentioned above. Also, configuring the heating unit 12 (sauna stones 42) to protrude from the retention area RA is preferable in terms of considering user safety.

[0048] <Other Embodiments> Furthermore, the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and may be implemented as follows, for example. Incidentally, each of the following configurations may be applied individually to the above embodiments, or some or all of them may be combined and applied to the above embodiments.

[0049] (1) In the above embodiment, the mist MS is retained in the area that serves as a passageway in the sauna room 11 (above the floor 21). However, it is also possible to replace or add to this configuration by retaining the mist MS in areas other than the passageway in the sauna room 11. For example, it is also possible to install a partition around the heating unit 12 (sauna stone 42), which is the "heat source," and retain the mist MS in the area enclosed by the partition. However, in order to achieve the various effects shown in the above embodiment while saving space in the sauna room 11, there is technical significance in retaining the mist MS in the area that serves as a passageway in the sauna room 11.

[0050] The retention area RA, which is the area where the mist MS is retained, was set to be the area from the floor 21 to the seat surface 32a of the lower part 32 of the bench 31, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be set to be the area from the floor 21 to the seat surface of the middle part 33 of the bench 31, or it may be set to be the area from the floor 21 to the seat surface of the upper part 34 of the bench 31.

[0051] (2) In the above embodiment, the supply port 64, which is the outlet for mist MS (humidifying air HA), is located on the bench 31. However, it is also possible to arrange the outlet on the walls 23-25 ​​or the floor 21 of the sauna room 11, for example. Alternatively, instead of arranging the outlet for mist MS closer to the floor 21, it may be arranged closer to the ceiling 22. However, as shown in the above embodiment, there is technical significance in arranging the outlet closer to the floor 21, or more specifically in the vicinity of the floor 21, in order to allow the mist MS to accumulate in the retention area RA along the floor 21 and gradually vaporize the mist MS.

[0052] (3) In the humidification system 15 shown in the above embodiment, the intake port 62 is located in the sauna room 11 to take in heated air from inside the sauna room 11, but the system is not limited to this. It is also possible to take in air from outside the sauna room 11, for example, air that is cooler than the room temperature inside the sauna room 11 (such as air from the machine room 18 or outside air). In addition, in the above embodiment, the intake port 62 is located in the area IA surrounded by the bench 31 and the walls 23-25, but the position of the intake port can be changed as desired. However, in order to suppress the temperature of the supplied mist MS (humidifying air HA), it is preferable to place the intake port in a location away from high-temperature areas such as around the heating unit 12 or near the ceiling 22.

[0053] (4) In the above embodiment, the example was given in which one heating unit 12, which is a "heat source unit", is provided in the sauna room 11. However, the number of "heat source units" is arbitrary, and it is possible to have multiple "heat source units" (for example, two, three, or four). The type of "heat source unit" is arbitrary, but it is preferable that at least one of the heating units has a sauna stone and a stove.

[0054] (5) In the above embodiment, the heating unit 12, which is the "heat source," is placed in the retention area RA. However, it is sufficient for the heating unit 12 to be placed in a position where the mist MS supplied from the supply port 64 can reach it, and this does not preclude placing the heating unit 12 outside the retention area RA. In the above embodiment, the heating unit 12 is placed in a position off the extension of the supply port 64, but it is also possible to place the heating unit 12 on the extension of the supply port 64.

[0055] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the mist MS supplied from the supply port 64 to the sauna room 11 remains in the retention area RA, which is the area along the floor 21, and the retained mist MS is guided to the heating unit 12 by the airflow in the sauna room 11 (by the airflow along the floor 21). However, the system is not limited to this configuration. For example, as shown in Figure 6, it is also possible to arrange the supply port 64X in the area SA surrounding the heating unit 12 and blow the mist MS towards the heating unit 12 (sauna stone 42).

[0056] (6) In the above embodiment, a part of the heating unit 12 (sauna stone group 42) is configured to protrude upward from the area where the mist MS is retained (retention area RA), but it is also possible to configure the entire heating unit 12 to be contained within the retention area RA.

[0057] (7) In the above embodiment, the heating unit 12 is composed of a gas stove 41, sauna stones 42 stacked on the gas stove 41, and a frame 43 that houses the sauna stones 42. However, the specific configuration of the heating unit 12 can be arbitrarily changed as long as it promotes the vaporization of the mist MS. For example, it may be electric instead of gas, or wood-fired. Also, the sauna stones 42 may be made of metal such as refractory ceramic instead of natural stone.

[0058] (8) In the above embodiment, an example was given in which an ultrasonic mist generating unit 57 is used as the "mist generating unit". However, the mist generating method is not limited to an ultrasonic type as long as it is possible to generate a mist with small particles while suppressing the temperature of the mist MS (humidifying air HA) supplied to the sauna room 11.

[0059] (9) In the above embodiment, an example was given of a configuration in which an ultrasonic mist generator generates finely atomized droplets with a diameter of approximately 4 to 5 micrometers, but the size of the droplets is not limited thereto. For example, the diameter may be set to be smaller than 4 micrometers, or larger than 5 micrometers. However, if the diameter is too small, the visibility of the mist will decrease, and if the diameter is too large, the mist will fall more easily (the residence time will be shorter). For these reasons, it is preferable that the diameter of the fine particles generated by the ultrasonic mist generator be approximately 4 to 5 micrometers.

[0060] (10) In the above embodiment, the supply of mist MS is stopped when the temperature of the air taken in from the intake port 62 (intake temperature) reaches a set upper limit temperature, but the system is not limited to this. It is also possible to configure the system without setting an upper limit temperature. Furthermore, if the intake temperature exceeds the upper limit temperature, it is also possible to configure the system to adjust the temperature of the mist MS (humidifying air HA) to a predetermined temperature by mixing in air at a lower temperature than the intake temperature (for example, outside air).

[0061] (11) In the above embodiment, an example was given of a configuration in which the supply of mist MS continues without interruption when the power supply of the spraying device 51 is ON, except when the stop condition is met. However, this does not negate a configuration in which the supply of mist MS is temporarily or irregularly interrupted. However, compared to, for example, self-löyly, which generates steam by pouring water directly onto the heating unit 12 (sauna stone 42), the amount of water supplied per unit time by mist MS may be less. Therefore, in order to stabilize the humidity of the sauna room 11, it is technically significant to configure the system to continue the supply of mist MS as much as possible, and it is preferable that the supply period of mist MS be longer than the supply interruption period.

[0062] (12) In addition to humidification by mist MS as shown in the above embodiment, the configuration may also include automatic humidification (so-called auto-löyly) that periodically supplies a fixed amount of water to the sauna stones 42 of the heating unit 12. Even in this case, since humidification by mist MS is being performed, the amount of water supplied can be reduced, making it less likely for problems such as excessively high humidity to occur when a fixed amount of water is supplied to occur. It is also possible to implement self-löyly, in which the user pours water by hand, instead of or in addition to auto-löyly.

[0063] (13) In the above embodiment, the mist MS is generated from water, but for example, the mist may be generated from water containing a small amount of radiation. Specifically, it is also possible to arrange natural stones such as radium ore or radon ceramics so that they are immersed in the water in the tank 53, and generate mist from the water. With such a configuration, when the mist comes into contact with the user's skin or is inhaled, effects such as the effects of negative ions and the hormesis effect from small amounts of radiation, such as increased immunity due to the activation of biological functions, can be expected. In particular, in the humidification system 15 shown in the above embodiment, the humidifying mist MS is kept in the sauna room 11 and the mist MS is prevented from becoming excessively hot, so that users of the sauna 10 can easily enjoy the above-mentioned benefits.

[0064] Furthermore, it is possible to replace or add scent-emitting substances (objects) such as tea leaves, aroma oils, herbal medicines, or cypress wood to the spraying device 51, thereby adding a specific scent to the water that forms the basis for generating the mist MS. Such a configuration can contribute to increased user satisfaction through the relaxation effect of the scent. For example, it is preferable to arrange the substance so that it is immersed in the water in the tank 53.

[0065] (14) In the above embodiment, an example was given of applying the humidification system 15 to a sauna 10 as a commercial facility, but it is also possible to apply this humidification system 15 to a home sauna.

[0066] <Regarding the characteristics of the group of inventions extracted from the above embodiments> The following describes the features of the group of inventions extracted from the above embodiments, showing effects and other details as necessary. For ease of understanding, the configurations of corresponding embodiments are indicated in parentheses, but the invention is not limited to these configurations.

[0067] Feature 1. A sauna humidification system (humidification system 15) applied to a sauna room (sauna room 11) in which a heat source (heating unit 12) is installed and the temperature is raised by the heat source, and which humidifies the air in the sauna room, A mist generating unit (mist generating unit 57) that generates humidifying mist (mist MS) by atomizing water using ultrasonic vibrations, A supply unit (for example, a duct 61 or a fan 55) that supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit to the sauna room. Equipped with, The system is configured to humidify the air in the sauna room by vaporizing the mist within the sauna room. The humidifying system for a sauna is characterized in that the supply unit supplies the mist to a specific region (for example, a stagnant region RA or a surrounding region SA) which is either the region surrounding the heat source in the sauna room or the region where airflow toward the heat source occurs.

[0068] According to the configuration described in this feature, humidifying mist is supplied to a specific area, which is either the area surrounding the heat source or the area where airflow towards the heat source occurs. The mist supplied to the specific area will immediately vaporize upon contact with the heat source, but vaporization will also progress as it approaches the heat source. With this configuration, the rapid vaporization of the supplied mist can be suppressed, thereby suppressing abrupt changes in humidity. For example, in a sauna, water is sometimes poured directly onto the heat source to vaporize (evaporate) and humidify the room (so-called löyly), but since the water poured onto the heat source vaporizes immediately, a temporal bias in humidity changes can occur. In this respect, the configuration described in this feature can easily mitigate such bias. This is desirable for stabilizing the humidity in the sauna room and improving the relaxation effect of the sauna.

[0069] Furthermore, in a configuration that generates humidifying mist using ultrasonic vibrations, there is no need to heat and boil water, for example, thus avoiding high temperatures in the mist. By supplying mist at a lower temperature, it is possible to prevent the mist from instantly vaporizing immediately after supply, thus increasing the time it takes for the mist to vaporize. Increasing the vaporization time in this way is advantageous in suppressing rapid changes in humidity and stabilizing humidity levels.

[0070] Feature 2. A sauna humidification system (humidification system 15) applied to a sauna room (sauna room 11) in which a heat source (heating unit 12) is installed and the temperature is raised by the heat source, and which humidifies the air in the sauna room, A mist generating unit (mist generating unit 57) that generates humidifying mist (mist MS) by atomizing water using ultrasonic vibrations, A supply unit (for example, a duct 61 or a fan 55) that supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit to the sauna room. Equipped with, The mist supplied by the supply unit is temporarily retained in a specific area (retention area RA) of the sauna room. The heat source is located in the specified region or around the specified region. A sauna humidification system characterized in that, when humidifying the air in the sauna room with the mist, at least a portion of the mist remaining in the specific area is vaporized (evaporated) as it approaches the heat source.

[0071] According to the configuration described in this feature, the heat source is located in or around a specific area to which the humidifying mist is supplied. The mist supplied to the specific area temporarily remains in that area. The remaining mist will immediately vaporize upon contact with the heat source, but at least a portion of it vaporizes as it approaches the heat source. With this configuration, the sudden vaporization of the supplied mist is suppressed, and rapid changes in humidity can be prevented. For example, in a sauna, water is sometimes poured directly onto the heat source to vaporize (evaporate) and humidify the room (so-called löyly), but since the water poured onto the heat source vaporizes immediately, a temporal bias may occur in the change in humidity. In this respect, the configuration described in this feature can easily mitigate such bias. This is desirable for stabilizing the humidity in the sauna room and improving the relaxation effect of the sauna. Furthermore, the configuration that allows the mist to remain is also advantageous in preventing a rapid drop in humidity.

[0072] Furthermore, in a configuration that generates humidifying mist using ultrasonic vibrations, there is no need to heat and boil water, for example, thus avoiding high temperatures in the mist. By supplying mist at a lower temperature, it is possible to prevent the mist from instantly vaporizing immediately after supply, thus increasing the time it takes for the mist to vaporize. Increasing the vaporization time in this way is advantageous in suppressing rapid changes in humidity and stabilizing humidity levels.

[0073] Feature 3. A sauna humidification system (humidification system 15) applied to a sauna room (sauna room 11) in which a heat source (heating unit 12) is installed and the temperature is raised by the heat source, and which humidifies the air in the sauna room, A mist generating unit (mist generating unit 57) that generates humidifying mist (mist MS) by atomizing water using ultrasonic vibrations, A supply unit (for example, a duct 61 or a fan 55) that supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit to the sauna room. Equipped with, The mist supplied by the supply unit is temporarily retained in a specific region (retention region RA) which is a region where airflow toward the heat source unit occurs. A sauna humidification system characterized in that, when humidifying the air in the sauna room with the mist, at least a portion of the mist that is lingering in the specific area is vaporized (evaporated) as it moves toward the heat source due to the airflow.

[0074] According to the configuration described in this feature, the humidifying mist supplied to the sauna room temporarily remains in a specific area where airflow towards the heat source occurs. The remaining mist then immediately vaporizes upon contact with the heat source, but at least a portion of it vaporizes as it approaches the heat source. This configuration suppresses the rapid vaporization of the supplied mist and prevents sudden changes in humidity. For example, in saunas, humidification is sometimes achieved by pouring water directly onto the heat source to vaporize (evaporate) it (so-called löyly), but since the water poured onto the heat source vaporizes immediately, a temporal bias in humidity changes can occur. In this respect, the configuration described in this feature can easily mitigate such biases. This is desirable for stabilizing the humidity in the sauna room and improving the relaxation effect of the sauna. Furthermore, the configuration that retains the mist is also advantageous in suppressing a rapid drop in humidity.

[0075] Furthermore, in a configuration that generates humidifying mist using ultrasonic vibrations, there is no need to heat and boil water, for example, thus avoiding high temperatures in the mist. By supplying mist at a lower temperature, it is possible to prevent the mist from instantly vaporizing immediately after supply, thus increasing the time it takes for the mist to vaporize. Increasing the vaporization time in this way is advantageous in suppressing rapid changes in humidity and stabilizing humidity levels.

[0076] Feature 4. The sauna humidification system according to Feature 2 or Feature 3, wherein the specific region is configured to have a lower temperature than the surrounding area.

[0077] As shown in this feature, by making the specific area to which the humidifying mist is supplied a region with a lower temperature than its surroundings, the vaporization (evaporation) of the mist supplied to that specific area can be delayed. This is preferable for extending the residence period of the mist when the mist is to remain in the specific area, as shown in Feature 2, etc. In realizing such a configuration, it is preferable to avoid the temperature of the mist (humidifying air containing the mist) becoming high. However, as shown in Feature 2, etc., heating is unnecessary in a configuration that generates mist by ultrasonic vibration, which is advantageous in realizing a configuration that suppresses the temperature of the mist (humidifying air containing the mist).

[0078] Feature 5. The supply unit has a supply port (supply port 64) for supplying the mist to the sauna room. The sauna humidification system according to feature 4, characterized in that the supply port is located in or adjacent to the specified area.

[0079] As shown in Feature 4, in a configuration where vaporization is intentionally delayed by suppressing the temperature of the mist supply destination (specific area), there is a concern that the effects shown in Feature 2, etc., may not be properly achieved because the mist discharged from the supply port vaporizes in the process of reaching the specific area. In this regard, as shown in this feature, such concerns can be easily resolved by arranging the supply port in or adjacent to the specific area.

[0080] Feature 6. The supply unit is configured to take in air from an air intake (air intake 62) provided in the sauna room and supply the mist generated in the mist generation unit to the specific area by carrying it on the air. The sauna humidification system according to any one of features 2 to 5, characterized in that the air intake is located in a part of the sauna room where the temperature is lower than the ceiling portion (ceiling portion 22) of the sauna room and the area around the heat source.

[0081] As shown in Feature 2, when retaining humidifying mist in a specific area, it is undesirable for the temperature of the mist (the humidifying air carrying the mist) to be high. This is because it is assumed that the supplied mist will rise with the humidifying air (outside the specific area) and vaporize rapidly. On the other hand, if the temperature of the intake air is low, the amount of mist that can be supplied will also decrease. For these reasons, a practically preferable configuration can be easily realized by placing the air intake away from the high-temperature areas of the sauna room (the ceiling and the area around the heat source), that is, in an area where the temperature is lower than the high-temperature areas.

[0082] Feature 7. The specified area is an area along the floor portion (floor portion 21) of the sauna room, The supply unit has a supply port (supply port 64) for supplying the mist to the sauna room. A sauna humidification system according to any one of features 1 to 6, characterized in that the supply port is located in or around the floor portion.

[0083] The temperature in a sauna room varies depending on the location; for example, the temperature near the floor is lower than the temperature near the ceiling. Therefore, as shown in this feature, by setting a specific area along the floor of the sauna room and arranging the supply port on or around the floor, it is possible to easily realize a configuration in which the humidifying mist (humidified air) supplied to the specific area is temporarily retained in that area. For example, it is good to configure the system so that the humidifying mist is retained in a way that covers the floor.

[0084] Feature 8. The sauna humidification system according to Feature 7, wherein the specific area functions as a passageway for users to move around in the sauna room.

[0085] The configuration that allows humidifying mist to linger in a specific area has the technical significance described above. However, occupying an area within the sauna room to retain the mist can lead to space constraints and hinder improvements in user satisfaction. In this regard, as shown in this feature, utilizing the passageway within the sauna room as the area for mist retention can help alleviate the aforementioned concerns.

[0086] Feature 9. The sauna humidification system according to Feature 7 or Feature 8, wherein the mist supplied to the specific area moves toward the heat source side along the floor portion due to convection generated in the sauna room.

[0087] By using the convection currents within the sauna room to move (guide) the mist towards the heat source, vaporization due to the heat from the heat source is promoted. This makes it less likely for the floor to become excessively wet due to the lingering mist.

[0088] Feature 10 (Direction of the supply port). The supply unit has a supply port (supply port 64) for supplying the mist to the sauna room. A sauna humidification system according to any one of features 1 to 9, characterized in that the supply port is arranged such that the heat source is located at a position off the extension of the supply port.

[0089] The configuration described in this feature prevents the mist supplied to the sauna room through the supply port from moving vigorously towards the heat source. This is preferable for increasing the retention period of the mist, as shown in Feature 2, for example.

[0090] Feature 11 (Independent). A sauna humidification system (humidification system 15) applied to a sauna room (sauna room 11) in which a heat source (heating unit 12) is installed and the temperature is raised by the heat source, and which humidifies the air in the sauna room, A mist generating unit (mist generating unit 57) that generates humidifying mist (mist MS) by atomizing water using ultrasonic vibrations, A supply unit (for example, a duct 61 or a fan 55) that supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit to the sauna room. Equipped with, The system is configured to humidify the air in the sauna room by vaporizing the mist within the sauna room. The temperature on the floor side (floor 21) of the sauna room is lower than the temperature on the ceiling side (ceiling 22). The humidifying system for saunas is characterized in that the supply unit supplies the mist to a specific area (stagnation area RA) which is an area along the floor portion (floor portion 21) of the sauna room.

[0091] According to the configuration described in this feature, humidifying mist is supplied to a specific area along the floor of the sauna room. The mist supplied to this specific area will immediately vaporize upon contact with the heat source, but vaporization will also continue while it is present. This suppresses the rapid vaporization of the supplied mist, thereby preventing sudden changes in humidity. For example, in saunas, humidification is sometimes achieved by pouring water directly onto the heat source to vaporize (evaporate) it (so-called löyly), but since the water poured onto the heat source vaporizes immediately, a temporal bias in humidity changes can occur. In this respect, the configuration described in this feature can easily mitigate such biases. This is desirable for stabilizing the humidity in the sauna room and improving the relaxation effect of the sauna.

[0092] Furthermore, in a configuration that generates humidifying mist using ultrasonic vibrations, there is no need to heat and boil water, for example, thus avoiding high mist temperatures. By supplying mist at a lower temperature, it is possible to prevent the mist from instantly vaporizing immediately after supply, thus increasing the time it takes for the mist to vaporize. Increasing the vaporization time in this way is advantageous in suppressing rapid changes in humidity and stabilizing humidity. In particular, in the configuration described above, the temperature is lower on the floor side than on the ceiling side, and a specific area is set along the floor. This is advantageous in increasing the time it takes for the mist to vaporize.

[0093] Feature 12. The sauna humidification system according to any one of Feature 1 to Feature 11, characterized in that the mist generating unit is a non-heating type generating unit that generates the mist without heating the water.

[0094] The configuration described in this feature makes it less likely for the supplied mist (humidifying air containing the mist) to become hot, which would shorten its residence time. In particular, when a specific area is set near the floor, as shown in Feature 7, the mist can avoid becoming hot, thus reducing the likelihood of the supplied mist hitting the user. This is desirable in terms of improving the flexibility of the supply port placement, that is, in terms of relaxing constraints on the position, orientation, and number of supply ports.

[0095] Feature 13 (Sauna): A sauna equipped with a humidification system as described in any of Feature 1 through Feature 12.

[0096] The sauna described in this feature helps stabilize the humidity in the sauna room, contributing to an improved relaxation effect.

[0097] Feature 14 (Sauna). The sauna according to Feature 13, characterized in that the heat from the heat source installed in the sauna room generates convection within the sauna room, and the mist supplied to the specific area is guided toward the heat source by the convection.

[0098] By using the convection currents (thermal convection) generated in the sauna room to guide the mist lingering in a specific area towards the heat source, it is possible to suppress the mist from not properly vaporizing and adhering to the floor and other surfaces.

[0099] Feature 15 (Humidification Method). A humidification method for humidifying the air in a sauna room (sauna room 11) where a heat source (heating unit 12) is installed and the temperature is raised by the heat source, By using ultrasonic vibrations to atomize water, mist (Mist MS) is generated. The mist is supplied to a specific region (for example, a stagnant region RA or a surrounding region SA) in the sauna room, which is either the region surrounding the heat source or the region where airflow towards the heat source occurs. A humidification method comprising vaporizing (evaporating) the mist supplied to the specified area using the heat from the heat source.

[0100] The humidification method described in this feature helps stabilize the humidity in the sauna room, contributing to an improved relaxation effect in the sauna.

[0101] Feature 16 (Humidification Method). A humidification method for humidifying the air in a sauna room (sauna room 11) where a heat source (heating unit 12) is installed and the temperature is raised by the heat source, By using ultrasonic vibrations to atomize water, mist (Mist MS) is generated. The mist is supplied to a specific region (for example, a stagnant region RA or a surrounding region SA) in the sauna room, which is either the region surrounding the heat source or the region where airflow towards the heat source occurs. A humidification method comprising vaporizing (evaporating) at least a portion of the mist supplied to the specified area by the heat of the heat source while the mist is temporarily lingering in the specified area.

[0102] The humidification method described in this feature helps stabilize the humidity in the sauna room, contributing to an improved relaxation effect in the sauna. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 10...Sauna, 11...Sauna room, 12...Heating unit, 15...Humidification system, 21...Floor, 22...Ceiling, 31...Bench, 32...Lower section, 41...Gas stove, 42...Sauna stones, 51...Spraying device, 54...Transducer, 55...Fan, 56...Control board, 57...Mist generation unit, 61...Duct, 62...Air intake, 63...Air intake piping, 64...Supply port, 65...Supply piping, RA...Accumulation area, SA...Surrounding area, MS...Mist, HA...Humidifying air.

Claims

1. A sauna humidification system applied to a sauna room in which a heat source is installed and which is heated by the heat source, for humidifying the air in the sauna room, A mist generating unit that generates humidifying mist by atomizing water using ultrasonic vibrations, A supply unit that supplies the mist generated by the mist generation unit to the sauna room. Equipped with, The configuration is such that the mist supplied by the supply unit is temporarily retained in a specific area of ​​the sauna room. The heat source unit comprises sauna stones and a stove for heating the sauna stones. The aforementioned specific area is an area along the floor portion of the sauna room, and the heat source is installed in this floor portion. A sauna humidification system characterized in that, when humidifying the air in the sauna room with the mist, at least a portion of the mist remaining in the specific area is vaporized by the heat of the heat source.

2. A sauna equipped with the humidification system described in claim 1.

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