Blower

Abstract

To provide a blowing apparatus capable of suppressing the occurrence of half-dry odor.SOLUTION: The blowing apparatus includes: a humidifying part including a fan for blowing wind, and a humidifying filter for passing air sent by the wind to humidify the air; and a control part for, when the blowing apparatus which can perform an operation intended for humidification or an operation not intended for humidification performs the operation not intended for humidification, switching the humidifying part between a first state and a second state different from the first state, depending on whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a blower device.

Background Art

[0002] In a humidifying device, the air may be humidified by supplying water to a humidifying filter through which the air passes.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a humidifying air cleaner. In the humidifying air cleaner, an exhaust path connecting the blower outlet side to the exhaust port of the main body case and an exhaust path connecting the blower outlet side to the exhaust port of the main body case via a humidifier are formed. Further, a closing plate is provided for selectively closing the former exhaust path and the latter exhaust path. Thereby, odor suppression can be achieved (abstract).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004] <0,000,019>

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Immediately after purchasing a humidifying device, cleaning a humidifying filter, etc., even if the water supplied to the humidifying filter runs out, no musty odor will occur in the air passing through the humidifying filter. However, when the humidifying device has been used for about one month since purchasing the humidifying device, cleaning the humidifying filter, etc., when the water supplied to the humidifying filter runs out, a musty odor will occur in the air passing through the humidifying filter.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of this problem. An aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide, for example, a blower device capable of suppressing the occurrence of a musty odor.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] One embodiment of the blower device of the present disclosure includes a humidifying unit comprising a fan that blows air and a humidifying filter that humidifies the air by passing the air blown by the air, and a control unit that can perform operation for the purpose of humidification or operation for the purpose of humidification, and when the blower device is performing operation for the purpose of humidification, it can switch the state of the humidifying unit between a first state and a second state different from the first state, depending on whether the humidifying filter is dirty or not. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view illustrating the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram of the control system provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates the switching of the state of the humidifying unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This graph shows an example of the time-dependent change in the airflow volume of the air blown by the fan provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This graph shows the time change in the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the air purifier is operating in a constant humidification mode for the purpose of humidification. [Figure 8] This graph shows the time change in the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the air purifier is operating in intermittent humidification mode for the purpose of humidification. [Figure 9] This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the state of the humidifying unit in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier stops. [Figure 10]This graph shows the time change of the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the air purifier is operated for purposes other than humidification and the state of the humidifying unit provided in the air purifier is set to the first state. [Figure 11] This graph shows the time change of the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier provided in the first embodiment when the air purifier is operated for purposes other than humidification and the state of the humidifying unit provided in the air purifier is set to the second state. [Figure 12] This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the state of the humidifying unit in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier stops. [Figure 13] This graph shows the time change of the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier provided in the first embodiment when the air purifier is operated for purposes other than humidification and the state of the humidifying unit provided in the air purifier is set to the second state. [Figure 14] This flowchart shows the process flow for determining the operation to be performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] This flowchart shows the flow of the process for determining the state of the humidifying unit, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] This flowchart shows the process flow for issuing a notification prompting the addition of water, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] This flowchart shows a first example of the process flow for determining whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 18] This flowchart shows a second example of the process flow for determining whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] This flowchart shows a third example of the process flow for determining whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] This is a flowchart showing a fourth example of the process flow for determining whether a humidifying filter is dirty, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air cleaner of the first embodiment. [Figure 21] This is a flowchart showing a fifth example of the process flow for determining whether a humidifying filter is dirty, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air cleaner of the first embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Regarding the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations are omitted.

[0010] 1 First Embodiment 1.1 Air Cleaner FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing the air cleaner of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the air cleaner of the first embodiment.

[0011] The air cleaner 1 of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 blows air. The air cleaner 1 has an air cleaning function of cleaning the air flowing by the blown air to clean the surrounding air and a humidifying function of humidifying the air flowing by the blown air to humidify the surrounding air. Therefore, the air cleaner 1 is a blower device having an air cleaning function and a humidifying function.

[0012] The air cleaner 1 performs an operation for the purpose of humidification or an operation not for the purpose of humidification. When the air cleaner 1 performs an operation for the purpose of humidification, it exhibits a humidifying power capable of making the humidity difference between the humidity of the surrounding air and the set humidity equal to or less than the set humidity difference. When the air cleaner 1 performs an operation not for the purpose of humidification, it does not exhibit any humidifying power or does not exhibit a humidifying power capable of making the humidity difference equal to or less than the set humidity difference.

[0013] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the air purifier 1 has an intake port 11 and an outlet port 12.

[0014] Air purifier 1 draws in air from the intake port 11, purifies the air it draws in, humidifies the purified air, and blows out the humidified air from the outlet port 12.

[0015] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the air purifier 1 comprises a housing 21, a rear panel 22, a deodorizing filter 23, a dust collection filter 24, and a humidifying unit 25.

[0016] The housing 21 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 21 is placed on the floor so that its lower surface 21A is in contact with the floor. An intake port 11 is formed on the rear surface 21B of the housing 21. An outlet port 12 is formed on the upper surface 21C of the housing 21. An air passage 21D is formed inside the housing 21. The air passage 21D goes from the intake port 11 to the outlet port 12, guiding air from the intake port 11 to the outlet port 12. The air passage 21D includes a storage space 21E. The storage space 21E is formed along the intake port 11.

[0017] The rear panel 22 has a plate-like shape. The rear panel 22 can be attached to and detached from the air outlet 12. Multiple holes 22A are formed in the rear panel 22. The holes 22A penetrate the rear panel 22 in the thickness direction. The holes 22A allow the air drawn into the intake port 11 to pass through.

[0018] The deodorizing filter 23 has a plate-like shape. The deodorizing filter 23 is housed in the storage space 21E. The deodorizing filter 23 passes air flowing through the air passage 21D and removes odor components contained in the air that passes through. The odor components to be removed include acetaldehyde, ammonia, acetic acid, etc.

[0019] The dust collection filter 24 has a plate-like shape. The dust collection filter 24 is housed in the storage space 21E. The dust collection filter 24 passes air flowing through the air passage 21D and removes dust contained in the air passing through.

[0020] The humidifying unit 25 is located within the air passage 21D. The humidifying unit 25 blows air, and the air blown humidifies the air flowing through the air passage 21D.

[0021] 1.2 Humidification section As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the humidification unit 25 includes a fan 31, a supply unit 32, and a humidification rotor 33.

[0022] Fan 31 blows air.

[0023] The supply unit 32 supplies water 41 to the humidifying rotor 33.

[0024] The humidifying rotor 33 passes air flowing through the air passage 21D and humidifies the air with the supplied water 41. The lower part of the humidifying rotor 33 is placed in a tray 51 provided in the supply unit 32. As a result, the lower part of the humidifying rotor 33 is immersed in the water 41 stored in the tray 51. As a result, the lower part of the humidifying rotor 33 absorbs the stored water 41. The upper part of the humidifying rotor 33 is placed in the air passage 21D, so that the upper part of the humidifying rotor 33 passes air flowing through the air passage 21D.

[0025] 1.3 Supply section As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the supply unit 32 includes a tray 51 and a rotating unit 52.

[0026] Tray 51 holds water 41.

[0027] The rotating part 52 rotates the humidifying rotor 33. As a result, the lower part of the humidifying rotor 33 that has absorbed water 41 becomes the upper part of the humidifying rotor 33 that passes the air flowing through the air passage 21D. This allows the humidifying unit 25 to humidify the air by bringing it into contact with the water 41.

[0028] As shown in Figure 2, the rotating part 52 includes a motor 61 and a gear 62.

[0029] The motor 61 rotates the gear 62.

[0030] The gear 62 meshes with the teeth 101 provided on the outer circumferential surface 91B of the humidifying rotor 33. When the gear 62 is rotated, it rotates the humidifying rotor 33.

[0031] These components cause the rotating part 52 to rotate the humidifying rotor 33. The motor 61 may directly rotate the humidifying rotor 33. The motor 61 may rotate the humidifying rotor 33 via a transmission mechanism other than the gear 62. For example, the motor 61 may rotate the humidifying rotor 33 via a pulley and belt.

[0032] The supply unit 32 may have a structure different from the one described above. For example, the supply unit 32 may be equipped with a pump that draws up water 41 and supplies the drawn-up water 41 toward the humidifying rotor 33.

[0033] 1.4 Humidifying Rotor Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0034] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the humidifying rotor 33 includes a humidifying filter 71 and a filter frame 72.

[0035] The humidifying filter 71 allows air flowing through the air passage 21D to pass through, and humidifies the air with water 41 supplied by the supply unit 32.

[0036] The humidifying filter 71 has a planar shape with a contour consisting of an arc and a straight line connecting the two ends of the arc. If the portion of the humidifying filter 71 that forms the straight line is located near the bottom, it is not immersed in the water 41 and is not moistened by the water 41. If the portion of the humidifying filter 71 is located anywhere other than near the bottom, it is immersed in the water 41 and moistened by the water 41. The humidifying filter 71 is made of a material that can permeate the water 41, for example, a fiber aggregate, preferably a nonwoven fabric.

[0037] The humidifying filter 71 is a pleated filter. Therefore, the humidifying filter 71 has a sheet-like shape with multiple folds 81. The multiple folds 81 extend in the same direction. The humidifying filter 71 is bent at each fold 81. The bending directions at two adjacent folds 81 are opposite to each other. As a result, the humidifying filter 71 has a zigzag side shape.

[0038] The filter frame 72 holds the humidifying filter 71.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the filter frame 72 comprises a cylindrical portion 91, a plate-shaped portion 92, an annular portion 93, and a plurality of rod-shaped portions 94.

[0040] The cylindrical portion 91 has a cylindrical shape. A housing space 91A is formed in the cylindrical portion 91. As shown in Figure 3, the cylindrical portion 91 is provided with a plurality of teeth 101. The plurality of teeth 101 are arranged on the outer circumferential surface 91B of the cylindrical portion 91. The plurality of teeth 101 are uniformly arranged in the circumferential direction of the humidifying rotor 33.

[0041] The plate-like portion 92 has a plate-like shape. The plate-like portion 92 has a planar shape with a contour consisting of an arc and a straight line connecting both ends of the arc. The plate-like portion 92 is positioned radially inward of the cylindrical portion 91. The portion of the plate-like portion 92 that forms the arc is connected to the axial end of the cylindrical portion 91. As a result, the plate-like portion 92 blocks a part of the opening surrounded by the axial end of the cylindrical portion 91, preventing water 41 from entering the containment space 91A when placed in the tray 51.

[0042] The annular portion 93 has an annular shape. The annular portion 93 is positioned radially inward of the cylindrical portion 91 and the plate-shaped portion 92.

[0043] Each rod-shaped portion 94 extends radially to the humidifying rotor 33. One end of each rod-shaped portion 94 is connected to the axial end of the cylindrical portion 91 or to the portion forming the straight line of the plate-shaped portion 92. The other end of each rod-shaped portion 94 is connected to the annular portion 93. The multiple rod-shaped portions 94 are evenly arranged in the circumferential direction of the humidifying rotor 33.

[0044] 1.5 Control System Figure 4 is a block diagram of the control system provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0045] As shown in Figure 4, the air purifier 1 includes a water level sensor 111, a humidity sensor 112, a damp odor sensor 113, an operation unit 114, a control unit 115, and a notification unit 116.

[0046] The water level sensor 111 detects the water level 121 of the water 41 stored in the tray 51. The water level sensor 111 can also detect whether the water level 121 is 0 or not, that is, whether or not water 41 is stored in the tray 51. Therefore, the water level sensor 111 also functions as a detection unit that detects whether or not water 41 is stored in the tray 51. The presence or absence of water 41 in the tray 51 may also be detected by a float.

[0047] The humidity sensor 112 detects the humidity 122 of the air surrounding the air purifier 1.

[0048] The damp odor sensor 113 detects the intensity 123 of the damp odor in the air blown out by the air purifier 1. The damp odor sensor 113 detects the intensity 123 of the damp odor by, for example, detecting the amount of components that cause the damp odor contained in the air.

[0049] The control unit 114 receives humidification start operation 141 and humidification end operation 142 performed by the user 131. Humidification start operation 141 and humidification end operation 142 are operations that instruct the start and end of humidification operation, respectively. Humidification operation is an operation to reduce the humidity difference between the humidity of the air surrounding the air purifier 1 and the set humidity to a set humidity difference or less. The control unit 114 is composed of buttons, dials, sliders, touch panels, touch pads, etc.

[0050] The notification unit 116 provides notification. The notification unit 116 consists of a display, lamps, speaker, buzzer, vibrator, etc.

[0051] The control unit 115 acquires the water level 121, humidity 122, the intensity of the damp odor 123, and whether or not the humidification start operation 141 and humidification end operation 142 have been received, and controls the humidification unit 25 and the notification unit 116 based on the acquired information. The control unit 115 is composed of a microcontroller, peripheral circuits, etc. The microcontroller includes a processor and memory. The processor executes a control program stored in memory, thereby causing the microcontroller and peripheral circuits to operate as the control unit 115 that controls the humidification unit 25 and the notification unit 116. All or part of the control unit 115 may be composed of dedicated circuits.

[0052] 1.6 Control by the Control Unit When the air purifier 1 is in operation, the control unit 115 causes the fan 31 to blow air. This generates an airflow from the intake port 11 through the deodorizing filter 23, dust collection filter 24, and humidifying filter 71 to the outlet port 12. The deodorizing filter 23 and dust collection filter 24 purify the air that passes through them. As a result, the air purifier 1 blows out the purified air from the outlet port 12.

[0053] When the control unit 115 performs a humidification operation while the air purifier 1 is running, it causes the fan 31 to blow air while supplying water 41 to the humidification filter 71 via the supply unit 32. As a result, the humidification filter 71 humidifies the air passing through it with the supplied water 41. Consequently, the air purifier 1 blows out purified and humidified air from the outlet 12.

[0054] When the air purifier 1 is operating and not intended for humidification, the control unit 115 directs the fan 31 to blow air, and either does not supply water 41 to the humidifying filter 71 from the supply unit 32, or supplies a small amount of water 41 to the humidifying filter 71. As a result, the air purifier 1 blows out purified but unhumidified air from the outlet 12.

[0055] 1.7 Switching the humidification unit's state when operating for purposes other than humidification. Figure 5 illustrates the switching of the state of the humidifying unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0056] As shown in Figure 5, when the air purifier 1 is operating for purposes other than humidification, the control unit 115 switches the state of the humidification unit 25 between a first state 151 and a second state 152, depending on whether the humidification filter 71 is dirty or not. If the humidification filter 71 is not dirty and there is a low possibility that the humidification filter 71 will produce a musty odor, the control unit 115 sets the state of the humidification unit 25 to the first state 151. If the humidification filter 71 is dirty and there is a high possibility that the humidification filter 71 will produce a musty odor, the control unit 115 sets the state of the humidification unit 25 to a second state 152, which is different from the first state 151.

[0057] The first state 151 is a state in which the humidifying filter 71 does not perform any operation to suppress the generation of a musty odor, for example, state 161 in which the supply unit 32 does not supply water 41 to the humidifying filter 71.

[0058] The second state 152 is the state in which the operation is performed, for example, state 162 in which the supply unit 32 supplies a small amount of water 41 to the humidifying filter 71. The small amount of water 41 supplied to the humidifying filter 71 is not enough for the humidifying filter 71 to humidify the air. However, the water 41 suppresses the generation of a musty odor by the humidifying filter 71.

[0059] The control unit 115 causes the fan 31 to blow air regardless of whether the air purifier 1 is operating for the purpose of humidification or not. The control unit 115 causes the fan 31 to blow air regardless of whether the humidification unit 25 is in the first state 151 or the second state 152. The control unit 115 may set the airflow rate when the humidification unit 25 is in the second state 152 to be weaker than the airflow rate when the humidification unit 25 is in the first state 151. The control unit 115 may stop the fan 31 from blowing air when the stored water 41 is depleted while the humidification unit 25 is in the second state 152.

[0060] In a blower that does not have an air purification function but has a humidifying function, the state of the humidifying unit 25 described above may be switched.

[0061] Figure 6 is a graph showing an example of the time change in the airflow rate delivered by the fan provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0062] As shown in Figure 6, during the period prior to the first time when it is determined that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty, the control unit 115 causes the fan 31 to blow air at a first airflow rate, both during the water-filled period when there is water 41 stored in the tray 51 and during the water-free period when there is no water 41 stored in the tray 51.

[0063] Furthermore, during the period after the first time and before the second time when the humidifying filter 71 is cleaned, the control unit 115 will cause the fan 31 to blow air at a first airflow rate during the water-filled period, and to blow air at a second airflow rate weaker than the first airflow rate during the water-free period. The second airflow rate may be 0.

[0064] 1.8 Rotation of the humidifier rotor when operation is performed for the purpose of humidification. Air purifier 1 can perform humidification operations. Humidification operations include a continuous humidification mode in which humidification is performed at all times and / or an intermittent humidification mode in which humidification is performed intermittently.

[0065] Figure 7 is a graph showing the time change of the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the air purifier is operating in a constant humidification mode for the purpose of humidification.

[0066] As shown in Figure 7, when the air purifier 1 is operating in constant humidification mode for the purpose of humidification, the control unit 115 rotates the humidifying rotor 33 at a first rotational speed R1 using the rotating unit 52. As a result, the humidifying filter 71 is repeatedly immersed in the water 41 stored in the tray 51. This causes the water 41 to permeate the humidifying filter 71. In addition, the air passing through the humidifying filter 71 is humidified by the permeated water 41.

[0067] Figure 8 is a graph showing the time change of the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the air purifier is operating in intermittent humidification mode for the purpose of humidification.

[0068] As shown in Figure 8, when the air purifier 1 is operating in intermittent humidification mode for the purpose of humidification, the control unit 115 causes the rotating unit 52 to alternately rotate the humidification rotor 33 at a first rotational speed R1 and stop.

[0069] When the humidifying rotor 33 is set to rotate at a first rotational speed R1, it is repeatedly immersed in the water 41 stored in the tray 51. This causes the water 41 to permeate the humidifying filter 71. In addition, the air passing through the humidifying filter 71 is humidified by the permeated water 41.

[0070] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the state of the humidifying unit in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier stops.

[0071] As shown in Figure 9, the humidifying rotor 33 stops at a position where the humidifying filter 71 is not immersed in the water 41 stored in the tray 51. This prevents the water 41 from permeating the humidifying filter 71. In addition, the air passing through the humidifying filter 71 is not humidified.

[0072] 1.9 Rotation of the humidifier rotor when operation is not for the purpose of humidification. The air purifier 1 can be operated in a mode that does not involve humidification. When the air purifier 1 is operating in a mode that does not involve humidification, the state of the humidification unit 25 is set to either the first state 151 or the second state 152.

[0073] Figure 10 is a graph showing the time change of the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the air purifier is operated for purposes other than humidification and the state of the humidifying unit provided in the air purifier is set to the first state.

[0074] As shown in Figure 10, when the air purifier 1 is operated for purposes other than humidification and the humidification unit 25 is put into the first state 151, the control unit 115 instructs the rotating unit 52 to stop the humidification rotor 33.

[0075] As shown in Figure 9, the humidifying rotor 33 stops in a position where the humidifying filter 71 is not immersed in the water 41 stored in the tray 51. As a result, the water 41 does not permeate the humidifying filter 71. In addition, the air passing through the humidifying filter 71 is not humidified.

[0076] Figure 11 is a graph showing the time change of the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the air purifier is operated for purposes other than humidification and the state of the humidifying unit provided in the air purifier is set to the second state.

[0077] Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the state of the humidifying unit in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier stops.

[0078] As shown in Figure 11, when the air purifier 1 is operated for purposes other than humidification and the humidification unit 25 is put into the second state 152, the control unit 115 causes the rotating unit 52 to alternately rotate the humidification rotor 33 at a second rotation speed R2, which is slower than the first rotation speed R1 described above, and to stop. When the humidification rotor 33 is in the rotating state, the humidification filter 71 is immersed in the water 41 stored in the tray 51. As a result, the water 41 permeates the humidification filter 71. In addition, the air passing through the humidification filter 71 is humidified by the permeated water 41. When the humidification rotor 33 is in the stopped state, it may stop in a position where the humidification filter 71 is not immersed in the water 41, as shown in Figure 9, or it may stop in a position where the humidification filter 71 is immersed in the water 41, as shown in Figure 12. The control unit 115, for example, sets the humidification rotor 33 to rotate at a frequency of once every set time. The set time is, for example, 30 minutes.

[0079] Figure 13 is a graph showing the time change of the rotation speed of the humidifying rotor provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment when the air purifier is operated for purposes other than humidification and the state of the humidifying unit provided in the air purifier is set to the second state.

[0080] As shown in Figure 13, the control unit 115 may instruct the rotating unit 52 to stop the humidifying rotor 33 when the air purifier 1 is operating for purposes other than humidification and the humidifying unit 25 is in the second state 152. The humidifying rotor 33 is stopped in a position where the humidifying filter 71 is immersed in the water 41, as shown in Figure 12.

[0081] When the humidifying rotor 33 stops at a position where the humidifying filter 71 is immersed in water 41, the fold 81 of the humidifying filter 71 intersects with the water surface 41A of the water 41, preferably at an angle of 80° to 100°, and more preferably at an angle of 90°. By the fold 81 intersecting with the water surface 41A of the water 41 at an angle of 80° to 100°, the water 41 permeates almost parallel to the fold 81 of the humidifying filter 71 as it permeates upward. This shortens the distance the water 41 must travel as it permeates upward. This allows the water 41 to permeate the humidifying filter 71 more quickly.

[0082] When the air purifier 1 is operated for purposes other than humidification and the humidifying unit 25 is in the second state 152, the second frequency at which the humidifying rotor 33 rotates is lower than the first frequency at which the humidifying rotor 33 rotates when the air purifier 1 is operated for purposes of humidification. Also, in the former case, the second rotational speed R2 of the humidifying rotor 33 is slower than the first rotational speed R1 of the humidifying rotor 33 in the latter case. Therefore, when the air purifier 1 is operated for purposes other than humidification and the humidifying unit 25 is in the second state 152, the operating noise emitted by the humidifying unit 25 can be reduced. This improves the quietness of the air purifier 1.

[0083] Furthermore, when the air purifier 1 is operated without the purpose of humidification and the humidifying unit 25 is in the second state 152, the amount of water 41 absorbed by the humidifying filter 71 is less than the amount of water 41 absorbed by the humidifying filter 71 when the air purifier 1 is operated with the purpose of humidification, but it is not zero. Therefore, the humidifying power of the humidifying unit 25 in the former case is lower than the humidifying power of the humidifying unit 25 in the latter case, but it is not zero. As a result, when the air purifier 1 is operated without the purpose of humidification and the humidifying unit 25 is in the second state 152, it is possible to continue weak humidification while reducing the noise emitted by the humidifying unit 25.

[0084] 1.10 Determining the operation mode to be performed by the air purifier Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the process flow for determining the operation to be performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0085] When the control unit 115 decides what operation to have the air purifier 1 perform, it executes steps S101 to S107 shown in Figure 14.

[0086] In step S101, the control unit 115 determines whether or not the humidification operation start operation 141 has been received by the operation unit 114. If it is determined that the humidification operation start operation 141 has been received, step S102 is executed. If it is determined that the humidification operation start operation 141 has not been received, step S103 is executed.

[0087] In step S102, the control unit 115 determines whether or not the humidification operation termination operation 142 has been received by the operation unit 114. If it is determined that the humidification operation termination operation 142 has been received, step S104 is executed. If it is determined that the humidification operation termination operation 142 has not been received, step S105 is executed.

[0088] In step S103, the control unit 115 causes the air purifier 1 to operate in a manner that does not involve humidification.

[0089] In step S104, the control unit 115 causes the air purifier 1 to operate in a manner that does not involve humidification.

[0090] After step S104 is executed, step S101 is executed again.

[0091] In steps S101 to S104, the control unit 115 causes the air purifier 1 to perform an operation not for humidification purposes before the humidification start operation 141 is received and after the humidification end operation 142 is received. Also, after the humidification start operation 141 is received but before the humidification end operation 142 is received, the air purifier 1 is caused to perform an operation for humidification purposes or an operation not for humidification purposes in accordance with steps S105 to S107.

[0092] In step S105, the control unit 115 acquires the humidity 122 detected by the humidity sensor 112 and determines whether the humidity difference between the acquired humidity 122 and the set humidity is less than or equal to the set humidity difference. If it is determined that the humidity difference is less than or equal to the set humidity difference, step S106 is executed. If it is determined that the humidity difference is not less than or equal to the set humidity difference, step S107 is executed.

[0093] In step S106, the control unit 115 causes the air purifier 1 to operate in a mode that does not involve humidification.

[0094] In step S107, the control unit 115 causes the air purifier 1 to perform an operation for the purpose of humidification.

[0095] In steps S105 to S107, after the humidification operation start operation 141 is received but before the humidification operation end operation 142 is received, the control unit 115 causes the air purifier 1 to operate without humidification if the humidity difference between the detected humidity 122 and the set humidity is less than or equal to the set humidity difference, and causes the air purifier 1 to operate with the purpose of humidification if the humidity difference is not less than or equal to the set humidity difference. As a result, the air purifier 1 operates without humidification when the humidity difference is less than or equal to the set humidity difference and there is little need to humidify, and operates with the purpose of humidification when the humidity difference is not less than or equal to the set humidity difference and there is a high need to humidify.

[0096] 1.11 Determining the condition of the humidification unit Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the process for determining the state of the humidifying unit, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0097] When the control unit 115 determines the state of the humidification unit 25, it executes steps S111 to S114 shown in Figure 15.

[0098] In step S111, the control unit 115 determines whether the humidifying filter 71 is dirty or not. If it is determined that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty, step S112 is executed. If it is determined that the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty, step S114 is executed.

[0099] In step S112, the control unit 115 sets the state of the humidification unit 25 to the second state 152.

[0100] In step S113, following step S112, the control unit 115 causes the notification unit 116 to issue a notification indicating that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty.

[0101] In step S114, the control unit 115 sets the state of the humidification unit 25 to the first state 151.

[0102] After step S113 or S114 is executed, step S111 is executed again.

[0103] In steps S111 to S114, the control unit 115 sets the state of the humidification unit 25 to the first state 151 if the humidification filter 71 is not dirty when the air purifier 1 is operating for a purpose other than humidification. If the humidification filter 71 is dirty when the air purifier 1 is operating for a purpose other than humidification, the control unit 115 sets the state of the humidification unit 25 to the second state 152 and causes the notification unit 116 to issue a notification that the humidification filter 71 is dirty.

[0104] 1.12 Notification prompting the addition of water Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the process flow for issuing a notification prompting the addition of water, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0105] When the control unit 115 prompts the addition of water 41, it executes steps S121 to S125 shown in Figure 16.

[0106] In step S121, the control unit 115 determines whether the humidifying filter 71 is dirty or not. If it is determined that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty, step S122 is executed. If it is determined that the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty, step S123 is executed.

[0107] In step S122, the control unit 115 sets the reference water level to a second water level. The second water level set is a water level higher than the first water level described below.

[0108] In step S123, the control unit 115 sets the reference water level to the first water level.

[0109] In step S124, following step S122 or S123, the control unit 115 acquires the water level 121 detected by the water level sensor 111 and determines whether the acquired water level 121 is below the reference water level. If it is determined that the water level 121 is below the reference water level, step S125 is executed. If it is determined that the water level 121 is not below the reference water level, step S121 is executed again.

[0110] In step S125, the control unit 115 causes the notification unit 116 to issue a notification prompting the addition of water 41.

[0111] In steps S121 to S125, if the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty, the control unit 115 causes the notification unit 116 to issue a notification prompting the addition of water 41 when the detected water level 121 falls below the first water level 121. On the other hand, if the humidifying filter 71 is dirty, the control unit 115 causes the notification unit 116 to issue the notification when the water level 121 rises to a second water level higher than the first water level. This makes it possible to make the timing of the notification when the humidifying filter 71 is dirty earlier than the timing of the notification when the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty. This makes it possible to prevent a shortage of water 41 from being supplied to the humidifying filter 71. This makes it possible to prevent the humidifying filter 71 from generating a musty odor. The first water level may be 0, and the second water level may be a water level greater than 0. In this case, if the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty, the notification will be issued in conjunction with the depletion of water 41. Also, if the humidifying filter 71 is dirty, the notification will be issued before the water 41 runs out.

[0112] The water level acquired by the control unit 115 may be a water level other than the water level 121 detected by the water level sensor 111. For example, the water level acquired by the control unit 115 may be a water level calculated from the humidification time performed by the air purifier 1, or a water level estimated from the amount of humidification performed by the air purifier 1.

[0113] 1.13 Determining whether the humidifier filter is dirty or not Figure 17 is a flowchart showing a first example of the process flow for determining whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0114] In this first example, the control unit 115 performs steps S131 to S133 shown in Figure 17.

[0115] In step S131, the control unit 115 determines whether the water storage time detected by the water level sensor 111 after the humidifying filter 71 was attached to the air purifier 1 is equal to or greater than the set time. If it is determined that the water storage time is equal to or greater than the set time, step S132 is executed. If it is determined that the water storage time is not equal to or greater than the set time, step S133 is executed. The period after the humidifying filter 71 is attached to the air purifier 1 is the period after the cleaned humidifying filter 71 is reattached to the air purifier 1, when the humidifying filter 71 that was attached to the air purifier 1 is removed from the air purifier 1, the removed humidifying filter 71 is cleaned, and the cleaned humidifying filter 71 is reattached to the air purifier 1. Alternatively, the period after the humidifying filter 71 is attached to the air purifier 1 is the period after a new air purifier 1 is purchased.

[0116] In step S132, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty.

[0117] In step S133, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty.

[0118] In steps S131 to S133, the control unit 115 determines whether the humidifying filter 71 is dirty based on the water storage time, and determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty if the water storage time is long and there is a high possibility that the humidifying filter 71 will produce a musty odor.

[0119] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing a second example of the process flow for determining whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty, as performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0120] In this second example, the control unit 115 performs steps S141 to S143 shown in Figure 18.

[0121] In step S141, the control unit 115 determines whether the humidification time performed by the air purifier 1 is equal to or greater than the set time. If it is determined that the humidification time is equal to or greater than the set time, step S142 is executed. If it is determined that the humidification time is not equal to or greater than the set time, step S143 is executed.

[0122] In step S142, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty.

[0123] In step S143, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty.

[0124] In steps S141 to S143, the control unit 115 determines whether the humidifying filter 71 is dirty based on the humidification time, and determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty if the humidification time is long and there is a high possibility that the humidifying filter 71 will produce a musty odor.

[0125] Figure 19 is a flowchart showing a third example of the process flow for determining whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty, as performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0126] In this third example, the control unit 115 performs steps S151 to S153 shown in Figure 19.

[0127] In step S151, the control unit 115 determines whether the amount of humidification performed by the air purifier 1 is equal to or greater than the set amount. If it is determined that the amount of humidification is equal to or greater than the set amount, step S152 is executed. If it is determined that the amount of humidification is not equal to or greater than the set amount, step S153 is executed.

[0128] In step S152, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty.

[0129] In step S153, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty.

[0130] In steps S151 to S153, the control unit 115 determines whether the humidifying filter 71 is dirty based on the amount of humidification, and determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty if the amount of humidification is high and there is a high possibility that the humidifying filter 71 will produce a musty smell.

[0131] Figure 20 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of the process flow for determining whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0132] In this fourth example, the control unit 115 performs steps S161 to S163 shown in Figure 20.

[0133] In step S161, the control unit 115 acquires the humidifying power of the air purifier 1 and determines whether the acquired humidifying power is above a standard. If it is determined that the humidifying power is above a standard, step S162 is executed. If it is determined that the humidifying power is not above a standard, step S163 is executed. For example, when the air purifier 1 is operating for the purpose of humidification, the control unit 115 acquires the humidifying power of the air purifier 1 from the increase in humidity 122 detected by the humidity sensor 112. The acquired humidifying power increases as the increase in humidity 122 increases.

[0134] In step S162, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty.

[0135] In step S163, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty.

[0136] In steps S161 to S163, the control unit 115 determines whether the humidifying filter 71 is dirty based on the humidifying power, and determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty if the humidifying power decreases and there is a high possibility that the humidifying filter 71 will produce a musty smell.

[0137] Figure 21 is a flowchart showing a fifth example of the process flow for determining whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty, which is performed by the control unit provided in the air purifier of the first embodiment.

[0138] In this fifth example, the control unit 115 performs steps S171 to S173 shown in Figure 21.

[0139] In step S171, the control unit 115 acquires the strength 123 of the damp odor detected by the damp odor sensor 113 and determines whether the acquired damp odor strength 123 is equal to or greater than the set strength. If it is determined that the damp odor strength 123 is equal to or greater than the set strength, step S172 is executed. If it is determined that the damp odor strength 123 is not equal to or greater than the set strength, step S173 is executed.

[0140] In step S172, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty.

[0141] In step S153, the control unit 115 determines that the humidifying filter 71 is not dirty.

[0142] In steps S171 to S173, the control unit 115 determines whether the humidifying filter 71 is dirty based on the detected strength 123 of the damp odor, and determines that the humidifying filter 71 is dirty if the strength 123 of the damp odor increases and there is a high possibility that the humidifying filter 71 is generating the damp odor.

[0143] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and may be replaced with configurations that are substantially the same as those shown in the embodiments, configurations that produce the same effects, or configurations that can achieve the same purpose. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0144] 1 Air purifier, 11 Intake port, 12 Outlet port, 21 Housing, 21A Bottom, 21B Rear, 21C Top, 21D Air passage, 21E Storage space, 22 Rear panel, 22A Hole, 23 Deodorizing filter, 24 Dust collection filter, 25 Humidifying unit, 31 Fan, 32 Supply unit, 33 Humidifying rotor, 41 Water, 41A Water level, 51 Tray, 52 Rotating part, 61 Motor, 62 Gear, 71 Humidifying filter, 72 Filter frame, 81 Fold, 91 Cylindrical part, 91A Storage space, 91B Outer surface, 92 Plate-shaped part, 93 Annular part, 94 Rod-shaped part, 101 Teeth, 111 Water level sensor, 112 Humidity sensor, 113 Damp odor sensor, 114 Operation unit, 115 Control unit, 116 Notification unit, 121 Water level, 122 Humidity, 123 Intensity of damp odor, 131 User, 141 Humidification operation start operation, 142 Humidification operation end operation, 151 First state, 152 Second state, 161 State where water is not supplied to the humidification filter, 162 State where a small amount of water is supplied to the humidification filter.

Claims

1. A humidifying unit comprising a fan that blows air, and a humidifying filter that humidifies the air by passing the air blown by the air, A blower capable of operating for the purpose of humidification or not for the purpose of humidification includes a control unit that, when operating for the purpose of not humidification, can switch the state of the humidification unit between a first state and a second state different from the first state, depending on whether the humidification filter is dirty or not. Equipped with, The humidifying unit includes a supply unit that supplies water to the humidifying filter. The first state is a state in which the water is not supplied to the supply unit. The second state is a state in which the supply unit is supplied with an amount of water that is not sufficient for the humidifying filter to humidify the air. Blower.

2. The amount by which the humidifying filter is not sufficient to humidify the air is: During the operation for the purpose of humidification, the amount supplied by the supply unit is less than the amount of water supplied to the humidifying filter. The blower according to claim 1.

3. The humidifying unit includes a humidifying rotor equipped with the humidifying filter, The supply unit comprises a tray for storing the water and a rotating unit for rotating the humidifying rotor. The first state is a state in which the rotating part stops the humidifying rotor in a position where the humidifying filter is not immersed in the water. The second state is a state in which the rotating part rotates the humidifying rotor so that the humidifying filter is immersed in the water. The blower according to claim 2.

4. When the blower is operating for the purpose of humidification, the control unit rotates the humidifying rotor at a first frequency to immerse the humidifying filter in the water. The second state is a state in which the rotating part rotates the humidifying rotor at a second frequency lower than the first frequency. The blower according to claim 3.

5. The humidifying unit includes a humidifying rotor equipped with the humidifying filter, The supply unit comprises a tray for storing the water and a rotating unit for rotating the humidifying rotor. The first state is a state in which the rotating part stops the humidifying rotor in a position where the humidifying filter is not immersed in the water. The second state is a state in which the rotating part stops the humidifying rotor at a position in which the humidifying filter is immersed in the water. The blower according to claim 2.

6. Equipped with a news department, The humidifying unit includes a tray for storing water supplied to the humidifying filter, The control unit acquires the water level, and if the humidifying filter is not dirty, it causes the notification unit to issue a notification prompting the addition of water when the water level falls below a first water level, and if the humidifying filter is dirty, it causes the notification unit to issue the notification when the water level falls below a second water level that is higher than the first water level. The blower according to claim 1.

7. Equipped with a news department, When the blower is operating in a manner not intended for humidification, the control unit causes the notification unit to issue a notification indicating that the humidifying filter is dirty. The blower according to claim 1.

8. The humidifying unit comprises a tray for storing water supplied to the humidifying filter, and a detection unit for detecting whether or not water is stored. The control unit determines whether the humidifying filter is dirty based on the time that the detection unit detected that water was stored in the humidifying filter after it was attached to the blower. A blower according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The control unit determines whether the humidifying filter is dirty based on the time the blower has been humidifying or the amount of humidification performed by the blower. A blower according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. The control unit determines whether the humidifying filter is dirty based on the humidifying power of the blower. A blower according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. Equipped with a sensor that detects the intensity of the musty smell, The control unit determines whether or not the humidifying filter is dirty based on the strength. A blower according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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