Humidifier

Abstract

To provide a humidifier capable of suppressing water leakage from a water supply hole of a tank communicating with a water tank.SOLUTION: A valve (60) for opening and closing a water supply hole (81) and a first filter member (100) for capturing foreign matter in water in a tank (42) are arranged in the tank (42) of a humidifier. The first filter member (100) is arranged upstream of the valve (60) in a water flow that is formed when the water in the tank (42) flows into a water storage part (43) through the water supply hole (81).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] The humidifying device described in Patent Document 1 includes a humidifying filter, a water tank that supplies water to the humidifying filter, and a water supply tank that stores water supplied from the outside. An opening is provided at the bottom of the water supply tank, and the water supply tank supplies water to the water tank through the opening. The water supply tank is provided with a valve body that opens and closes the opening, and the amount of water supplied to the water tank is adjusted by the valve body.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, if fine foreign matter mixed in the water in the water supply tank is caught between the valve body and the opening, the sealing performance at the opening is reduced, and there is a risk of water leakage from the gap between the valve body and the opening even when the opening is in a closed state. However, no countermeasures against such water leakage have been studied so far.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a humidifying device that suppresses water leakage from a water supply hole of a tank communicating with a water tank.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first aspect is a casing (11), an air passage (P) formed in the casing (11), a humidifying unit (50) that humidifies the air flowing through the air passage (P), A water storage unit (43) for storing water supplied to the humidifying unit (50), The system includes a tank (42) positioned above the water storage section (43) and supplying water to the water storage section (43), The bottom of the tank (42) is provided with a water supply hole (81) that communicates with the water storage section (43). Inside the aforementioned tank (42), A valve (60) for opening and closing the water supply hole (81), A first filter member (100) for capturing foreign matter in the water inside the tank (42) is provided. The first filter member (100) is a humidifier positioned upstream of the valve (60) in the water flow formed when water in the tank (42) flows into the water storage section (43) through the water supply hole (81).

[0007] In the first embodiment, when water is supplied from the tank (42) to the water storage section (43), foreign matter contained in the water in the tank (42) is captured by the first filter member (100), thereby preventing foreign matter from entering the valve (60) and the water supply hole (81). This prevents a decrease in the sealing performance of the valve (60) due to foreign matter getting stuck in the gap between the valve (60) and the water supply hole (81), and prevents water leakage from the tank (42).

[0008] A second aspect is, in the first aspect, The first filter member (100) is attached to the bottom of the tank (42) and is formed to accommodate the valve (60).

[0009] In the second embodiment, since the valve (60) is positioned inside the first filter member (100), when water is supplied from the tank (42) to the water storage section (43), the water in the tank (42) flows through the first filter member (100) to the valve (60). This provides the same effect as in the first embodiment.

[0010] A third aspect is a manifestation of the first or second aspect, The first filter member (100) is configured to be removable from the tank (42).

[0011] In the third embodiment, the maintainability of the first filter member (100) can be improved.

[0012] The fourth aspect is one of the first to third aspects, The tank (42) has a cylindrical portion (80) that is formed to extend upward from the bottom of the tank (42), The opening facing upward in the cylindrical portion (80) is the water supply hole (81), The valve (60) seals the water supply hole (81).

[0013] In the fourth embodiment, since the upper end of the cylindrical portion (80) is higher than the bottom of the tank (42), by providing a valve (60) at that position, it is possible to suppress foreign matter accumulated at the bottom of the tank (42) from flowing towards the valve.

[0014] The fifth aspect is as described in the fourth aspect. The valve (60) has a valve body (61) that seals the water supply hole (81) by blocking it from above. The cylindrical portion (80) has a peripheral wall (82a) that rises from around the water supply hole (81) and surrounds the valve body (61).

[0015] In the fifth embodiment, the peripheral wall (82a) obstructs the flow of water entering the valve body (61) from the side of the water supply hole (81), thereby preventing foreign matter accumulated on the bottom surface of the tank (42) from adhering to the water supply hole (81) and the valve body (61).

[0016] The sixth aspect is a manifestation of the fourth or fifth aspect, The first filter member (100) has a filter section (102) which is a filter material and a frame section (101) which fixes the filter section (102), The frame portion (101) is formed to accommodate the valve (60), The filter section (102) is disposed at a height position lower than the upper end of the cylindrical section (80).

[0017] In the sixth aspect, when water is supplied from the tank (42) to the water storage section (43), the water in the tank (42) descends to the filter section (102), and after passing through the filter section (102), a water flow that rises to the upper end of the cylindrical section (80) or the upper end of the peripheral wall (82a) is formed. Thus, by forming a complex water flow path (labyrinth flow path) by the filter section (102) and the cylindrical section (80), it is possible to suppress foreign matter that has once descended from entering the water supply hole (81).

[0018] The seventh aspect is any one of the first to sixth aspects, The valve (60) has a valve body (61) of an elastic member that seals the circular water supply hole (81), The outer surface of the valve body (61) has a spherical surface portion (61a) formed in a spherical shape so as to contact the water supply hole (81).

[0019] In the seventh aspect, when the outer surface of the valve body (61) in contact with the water supply hole (81) is formed in a spherical shape rather than a flat surface, the valve body (61) can contact the water supply hole (81) without a gap, so that a decrease in the sealing performance of the valve body (61) can be suppressed.

[0020] The eighth aspect is in the seventh aspect, The inside of the spherical surface portion (61a) of the valve body (61) is solid.

[0021] In the eighth aspect, by making the inside of the spherical surface portion (61a) solid, the followability of the shape change of the outer surface of the valve body (61) can be improved. Specifically, even if foreign matter is caught between the valve body (61) and the water supply hole (81), the outer surface of the valve body (61) changes so as to follow the shape of the foreign matter, so that a gap is less likely to be formed between the valve body (61) and the water supply hole (81). Thereby, a decrease in the sealing performance of the valve body (61) can be suppressed.

[0022] The ninth aspect is any one of the first to eighth aspects, A water inlet (46) is formed at the top of the tank (42), allowing water to be supplied into the tank (42) from the outside. The system further includes a second filter member (90) positioned at or below the water inlet (46) for capturing foreign matter contained in the water supplied to the tank (42) from the outside.

[0023] In the ninth embodiment, when water is supplied to the tank (42), it is possible to suppress the mixing of foreign matter contained in the water into the tank (42).

[0024] The tenth aspect is as follows, in the ninth aspect: The filter material of the first filter member (100) has a finer mesh than the filter material of the second filter member (90).

[0025] In the tenth embodiment, clogging of the first filter member (100) can be suppressed by removing relatively large foreign matter in advance using the second filter member (90). [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of an air purifier according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the air purifier as viewed from the front. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the air purifier as viewed from the right side. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the water tray and humidifying rotor. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the tank and water tray. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VI-VI in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a partially enlarged view of the area around the water supply valve in Figure 6. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the configuration when the secondary filter unit is removed from the water supply port. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the flow of water inside the tank when water is supplied from the tank to the water tray. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Since the drawings are for conceptual explanation of this disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for ease of understanding.

[0028] (1) Overall configuration of the air purifier The humidifier described herein is applicable to an air purifier (10). The overall configuration of the air purifier (10) will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. In the following description, the terms "up," "down," "front," "back," "right," and "left" will, in principle, refer to the directions indicated by the arrows in Figure 1. The thick arrows shown in Figure 9 indicate the flow of water.

[0029] The air purifier (10) of this embodiment purifies the air in the target space, which is an indoor space (S). In addition, the air purifier (10) humidifies the air in the indoor space (S). The air purifier (10) has a casing (11). Inside the casing (11), the air purifier (10) has an air purification unit (20) for purifying the air and a humidification unit (40) for humidifying the purified air.

[0030] (1-1) Casing As shown in Figure 1, the casing (11) is formed in the shape of a hollow box. The casing (11) is formed in the shape of a vertically elongated rectangular parallelepiped. The casing (11) has a top plate (11a), a bottom plate (11b), a front plate (11c), a rear plate (11d), a right side plate (11e), and a left side plate (11f).

[0031] An air outlet (12) is formed in the top plate (11a). The air outlet (12) is rectangular in shape and is formed slightly towards the rear of the top plate (11a). Two flaps (12a) are provided in the air outlet (12). The flaps (12a) are plate-shaped and extend across both the left and right ends of the air outlet (12). The flaps (12a) open and close the air outlet (12) and adjust the direction of the blown air.

[0032] A control panel (14) is provided on the top panel (11a). The control panel (14) is located towards the front of the top panel (11a). By operating the control panel (14), the user can input the operating mode and various settings of the air purifier (10).

[0033] A first intake port (15A) is formed on the right side panel (11e). The first intake port (15A) is rectangular in shape and is formed at the bottom of the right side panel (11e). An opening / closing lid (17) is provided on the top of the right side panel (11e). The opening / closing lid (17) opens and closes the access port (18) of the tank (42) of the humidification unit (40). The opening / closing lid (17) is removable from the casing (11). A pull-out opening (17a) is formed on the top of the opening / closing lid (17). The user places their hand on the pull-out opening (17a) and removes the opening / closing lid (17). This opens the access port (18). The user can then remove the tank (42) from the casing (11) through the access port (18).

[0034] A second suction port (15B) is formed on the left side plate (11f). The second suction port (15B) is rectangular in shape and is formed at the bottom of the left side plate (11f).

[0035] A third suction port (15C) is formed at the lower end of the front plate (11c). The third suction port (15C) extends horizontally across both the left and right ends of the casing (11). Hereafter, unless otherwise necessary, the first suction port (15A), the second suction port (15B), and the third suction port (15C) may be referred to as the suction port (15).

[0036] As shown in Figure 2, an air passage (P) is formed inside the casing (11). The first inlet (15A), the second inlet (15B), and the third inlet (15C) constitute the inlet end of the air passage (P). The outlet (12) constitutes the outlet end of the air passage (P).

[0037] (1-2) Air Purification Unit The air purification unit (20) is located at the bottom of the air passage (P). The air purification unit (20) purifies the air drawn in from the first intake port (15A), the second intake port (15B), and the third intake port (15C). The air purification unit (20) has, in order from the upstream side of the air passage (P), a pre-filter (21, 22), a HEPA filter (23, 24), a deodorizing filter (25, 26), and a fan unit (30). In addition, the air purification unit (20) has a discharge unit (27, 28).

[0038] The pre-filters (21, 22), HEPA filters (23, 24), deodorizing filters (25, 26), and discharge units (27, 28) are examples of air purification units that purify the air in the target space (S).

[0039] As shown in Figure 2, the casing (11) is provided with two pre-filters: a first pre-filter (21) and a second pre-filter (22). The first pre-filter (21) is located at the first inlet (15A), and the second pre-filter (22) is located at the second inlet (15B). The first pre-filter (21) and the second pre-filter (22) collect relatively large dust particles from the air.

[0040] The casing (11) is provided with two HEPA filters: a first HEPA filter (23) (High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter) and a second HEPA filter (24). The first HEPA filter (23) is positioned between a first pre-filter (21) and a first deodorizing filter (25). The second HEPA filter (24) is positioned between a second pre-filter (22) and a second deodorizing filter (26). The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) are formed in a plate shape with their thickness direction corresponding to the horizontal direction. The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) have an electrostatic function that captures particles by electrostatic force. Antimicrobial agents may be added to the first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24). The first HEPA filter (23) and the second HEPA filter (24) may have a laminated structure in which two or more filter materials are stacked in the direction of air passage.

[0041] The casing (11) is provided with two deodorizing filters: a first deodorizing filter (25) and a second deodorizing filter (26). The first deodorizing filter (25) is positioned between the first HEPA filter (23) and the fan unit (30). The second deodorizing filter (26) is positioned between the second HEPA filter (24) and the fan unit (30). The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) are formed in a plate shape with their thickness direction corresponding to the horizontal direction. The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) are adsorption sections that adsorb harmful substances and odor substances in the air. The first deodorizing filter (25) and the second deodorizing filter (26) have a substrate through which air can pass and an adsorbent such as activated carbon supported on the substrate.

[0042] (1-3) Fan Unit The fan unit (30) is positioned at the bottom of the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) transports the air in the air passage (P). The fan unit (30) is a unit having a centrifugal fan, specifically a sirocco fan. The fan unit (30) is a double-inlet type, with intake ports formed at both ends in the axial direction of its drive shaft (the rotation axis of the impeller). The outlet of the fan unit (30) faces upward. The fan unit (30) has a fan motor (31) that drives the impeller. The fan motor (31) is housed in a housing. When the fan unit (30) is operated, air from the room space (S) is drawn into the air passage (P) from the first intake port (15A), the second intake port (15B), and the third intake port (15C). The air that has flowed through the air passage (P) is blown out into the target space from the outlet port (12).

[0043] (1-4) Discharge Unit The casing (11) is provided with two discharge units: a first discharge unit (27) and a second discharge unit (28). The first discharge unit (27) is positioned above the first HEPA filter (23) and the first deodorizing filter (25). The second discharge unit (28) is positioned above the second HEPA filter (24) and the second deodorizing filter (26). The second discharge unit (28) is positioned near the left side plate (11f) in the air passage (P).

[0044] The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) generate active species for oxidative decomposition of odor components in the air as they discharge. The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) discharge between the tip of a linear discharge electrode and the plane of a plate-shaped counter electrode. The first discharge unit (27) and the second discharge unit (28) perform streamer discharge, forming a roughly conical discharge region from the tip of the discharge electrode toward the counter electrode.

[0045] The first discharge unit (27) is located in the first discharge path (32), and the second discharge unit (28) is located in the second discharge path (33). The first discharge path (32) is a passage for returning a portion of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) along with the active species generated by the first discharge unit (27) to the upstream side of the first HEPA filter (23). The second discharge path (33) is a passage for returning a portion of the air blown out from the fan unit (30) along with the active species generated by the second discharge unit (28) to the upstream side of the second HEPA filter (24).

[0046] (1-5) Humidification Unit The humidifying unit (40) is positioned between the outlet of the fan unit (30) and the outlet (12) of the casing (11). The humidifying unit (40) is positioned in the humidifying space (35) located above the air passage (P). The humidifying unit (40) adds water to the air flowing through the air passage (P). As shown in Figure 3, the humidifying unit (40) includes a tank (42), a water tray (43), a humidifying rotor (50), a rotating shaft (44), and a drive mechanism (45).

[0047] The tank (42) is a container for storing water for humidification. The tank (42) is positioned above the water tray (43). The tank (42) supplies the water inside to the water tray (43). The tank (42) is configured to be able to be inserted into and removed from the casing (11) through the access port (18) described above. The tank (42) has a water inlet (46) that allows water to be supplied into the tank (42) from the outside, and a water supply hole (81) that communicates with the water tray (43). The water inlet (46) is formed at the top of the tank (42). The water supply hole (81) is provided at the bottom of the tank (42). Details of the tank (42) will be described later.

[0048] The water tray (43) stores water supplied from the tank (42). The water tray (43) constitutes a water storage section that stores water supplied to the humidifying rotor (50). The water tray (43) is a container with an open top.

[0049] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the water tray (43) is formed in an annular shape when viewed from above. The water tray (43) has a first tray section (43a) and a second tray section (43b) that are adjacent to each other horizontally. A tank (42) is installed in the first tray section (43a). A humidifying rotor (50) is installed in the second tray section (43b). The first tray section (43a) and the second tray section (43b) are connected to each other via a partition plate (57). A communication hole (58) is formed in the partition plate (57), and water supplied from the tank (42) to the first tray section (43a) flows into the second tray section (43b) via the communication hole (58).

[0050] The first tray section (43a) is provided with a float switch (48) and an arm (49). The float switch (48) detects the water level in the water tray (43). The arm (49) is a component that moves the water supply valve (60), described later, up and down according to the water level in the first tray section (43a). The arm (49) is positioned on the bottom surface of the first tray section (43a) and extends from the float switch (48) toward the water supply valve (60). The tip of the arm (49) is in contact with the lower end of the water supply valve (60) (see Figures 6 and 7), and the float switch (48) controls the up and down movement of the tip of the arm (49).

[0051] The humidifying rotor (50) humidifies the air flowing through the air passage (P). The humidifying rotor (50) divides the humidification space (35) into a primary space (35a) and a secondary space (35b). The primary space (35a) is formed on the upstream side of the humidifying rotor (50). The secondary space (35b) is formed on the downstream side of the humidifying rotor (50). The humidifying rotor (50) is an example of a humidification unit (50).

[0052] The humidifying rotor (50) has a water-absorbing member (70), a rotating frame (74), and a plurality of buckets (not shown). The water-absorbing member (70) is a member that absorbs water. The water contained in the water-absorbing member (70) is added to the air in the humidifying space (35). The rotating frame (74) is a member that holds the water-absorbing member (70). The rotating frame (74) is an annular frame body, and the water-absorbing member (70) is held in its inner frame. The buckets are containers that draw water from the water tray (43) and store the drawn-up water. The buckets are arranged inside the rotating frame (74). The plurality of buckets are arranged circumferentially along the outer edge of the rotating frame (74).

[0053] A water inlet (59) is formed in the rotating frame (74). The water inlet (59) is a hole through which water is discharged from inside the bucket toward the water absorption member (70). The water inlet (59) is formed on the surface of the rotating frame (74) on the primary space (35a) side and opens toward the water absorption member (70).

[0054] The rotating shaft (44) is located on the axis of the water-absorbing member (70). The axis of the humidifying rotor (50) and the axis of the rotating shaft (44) coincide. The rotating shaft (44) extends along the direction of airflow through the humidifying space (35). The rotating shaft (44) extends across both the primary space (35a) and the secondary space (35b). The rotating shaft (44) is rotatably supported by two shaft support parts (44a) provided on the water tray (43).

[0055] (1-6) Damper As shown in Figure 3, the air purifier (10) has a first damper (36) and a second damper (37). The first damper (36) is located in the air passage (P) between the fan unit (30) and the secondary space (35b). The second damper (37) is located in the air passage (P) between the primary space (35a) and the air outlet (12). The first damper (36) and the second damper (37) open and close in conjunction with each other. Specifically, when the first damper (36) is closed, the second damper (37) is also closed, and when the first damper (36) is open, the second damper (37) is also open.

[0056] (2) Detailed configuration of the tank As shown in Figure 5, the tank (42) has a tank body (42a) and a lid (42b). The top surface of the tank body (42a) is open over almost its entire area. The lid (42b) is removablely attached to the top surface of the tank body (42a). The lid (42b) is a flat, plate-shaped member made of resin. The lid (42b) is formed to be recessed from the edge of the upper end of the tank (42). A water inlet (46) is formed in the lid (42b). The water inlet (46) is positioned slightly forward of the center of the lid (42b). The handle (47) is the part that the user holds in their hand and is used to remove the tank (42) from the casing (11) and to attach the tank (42) to the casing (11).

[0057] The lid (42b) has a primary filter unit (90). The primary filter unit (90) is located below the water inlet (46). Specifically, the primary filter unit (90) is a filter material fixed to a frame that is integrally formed with the lid (42b). The frame is formed on the lower surface of the lid (42b). The frame is connected to the lower side of the water inlet (46).

[0058] The primary filter unit (90) is fixed to the lower end of the frame. That is, the primary filter unit (90) is installed in a recessed position from the upper surface of the lid (42b). In this way, the primary filter unit (90) captures foreign matter contained in the water supplied to the tank (42) from the outside. The primary filter unit (90) is an example of the second filter member (90).

[0059] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the tank body (42a) is formed in a generally box shape that is open upwards. The tank body (42a) is provided with a handle (47). The handle (47) is the part that the user holds in their hand and is used to remove the tank (42) from the casing (11) and to attach the tank (42) to the casing (11).

[0060] The bottom surface of the tank body (42a) is formed to slope downward towards the center. A water supply hole (81) is located in the center of the tank body (42a). A cylindrical portion (80) is formed on the bottom surface of the tank body (42a). Specifically, the tank (42) has a cylindrical portion (80) that extends upward from the bottom of the tank (42). The cylindrical portion (80) connects the inside and outside of the tank (42). When the tank (42) is installed on the water tray (43), the cylindrical portion (80) connects the tank (42) and the water tray (43). The upward-facing opening of the cylindrical portion (80) is a water supply hole (81). The cylindrical portion (80) is cylindrical in shape, and the water supply hole (81) is formed in a circular shape when viewed from above. The cylindrical portion (80) is located at the lowest part of the bottom of the tank body (42a). The cylindrical portion (80) has an outer cylinder (82), an inner cylinder (83), an annular portion (84), and a first peripheral wall (82a).

[0061] The outer cylinder (82) is positioned outside the inner cylinder (83). The outer surface of the outer cylinder (82) constitutes the outer surface of the cylindrical portion (80). The height of the upper end of the outer cylinder (82) is higher than the height of the upper end of the inner cylinder (83). In other words, the outer cylinder (82) protrudes upward from the inner cylinder (83).

[0062] The inner surface of the inner cylinder (83) constitutes a part of the inner surface of the cylindrical portion (80). The upper end portion of the inner surface of the inner cylinder (83) constitutes the water supply hole (81).

[0063] The annular portion (84) connects the upper end of the inner cylinder (83) to the inner wall of the outer cylinder (82). Specifically, the annular portion (84) has a tapered surface (84a) and a flat surface (84b). The tapered surface (84a) is formed to slope upward from the upper end of the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder (83) toward the outer cylinder (82). The tapered surface (84a) may constitute a water supply hole (81). That is, the tapered surface (84a) may function as a sealing surface to which the water supply hole (81) is sealed by a valve body (61), which will be described later. The flat surface (84b) is formed to extend substantially horizontally from the outer edge of the tapered surface (84a) toward the inner wall of the outer cylinder (82).

[0064] The first circumferential wall (82a) is formed to rise up from around the water supply hole (81). In this embodiment, the first circumferential wall (82a) constitutes a part of the outer cylinder (82). The first circumferential wall (82a) is the part of the outer cylinder (82) that extends upward from the annular portion (84). The height position of the upper end of the first circumferential wall (82a) (the height position of the upper end of the outer cylinder (82)) is higher than the height position of the upper end of the valve body (61) when the valve body (61), described later, is sealing the water supply hole (81). In this way, the first circumferential wall (82a) is provided to surround the valve body (61). The first circumferential wall (82a) is an example of a circumferential wall.

[0065] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, a first protrusion (71), a second protrusion (72), and a locking portion (73) are formed at the bottom of the tank body (42a). The first protrusion (71) is the portion to which the ring member (103) of the secondary filter unit (100), which will be described later, makes contact. The first protrusion (71) is formed in an annular shape so as to surround the cylindrical portion (80).

[0066] The second protrusion (72) is formed in an annular shape so as to surround the first protrusion (71). The second protrusion (72) is formed so that the secondary filter unit (100), which will be described later, fits inside the second protrusion (72). The second protrusion (72) has two radially opposing bulges (72a). The bulges (72a) are formed so that a part of the second protrusion (72) bulges radially outward from the second protrusion (72). As will be described in detail later, the projection (114) of the secondary filter unit (100) fits inside these bulges (72a), which allows for alignment of the secondary filter unit (100) and prevents the secondary filter unit (100) from shifting in the circumferential direction.

[0067] The locking portion (73) is the part that engages with the engaging portion (115) of the secondary filter unit (100), which will be described later. The locking portion (73) is a pair of inverted U-shaped plate members that rise from the bottom surface of the tank (42). The locking portion (73) has a locking hole (73a) into which the claw portion (115a) of the engaging portion (115), which will be described later, engages. The locking portion (73) has a guide surface (73b) that guides the claw portion (115a) into the locking hole (73a). The guide surface (73b) is formed to be inclined radially outward from the second ridge portion (72) upward from the locking hole (73a) of the locking portion (73).

[0068] The tank body (42a) has a second peripheral wall (85) formed on its outer surface, extending downward from the bottom surface. The second peripheral wall (85) is positioned in a location corresponding to the cylindrical portion (80). The second peripheral wall (85) will be described later.

[0069] (3) Water supply valve A water supply valve (60) is located inside the tank (42). The water supply valve (60) constitutes a valve (60) that opens and closes the water supply hole (81). In this embodiment, the water supply valve (60) seals the water supply hole (81) when it is closed. The water supply valve (60) has a valve body (61), a valve stem (62), a spring (63), and a spring receiving part (64).

[0070] The valve body (61) seals the water supply hole (81) by blocking it from above. The valve body (61) is an elastic member and is formed in a hemispherical shape that becomes rounded downwards. Specifically, the outer surface of the valve body (61) has a spherical portion (61a) that is formed in a spherical shape so as to be in contact with the water supply hole (81). When the valve body (61) is viewed from above, the diameter of the valve body (61) is larger than the inner diameter of the water supply hole (81). The spherical portion (61a) is positioned to face the water supply hole (81). As a result, the spherical portion (61a) is in contact with the water supply hole (81) and the water supply hole (81) is sealed.

[0071] The valve body (61) is formed to be solid. Specifically, a through hole (65) for fixing the valve stem (62) is formed inside the valve body (61), and the inside of the valve body (61) excluding the through hole (65) is solid. In other words, the valve body (61) is a solid elastic member excluding the through hole (65). The through hole (65) penetrates the center of the valve body (61) in the vertical direction. Thus, the inside of the spherical portion (61a) of the valve body (61) is solid.

[0072] The valve stem (62) is a rod-shaped member that extends downward from the valve body (61). The upper part of the valve stem (62) is fixed to the insertion hole (65) of the valve body (61). In other words, the upper part of the valve stem (62) is fixed so as to be in close contact with the inner surface of the insertion hole (65). The valve stem (62) is inserted through the inside of the cylindrical portion (80) and the inside of the spring (63) located below the cylindrical portion (80).

[0073] The spring (63) is formed in a spiral shape extending downward from the lower end of the cylindrical portion (80). The upper end of the spring (63) is fixed to the cylindrical portion (80), and the spring (63) is biased to extend downward.

[0074] The spring retainer (64) is connected to the lower end of the valve stem (62). The spring retainer (64) is formed in a disc shape. The upper surface of the spring retainer (64) is in contact with the lower end of the spring (63). As a result, a downward force acts on the spring retainer (64) due to the spring (63). In addition, a downward force acts on the valve body (61), which is connected to the spring retainer (64) via the valve stem (62), from above the water supply hole (81).

[0075] A second circumferential wall (85) is provided around the spring receiving portion (64). The second circumferential wall (85) is formed in a cylindrical shape. The height of the lower end of the second circumferential wall (85) is lower than that of the spring receiving portion (64). In this way, the second circumferential wall (85) has the function of protecting the spring receiving portion (64), valve stem (62), and spring (63) from the outside, and the second circumferential wall (85) prevents damage or malfunction of the water supply valve (60).

[0076] (4) Secondary filter unit The air purifier (10) of this embodiment has a secondary filter unit (100). The secondary filter unit (100) is an example of the first filter member (100). The secondary filter unit (100) is attached to the bottom of the tank (42) and is formed to house a water supply valve (60). The secondary filter unit (100) captures foreign matter in the water in the tank (42). The secondary filter unit (100) is configured to be removable from the tank (42).

[0077] The secondary filter unit (100) has a frame portion (101), a filter portion (102), and a ring member (103). The frame portion (101) fixes the filter portion (102). The filter portion (102) is a filter material. The mesh size of the filter material (filter portion (102)) of the secondary filter unit is smaller than the mesh size of the primary filter unit (90). The ring member (103) is an elastic member provided so as to be sandwiched between the frame portion (101) and the bottom surface of the tank (42).

[0078] The frame portion (101) is generally formed in the shape of a truncated cone. In other words, the frame portion (101) is shaped like an inverted bowl. Specifically, the frame portion (101) has a top plate portion (111), side wall portions (112), fixing portions (113), projection portions (114), engaging portions (115), and knob portions (116).

[0079] The top plate (111) is formed in a generally circular shape. The top plate (111) is positioned to cover the top of the water supply valve (60).

[0080] The side wall portion (112) extends downward from the outer edge of the top plate portion (111). Multiple mounting holes (112a) are formed in the side wall portion (112) to which the filter portion (102) is attached. The multiple mounting holes (112a) are arranged in a line in the circumferential direction of the side wall portion (112). Each mounting hole (112a) is formed in a horizontal shape. The mounting holes (112a) are positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the cylindrical portion (80). That is, the filter portion (102) is positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the cylindrical portion (80). More specifically, the upper end of the filter portion (102) is positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the first circumferential wall (82a).

[0081] The fixing portion (113) secures the ring member (103). The fixing portion (113) is positioned at the lower end of the side wall portion (112). The fixing portion (113) has a groove (113a) into which the ring member (103) is fitted. The groove (113a) opens downward and is formed around the entire circumference of the side wall portion (112).

[0082] The projection (114) is located inside the bulge (72a) of the second protrusion (72). Specifically, the projection (114) protrudes radially outward from the side surface of the fixing part (113). The two projections (114) are arranged to face each other radially on the top plate part (111).

[0083] The engaging portion (115) is a pair of plate members that extend upward from the fixing portion (113) and are arranged facing each other in the radial direction of the top plate portion (111). The engaging portion (115) engages with the locking portion (73) to fix the secondary filter unit (100) to the bottom surface of the tank body (42a).

[0084] The engaging portion (115) is formed to bend upward from below. Specifically, the engaging portion (115) extends upward from the fixing portion (113) so as to be inclined radially outward toward the top plate portion (111), and then extends in a generally vertical direction. The engaging portion (115) has a claw portion (115a) and a support portion (115b).

[0085] The claw portion (115a) is a member that engages with the locking portion (73) provided on the bottom surface of the tank (42). The claw portion (115a) is formed to protrude from the outer surface (radially outward from the top plate portion (111)) of the engaging portion (115). The claw portion (115a) is positioned at the bent portion of the engaging portion (115).

[0086] The support portion (115b) is provided on the inner surface of the engaging portion (115) (radially inward from the top plate portion (111)). The support portion (115b) is formed so that a projection extends in the vertical direction. As will be described in detail later, the support portion (115b) assists in the force pushing back outward from the engaging portion (115) when the engaging portion (115) is biased inward toward the top plate portion (111). This prevents the claw portion (115a) from detaching from the locking portion (73).

[0087] The knob portion (116) is a pair of plate members extending upward from the outer edge of the top plate portion (111). As will be described in detail later, the knob portion (116) is the part that the user holds with their fingers when attaching the secondary filter unit (100) to the bottom of the tank (42).

[0088] (5) Removal and installation of the secondary filter unit When installing the secondary filter unit (100) into the tank (42), remove the lid (42b) from the tank (42), then hold the secondary filter unit (100) by gripping the knob (116) with your fingers and move it into the tank (42).

[0089] The secondary filter unit (100) is brought closer to the water supply valve (60) from above so that the engaging portion (115) aligns with the locking portion (73), and the claw portion (115a) is pushed downward while sliding along the guide surface (73b) of the locking portion (73). During this process, the locking portion (73), which is pushed by the claw portion (115a), deforms to tilt radially outward, while the engaging portion (115), which is pushed by the guide surface (73b), deforms to tilt radially inward.

[0090] When the claw portion (115a) fits into the locking hole (73a), the engaging portion (115) returns to its original position due to the radially outward force acting by the support portion (115b), and the locking portion (73) also returns to its original position. At this time, the fixing portion (113) of the secondary filter unit (100) fits inside the second protrusion (72), and the projection (114) fits into the bulge (72a) of the second protrusion (72). In addition, the ring member (103) is compressed by the first protrusion (71), causing the ring member (103) and the first protrusion (71) to be in close contact.

[0091] To remove the secondary filter unit (100) from the tank (42), pinch the pair of plate members of the engaging portion (115) with your fingers so that they are brought closer together. This changes the position of the engaging portion (115) radially inward, causing the claw portion (115a) to disengage from the locking hole (73a). While maintaining this state, lift the secondary filter unit (100) upward.

[0092] (6) Water supply operation to the tank and water flow from the tank to the water tray The process of supplying water to the tank (42) and the flow of water from the tank (42) to the water tray (43) will be explained.

[0093] Open the access port (18) of the casing (11), grasp the handle (47) of the tank (42), and pull the tank (42) towards you, exposing the water inlet (46) to the outside. In this state, water is poured from a container of water into the water inlet (46). At this time, any foreign matter of a predetermined size mixed in the water is captured by the primary filter unit (90). Once the tank (42) has been supplied with a predetermined amount of water, grasp the handle (47) again, push the tank (42) towards the back of the casing (11), and close the access port (18).

[0094] As shown in Figure 9, when the float switch detects that the water level in the water tray (43) has fallen below a predetermined level, the tip of the arm (49) rises. This pushes up the spring receiver (64), causing the valve body (61) to rise and move away from the water inlet (81). At this time, the water inlet (81) opens, and a flow of water towards the water inlet (81) is formed inside the tank (42).

[0095] The water in the tank (42) flows toward the secondary filter unit (100). Here, the ring member (103) functions as a packing between the secondary filter unit (100) and the tank (42), restricting the inflow of water from the tank (42) through the gap between the secondary filter unit (100) and the tank (42). As a result, the water in the tank (42) passes through the filter section (102) of the secondary filter unit (100). At this time, any fine foreign matter mixed into the tank (42) is captured by the filter section (102). In this way, the secondary filter unit (100) is positioned upstream of the water supply valve (60) in the water flow formed when the water in the tank (42) flows into the water tray (43) through the water supply hole (81).

[0096] Next, the water that has passed through the filter section (102) and flowed into the secondary filter unit (100) rises to the upper end of the first peripheral wall (82a). Since the filter section (102) is positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the first peripheral wall (82a) (cylinder section (80)), a water flow is formed that descends to the filter section (102), passes through the filter section (102), and then rises again to the upper end of the first peripheral wall (82a). Also, even if the valve body (61) rises, the valve body (61) is positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the first peripheral wall (82a). Therefore, the water that reaches the upper end of the first peripheral wall (82a) descends towards the valve body (61). In this way, the filter section (102) and the first peripheral wall (82a) form a labyrinth flow path, which is an intricate network of water channels, and the first peripheral wall (82a) suppresses the formation of water flow from the side of the valve body (61) into the water supply hole (81).

[0097] Furthermore, within the secondary filter unit (100), a space is formed between the frame portion and the outer surface of the cylindrical portion (80) below the filter portion (102), so some of the water that passes through the filter portion (102) descends towards this space.

[0098] When the water level in the water tray (43) reaches a predetermined level, the float switch causes the floater to separate from the spring retainer (64). This causes the valve body (61) to descend and seal the water supply hole (81). Once the water supply hole (81) is sealed, the supply of water from the tank (42) to the water tray (43) stops (see Figure 7).

[0099] (7) Operating The operation of the air purifier (10) is described below. The air purifier (10) performs two operations: purification operation and humidification-purification operation. Purification operation is the operation that purifies the air in the target space (S). In purification operation, the humidification function is stopped. Humidification-purification operation is the operation that purifies and humidifies the air in the target space (S) simultaneously.

[0100] (7-1) Cleaning operation During the cleaning operation, the fan unit (30) and discharge units (27, 28) are driven. In principle, the humidifying rotor (50) is stopped. The first damper (36) and the second damper (37) are open. Air from the indoor space (S) is drawn into the air passage (P) from the first intake port (15A), the second intake port (15B), and the third intake port (15C), respectively. The air drawn in from the second intake port (15B) and the third intake port (15C) passes through the respective pre-filters (21, 22). Each pre-filter (21, 22) collects relatively large dust particles from the air. Upstream of each pre-filter (21, 22), odor components in the air are oxidized and decomposed by the active species released from the respective discharge units (27, 28).

[0101] The air that has passed through each pre-filter (21, 22) then passes through each HEPA filter (23, 24) and each deodorizing filter (25, 26) in sequence.

[0102] The air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows partly through the primary space (35a) and the remainder through the secondary space (35b). The air in the primary space (35a) and the air in the secondary space (35b) flow upward along the side of the humidifying rotor (50) and are blown out from the outlet (12) into the room space (S).

[0103] (7-2) Humidifying and purifying operation In humidification and purification operation, the fan unit (30) and discharge units (27, 28) are driven. In principle, the humidification rotor (50) is in a rotating state. As shown in Figure 3, the first damper (36) and the second damper (37) are in a closed state. In humidification and purification operation, the air is purified in the same manner as in the purification operation described above.

[0104] The air blown out from the fan unit (30) flows entirely through the primary space (35a). The air in the primary space (35a) passes through the humidifying rotor (50) in the axial direction. In the humidifying rotor (50), moisture from the water-absorbing material is added to the air. The air humidified by the humidifying rotor (50) flows out into the secondary space (35b) and is blown out into the indoor space (S) from the outlet (12).

[0105] (7-3) Operation of the humidifying unit When the air purifier (10) described above is in operation, the humidifying unit (40) performs the following operations.

[0106] The drive mechanism (45) rotates the rotating shaft (44). As a result, the humidifying rotor (50) rotates around the rotating shaft (44), and the bucket revolves around the axis of the rotating shaft (44). When the bucket enters the water in the water tray (43), the water in the water tray (43) enters the bucket through the inlet (56). When the bucket exits the water in the water tray (43), water is pumped into the bucket.

[0107] As the bucket moves further upward and reaches near the top of the humidifying rotor (50), the water in the bucket passes through the water inlet (59) and is released into the water absorbing member (70). This water moves onto the surface and into the water absorbing member (70). As the humidifying rotor (50) rotates further, the bucket re-enters the water in the water tray (43). This process is repeated continuously.

[0108] (8) Characteristics (8-1) Feature 1 The tank (42) contains a water supply valve (60) that opens and closes a water supply hole (81) and a secondary filter unit (100) that captures foreign matter in the water inside the tank (42). The secondary filter unit (100) is positioned upstream of the water supply valve (60) in the water flow formed when water from the tank (42) flows into the water tray (43) through the water supply hole (81).

[0109] According to this embodiment, when water is supplied from the tank (42) to the water tray (43), foreign matter contained in the water in the tank (42) is captured by the secondary filter unit (100), thereby preventing foreign matter from entering the water supply valve (60) and the water supply hole (81). This prevents foreign matter from getting stuck in the gap between the water supply valve (60) and the water supply hole (81), and prevents a decrease in the sealing performance of the water supply valve (60). In particular, when aiming to make the size of the air purifier more compact, it is conceivable to reduce the volume of the tank (42) and the water tray (43). In this case, the smaller the volume of the water tray (43) is compared to the volume of the tank (42), the greater the risk of water overflowing from the water tray (43) if water leaks from the water supply hole (81). However, in the air purifier (10) of this embodiment, water leakage from the water supply hole (81) is suppressed, thus enabling a more compact size for the air purifier (10).

[0110] (8-2) Feature 2 The secondary filter unit (100) is attached to the bottom of the tank (42) and is formed to accommodate the water supply valve (60).

[0111] According to this embodiment, since the water supply valve (60) is located inside the secondary filter unit (100), when water is supplied from the tank (42) to the water tray (43), the water in the tank (42) flows through the secondary filter unit (100) to the water supply valve (60). This prevents foreign matter from getting stuck in the gap between the water supply valve (60) and the water supply hole (81), and prevents a decrease in the sealing performance of the water supply valve (60).

[0112] (8-3) Feature 3 The secondary filter unit (100) is configured to be removable from the tank (42). This improves the maintainability of the secondary filter unit (100).

[0113] (8-4) Feature 4 The tank (42) has a cylindrical portion (80) that extends upward from the bottom of the tank (42). The upward-facing opening of the cylindrical portion (80) is a water supply hole (81), and the water supply valve (60) seals the water supply hole (81).

[0114] According to this embodiment, since the upper end of the cylindrical portion (80) is higher than the bottom of the tank (42), by providing the water supply valve (60) at that position, it is possible to suppress foreign matter accumulated at the bottom of the tank (42) from flowing towards the water supply valve (60).

[0115] (8-5) Feature 5 The water supply valve (60) has a valve body (61) that seals the water supply hole (81) by blocking it from above. The cylindrical portion (80) has a first circumferential wall (82a) that rises up from around the water supply hole (81) and surrounds the valve body (61).

[0116] According to this embodiment, the first peripheral wall (82a) obstructs the flow of water entering the valve body (61) from the side of the water supply hole (81), thereby preventing foreign matter accumulated on the bottom surface of the tank (42) from adhering to the water supply hole (81) and the valve body (61).

[0117] (8-6) Feature 6 The secondary filter unit (100) has a filter section (102) which is a filter material and a frame section (101) which fixes the filter section (102). The frame section (101) is formed to accommodate the water supply valve (60). The filter section (102) is positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the cylindrical section (80).

[0118] According to this embodiment, when water flows from the tank (42) toward the water tray (43), the water that descends to the filter section (102) passes through the filter section (102) and then rises to the upper end of the first peripheral wall (82a), forming a flow of water. In this way, a labyrinth flow path is formed by the secondary filter unit (100) and the cylindrical section (80), so that even if foreign matter passes through the filter section (102), it is possible to prevent the foreign matter from reaching the water supply hole (81).

[0119] (8-7) Feature 7 The water supply valve (60) has an elastic valve body (61) that seals a circular water supply hole (81). The outer surface of the valve body (61) has a spherical portion (61a) that is formed in a spherical shape so as to be in contact with the water supply hole (81).

[0120] According to this embodiment, forming the outer surface of the valve body (61) that contacts the water supply hole (81) as a spherical surface rather than a flat surface makes it less likely for a gap to form between the valve body (61) and the water supply hole (81) even if the valve body (61) shifts and comes into contact with the water supply hole (81). Furthermore, since it can make surface contact with the surrounding surface of the water supply hole (81), a decrease in the sealing performance of the valve body (61) can be suppressed. In particular, since a tapered surface (84a) is formed to surround the water supply hole (81), the sealing area of ​​the valve body (61) with respect to the surrounding water supply hole (81) can be increased, thereby improving the sealing performance of the valve body (61).

[0121] (8-8) Feature 8 The valve body (61) has a solid inner surface within its spherical portion (61a).

[0122] According to this embodiment, by making the inside of the spherical portion (61a) solid, the ability of the valve body (61) to follow changes in the shape of its outer surface can be improved. Specifically, even if foreign matter gets stuck between the valve body (61) and the water supply hole (81), the outer surface of the valve body (61) changes to follow the shape of the foreign matter, making it difficult for a gap to form between the valve body (61) and the water supply hole (81). In other words, the outer surface of the valve body (61) changes so that the foreign matter is embedded in its outer surface, making it difficult for a gap to form between the valve body (61) and the water supply hole (81) in the area where the foreign matter makes contact. This suppresses a decrease in the sealing performance of the valve body (61).

[0123] (8-9) Feature 9 A water inlet (46) is formed at the top of the tank (42) to allow water to be supplied into the tank (42) from the outside. A second filter member (90) is further provided below the water inlet (46) to capture foreign matter contained in the water supplied from the outside.

[0124] According to this embodiment, when supplying water to the tank (42), it is possible to suppress the mixing of foreign matter contained in the water into the tank (42).

[0125] (8-10) Feature 10 The filter media in the filter section (102) of the secondary filter unit (100) has a finer mesh than the filter media in the primary filter unit (90). This allows the primary filter unit (90) to remove relatively large foreign objects beforehand, thereby suppressing clogging in the secondary filter unit (100).

[0126] (9) Other embodiments The above embodiment may also have the following configuration.

[0127] The humidifier may be applied to devices other than the air purifier (10), or it may be a device that has only a humidifying function. In this case, the humidifier only needs to be equipped with a fan unit (30) and a humidifying unit (40).

[0128] The humidifying unit (50) does not need to be a humidifying rotor (50), as it does not need to humidify the air flowing through the air passage (P). The humidifying unit (50) may, for example, not rotate, or it may be a device that sprays air, or it may be a device that evaporates water from the water reservoir (43) by ultrasonic waves, heating, or the like.

[0129] The water storage section (43) can be any container that supplies water to the humidifying section (50). Alternatively, the water storage section (43) may be a container that stores water that serves as a humidifying source.

[0130] The first filter member (100) may consist only of a filter portion (102). In other words, the first filter member (100) may not have a frame portion (101).

[0131] The water supply valve (60) can be any valve that opens and closes the water supply hole (81), and is not limited to a configuration in which the valve body (61) blocks the water supply hole (81) from above.

[0132] The water supply valve (60) does not have to have a spherical outer surface of the valve body (61). Also, the inside of the valve body (61) does not have to be solid.

[0133] The tank (42) does not have to have a cylindrical portion (80). In this case, the water supply hole (81) is formed on the bottom surface of the tank body (42a).

[0134] The cylindrical portion (80) does not necessarily need to have a peripheral wall (82a) formed thereon.

[0135] The tank (42) only needs to have a first filter member (100), but does not need to have a second filter member (90).

[0136] The water inlet (46) of the tank (42) does not have to be located on the top of the tank (42). For example, the water inlet (46) may be located in the same position as the water inlet hole (81) of the tank (42).

[0137] While embodiments and modifications have been described above, it will be understood that a variety of changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Furthermore, these embodiments and modifications may be combined or substituted as appropriate, as long as they do not impair the functions of the subject matter of this disclosure. The terms "first" and "second" described above are used to distinguish the phrases to which they are attached, and do not limit the number or order of such phrases. [Industrial applicability]

[0138] As explained above, this disclosure is useful for humidifiers. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0139] 10. Air purifier (humidifier) 11 Casing 42 tanks 43 Water tray (water storage section) 46 Water inlet 50 Humidifying rotor (humidifying section) 60 Water supply valve (valve) 61 Valve body 61a Spherical part 80 Cylinder part 81 Water supply hole 90 Primary filter unit (second filter component) 100 Secondary filter unit (first filter component) 101 Frame section 102 Filter section P Air passage

Claims

1. Casing (11), An air passage (P) formed within the casing (11), A humidifying unit (50) that humidifies the air flowing through the aforementioned air passage (P), A water storage unit (43) for storing water supplied to the humidifying unit (50), The system includes a tank (42) positioned above the water storage section (43) and supplying water to the water storage section (43), A water supply hole (81) is provided at the bottom of the tank (42) and communicates with the water storage section (43). Inside the aforementioned tank (42), A valve (60) for opening and closing the water supply hole (81), A first filter member (100) for capturing foreign matter in the water inside the tank (42) is provided. The first filter member (100) is configured to be removable from the tank (42), and is positioned upstream of the valve (60) in the water flow formed when water in the tank (42) flows into the water storage section (43) through the water supply hole (81). The tank (42) has a cylindrical portion (80) that extends upward from the bottom of the tank (42), The opening facing upward in the cylindrical portion (80) is the water supply hole (81), The valve (60) has a valve body (61) that seals the water supply hole (81) by blocking it from above. The cylindrical portion (80) has a peripheral wall (82a) that rises from around the water supply hole (81) and surrounds the valve body (61). humidifier.

2. Casing (11) and An air passage (P) formed within the casing (11), A humidifying unit (50) that humidifies the air flowing through the aforementioned air passage (P), A water storage unit (43) for storing water supplied to the humidifying unit (50), The system includes a tank (42) positioned above the water storage section (43) and supplying water to the water storage section (43), A water supply hole (81) is provided at the bottom of the tank (42) and communicates with the water storage section (43). The tank (42) has a cylindrical portion (80) that extends upward from the bottom of the tank (42), The water supply hole (81) is an opening that faces upwards in the cylindrical portion (80), Inside the aforementioned tank (42), A valve (60) is positioned to seal the water supply hole (81) and to open and close the water supply hole (81), A first filter member (100) for capturing foreign matter in the water inside the tank (42) is provided. The first filter member (100) is, The filter section (102), which is the filter material, It has a frame portion (101) that fixes the filter portion (102), It is configured to be removable from the tank (42), In the water flow formed when water in the tank (42) flows into the water storage section (43) through the water supply hole (81), the following is located upstream of the valve (60): The frame portion (101) is formed to accommodate the valve (60), The filter section (102) is positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the cylindrical section (80). humidifier.

3. The first filter member (100) is attached to the bottom of the tank (42) and is formed to house the valve (60). A humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The valve (60) has a valve body (61) that seals the water supply hole (81) by blocking it from above. The cylindrical portion (80) has a peripheral wall (82a) that rises from around the water supply hole (81) and surrounds the valve body (61). The humidifier according to claim 2.

5. The first filter member (100) has a filter section (102) which is a filter material and a frame section (101) which fixes the filter section (102), The frame portion (101) is formed to accommodate the valve (60), The filter section (102) is positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the cylindrical section (80). The humidifier according to claim 1.

6. The valve (60) has a valve body (61) made of an elastic material that seals the circular water supply hole (81), The outer surface of the valve body (61) has a spherical portion (61a) that is formed in a spherical shape so as to be in contact with the water supply hole (81). A humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The valve body (61) has a solid inner surface on the spherical portion (61a). The humidifier according to claim 6.

8. A water inlet (46) is formed at the top of the tank (42), allowing water to be supplied into the tank (42) from the outside. The tank (42) is further provided with a second filter member (90) located at or below the water inlet (46) for capturing foreign matter contained in the water supplied from the outside. A humidifier according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The filter material of the first filter member (100) has a finer mesh than the filter material of the second filter member (90). The humidifier according to claim 8.

Images