Apparatus for humidifying and purifying air

Abstract

An apparatus for humidifying and purifying air is provided. The apparatus includes a housing including an inlet and an outlet, a blower fan configured to move air drawn in through the inlet to the outlet, a humidifying device disposed in the housing, and configured to heat water to discharge steam to the outlet, a first temperature sensor configured to detect a first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, a second temperature sensor configured to detect a second temperature of a mixed air including the steam discharged through the outlet, memory, comprising one or more storage media, storing instructions, and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the memory, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, cause the apparatus to determine a rotation speed of the blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation, and adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air discharged through the outlet and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application is a continuation application, claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. § 365(c), of an International application No. PCT / KR2025 / 016084, filed on Oct. 14, 2025, which is based on and claims the benefit of a Korean patent application number 10-2024-0156220, filed on Nov. 6, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates to an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air and a method for controlling the same that may supply steam by heating water while purifying air simultaneously.BACKGROUND ART

[0003] In general, a humidifier is a device that maintains the humidity of an indoor space at an appropriate level. The humidifier may vaporize water stored in a water tank and discharge steam into the indoor space.

[0004] There are various types of humidifiers on the market, including vaporization, ultrasonic, and heating types. Heating type humidifiers may generate steam by heating water stored in the water tank. The water tank may be located inside a main body of the humidifier. A cover that opens and closes the water tank may be installed on the main body. Generally, the cover may be installed on an upper portion of the main body, and the water tank may be designed to open upward.

[0005] An air purifier may remove contaminants from the air and discharge clean air. The air purifier may include a purifying device for purifying contaminated air. Air drawn into the air purifier may be purified into clean air while passing through the purifying device, and the clean air may be discharged to the outside of the air purifier. For example, the air purifier may include a purifying device such as a filter and / or a dust collector.

[0006] The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard to the disclosure.DISCLOSURETechnical Problem

[0007] Aspects of the disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and / or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air and a method for controlling the same that may perform a humidification operation and an air purification operation simultaneously.

[0008] Another aspect of the disclosure is to provide an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air and a method for controlling the same that may adjust a temperature of air discharged into an indoor space from the apparatus.

[0009] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

[0010] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air is provided. The apparatus includes a housing including an inlet and an outlet, a blower fan configured to move air drawn in through the inlet to the outlet, a humidifying device disposed in the housing, and configured to heat water to discharge steam to the outlet, a first temperature sensor configured to detect a first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, a second temperature sensor configured to detect a second temperature of a mixed air including the steam discharged through the outlet, memory, comprising one or more storage media, storing instructions, and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the memory, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, cause the apparatus to determine a rotation speed of the blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation, and adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air discharged through the outlet and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a method performed by an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air including a housing, a blower fan, a humidifying device, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, and a processor is provided. The method includes detecting, by the first temperature sensor, a first temperature of air drawn in through an inlet of the housing, detecting, by the second temperature sensor, a second temperature of a mixed air including steam discharged through an outlet of the housing, determining, by the processor, a rotation speed of the blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation, and adjusting, by the processor, the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media storing one or more computer programs including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an apparatus individually or collectively, cause the apparatus to perform operations are provided. The operations include detecting, by a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of air drawn in through an inlet of a housing, detecting, by a second temperature sensor, a second temperature of a mixed air including steam discharged through an outlet of the housing, determining, by a processor, a rotation speed of a blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation, and adjusting, by the processor, the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

[0013] According to the disclosure, an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air and a method for controlling the same adjust a temperature of air, discharged into an indoor space, to a target temperature set by a user. Accordingly, user convenience and satisfaction are improved.

[0014] Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the disclosure.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the disclosure will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates a first flow path of air flowing by a blower fan and a second flow path of steam discharged from a humidifying device according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a lower portion of the water tank illustrated in FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the water tank, the case, and the heating source illustrated in FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the water tank and the case illustrated in FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom view of the water tank, the case, and the heating source illustrated in FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a partitioning member according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the partitioning member illustrated in FIG. 8 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 10 illustrates a partitioning member disposed in a water tank according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the backflow prevention valve illustrated in FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a state of a backflow prevention valve when an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air is inverted according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 13 illustrates a partitioning member according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 14 illustrates a partitioning member according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 15 is a control block diagram of an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method for adjusting a rotation speed of a blower fan described in FIG. 16 in more detail according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0033] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a modified embodiment of the method for controlling an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air described in FIG. 16 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0034] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.MODES OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0035] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0036] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited t to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0037] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface”includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

[0038] The terms “including”, “having”, and the like are used to specify features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more of the features, elements, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0039] The phrases, “such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among the phrases.

[0040] The term of “and / or” includes a plurality of combinations of relevant items or any one item among a plurality of relevant items.

[0041] The terms such as “1st”, “2nd”, “primary”, or “secondary” may be used simply to distinguish an element from other elements, without limiting the element in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0042] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled,” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0043] It will be understood that when the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including”, and / or “comprising” are used in the disclosure, they specify the presence of the specified features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof.

[0044] When a given element is referred to as being “connected to”, “coupled to”, “supported by” or “in contact with” another element, it is to be understood that it may be directly or indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element. When a given element is indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with another element, it is to be understood that it may be connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element through a third element.

[0045] It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on” another element, it may be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present.

[0046] In addition, the terms “portion”, “device”, “block”, “member”, and “module” used herein refer to a unit for processing at least one function or operation. For example, the terms may mean at least one process that may be processed by at least one hardware such as field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or at least one software or processor stored in a memory.

[0047] Then terms “front,”“rear,”“left,”“right,” etc., used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0048] A humidifying device may be provided in various types. For example, the humidifying device may include a heating type humidifying device, an ultrasonic type humidifying device, a hybrid humidifying device that combines a heating type and an ultrasonic type, and a vaporization type humidifying device that performs humidification by naturally vaporizing water without using an ultrasonic wave or a heater.

[0049] Hereinafter, a heating type humidifying device will be described as an embodiment of the disclosure. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. An apparatus for humidifying and purifying air of the disclosure may include a heating type humidifying device, an ultrasonic type humidifying device, or a hybrid humidifying device.

[0050] Hereinafter, an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to various embodiments is described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0051] It should be appreciated that the blocks in each flowchart and combinations of the flowcharts may be performed by one or more computer programs which include instructions. The entirety of the one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device or the one or more computer programs may be divided with different portions stored in different multiple memory devices.

[0052] Any of the functions or operations described herein can be processed by one processor or a combination of processors. The one processor or the combination of processors is circuitry performing processing and includes circuitry like an application processor (AP, e.g. a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth® chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display driver integrated circuit (IC), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an IC, or the like.

[0053] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an external appearance of an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 1, an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air 1 (hereinafter referred to as “apparatus 1”) may include a housing 10. The housing 10 may form an external appearance of the apparatus 1. The housing 10 may include an inlet 11. External air may be introduced into the housing 10 through the inlet 11. The inlet 11 may penetrate the housing 10. The inlet 11 may be formed along a circumference of the housing 10. The inlet 11 may be provided at various positions of the housing 10. For example, the inlet 11 may be provided in a lower portion of the housing 10.

[0055] The housing 10 may include a first outlet 12. The first outlet 12 may be disposed above the inlet 11 and may be formed along the circumference of the housing 10. A portion of the air introduced into the housing 10 through the inlet 11 may be discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the first outlet 12.

[0056] The apparatus 1 may include a second outlet 101. A portion of the air introduced into the housing 10 through the inlet 11 and steam generated by a humidifying device 100 may be discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the second outlet 101. In addition, the apparatus 1 may include a cover 150 for covering a water tank 110 of the humidifying device 100, which will be described below.

[0057] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 2, the apparatus 1 may include a dust collector 20. The dust collector 20 may be disposed inside the housing 10. The dust collector 20 may be disposed in a lower portion in the housing 10. Air drawn in through the inlet 11 may pass through the dust collector 20. The dust collector 20 may collect aerosols and dust in the air. The dust collector 20 may filter aerosols and dust flowing with the air.

[0059] For example, the dust collector 20 may include a discharge electrode 21 and a dust collection electrode 22. The discharge electrode 21 may charge aerosols in the air. The dust collection electrode 22 may collect the aerosols charged by the discharge electrode 21. The discharge electrode 21 may be disposed below the dust collection electrode 22.

[0060] In addition, the dust collector 20 may include at least one of various filters, such as a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, a fine dust collection filter in the form of a non-woven fabric made of polypropylene resin or polyethylene resin, an activated carbon filter, a deodorizing filter, and an adsorption filter that adsorbs harmful substances.

[0061] The apparatus 1 may include a blower fan 30. Within the housing 10, the blower fan 30 may be disposed above the dust collector 20. The blower fan 30 may include an intake portion 30a that draws in air and a discharge portion 30b that discharges air. The blower fan 30 may be disposed in the housing 10 such that the intake portion 30a faces downward and the discharge portion 30b faces upward. The blower fan 30 may draw in the filtered air from the dust collector 20 and move the drawn-in air upward.

[0062] The blower fan 30 may be rotatably disposed within a fan housing 31. A lower end of the fan housing 31 may be coupled to an upper end of the dust collector 20. The fan housing 31 may guide the air discharged from the dust collector 20 to move upward through the blower fan 30.

[0063] The blower fan 30 may be rotated by an operation of a fan motor 32. The fan motor 32 may include a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor, which has easily controllable rotation speed and high efficiency.

[0064] The housing 10 may include the first outlet 12. The first outlet 12 may be located above the inlet 11, and may be formed along the circumference of the housing 10. A portion of the air that has passed through the dust collector 20 may be discharged to the outside of the apparatus 1 through the first outlet 12.

[0065] The apparatus 1 may include control circuitry 40. The control circuitry 40 may be disposed above the blower fan 30. The control circuitry 40 may control various operations of the apparatus 1. The control circuitry 40 may include various electronic components 41 for controlling the operation of the apparatus 1. For example, the electronic components 41 may include communication circuitry 330, a memory 410, and a processor 420, which will be described below.

[0066] The apparatus 1 may include the humidifying device 100. The humidifying device 100 may supply moisture to an indoor space by vaporizing water. The humidifying device 100 may be disposed above the dust collector 20, the blower fan 30, and the control circuitry 40 within the housing 10.

[0067] The humidifying device 100 may include the water tank 110 for storing water, and a case 121 for accommodating the water tank 110. The water tank 110 may be accommodated in the case 121. The case 121 may cover a portion of a side surface of the water tank 110. The case 121 may be mounted inside the housing 10. The water tank 110 may be separated from the case 121.

[0068] In addition, the humidifying device 100 may include an auxiliary case 115 for accommodating the water tank 110. The auxiliary case 115 may be located between the water tank 110 and the case 121. The water tank 110 may be accommodated in the auxiliary case 115, and the auxiliary case 115 may be accommodated in the case 121.

[0069] The humidifying device 100 may include a heating source 130 for heating the water inside the water tank 110. The heating source 130 may be disposed below the case 120. The heating source 130 may include a heater that generates heat and / or an induction heating coil that generates a magnetic field.

[0070] The humidifying device 100 may include a partitioning member 140 that partitions an inner space of the water tank 110 into a plurality of areas. The partitioning member 140 may be disposed inside the water tank 110. For example, the partitioning member 140 may partition the inner space of the water tank 110 into a steam generation area S1 and a storage area S2. The steam generation area S1 may correspond to an inside of the partitioning member 140, and the storage area S2 may correspond to an outside of the partitioning member 140.

[0071] In the steam generation area S1, steam may be generated according to an operation of the heating source 130. Water may be stored in the storage area S2. The partitioning member 140 may include a first portion 141 and a second portion 142. A detailed structure of the partitioning member 140 according to various embodiments will be described below.

[0072] The humidifying device 100 may include the cover 150 that covers an upper opening of the water tank 110. The cover 150 may be coupled to an upper portion of the water tank 110. The cover 150 may be disposed above the humidifying device 100 in a state of being coupled to the water tank 110. The cover 150 may be detachable from the water tank 110.

[0073] The cover 150 may include a steam discharge cap 151 connectable to the partitioning member 140. The steam discharge cap 151 may be couplable with the second portion 142 of the partitioning member 140.

[0074] The cover 150 may include a steam discharge flow path 152. Steam generated in the steam generation area S1 of the water tank 110 may be guided to the second outlet 101 through the steam discharge flow path 152.

[0075] The cover 150 may include a backflow prevention valve 153. When the water tank 110 is inverted (turned upside down), the backflow prevention valve 153 may prevent water in the partitioning member 140 from being discharged to the outside through the steam discharge flow path 152. The backflow prevention valve 153 may include a valve body 154 and an opening / closing member 155.

[0076] The apparatus 1 may include the second outlet 101 and a discharge guide 102. The discharge guide 102 may be disposed above the humidifying device 100. The discharge guide 102 may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape. The discharge guide 102 may be disposed to surround the cover 150 on an outer side of the cover 150. A diameter of the discharge guide 102 may be larger than that of the cover 150. The discharge guide 102 may be spaced apart from an outer side of the cover 150.

[0077] The second outlet 101 may correspond to a space between the discharge guide 102 and the outer side of the cover 150. The second outlet 101 may be formed in a circular shape along a circumference of the discharge guide 102 and the cover 150. The discharge guide 102 may extend in a vertical direction so that an air current discharged through the second outlet 101 is directed upward.

[0078] FIG. 3 illustrates a first flow path of air flowing by a blower fan and a second flow path of steam discharged from a humidifying device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 3, when the blower fan 30 operates, external air may be drawn into the housing 10 through the inlet 11. Because the inlet 11 is formed along the circumference of the housing 10, external air may be drawn into the housing 10 from all directions of the apparatus 1.

[0080] The air drawn in through the inlet 11 may pass through the dust collector 20 and the blower fan 30, and move upward. A portion of the air discharged from the blower fan 30 may be discharged to the outside of the apparatus 1 through the first outlet 12. Because the first outlet 12 is formed along the circumference of the housing 10, air may be discharged in all directions of the apparatus 1.

[0081] In addition, a portion of the air discharged from the blower fan 30 may move to an upper portion of the housing 10 through an air flow path 125 formed between the housing 10 and the humidifying device 100. The air flow path 125 may guide the air to the second outlet 101.

[0082] The humidifying device 100 may generate steam by heating the water stored in the water tank 110. The steam generated by the humidifying device 100 may be guided to the second outlet 101 through the steam discharge flow path 152.

[0083] The air moving to the upper portion of the housing 10 through the air flow path 125 and the steam discharged from the steam discharge flow path 152 may be mixed at the second outlet 101. In other words, mixed air including steam may be discharged to the outside of the apparatus 1 through the second outlet 101.

[0084] The apparatus 1 may include various sensors. For example, the apparatus 1 may include a first temperature sensor 210 and a second temperature sensor 220. The first temperature sensor 210 may detect a first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet 11. The second temperature sensor 220 may detect a second temperature of the mixed air including steam discharged through the second outlet 101. The first temperature sensor 210 may be disposed at the inlet 11 or a position adjacent to the inlet 11. The second temperature sensor 220 may be disposed at the second outlet 101.

[0085] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a lower portion of the water tank illustrated in FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 4, a lower portion 111 of the water tank 110 may include a plurality of layers. For example, the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110 may include a first layer 1111, a second layer 1112, and a third layer 1113.

[0087] The first layer 1111 may come into contact with the water inside the water tank 110. The first layer 1111 is a top layer of a bottom surface of the water tank 110, and the second layer 1112 may be disposed below the first layer 1111. The third layer 1113 may be disposed below the second layer 1112, and may form an external appearance of the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110.

[0088] The first layer 1111, the second layer 1112, and the third layer 1113 may be formed of various materials. For example, the first layer 1111 may be formed of STS304 material, which is strong against heat and corrosion among stainless steel materials. The second layer 1112 may be formed of aluminum material, which is a metal with excellent thermal conductivity. The third layer 1113 may be formed of STS430 material, which has excellent heat generation characteristics with respect to a magnetic field among stainless steel materials.

[0089] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the water tank, the case, and the heating source illustrated in FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0090] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the water tank and the case illustrated in FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0091] FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom view of the water tank, the case, and the heating source illustrated in FIG. 5 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 5, 6, and 7, the water tank 110 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The case 121 may be formed in a cylindrical shape corresponding to the shape of the water tank 110.

[0093] The heating source 130 for heating the water stored in the water tank 110 may be disposed below the case 121. The heating source 130 may include a heater that generates heat and / or an induction heating coil that generates a magnetic field.

[0094] The case 121 may be formed of a material having a relatively high magnetic field transmittance and heat resistance. For example, the case 121 may be formed of a material, such as heat-resistant glass, ceramic, or heat-resistant plastic.

[0095] The water tank 110 may include a metal material having a relatively high thermal conductivity. The water tank 110 may include a metal material that may be heated by a magnetic field. The entire water tank 110 may be formed of a metal material that may be heated by a magnetic field. For example, the metal heatable by a magnetic field may be a metal including iron, nickel, or the like, in which an induced current may be generated by a magnetic field. The water tank 110 may be formed of a stainless steel material.

[0096] When the heating source 130 operates, the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110 may be heated, and the water in the water tank 110 may be heated to generate steam.

[0097] The humidifying device 100 may include the auxiliary case 115. The auxiliary case 115 may be formed in a cylindrical shape and disposed to surround the water tank 110, and an upper portion and a lower portion of the auxiliary case 115 may be open. The auxiliary case 115 may be formed of a plastic material, not a metal material.

[0098] The case 121 may include a protrusion 122. The protrusion 122 of the case 121 may be formed on a bottom surface of the case 121. The protrusion 122 of the case 121 may be formed to protrude upward from the bottom surface of the case 121 toward the water tank 110. When viewed from below, the protrusion 122 of the case 121 appears to be recessed into the bottom surface of the case 121.

[0099] At least a portion of the heating source 130 may be received under the protrusion 122 of the case 121. The shape and size of the protrusion 122 of the case 121 may correspond to those of the heating source 130. For example, in a case where the heating source 130 has a circular shape, a diameter of the protrusion 122 of the case 121 may be formed to be equal to or larger than that of the heating source 130.

[0100] The water tank 110 may include a protrusion 112. The protrusion 112 of the water tank 110 may protrude upward from the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110 to correspond to the protrusion 122 of the case 121. When viewing the water tank 110 from below the water tank 110, the protrusion 112 of the water tank 110 appears to be recessed into the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110.

[0101] The protrusion 122 of the case 121 may be accommodated in the protrusion 112 of the water tank 110. A diameter of the protrusion 112 of the water tank 110 may be formed to be larger than that of the protrusion 122 of the case 121. The protrusion 112 of the water tank 110 may be referred to as a first protrusion, and the protrusion 122 of the case 121 may be referred to as a second protrusion.

[0102] Due to the protrusion 112 of the water tank 110 and the protrusion 122 of the case 121, a contact area between the heating source 130 and the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110 may be increased. Accordingly, the efficiency of heating the water by the heating source 130 may be improved.

[0103] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a partitioning member according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0104] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the partitioning member illustrated in FIG. 8 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0105] FIG. 10 illustrates a partitioning member disposed in a water tank according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0106] Referring to FIGS. 8, 9, and 10, the partitioning member 140 may include the first portion 141 and the second portion 142. The partitioning member 140 may have a triangular flask shape as a whole.

[0107] The first portion 141 of the partitioning member 140 may cover a heating area heated by the heating source 130 at the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110. The first portion 141 may include a lower portion 141a and an upper portion 141b. The lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 may have a round ring shape. The lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 may have a conical shape.

[0108] The lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 may accommodate the protrusion 112 of the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110. A diameter and / or size of the lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 may be larger than a diameter and / or size of the protrusion 112. The first portion 141 of the partitioning member 140 may cover the protrusion 112 formed on the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110. The position of the partitioning member 140 may be stably maintained by the first portion 141 of the partitioning member 140 and the protrusion 112 of the water tank 110. In addition, the water accommodated in an inner space of the first portion 141 may be intensively heated by the heating source 130, and steam may be generated rapidly.

[0109] The lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 may come into contact with the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110. A liquid accommodated in the steam generation area S1, which is an inner area of the partitioning member 140, and a liquid accommodated in the storage area S2, which is an outer area of the partitioning member 140, may not mix freely with each other.

[0110] A contact surface between the lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 and the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110 may not be sealed. A gap may exist between the lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 and the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110, and water may move through the gap. When a water level inside the partitioning member 140 is lower than a water level outside the partitioning member 140 as the heating source 130 operates, the water accommodated in the storage area S2 may move to the steam generation area S1.

[0111] A cross-sectional area of the partitioning member 140 may decrease from the lower portion 141a to the upper portion 141b of the first portion 141. In other words, a surface of the first portion 141 may be inclined relative to a vertical line or a horizontal line. A vertical line extending from an inner surface of the second portion 142 and an inner surface of the first portion 141 may have a first angle a1. For example, the first angle a1 may be an angle greater than 45°.

[0112] The first portion 141 may be formed in a flat shape to minimize internal volume while covering the heating area of the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110. For example, a ratio h / R of a height h of the first portion 141 to a radius R of the lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 may be 1.0 or less. Because the volume of water accommodated in the first portion 141 is relatively small, a time required to generate steam after the operation of the humidifying device 100 is started may be significantly reduced, and noise generated during water heating may be reduced. The smaller the ratio h / R of the height h of the first portion 141 to the radius R of the lower portion 141a of the first portion 141, the shorter the steam generation time may be.

[0113] The second portion 142 of the partitioning member 140 may extend upward from the upper portion 141b of the first portion 141. A lower end of the second portion 142 is connected to the first portion 141, and an upper end of the second portion 142 may be open. A position of the upper end of the second portion 142 in a state where the partitioning member 140 is disposed in the water tank 110 may be higher than a maximum water level of the water tank 110. The second portion 142 may guide the steam generated in the first portion 141 upward.

[0114] The second portion 142 of the partitioning member 140 may be in a cylindrical shape. When sectioned vertically, both inner side surfaces of the second portion 142 may be parallel to each other. In other words, an angle formed by the inner surface of the second portion 142 and the vertical line may be 0 degrees.

[0115] An inner diameter D of the second portion 142 may be selected within a range of 40 mm to 60 mm. For example, in a case where the inner diameter D of the second portion 142 is 50 mm, water may not overflow outside the second portion 142 even when the ratio h / R of the height h of the first portion 141 to the radius R of the lower portion 141a of the first portion 141 is formed to be 0.25.

[0116] The smaller the inner diameter D of the second portion 142, the smaller the volume of the steam generation area S1, and thus the time required to generate steam may be reduced. However, the smaller the inner diameter D of the second portion 142, the more water actively boiling at the lower portion 111 of the water tank 110 may overflow to the upper end of the second portion 142.

[0117] The partitioning member 140 may be formed of a metal material with excellent corrosion resistance. For example, the partitioning member 140 may be formed of a stainless steel material. The material of the partitioning member 140 is not limited to metal, and may also be formed of a heat-resistant plastic material or a ceramic material.

[0118] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the backflow prevention valve illustrated in FIG. 2 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 11, the steam discharge cap 151 may include a steam outlet 151a. The steam discharge cap 151 may be coupled with the second portion 142 of the partitioning member 140 in a state where the cover 150 is coupled to the water tank 110. Steam generated in the steam generation area S1 of the partitioning member 140 may be discharged to the steam outlet 151a through the second portion 142 of the partitioning member 140.

[0120] The steam discharge flow path 152 illustrated in FIG. 2 may be provided between the steam outlet 151a and the second outlet 101 to connect the steam outlet 151a and the second outlet 101. The steam generated in the partitioning member 140 may pass through the steam outlet 151a and the steam discharge flow path 152, and then be discharged to the outside of the apparatus 1 through the second outlet 101.

[0121] The backflow prevention valve 153 may be provided in the steam discharge cap 151. The backflow prevention valve 153 may be disposed below the steam outlet 151a. When the water tank 110 is inverted, the backflow prevention valve 153 may prevent water in the partitioning member 140 from being discharged to the outside through the steam discharge flow path 152. The backflow prevention valve 153 may include the valve body 154 and the opening / closing member 155.

[0122] A valve hole 1541 opened in a vertical direction may be formed in a center of the valve body 154. The opening / closing member 155 may move in the vertical direction along the valve hole 1541. An inlet 1541a of the valve hole 1541 may face an inner space of the second portion 142, and an outlet 1541b of the valve hole 1541 may face the steam outlet 151a.

[0123] In addition, the valve body 154 may include a plurality of through-holes 1542. The plurality of through-holes 1542 may be formed around the valve hole 1541. The plurality of through-holes 1542 may be disposed along a circumferential direction of the valve body 154. The plurality of through-holes 1542 may connect the inner space of the second portion 142 and the outlet 1541b of the valve hole 1541. The steam generated in the steam generation area S1 of the partitioning member 140 may be discharged to the steam outlet 151a through the plurality of through-holes 1542 and the outlet 1541b of the valve hole 1541.

[0124] FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a state of a backflow prevention valve when the apparatus for humidifying and purifying air is inverted according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 12, the water tank 110 may be inverted when separating the water tank 110 or when the apparatus 1 is inverted (turned upside down). When the water tank 110 is inverted, the opening / closing member 155 may move toward the steam outlet 151a and close the steam outlet 151a. The opening / closing member 155 closes the steam outlet 151a, thereby preventing leakage of water accommodated in the partitioning member 140 to the outside of the apparatus 1 through the steam outlet 151a.

[0126] FIG. 13 illustrates a partitioning member according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 13, a cross-sectional area of the first portion 141 of the partitioning member 140 may decrease from a lower portion to an upper portion. A vertical line with respect to the ground and an inner surface of the first portion 141 may form a first angle a1.

[0128] A cross-sectional area of the second portion 142 may also decrease from a lower portion to an upper portion. A vertical line with respect to the ground and an inner surface of the second portion 142 may form a second angle a2. The second portion 142 may be formed to have a gentle slope from a lower portion toward an upper portion. The second angle a2 may be smaller than the first angle a1.

[0129] FIG. 14 illustrates a partitioning member according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 14, the partitioning member 140 may include the first portion 141, the second portion 142, and a third portion 143. A cross-sectional area of the first portion 141 may decrease from a lower portion to an upper portion. The second portion 142 may be in a cylindrical shape. The third portion 143 may extend from the second portion 142 and may be located on top of the second portion 142. A cross-sectional area of the third portion 143 may increase from a lower portion to an upper portion.

[0131] FIG. 15 is a control block diagram of an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 15, the apparatus 1 may include the blower fan 30, the heating source 130, the first temperature sensor 210, the second temperature sensor 220, and the processor 420. In addition, the apparatus 1 may include the dust collector 20, a user interface 300, the communication circuitry 330, and the memory 410.

[0133] The memory 410 may store programs and data for controlling the operation of the apparatus 1. The processor 420 may be electrically connected to various components of the apparatus 1 to control each of the components.

[0134] The processor 420 may be hardware and may include a logic circuit and an arithmetic circuit. The processor 420 may control the electrically connected components of the apparatus 1 using the programs, instructions, and / or data stored in the memory 410 for the operation of the apparatus 1. The processor 420 and the memory 410 may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, one or more processors and one or more memories may be provided.

[0135] The processor 420 may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a many integrated core (MIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a neural processing unit (NPU), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator.

[0136] The memory 410 may store programs, applications, instructions, and / or data for the operation of the apparatus 1, and may store data generated by the processor 420. For example, the memory 410 may store programs, applications, instructions, and / or data for performing a purification operation and a humidification operation.

[0137] The memory 410 may include a non-volatile memory, such as a read only memory (ROM) and a flash memory for long-term data storage. The memory 410 may include a volatile memory, such as a static random access memory (S-RAM) and a dynamic random access memory (D-RAM) for temporarily storing data.

[0138] The memory 410 may be implemented in the form of a memory embedded in the apparatus 1 or in the form of a memory detachable from the apparatus 1, depending on a data storage use. For example, data for driving the apparatus 1 may be stored in a memory embedded in the apparatus 1, and data for an extended function of the apparatus 1 may be stored in a memory detachable from the apparatus 1.

[0139] The blower fan 30 may generate an air flow by rotating. When the blower fan 30 operates, air may move from the inlet 11 of the apparatus 1 to the first outlet 12 and the second outlet 101. The processor 420 may control the blower fan 30, and may adjust a rotation speed of the blower fan 30.

[0140] The dust collector 20 may purify the air drawn in through the inlet 11. For example, the dust collector 20 may collect aerosols in the air. The dust collector 20 may include an electric dust collector that generates ions to charge aerosols and collects the charged aerosols. The processor 420 may control an operation of the dust collector 20. The processor 420 may adjust the power supplied to the dust collector 20.

[0141] The heating source 130 may heat the water stored in the water tank 110. The heating source 130 may include a heater that generates heat and / or an induction heating coil that generates a magnetic field. The heater may heat the water by transferring heat to the water tank 110. The induction heating coil may apply an induced current to the water tank 110 to allow the water tank 110 to generate heat itself.

[0142] In a case where the induction heating coil is used, a water heating time may be shorter, compared to in a case where the heater is used. In addition, the induction heating coil heats the entire lower portion 111 of the water tank 110, which may reduce a heat generation density representing a heat generation amount per unit area. Decreasing the heat generation density may reduce noise generated during water heating.

[0143] The processor 420 may adjust a power level of the heating source 130. As the power level of the heating source 130 increases, the heat transferred to the water accommodated in the water tank 110 may increase. For example, the processor 420 may set the power level of the heating source 130 to a maximum at the start of a humidification operation, and may lower the power level of the heating source 130 when steam is generated.

[0144] The first temperature sensor 210 may detect a first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet 11. The first temperature sensor 210 may be disposed at the inlet 11 or a position adjacent to the inlet 11. The first temperature sensor 210 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the detected first temperature of the air to the processor 420. The processor 420 may identify the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet 11 based on the signal transmitted from the first temperature sensor 210. The processor 420 may identify the first temperature of the air at predetermined time intervals. In general, the apparatus 1 may be placed in an indoor space, and the first temperature may represent an indoor temperature.

[0145] The second temperature sensor 220 may detect a second temperature of a mixed air including steam discharged through the second outlet 101. The second temperature sensor 220 may be disposed at the second outlet 101. The second temperature sensor 220 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the detected second temperature of the mixed air to the processor 420. The processor 420 may identify the second temperature of the mixed air discharged through the second outlet 101 based on the signal transmitted from the second temperature sensor 220. The processor 420 may identify the second temperature of the mixed air at predetermined time intervals.

[0146] The user interface 300 may obtain a user input, and may output various information. The user interface 300 may include an input interface 310 and an output interface 320. A user may interact with the apparatus 1 through the user interface 300. The user interface 300 may be located at various positions of the housing 10.

[0147] The input interface 310 may obtain a user input. The input interface 310 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the user input to the processor 420. The user input may include various commands. For example, the input interface 310 may obtain a power on command, a power off command, a wind direction control command, a wind speed control command, a command to set an operation mode, and / or a command to set a target temperature. The user input may also be obtained from a user device (e.g., a mobile device, a smartphone). The processor 420 may control the apparatus 1 based on the user input obtained via the input interface 310.

[0148] The input interface 310 may include various buttons. For example, the input interface 310 may include a power button for turning the power of the apparatus 1 on or off, a button for setting an operation mode of the apparatus 1, a button for controlling a wind direction, a button for controlling a wind speed, and / or a temperature button for setting a target temperature. Each of the buttons may include a visual indicator (e.g., text, image, icon, etc.) that may indicate its function.

[0149] A ‘button’ may be implemented as a user interface element (UI element), a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, and / or a touch screen. In addition, the button may be replaced with a jog dial or a microphone.

[0150] The output interface 320 may be controlled by the processor 420 to output various information related to the operation of the apparatus 1. For example, the output interface 320 may output various information, such as an operation mode, a wind direction, a wind speed, an air contamination level, a humidity, a temperature, and an operation time of the apparatus 1. The output interface 320 may output visual information and / or auditory information.

[0151] The output interface 320 may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) panel, a micro-LED panel, and / or a speaker.

[0152] The output interface 320 may display information input by a user or information provided to the user on various screens. The output interface 320 may display information about the operation of the apparatus 1 as at least one of an image or text. The output interface may display a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables control of the apparatus 1.

[0153] The communication circuitry 330 may perform wired communication and / or wireless communication with an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, etc.). The communication circuitry 330 may be controlled to transmit data to the external device or receive data from the external device.

[0154] The communication circuitry 330 may include at least one of short-range wireless communication circuitry or long-range wireless communication circuitry. The communication circuitry 330 may support establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel, and communication through the established communication channel. The communication circuitry 330 may include wireless communication circuitry (e.g., cellular communication circuitry, short-range wireless communication circuitry, or global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication circuitry) and / or wired communication circuitry (e.g., local area network (LAN) communication circuitry, or power line communication circuitry).

[0155] The communication circuitry 330 may communicate with an external device through a short-range wireless communication network (e.g., Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a long-range wireless communication network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a fifth generation (5G) network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)).

[0156] The short-range wireless communication circuitry may include Bluetooth communication circuitry, Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication circuitry, near field communication circuitry, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication circuitry, Zigbee communication circuitry, infrared data association (IrDA) communication circuitry, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication circuitry, ultrawideband (UWB) communication circuitry, Ant+ communication circuitry, and micro wave (uWave) communication circuitry, but is not limited thereto.

[0157] The long-range wireless communication circuitry may include communication circuitry that performs various types of long-range communication, and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives radio signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, or a server on a mobile communication network.

[0158] In addition, the communication circuitry 330 may communicate with an external device through an access point (AP).

[0159] The configuration of the apparatus 1 is not limited to the above-described examples. The apparatus 1 may further include other components in addition to the above components, or may not include some of the above components. For example, the apparatus 1 may further include a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of water stored in the water tank 110, a humidity sensor for detecting a humidity of the air, and / or a contamination sensor for detecting an air contamination level.

[0160] The processor 420 may determine a rotation speed of the blower fan 30 based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet 11 of the housing 10, in response to a start of a humidification operation. The processor 420 may operate the humidifying device 100 to perform the humidification operation. The humidification operation may be performed according to a user input, or may be automatically performed according to an indoor humidity. In other words, the processor 420 may operate the heating source 130 to perform the humidification operation.

[0161] The memory 410 may store temperature and wind speed data regarding the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 corresponding to the first temperature of the drawn-in air. The processor 420 may determine the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 corresponding to the first temperature of the drawn-in air by referring to the temperature and wind speed data stored in the memory 410.

[0162] The processor 420 may set a target temperature of the mixed air based on a user input obtained via the user interface 300 or a mobile device. A user may operate the user interface 300 or the mobile device to input a command (target temperature setting command) for setting the target temperature of the mixed air discharged from the apparatus 1. The processor 420 may set the target temperature of the mixed air based on the target temperature setting command. Allowing the user to set the target temperature of the mixed air discharged from the apparatus 1 may improve user convenience and satisfaction.

[0163] The processor 420 may adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 based on the second temperature of the mixed air, discharged through the second outlet 101 of the housing 10, and a preset target temperature of the mixed air. For example, the processor 420 may determine a difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air. The processor 420 may determine an average value of the second temperatures of the mixed air detected over a defined time period. The difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air may also represent a difference between the average value of the second temperatures of the mixed air and the target temperature.

[0164] The processor 420 may increase or decrease the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 based on the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature being greater than or equal to a threshold value. The processor 420 may increase or decrease the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 by a larger amount, as the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air is larger.

[0165] The processor 420 may maintain the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 based on the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature being less than the threshold value.

[0166] Because the steam generated in the humidifying device 100 and the air flowing by the blower fan 30 are mixed at the second outlet 101, the temperature of the mixed air may decrease more quickly as the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 is faster. In a case where the second temperature of the mixed air is higher than the target temperature and the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the processor 420 may decrease the second temperature of the mixed air by increasing the rotation speed of the blower fan 30.

[0167] In a case where the second temperature of the mixed air is lower than the target temperature and the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the processor 420 may increase the second temperature of the mixed air by decreasing the rotation speed of the blower fan 30.

[0168] In addition, the processor 420 may adjust a power level of the heating source 130 based on the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air. For example, in a case where the second temperature of the mixed air is higher than the target temperature, the processor 420 may reduce the power level of the heating source 130 to lower the second temperature of the mixed air. In a case where the second temperature of the mixed air is lower than the target temperature, the processor 420 may increase the power level of the heating source 130 to raise the second temperature of the mixed air to the target temperature.

[0169] As such, the apparatus 1 may control at least one of the blower fan 30 or the heating source 130 to bring the temperature of the mixed air discharged from the apparatus 1 to the target temperature which is set according to a user input. By adjusting the temperature of the mixed air discharged from the apparatus 1 to the target temperature set by the user, user convenience and satisfaction may be improved.

[0170] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 16, the processor 420 of the apparatus 1 may set a target temperature of a mixed air, discharged from the apparatus 1, based on a user input obtained via the user interface 300 or a mobile device at operation 1601. A user may operate the user interface 300 or the mobile device to input a command (target temperature setting command) for setting the target temperature of the mixed air discharged from the apparatus 1. The processor 420 may set the target temperature of the mixed air based on the target temperature setting command.

[0172] The processor 420 may operate the humidifying device 100 to perform a humidification operation at operation 1602. The humidification operation may be performed according to a user input, or may be automatically performed according to an indoor humidity. In other words, the processor 420 may operate the heating source 130 to perform the humidification operation. In addition, the processor 420 may operate the blower fan 30 together.

[0173] As the heating source 130 operates, steam may be generated in the humidifying device 100. The steam discharged from the humidifying device 100 and the air flowing by the blower fan 30 may be mixed at the second outlet 101 of the housing 10. The mixed air may be discharged to the outside of the apparatus 1 through the second outlet 101 of the housing 10.

[0174] The processor 420 may control the first temperature sensor 210 to detect a first temperature of air drawn into the housing 10 through the inlet 11 of the housing 10 at operation 1603. The processor 420 may determine a rotation speed of the blower fan 30 based on the detected first temperature at operation 1604. The processor 420 may determine the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 corresponding to the first temperature of the drawn-in air by referring to temperature and wind speed data stored in the memory 410.

[0175] The processor 420 may control the second temperature sensor 220 to detect a second temperature of the mixed air discharged to the outside of the housing 10 through the outlet 12 of the housing 10 at operation 1605. Because the mixed air discharged to the outlet 12 includes hot steam, the second temperature of the mixed air may be relatively higher than the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet 11.

[0176] The processor 420 may adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 based on the second temperature of the mixed air and the target temperature of the mixed air at operation 1606.

[0177] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method for adjusting a rotation speed of the blower fan described in FIG. 16 in more detail according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 17, the processor 420 of the apparatus 1 may determine a difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air at operation 1701. The processor 420 may determine an average value of the second temperatures of the mixed air detected over a defined time period. The difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air may also represent a difference between the average value of the second temperature of the mixed air and the target temperature.

[0179] The processor 420 may compare the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air with a threshold value at operation 1702. The processor 420 may increase or decrease a rotation speed of the blower fan 30 based on the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air being greater than or equal to the threshold value at operation 1703. The processor 420 may maintain the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 based on the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air being less than the threshold value at operation 1704.

[0180] For example, because steam generated in the humidifying device 100 and air flowing by the blower fan 30 are mixed at the second outlet 101, the temperature of the mixed air may decrease more quickly as the rotation speed of the blower fan 30 is faster. In a case where the second temperature of the mixed air is higher than the target temperature and the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the processor 420 may decrease the second temperature of the mixed air by increasing the rotation speed of the blower fan 30. In a case where the second temperature of the mixed air is lower than the target temperature and the difference between the second temperature and the target temperature is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the processor 420 may increase the second temperature of the mixed air by decreasing the rotation speed of the blower fan 30.

[0181] As such, the apparatus 1 may control the blower fan 30 to bring the temperature of the mixed air discharged from the apparatus 1 to the target temperature set according to a user input. By adjusting the temperature of the mixed air discharged from the apparatus 1 to the target temperature set by the user, user convenience and satisfaction may be improved.

[0182] FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a modified embodiment of the method for controlling the apparatus for humidifying and purifying air described in FIG. 16 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 18, operations 1801, 1802, 1803, 1804, and 1805 correspond, respectively, to operations 1601, 1602, 1603, 1604, and 1605 described in FIG. 16. The processor 420 may adjust not only a rotation speed of the blower fan 30 but also a power level of the heating source 130 based on a second temperature of a mixed air and a target temperature at operation 1806.

[0184] For example, in a case where the second temperature of the mixed air is higher than the target temperature, the processor 420 may reduce the power level of the heating source 130 to lower the second temperature of the mixed air. In a case where the second temperature of the mixed air is lower than the target temperature, the processor 420 may increase the power level of the heating source 130 to raise the second temperature of the mixed air to the target temperature.

[0185] As such, the apparatus 1 may control at least one of the blower fan 30 or the heating source 130 to adjust the temperature of the mixed air discharged from the apparatus 1 to the target temperature which is set according to a user input.

[0186] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air may include: a housing including an inlet and an outlet; a blower fan configured to move air drawn in through the inlet to the outlet; a humidifying device disposed in the housing, and configured to heat water to discharge steam to the outlet; a first temperature sensor configured to detect a first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet; a second temperature sensor configured to detect a second temperature of a mixed air including the steam discharged through the outlet; and a processor configured to: determine a rotation speed of the blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation, and adjust the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air discharged through the outlet and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

[0187] The processor may be configured to determine a difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air, and increase or decrease the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being greater than or equal to a threshold value.

[0188] The processor may be configured to maintain the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being less than the threshold value.

[0189] The processor may be configured to determine an average value of second temperatures of the mixed air detected over a defined time period, and determine the difference using the average value of the second temperatures.

[0190] The processor may be configured to increase or decrease the rotation speed of the blower fan by a large amount, as the difference is larger.

[0191] The apparatus may include a heating source configured to heat the water. The processor may be configured to adjust a power level of the heating source based on the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air.

[0192] The apparatus may further include a user interface. The processor may be configured to set the target temperature of the mixed air based on a user input obtained via the user interface.

[0193] The apparatus may further include communication circuitry configured to communicate with a mobile device. The processor may be configured to set the target temperature of the mixed air based on a user input obtained via the mobile device.

[0194] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, in a method for controlling an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air including a housing, a blower fan, a humidifying device, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, and a processor, the method may include: detecting, by the first temperature sensor, a first temperature of air drawn in through an inlet of the housing; detecting, by the second temperature sensor, a second temperature of a mixed air including steam discharged through an outlet of the housing; determining, by the processor, a rotation speed of the blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation; and adjusting, by the processor, the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

[0195] The adjusting of the rotation speed of the blower fan may include: determining a difference between the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air; and increasing or decreasing the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being greater than or equal to a threshold value.

[0196] The adjusting of the rotation speed of the blower fan may include maintaining the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being less than the threshold value.

[0197] The determining of the difference may include: determining an average value of second temperatures of the mixed air detected over a defined time period; and determining the difference using the average value of the second temperatures.

[0198] The adjusting of the rotation speed of the blower fan may include increasing or decreasing the rotation speed of the blower fan by a large amount, as the difference is larger.

[0199] The method may further include adjusting a power level of a heating source included in the humidifying device, based on the second temperature and the target temperature of the mixed air.

[0200] The method may further include obtaining a user input via a user interface or a mobile device; and setting the target temperature of the mixed air based on the user input.

[0201] According to the disclosure, an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air and a method for controlling the same may adjust a temperature of air, discharged into an indoor space, to a target temperature set by a user. Accordingly, user convenience and satisfaction may be improved.

[0202] The effects that may achieved by the disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by one of ordinary skill in the technical art to which the disclosure belongs from the following description.

[0203] The disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program codes, and when executed by a processor, the instructions may create a program module to perform operations of the disclosed embodiments.

[0204] The machine-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory recording medium. Here, when a recording medium is referred to as “non-transitory”, it may be understood that the recording medium is tangible and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but rather that data is semi-permanently or temporarily stored in the recording medium. For example, a “non-transitory recording medium”may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0205] The method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed (e.g., download or upload) through an application store (e.g., Play Store™) online or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., downloadable app) may be stored at least semi-permanently or may be temporarily generated in a recording medium, such as a memory of a server of a manufacturer, a server of an application store, or a relay server.

[0206] It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the disclosure according to the claims and description in the specification can be realized in the form of hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software.

[0207] Any such software may be stored in non-transitory computer readable storage media. The non-transitory computer readable storage media store one or more computer programs (software modules), the one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an electronic device individually or collectively, cause the electronic device to perform a method of the disclosure.

[0208] Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or non-volatile storage such as, for example, a storage device like read only memory (ROM), whether erasable or rewritable or not, or in the form of memory such as, for example, random access memory (RAM), memory chips, device or integrated circuits or on an optically or magnetically readable medium such as, for example, a compact disk (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), magnetic disk or magnetic tape or the like. It will be appreciated that the storage devices and storage media are various embodiments of non-transitory machine-readable storage that are suitable for storing a computer program or computer programs comprising instructions that, when executed, implement various embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, various embodiments provide a program comprising code for implementing apparatus or a method as claimed in any one of the claims of this specification and a non-transitory machine-readable storage storing such a program.

[0209] While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An apparatus for humidifying and purifying air, the apparatus comprising:a housing including an inlet and an outlet;a blower fan configured to move air drawn in through the inlet to the outlet;a humidifying device disposed in the housing, and configured to heat water to discharge steam to the outlet;a first temperature sensor configured to detect a first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet;a second temperature sensor configured to detect a second temperature of a mixed air including the steam discharged through the outlet;memory, comprising one or more storage media, storing instructions; andone or more processors communicatively coupled to the memory,wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, cause the apparatus to:determine a rotation speed of the blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation, andadjust the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air discharged through the outlet and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, further cause the apparatus to:determine a difference between the second temperature and the preset target temperature of the mixed air, andincrease or decrease the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being greater than or equal to a threshold value.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, further cause the apparatus to:maintain the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being less than the threshold value.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, further cause the apparatus to:determine an average value of second temperatures of the mixed air detected over a defined time period, anddetermine the difference using the average value of the second temperatures.

5. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, further cause the apparatus to:increase or decrease the rotation speed of the blower fan by a large amount, as the difference is larger.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:a heating source configured to heat the water,wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, further cause the apparatus to:adjust a power level of the heating source based on the second temperature and the preset target temperature of the mixed air.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:a user interface,wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, further cause the apparatus to:set the preset target temperature of the mixed air based on a user input obtained via the user interface.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:communication circuitry configured to communicate with a mobile device,wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors individually or collectively, further cause the apparatus to:set the preset target temperature of the mixed air based on a user input obtained via the mobile device.

9. A method performed by an apparatus for humidifying and purifying air comprising a housing, a blower fan, a humidifying device, a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, and a processor, the method comprising:detecting, by the first temperature sensor, a first temperature of air drawn in through an inlet of the housing;detecting, by the second temperature sensor, a second temperature of a mixed air including steam discharged through an outlet of the housing;determining, by the processor, a rotation speed of the blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation; andadjusting, by the processor, the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the adjusting of the rotation speed of the blower fan comprises:determining a difference between the second temperature and the preset target temperature of the mixed air; andincreasing or decreasing the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being greater than or equal to a threshold value.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the adjusting of the rotation speed of the blower fan comprises:maintaining the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being less than the threshold value.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the determining of the difference comprises:determining an average value of second temperatures of the mixed air detected over a defined time period; anddetermining the difference using the average value of the second temperatures.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein the adjusting of the rotation speed of the blower fan comprises increasing or decreasing the rotation speed of the blower fan by a large amount, as the difference is larger.

14. The method of claim 9, further comprising:adjusting a power level of a heating source included in the humidifying device, based on the second temperature and the preset target temperature of the mixed air.

15. The method of claim 9, further comprising:obtaining a user input via a user interface or a mobile device; andsetting the preset target temperature of the mixed air based on the user input.

16. The method of claim 9, wherein the humidifying device includes a water tank and a heating source, and wherein the start of the humidification operation comprises activating the heating source to generate the steam from water in the water tank.

17. The method of claim 9, further comprising:purifying the air drawn in through the inlet using a dust collector before the air is moved by the blower fan.

18. The method of claim 9, wherein the mixed air is a combination of the steam discharged from the humidifying device and a portion of the air moved by the blower fan, the portion of the air being mixed with the steam at the outlet.

19. One or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media storing one or more computer programs including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an apparatus individually or collectively, cause the apparatus to perform operations, the operations comprising:detecting, by a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of air drawn in through an inlet of a housing;detecting, by a second temperature sensor, a second temperature of a mixed air including steam discharged through an outlet of the housing;determining, by a processor, a rotation speed of a blower fan based on the first temperature of the air drawn in through the inlet, in response to a start of a humidification operation; andadjusting, by the processor, the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the second temperature of the mixed air and a preset target temperature of the mixed air.

20. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 19, the operations further comprising:determining a difference between the second temperature and the preset target temperature of the mixed air; andincreasing or decreasing the rotation speed of the blower fan based on the difference being greater than or equal to a threshold value.

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