Blower and moving body

Abstract

According to the present invention, a fan case has a first case and a second case coupled to each other, and the first case and the second case of the fan case form a circulation passage and an exhaust passage extending in an exhausting direction. A motor is housed in the fan case, and has a rotary shaft having a shaft center as the center of rotation and extending in an axial direction in which the shaft center extends. A centrifugal fan is housed in the fan case. The centrifugal fan is attached to the rotary shaft. The first case and the second case have a circulation passage-side wall constituting the circulation passage, and an exhaust passage-side wall continuing from the circulation passage-side wall and constituting the exhaust passage. The circulation passage-side wall has a first thickness at least at one location. The exhaust passage-side wall has a second thickness thicker than the first thickness at least at one location.

Description

Fans and moving objects

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a blower and a moving object.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a blower unit (air blower) having a blower case (fan case) and a motor and centrifugal fan housed in the blower case. The blower unit generates airflow in the centrifugal fan by the rotation of the motor, and directs the airflow through ventilation paths (circular passages and linear exhaust passages) in the blower case and finally discharges the air from an exhaust port.

[0003] The blower unit described in Patent Document 1 is attached to the vehicle body via a separate fixing member, which is fixed to the blower case by welding.

[0004] In such a structure, the blower case of the blower may deform during welding. This may result in deformation of the blower case after the bracket is fixed. Specifically, when the fixing member is welded to the blower case, the welding surface of the fixing member is pressed against the welding protrusion on the blower case. At this time, the welding protrusion may be pressed against the fixing member. This may result in bending and deformation of the blower case, mainly around the mating surfaces of the upper and lower cases of the blower case.

[0005] In this case, the following two situations can occur. First, if the fixing member is fixed while the blower case is bent, the blower case, particularly the ventilation passage, will remain deformed even after welding is completed and the pressure from the fixing member to the blower case is removed. As a result, the blower case will not achieve the desired ventilation performance.

[0006] Second, when pressure from the fixing member to the blower case is removed, the blower case may return from its deflected state to its desired initial state due to spring back or the like. In this case, the fixing member attached to the blower case so as to be mountable in the desired fixing position while the blower case is deflected may end up being mounted in a state that includes deviation from the desired fixing position due to spring back or the like.

[0007] In particular, in a fan case, the strength of the straight exhaust passage is lower than that of the circular passage, so the amount of deflection around the welded protrusion in the exhaust passage increases.

[0008] International Publication No. 2020 / 121700

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a blower and a moving body in which deformation of the fan case after a fixing member is fixed is suppressed.

[0010] A blower according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a fan case, a motor, and a centrifugal fan. The fan case has a first case and a second case coupled to each other. The first case and the second case form a circulation passage and an exhaust passage extending in one direction. The motor is housed within the fan case and has a rotation shaft that rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction of the axis. The centrifugal fan is housed within the fan case. The centrifugal fan is attached to the rotation shaft. The first case and the second case include a circulation passage sidewall that forms the circulation passage, and an exhaust passage sidewall that is continuous with the circulation passage sidewall and forms the exhaust passage. The circulation passage sidewall has a first thickness at at least one location. The exhaust passage sidewall has a second thickness that is thicker than the first thickness at at least one location.

[0011] A moving body according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the blower, an object to be cooled by the blower, and a moving body main body on which the blower and the object to be cooled are mounted.

[0012] According to the present disclosure, a blower and a moving body can be obtained in which deformation of the fan case after the fixing member is fixed is suppressed.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first state (with bracket) of a blower according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the first state of the blower. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a second state (without bracket) of the blower. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the second state of the blower. FIG. 5A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the blower. FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of an area VB surrounded by a dashed line in FIG. 5A. FIG. 6 is a plan view of the first case, centrifugal fan, and motor of the blower according to the first embodiment, with the second case removed, as viewed from above. FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic representation of FIG. 6 to explain the thicknesses of the return passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the blower according to a second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram to explain the thicknesses of the return passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the blower according to a third embodiment. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a first case of the blower according to a third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second case of the blower according to the third embodiment. Fig. 11 is a front view of the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion of the fan in a first state (connected state). Fig. 12 is a front view of the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion of the fan in a second state (separated state). Fig. 13A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion of the fan. Fig. 13B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second fitting portion of the fan. Fig. 13C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion of the fan. Fig. 14A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion of the fan according to a fourth embodiment. Fig. 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second fitting portion of the fan. Fig. 14C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion of the fan. Fig. 15A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion of the fan according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second fitting portion of the fan of the same. Fig. 15C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion of the fan of the same. Fig. 16A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion of the fan of the sixth embodiment. Fig. 16B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second fitting portion of the fan of the same. Fig. 16C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion of the fan of the same. Fig. 17A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion of the fan of the seventh embodiment. Fig. 17B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second fitting portion of the fan of the same.Fig. 17C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion of the blower Fig. 18 is a schematic view of a vehicle according to an eighth embodiment.

[0014] Hereinafter, a blower and a vehicle according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The figures described in the following embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the sizes or thicknesses of the components do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. The configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0015] First Embodiment (1) Basic Configuration and Operation of Fan 1 The basic configuration and operation of fan 1 will be described using FIGS. 1 to 7. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing fan 1 according to the first embodiment in a first state (with bracket). FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing fan 1 in the first state. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing fan 1 in a second state (without bracket). FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing fan 1 in the second state. FIG. 5A is a vertical cross-sectional view of the fan. FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of area VB surrounded by a dashed line in FIG. 5A. FIG. 6 is a plan view of fan 1 with the second case removed, showing the first case 5, centrifugal fan 4, and motor 3 of fan 1 as viewed from above. FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic representation of FIG. 6 to explain the thicknesses of the circulation passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12.

[0016] The blower 1 is, for example, a blower for cooling a battery in a vehicle. Specifically, the blower 1 is a centrifugal fan blower.

[0017] The blower 1 mainly includes a fan case 2, a motor 3, and a centrifugal fan 4. The motor 3 and centrifugal fan 4 are housed inside the fan case 2. The fan case 2 has an intake port 63 for drawing in outside air, an exhaust port 64 for discharging air toward the outside space, and a circular passage 61 and an exhaust passage 62 ( FIGS. 6 and 7 ) that connect the intake port 63 and the exhaust port 64. The intake port 63 is circular. The exhaust port 64 is rectangular. Air is drawn into the fan case 2 through the intake port 63, flows through the circular passage 61 and the exhaust passage 62 in that order, and is discharged from the exhaust port 64.

[0018] The motor 3 is, for example, an inner rotor type brushless motor. The motor 3 is not limited to a brushless motor. The motor 3 may be another type of DC motor or AC motor. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, the direction in which the axis X1 ( FIG. 5A ) of the rotating shaft 44 of the motor 3 extends is defined as the axial direction A1 (axial direction). In a plane perpendicular to the axial direction A1, the direction perpendicular to the axis X1 is defined as the radial direction, and the direction going around the axis X1 is defined as the circumferential direction.

[0019] The centrifugal fan 4 is a component consisting of two opposing annular members with multiple blade members connected at a predetermined interval between them. The centrifugal fan 4 is connected to the rotating shaft 44 of the motor 3 so as to rotate integrally with the fan. The blade members can be made of either metal or resin. The centrifugal fan 4 rotates in the circumferential direction at a predetermined speed in response to the rotation of the motor 3, thereby drawing in outside air through the intake port 63 and pumping it out.

[0020] (2) Fan Case The fan case 2 is a hollow member formed by molding resin. The fan case 2 has an air intake port 63 on the top surface. The fan case 2 is substantially cylindrical and houses the motor 3 and centrifugal fan 4.

[0021] Specifically, the fan case 2 has an upper wall, side walls, and lower walls for the circulating passage 61 and the exhaust passage 62. The fan case 2 is configured to cover the centrifugal fan 4. As a result of this configuration, the circulating passage 61 and the exhaust passage 62 are formed inside the fan case 2 along the outer periphery of the centrifugal fan 4, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 . In a plan view, the circulating passage 61 extends in a circular shape to surround the outer periphery of the centrifugal fan 4. The exhaust passage 62 extends linearly in the exhaust direction B1 (one direction). The circulating passage 61 is an internal space that guides air drawn in through the intake port 63 to the exhaust passage 62 when the centrifugal fan 4 rotates due to the rotation transmitted from the motor 3. The cross-sectional area of ​​the circulating passage 61, including the axis X1, gradually increases toward the exhaust passage 62.

[0022] The air intake 63 is an inlet for drawing air into the vehicle cabin, for example. The air intake 63 is formed on the axial end face (the end face on the upper side in the figure) of the substantially cylindrical fan case 2 that faces the vehicle cabin. The air intake 63 is an opening with an inner diameter that is approximately the same as or slightly smaller than that of the centrifugal fan 4. The air intake 63 communicates with the vehicle cabin via a duct (not shown).

[0023] The exhaust port 64 opens in a direction that is twisted relative to the axial direction. That is, air drawn in along the axis X1 of the centrifugal fan 4 toward the fan case 2 is exhausted in a direction that is twisted relative to the axis X1.

[0024] The fan case 2 is made of a resin such as polypropylene. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5B , the fan case 2 is divided into a lower first case 5 and an upper second case 6. A plurality of protrusions 21 are provided at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction on the outer side of the first case 5. A plurality of hooks 22 are provided at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction on the side of the second case 6. The plurality of hooks 22 are engaged with the plurality of protrusions 21, respectively, thereby connecting the first case 5 and the second case 6.

[0025] The intake port 63 is formed by the second case 6. The exhaust port 64 is formed by fitting the second case 6 and the first case 5 together.

[0026] The centrifugal fan 4 is fixed to the motor 3. The motor 3 is fixed to the first case 5.

[0027] The fan case 2 has a seal sponge 8 for an exhaust port 64 for exhaust. More specifically, the first case 5 has the seal sponge 8. The exhaust port 64 has an opening surface whose normal is perpendicular to the axial direction A1. The fan case 2 has a flange 7 to which the seal sponge 8 is attached. The flange 7 and the seal sponge 8 are portions into which, for example, a duct (not shown) is fitted.

[0028] (3) First Case The first case 5 is a member that constitutes the lower portion of the circulation passage 61 and the exhaust passage 62. The first case 5 is cylindrical. The first case 5 has an annular flat surface portion 81 and a side surface portion 82. The side surface portion 82 is a generally cylindrical portion that extends in the axial direction A1 from the outer peripheral edge of the annular flat surface portion 81. As shown in FIG. 5B , the side surface portion 82 has an upper end surface 821 that serves as a mating surface. A groove 822 is formed in the upper end surface 821. The groove 822 is formed over the entire upper end surface 821.

[0029] A plurality of weld protrusions 25A, 25B are provided on the outer peripheral surface 823 of the side surface portion 82 corresponding to the exhaust passage 62 of the first case 5. The plurality of weld protrusions 25A, 25B include a pair of weld protrusions 25A aligned vertically near the exhaust port 64, and a pair of weld protrusions 25B aligned vertically near an inflection point Y1 (described below). A bracket 91 is fixed to the weld protrusions 25A, 25B by welding.

[0030] (4) Second Case The second case 6 is a member that constitutes the upper part of the circulation passage 61 and the exhaust passage 62. The second case 6 mainly has an annular flat surface portion 83 and a side surface portion 84. The annular flat surface portion 83 is a generally flat annular portion that constitutes the intake port 63. The side surface portion 84 is a generally cylindrical portion that extends in the axial direction A1 from the outer circumferential edge of the annular flat surface portion 83. The side surface portion 84 is shorter in the axial direction A1 than the side surface portion 82 of the first case 5.

[0031] As shown in Fig. 5B, the side surface portion 84 has a lower end surface 841 serving as a mating surface. A protrusion 842 is provided on the lower end surface 841. The protrusion 842 extends from the lower end surface 841 along the axial direction A1 toward the first case 5. When the second case 6 is joined to the first case 5, the protrusion 842 of the second case 6 is inserted into the groove 822. This creates a labyrinth structure at the mating surface between the first case 5 and the second case 6 to prevent wind leakage.

[0032] (5) Circulating Passage and Exhaust Passage In the circulating passage 61 , as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the side surface portion 82 of the first case 5 and the side surface portion 84 of the second case 6 form the circulating passage side wall 11 .

[0033] In the exhaust passage 62, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the side surface portion 82 of the first case 5 and the side surface portion 84 of the second case 6 form the exhaust passage side wall 12 that continues from the circular passage side wall 11. When viewed in the axial direction A1, the circular passage side wall 11 is a combination of curves with different curvatures. The exhaust passage side wall 12 is generally linear. An inflection point Y1 shown in Figures 6 and 7 indicates the boundary between the circular passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12. A straight line Z1 extending from the inflection point Y1 shown in Figures 6 and 7 and crossing the passage indicates the boundary between the circular passage 61 and the exhaust passage 62.

[0034] (6) Brackets As shown in Figures 1 and 2, brackets 91 and 92 are attached to the blower 1. The brackets 91 and 92 are fixing members for fixing the blower 1 to the frame of the vehicle. The brackets 91 and 92 are made of resin. The brackets 91 and 92 are made of, for example, polypropylene. Figures 3 and 4 show the blower 1 with the brackets 91 and 92 removed.

[0035] The following describes a method for fixing the bracket 91 to the fan 1. The method for fixing the bracket 92 is the same as the method for fixing the bracket 91, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0036] First, the bracket 91 is attached to the attachment jig, and then the fan case 2 is set in a predetermined position in accordance with the position of the attachment jig.

[0037] The mounting jig is then moved toward the fan case 2, and the bracket is brought into contact with the weld projections 25A and 25B. At this time, the mounting jig and the bracket 91 held by it are pressed against the fan case 2 with a predetermined pressure. With the weld projections 25A and 25B and the bracket 91 in contact, laser light of a predetermined wavelength is irradiated from the racket 91 side toward the contact point. The wavelength of this laser light is set so that it is absorbed by the fan case 2, which contains a component that absorbs laser light, but is also transmitted through the bracket 91.

[0038] The laser light passes through the bracket 91 and is absorbed by the protrusions 25A and 25B. The protrusions 25A and 25B, which directly absorb the laser light, generate heat and begin to melt. The bracket 91, which is in contact with the protrusions 25A and 25B, also generates heat through thermal conduction, causing portions of the protrusions 25A and 25B to soften or melt. When the bracket 91 is pressed against the fan case 2 in this state, the melted portions of the protrusions 25A and 25B mix with the portions of the bracket 91 that have softened and melted due to heat.

[0039] After the laser light irradiation is completed, the bracket 91 is maintained pressed against the fan case 2 for a predetermined time. During this time, the welding projections 25A, 25B and the bracket are naturally cooled, and the softened and melted portions of the welding projections 25A, 25B and the bracket 91 are solidified. After the predetermined time has passed, the welding projections 25A, 25B and the bracket 91 are welded to each other and connected.

[0040] (7) Thickness of Passage Side Walls The thicknesses of the circulation passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG.

[0041] The circumference of the side wall 11 is substantially the same thickness, which is referred to as a first thickness t1.

[0042] The thickness of the exhaust passage side wall 12 increases in the exhaust direction B1 from the circular passage 61 toward the exhaust port 64 of the exhaust passage 62. Specifically, in Figure 7, the thickness of the exhaust passage side wall 12 increases in the order of thickness t2, thickness t3, and thickness t4 from the inflection point Y1 toward the exhaust port 64 of the exhaust passage 62 in the exhaust direction B1. The minimum thickness of the exhaust passage side wall 12 is thicker than the first thickness t1 of the circular passage side wall 11. In other words, thicknesses t2, t3, and t4 are thicker than the first thickness t1.

[0043] According to the above configuration, the exhaust passage side wall 12 has a portion that is thicker than the surrounding passage side wall 11, increasing the rigidity of the exhaust passage side wall 12. Therefore, when the bracket 91 is welded to the exhaust passage side wall 12, the exhaust passage side wall 12 is less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case 2 is suppressed. As a result, high ventilation performance of the blower 1 is maintained. In particular, when the exhaust passage side wall 12 and the surrounding passage side wall 11 have the same thickness, the exhaust passage side wall 12 is linear and therefore less rigid than the curved surrounding passage side wall 11, so the effect of the above configuration is highly valuable.

[0044] Other effects of the exhaust passage side wall 12 being less likely to bend and deform include, first, no spring back occurs after the pressure applied during welding is removed, stabilizing the position (dimension) of the bracket 91. Furthermore, the welding penetration is stabilized, stabilizing the welding strength.

[0045] In addition to the above, reducing the deflection of the case due to vibrations from the vehicle reduces the slippage between the first case 5 and the second case 6. As a result, noise suppression and improved vibration resistance are achieved.

[0046] The cross-sectional shape of the exhaust passage sidewall 12 will be further explained using Figure 7. In a cross section along a plane including a straight line perpendicular to the axis X1, the exhaust passage sidewall 12 has an inner surface 121 along the exhaust direction B1 and an outer surface 122 that moves away from the inner surface 121 as it extends from the circulation passage 61 toward the exhaust port 64. Because the inner surface 121 is linear along the exhaust direction B1, ventilation performance is unlikely to deteriorate. Because the thickness of the exhaust passage sidewall 12 is increased on the outer surface 122 side, a sufficient cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage 62 can be ensured.

[0047] Second Embodiment A second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating the thicknesses of the return passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12 of a blower according to the second embodiment.

[0048] The basic configuration and basic operation of the second embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the following description will focus on the differences.

[0049] In FIG. 8, the axis X1, the circulation passage 61, the exhaust passage 62, and the centrifugal fan 4 are shown.

[0050] As in the first embodiment, the exhaust passage side wall 12 is a part that constitutes the exhaust passage 62. An inflection point Y1 shown in the figure indicates the boundary between the circulation passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12. A straight line Z1 extending from the inflection point Y1 shown in the figure and crossing the passage indicates the boundary between the circulation passage 61 and the exhaust passage 62.

[0051] The circumference of the side wall 11 is substantially the same thickness, which is referred to as a first thickness t1.

[0052] The exhaust passage side wall 12 has a first portion 121A of a generally constant thickness and a second portion 122A of a certain thickness that protrudes into the exhaust passage 62. The second portion 122A has a smoothly convex cross section. The thickness t5 of the second portion 122A is greater than the first thickness t1 of the circulation passage side wall 11.

[0053] With the above configuration, the exhaust passage side wall 12 has portions that are thicker than the circulation passage side wall 11. This increases the rigidity of the exhaust passage side wall 12. Therefore, when a bracket is welded to the exhaust passage side wall 12, the exhaust passage side wall 12 is less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case is suppressed.

[0054] The position, shape, and number of the second portions 122A are not particularly limited.

[0055] The portions of the exhaust passage side wall 12 other than the second portion 122A may be gradually thicker toward the exhaust port 64 or may have a constant thickness.

[0056] Third Embodiment A third embodiment will be described using FIGS. 9 to 13C. The basic configuration and basic operation of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, so differences will be mainly described. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a first case 5A of a blower according to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second case 6A of the blower. FIG. 11 is a front view of the first fitting portion 26A and the second fitting portion 27A of the blower in a first state (connected state). FIG. 12 is a front view of the first fitting portion 26A and the second fitting portion 27A of the blower in a second state (separated state). FIG. 13A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion 26A of the blower. FIG. 13B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second fitting portion 27A of the blower. FIG. 13C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion 26A and the second fitting portion 27A of the blower.

[0057] The third to seventh embodiments described below may or may not be combined with the first and second embodiments. That is, they may or may not include limitations on the thicknesses of the surrounding passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12.

[0058] (1) First Case The first case 5A is a member that constitutes the lower portion of the circulation passage and the exhaust passage 62A (FIGS. 13A and 13C). As shown in FIG. 9, the first case 5A is cylindrical. The first case 5A has an annular flat surface portion 81A and a side surface portion 82A. The side surface portion 82A is a generally cylindrical portion that extends in the axial direction A1 from the outer peripheral edge of the annular flat surface portion 81A.

[0059] A plurality of welding projections 25A, 25B are provided on an outer peripheral surface 823A (corresponding to an exhaust passage sidewall 12A described later) of a side surface portion 82A of the first case 5A that corresponds to the exhaust passage 62A. The plurality of welding projections 25A, 25B include a pair of welding projections 25A located near the exhaust port 64A and aligned in the vertical direction, and a pair of welding projections 25B located near the inflection point Y1 and aligned in the vertical direction. Brackets are fixed to the welding projections 25A, 25B by welding.

[0060] A plurality of protrusions 21A are provided on the outer side surface of the first case 5A at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0061] (2) Second Case The second case 6A is a member that constitutes the upper portion of the circulation passage and the exhaust passage 62A. As shown in FIG. 10 , the second case 6A is cylindrical. The second case 6A has an annular flat surface portion 83A and a side surface portion 84A. The annular flat surface portion 83A is a generally flat annular portion that constitutes the intake port 63A. The side surface portion 84A is a generally cylindrical portion that extends in the axial direction A1 from the outer circumferential edge of the annular flat surface portion 83A. The side surface portion 84A is shorter in the axial direction A1 than the side surface portion 82A of the first case 5A.

[0062] In the exhaust passage, the side surface 82A of the first case 5A and the side surface 84A of the second case 6A form the exhaust passage side wall. In the exhaust passage 62A, the side surface 82A of the first case 5A and the side surface 84A of the second case 6A form the exhaust passage side wall 12A (FIG. 13C) that continues from the exhaust passage side wall.

[0063] A plurality of hooks 22A are provided on the outer side surface of the second case 6A at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0064] (3) First Fitting Portion and Second Fitting Portion The first case 5A has a first fitting portion 26A. The second case 6A has a second fitting portion 27A.

[0065] The first fitting portion 26A and the second fitting portion 27A will be described in detail using Figures 11 and 12. Figure 11 shows the state in which the second case 6A is fitted into the first case 5A. Figure 12 shows the state in which the second case 6A has been removed upward from the first case 5A.

[0066] The first fitting portion 26A is located on the exhaust passage sidewall 12A at a position corresponding to the axial direction A1 with respect to the welded protrusion 25A. More specifically, the first fitting portion 26A is provided in a portion 15A near the upper end surface of the first case 5A on the exhaust port 64A side. The portion 15A near the upper end surface is continuous with the first portion 71A of the flange 7A in the exhaust direction B1.

[0067] The first fitting portion 26A has a groove 30A provided in the first case 5A. The groove 30A is recessed in the axial direction A1. The groove 30A extends in the exhaust direction B1. More specifically, the groove 30A is continuous with a groove 822A formed over the entire upper end surface of the first case 5A. The groove 30A is longer in the axial direction than the groove 822A.

[0068] The second fitting portion 27A is located on the exhaust passage sidewall 12A at a position corresponding to the axial direction A1 with respect to the welded protrusion 25A. More specifically, the second fitting portion 27A is provided in a portion 16A near the bottom end surface of the second case 6A on the exhaust port 64A side. The portion 16A near the bottom end surface is continuous with the second portion 72A of the flange 7A in the exhaust direction B1.

[0069] The second fitting portion 27A is provided on the second case 6A and has a plate portion 40A that fits into the groove portion 30A in the axial direction A1. More specifically, the plate portion 40A is a protrusion that continues from a protrusion 842A formed on the entire lower end surface of the second case 6A. The plate portion 40A is longer in the axial direction than the protrusion 842A. The groove portion 30A and the plate portion 40A extend along the axial direction A1 and the exhaust direction B1. In a side view, the groove portion 30A and the plate portion 40A have a trapezoidal shape whose width in the exhaust direction B1 narrows from top to bottom.

[0070] 13A, groove portion 30A has a first groove portion 31A extending in exhaust direction B1 and a second groove portion 32A extending from first groove portion 31A in a direction intersecting first groove portion 31A. Specifically, second groove portion 32A is formed by a protruding portion 33A that is bent such that the portion of first fitting portion 26A opposite exhaust passage 62A is convex on the outside and concave on the inside.

[0071] As shown in FIGS. 13B and 13C, the plate portion 40A has a first portion 41A that fits into the first groove portion 31A, and a second portion 42A that fits into the second groove portion 32A.

[0072] According to the above structure, the first mating portion 26A and the second mating portion 27A have the second groove portion 32A and the second portion 42A, respectively, which are convex portions, at positions axially corresponding to the weld protrusion 25A. This increases the rigidity of the exhaust passage side wall 12A. Therefore, when a bracket is welded to the weld protrusion 25A on the exhaust passage side wall 12A, the exhaust passage side wall 12A is less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case is suppressed.

[0073] 13A and 13C, the protrusion 33A is located in an outer region 35A outside the exhaust passage 62A. Therefore, no structure that disrupts ventilation exists in the inner region 34A inside the exhaust passage 62A. Therefore, desired ventilation performance can be obtained.

[0074] (Fourth Embodiment) The fourth embodiment will be described using Figures 14A to 14C. The basic configuration and basic operation of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the third embodiment, so differences will be mainly described. Figure 14A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first fitting portion 26B of a blower according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second fitting portion 27B of the same blower. Figure 14C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion 26B and the second fitting portion 27B of the same blower. The exhaust passage side wall 12B (Figure 14C) has a first fitting portion 26B located axially corresponding to the welded protrusion. The first fitting portion 26B has a groove portion 30B provided in the first case. The groove portion 30B is a groove portion recessed in the axial direction A1. The groove portion 30B extends in the exhaust direction B1.

[0075] The exhaust passage side wall 12B has a second fitting portion 27B located axially corresponding to the weld protrusion. The second fitting portion 27B has a plate portion 40B provided on the second case that fits axially into the groove portion 30B. The groove portion 30B and the plate portion 40B extend in the axial direction and along the exhaust direction B1. In a side view, the groove portion 30B and the plate portion 40B have a trapezoidal shape whose width in the exhaust direction B1 narrows from top to bottom.

[0076] 14A , the groove portion 30B has a first groove portion 31B extending in the exhaust direction B1, and a pair of second groove portions 32B extending from the first groove portion 31B in a direction intersecting the first groove portion 31B. Each of the pair of second groove portions 32B is formed by a protrusion 33B that is bent so that the portion of the first fitting portion 26B opposite the exhaust passage 62B is convex outward and concave inward.

[0077] As shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C, the plate portion 40B has a first portion 41B that fits into the first groove portion 31B, and a pair of second portions 42B that fit into the pair of second groove portions 32B.

[0078] According to the above configuration, the first fitting portion 26B and the second fitting portion 27B have the second groove portion 32B and the second portion 42B, which form a pair of convex portions, respectively, at positions axially corresponding to the weld protrusions. This increases the rigidity of the first fitting portion 26B and the second fitting portion 27B. Therefore, when a bracket is welded to the weld protrusion located on the opposite side of the exhaust passage side wall 12B, the exhaust passage side wall 12B is less likely to bend or deform. This reduces deformation of the fan case.

[0079] In this embodiment, the number of second groove portions 32B and second portions 42B that become convex portions is greater than in the third embodiment, so the rigidity of the first fitting portion 26B and the second fitting portion 27B is higher than in the third embodiment.

[0080] 14A and 14C, in this embodiment, the protrusion 33B is located in an outer region 35B outside the exhaust passage 62B. Therefore, no structure that disrupts ventilation exists in an inner region 34B inside the exhaust passage 62B. Therefore, desired ventilation performance can be obtained.

[0081] Fifth Embodiment The fifth embodiment will be described using Figures 15A to 15C. The basic configuration and basic operation of the fifth embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, so differences will be mainly described. Figure 15A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first fitting portion 26C of a blower according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second fitting portion 27C of the same blower. Figure 15C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion 26C and the second fitting portion 27C of the same blower. The exhaust passage side wall 12C (Figure 15C) has a first fitting portion 26C located axially corresponding to the welded protrusion. The first fitting portion 26C has a groove portion 30C provided in the first case. The groove portion 30C is a groove portion recessed in the axial direction. The groove portion 30C extends in the exhaust direction B1.

[0082] The exhaust passage side wall 12C has a second fitting portion 27C located axially corresponding to the weld protrusion. The second fitting portion 27C has a plate portion 40C provided on the second case and fitted axially into the groove portion 30C. The groove portion 30C and the plate portion 40C extend in the axial direction and along the exhaust direction B1. In a side view, the groove portion 30C and the plate portion 40C have a trapezoidal shape whose width in the exhaust direction B1 narrows from top to bottom.

[0083] 15A , the groove 30C has a first groove 31C extending in the exhaust direction B1 and a second groove 32C extending from the first groove 31C in a direction intersecting (specifically, perpendicular to) the exhaust direction B1. The second groove 32C is formed by a protrusion 33C that is bent so that the portion of the first fitting portion 26C facing the exhaust passage 62C is convex outward and concave inward. The portion of the first fitting portion 26C facing the exhaust passage 62C has a protrusion 36C that fits into the second groove 32C.

[0084] 15B and 15C, the plate portion 40C has a first portion 41C that fits into the first groove portion 31C and a second portion 42C that fits into the second groove portion 32C. The second portion 42C has a shape that fits into the space formed by the second groove portion 32C and the protrusion portion 36C.

[0085] According to the above structure, the first mating portion 26C and the second mating portion 27C have the second groove portion 32C and the second portion 42C, respectively, which form convex portions, at positions axially corresponding to the weld protrusion. This increases the rigidity of the first mating portion 26C and the second mating portion 27C. Therefore, when a bracket is welded to the weld protrusion located on the opposite side of the exhaust passage side wall 12C, the exhaust passage side wall 12C is less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case is suppressed.

[0086] In this embodiment, a protrusion 36C is provided, and the second portion 42C has a complexly bent shape, so that the rigidity of the first fitting portion 26C and the second fitting portion 27C is higher than that of the third embodiment.

[0087] 15A and 15C, in this embodiment, the protrusion 33C is located in an outer region 35C outside the exhaust passage 62C. Therefore, no structure that disrupts ventilation exists in the inner region 34C inside the exhaust passage 62C. Therefore, desired ventilation performance can be obtained.

[0088] Sixth Embodiment A sixth embodiment will be described using Figures 16A to 16C. The basic configuration and basic operation of the sixth embodiment are the same as those of the fifth embodiment, so differences will be mainly described. Figure 16A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first fitting portion 26D of a blower according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 16B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second fitting portion 27D of the same blower. Figure 16C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion 26D and the second fitting portion 27D of the same blower.

[0089] The exhaust passage side wall 12D (FIG. 16C) has a first fitting portion 26D located axially corresponding to the welding protrusion. The first fitting portion 26D has a groove 30D provided in the first case. The groove 30D is a groove recessed in the axial direction and extends in the exhaust direction B1.

[0090] The exhaust passage side wall 12D has a second fitting portion 27D located axially corresponding to the weld protrusion. The second fitting portion 27D has a plate portion 40D provided on the second case and fitted into the groove portion 30D in the axial direction. The groove portion 30D and the plate portion 40D extend in the axial direction and along the exhaust direction B1. In a side view, the groove portion 30D and the plate portion 40D have a trapezoidal shape whose width in the exhaust direction B1 narrows from top to bottom.

[0091] 16A , groove 30D has a first groove 31D extending in exhaust direction B1 and a pair of second grooves 32D extending from first groove 31D in a direction intersecting first groove 31D. Second groove 32D is formed by a protrusion 33D that is bent so that the portion of first fitting portion 26D facing away from exhaust passage 62D is convex outward and concave inward. The portion of first fitting portion 26D facing the exhaust passage 62D has a pair of protrusions 36D that fit into second groove 32D.

[0092] 16B and 16C, the plate portion 40D has a first portion 41D that fits into the first groove portion 31D and a pair of second portions 42D that fit into the second groove portion 32D. The second portions 42D have a shape that fits into the space formed by the second groove portion 32D and the protrusion portion 36D.

[0093] According to the above structure, the first fitting portion 26D and the second fitting portion 27D have a pair of protrusions, the second groove portion 32D and the second portion 42D, respectively, at positions axially corresponding to the weld protrusions. This increases the rigidity of the first fitting portion 26D and the second fitting portion 27D. Therefore, when a bracket is welded to the weld protrusion located on the opposite side of the exhaust passage side wall 12D, the exhaust passage side wall 12D is less likely to bend or deform. This reduces deformation of the fan case.

[0094] In this embodiment, the number of second groove portions 32D and second portions 42D that become convex portions is greater than in the sixth embodiment. Therefore, the rigidity of the first fitting portion 26D and the second fitting portion 27D is higher than in the sixth embodiment.

[0095] 16A and 16C, in this embodiment, the protrusion 33D is located in an outer region 35D that is located outside the exhaust passage 62D. Therefore, no structure that disrupts ventilation exists in an inner region 34D that is located inside the exhaust passage 62D. Therefore, desired ventilation performance can be obtained.

[0096] Seventh Embodiment A seventh embodiment will be described using Figures 17A to 17C. The basic configuration and basic operation of the seventh embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment, so differences will be mainly described. Figure 17A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first fitting portion 26E of a blower according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 17B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second fitting portion 27E of the same blower. Figure 17C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the first fitting portion 26E and the second fitting portion 27E of the same blower.

[0097] The exhaust passage side wall 12E (FIG. 17C) has a first fitting portion 26E located axially corresponding to the welding protrusion. The first fitting portion 26E has a groove 30E provided in the first case. The groove 30E is a groove recessed in the axial direction and extends in the exhaust direction B1.

[0098] The exhaust passage side wall 12E has a second fitting portion 27E located axially corresponding to the weld protrusion. The second fitting portion 27E is provided on the second case and has a plate portion 40E that fits into the groove portion 30E in the axial direction. The groove portion 30E and the plate portion 40E extend in the axial direction and along the exhaust direction B1. In a side view, the groove portion 30E and the plate portion 40E have a trapezoidal shape whose width in the exhaust direction B1 narrows from top to bottom.

[0099] 17A, the groove 30E extends in a serpentine manner in the exhaust direction B1. The groove 30E has a curved first groove 31E and a pair of curved second grooves 32E on either side of the first groove 31E.

[0100] 17B and 17C , the plate portion 40E extends in a serpentine manner in the exhaust direction B1. The plate portion 40E has a curved third protrusion 41E and a pair of curved fourth protrusions 42E on both sides of the third protrusion 41E. The third protrusion 41E fits into the first groove 31E. The pair of fourth protrusions 42E fit into the pair of second grooves 32E.

[0101] According to the above configuration, the first mating portion 26E and the second mating portion 27E each have a concave / convex portion in the thickness direction of the side wall at a position axially corresponding to the weld protrusion. This increases the rigidity of the first mating portion 26E and the second mating portion 27E. Therefore, when a bracket is welded to the weld protrusion located on the opposite side of the exhaust passage side wall 12E, the exhaust passage side wall 12E is less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case is suppressed.

[0102] 17A and 17C, the exhaust passage side wall 12E has a convex portion not only in an outer region 35E on the outside of the exhaust passage 62E but also in an inner region 34E on the inside. The exhaust passage side wall 12E is preferably designed not to disturb the ventilation.

[0103] Eighth Embodiment A vehicle 51 (mobile object) equipped with the blower 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle 51 according to the eighth embodiment.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 18, the vehicle 51 includes the blower 1, a battery 52 (object to be cooled), a control device 53, a cable 54, a cable 56, and a vehicle body 55 (main body of the vehicle).

[0105] In the example of Fig. 18, the vehicle 51 is a four-wheeled hybrid vehicle in which an engine and a drive battery 52 are mounted on a vehicle body 55. Note that the vehicle 51 is not limited to a hybrid vehicle, and may be an electric vehicle. The vehicle 51 on which the blower 1 is mounted is not limited to a four-wheeled vehicle, and may be, for example, a vehicle (automobile) such as a two-wheeled vehicle or a three-wheeled vehicle. The object to be cooled may be a part other than the battery 52.

[0106] The vehicle body 55 is provided with the blower 1, the battery 52, the control device 53, the cable 54, and the cable 56.

[0107] The battery 52 is configured by, for example, a lithium ion battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, etc. The battery 52 supplies power to a drive motor and the like for running the vehicle 51.

[0108] The control device 53 is electrically connected to the blower 1 via a cable 54. The control device 53 controls the blower 1. More specifically, the control device 53 is electrically connected to a motor drive circuit of the blower 1 via a cable 54. The control device 53 controls the battery 52 via a cable 56. More specifically, the control device 53 controls the power supply from another battery to the blower 1, the drive motor, etc.

[0109] The blower 1 used in the vehicle 51 functions as a cooling fan system to suppress a rise in temperature of the battery 52. ​​Air is blown from the blower 1 toward the battery 52. ​​This air-cools the battery 52, suppressing a rise in temperature of the battery 52.

[0110] (Modifications) Modifications of the configurations of each of the first to eighth embodiments will be described. Combinations of the embodiments, combinations of the embodiments and modifications, and combinations of modifications can be implemented as appropriate.

[0111] The first fitting portion 26A and the second fitting portion 27A may be located at positions where the welding projection 25A is extended in the axial direction A1, or may be located at positions shifted from each other.

[0112] The exhaust passage side wall 12 may have a uniform thickness as a whole, or may be made up of a plurality of portions with different thicknesses.

[0113] The shapes and dimensions of the first fitting portion 26A and the second fitting portion 27A are not particularly limited.

[0114] In the first fitting portion 26A and the second fitting portion 27B, the protrusions for increasing rigidity may be located at positions where the welding projections 25A are extended in the axial direction A1, or may be located at positions shifted from the positions.

[0115] (Aspects) The present specification discloses the following aspects.

[0116] A blower (1) according to a first aspect includes a fan case (2), a motor (3), and a centrifugal fan (4). The fan case (2) has a first case (5, 5A) and a second case (6, 6A) that are coupled to each other. The first case (5, 5A) and the second case (6, 6A) form a circulation passage (61) and an exhaust passage (62) that extends in one direction (B1). The motor (3) is housed in the fan case (2) and has a rotating shaft (44) that has an axis (X1) as its center of rotation and extends in an axial direction (A1) along which the axis (X1) extends. The centrifugal fan (4) is housed in the fan case (2). The centrifugal fan (4) is attached to the rotating shaft (44). The first case (5, 5A) and the second case (6, 6A) have a circular passage side wall (11) that forms a circular passage (61) and exhaust passage side walls (12, 12A) that are continuous with the circular passage side wall (11) and form exhaust passages (62, 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D). The circular passage side wall (11) has a first thickness (t1) at at least one location. The exhaust passage side walls (12, 12A) have a second thickness (t2) that is thicker than the first thickness (t1) at at least one location.

[0117] According to this aspect, the exhaust passage side wall (12) has a portion that is thicker than the surrounding passage side wall (11). Therefore, the rigidity of the exhaust passage side wall (12) is increased. Therefore, when a bracket is welded to the exhaust passage side wall (12), the exhaust passage side wall (12) is less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case (2) is suppressed. As a result, high ventilation performance of the blower (1) is maintained. In particular, when the exhaust passage side wall (12) and the surrounding passage side wall (11) have the same thickness, the exhaust passage side wall (12) extends in one direction (B1) and has lower rigidity than the curved surrounding passage side wall (11). Therefore, the above configuration is highly effective.

[0118] In the blower (1) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the thickness of the exhaust passage side wall (12) increases in one direction (B1) from the circular passage (11) toward the exhaust port (64) of the exhaust passage (12).

[0119] According to this embodiment, the thickness of the exhaust passage wall (12) on the exhaust port (64) side, which is the part with the lowest rigidity in the conventional case, can be increased, thereby suppressing deformation of the fan case (2).

[0120] In the blower (1) according to the third aspect, in the second aspect, the exhaust passage side wall (12) has, in a cross section along a plane including a straight line perpendicular to the axis (X1), an inner surface (121) along one direction (B1) and an outer surface (122) that moves away from the inner surface (121) as it extends from the circular passage (11) toward the exhaust port (64).

[0121] According to this aspect, the inner surface (121) of the exhaust passage side wall (12) is aligned along the exhaust direction (B1). Therefore, the ventilation performance is less likely to be reduced. Furthermore, the thickness of the exhaust passage side wall (12) is increased in the outer portion. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust passage (62) can be sufficiently secured.

[0122] In a blower (1) according to a fourth aspect, in any of the first to third aspects, the exhaust passage side wall (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E) has a welding protrusion (25A), a first fitting portion (26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E), and a second fitting portion (27A, 27B, 27C, 27D, 27E). The welding protrusion (25A) is provided on an outer surface (823) of the first case (5A). The first fitting portions (26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E) are provided on the first case (5A) at positions corresponding to the welding protrusion (25A) in the axial direction (A1). The second fitting portions (27A, 27B, 27C, 27D, 27E) are provided in the second case (6A) and fitted to the first fitting portions (26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E) in the axial direction (A1). The first fitting portions (26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E) and the second fitting portions (27A, 27B, 27C, 27D, 27E) extend in one direction (B1) as viewed from the axial direction (A1). The first fitting portions (26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E) and the second fitting portions (27A, 27B, 27B, 27C, 27D, 27E) include convex portions that are convex in a direction intersecting the one direction (B1).

[0123] According to this aspect, the first fitting portions (26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E) and the second fitting portions (27A, 27B, 27C, 27D, 27E) have convex portions at positions axially corresponding to the welding protrusions (25A). This increases the rigidity of the exhaust passage side walls (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E). Therefore, when the bracket (91) is welded to the welding protrusions (25A) of the exhaust passage side walls (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E), the exhaust passage side walls (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E) are less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case (2) is suppressed.

[0124] In a blower (1) according to a fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the first fitting portions (26A, 26B, 26C, 26D) have groove portions (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) recessed in the axial direction (A1). The second fitting portion (27A) has plate portions (40A, 40B, 40C, 40D) that fit into the groove portions (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D). The groove portions (30A, 30B, 30C, 30D) have first groove portions (31A, 31B, 31C, 31D) extending in one direction (B1) and second groove portions (32A, 32B, 32C, 32D) extending from the first groove portions (31A, 31B, 31C, 31D) in a direction intersecting the first groove portions (31A, 31B, 31C, 31D). The plate portions (40A, 40B, 40C, 40D) have first portions (41A, 41B, 41C, 41D) that fit into the first groove portions (31A, 31B, 31C, 31D) and second portions (42A, 42B, 42C, 42D) that fit into the second groove portions (32A, 32B, 32C, 32D). The second groove portions (32A, 32B, 32C, 32D) and the second portions (42A, 42B, 42C, 42D) form a convex portion.

[0125] According to this aspect, the second grooves (32A, 32B, 32C, 32D) and the second portions (42A, 42B, 42C, 42D) form a convex portion. This increases the rigidity of the exhaust passage side walls (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D). Therefore, when the bracket (91) is welded to the welding protrusion (25A) of the exhaust passage side walls (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D), the exhaust passage side walls (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D) are less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case (2) is suppressed.

[0126] In the blower (1) according to the sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the second groove portion (32A, 32B, 32C, 32D) is formed by a portion (33A, 33B, 33C, 33D) of the first fitting portion (26A, 26B, 26C, 26D) that is located on the opposite side of the exhaust passage (62A, 62B, 62C, 62D) and is curved so as to be convex outward and concave inward.

[0127] According to this aspect, the protrusions (33A, 33B, 33C, 33D) are located in the outer regions (35A, 35B, 35C, 35D) outside the exhaust passages (62A, 62B, 62C, 62D). As a result, no structure that disrupts ventilation exists in the inner regions (34A, 34B, 34C, 34D) inside the exhaust passages (62A, 62B, 62C, 62D). Therefore, desired ventilation performance can be obtained.

[0128] In the blower (1) according to the seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, the first fitting portion (26C, 26D) has a portion on the exhaust passage (62C, 62D) side that has a protrusion (36C, 36D) that fits into the second groove portion (32C, 32D). The second portion (42C, 42D) of the plate portion (40C, 40D) has a shape that fits into a space formed by the second groove portion (32C, 32D) and the protrusion (36C, 36D).

[0129] According to this aspect, at a position corresponding to the weld protrusion (25A) in the axial direction (A1), the portion of the first fitting portion (26C, 26D) on the exhaust passage (62C, 62D) side has a protrusion (36C, 36D) that fits into the second groove portion (32C, 32D). This increases the rigidity of the exhaust passage side wall (12C, 12D). Therefore, when the bracket (91) is welded to the weld protrusion (25A) on the exhaust passage side wall (12C, 12D), the exhaust passage side wall (12C, 12D) is less likely to bend or deform. As a result, deformation of the fan case is suppressed.

[0130] A moving body (51) according to an eighth aspect includes the fan (1) according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, an object to be cooled (52), and a moving body main body (55). The object to be cooled (52) is cooled by the fan (1). The moving body main body (55) mounts the fan (1) and the object to be cooled (52).

[0131] According to this embodiment, a moving body (51) that can suppress deformation of the fan case (2) can be obtained.

[0132] According to the present disclosure, a fan and a moving body can be obtained that suppresses deformation of the fan case after the fixing member is fixed. Therefore, the fan and the moving body of the present disclosure are useful for a variety of electrical products and moving bodies.

[0133] 1: Blower 2: Fan case 3: Motor 4: Centrifugal fan 5, 5A: First case 6, 6A: Second case 11: Circulation passage side wall 12, 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E: Exhaust passage side wall 21, 21A, 36C, 36D: Protrusions 25A, 25B: Welded protrusions 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, 26E: First fitting portions 27A, 27B, 27C, 27D, 27E: Second fitting portions 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E: Grooves 31A, 31B, 31C, 31D, 31E: First groove portions 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D, 32E: Second groove portions 33A, 33B, 33C, 33D: protrusions 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, 40E: plate portions 41A, 41B, 41C, 41D, 71A, 121A: first portion 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D, 72A, 122A: second portion 44: rotating shaft 51: vehicle 52: battery 55: vehicle body 61: circulation passage 62, 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 62E: exhaust passage 63, 63A: intake port 64, 64A: exhaust port 91, 92: bracket (fixing member) 121: inner surface 122: outer surface A1: axial direction B1: exhaust direction X1: axis center

Claims

1. A blower comprising: a fan case having a first case and a second case joined to each other, the first case and the second case forming a circulating passage and an exhaust passage extending in one direction; a motor housed within the fan case and having a rotating shaft which rotates around an axis and extends in an axial direction along which the axis extends; and a centrifugal fan housed within the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft, wherein the first case and the second case have: a circulating passage sidewall which constitutes the circulating passage; and an exhaust passage sidewall which is continuous with the circulating passage sidewall and constitutes the exhaust passage, the circulating passage sidewall having a first thickness at at least one location, and the exhaust passage sidewall having a second thickness which is thicker than the first thickness at at least one location.

2. The blower according to claim 1, wherein a thickness of said exhaust passage side wall increases in said one direction from said circulation passage toward an exhaust port of said exhaust passage.

3. A blower as described in claim 2, wherein the exhaust passage side wall, in a cross section along a plane including a straight line perpendicular to the axis, has an inner surface along the one direction, and an outer surface which moves away from the inner surface as it extends from the circular passage towards the exhaust port.

4. A blower as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the exhaust passage side wall has a welding protrusion provided on an outer surface of the first case, a first fitting portion provided on the first case at a position corresponding to the welding protrusion in the axial direction, and a second fitting portion provided on the second case and fitted with the first fitting portion in the axial direction, the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion extending in the one direction when viewed from the axial direction, and the first fitting portion and the second fitting portion including a convex portion that is convex in a direction intersecting the one direction.

5. A blower as described in claim 4, wherein the first fitting portion has a groove portion recessed in the axial direction, the second fitting portion has a plate portion that fits into the groove portion, the groove portion has a first groove portion extending in the one direction and a second groove portion extending from the first groove portion in a direction intersecting the first groove portion, the plate portion has a first portion that fits into the first groove portion and a second portion that fits into the second groove portion, and the second groove portion and the second portion form the convex portion.

6. A blower as claimed in claim 5, wherein said second groove portion is constituted by a portion of said first fitting portion which is positioned on the opposite side of said exhaust passage and which is curved so as to be convex outward and concave inward.

7. A blower as described in claim 6, wherein the portion of the first fitting portion located on the exhaust passage side has a protrusion that fits into the second groove portion, and the second portion of the plate portion has a shape that fits into the space formed by the second groove portion and the protrusion.

8. A moving body comprising: a blower according to claim 1 or 2; an object to be cooled by the blower; and a moving body on which the blower and the object to be cooled are mounted.

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