Humidifier with sterilizing function

Abstract

Provided, according to one aspect of the present invention, is a humidifier comprising: a main body; a water tank that provides an accommodating space; an atomizing module that includes an atomizing unit; a heater that is installed inside the main body and is positioned between the main body and the water tank; and a processor that controls the heater to heat the water tank, wherein the processor heats the heater to a first temperature while the atomizing unit operates, or heats the heater to a second temperature higher than the first temperature so as to heat or maintain the temperature of water inside the water tank within a predetermined temperature range.

Description

Humidifier with sterilizing function

[0001] The present invention relates to a humidifier having a sterilizing function.

[0002] Humidifiers come in various types, including heated humidifiers, ultrasonic humidifiers, and combination humidifiers, depending on their humidification principles. Among these, combination humidifiers utilize a heating plate (or heater) to heat water and an ultrasonic vibrator to atomize the heated water, forming a mist.

[0003] Typically, these composite humidifiers have a water storage compartment formed separately from the main body, and a heating plate formed at the bottom of the compartment where it touches the main body to heat the water stored in the compartment.

[0004] For a composite humidifier with the above structure, hygiene management is crucial. However, conventional humidifiers have been difficult to clean and sterilize. Many internal components of the humidifier cannot be separated sufficiently, and even if they can be separated, a separate sterilization process is required, which is cumbersome.

[0005] The present invention aims to solve the above-described problems.

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a humidifier capable of simultaneously sterilizing internal components of the humidifier, such as an atomizing module, a water tank, and a cover.

[0007] In addition, another object of the present invention is to provide a humidifier capable of sterilizing the inside of the humidifier.

[0008] In addition, another object of the present invention is to provide a humidifier that automatically performs sterilization when atomization is terminated during humidifier operation.

[0009] A representative configuration of the present invention to achieve the above purpose is as follows.

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a humidifier is provided, comprising: a main body; a tank providing a receiving space; an atomizing module including an atomizing unit; a heater installed inside the main body and positioned between the main body and the tank; and a processor controlling the heater to heat the tank, wherein the processor heats the heater to a first temperature while the atomizing unit is operating, or heats the heater to a second temperature higher than the first temperature so as to heat or maintain the temperature of water inside the tank within a predetermined temperature range.

[0011] According to the present invention, the humidifier internal components, such as the atomizing module, the water tank, and the cover, can be sterilized simultaneously.

[0012] Additionally, according to the present invention, the inside of a humidifier can be sterilized.

[0013] In addition, according to the present invention, sterilization can be performed automatically when atomization is terminated during humidifier operation.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Fig. 2 is a drawing showing a part of the humidifier of Fig. 1 in isolation.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the atomization module, hinge assembly, and sensor of the humidifier of FIG. 1 in isolation.

[0017] Figure 4 is a drawing showing the assembled state of the atomizing module, hinge assembly, and sensor of the humidifier of Figure 1.

[0018] Fig. 5 is a drawing showing the pivot of the atomizing module of the humidifier of Fig. 1.

[0019] Fig. 6 is a drawing schematically showing a cross-sectional configuration along the cutting line A-A' of Fig. 1.

[0020] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the operation process of the humidifier of Figure 1.

[0021] Figure 8 is an image showing a sterilization test of the humidifier of Figure 1.

[0022] Figure 9 is an image showing the medium before and after the sterilization test of the test bacteria inoculated into the water inside the tank according to the sterilization test of Figure 8.

[0023] Figure 10 is an image showing the medium before and after the sterilization test of the test bacteria inoculated on the inner surface and cover of the tank according to the sterilization test of Figure 8.

[0024] Figure 11 is an image showing the results of the sterilization test of Figures 9 and 10 in a table.

[0025] <Explanation of symbols>

[0026] 100: Body

[0027] 110: Heater

[0028] 120: Heating plate

[0029] 200: Upper body

[0030] 210: Hinge assembly

[0031] 211: Identifier

[0032] 220: Sensor

[0033] 310: Tank

[0034] 320: Cover

[0035] 400: No-Flow Module

[0036] 410: The Muhwa Department

[0037] 411: Vibrator

[0038] 420: Cancer

[0039] The following detailed description of the present invention refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the present invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present invention. It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present invention, while different from each other, are not necessarily mutually exclusive. For example, specific shapes, structures, and characteristics described herein may be modified and implemented from one embodiment to another without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that the positions or arrangements of individual components within each embodiment may also be modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is to be construed to encompass the scope of the claims and all equivalents thereof. Like reference numerals in the drawings represent the same or similar elements throughout the several aspects.

[0040] Hereinafter, various preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can easily practice the present invention.

[0041] Humidifier composition

[0042] Fig. 1 is a drawing showing a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a drawing showing a partial configuration of the humidifier of Fig. 1 in isolation.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a humidifier (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a main body (100) and an upper body (200).

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the main body (100) may form the exterior of the humidifier. The main body (100) may have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The main body (100) may provide a space within it. The main body (100) may have an open top.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 1, the upper body (200) can form the exterior of the humidifier. The upper body (200) can be openably and closably coupled to the main body (100). For example, the upper body (200) can be pivotally coupled or connected to the main body (100). The upper body (200) can open and close the internal space of the main body (100). In addition, the upper body (200) can be provided with a plurality of buttons (physical buttons or touch buttons) for operating the humidifier.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2, the tank (310) can be detachably accommodated, coupled, or mounted in the internal space of the main body (100). The tank (310) may have a cylindrical shape. The tank (310) may provide a space inside. The tank (310) may have an open top. The tank (310) may be formed of a material with high thermal conductivity. The tank (310) may be formed of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a metal, alloy, graphite, or silicon carbide. For example, the tank (310) may be formed of stainless steel.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 2, the heater (110) may be installed on the inner surface of the main body (100). The heater (110) may be located on the lower surface of the inner surface of the main body (100). The heater (110) may be located between the water tank (310) and the main body (100). For example, the heater (110) may be a PTC heater (110).

[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, a heating plate (120) may be installed on the inner surface of the main body (100). The heating plate (120) may be located on the lower surface of the inner surface of the main body (100). The heating plate (120) may cover the upper surface of the heater (110). The heating plate (120) may be located between the water tank (310) and the main body (100). The heating plate (120) may be in contact with at least one of the heater (110) and the water tank (310). The heating plate (120) may be formed of a material having high thermal conductivity. The heating plate (120) may be formed of the same material as the water tank (310). For example, the heating plate (120) may be formed of stainless steel. The heating plate (120) may quickly spread and transfer the heat of the heater (110) to the water tank (310).

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2, the cover (320) can be detachably received, coupled, or mounted on the inner surface of the upper body (200). The cover (320) may have a circular plate shape. The cover (320) may cover the upper surface of the tank (310). The cover (320) may be formed of a material with high thermal conductivity. In addition, the cover (320) may be formed of the same material as the tank (310). For example, the cover (320) may be formed of stainless steel.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 2, the atomization module (400) may have an elongated shape. At least a portion of the atomization module (400) may be accommodated in the tank (310). The upper portion of the atomization module (400) may be pivotally connected, coupled, or mounted to the inner surface of the upper body (200).

[0051] The humidifier may include a processor (not shown). The processor may be electrically connected to the electronic components of the humidifier to control the operation of the humidifier.

[0052] Fig. 3 is a drawing showing the atomizing module (400), hinge assembly (210), and sensor (220) of the humidifier of Fig. 1 in a separated state. Fig. 4 is a drawing showing the atomizing module (400), hinge assembly (210), and sensor (220) of the humidifier of Fig. 1 in an assembled state.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the atomization module (400) may include an atomizing unit (410) and an arm (420). The arm (420) may have an elongated shape. The atomizing unit (410) may be provided at the lower end of the arm (420). The upper end of the arm (420) may be detachably connected, coupled, or mounted to the hinge assembly (210). The atomizing unit (410) may include a vibrator (411). The vibrator (411) may be exposed to the outside. For example, the vibrator (411) may be an ultrasonic vibrator (411). The vibrator (411) may generate mist by atomization.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a hinge assembly (210) may be provided on the upper body (200). The hinge assembly (210) may be installed to be rotatable about a rotation axis r. In addition, the hinge assembly (210) may further include an identifier (211). The identifier (211) may be formed integrally with the hinge assembly (210). The identifier (211) may rotate together with the hinge assembly (210).

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a sensor (220) may be provided on the upper body (200). The sensor (220) may detect rotation of the hinge assembly (210) or the identifier (211). The sensor (220) may detect at least one of the rotation amount, phase, rotation direction, and position of the identifier (211). For example, the sensor (220) may be a photo sensor (220). When the atomization module (400) is coupled with the hinge assembly (210), the sensor (220) may detect at least one of the pivot amount, pivot angle, pivot direction, and position of the atomization module (400).

[0056] Fig. 5 is a drawing showing the pivot of the atomizing module (400) of the humidifier of Fig. 1. Referring to Fig. 5, the atomizing module (400) is connected to the upper body (200) and can pivot and move inside the water tank (310).

[0057] Referring to FIG. 5, when water (W) is contained in the tank (310), the atomization module (400) can pivot according to the water level. The atomization unit (410) may be formed of a structure (e.g., a hollow structure) or material (e.g., a material having a lower specific gravity than water) that can have a predetermined buoyancy in water. The atomization module (400) can float to the extent that only the atomization unit (410) or the vibrator (411) is submerged in water due to the buoyancy that the atomization unit (410) receives from the water. In addition, the atomization module (400) can pivot by floating to the extent that only the atomization unit (410) or the vibrator (411) is submerged in water by the hinge assembly (210) even if the water level changes.

[0058] For example, when the water level is the first height (h2), the angle formed by the upper body (200) and the atomizing module (400) may be B. At this time, the atomizing unit (410) or the vibrator (411) may be located below the water surface. In addition, the processor may detect the angle formed by the upper body (200) and the atomizing module (400) or the water level through the sensor (220).

[0059] In addition, when the water level is reduced to the second height (h1) due to the operation of the humidifier, the atomizing module (400) can pivot about the hinge assembly (210), and the angle formed between the upper body (200) and the atomizing module (400) can be C. The angle C can be greater than the angle B. At this time, the atomizing unit (410) or the vibrator (411) can be located below the water surface. In addition, the processor can detect the angle or water level formed between the upper body (200) and the atomizing module (400) through the sensor (220).

[0060] Sterilization function

[0061] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' of FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 6, the processor may heat the heater (110) to a first temperature while the atomization module (400) performs atomization. At this time, the first temperature may be a temperature capable of heating or maintaining the water temperature at about 30 to 50°C. And, the first temperature may be a temperature higher than the water temperature. For example, when the heater (110) is heated to the first temperature, the water temperature may be about 40°C. The processor may control the heater (110) so that the water temperature is maintained constant while the atomization module (400) performs atomization.

[0062] In addition, the processor can heat the heater (110) to a second temperature higher than the first temperature when the atomization module (400) stops performing atomization. At this time, the second temperature may be a temperature that can heat or maintain the water temperature at about 60 to 100°C. And the second temperature may be a temperature higher than the water temperature. For example, when the heater (110) is heated to the second temperature, the water temperature may be about 70°C. In addition, the processor can stop the operation of the heater (110) when the water temperature reaches a specific temperature. At this time, the specific temperature may be 60 to 80°C. In addition, the processor can lower the water temperature by operating a fan (not shown) provided inside the main body (100) to cool the water tank (310), and can stop the fan when the water temperature drops to about 30 to 50°C.

[0063] In addition, the processor can sterilize at least one of the water tank (310), the water inside the water tank (W), the atomization module (400), and the cover (320) through the aforementioned heater control method. Specifically, the processor can control the heater (110) to heat the water tank (310), and the heat of the heated water tank is transferred to the water inside the water tank, thereby increasing the temperature of the water inside the water tank. At this time, the heat of the water inside the water tank is transferred to the atomization unit (410) or the vibrator (411) among the atomization modules (400) immersed in water, thereby sterilizing the atomization unit (410) or the vibrator (411). In addition, since the water tank (310) may be made of a material with high thermal conductivity, all parts of the water tank (310) are heated, thereby causing a sterilization effect on all surfaces of the water tank (310). In addition, heat generated inside the tank (310) (the inner surface of the tank (310) or the water inside the tank) is transferred to the arm (420) and the cover (320), so that a sterilizing effect occurs in the arm (420) and the cover (320). As a result, the humidifier can be hygienically managed even if the user does not disassemble and clean the internal components of the humidifier.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 6, the processor can control the heater (110) based on the pivot of the atomization module (400). The processor can sterilize at least one of the water tank (310), the water inside the water tank (W), the atomization module (400), and the cover (320) by controlling the heater (110) based on the pivot of the atomization module (400).

[0065] For example, the processor can detect the rotation of the identifier (211) or the pivot of the atomization module (400) through the sensor (220). The processor can obtain the water level by detecting the amount of rotation or position of the identifier (211) through the sensor (220). Alternatively, the processor can obtain the water level by detecting the amount of pivot or position of the atomization module (400) through the sensor (220). Alternatively, the processor can obtain the water level by detecting the angle formed by the upper body (200) and the atomization module (400) through the sensor (220). In addition, the processor can stop the operation of the vibrator (411) and allow sterilization to proceed when the water level is sufficiently low.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 6, the processor can control the heater (110) based on the angle formed by the upper body (200) and the atomizing module (400). For example, the processor can detect the angle formed by the upper body (200) and the atomizing module (400) through the sensor (220) and obtain the water level based on the angle.

[0067] And, when the angle formed by the upper body (200) and the atomization module (400) becomes greater than or equal to the first value, the processor determines that the water level has sufficiently lowered, and stops the operation of the vibrator (411) to allow sterilization to proceed. For example, the first value may mean the angle formed by the upper body (200) and the atomization module (400) when the water level from the bottom of the water tank (310) is about 40 mm to 60 mm. And, when the angle formed by the upper body (200) and the atomization module (400) becomes greater than or equal to the first value, the atomization unit (410) or the vibrator (411) may be submerged in water.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 6, the processor can heat the heater (110) to a first temperature when the angle formed by the atomization module (400) and the upper body (200) is less than a first value. At this time, the first temperature may be a temperature capable of heating or maintaining the water temperature at about 30 to 50°C. In addition, the first temperature may be a temperature higher than the water temperature.

[0069] Additionally, the processor can heat the heater (110) to a second temperature higher than the first temperature when the angle formed by the atomization module (400) and the upper body (200) is greater than or equal to the first value. At this time, the second temperature may be a temperature capable of heating or maintaining the water temperature at about 60 to 100°C. And the second temperature may be a temperature higher than the water temperature.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation process of the humidifier of FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 7, the processor can determine whether the atomization mode is turned on (S710). If the atomization mode is turned on, the processor can operate the vibrator (411) (S710). The vibrator (411) can generate mist through atomization. In addition, the processor can determine whether the sterilization reservation mode is turned on (S720). The sterilization reservation mode may mean generating mist through atomization while the water temperature is maintained at about 30 to 50°C. If the sterilization reservation mode is turned on, the processor can heat the heater (110) to a first temperature (S730). At this time, the first temperature may mean a temperature capable of heating or maintaining the water temperature at about 30 to 50°C. In addition, the first temperature may be a temperature higher than the water temperature.

[0071] The processor can determine whether the angle formed by the atomizing module (400) and the upper body (200) is greater than or equal to a first value (S740). At this time, the first value may refer to the angle formed by the atomizing module (400) and the upper body (200) when the water level from the bottom of the water tank (310) is approximately 40 mm to 60 mm. In addition, when the angle between the upper body (200) and the atomizing module (400) is greater than or equal to the first value, the atomizing unit (410) or the vibrator (411) may be submerged in water.

[0072] The processor can turn off the atomization mode and turn off the sterilization reservation mode when the angle formed by the atomization module (400) and the upper body (200) is greater than or equal to the first value. In addition, the processor can heat the heater (110) to a second temperature (S750). The heating of the heater (110) to the second temperature can be referred to as a sterilization mode. At this time, the second temperature can mean a temperature that can heat or maintain the water temperature at about 60 to 100°C. And the second temperature can be a temperature higher than the water temperature. When the water temperature reaches a specific temperature, the processor can stop heating the heater (110) and operate a fan provided inside the main body (100) to lower the water temperature. At this time, the specific temperature can be 60 to 80°C. And when the water temperature drops to about 30 to 50°C, the processor can stop the fan and end the sterilization mode. For example, the processor may output a notification to terminate the sterilization mode when the water temperature reaches 40°C.

[0073] Meanwhile, the processor can perform sterilization regardless of the atomization mode. The processor can terminate the operation of the humidifier after performing the sterilization mode. For example, after the sterilization mode is completed, the processor can terminate the operation of the heater (110) and not operate the atomization unit (410). At this time, the processor can turn on the sterilization mode regardless of the water level of the water tank (310). Alternatively, the processor can turn on the sterilization mode without detecting the angle formed by the atomization module (400) and the upper body (200).

[0074] In addition, the processor can turn on the atomization mode after performing the sterilization mode. At this time, the processor can maintain a standby state until the water temperature inside the water tank (310) reaches an appropriate temperature for the atomization mode, or can operate a fan installed inside the main body (100) to lower the water temperature. In addition, the processor can operate the vibrator (411) when the water temperature inside the water tank (310) falls to an appropriate level.

[0075] Humidifier sterilization test

[0076] In order to confirm the sterilizing performance of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present invention, a sterilizing test was performed, and the test conditions were as follows.

[0077] - Test strains: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Listeria monocytogenes

[0078] - Test bacteria inoculation locations: Humidifier cover, inner surface of tank, and water inside tank

[0079] - Surface test bacteria inoculation amount: 10μl

[0080] - Humidifier sterilization cycle operation time: 2 hours

[0081] The sterilization test procedure is as follows:

[0082] Fill the humidifier tank with water to a depth of 50 to 75 mm and turn on the humidifier. Simultaneously, press the sterilization reservation button to activate the sterilization function (when the humidifier is turned on, atomization begins, and the sterilization function automatically begins when the water level inside the tank reaches approximately 50 mm).

[0083] Before starting sterilization, open the upper part of the humidifier and inoculate the pre-cultured test bacteria into the locations to be sterilized (humidifier cover, inner surface of the water tank, and water inside the water tank) (see Fig. 8).

[0084] Close the humidifier top and wait until the sterilization cycle (approximately 2 hours) is complete.

[0085] When the sterilization course is completed, the test bacteria are collected again from the location where they were inoculated, and the colony-forming unit (CFU) is compared with the medium on which the test bacteria were previously cultured to measure the bacterial reduction rate.

[0086] Figures 9 and 10 are images showing the medium before and after the sterilization test of the test bacteria inoculated on the water inside the tank, the inner surface of the tank, and the cover according to the sterilization test of Figure 8. Referring to Figures 9 and 10, it can be visually confirmed that most of the test bacteria collected after the sterilization test were sterilized and disappeared from all test locations.

[0087] Figure 11 is an image showing the results of the sterilization tests of Figures 9 and 10 in a table. Referring to Figure 11, it can be seen that the reduction rate of all test bacteria used in the test was measured to be 99.9% or higher.

[0088] As can be seen from the sterilization test results, the humidifier according to one embodiment of the present invention can perform sterilization using a heater for heat retention and humidification, allowing for a simple yet hygienic design. Furthermore, the humidifier according to one embodiment of the present invention exhibits excellent sterilization efficacy, as it can reduce most bacteria throughout the entire internal components (cover, tank, and atomization module) through sterilization.

[0089] Although the present invention has been described above with specific details such as specific components and limited examples and drawings, these are provided only to help a more general understanding of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the above examples, and those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can make various modifications and changes based on this description.

[0090] Therefore, the idea of ​​the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments described above, and not only the scope of the patent claims described below but also all scopes equivalent to or equivalently modified from the scope of the patent claims are considered to fall within the scope of the idea of ​​the present invention.

Claims

1. Main body; A tank that provides a holding space; A fire module including a fire part; A heater installed inside the main body and positioned between the main body and the water tank; and A processor is included that controls the heater to heat the tank, A humidifier in which the processor heats the heater to a first temperature while the atomizer is operating, or heats the heater to a second temperature higher than the first temperature so as to heat or maintain the temperature of water inside the tank within a predetermined temperature range.

2. In paragraph 1, A humidifier having a temperature range of 60 to 100°C.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above tank is a humidifier that is detachably mounted inside the main body.

4. In paragraph 1 or 2, A humidifier in which, when a liquid is contained inside the tank, the atomizing module is configured to float on the liquid while being at least partially submerged in the liquid.

5. In paragraph 4, The upper surface of the above body and the above tank is open, The above humidifier further includes an upper body covering the upper surface of the main body and the water tank.

6. In paragraph 5, The upper body further includes a hinge assembly provided on the inner surface, A humidifier wherein the above-mentioned vaporization module is detachably mounted to the hinge assembly via an arm.

7. In paragraph 1, A humidifier wherein the above tank is formed of a material having high thermal conductivity.

8. In paragraph 1, The above tank is a humidifier formed of stainless steel.

9. In paragraph 6, The above-mentioned atomization module is pivotally mounted on the hinge assembly within the upper body, A humidifier, wherein the upper body includes a sensor that detects the pivot of the atomizing module.

10. In paragraph 9, The above sensor detects the rotation of the hinge assembly, the humidifier.

11. In paragraph 9, A humidifier in which the processor controls the atomizer and the heater based on the pivot of the atomizer module.

12. In paragraph 11, A humidifier in which the processor controls the atomizer to operate when the angle formed by the atomizing module and the upper body is less than a first value, and to stop the operation of the atomizing unit when the angle is greater than or equal to the first value.

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