Dehumidifier

Abstract

A dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a main body comprising a suction part through which air for dehumidification is sucked in and a discharge part through which dehumidified air is discharged; a dehumidification module disposed inside the main body; a fan assembly which is disposed inside the main body and which sucks in the air for dehumidification and discharges the dehumidified air to the discharge part; and a vane assembly rotatably provided on the inner side of the discharge part to adjust a discharge direction of air being discharged to the discharge part, wherein the vane assembly opens or closes the discharge part while rotating on the inner side of the discharge part.

Description

dehumidifier

[0001] The present invention relates to a dehumidifier.

[0002] A dehumidifier is a type of home appliance that lowers the humidity in a desired space by sucking in air, removing moisture contained in the air through heat exchange, and discharging the dehumidified air into the desired space.

[0003] The above dehumidifier removes moisture by sucking in air and passing it through a heat exchanger consisting of a condenser and an evaporator, thereby exchanging heat between the refrigerant flowing through the condenser and the evaporator and the air passing through it.

[0004] The evaporator absorbs heat from the surrounding air by evaporating the liquid refrigerant, and the condenser releases heat by condensing the gaseous refrigerant, thereby transferring heat to the surrounding air.

[0005] That is, the air passing through the heat exchanger exchanges heat with the refrigerant as it passes through the evaporator, thereby lowering its humidity, and the air with reduced humidity exchanges heat with the refrigerant as it passes through the condenser, thereby undergoing a drying process.

[0006] The dried air passing through the above heat exchanger is discharged to the desired space, thereby lowering the humidity in the air of the desired space.

[0007] However, conventional dehumidifiers can only discharge dehumidified air in a limited direction through the louvers of the discharge unit, and have a problem in that it is difficult to discharge dehumidified air in various directions.

[0008] In addition, when designing the discharge portion and louvers so that air is discharged in various directions, there is a problem in that discharge performance is reduced and noise is generated significantly due to air flow resistance during the process of discharging dehumidified air.

[0009] The present invention is proposed to improve the above problems.

[0010] A dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a main body including an intake part through which air for dehumidification is sucked in and an exhaust part through which dehumidified air is exhausted.

[0011] The above dehumidifier may further include a dehumidification module disposed inside the main body.

[0012] The above dehumidifier may further include a fan assembly disposed inside the main body, which sucks in air for dehumidification and discharges the dehumidified air to the discharge unit.

[0013] The above dehumidifier may further include a vane assembly that is rotatably provided on the inside of the discharge portion to control the discharge direction of air discharged to the discharge portion.

[0014] The above-mentioned vane assembly can open or close the discharge portion during the process of rotating inside the discharge portion.

[0015] The above-mentioned vein assembly may include a support rim rotatably provided on the inside of the discharge portion.

[0016] The above-described vane assembly may further include a discharge vane movably provided on the inner side of the support rim.

[0017] The above vane assembly may further include a vane link coupled to the discharge vane to guide movement of the discharge vane.

[0018] The above-described vane assembly may further include a driving gear coupled to the outer side of the support rim.

[0019] The above-mentioned vane assembly may further include a drive motor that rotates the drive gear.

[0020] The above support rim may include a rim body formed in a ring shape.

[0021] The above support rim may further include a gear portion formed on the outer surface of the rim body and coupled with the driving gear.

[0022] The above support rim may further include a bearing formed on the outer surface of the rim body to restrict the up-and-down movement of the rim body.

[0023] The above bearing may include an upper bearing arranged on the upper side of the gear portion.

[0024] The above bearing may further include a lower bearing arranged on the lower side of the gear portion.

[0025] The above support rim may further include a coupling protrusion formed on the inner surface of the rim body and coupled with the discharge vane.

[0026] The above discharge vane may include a plurality of vanes spaced apart from each other.

[0027] The above plurality of vanes may include a coupling rib having a coupling groove formed into which the coupling projection is fitted.

[0028] The above-described vane assembly may further include a link guide that selectively contacts a portion of the vane link to guide movement of the vane link.

[0029] The above vein link may include a link body.

[0030] The above-mentioned vein link may further include a link extension extending upward from the link body and connected to the discharge vein.

[0031] The above-mentioned vein link may further include a support shaft extending downward from the link body.

[0032] The above-mentioned vein link may further include a link bearing formed at the lower end of the support shaft and selectively contacting the link guide.

[0033] In the above link extension, a joining hook can be formed.

[0034] The above discharge vane may be formed with a link connection that is connected to the coupling hook and rotates.

[0035] In the above link guide, a guide groove may be formed so that the link bearing moves along the inside of the link guide.

[0036] The above guide groove can be formed by being sunken downward from the upper surface of the link guide.

[0037] As the link bearing moves inward of the guide groove, the discharge vane may begin to close.

[0038] As the link bearing moves outward from the guide groove, the discharge vane may begin to open.

[0039] The above link guide may form a bottom surface of the guide groove and may include a plurality of sections in which the link bearing moves sequentially.

[0040] The above multiple sections may include a first section defined as a section from the entrance of the guide groove to a certain point of the guide groove.

[0041] The above multiple sections may further include a second section defined as a section from the end point of the first section to another point of the guide home.

[0042] The above multiple sections may further include a third section defined as a section from the end point of the second section to the end point of the guide groove.

[0043] When the link bearing is located in the first section, the distance between the link bearing and the center of the support rim can be the greatest.

[0044] When the link bearing is located in the third section, the distance between the link bearing and the center of the support rim can be the closest.

[0045] As the link bearing moves from the first section to the second section, the discharge vane may begin to close.

[0046] During the process in which the link bearing moves from the second section to the third section, the discharge vane can be completely closed.

[0047] During the process in which the above link bearing moves from the third section to the second section, the discharge vane may begin to open.

[0048] According to the dehumidifier according to the embodiment of the present invention having the above configuration, the following effects are achieved.

[0049] First, since the top of the dehumidifier is equipped with a circular discharge port through which dehumidified air is discharged, there is an advantage in that noise generated by flow resistance during the process of discharging dehumidified air is greatly reduced.

[0050] Second, since a vane assembly that controls the direction of discharge of the discharged air is rotatably provided on the inside of the discharge unit, there is an advantage in that the direction of discharge of the discharged air can be implemented in various ways.

[0051] Third, since it is possible to open and close the discharge port and control the airflow in all directions using a single motor, the number of parts is minimized, which simplifies the structure and makes the product compact.

[0052] Fourth, since the heat exchanger is placed adjacent to the fan housing and the discharge portion is placed directly above the fan housing, there is an advantage in that the heat exchange performance and air flow performance of the air are improved.

[0053] Figure 1 is a front perspective view showing a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view showing a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 4 is a top perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 6 is a front perspective view showing a support rim according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 7 is a front perspective view showing a discharge vane according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 8 is a front perspective view showing a vein link according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view showing a link guide according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of Fig. 1.

[0063] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line 10-10 of Figure 1.

[0064] Figures 12 to 15 are plan views of a dehumidifier showing the discharge vane of the vane assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention being opened.

[0065] FIGS. 16 to 19 are plan views of a dehumidifier showing the discharge vane of the vane assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention being closed.

[0066] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of related known structures or functions will be omitted if they are deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0067] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used to describe components of embodiments of the present invention. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms. When it is described that a component is "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but another component may also be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" between each component.

[0068] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view showing a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a dehumidifier (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a slim shape having a relatively thin thickness in the front-back direction.

[0070] The above dehumidifier (10) has a three-dimensional shape and can have a length (L1) in a first direction, a length (L2) in a second direction, and a length (L3) in a third direction. The directions are defined.

[0071] The above first direction is the direction in which the water tank (130), compressor (161), and electric device (170) described later are arranged, and may correspond to the left-right direction (x-axis direction) of the dehumidifier. In addition, the above first direction may be understood as the direction from the first side portion (103) described later toward the second side portion (104).

[0072] The above second direction is the direction in which air passing through the fan (230) described later is discharged through the discharge unit (140), and can correspond to the up-down direction (y-axis direction) of the dehumidifier.

[0073] The third direction above is the direction in which the suction unit (112), heat exchanger (180), and fan (230) described later are arranged, and can correspond to the front-back direction (z-axis direction) of the dehumidifier.

[0074] For example, when defining the length (L1) in the first direction, the length (L2) in the second direction, and the length (L3) in the third direction of the dehumidifier (10), the length (L2) in the second direction may be greater than the length (L1) in the first direction, and the length (L1) in the first direction may be greater than the length (L3) in the third direction.

[0075] The above dehumidifier (10) may include a main body (100) that forms an exterior and accommodates a number of components for discharging dehumidified air. The main body (100) may include a first case (110) and a second case (120).

[0076] The outer surface of the main body (100) can be defined by the first and second cases (110, 120). In detail, the main body (100) can include a front portion (101), a rear portion (102), a first side portion (103), a second side portion (104), an upper portion (105), and a lower portion (106).

[0077] The first case (110) is placed on the upper side of the second case (120), and the first and second cases (110, 120) can be coupled to each other. A fastening mechanism (115) can be provided on the coupling surfaces of the first and second cases (110, 120). For example, the fastening mechanism (115) can include a bracket and a fastening member.

[0078] A fan assembly (200) for generating airflow and a heat exchanger (180) for exchanging air heat can be placed inside the first case (110).

[0079] A compressor (161), a water tank (130), and an electric device (170) can be placed inside the second case (120).

[0080] The first and second cases (110, 120) are configured such that the left and right ends extend in a rounded manner with a predetermined curvature, and can improve the aesthetic appeal in terms of design by forming a smooth surface. That is, the first side portion (103) and the second side portion (104) can include smoothly rounded surfaces.

[0081] The curvature of the portion forming the upper surface (105) of the first side portion (103) can be formed to correspond to the curvature of the discharge portion (140) described later.

[0082] The dehumidifier (10) may include a water tank (130) for storing condensed water in the air. The water tank (130) may be detachably provided at the lower portion of the dehumidifier (10). For example, the water tank (130) may be detachably provided at the second case (120).

[0083] The water tank (130) can be separated laterally from the dehumidifier (10). Since the water tank (130) is located at the bottom of the dehumidifier, the weight stability of the dehumidifier is improved, and the risk of water stored in the dehumidifier flowing into internal components of the dehumidifier is reduced.

[0084] When the dehumidifier is in operation, external air is sucked into the rear portion (102) of the dehumidifier (10) and can be discharged through the upper portion (105). The rear portion (102) may be provided with a suction portion (112) for sucking air, and the upper portion (105) may be provided with a discharge portion (140).

[0085] The above suction portion (112) is formed on the rear surface (102) of the first case (110), and the discharge portion (140) may be formed by opening a portion of the upper surface (105) of the first case (110).

[0086] The above discharge portion (140) can guide air passing through the fan (230) to be discharged upward from the dehumidifier. The above discharge portion (140) can be configured to have a width substantially the same as the maximum width of the discharge side flow path of the fan (230).

[0087] For example, the discharge portion (140) may include a circular discharge portion having the width as a diameter.

[0088] The side edge of the upper surface (105) includes a rounded curved portion, and a portion of the outer surface of the circular discharge portion can form a curvature corresponding to the side edge of the upper surface (105).

[0089] The center of curvature of a portion of the outer surface of the above-mentioned circular discharge portion may be formed to be identical to the center of curvature of the side edge of the above-mentioned upper surface portion (105). According to this configuration, a portion of the outer surface of the above-mentioned circular discharge portion may extend parallel to the side edge of the above-mentioned upper surface portion (105).

[0090] The above discharge portion (140) may be formed at a position eccentric to one side with respect to the left-right center of the upper surface portion (105). For example, the above discharge portion (140) may be formed at a position closer to the first side portion (103) among the first and second side portions (103, 104).

[0091] The discharge unit (140) may be provided with a vane assembly (300) that controls the direction of the discharged airflow. The vane assembly (300) may selectively open and close the discharge unit (140). The vane assembly (300) may be provided to be movable or rotatable.

[0092] The above vane assembly (300) may be provided rotatably inside the discharge portion (140). The vane assembly (300) may open or close the discharge portion (140) while rotating inside the discharge portion (140). The vane assembly (300) may be operated automatically or manually.

[0093] Inside the above main body (100), a fluid part in which parts for generating airflow and exchanging heat are arranged and a driving part in which main driving parts and processing parts necessary for the operation of the dehumidifier are arranged can be arranged.

[0094] The above fluid part and driving part can be defined as a “dehumidification module” as a module for dehumidification.

[0095] The above-mentioned fluid part and driving part can be arranged vertically. For example, the fluid part can be arranged above the driving part, and an internal frame (150) can be arranged between the fluid part and the driving part to partition them.

[0096] The above-mentioned fluid part may include a heat exchanger (180) arranged inside the suction part (112) and a fan assembly (200) arranged in front of the heat exchanger (180) and into which air passing through the heat exchanger (180) is sucked.

[0097] The above heat exchanger (180) may include an evaporator (181) and a condenser (183). The evaporator (181) and the condenser (183) may be arranged in parallel in the direction in which air flows, i.e., in the front-back direction.

[0098] The above heat exchanger (180) is placed on the side of the evaporator (181) and the condenser (183) and may further include a piping section (185) that guides the flow of refrigerant entering and exiting the evaporator (181) and the condenser (183).

[0099] The above evaporator (181) is placed between the suction part (112) and the condenser (183), so that air sucked through the suction part (112) can be cooled by first passing through the evaporator (181) and then heated by passing through the condenser (183).

[0100] As the air passes through the evaporator (181) and is cooled, the moisture contained in the air condenses to form condensate, and the air can be dehumidified. The condensate can be stored in a water tank (130).

[0101] The dehumidified air is heated as it passes through the condenser (183) and can be sucked into the fan assembly (200). The air that passes through the fan assembly (200) can be discharged through the discharge portion (140) provided at the upper end of the fan assembly (200).

[0102] The above driving part may include a water tank (130) that stores condensate generated in the evaporator (181). For example, the water tank (130) may be positioned so as to be exposed to the second side portion (104) of the main body (100). A user may withdraw the water tank (130) to the side of the second side portion (104).

[0103] The above driving part may further include a compressor (161) that compresses refrigerant to drive a refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant compressed in the compressor (161) may be introduced into the condenser (183) through the pipe (185).

[0104] The above pipe section (185) is connected to the outlet port of the compressor (161) and can be connected to the condenser (183) by passing through or bypassing the inner frame (150).

[0105] The above driving part may further include an electric device (170) in which electric components of the dehumidifier are provided.

[0106] The water tank (130), the compressor (161), and the electric device (170) may be arranged in the left-right direction, for example, in the direction from the second side portion (104) toward the first side portion (103).

[0107] The above inner frame (150) may include a partition plate (151) that divides the inner space of the main body (100) into upper and lower parts to separate the fluid part and the driving part.

[0108] The inner frame (150) may further include a plurality of partition walls (153, 155) extending from the partition plate (151) toward the driving part and separating the accommodation space of the components of the driving part.

[0109] The above-described plurality of partition walls (153, 155) may include a first partition wall (153) for defining a receiving space of the water tank (130). The first partition wall (153) may extend downward from the partition plate (151) and be supported on the bottom surface (106). The main body (100), the first partition wall (153), and the partition plate (151) may define a receiving space of the water tank (130).

[0110] The above multiple bulkheads (153, 155) may further include a second bulkhead (155) for defining a receiving space for the compressor (161) and the electrical device (170). The second bulkhead (155) may extend downward from the partition plate (151) and be supported on the bottom surface (106). The second bulkhead (155) may be arranged to be spaced laterally from the first bulkhead (153).

[0111] The first bulkhead (153), the second bulkhead (155), and the partition plate (151) can define a space for accommodating the compressor (161). In addition, the main body (100), the second bulkhead (155), and the partition plate (151) can define a space for accommodating the electric device (170).

[0112] Referring to Fig. 4, when looking down at the dehumidifier (10) from above, the discharge portion (140) may be eccentric to one side from the left-right center (C1) of the upper surface (105).

[0113] In detail, when defining an extension line (ℓc) extending from the left-right center (C1) in the front-back direction, the extension line (ℓc) can divide the upper surface (105) into a first region where the discharge portion (140) is located and a second region on the opposite side.

[0114] That is, the discharge portion (140) may be formed in the first region among the first and second regions defined on both sides with respect to the center of the upper surface portion (105). The discharge portion (140) may be positioned adjacent to the lateral edges of the upper surface portion (105), and both ends of the discharge portion (140) may be positioned in the first region.

[0115] The vertical extension line passing through the center of the above fan (230) can pass through the second area.

[0116] The center of the above discharge portion (140) may be eccentric with respect to the center of the fan (230).

[0117] The vertical extension line passing through the center of the heat exchanger (180) or the center of the dehumidifier may be located between the vertical extension line passing through the center of the discharge unit (140) and the vertical extension line passing through the center of the fan (230).

[0118] The entire area of ​​the above discharge portion (140) can be formed closer to the first side portion (103) than to the second side portion (104).

[0119] The above discharge portion (140) may have a circular shape. When defining a left-right center line (ℓo) that passes through the center of the discharge portion (140) and divides the discharge portion (140) into two halves in the front-back direction, the left-right center line (ℓo) may divide the upper surface (105) into two halves in the front-back direction.

[0120] That is, the left-right center line (ℓo) can divide the discharge portion (140) into two equal parts in the front-back direction, and divide the upper surface portion (105) into two equal parts in the front-back direction.

[0121] A fan housing (201) forming an air flow path of a fan (230) may be arranged inside the main body (100). The fan housing (201) may be understood as a “scroll housing” that expands the air flow path in the rotational direction of the fan (230).

[0122] The above fan housing (201) may include a housing body (210) that accommodates a fan (230) and an orifice (220) that is coupled to the housing body (210) and sucks in air that has passed through a heat exchanger (180).

[0123] The above orifice (220) may include a support plate (228) located at the top of the heat exchanger (180).

[0124] The fan housing (201) includes a connecting portion (202) defining a boundary surface between the housing body (210) and the orifice (220), and the housing body (210) and the orifice (220) can be in surface contact through the connecting portion (202).

[0125] The contact surface of the housing body (210) and the orifice (220) may be located on the left-right center line (ℓo).

[0126] According to this configuration, the heat exchanger (180) and the fan (230) form a stable center of gravity at approximately symmetrical positions in the front-rear direction of the dehumidifier, and the air passing through the fan (230) can be evenly discharged over the entire area of ​​the discharge portion (140).

[0127] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a dehumidifier according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 6 is a front perspective view showing a support rim according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 7 is a front perspective view showing a discharge vane according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 8 is a front perspective view showing a vane link according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 9 is a front perspective view showing a link guide according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of Fig. 1, and Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line 10-10 of Fig. 1.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 11, the dehumidifier (10) may include a second case (120) to which a water tank (130) is coupled, a partition plate (151) disposed on an upper surface of the second case (120), a fan assembly (200) disposed on an upper surface of the partition plate (151), a vane assembly (300) disposed inside the fan assembly (200), and a first case (110) disposed on an upper side of the second case (120) and covering the fan assembly (200).

[0129] The above fan assembly (200) may include a housing body (210) that accommodates a fan (230) and has an open rear end.

[0130] The housing body (210) may include a fan mounting portion (211) on which the fan (230) is mounted. For rotation of the fan (230), the fan (230) may be installed away from the fan mounting portion (211).

[0131] A fan motor for rotating the fan (230) may be installed at the inner center of the fan mounting portion (211). A motor support portion for supporting the fan motor may be provided at the inner center of the fan mounting portion (211).

[0132] The above housing body (210) may further include a first discharge part (216) connected to the discharge part (140).

[0133] The first discharge part (216) may be formed to extend from the end of the fan mounting part (211). The first discharge part (216) may have a shape with an open upper surface.

[0134] The fan assembly (200) may further include an orifice (220) covering a portion of the open end of the housing body (210).

[0135] The above orifice (220) may be coupled to the front of the housing body (210). The above orifice (220) may include an orifice body (221) that forms an intake port through which air passing through the heat exchanger (180) is sucked. The intake port is formed on one axial side of the fan (230) and may have a roughly circular shape.

[0136] The above orifice (220) may include a second discharge part (226) provided at the upper end of the orifice body (221) and aligned with the first discharge part (216) of the housing body (210). When the first and second discharge parts (216, 226) are assembled, a discharge part having a circular shape corresponding to the discharge portion (140) may be formed.

[0137] The vane assembly (300) can be mounted on the part where the first discharge part (216) and the second discharge part (226) are assembled. The vane assembly (300) can be mounted on the upper part of the first and second discharge parts (216, 226).

[0138] The above orifice (220) may be provided at the upper portion of the suction port, and a support plate (228) supporting the upper portion of the heat exchanger (180) may be provided. The heat exchanger (180) may be placed in the space between the support plate (228) and the partition plate (151).

[0139] The above orifice (220) may further include a chamfer portion that extends in a direction that increases the air discharge area from the support plate (228) toward the second discharge part (226).

[0140] The above chamfered portion may have a flow path cross-sectional area that expands upward so that air passing through the fan (230) can expand and be discharged toward the discharge portion (140). This configuration has the advantage of increasing the discharge area of ​​the discharged air.

[0141] A mounting bracket (224) for mounting the vane assembly (300) can be installed in the above orifice (220).

[0142] The above mounting bracket (224) may be placed on the upper inner side of the orifice (220). The above mounting bracket (224) may be placed in the chamfered portion of the orifice (220).

[0143] The vane assembly (300) can be mounted on the upper surface of the mounting bracket (224). The vane assembly (300) can be rotated while mounted on the mounting bracket (224). The vane assembly (300) can be rotated inside the first and second discharge parts (216, 226) and open and close the discharge portion (140).

[0144] The above-mentioned vane assembly (300) may include a support rim (310) rotatably provided on the inside of the discharge portion (140), a discharge vane (320) movably provided on the inside of the support rim (310), and a vane link (330) coupled to the discharge vane (330) to guide the movement of the discharge vane (320).

[0145] The above vane assembly (300) may further include a link guide (340) that is selectively coupled with the vane link (330) to control the movement of the discharge vane (320), a drive gear (350) coupled to the outside of the support rim (310), and a drive motor (360) that rotates the drive gear (350).

[0146] The above support rim (310) may be installed rotatably and positioned on the inside of the discharge portion (140). The support rim (310) may be inserted into the inner circumferential surface of the discharge portion (140). The support rim (310) may be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise while inserted into the inside of the discharge portion (140).

[0147] The above support rim (310) may include a rim body (311).

[0148] The rim body (311) may be placed on the inside of the discharge portion (140). The rim body (311) may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape. The rim body (311) may be formed in a ring shape.

[0149] The diameter of the rim body (311) may be formed to correspond to the diameter of the discharge portion (140). Air discharged from the fan (230) may be discharged to the outside of the discharge portion (140) through the inside of the rim body (311). The rim body (311) may form a path through which air is discharged.

[0150] The above support rim (310) may further include a coupling protrusion (312).

[0151] The above-mentioned coupling protrusion (312) is configured to couple with the discharge vane (320). The coupling protrusion (312) may be formed on the inner surface of the rim body (311). The coupling protrusion (312) may be formed to protrude inward from the inner surface of the rim body (311). The coupling protrusion (312) may be formed of an elastically deformable material.

[0152] The above-mentioned coupling protrusions (312) may be formed in multiple pieces spaced apart from the inner surface of the rim body (311). The multiple coupling protrusions (312) may be arranged spaced apart from each other along the inner circumference of the inner surface of the rim body (311). The multiple coupling protrusions (312) may protrude from the inner surface of the rim body (311) with different lengths and may be coupled to the discharge vane (320).

[0153] The above support rim (310) may further include a vane stopper (313).

[0154] The above vane stopper (313) is configured to limit the movement or rotation angle of the discharge vane (320). The vane stopper (313) may be formed on the inner surface of the rim body (311). The vane stopper (313) may be formed to protrude inward from the inner surface of the rim body (311).

[0155] The above-mentioned vane stopper (313) may be positioned at a higher point than the above-mentioned coupling protrusion (312). The above-mentioned vane stopper (313) may be extended circumferentially from the inner surface of the rim body (311) so as to come into contact with the end of the discharge vane (320) when the discharge vane (320) moves.

[0156] The above support rim (310) may further include a gear portion (314).

[0157] The gear portion (314) may be configured to rotate the support rim (310) and may be coupled with the driving gear (350). The gear portion (314) may be formed on the outer surface of the rim body (311). The gear portion (314) may be formed to surround the outer surface of the rim body (311). The gear portion (314) may be positioned at approximately the middle point of the outer surface of the rim body (311).

[0158] The above support rim (310) may further include a plurality of bearings (315, 316).

[0159] The above-described plurality of bearings (315, 316) have the function of reducing friction caused by rotation of the support rim (310) and restricting the up-and-down movement of the support rim (310).

[0160] The above multiple bearings (315, 316) may include an upper bearing (315) and a lower bearing (316).

[0161] The upper bearing (315) may be provided on the outer surface of the rim body (311). The upper bearing (315) is provided on the outer side of the rim body (311) and may be in contact with the inner side of the first case (110). The upper bearing (315) may be in contact with the inner side of the upper surface of the first case (110) forming the discharge portion (140).

[0162] The upper bearing (315) may be spaced apart from the upper side of the gear part (314). The upper bearings (315) may be formed in multiple pieces spaced apart from the outer surface of the rim body (311). The multiple upper bearings (315) may be spaced apart at regular intervals along the periphery of the outer surface of the rim body (311).

[0163] The lower bearing (316) may be provided on the outer surface of the rim body (311). The lower bearing (316) is provided on the outer side of the rim body (311) and may be in contact with the upper portion of the fan housing (201).

[0164] Specifically, a bearing rail (227) on which the lower bearing (316) is mounted can be formed in the first and second discharge parts (216, 226) of the fan housing (201).

[0165] The bearing rail (227) may be formed by being sunken downward along the outer edges of the first and second discharge parts (216, 226). The bearing rail (227) may be formed to surround the outer perimeter of the first and second discharge parts (216, 226). The bearing rail (227) may form a groove having a circular belt shape.

[0166] The lower bearing (316) can be supported by being seated on the bearing rail (227). The lower bearing (316) can rotate while moving along the inner side of the bearing rail (227).

[0167] The lower bearing (316) may be spaced apart from each other and arranged on the lower side of the gear portion (314). The lower bearings (316) may be formed in multiple pieces spaced apart from each other on the outer surface of the rim body (311). The multiple lower bearings (316) may be spaced apart at regular intervals along the perimeter of the outer surface of the rim body (311).

[0168] The above-described plurality of upper bearings (315) and the above-described plurality of lower bearings (316) may be alternately arranged one by one on the outer circumference of the rim body (311). The above-described plurality of upper bearings (315) and the above-described plurality of lower bearings (316) may be arranged spaced apart from each other so as not to overlap in the vertical direction.

[0169] The discharge vane (320) is coupled to the inner side of the support rim (310) and can selectively open and close the flow path of the support rim (310). The discharge vane (320) may have a shape corresponding to the inner shape of the support rim (310). The discharge vane (320) may be installed so as to be movable or rotatable on the inner side of the support rim (310).

[0170] The above discharge vane (320) may include a plurality of vanes (321 to 326).

[0171] The above-described plurality of vanes (321 to 326) may be arranged to extend longwise in the front-back direction and spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction. The above-described plurality of vanes (321 to 326) may be arranged to cover the open upper surface of the support rim (310).

[0172] The above plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can be connected to each other by the vane link (330). By the left-right movement of the vane link (330), the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can rotate together to selectively open and close the discharge portion (140).

[0173] The above plurality of vanes (321 to 326) may include a coupling rib (3211) for coupling with a coupling protrusion (312) of the support rim (310). A coupling groove into which the coupling protrusion (312) is fitted is formed in the coupling rib (3211).

[0174] The above-described coupling rib (3211) may be formed by protruding from one side of each of the plurality of vanes (321 to 326). The above-described coupling rib (3211) may protrude downward from the bottom surface of each of the plurality of vanes (321 to 326). The above-described coupling rib (3211) may be formed as a pair on the bottom surface of each of the plurality of vanes (321 to 326). The pair of coupling ribs (3211) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction.

[0175] The above plurality of vanes (321 to 326) may further include a link connecting portion (3212) for coupling with the vane link (330). A hook hole is formed in the link connecting portion (3212) into which a coupling hook (3321) to be described later is fitted. The hook hole may penetrate the link connecting portion (3212) in the front-rear direction.

[0176] The above link connecting portion (3212) may be formed by protruding from one side of each of the plurality of vanes (321 to 326). The link connecting portion (3212) may protrude downward from the bottom surface of each of the plurality of vanes (321 to 326). The link connecting portion (3212) may be positioned at the center of the bottom surface of each of the plurality of vanes (321 to 326). The link connecting portion (3212) may be positioned between the pair of connecting ribs (3211).

[0177] The above-mentioned vein link (330) is connected to the discharge vein (330) and allows the discharge vein (330) to move or rotate.

[0178] The above-mentioned vane link (330) can connect the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) to each other. When the above-mentioned vane link (330) moves left and right, the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can rotate together and move left and right.

[0179] The above-mentioned vein link (330) may include a link body (331) and a plurality of link extensions (332 to 337) extending upward from the link body (331).

[0180] The above link body (331) may be formed in a rod or bar shape. The link body (331) may extend in the left and right directions of the dehumidifier. The link body (331) may extend in the direction in which the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) are arranged.

[0181] The above-described plurality of link extensions (332 to 337) may extend upward from the link body (331) and be coupled with the discharge vane (320). The above-described plurality of link extensions (332 to 337) may be spaced apart from each other in the left and right directions from the link body (331).

[0182] Each of the above multiple link extensions (332 to 337) may be formed with a coupling hook (3321) for coupling to the link connection portion (3212) of the discharge vane (320). The coupling hook (3321) may be formed of an elastically deformable material.

[0183] The above-mentioned coupling hook (3321) can protrude forward from each of the plurality of link extensions (332 to 337). The above-mentioned coupling hook (3321) can be fastened to the hook hole of the link connecting portion (3212).

[0184] When the above-mentioned coupling hook (3321) is fastened to the link connecting portion (3212), the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can move together by the movement of the link body (331).

[0185] For example, when the link body (331) moves left and right, the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can rotate together and move left and right.

[0186] On the other hand, when the link body (331) receives a force in the longitudinal direction, the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can be rotated in the up-and-down direction.

[0187] The above-mentioned vein link (330) may further include a support shaft (338) provided at an end of the link body (331) and a link bearing (339) provided at the lower side of the support shaft (338).

[0188] The above support shaft (338) may be formed at an end of the link body (331) to support the link body (331). The support shaft (338) may extend downward from the end of the link body (331). The support shaft (338) may be formed in a rod or cylindrical shape.

[0189] The above link bearing (339) is formed at the lower end of the support shaft (338) and can be selectively brought into contact with the link guide (340). The link bearing (339) can move together with the support rim (310) when it rotates and can move toward the inside of the link guide (340).

[0190] In the process of the above link bearing (339) moving inside the above link guide (340), the link body (331) can receive a force in the longitudinal direction. When the link body (331) receives a force in the longitudinal direction, the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can open or close.

[0191] For example, when the link body (331) receives a force toward the center inner side of the support rim (310), the link body (331) can move in a direction in which the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) close.

[0192] As another example, when the link body (331) receives a force toward the outside of the support rim (410), the link body (331) can move in the direction in which the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) open.

[0193] The above link guide (340) is a portion that the link bearing (339) selectively contacts and can guide the movement of the link bearing (339). The link bearing (339) can move inward of the link guide (340) along a groove formed in the link guide (340).

[0194] The above link guide (340) may be formed in an approximately circular arc shape. The link guide (340) may be formed in an arc shape that is narrow and long. The link guide (340) may extend circumferentially along the inner circumference of the support rim (310). The link guide (340) may be mounted on the inner side of the orifice (220).

[0195] Specifically, the link guide (340) can be installed on the mounting bracket (224) of the orifice (220). The link guide (340) can be placed on the inside of the discharge portion (140) and on the lower side of the support rim (310).

[0196] The above link guide (340) may include a guide groove (341) for the link bearing (339) to move along the inside.

[0197] The above guide groove (341) may be formed by being sunken downward from the upper surface of the link guide (340). The guide groove (341) may extend in a circumferential direction from an end of the link guide (340). The guide groove (341) may extend from one end of the link guide (340) to the other end.

[0198] The above link guide (340) may further include an opening (342) forming an entrance to the guide groove (341).

[0199] The above opening (342) may be formed by opening an end of the link guide (340). The opening (342) may be connected to the guide groove (341). One end of the link guide (340) may be open and the other end may be closed. That is, one end of the guide groove (341) may be open and the other end may be closed.

[0200] The above link guide (340) may include a plurality of sections forming the bottom surface of the guide groove (341). The link bearing (339) may be sequentially moved along the plurality of sections within the guide groove (341).

[0201] The above multiple sections may include a first section (343), a second section (344), and a third section (345). The first section (343), the second section (344), and the third section (345) may be sequentially connected.

[0202] The first section (343) may be defined as a section from the opening (342) to a certain point of the guide groove (341). For example, the length of the first section (343) may be a length corresponding to one-third of the length of the guide groove (341).

[0203] When the link bearing (339) is positioned in the first section (343), the distance between the link bearing (339) and the center of the support rim (310) can be the furthest.

[0204] When the distance between the center of the link bearing (339) and the support rim (310) becomes the greatest, the link body (331) receives a force in the outward direction of the support rim (310), and accordingly, the link body (331) moves outward so that the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can open.

[0205] That is, during the process in which the link bearing (339) moves through the first section (343), the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can be maintained in an open state.

[0206] The second section (344) may be defined as a section from the end point of the first section (343) to a certain point of the guide groove (341). For example, the length of the second section (344) may be a length corresponding to one-third of the length of the guide groove (341).

[0207] When the link bearing (339) is positioned in the second section (344), the distance between the link bearing (339) and the center of the support rim (310) can be shortened.

[0208] When the distance between the center of the link bearing (339) and the support rim (310) becomes closer, the link body (331) receives a force in the inward direction of the support rim (310), and accordingly, the link body (331) moves inward, so that the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can be closed.

[0209] That is, during the process in which the link bearing (339) moves through the second section (344), the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can be maintained in a closed state.

[0210]

[0211] *The third section (345) may be defined as a section from the end point of the second section (343) to the end point of the guide groove (341). For example, the length of the third section (345) may be one-third of the length of the guide groove (341).

[0212] When the link bearing (339) is positioned in the third section (345), the distance between the link bearing (339) and the center of the support rim (310) can be the closest.

[0213] When the distance between the center of the link bearing (339) and the support rim (310) becomes the shortest, the link body (331) receives the maximum force in the inward direction of the support rim (310), and accordingly, the link body (331) is pressed inward, so that the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can be completely closed.

[0214] In order to completely close the plurality of vanes (321 to 326), at least a portion of the third section (345) may be formed to be inclined. That is, the third section (345) includes an upwardly inclined slope, and the plurality of vanes (321 to 326) can be strongly maintained in a closed state while the link bearing (339) rises along the inclined surface of the third section (345).

[0215] The above driving gear (350) is coupled to the gear portion (314) of the support rim (310). The driving gear (350) may be arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the support rim (310). The rotational axis of the driving gear (350) may be connected to the driving motor (360).

[0216] The above driving motor (360) is coupled to the rotational axis of the driving gear (350). The driving motor (360) is located below the driving gear (350) and can rotate the driving gear (350). The driving motor (360) can be mounted on the orifice (220). The driving motor (360) can be positioned on the radially outer side of the support rim (310).

[0217] Figures 12 to 15 are plan views of a dehumidifier showing the discharge vane of the vane assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention being opened.

[0218] Referring to FIGS. 12 to 15, when power is applied to the dehumidifier (10), the driving motor (360) is driven to rotate the support rim (310), thereby allowing the discharge vane (320) to open.

[0219] The above support rim (310) can be rotated up to an angle of 345 degrees based on the center (C) of the discharge portion (140). When the support rim (310) is rotated, the discharge vane (320) and the vane link (330) connected to the support rim (310) can be rotated together.

[0220] The link bearing (339) may be introduced into or withdrawn from the link guide (340) while moving along the support rim (310). The link bearing (339) may move from the inside to the outside of the link guide (340) or from the outside to the inside of the link guide (340) depending on the rotational direction of the support rim (310).

[0221] As shown in Fig. 12, in the initial state where the support rim (310) is stopped, the link bearing (339) can be located inside the link guide (340).

[0222] When the link bearing (339) is located inside the link guide (340), the link body (331) can receive an inward force from the support rim (310) and move in a direction that closes the discharge vane (320).

[0223] As shown in Fig. 13, when the support rim (310) is rotated in a 90 degree direction, the link bearing (339) can be located outside the link guide (340).

[0224] When the link bearing (339) is withdrawn from the link guide (340), the link body (331) can receive an outward force from the support rim (310) and move in a direction that opens the discharge vane (320). As a result, the discharge vane (320) is opened, and air discharge to the side and upper sides of the dehumidifier (10) can be facilitated.

[0225] As shown in Fig. 14, when the support rim (310) is rotated in a 180 degree direction, the link bearing (339) can be located outside the link guide (340).

[0226] When the link bearing (339) is positioned outside the link guide (340), the discharge vane (320) can be maintained open. Accordingly, air discharge toward the front and upper side of the dehumidifier (10) can be facilitated.

[0227] As shown in Fig. 15, when the support rim (310) is rotated to the maximum in the 345 degree direction, the link bearing (339) can be located outside the link guide (340).

[0228] When the link bearing (339) is positioned outside the link guide (340), the discharge vane (320) can be maintained open. Accordingly, air discharge toward the rear and upper side of the dehumidifier (10) can be facilitated.

[0229] In summary, when the link bearing (339) is positioned inside the link guide (340), the discharge vane (320) can be maintained in a closed state, and when the link bearing (339) is positioned outside the link guide (340), the discharge vane (320) can be maintained in an open state.

[0230] And the dehumidifier (10) can control the reciprocating rotation of the support rim (310) so that the discharge vane (320) remains open. For example, the dehumidifier (10) can control the link bearing (339) to reciprocate from a 70 degree direction to a 345 degree direction section.

[0231] FIGS. 16 to 19 are plan views of a dehumidifier showing the discharge vane of the vane assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention being closed.

[0232] Referring to FIGS. 16 to 19, the discharge vane (320) can be closed during the process in which the link bearing (339) is introduced into the inside of the link guide (340).

[0233] As described above, the link bearing (339) can move sequentially along the first section (343), the second section (344), and the third section (345) through the opening (342) of the link guide (340) and move to the end of the link guide (340).

[0234] The above first section (343) can be defined as a section from the opening (342) to the first point (P1) of the guide groove (341).

[0235] The above second section (344) can be defined as the section from the first point (P1) to the second point (P2).

[0236] The third section (345) above can be defined as a section from the second point (P2) to the third point (P3) corresponding to the end of the link guide (340).

[0237] Here, the distance (L2) from the center (C) of the discharge portion (140) to the second point (P2) may be smaller than the distance (L1) from the center (C) of the discharge portion (140) to the first point (P1) and larger than the distance (L3) from the center (C) of the discharge portion (140) to the third point (P3).

[0238] That is, as the link bearing (339) moves more and more toward the inside of the link guide (340), the distance between the center (C) of the discharge portion (140) and the link bearing (339) can become closer and closer.

[0239] In this embodiment, when the link bearing (339) passes the first point (P1) and enters the second section (344), the link body (331) receives a force in the inward direction of the support rim (310), and as a result, the discharge vane (320) may begin to close.

[0240] In addition, when the link bearing (339) passes the second point (P2) and enters the third section (345), the link body (331) receives the maximum force in the inward direction of the support rim (310), and as a result, the discharge vane (320) can be completely closed.

[0241] At this time, in the process of the link bearing (339) rising along the inclined surface of the third section (345), the link body (331) can strongly maintain the closed state of the discharge vane (320).

[0242] When the link bearing (339) reaches the third point (P3), the driving of the driving motor (360) may be stopped and the support rim (310) may be stopped. In this case, the discharge vane (320) may be completely closed, completely closing the discharge portion (140).

[0243] Meanwhile, when the driving motor (360) is driven again while the discharge vane (320) is closed, the discharge vane (320) may open in the process of the link bearing (339) being pulled out from the link guide (340).

[0244] When the link bearing (339) passes the second point (P2) and enters the second section (344), the link body (331) receives a force in the outward direction of the support rim (310), and as a result, the discharge vane (320) may begin to open.

[0245] In addition, when the link bearing (339) passes the first point (P1) and enters the first section (343), the link body (331) receives the maximum force in the outward direction of the support rim (310), and as a result, the discharge vane (320) can be completely opened. In this case, the discharge vane (320) is completely opened, so that the discharge portion (140) can be completely opened.

[0246] And, the opening of the discharge vane (320) can be maintained during the process in which the link bearing (339) is pulled out from the link guide (340) and swings back and forth.

[0247] According to the configuration of the present invention, the discharge part of the dehumidifier can be automatically opened and closed using a single motor, and the airflow can be controlled not only in the left and right directions but also in the up and down directions, so there is an advantage in that the airflow can be controlled at various angles.

Claims

1. A main body including an intake part through which air for dehumidification is sucked in and an exhaust part through which dehumidified air is discharged; A dehumidifying module placed inside the above body; A fan assembly disposed inside the main body, which sucks in air for dehumidification and discharges the dehumidified air to the discharge unit; and It includes a vane assembly that is rotatably provided on the inside of the discharge portion to control the discharge direction of air discharged to the discharge portion, A dehumidifier characterized in that the above-mentioned vane assembly opens or closes the discharge portion during a process of rotating inside the discharge portion.

2. In paragraph 1, The above vane assembly, A support rim rotatably provided on the inside of the above discharge portion; A discharge vane movably provided on the inside of the above support rim; and A dehumidifier comprising a vane link coupled to the discharge vane and guiding the movement of the discharge vane.

3. In paragraph 2, The above vane assembly, a driving gear coupled to the outer side of the above support rim; and A dehumidifier further comprising a drive motor for rotating the above drive gear.

4. In paragraph 3, The above support rim is, a rim body formed in a ring shape; and A dehumidifier including a gear portion formed on the outer surface of the rim body and coupled with the driving gear.

5. In paragraph 4, A dehumidifier in which the above support rim further includes a bearing formed on the outer surface of the rim body to restrict the up-and-down movement of the rim body.

6. In paragraph 5, The above bearings, An upper bearing arranged on the upper side of the gear portion; and A dehumidifier including a lower bearing arranged on the lower side of the above gear part.

7. In paragraph 4, A dehumidifier wherein the support rim further includes a coupling protrusion formed on the inner surface of the rim body and coupled with the discharge vane.

8. In paragraph 7, The above discharge vane comprises a plurality of vanes spaced apart from each other, A dehumidifier in which the plurality of vanes include a coupling rib having a coupling groove formed into which the coupling protrusion is fitted.

9. In paragraph 2, A dehumidifier wherein the vane assembly further includes a link guide that selectively contacts a portion of the vane link to guide movement of the vane link.

10. In paragraph 9, The above vein link is, Link body; A link extension extending upward from the link body and connected to the discharge vane; a support shaft extending downward from the above link body; and A dehumidifier comprising a link bearing formed at the lower end of the support shaft and selectively contacting the link guide.

11. In paragraph 10, In the above link extension, a coupling hook is formed, A dehumidifier in which a link connecting portion that is connected to the above-mentioned coupling hook and rotates is formed in the above-mentioned discharge vane.

12. In paragraph 10, A dehumidifier in which a guide groove is formed in the above link guide so that the link bearing moves along the inside of the above link guide.

13. In paragraph 12, The above guide home is a dehumidifier formed by recessing downward from the upper surface of the link guide.

14. In paragraph 13, A dehumidifier in which the discharge vane begins to close as the link bearing moves inwardly of the guide groove.

15. In paragraph 13, A dehumidifier in which the discharge vane begins to open as the link bearing moves outward from the guide groove.

16. In paragraph 13, The above link guide forms the bottom surface of the guide groove and includes a plurality of sections through which the link bearing moves sequentially, The above multiple sections are, A first section defined as a section from the entrance of the above guide home to a certain point of the above guide home; A second section defined as a section from the end of the first section to another point of the guide home; and A dehumidifier comprising a third section defined as a section from the end of the second section to the end of the guide groove.

17. In paragraph 16, When the link bearing is located in the first section, the distance between the link bearing and the center of the support rim becomes the greatest, A dehumidifier in which the distance between the link bearing and the center of the support rim is the closest when the link bearing is located in the third section.

18. In paragraph 17, A dehumidifier in which the discharge vane begins to close during the process in which the link bearing moves from the first section to the second section.

19. In paragraph 18, A dehumidifier in which the discharge vane is completely closed during the process in which the link bearing moves from the second section to the third section.

20. In paragraph 17, A dehumidifier in which the discharge vane begins to open during the process in which the link bearing moves from the third section to the second section.

Images