Blower

Abstract

This blower comprises a fan case, a motor, and a centrifugal fan. The fan case includes a first case and a second case that are fitted together. A circulation passage and an exhaust passage that is extending in one direction are formed by the first case and the second case. The motor is fixed to the fan case, and has a rotating shaft having an axial center as the center of rotation and extending in an axial direction in which the axial center extends. The centrifugal fan is housed in the fan case and is attached to the rotating shaft. Each of the first case and the second case has a circulation passage-side wall constituting the circulation passage, and an exhaust passage-side wall continuing from the circulation passage-side wall and constituting the exhaust passage. An abutting portion of the circulation passage-side wall and the exhaust passage-side wall of the first case is defined as a first abutting portion. An abutting portion of the circulation passage-side wall and the exhaust passage-side wall of the second case is defined as a second abutting portion. The first case and the second case are arranged to face each other and are fitted together in the axial direction. The first abutting portion protrudes toward the second abutting portion, and has a recessed groove extending along an air circulation direction in which the circulation passage-side wall and the exhaust passage-side wall extend. The second abutting portion has a ridge that extends along the air circulation direction and is inserted into the recessed groove. The ridge has, in a portion in the air circulation direction, a low-rigidity portion having lower rigidity than that of a general portion other than the portion. The low-rigidity portion has a low protrusion with a low protruding height, and a middle protrusion that is positioned at an intermediate portion of the low protrusion in the air circulation direction and has a protruding height higher than that of the low protrusion.

Description

blower

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a blower.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a blower having a fan case, a motor, and a centrifugal fan fixed to the fan case. The blower generates airflow in the centrifugal fan by the rotation of the motor, and directs the airflow through a flow path in the fan case and finally discharges it from an exhaust port.

[0003] The blower described in Patent Document 1 is attached to a vehicle body via a fixing member. The fixing member is integrally formed with a fan case. The fan case includes a first member (upper case) and a second member (lower case). The fan case is assembled by fitting a downwardly facing protrusion of the upper case into an upwardly facing recess of the lower case.

[0004] In such a structure, the fan case of the blower deforms when the upper and lower cases are combined, making it difficult to ensure dimensional accuracy when attached to the vehicle body. To explain further, the lower case is formed with high rigidity because the portion of the lower case that is directly attached to the vehicle body requires dimensional accuracy. The upper case is formed with low rigidity because it is not directly attached to the vehicle body. In this case, if the rigidity of the portion of the upper case that fits into the portion of the lower case that requires dimensional accuracy becomes relatively high, the portion of the lower case that requires dimensional accuracy will deform significantly. This makes it difficult to ensure dimensional accuracy in the portion that requires dimensional accuracy.

[0005] International Publication No. 2023 / 188813

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a blower in which deformation of the fan case is suppressed.

[0007] A blower according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a fan case, a motor, and a centrifugal fan. The fan case has a first case and a second case that fit together. The first case and the second case form a circulation passage and an exhaust passage that extends in one direction. The motor is fixed to the fan case and has a rotating shaft that rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction of the axis. The centrifugal fan is housed within the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft. Each of the first case and the second case has a circulation passage sidewall that forms the circulation passage, and an exhaust passage sidewall that is continuous with the circulation passage sidewall and forms the exhaust passage.

[0008] The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the first case is defined as a first abutting portion. The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the second case is defined as a second abutting portion that abuts against the first abutting portion. The first case and the second case are fitted together in the axial direction while facing each other, and the first abutting portion protrudes toward the second abutting portion and has a recessed groove that extends along the air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall extend. The second abutting portion has a protruding rib that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove.

[0009] The protrusions have a low-rigidity portion in a portion in the air flow direction that is lower in rigidity than a general portion other than the portion, and the low-rigidity portion has a low protrusion with a low protrusion height and a middle protrusion located in an intermediate portion in the air flow direction of the low protrusion with a protrusion height higher than that of the low protrusion.

[0010] A blower according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a fan case, a motor, and a centrifugal fan. The fan case has a first case and a second case that fit together. The first case and the second case form a circulation passage and an exhaust passage that extends in one direction. The motor is fixed to the fan case and has a rotating shaft that rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction of the axis. The centrifugal fan is housed within the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft. Each of the first case and the second case has a circulation passage sidewall that forms the circulation passage, and an exhaust passage sidewall that is continuous with the circulation passage sidewall and forms the exhaust passage.

[0011] The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the first case is defined as a first abutting portion. The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the second case is defined as a second abutting portion that abuts against the first abutting portion. The first case and the second case are fitted together in the axial direction while facing each other, and the first abutting portion protrudes toward the second abutting portion and has a recessed groove that extends along the air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall extend. The second abutting portion has a protruding rib that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove.

[0012] The thickness of the tip end of the ridge in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness of the base end, and the width of the innermost portion of the groove before the tip end is inserted is smaller than the thickness of the tip end before being inserted into the groove.

[0013] A blower according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a fan case, a motor, and a centrifugal fan. The fan case has a first case and a second case that fit together. The first case and the second case form a circulation passage and an exhaust passage that extends in one direction. The motor is fixed to the fan case and has a rotating shaft that rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction of the axis. The centrifugal fan is housed within the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft. Each of the first case and the second case has a circulation passage sidewall that forms the circulation passage, and an exhaust passage sidewall that is continuous with the circulation passage sidewall and forms the exhaust passage.

[0014] The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the first case is defined as a first abutting portion. The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the second case is defined as a second abutting portion that abuts against the first abutting portion. The first case and the second case are fitted together in the axial direction while facing each other, and the first abutting portion protrudes toward the second abutting portion and has a recessed groove that extends along the air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall extend. The second abutting portion has a protruding rib that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove.

[0015] The thickness of the tip end of the ridge in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness of the base end. The center position of the groove and the center position of the ridge are offset in an inward / outward direction that intersects the protruding direction and the air flow direction.

[0016] A blower according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a fan case, a motor, and a centrifugal fan. The fan case has a first case and a second case that fit together. The first case and the second case form a circulation passage and an exhaust passage that extends in one direction. The motor is fixed to the fan case and has a rotating shaft that rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction of the axis. The centrifugal fan is housed within the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft. Each of the first case and the second case has a circulation passage sidewall that forms the circulation passage, and an exhaust passage sidewall that is continuous with the circulation passage sidewall and forms the exhaust passage.

[0017] The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the first case is defined as a first abutting portion. The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the second case is defined as a second abutting portion that abuts against the first abutting portion. The first case and the second case are fitted together in the axial direction while facing each other, and the first abutting portion protrudes toward the second abutting portion and has a recessed groove that extends along the air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall extend. The second abutting portion has a protruding rib that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove.

[0018] The ridges have a plurality of high protrusions at a plurality of locations in the air flow direction, each having a protrusion height greater than that of other portions of the ridges. The high protrusions increase in height or decrease in height in the air flow direction.

[0019] According to the present disclosure, deformation of the fan case is suppressed.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a blower according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a side view of the same. FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the same. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement between the recessed groove and the protruding strip of the same. FIG. 5 is a bottom (inner) view of a second case of the same. FIG. 6 is a top (inner) view of a first case of the same. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the assembly of the fan case of the same. FIG. 8 is an enlarged side view of a low-rigidity portion of the same. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement between the recessed groove and the protruding strip of the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement between the recessed groove and the protruding strip of the third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement between the recessed groove and the protruding strip of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 12 is a partially enlarged side view of a second butting portion of a blower according to a fifth embodiment. Fig. 13 is a partially enlarged side view of a first butt portion and a second butt portion of a blower according to a sixth embodiment. Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram of a moving body provided with a blower.

[0021] Hereinafter, a blower and a vehicle according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Each figure described in the following embodiments is a schematic diagram. The size and thickness of components in the figures do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensions. The size ratio and thickness ratio of components do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratio. The configuration described in the following embodiments is merely an example of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0022] First Embodiment (1) Basic Configuration and Basic Operation of the Fan The basic configuration and basic operation of the fan 1 will be described using FIGS. 1 to 7. FIG. 1 is a plan view of the fan 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a side view of the fan 1. FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fan 1. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement between the recessed grooves and the protruding strips of the fan 1. FIG. 5 is a bottom (inner) view of the second case 6 of the fan 1. FIG. 6 is a top (inner) view of the first case 5 of the fan 1. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the assembly of the fan case 2 of the fan 1. The fan 1 is, for example, a fan for cooling a battery in a vehicle. Specifically, the fan 1 is a centrifugal fan blower.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 3 , the blower 1 mainly includes a fan case 2, a motor 3, and a centrifugal fan 4. The motor 3 and the centrifugal fan 4 are housed inside the fan case 2. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the fan case 2 also includes an intake port 15 and an exhaust port 16. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the fan case 2 further includes a circulation passage 13 and an exhaust passage 14. The intake port 15 draws in outside air. The intake port 15 is circular. The exhaust port 16 exhausts air toward the outside space. The exhaust port 16 is rectangular. The circulation passage 13 and the exhaust passage 14 are passages connecting the intake port 15 and the exhaust port 16. Air is drawn into the fan case 2 through the intake port 15, flows through the circulation passage 13 and the exhaust passage 14 in that order, and is exhausted through the exhaust port 16.

[0024] The motor 3 is, for example, an inner rotor type brushless motor. The motor 3 is not limited to a brushless motor, and may be another type of DC motor or AC motor. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3 , the direction in which the axis X1 of the rotating shaft 44 of the motor 3 extends is defined as the axial direction A1 (axial direction). In a plane perpendicular to the axial direction A1, the direction perpendicular to the axis X1 is defined as the radial direction, and the direction going around the axis X1 is defined as the circumferential direction.

[0025] The centrifugal fan 4 is a component consisting of two opposing annular members with multiple blade members connected at a predetermined interval between them. The centrifugal fan 4 is connected to the rotating shaft 44 of the motor 3 so as to rotate integrally with the fan. The blade members can be made of either metal or resin. The centrifugal fan 4 rotates in the circumferential direction at a predetermined speed in response to the rotation of the motor 3, thereby drawing in outside air through the intake port 15 and compressing it.

[0026] (2) Fan Case The fan case 2 is a hollow member formed by molding resin. The fan case 2 has an air intake port 15 on the top surface. The fan case 2 is substantially cylindrical and houses the motor 3 and centrifugal fan 4.

[0027] Specifically, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the fan case 2 has an upper wall, side walls, and lower walls of the circulation passage 13 and the exhaust passage 14. The fan case 2 is configured to cover the centrifugal fan 4. As a result of this configuration, the circulation passage 13 and the exhaust passage 14 are formed inside the fan case 2, following the outer periphery of the centrifugal fan 4. In a plan view, the circulation passage 13 extends in a circular shape so as to surround the outer periphery of the centrifugal fan 4. The exhaust passage 14 extends linearly in the exhaust direction B1 (one direction). The circulation passage 13 is an internal space that guides air drawn in through the intake port 15 to the exhaust passage 14 when the centrifugal fan 4 rotates due to the rotation transmitted from the motor 3. The cross-sectional area of ​​the circulation passage 13, including the axis X1, gradually increases toward the exhaust passage 14.

[0028] The air intake 15 is an inlet for drawing air into, for example, the vehicle cabin. The air intake 15 is formed on the axial end face (the upper end face in FIG. 5 ) of the substantially cylindrical fan case 2 that faces the vehicle cabin. The air intake 15 is an opening with an inner diameter that is approximately the same as or slightly smaller than that of the centrifugal fan 4. The air intake 15 communicates with the vehicle cabin via a duct (not shown).

[0029] The exhaust port 16 opens in a direction that is twisted relative to the axial direction. That is, air drawn in along the axis X1 of the centrifugal fan 4 toward the fan case 2 is exhausted in a direction that is twisted relative to the axis X1.

[0030] Fan case 2 is made of resin such as polypropylene. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, fan case 2 is divided into a lower first case 5 and an upper second case 6. As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 6, a plurality of protrusions 21 are provided at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction on the outer side surface of first case 5. In this embodiment, six protrusions 21 are formed, protrusions 211 to 216 (see Figure 6).

[0031] 1, 2, and 5, a plurality of hooks 22 are provided at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction on the side surface of the second case 6. In this embodiment, six hooks 22, 221 to 226, are formed (see FIG. 5). The hooks 22 are respectively engaged with the protrusions 21, thereby connecting the first case 5 and the second case 6.

[0032] The intake port 15 is formed by the second case 6. The exhaust port 16 is formed by fitting the second case 6 and the first case 5 together.

[0033] 3, the centrifugal fan 4 is fixed to the motor 3. The motor 3 is fixed to the first case 5.

[0034] The fan case 2 has a seal sponge 19 at the exhaust port 16 for exhaust. More specifically, the first case 5 has the seal sponge 19. The exhaust port 16 has an opening surface whose normal is perpendicular to the axial direction A1. The fan case 2 has a flange 23 to which the seal sponge 19 is attached. The flange 23 and the seal sponge 19 are portions into which, for example, a duct (not shown) is fitted.

[0035] (3) First Case As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 6, the first case 5 is a member that constitutes the lower portion of the circulation passage 13 and the exhaust passage 14. The first case 5 is cylindrical. The first case 5 has an annular flat portion 51 and a side surface portion 52. The side surface portion 52 is a generally cylindrical portion that extends in the axial direction A1 from the outer peripheral edge of the annular flat portion 51.

[0036] 4 and 7 , the first case 5 has a first butting portion 53 that butts against the second case 6 on the edge of the side surface portion 52 (the circulation passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12) facing the second case 6. The first case 5 and the second case 6 are fitted together in the axial direction A1 while facing each other. The first butting portion 53 protrudes toward a second butting portion 63 (described later) of the second case 6. The first butting portion 53 has a recessed groove 54 that extends along the air flow direction (see the arrow in FIG. 5 ) in which the circulation passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12 extend.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, a bracket 17 is formed in the vicinity of an inflection point Y1 (described later) of the side surface portion 52 of the first case 5 corresponding to the exhaust passage 14.

[0038] (4) Second Case As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 5, the second case 6 is a member that constitutes the upper part of the circulation passage 13 and the exhaust passage 14. The second case 6 mainly has an annular flat surface portion 61 and a side surface portion 62. The annular flat surface portion 61 is a roughly flat annular portion that constitutes the intake port 15. The side surface portion 62 is a roughly cylindrical portion that extends in the axial direction A1 from the outer circumferential edge of the annular flat surface portion 61. The side surface portion 62 is shorter in the axial direction A1 than the side surface portion 52 of the first case 5.

[0039] 4 and 7 , the second case 6 has a second abutting portion 63 that abuts against the first case 5 on the edge of the side surface portion 62 (the circulation passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12) facing the first case 5. The second abutting portion 63 has a ridge 64 that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove 54. As shown in FIG. 4 , the direction that intersects the protruding direction of the ridge 64 and the air flow direction (see the arrow in FIG. 5 ) is the inward / outward direction from the inside to the outside of the circulation passage 13 or the exhaust passage 14.

[0040] The width T1 of the recessed groove 54 is about 2 mm. The width T2 of the ridge 64 is about 1.4 mm. The clearance is about 0.6 mm (about 0.3 mm on each side).

[0041] (5) Circulating Passage and Exhaust Passage In the circular passage 13, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, the side surface portion 52 of the first case 5 and the side surface portion 62 of the second case 6 form the circular passage side wall 11.

[0042] In the exhaust passage 14, the side surface portion 52 of the first case 5 and the side surface portion 62 of the second case 6 form an exhaust passage side wall 12 that continues from the circular passage side wall 11. When viewed in the axial direction A1, the circular passage side wall 11 has a shape that combines curves of different curvatures. The exhaust passage side wall 12 is generally linear. An inflection point Y1 indicates the boundary between the circular passage side wall 11 and the exhaust passage side wall 12. A straight line Z1 that extends from the inflection point Y1 and crosses the passage indicates the boundary between the circular passage 13 and the exhaust passage 14.

[0043] (6) Brackets The brackets 17 and 18 are attached to the blower 1. The brackets 17 and 18 are members for fixing the blower 1 to the frame of the vehicle. The brackets 17 and 18 are made of resin, for example, polypropylene. The brackets 17 and 18 are formed integrally with the first case 5.

[0044] (7) Assembly of the Fan and Fan Case The assembly of the fan 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 7. In the fan 1, the motor 3, first case 5, centrifugal fan 4, and second case 6 are arranged in this order from the bottom (see Figure 3). The assembly is also carried out in this order.

[0045] The first case 5 is provided with a flange 55 that frames the exhaust port 16 (see FIG. 6). The flange 55 is formed integrally and continuously so that the exhaust port 16 forms an opening closed by the first case 5 and the second case 6. The flange 55 serves as a guide when the second case 6 is attached to the first case 5.

[0046] The second case 6 has a guide groove 65 formed in a portion corresponding to the flange 55 of the exhaust passage side wall 12, into which the flange 55 is fitted (see FIG. 5).

[0047] To assemble the fan case 2, the first case 5 is placed on the motor 3, and then the second case 6 is attached from above to the first case 5 with the centrifugal fan 4 housed in the first case 5. To attach the second case 6, first, the guide groove 65 of the second case 6 is fitted into the opening flange 55 of the first case 5.

[0048] Next, hook 221 is fitted into protrusion 211. Next, hook 222 is fitted into protrusion 212. In turn, hook 223 is fitted into protrusion 213, hook 224 into protrusion 214, hook 225 into protrusion 215, and hook 226 into protrusion 216 (see FIGS. 5 and 6).

[0049] (8) A description will be given of a mobile body 91 to which the mobile body blower 1 is attached. Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram of the mobile body 91 provided with the blower. The mobile body 91 includes the blower 1, a battery 92 (object to be cooled), a control device 93, a cable 94, a cable 96, and a vehicle body 95 (main body of the mobile body).

[0050] In the example of Fig. 14, the mobile object 91 is a four-wheeled hybrid vehicle in which an engine and a driving battery 92 are mounted on a vehicle body 95. The mobile object 91 is not limited to a hybrid vehicle, but may also be an electric vehicle. The mobile object 91 on which the blower 1 is mounted is not limited to a four-wheeled vehicle, but may also be a mobile object (automobile) such as a two-wheeled vehicle or a three-wheeled vehicle. The object to be cooled may be a part other than the battery 92.

[0051] The vehicle body 95 is provided with the blower 1, a battery 92, a control device 93, a cable 94, and a cable 96.

[0052] The battery 92 is configured by, for example, a lithium ion battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, etc. The battery 92 supplies power to a drive motor and the like for propelling the mobile body 91.

[0053] The control device 93 is electrically connected to the blower 1 via a cable 94. The control device 93 controls the blower 1. More specifically, the control device 93 is electrically connected to a motor drive circuit of the blower 1 via a cable 94. The control device 93 controls the battery 92 via a cable 96. More specifically, the control device 93 controls the power supply from another battery to the blower 1, the drive motor, etc.

[0054] The blower 1 used in the mobile body 91 functions as a cooling fan system to suppress a rise in temperature of the battery 92. Air is blown from the blower 1 toward the battery 92, and the air is sent into the battery 92. This allows the battery 92 to be air-cooled, suppressing a rise in temperature of the battery 92.

[0055] (9) Low-rigidity portion of ridge 64 Figure 8 is an enlarged side view of a low-rigidity portion 66 of the blower 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 8, the ridge 64 has a low-rigidity portion 66 in a portion of the air flow direction that is lower in rigidity than the general portion other than this portion. The low-rigidity portion 66 has a low-rigidity portion 661 with a low protruding height and a middle-rigidity portion 662 located in the middle of the low-rigidity portion 661 in the air flow direction and having a higher protruding height than the low-rigidity portion 661. The protruding height of the middle-rigidity portion 662 is the same as the protruding height of the general portion of the ridge 64 other than the low-rigidity portion 66.

[0056] By providing a low-rigidity portion 66 in a portion of the ridge 64, when the ridge 64 is inserted into the recessed groove 54, the ridge 64 is more likely to deform in the portion where the low-rigidity portion 66 is provided, rather than the recessed groove 54 being deformed by the ridge 64. This prevents deformation of the recessed groove 54 (first case 5). By providing such a low-rigidity portion 66 in a location corresponding to a portion (referred to as a critical dimension portion) where deformation of the first case 5 and a decrease in dimensional accuracy must be particularly avoided, such as near the bracket 17, deformation of the critical dimension portion of the first case 5 is effectively prevented.

[0057] By providing the plurality of low-rigidity portions 66 in the air flow direction of the ridge 64, deformation of the first case 5 is further suppressed.

[0058] Second Embodiment A second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. The basic configuration of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, so differences will be mainly described. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement between the recessed groove 54 and the protruding strip 64 of the fan 1 of the second embodiment.

[0059] The thickness T22 of the tip end of the rib 64 in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness T21 of the base end. The width T12 of the innermost part of the groove 54 before the tip end is inserted is smaller than the thickness T22 of the tip end of the rib 64 before it is inserted into the groove 54. The width T11 of the groove 54 near its opening is larger than the thickness T21 of the base end of the rib 64.

[0060] Because the thickness T22 of the tip end of the ridge 64 is thinner than the thickness T21 of the base end, the rigidity of the ridge 64 can be reduced compared to when the entire ridge 64 has the thickness T21. As a result, when the ridge 64 is inserted into the recessed groove 54, the second case 6 is more likely to deform and the first case 5 is less likely to deform. As a result, the dimensional accuracy of the first case 5 can be more easily maintained.

[0061] Furthermore, the width T12 of the innermost portion of the recessed groove 54 before the ridge 64 is inserted is smaller than the thickness T22 of the tip end of the ridge 64 before it is inserted into the recessed groove 54. Therefore, the tip end of the ridge 64 is press-fitted into the innermost portion of the recessed groove 54 and is clamped by the inner wall of the recessed groove 54. This prevents the ridge 64 from moving relative to the recessed groove 54 (first case 5) and causing vibrations and vibration noise.

[0062] Third Embodiment A third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. The basic configuration of the third embodiment is the same as that of the second embodiment, so differences will be mainly described. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement between the recessed groove 54 and the protruding strip 64 of the blower 1 of the third embodiment.

[0063] The thickness T22 of the tip end of the ridge 64 in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness T21 of the base end. The width T12 of the innermost portion of the recessed groove 54 before the tip end is inserted is greater than the thickness T22 of the tip end of the ridge 64 before it is inserted into the recessed groove 54. However, the width T12 may be smaller than the thickness T22. The width T11 of the recessed groove 54 near the opening is greater than the thickness T21 of the base end of the ridge 64.

[0064] Furthermore, the center position 541 of the recessed groove 54 is offset from the center position 641 of the ridge 64 in the inward / outward direction. Specifically, the center position 641 of the ridge 64 is offset toward the inside of the circulation passage 13 or the exhaust passage 14 with respect to the center position 541 of the recessed groove 54.

[0065] As a result of the misalignment between the center position 541 of the recessed groove 54 and the center position 641 of the ridge 64, the inward-facing surface of the ridge 64 presses against the outward-facing surface of the recessed groove 54, or the outward-facing surface of the ridge 64 presses against the inward-facing surface of the recessed groove 54, making it difficult for the ridge 64 to move relative to the recessed groove 54 (first case 5). This suppresses the generation of vibrations and vibration noise.

[0066] Furthermore, since the center position 641 of the ridge 64 is shifted inward relative to the center position 541 of the recessed groove 54, the influence on the brackets 17, 18 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0067] (Fourth embodiment) A fourth embodiment will be described using Fig. 11. The basic configuration of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the second embodiment, so the following description will focus on the differences. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement between the recessed groove 54 and the protruding strip 64 of the fan 1 of the fourth embodiment.

[0068] The thickness T22 of the tip end of the ridge 64 in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness T21 of the base end. The width T12 of the innermost portion of the recessed groove 54 before the tip end is inserted is greater than the thickness T22 of the tip end of the ridge 64 before it is inserted into the recessed groove 54. However, the width T12 may be smaller than the thickness T22. The width T11 of the recessed groove 54 near the opening is greater than the thickness T21 of the base end of the ridge 64.

[0069] Furthermore, the center position of the ridge 64 is shifted toward the outside of the circulation passage 13 or the exhaust passage 14 with respect to the center position of the recessed groove 54 .

[0070] As a result of the misalignment between the center position 541 of the recessed groove 54 and the center position 641 of the ridge 64, the inward-facing surface of the ridge 64 presses against the outward-facing surface of the recessed groove 54, or the outward-facing surface of the ridge 64 presses against the inward-facing surface of the recessed groove 54, making it difficult for the ridge 64 to move relative to the recessed groove 54 (first case 5). This suppresses the generation of vibrations and vibration noise.

[0071] Furthermore, since the center position 641 of the ridge 64 is shifted outward relative to the center position 541 of the groove 54, the influence on the gas flowing through the circular passage 13 or the exhaust passage 14 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0072] Fifth Embodiment A fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. The basic configuration of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, so differences will be mainly described. Fig. 12 is a partially enlarged side view of the second abutment portion 63 of the blower 1 of the fifth embodiment.

[0073] The ridge 64 has, at multiple locations along the air flow direction, multiple high protrusions 67 that protrude higher than other parts of the ridge 64. The multiple high protrusions 67 increase in height or decrease in height in the air flow direction.

[0074] When attaching the second case 6 to the first case 5, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the hook 221 is fitted into the protrusion 211, and then the hook 222 is fitted into the protrusion 212. The hook 223 is fitted into the protrusion 213, the hook 224 into the protrusion 214, the hook 225 into the protrusion 215, and the hook 226 into the protrusion 216, in that order. At this time, the highest protrusion 67 is formed closest to the hook 221, and the second highest protrusion 67 is formed closest to the hook 222. Subsequently, successively lower protrusions 67 are formed closer to the hooks 223, 224, 225, and 226, respectively. This allows the highest protrusion 67 to be inserted into the groove 54 first. Therefore, the high protrusion 67 to be inserted into the groove 54 is automatically determined without the worker's awareness, and the order in which the hooks 22 and the protrusions 21 are fitted together is also automatically determined, improving ease of assembly.

[0075] Sixth Embodiment A sixth embodiment will be described using Fig. 13. The basic configuration of the sixth embodiment is the same as that of the fifth embodiment, so the description will focus on the differences. Fig. 13 is a partially enlarged side view of the first butt portion 53 and the second butt portion 63 of the blower of the sixth embodiment.

[0076] The high protrusions 67 do not have to be provided in multiple discrete locations. Instead, one or a small number of high protrusions 67 may be provided, with the height of each high protrusion 67 continuously increasing or decreasing. In this case, the depth of the groove 54 of the first case 5 into which the ridge 64 and the high protrusions 67 are inserted continuously changes according to the height of the high protrusions 67.

[0077] As a result, the high convex portions 67 are inserted into the recessed grooves 54 in order from the highest part. Therefore, the part to be inserted into the recessed grooves 54 is automatically determined without the worker having to think about it, and the order in which the hooks 22 and the protrusions 21 are fitted together is also automatically determined. This improves ease of assembly.

[0078] (Aspects) The present specification discloses the following aspects.

[0079] A blower (1) according to a first aspect includes a fan case (2), a motor (3), and a centrifugal fan (4). The fan case (2) has a first case (5) and a second case (6) that fit together. The first case (5) and the second case (6) form a circulation passage (13) and an exhaust passage (14) that extends in one direction. The motor (3) is fixed to the fan case (2) and has a rotating shaft (44) that rotates around an axis (X1) and extends in the axial direction (axial direction A1) along which the axis (X1) extends. The centrifugal fan (4) is housed within the fan case (2) and attached to the rotating shaft (44). Each of the first case (5) and the second case (6) has a circular passage side wall (11) that forms a circular passage (13), and an exhaust passage side wall (12) that is continuous with the circular passage side wall (11) and forms an exhaust passage (14).

[0080] The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) of the first case (5) is referred to as a first abutting portion (53). The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) of the second case (6) is referred to as a second abutting portion (63) that abuts against the first abutting portion (53). The first case (5) and the second case (6) are fitted together in the axial direction (axial direction A1) while facing each other, and the first abutting portion (53) has a recessed groove (54) that protrudes toward the second abutting portion (63) and extends along the air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) extend. The second abutting portion (63) has a protruding rib (64) that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove (54).

[0081] The ridges (64) have, in a portion in the air flow direction, a low-rigidity portion (66) having lower rigidity than the remaining general portion. The low-rigidity portion (66) has a low-protrusion portion (661) having a low protrusion height, and a middle-protrusion portion (662) located in the middle of the low-protrusion portion (661) in the air flow direction and having a protrusion height higher than that of the low-protrusion portion (661).

[0082] In this embodiment, in the portion where the low rigidity portion (66) is provided, the ridges (64) are more likely to deform than the recessed grooves (54), thereby suppressing deformation of the first case (5).

[0083] In the blower (1) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the protrusion (64) has a plurality of low-rigidity portions (66) including a low-rigidity portion (66) in the air flow direction.

[0084] According to this aspect, deformation of the first case (5) is further suppressed.

[0085] A blower (1) according to a third aspect includes a fan case (2), a motor (3), and a centrifugal fan (4). The fan case (2) has a first case (5) and a second case (6) that fit together. The first case (5) and the second case (6) form a circulation passage (13) and an exhaust passage (14) that extends in one direction. The motor (3) is fixed to the fan case (2) and has a rotating shaft (44) that rotates around an axis (X1) and extends in the axial direction (axial direction A1) along which the axis (X1) extends. The centrifugal fan (4) is housed within the fan case (2) and attached to the rotating shaft (44). Each of the first case (5) and the second case (6) has a circular passage side wall (11) that forms a circular passage (13), and an exhaust passage side wall (12) that is continuous with the circular passage side wall (11) and forms an exhaust passage (14).

[0086] The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) of the first case (5) is referred to as a first abutting portion (53). The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) of the second case (6) is referred to as a second abutting portion (63) that abuts against the first abutting portion (53). The first case (5) and the second case (6) are fitted together in the axial direction (axial direction A1) while facing each other, and the first abutting portion (53) has a recessed groove (54) that protrudes toward the second abutting portion (63) and extends along the air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) extend. The second abutting portion (63) has a protruding rib (64) that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove (54).

[0087] The thickness of the tip end of the ridge (64) in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness of the base end. The width of the innermost part of the recessed groove (54) before the tip end is inserted is smaller than the thickness of the tip end.

[0088] According to this aspect, the tip of the ridge (64) is press-fitted into the deepest part of the recessed groove (54) and is clamped by the inner wall of the recessed groove (54), thereby suppressing the ridge (64) from moving relative to the first case (5) and generating vibrations and vibration noise.

[0089] A blower (1) according to a fourth aspect includes a fan case (2), a motor (3), and a centrifugal fan (4). The fan case (2) has a first case (5) and a second case (6) that fit together. The first case (5) and the second case (6) form a circulation passage (13) and an exhaust passage (14) that extends in one direction. The motor (3) is fixed to the fan case (2) and has a rotating shaft (44) that rotates around an axis (X1) and extends in the axial direction (axial direction A1) along which the axis (X1) extends. The centrifugal fan (4) is housed within the fan case (2) and attached to the rotating shaft (44). Each of the first case (5) and the second case (6) has a circular passage side wall (11) that forms a circular passage (13), and an exhaust passage side wall (12) that is continuous with the circular passage side wall (11) and forms an exhaust passage (14).

[0090] The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) of the first case (5) is referred to as a first abutting portion (53). The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) of the second case (6) is referred to as a second abutting portion (63) that abuts against the first abutting portion (53). The first case (5) and the second case (6) are fitted together in the axial direction (axial direction A1) while facing each other, and the first abutting portion (53) has a recessed groove (54) that protrudes toward the second abutting portion (63) and extends along the air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) extend. The second abutting portion (63) has a protruding rib (64) that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove (54).

[0091] The thickness of the tip end of the ridge (64) in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness of the base end. In the inward / outward direction intersecting the protruding direction and the air flow direction, the center position (541) of the groove (54) and the center position (641) of the ridge (64) are misaligned.

[0092] According to this embodiment, the inward-facing surface of the ridge (64) presses against the outward-facing surface of the recessed groove (54), or the outward-facing surface of the ridge (64) presses against the inward-facing surface of the recessed groove (54). This makes it difficult for the ridge (64) to move relative to the first case (5), thereby suppressing the generation of vibrations and vibration noise.

[0093] In the blower (1) according to the fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the center position of the ridge (64) is shifted inwardly or outwardly from the center position of the groove (54) toward the inside of the circulation passage (13) or the exhaust passage (14).

[0094] According to this aspect, the influence on (17, 18) can be suppressed more effectively.

[0095] In the blower (1) according to the sixth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the center position of the ridge (64) is shifted in the inward / outward direction toward the outside of the circulating passage (13) or the exhaust passage (14) relative to the center position of the recessed groove (54).

[0096] According to this aspect, the influence on the gas flowing through the circulation passage (13) or the exhaust passage (14) can be more effectively suppressed.

[0097] In a blower (1) according to a seventh aspect, in any of the third to sixth aspects, the groove (54) has, in a part of the air flow direction, a low-rigidity part (66) having lower rigidity than the general part other than the part. The low-rigidity part (66) has a low-protrusion part (661) having a low protrusion height, and a middle-protrusion part (662) located in the middle of the low-protrusion part (661) in the air flow direction and having a protrusion height higher than the low-protrusion part (661).

[0098] In this embodiment, in the portion where the low rigidity portion (66) is provided, the ridges (64) are more likely to deform than the recessed grooves (54), thereby suppressing deformation of the first case (5).

[0099] A blower (1) according to an eighth aspect includes a fan case (2), a motor (3), and a centrifugal fan (4). The fan case (2) has a first case (5) and a second case (6) that fit together. The first case (5) and the second case (6) form a circulation passage (13) and an exhaust passage (14) that extends in one direction. The motor (3) is fixed to the fan case (2) and has a rotating shaft (44) that rotates around an axis (X1) and extends in the axial direction (axial direction A1) along which the axis (X1) extends. The centrifugal fan (4) is housed within the fan case (2) and attached to the rotating shaft (44). Each of the first case (5) and the second case (6) has a circular passage side wall (11) that forms a circular passage (13), and an exhaust passage side wall (12) that is continuous with the circular passage side wall (11) and forms an exhaust passage (14).

[0100] The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) of the first case (5) is referred to as a first abutting portion (53). The abutting portion between the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) of the second case (6) is referred to as a second abutting portion (63) that abuts against the first abutting portion (53). The first case (5) and the second case (6) are fitted together in the axial direction (axial direction A1) while facing each other, and the first abutting portion (53) has a recessed groove (54) that protrudes toward the second abutting portion (63) and extends along the air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall (11) and the exhaust passage side wall (12) extend. The second abutting portion (63) has a protruding rib (64) that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove (54).

[0101] The ridges (64) have a plurality of high protrusions at a plurality of locations in the air flow direction, each having a protrusion height higher than other portions of the ridge. The plurality of high protrusions increases in height or decreases in height in the air flow direction.

[0102] According to this embodiment, the order in which the high convex portions (67) are inserted into the concave grooves (54) is determined naturally without the worker having to be conscious of it, improving the ease of assembly.

[0103] The blower and moving body according to the present disclosure can be widely used in electrical equipment, vehicles, and the like.

[0104] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 blower 11 circulating passage side wall 12 exhaust passage side wall 13 circulating passage 14 exhaust passage 2 fan case 3 motor 4 centrifugal fan 44 rotating shaft 5 first case 53 first butting portion 54 recessed groove 6 second case 63 second butting portion 64 ridge A1 axial direction X1 axial center

Claims

1. A fan case having a first case and a second case fitted together, the first case and the second case forming a circulating passage and an exhaust passage extending in one direction; a motor fixed to the fan case and having a rotating shaft which rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction along which the axis extends; and a centrifugal fan housed within the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft, wherein each of the first case and the second case has a circulating passage side wall which forms the circulating passage, and an exhaust passage side wall which is continuous with the circulating passage side wall and forms the exhaust passage, the abutment portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the first case is a first abutment portion, and the abutment portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the second case is a second abutment portion which abuts against the first abutment portion, a first case and a second case that face each other and are fitted together in the axial direction, the first butting portion having a recessed groove that protrudes toward the second butting portion and extends along an air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall extend, the second butting portion having a protruding rib that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the recessed groove, the protruding rib having a low rigidity portion in a portion of the air flow direction that is lower in rigidity than a general portion other than the portion, and the low rigidity portion having a low protruding portion with a low protruding height, and a middle protruding portion that is located in an intermediate portion of the low protruding portion in the air flow direction and has a protruding height higher than that of the low protruding portion.

2. The blower according to claim 1, wherein the protrusion has a plurality of low-rigidity portions, including the low-rigidity portion, in the air flow direction.

3. A fan case having a first case and a second case fitted together, the first case and the second case forming a circulating passage and an exhaust passage extending in one direction; a motor fixed to the fan case and having a rotating shaft which rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction along which the axis extends; and a centrifugal fan housed in the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft, wherein each of the first case and the second case has a circulating passage side wall which forms the circulating passage, and an exhaust passage side wall which is continuous with the circulating passage side wall and forms the exhaust passage, the abutment portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the first case is a first abutment portion, and the abutment portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the second case is a second abutment portion which abuts against the first abutment portion, the first case and the second case are fitted together in the axial direction, facing each other; the first butting portion has a groove that protrudes toward the second butting portion and extends along an air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall extend; the second butting portion has a ridge that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the ridge groove; the thickness of a tip end of the ridge in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness of a base end; and the width of a deep portion of the ridge groove before the tip end is inserted is smaller than the thickness of the tip end before it is inserted into the ridge groove.

4. A fan case having a first case and a second case fitted together, the first case and the second case forming a circulating passage and an exhaust passage extending in one direction; a motor fixed to the fan case and having a rotating shaft which rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction along which the axis extends; and a centrifugal fan housed in the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft, wherein each of the first case and the second case has a circulating passage side wall which forms the circulating passage, and an exhaust passage side wall which is continuous with the circulating passage side wall and forms the exhaust passage, the abutment portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the first case is a first abutment portion, and the abutment portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the second case is a second abutment portion which abuts against the first abutment portion, a first case and a second case that are fitted together in the axial direction and face each other; the first butting portion has a groove that protrudes toward the second butting portion and extends along an air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall extend; the second butting portion has a ridge that extends along the air flow direction and is inserted into the ridge; the thickness of a tip end of the ridge in the protruding direction is thinner than the thickness of a base end; and a center position of the groove and a center position of the ridge are misaligned in an inward / outward direction that intersects the protruding direction and the air flow direction.

5. The blower according to claim 4, wherein the center position of the ridge is shifted toward the inner side of the circulation passage or the exhaust passage in the inward / outward direction relative to the center position of the recessed groove.

6. The blower according to claim 4, wherein the center position of the ridge is shifted toward the outside of the circulation passage or the exhaust passage in the inward / outward direction relative to the center position of the recessed groove.

7. A blower according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the convex ribs have a low-rigidity section in a portion of the air flow direction that is lower in rigidity than the general portion other than the portion, and the low-rigidity section has a low-rigidity section with a low protruding height and an intermediate-rigidity section located in the middle of the low-rigidity section in the air flow direction and having a higher protruding height than the low-rigidity section.

8. A fan case having a first case and a second case fitted together, the first case and the second case forming a circulating passage and an exhaust passage extending in one direction; a motor fixed to the fan case and having a rotating shaft which rotates around an axis and extends in the axial direction along which the axis extends; and a centrifugal fan housed in the fan case and attached to the rotating shaft, wherein each of the first case and the second case has a circulating passage side wall which forms the circulating passage, and an exhaust passage side wall which is continuous with the circulating passage side wall and forms the exhaust passage, the abutment portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the first case is a first abutment portion, and the abutment portion between the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall of the second case is a second abutment portion which abuts against the first abutment portion, a blower in which the first case and the second case are fitted together in the axial direction, the first butting portion protruding toward the second butting portion has a groove extending along an air flow direction in which the circulating passage side wall and the exhaust passage side wall extend, the second butting portion has a ridge extending along the air flow direction and inserted into the groove, the ridge having a plurality of high ridges at a plurality of locations in the air flow direction that have a higher protrusion height than other portions of the ridge, and the plurality of high ridges sequentially increase in height or decrease in height along the air flow direction.

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