Humidifier and humidifying air purifier having same

Abstract

A humidifier is provided. The humidifier comprises: a housing; a water tank which accommodates water inside the housing, and in which steam is generated; and a cover separably coupled to the top of the water tank. The cover includes: a button; a first mode in which the button is pressed to release the locking of the cover so that the cover rotates in the left-right direction; a second mode in which, after the button is pressed to release the locking of the cover, the cover rotates in a first direction, thereby enabling water to be supplied into the water tank with the cover coupled to the water tank; and a third mode in which, after the button is pressed to release the locking of the cover, the cover is rotated in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction, thereby separating the cover from the water tank.

Description

Humidifier and humidifying air purifier including the same

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a humidifier with an improved locking structure and a humidifying air purifier including the same.

[0002] Generally, a humidifier refers to a device that maintains the humidity of an indoor space at an appropriate level. A humidifier can vaporize water contained in a tank and discharge it into the indoor space.

[0003] Humidifiers can be broadly classified into evaporative, ultrasonic, and heating types based on the humidification method of vaporizing water. Among these, in the case of the heating humidification method, steam can be generated by a steam generating unit heating and vaporizing water contained in a water reservoir.

[0004] An air purifier is a device used to remove pollutants from the air. It can remove bacteria, viruses, mold, fine dust, and odor-causing chemicals present in the inhaled air.

[0005] An air purifier may be equipped with a filter to purify contaminated indoor air. Air drawn into the air purifier passes through the filter, where pollutants are removed to purify it into clean air, and the purified air can be discharged to the outside of the air purifier.

[0006] In this way, humidifiers and air purifiers are used to manage indoor air. Recently, humidifying air purifiers, which combine both humidification and air purification into a single device, are being used.

[0007] The above information is presented for the sake of background information only to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No judgment or claim is made as to whether the above information can be applied as prior art in relation to the present disclosure.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure is to solve at least the problems and / or disadvantages mentioned above and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a humidifier having an improved locking structure and a humidifying air purifier including the same.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a humidifier with an improved locking structure so that the cover lock is released in a double manner over a first and second stage, and a humidifying air purifier including the same.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a humidifier capable of supplying water into a water tank without separating the cover from the water tank, and a humidifying air purifier including the same.

[0011] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a humidifier and a humidifying air purifier including the same, wherein the cover can be separated from the water tank after the lock is first released by pressing a button on the cover and the lock is secondarily released by rotating the cover.

[0012] Additional aspects may be described in part of the following description, become apparent from the description, or become known through the implementation of the presented embodiments.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a humidifier is provided. The humidifier comprises a housing, a water tank arranged to contain water within the housing and generating steam within it, and a cover detachably coupled to the upper portion of the water tank. The cover comprises a button, a first mode for unlocking the cover by pressing the button to rotate the cover in a left-right direction, a second mode for unlocking the cover by pressing the button and then rotating the cover in a first direction to supply water into the water tank while the cover is coupled to the water tank, and a third mode for unlocking the cover by pressing the button and then rotating the cover in a second direction opposite to the first direction to separate the cover from the water tank.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a humidifying air purifier is provided. The humidifying air purifier includes a cabinet that accommodates a humidifier inside, and an air purifier that is accommodated inside the cabinet and positioned below the humidifier. The humidifier includes a water tank provided to accommodate water inside, and a cover that is detachably coupled to the upper portion of the water tank. The cover includes a button, an upper cover that is rotatably provided on the upper portion of the water tank and includes a cover opening for supplying water into the water tank, and a lower cover that is provided on the lower portion of the upper cover and includes a supply channel for supplying water supplied through the cover opening into the water tank. After pressing the button, if the upper cover rotates in a first direction, water is supplied into the water tank through the cover opening while the cover is coupled to the water tank, and after pressing the button, if the upper cover rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the cover is separated from the water tank.

[0015] Other aspects, advantages, and key features of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which discloses various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humidifying air purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a disassembled view of a part of a humidifying air purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a tank and a cover separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a water tank and a cap according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a disassembled view of a portion of an upper cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a disassembled drawing showing the outer cover and inner cover of an upper cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a lever being assembled to an inner cover of an upper cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a disassembled drawing showing the first lower cover and the second lower cover of a lower cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a part of an upper body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a humidifier having a cover attached to the upper part of a water tank according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating steam generated inside a water tank of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure being discharged to the outside.

[0029] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which the button of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is not pressed.

[0030] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a protruding projection according to one embodiment of the present disclosure positioned on the first rail of a guide rail.

[0031] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the button of a humidifier in a pressed state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a button of a humidifier in a pressed state according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating the cover rotated in a first direction while the button of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is pressed.

[0034] FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating the appearance in which, when a cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is rotated in a first direction, the guide rail is guided by the protruding projection and the protruding projection is positioned on the second rail.

[0035] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating water flowing into the cover opening and being supplied into the water tank when the upper cover is moved upward by rotating the cover in a first direction while the button according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is pressed.

[0036] FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a cover rotated in a second direction while a button is pressed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating the appearance in which, when a cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is rotated in a second direction, the guide rail is guided by the protruding projection and the protruding projection is positioned on the third rail.

[0038] FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating the appearance in which, after a cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is rotated in a second direction, the cover is lifted upward, and the guide rail is guided by the protruding projection so that the protruding projection is positioned on the fourth rail.

[0039] FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing a cover separated from a water tank according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] It should be noted that identical or similar elements, features, and structures are assigned the same reference number throughout the drawings.

[0041] The description provided below with reference to the attached drawings is intended to enable a full understanding of the various embodiments of the present disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. Various specific details are included to aid in this understanding, but they are merely illustrative. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications are possible to the various embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, descriptions of known functions or configurations may be omitted for the sake of clarity and brevity.

[0042] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their dictionary meanings but are used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the content of the invention. Accordingly, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the present disclosure is merely for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0043] Additionally, the same reference numerals or symbols presented in each drawing of the present disclosure represent parts or components that perform substantially the same function.

[0044] Furthermore, the terms used in this disclosure are for describing embodiments and are not intended to limit or restrict the disclosure. In this disclosure, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to indicate the presence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the disclosure, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0045] Additionally, in the present disclosure, each of the phrases such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0046] Additionally, the term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0047] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., used in this disclosure may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms, and said terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component. The term "and / or" includes a combination of a plurality of related described items or any of a plurality of related described items.

[0048] Furthermore, in this disclosure, the meaning of "identical" includes items that are similar in attributes or similar within a certain range. Additionally, "identical" means "substantially identical." The meaning of "substantially identical" should be understood as including within the scope of "identical" numerical values ​​that fall within the margin of error in manufacturing or differences that do not hold significance relative to a reference value.

[0049] In addition, terms such as "~part," "~unit," "~block," "~part," and "~module" may refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the above terms may refer to at least one piece of hardware such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) or ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0050] Meanwhile, terms such as "front," "rear," "left," and "right" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0051] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0052] It should be understood that the blocks of each flowchart and combinations of flowcharts can be executed by one or more computer programs containing instructions. The entirety of one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device, or may be divided into different parts and distributed across multiple different memory devices.

[0053] The functions or operations described in this specification may be processed by a single processor or a combination of processors. Such a single processor or a combination of processors is a circuit that performs operations and includes circuits such as an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural network processing unit (NPU, e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless LAN (Wi-Fi™) chip, a Bluetooth™ chip, a Global Positioning System (GPS) chip, a Near Field Communication (NFC) chip, a connectivity chip, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a fingerprint recognition sensor controller, a display driver integrated circuit (IC), an audio codec chip, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system-on-chip (SoC), an integrated circuit (IC), etc.

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humidifying air purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a disassembled view of a part of a humidifying air purifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the humidifying air purifier may include a humidifier (2) and an air purifier (3).

[0056] A humidifying air purifier can inhale outside air, filter out foreign substances contained in the outside air, and then discharge the air back out. Meanwhile, although an air purifier (3), which is a type of air conditioner, has been described below as an example, the present disclosure is not limited to an air purifier (3) and can be applied to other air conditioners for collecting foreign substances in the air.

[0057] The air purifier (3) may include an electrostatic precipitator (not shown). The electrostatic precipitator is a device for removing aerosols in the air generated by activities such as smoking, cooking, cleaning, welding, grinding, and operating an internal combustion engine within a certain space. The electrostatic precipitator may be installed inside a device capable of performing an air filtering function, such as an air conditioner. The air purifier (3) may include various filter devices (not shown) in addition to the electrostatic precipitator.

[0058] The air purifier (3) may include a blower fan (not shown). External air may be drawn into the air purifier by the blower fan. The blower fan may be provided to form an air flow inside the air purifier.

[0059] The air purifier (3) may be placed below the humidifier (2). The humidifying air purifier may include a cabinet (1) that accommodates the humidifier (2) and the air purifier (3). Inside the cabinet (1), the humidifier (2) and the air purifier (3) may be arranged to be connected.

[0060] The humidifier (2) may include a housing (10) disposed inside a cabinet. The housing (10) may be provided to accommodate a water tank (100). The humidifier (2) may include a cover (200) for opening and closing the water tank (100). (See FIG. 3)

[0061] The humidifier (2) may include a cap (20) that covers the top of the humidifier (2). By covering the top of the humidifier (2) with the cap (20), various components included in the humidifier (2) may be prevented from being exposed to the outside.

[0062] The humidifier (2) may include a display (11) indicating the state of the humidifier (2). In the drawing, the display (11) is shown as being formed at the front (+X direction) of the top of the housing (10), but is not limited thereto, and the position where the display (11) is placed may not be limited.

[0063] The air filtered in the air purifier (3) can be discharged through an outlet (not shown) provided in the air purifier (3) or discharged to the outside through an outlet provided in the humidifier (2).

[0064] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the water tank and cover separated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the humidifier (2) may include a housing (10), a water tank (100) housed inside the housing (10), and a cover (200) coupled to the upper part of the water tank (100) to open and close the water tank (100).

[0066] The humidifier (2) may include a water tank (100). The water tank (100) may have a cylindrical shape. The water tank (100) may be provided so that its top can be opened and closed. The top of the water tank (100) may be opened and closed by a cover (200). Water may be contained inside the water tank (100). A detailed description of the water tank (100) will be provided later.

[0067] The humidifier (2) may include a cover (200). The cover (200) may be provided to open and close the water tank (100). The cover (200) may be detachably coupled to the upper part of the water tank (100). The cover (200) may include a handle (310) that a user can grasp. The cover (200) may include a button (320) provided on the handle (310). The user may operate the cover (200) by pressing the button (320) while grasping the handle (310). The user may rotate the cover (200) by pressing the button (320) while grasping the handle (310). The cover (200) may include a cover opening (350). The user may supply water into the water tank (100) through the cover opening (350) while the cover (200) is coupled to the water tank (100). A detailed description of the cover (200) will be provided later.

[0068] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a water tank and a cap according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a part of an upper cover exploded according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an outer cover and an inner cover of an upper cover exploded according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a lever being assembled to the inner cover of an upper cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a first lower cover and a second lower cover of a lower cover exploded according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a part of an upper body according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 10, the water tank (100) may be provided to have a cylindrical shape with an open top. The open top of the water tank (100) may be opened and closed by a cover (200). Water may be contained inside the water tank (100).

[0070] The water tank (100) may include a tank (110) in which water is contained. The water tank (100) may include a lower body (120) that surrounds the outer surface of the tank (110). The water tank (100) may include an upper body (130) that is coupled to the upper part of the lower body (120). The water tank (100) may include a silicone body (140) that is mounted on the upper body (130).

[0071] The tank (110) may be provided to have a cylindrical shape with an open top. Water may be stored inside the tank (110). A partition member (150) may be placed inside the tank (110). The partition member (150) may partition the internal space of the tank (110). Although not shown in the drawing, the partition member (150) may partition the internal space of the tank (110) into a steam generation area and a storage area. Water stored in the storage area may flow into the steam generation area, and steam may be generated in the steam generation area by a coil (not shown). The steam generation area may be provided inside the storage area.

[0072] The lower body (120) may be provided to surround the outer surface of the tank (110). The lower body (120) may be provided to have a cylindrical shape with an open top.

[0073] The upper body (130) can be coupled to the upper part of the lower body (120). The upper body (130) can be arranged to have a ring shape. An upper cover (300) can be rotatably coupled to the upper part of the upper body (130). A silicone body (140) can be mounted on the upper body (130). The silicone body (140) mounted on the upper body (130) can seal the space between the cover (200) and the tank (100).

[0074] The upper body (130) may include a discharge port (131). The discharge port (131) can discharge steam, which is discharged through a plurality of first discharge holes (519) formed in the lower cover (500) of the cover (200) to be described later, to a plurality of second discharge holes (360) formed in the upper cover (300). Steam generated inside the water tank (100) can be discharged to the outside through a plurality of first discharge holes (519), the discharge port (131), and a plurality of second discharge holes (360). A detailed explanation thereof will be provided later.

[0075] The upper body (130) may include a locking groove (133). Multiple locking grooves (133) may be formed on the upper edge of the upper body (130). Although the drawing shows four locking grooves (133) formed, it is not limited thereto. A locking projection (337) of a lever (330), which will be described later, may be engaged and disengaged in the locking groove (133). When a button (320) assembled to the handle (310) of the upper cover (300) is pressed, the lever (330) rotates and the locking projection (337) may be engaged and disengaged in the locking groove (133) of the upper body (130). When the locking projection (337) of the lever (330) is engaged in the locking groove (133) of the upper body (130), the upper cover (300) is locked and rotation is prevented. When the locking projection (337) of the lever (330) is released from the locking groove (133) of the upper body (130), the upper cover (300) can be unlocked and rotated. A detailed explanation of this will be provided later.

[0076] The upper body (130) may include a protruding projection (135). The protruding projection (135) may be formed to protrude from the inner circumference of the upper body (130). The protruding projection (135) may be formed to protrude from the inner circumference of the part adjacent to the upper edge of the upper body (130). The protruding projection (135) may be formed in multiple numbers. Although the drawing shows four protruding projections (135) formed, it is not limited thereto. The protruding projection (135) may be arranged to move along the guide rail (380) of the upper cover (300). In detail, since the upper body (130) with the protruding projection (135) formed thereon is fixed and the upper cover (300) with the guide rail (380) formed thereon rotates, the guide rail (380) can be guided by the protruding projection (135). A detailed explanation of this will be provided later.

[0077] The cover (200) may be provided to open and close the open top of the water tank (100). The cover (200) may be detachably connected to the top of the water tank (100).

[0078] The cover (200) may include an upper cover (300). The cover (200) may include a water distribution unit (400) positioned below the upper cover (300). The cover (200) may include a lower cover (500) positioned below the upper cover (300). The lower cover (500) may be provided below the water distribution unit (400). The water tank (200) may include a valve (210) mounted below the lower cover (500).

[0079] The valve (210) can be mounted on the upper part of the partition member (150). That is, the valve (210) can be positioned between the partition member (150) and the lower cover (500). The valve (210) can connect the discharge hole (527) of the lower cover (500), which will be described later, with the steam generation area of ​​the water tank (100). Through this configuration, steam generated in the steam generation area can pass through the inside of the valve (210) and flow into the outer space of the water tank (100). The valve (210) can be provided to prevent leakage when the humidifier (2, see FIG. 2) is tilted.

[0080] The cover (200) may include an upper cover (300). The upper cover (300) may be rotatably coupled to the upper part of the water tank (100). The upper cover (300) may include an outer cover (301) and an inner cover (303). The outer cover (301) may be provided to be exposed to the outside. The inner cover (303) may be located on the inner side of the outer cover (301) and may not be exposed to the outside.

[0081] The upper cover (300) may include a handle (310). The handle (310) may be provided so that a user can grasp it. The user may operate the cover (200) by grasping the handle (310). A portion of the handle (310) may be provided on the outer cover (301) of the upper cover (300), and the remaining portion may be provided on the inner cover (303). Specifically, the upper portion of the handle (310) may be provided on the outer cover (301), and the lower portion of the handle (310) may be provided on the inner cover (303).

[0082] The handle (310) may include a rotation hole (311) into which a button (320) is rotatably assembled. The rotation hole (311) may be provided in the outer cover (301).

[0083] The handle (310) may include a rotation groove (313) into which the lever (330) is rotatably assembled. The rotation groove (313) may be provided in the inner cover (303).

[0084] The handle (310) may include an opening (315) through which a portion of a button (320), which is rotatably assembled in a rotation hole (311), is exposed to the outside. The user can press the button (320) through the opening (315).

[0085] The upper cover (300) may include a button (320). The button (320) may be rotatably assembled to the handle (310). The button (320) may be rotatably assembled to the handle (310) and move in an up-and-down direction. Although the drawing shows the button (320) being rotatably assembled to the handle (310) and moving in an up-and-down direction, it is not limited thereto. For example, the button (320) may be provided to be movable in an up-and-down direction without rotating on the handle (310). That is, as long as the button (320) is configured to rotate the lever (330), there may be no limitation on the configuration of the button (320). The button (320) may include a button shaft (321) that is rotatably assembled to the rotation hole (311) of the handle (310). A portion of the button (320) may be exposed to the outside through the opening (315) of the handle (310). The user can press the button (320) through the opening (315). The user can operate the cover (200) by pressing the button (320). When the user presses the button (320) while gripping the handle (310), the button (320) can rotate around the button axis (321). The button (320) can rotate around the button axis (321) to rotate the lever (330) in contact with the button (320).

[0086] The upper cover (300) may include a lever (330). The lever (330) may be rotatably assembled to the handle (310). The lever (330) may be provided such that one side contacts the button (320). The lever (330) may be provided such that when one side contacts the button (320) and the button (320) is pressed and rotated, the lever (330) is rotated by the button (320).

[0087] Although the drawing shows the lever (330) being rotatably assembled to the handle (310), it is not limited thereto. For example, there may be no limitation on the configuration of the lever (330) as long as the lever (330) is configured to move so that the locking projection (337), which will be described later, can be engaged and disengaged from the locking groove (133) of the upper body (130) by the button (320).

[0088] Additionally, although the drawing shows the lever (330) being provided separately from the button (320) and in contact with the button (320), it is not limited thereto. For example, the button (320) and the lever (330) may be provided as a single unit. If the button (320) and the lever (330) are formed as a single unit, the button (320) performs the function of the lever (330), so that when the button (320) is pressed, the lock of the upper cover (300) can be released so that the upper cover (300) can rotate.

[0089] The lever (330) may include a lever shaft (331) that is rotatably assembled to the handle (310). The lever shaft (331) of the lever (330) may be rotatably assembled to the rotation groove (313) of the handle (310). When the button (320) is pressed, the lever (330) may rotate around the lever shaft (331) by the button (320).

[0090] The lever (330) may include a first part (333) that contacts the button (320). The first part (333) may be provided on one side with respect to the lever axis (331). When the button (320) is pressed, the first part (333) that contacts the button (320) may also be pressed by the button (320). When the first part (333) is pressed by the button (320), the lever (330) may rotate around the lever axis (331).

[0091] The lever (330) may include a second part (335) formed on the opposite side of the first part (333) with respect to the lever axis (331). The second part (335) may be provided on the other side with respect to the lever axis (331).

[0092] The lever (330) may include a locking projection (337) formed at the end of the second part (335). The locking projection (337) may be engaged with and released from the locking groove (133) of the upper body (130). When the locking projection (337) is engaged with the locking groove (133) of the upper body (130), the cover (200) may be locked to the water tank (100). When the locking projection (337) is released from the locking groove (133) of the upper body (130), the cover (200) may be unlocked from the water tank (100). That is, when the cover (200) described later is in the first mode, the locking projection (337) can unlock the cover (200). When the cover (200) is unlocked from the tank (100), the cover (200) can be rotated.

[0093] The upper cover (300) may include a spring (340). The spring (340) may be coupled to the lever (330). The spring (340) may accumulate elastic force when the button (320) is pressed and the lever (330) rotates. The spring (340) may cause the lever (330) to rotate to its original position with the accumulated elastic force when the pressure applied to the button (320) is released. That is, the lever (330) may rotate to the position before the button (320) was pressed by the spring (340).

[0094] The upper cover (300) may include a cover opening (350). The cover opening (350) may be formed in the central part of the upper cover (300). The cover opening (350) can supply water into the water tank (100) while the cover (200) is attached to the water tank (100). That is, the user can supply water into the water tank (100) by pouring water through the cover opening (350) while the cover (200) is attached to the water tank (100).

[0095] The upper cover (300) may include a plurality of second discharge holes (360). The plurality of second discharge holes (360) can discharge steam discharged through a plurality of first discharge holes (519) formed in the lower cover (500) to the outside of the cover (200). Steam discharged through a plurality of first discharge holes (519) formed in the lower cover (500) can be discharged to a plurality of second discharge holes (360) through a discharge port (131) formed in the upper body (130) of the water tank (100). Steam discharged through the discharge port (131) can be discharged to the outside of the cover (200) through a plurality of second discharge holes (360) and a discharge path (370).

[0096] The upper cover (300) may include a discharge channel (370). The discharge channel (370) may be provided to communicate with a plurality of second discharge holes (360). Steam discharged through the discharge port (131) to the plurality of second discharge holes (360) may flow into the discharge channel (370) and be discharged outside the cover (200).

[0097] The upper cover (300) may include guide rails (380). Guide rails (380) may be formed on the inner cover (303). Guide rails (380) may be formed in multiple numbers on the outer wall surface of the inner cover (303). Guide rails (380) may be guided by protrusions (135) formed on the upper body (130) when the upper cover (300) rotates. Guide rails (380) may be formed in four numbers corresponding to the number of protrusions (135). However, the number of guide rails (380) is not limited to four, just like the protrusions (135).

[0098] The guide rail (380) may include a first rail (381) where the protruding projection (135) of the upper body (130) is located when the cover (200) is locked to the tank (200). Even when the cover (200) is unlocked to the tank (200), the protruding projection (135) of the upper body (130) may be located on the first rail (381). As will be described later, when the cover (200) is unlocked to the tank (200), the cover (200) may be in the first mode. That is, the first rail (381) may be the part where the protruding projection (135) of the upper body (130) is located when the cover (200) is not rotated.

[0099] The guide rail (380) may include a second rail (383) that extends downward at an angle from one side of the first rail (381). In the drawing, one side of the first rail (381) may be the right end of the first rail (381). When the cover (200) rotates in a first direction while unlocked from the water tank (100), the second rail (383) may be guided by the protruding projection (135). The first direction may be clockwise. Since the second rail (383) extends downward at an angle, when the cover (200) rotates in the first direction, the upper cover (300) on which the guide rail (380) is formed may move upward. As will be described later, the state in which the cover (200) is rotated in the first direction after the cover (200) is unlocked from the water tank (200) may be in the second mode. When the cover (200) is in the second mode, water can be supplied into the water tank (100) while the cover (200) is connected to the water tank (100). That is, when the cover (200) is in the second mode, water can be supplied into the water tank (100) by pouring water into the cover opening (350) while the cover (200) is connected to the water tank (100).

[0100] The guide rail (380) may include a third rail (385) extending parallel to the other side of the first rail (381). In the drawing, the other side of the first rail (381) may be the left end of the first rail (381). When the cover (200) rotates in a second direction while unlocked from the tank (100), the third rail (385) may be guided by the protruding projection (135). The second direction may be the opposite direction of the first direction. The second direction may be counterclockwise. Because the third rail (385) extends parallel, when the cover (200) rotates in the second direction, the upper cover (300) on which the guide rail (380) is formed can only rotate without moving in the up and down direction. As will be described later, after the cover (200) is unlocked from the tank (200), the state in which the cover (200) is rotated in a second direction may be in the third mode. When the cover (200) is in the third mode, the cover (200) may be in a state where it can be lifted upward so as to be separated from the tank (100).

[0101] The guide rail (380) may include a fourth rail (387) that extends vertically downward from the third rail (385). In the drawing, the fourth rail (387) may extend vertically downward from the left end of the third rail (385). When the cover (200) is in a state where it can be lifted upward, that is, when the cover (200) is located at the left end of the third rail (385), the fourth rail (387) can be guided by the protruding projection (135). When the fourth rail (387) is guided by the protruding projection (135), the cover (200) can be separated from the water tank (100).

[0102] The cover (200) may include a water distribution section (400) positioned at the bottom of the upper cover (300). The water distribution section (400) may be provided in the shape of a disc, with the highest height at the center and the lowest height at the edge. That is, the water distribution section (400) may be provided to be inclined downward from the center toward the edge. In other words, the water distribution section (400) may be provided in a shape where the center is convex toward the top. (See FIG. 16)

[0103] The water distribution unit (400) can be positioned at the bottom of the cover opening (350). Since the water distribution unit (400) is positioned at the bottom of the cover opening (350), when water flows in through the cover opening (350), the water can be guided along the upper surface of the water distribution unit (400) in the radial direction of the water distribution unit (400). The water distributed radially by the water distribution unit (400) can be spread evenly and delivered to the lower cover (500). (See FIG. 16)

[0104] The cover (200) may include a lower cover (500). The lower cover (500) may be placed below the upper cover (300). The lower cover (500) may be placed below the water distribution section (400). The lower cover (500) may include a first lower cover (510). The lower cover (500) may include a second lower cover (520). The lower cover (500) may include a sealing member (530). The lower cover (500) may include supply channels (511, 521) that supply water supplied through the cover opening (350) into the water tank (100).

[0105] The lower cover (500) may include a first lower cover (510). The first lower cover (510) may be positioned at the bottom of the upper cover (300). The first lower cover (510) may be provided to be movable in the vertical direction.

[0106] The first lower cover (510) may include a first supply channel (511) that forms part of the supply channel (511, 521). The first supply channel (511) may include a first supply hole (513) that supplies water supplied through the cover opening (350) of the upper cover (300) into the water tank (100). The first supply hole (513) may be formed in multiple numbers.

[0107] The first supply channel (511) may include a first water supply section (515) that supplies water supplied through the cover opening (350) of the upper cover (300) into the water tank (100). The first water supply section (515) may be provided to extend downward from the first supply hole (513). The first water supply section (515) may be formed in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of first supply holes (513). The first water supply section (515) may form a space within which water supplied through the first supply hole (513) flows. Water supplied through the first supply hole (513) via the cover opening (350) of the upper cover (300) may flow through the first water supply section (515).

[0108] The first supply channel (511) may include a second supply hole (517) that supplies water supplied through the cover opening (350) of the upper cover (300) into the water tank (100). The second supply hole (517) may be formed to be open at the bottom of the first water supply section (515). The second supply hole (517) may be formed in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of the first supply holes (513). Water supplied to the first supply hole (513) through the cover opening (350) of the upper cover (300) may flow through the first water supply section (515) and be supplied to the second supply channel (521), which will be described later, through the second supply hole (517).

[0109] The first lower cover (510) may include a plurality of first discharge holes (519) for discharging steam flowing through the discharge path (501), which will be described later, to the outside of the first lower cover (510). Steam generated inside the water tank (100) is discharged through the discharge hole (527) of the second lower cover (520), which will be described later, and the steam discharged through the discharge hole (527) may flow through the discharge path (501) and be discharged to the outside of the first lower cover (510). (See FIG. 12)

[0110] The lower cover (500) may include a second lower cover (520). The second lower cover (520) may be placed below the first lower cover (510). The second lower cover (520) may be coupled to the upper part of the water tank (100).

[0111] The second lower cover (520) may include a second supply channel (521) that forms a supply channel (511, 521) together with the first supply channel (511). The second supply channel (521) may include a second water supply section (523) in which the first water supply section (515) of the first lower cover (510) is accommodated. When the first lower cover (510) moves upward, the first water supply section (515) can move upward while being accommodated inside the second water supply section (523). The second water supply section (523) may be formed in multiple numbers corresponding to the number of the first water supply sections (515).

[0112] The second supply channel (521) may include a third supply hole (525) formed in the lower side wall of the second water supply section (523). Multiple third supply holes (525) may be formed in the lower side wall of the second water supply section (523). The third supply hole (525) may be closed by the first water supply section (515) housed inside the second water supply section (523) before the first lower cover (510) moves upward. That is, the third supply hole (525) may be closed by the first water supply section (515) housed inside the second water supply section (523) after the cover (200) is unlocked from the water tank (100) and before the upper cover (300) rotates in the first direction.

[0113] The third supply hole (525) can be opened when the first lower cover (510) moves upward, because the first water supply unit (515) that was closing the third supply hole (525) moves upward. That is, the third supply hole (525) can be opened when the upper cover (300) rotates in the first direction after the cover (200) is unlocked from the water tank (100). When the upper cover (300) rotates in the first direction after the cover (200) is unlocked from the water tank (100), the third supply hole (525) is opened and can communicate with the second supply hole (517).

[0114] After the cover (200) is unlocked from the water tank (100), when the upper cover (300) rotates in a first direction and moves upward, the water supplied to the first supply hole (513) through the cover opening (350) of the upper cover (300) can flow through the first water supply section (515) and be supplied to the third supply hole (525) through the second supply hole (517). The water supplied to the third supply hole (525) can be supplied into the water tank (100).

[0115] The second lower cover (520) may include a discharge hole (527) for discharging steam generated inside the water tank (100). A discharge path (501) may be formed between the first lower cover (510) and the second lower cover (520). Steam discharged to the outside of the water tank (100) through the discharge hole (527) may flow along the discharge path (501). Steam flowing along the discharge path (501) may be discharged to the outside of the first lower cover (510) through a plurality of first discharge holes (519) of the first lower cover (510). (See FIG. 12)

[0116] The lower cover (500) may include a sealing member (530). The sealing member (530) may be provided between the first lower cover (510) and the second lower cover (520). The sealing member (530) may be provided between the first lower cover (510) and the second lower cover (520) to seal the second supply channel (521).

[0117] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a humidifier with a cover attached to the upper part of a water tank according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating steam generated inside the water tank of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure being discharged to the outside. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure with the button not being pressed. FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a protruding projection according to one embodiment of the present disclosure positioned on the first rail of a guide rail.

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14, steam generated inside the water tank (100) of the humidifier (2) can be discharged to the outside through the cover (200). Steam generated inside the water tank (100) can be discharged to the outside of the water tank (100) through the discharge hole (527) of the second lower cover (520). Steam discharged to the outside of the water tank (100) through the discharge hole (527) can flow into the discharge path (501) formed between the first lower cover (510) and the second lower cover (520). Steam flowing through the discharge channel (501) can be discharged to the outside through a plurality of first discharge holes (519, see FIG. 9) formed in the first lower cover (510), a discharge port (131, see FIG. 10) formed in the upper body (130), and a plurality of second discharge holes (360, see FIG. 7) formed in the upper cover (300).

[0119] When steam generated inside the water tank (100) is discharged to the outside, the button (320) may be in a non-pressurized state. Since the button (320) is in a non-pressurized state, the cover (200) may be locked to the water tank (100). That is, the locking projection (337) of the lever (330) may be engaged with the locking groove (133) of the upper body (130). When the button (320) is not pressed and the cover (200) is locked to the water tank (100), the protruding projection (135) of the upper body (130) may be positioned on the first rail (381) of the guide rail (380) formed on the upper cover (300).

[0120] FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a button of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a pressed state. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a button of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a pressed state.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, when the button (320) of the humidifier (2) is pressed, the lever (330) can be rotated by the button (320). The lever (330) can be rotated clockwise around the lever axis (331). When the lever (330) rotates clockwise around the lever axis (331) while the button (320) is pressed, the locking projection (337) can be released from the locking groove (133). When the locking projection (337) is released from the locking groove (133), the cover (200) can be unlocked from the water tank (100). When the cover (200) is unlocked from the water tank (100), the cover (200) can be rotated left and right. At this time, the protruding projection (135) of the upper body (130) may be positioned on the first rail (381) of the guide rail (380) formed on the upper cover (300), just as when the cover (200) is locked to the water tank (100). The locking of the cover (200) so that it rotates left and right by pressing the button (320) of the humidifier (2) can be referred to as the first mode. (See FIG. 14)

[0122] As described above, when the cover (200) is unlocked by pressing the button (320), only rotation of the cover (200) is possible, and the cover (200) can remain connected to the water tank (100). That is, by pressing the button (320), the cover (200) can be unlocked in order to rotate the cover (200) in the left and right directions.

[0123] FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating the cover being rotated in a first direction while the button of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is pressed. FIG. 18 is a drawing illustrating the guide rail being guided by a protruding projection and the protruding projection being positioned on a second rail when the cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is rotated in a first direction. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the water flowing into the cover opening being supplied into the water tank when the upper cover is moved upward by rotating the cover in a first direction while the button according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is pressed.

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 17 to 19, after unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320), the cover (200) can be rotated in a first direction. The first direction may be clockwise. In the first mode, where the cover (200) is unlocked by pressing the button (320), the cover (200) can be rotated left and right, so the cover (200) can be rotated in a first direction. Specifically, the upper cover (300) of the cover (200) can be rotated in the first direction.

[0125] When the cover (200) is rotated in the first direction, the upper cover (300) rotates in the first direction, so the guide rail (380) formed on the inner cover (303) of the upper cover (300) can be guided by the protruding projection (135). As the guide rail (380) is guided by the protruding projection (135), the protruding projection (135) moves along the second rail (383) and can be positioned at the end of the second rail (383). The end of the second rail (383) can be the first position. That is, when the cover (200) rotates in the first direction, the second rail (383) is guided by the protruding projection (135) so that the first lower cover (510) can be moved in the upward direction. When the upper cover (300) rotates in the first direction, the protruding projection (135) is fixed, so the first lower cover (510) can be moved in the upward direction.

[0126] When the first lower cover (510) moves in the upward direction, the upper cover (300) can also move in the upward direction together with the first lower cover (510). Accordingly, the second rail (383) can be guided by the protruding projection (135) when the cover (200) rotates in the first direction, so that the upper cover (300) can move in the upward direction.

[0127] When the first lower cover (510) is moved upward, the supply channels (511, 521) can be opened. When the first lower cover (510) is moved upward, the second supply hole (517), which was closed by the second water supply unit (523), can be opened. Additionally, when the first lower cover (510) is moved upward, the third supply hole (525), which was closed by the first water supply unit (515), can be opened.

[0128] When the second supply hole (517) is opened, the first supply path (511) can be opened. That is, when the second supply hole (517) is opened, water flowing into the cover opening (350) can be supplied into the water tank (100) by passing through the first supply hole (513), the first water supply section (515), and the second supply hole (517).

[0129] When both the second supply hole (517) and the third supply hole (525) are opened, both the first supply path (511) and the second supply path (521) can be opened. That is, when both the second supply hole (517) and the third supply hole (525) are opened, water flowing into the cover opening (350) can be supplied into the water tank (100) by passing through the first supply hole (513), the first water supply section (515), the second supply hole (517), and the third supply hole (525).

[0130] As described above, after unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320), if the cover (200) is rotated in the first direction, water can be supplied into the water tank (100) while the cover (200) is connected to the water tank (100). After unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320), if the cover (200) is rotated in the first direction so that water can be supplied into the water tank (100) while the cover (200) is connected to the water tank (100), this can be referred to as the second mode.

[0131] In the drawing, it is shown that when the cover (200) is unlocked by pressing the button (320) and then rotated in the first direction, the first lower cover (510) moves upward and the supply passage (511, 521) is opened, but this is not limited thereto. For example, when the cover (200) is unlocked by pressing the button (320) and then rotated in the first direction, the first lower cover (510) rotates and the supply passage (511, 521) can be opened. That is, the supply passage (511, 521) can be opened and closed as the first lower cover (510) rotates. The first lower cover (510) may be configured to rotate in the first direction or may be configured to rotate in the second direction. However, for the sake of convenience of explanation, it will be explained that when the upper cover (300) rotates in the first direction, the first lower cover (510) also rotates in the first direction.

[0132] Although not illustrated in the drawings, to describe the above embodiment in detail, the configuration of the first supply hole (513), the first water supply section (515), and the second supply hole (517) constituting the first supply channel (511) may be the same as the configuration shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 19. However, because the first lower cover (510) rotates, the configuration of the second water supply section (523) constituting the second supply channel (521) and the third supply hole (525) may be different.

[0133] The second water supply section (523) constituting the second supply path (521) may be formed to have an arc shape along the direction in which the first lower cover (510) rotates. A third supply hole (525) may be formed on the bottom surface of the second water supply section (523) having an arc shape. The third supply hole (525) may be formed on one side of the bottom surface of the second water supply section (523).

[0134] Before the upper cover (300) rotates in the first direction, the first water supply section (515), in which the first supply hole (513) and the second supply hole (517) are formed, may be located on the other side of the bottom surface of the second water supply section (523). That is, the second supply hole (517) may be closed by the bottom surface of the second water supply section (523), thereby closing the supply path (511, 521).

[0135] When the upper cover (300) rotates in the first direction, the first lower cover (510) rotates in the first direction, and the first water supply section (515), in which the first supply hole (513) and the second supply hole (517) are formed, can be located on one side of the bottom surface of the second water supply section (523). That is, the second supply hole (517) can be connected to the third supply hole (525), and the supply path (511, 521) can be opened.

[0136] FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a cover rotated in a second direction while a button is pressed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 21 is a drawing illustrating a guide rail guided by a protruding projection and positioned on a third rail when the cover according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is rotated in a second direction. FIG. 22 is a drawing illustrating a guide rail guided by a protruding projection and positioned on a fourth rail when the cover according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is lifted upward after being rotated in a second direction. FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating a cover separated from a water tank according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, after unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320), the cover (200) can be rotated in a second direction. The second direction may be counterclockwise. In the first mode, where the cover (200) is unlocked by pressing the button (320), the cover (200) can be rotated left and right, so the cover (200) can be rotated in a second direction. Specifically, the upper cover (300) of the cover (200) can be rotated in the second direction.

[0138] When the cover (200) is rotated in the second direction, the upper cover (300) rotates in the second direction, so the guide rail (380) formed on the inner cover (303) of the upper cover (300) can be guided by the protruding projection (135). As the guide rail (380) is guided by the protruding projection (135), the protruding projection (135) moves along the third rail (385) and can be positioned at the end of the third rail (385). The end of the third rail (385) can be the second position. That is, the third rail (385) can be guided by the protruding projection (135) when the cover (200) rotates in the second direction, allowing the cover (200) to be separated from the water tank (100).

[0139] As described above, after unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320), the cover (200) can be separated from the water tank (100) by rotating the cover (200) in the second direction. Unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320) and then rotating the cover (200) in the second direction to separate the cover (200) from the water tank (100) can be referred to as the third mode.

[0140] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, after unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320), if the cover (200) is lifted upward while rotating the cover (200) in the second direction, the guide rail (380) is guided by the protruding projection (135) so that the protruding projection (135) can be positioned on the fourth rail (384). That is, the fourth rail (387) can be guided by the protruding projection (135) when the cover (200) is rotated in the second direction so that the cover (200) can be separated from the water tank (100). After unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320) first, the cover (200) can be unlocked a second time by rotating the cover (200) in the second direction so that the cover (200) can be separated from the water tank (100).

[0141] After unlocking the cover (200) by pressing the button (320), the cover (200) can be separated from the water tank (100) by lifting the cover (200) upward while rotating the cover (200) in the second direction. After separating the cover (200) from the water tank (100), water can be supplied directly into the water tank (100). Additionally, after separating the cover (200) from the water tank (100), the inside of the water tank (100) can be cleaned. Additionally, after separating the cover (200) from the water tank (100), the cover (200) can be cleaned.

[0142]

[0143] A humidifier according to one embodiment of the disclosed invention comprises a housing (10), a water tank (100) provided to contain water inside the housing and generating steam inside, and a cover (200) detachably coupled to the upper part of the water tank. The cover comprises a button (320), a first mode for unlocking the cover by pressing the button to rotate the cover in a left-right direction, a second mode for unlocking the cover by pressing the button and then rotating the cover in a first direction to supply water inside the water tank while the cover is coupled to the water tank, and a third mode for unlocking the cover by pressing the button and then rotating the cover in a second direction opposite to the first direction to separate the cover from the water tank.

[0144] The above cover may further include an upper cover (300) which is rotatably coupled to the upper part of the water tank and includes a cover opening (350) for supplying water into the water tank, a water distribution unit (400) which is disposed below the upper cover and distributes water supplied through the cover opening, and a lower cover (500) which is provided below the water distribution unit and includes a supply channel (e.g., at least one of the supply channels (511, 521)) for supplying water supplied through the cover opening into the water tank.

[0145] The upper cover may include a handle (310) which is assembled so that the button can move in the up and down direction and includes an opening (315) through which a part of the button is exposed to the outside; a lever (330) which is rotatably assembled to the handle and arranged to contact the button and rotates by the button when the button is pressed; and a spring (340) which accumulates elastic force when the button is pressed and the lever rotates, and causes the lever to rotate to its original position by the accumulated elastic force when the button is released.

[0146] The lever may include a lever shaft (331) rotatably assembled to the handle, a first part (333) in contact with the button, a second part (335) formed on the opposite side of the first part with respect to the lever shaft, and a locking projection (337) formed at the end of the second part to unlock the cover when the cover is in the first mode.

[0147] The lower cover may include a first lower cover (510) which is movably arranged in the vertical direction at the lower part of the upper cover and includes a first supply channel (511) that forms a part of the supply channel; a second lower cover (520) which is coupled to the upper part of the water tank to be positioned at the lower part of the first lower cover and includes a second supply channel (521) that forms the supply channel together with the first supply channel; and a sealing member (530) which is arranged between the first lower cover and the second lower cover and seals the second supply channel.

[0148] The first supply channel may include a first supply hole (513) that supplies water supplied through the cover opening into the water tank, a first water supply section (515) that extends downward from the first supply hole and forms a space inside through which water supplied through the first supply hole flows, and a second supply hole (517) that is formed to be open at the bottom of the first water supply section.

[0149] The second supply channel may include a second supply section (523) in which the first supply section is accommodated, and a third supply hole (525) formed at the lower side wall of the second supply section, which communicates with the second supply hole and supplies water into the water tank when the upper cover rotates in the first direction and the first lower cover moves in the upward direction.

[0150] The second lower cover may include a discharge hole (527) for discharging steam generated inside the tank to the outside of the tank.

[0151] A discharge channel (501) through which steam discharged through the discharge hole flows may be formed between the first lower cover and the second lower cover.

[0152] The first lower cover may include a plurality of first discharge holes (519) for discharging steam flowing through the discharge path to the outside of the first lower cover.

[0153] The upper cover may include a plurality of second discharge holes (360) for discharging steam discharged through the plurality of first discharge holes to the outside of the cover, and a discharge path (370) through which steam discharged through the plurality of second discharge holes flows to the outside of the cover.

[0154] The above water tank may include a tank (110) in which water is contained, a lower body (120) that surrounds the outer surface of the tank, and an upper body (130) that is coupled to the upper part of the lower body and to which the upper cover is rotatably coupled.

[0155] The upper body may include a discharge port (131) for discharging steam discharged through the plurality of first discharge holes to the plurality of second discharge holes, a locking groove (133) in which the locking projection of the lever is engaged and unlocked, and a protruding projection (135) formed to protrude from the inner circumference of the upper body and configured to allow the cover to operate in the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode according to the rotation of the upper cover.

[0156] The upper cover may include a guide rail (380) that is guided by the protruding projection when the upper cover rotates.

[0157] The guide rail may include a first rail (381) on which the protruding projection is located when the cover is in the first mode; a second rail (383) extending downward at an angle from one side of the first rail and guided by the protruding projection when the cover rotates in the first direction to allow the upper cover to move in the upward direction; a third rail (385) extending parallel from the other side of the first rail and guided by the protruding projection when the cover rotates in the second direction to allow the cover to be separated from the water tank; and a fourth rail (387) extending vertically downward from the third rail and guided by the protruding projection when the cover rotates in the second direction to allow the cover to be separated from the water tank.

[0158] A humidifying air purifier according to one embodiment of the disclosed invention includes a cabinet (1) that accommodates a humidifier (2) inside, and an air purifier (3) that is accommodated inside the cabinet and positioned below the humidifier. The humidifier includes a water tank (100) that is provided to accommodate water inside, and a cover (200) that is detachably coupled to the upper part of the water tank. The cover includes a button (320), an upper cover (300) that is rotatably provided on the upper part of the water tank and includes a cover opening (350) that supplies water into the water tank, and a lower cover (500) that is provided on the lower part of the upper cover and includes a supply channel (511, 521) that supplies water supplied through the cover opening into the water tank. After pressing the above button, if the upper cover rotates in a first direction, water is supplied into the water tank through the cover opening while the cover is coupled to the water tank, and after pressing the above button, if the upper cover rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the cover is separated from the water tank.

[0159] The upper cover may include a lever (330) that is rotated by the button when the button is pressed, and the water tank may include a locking groove (133) in which the lever is locked and unlocked, and a protruding projection (135) that is located at a first position of the upper cover when the upper cover is rotated in the first direction and at a second position of the upper cover when the upper cover is rotated in the second direction.

[0160] When the lever is rotated by pressing the button above, the lever is released from the locking groove, and the upper cover can be unlocked to be rotatable.

[0161] After unlocking the upper cover by pressing the button above, if the upper cover is rotated in the first direction so that the protruding projection is positioned at the first position, the lower cover can open the supply path.

[0162] After unlocking the upper cover by pressing the button above, if the upper cover is rotated in the second direction so that the protruding projection is positioned at the second position, the cover can be separated from the water tank.

[0163] According to the present disclosure, the locking structure of a humidifier is improved to enhance ease of use while also satisfying safety specifications.

[0164] According to the present disclosure, the cover lock is released in a double manner in a first and second stage, thereby preventing leakage even when the humidifier is tipped over.

[0165] According to the present disclosure, water can be supplied into the water tank without separating the cover from the water tank.

[0166] According to the present disclosure, after separating the cover from the tank, the inside of the tank and the cover can be washed.

[0167] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains from the description below.

[0168] It should be understood that various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, in accordance with the claims and the specification.

[0169] Such software may be stored on a non-transient computer-readable storage medium. A non-transient computer-readable storage medium stores one or more computer programs (software modules), and said one or more computer programs include computer execution instructions that cause an electronic device to perform the method of the present disclosure when executed alone or in combination by one or more electronic device processors.

[0170] Such software may be stored in a volatile or non-volatile storage form, for example, on a storage device such as read-only memory (ROM), regardless of whether it is erasable or rewritable, or on a memory form such as random access memory (RAM), a memory chip, a device, or an integrated circuit, or on an optically or magnetically readable medium such as a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), a magnetic disc, a magnetic tape, etc. It will be understood that such storage devices and storage media are various embodiments of non-transient machine-readable storage media capable of storing a computer program containing instructions and implementing various embodiments of the present disclosure when said instructions are executed. Accordingly, various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a program containing code for implementing an apparatus or method described in any one of claims of this specification, and a non-transient machine-readable storage medium storing said program.

[0171] Although the present disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to various embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications to the shape and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and equivalents.

Claims

1. Housing; A water tank arranged to contain water inside the above housing and generating steam inside; and Includes a cover detachably coupled to the upper part of the above water tank. The above cover is, Button; A first mode for unlocking the cover by pressing the above button so that the cover rotates in the left and right directions; A second mode in which, after unlocking the cover by pressing the button above, the cover is rotated in a first direction to supply water into the tank while the cover is coupled to the tank; and A third mode in which, after unlocking the cover by pressing the button, the cover is rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction so that the cover is separated from the water tank; A humidifier including 2. In Paragraph 1, The above cover is, An upper cover rotatably coupled to the upper part of the water tank and including a cover opening for supplying water into the water tank; A water distribution unit disposed at the lower part of the upper cover and distributing water supplied through the cover opening; and A humidifier further comprising: a lower cover provided at the lower part of the water distribution section and including a supply channel for supplying water supplied through the cover opening into the water tank.

3. In Paragraph 2, The upper cover above is, A handle comprising an opening in which a portion of the button is exposed to the outside, and which is assembled to be movable in the up-and-down direction; A lever rotatably assembled to the handle and arranged to contact the button, which rotates by the button when the button is pressed; and A humidifier comprising: a spring that accumulates elastic force when the button is pressed and the lever rotates, and causes the lever to rotate to its original position by the accumulated elastic force when the button is released.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above lever is, A lever shaft rotatably assembled to the above handle; A first part in contact with the above button; A second part formed on the opposite side of the first part with respect to the lever axis; and A humidifier comprising: a locking projection formed at the end of the second part and which unlocks the cover when the cover is in the first mode.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above lower cover is, A first lower cover provided to be movable in the vertical direction at the lower part of the upper cover and including a first supply channel forming a part of the supply channel; A second lower cover coupled to the upper part of the water tank so as to be disposed at the lower part of the first lower cover, and comprising a second supply channel that forms the supply channel together with the first supply channel; and A humidifier comprising: a sealing member provided between the first lower cover and the second lower cover and sealing the second supply path.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above first supply path is, A first supply hole that supplies water supplied through the cover opening into the water tank; A first water supply section extending downward from the first supply hole and forming a space inside through which water supplied to the first supply hole flows; and A humidifier comprising: a second supply hole formed to be open at the lower part of the first water supply section.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above second supply path is, A second water supply unit in which the first water supply unit is accommodated; and A humidifier comprising: a third supply hole formed at the lower part of the side wall of the second water supply section, which communicates with the second supply hole and supplies water into the water tank when the upper cover rotates in the first direction and the first lower cover moves in the upward direction.

8. In Paragraph 5, The above second lower cover is a humidifier that includes a discharge hole for discharging steam generated inside the water tank to the outside of the water tank.

9. In Paragraph 8, A humidifier in which a discharge path is formed between the first lower cover and the second lower cover through which steam discharged through the discharge hole flows.

10. In Paragraph 9, A humidifier comprising a plurality of first discharge holes that discharge steam flowing through the discharge path to the outside of the first lower cover.

11. In Paragraph 10, The upper cover above is, A plurality of second discharge holes for discharging steam discharged through the plurality of first discharge holes to the outside of the cover; and A humidifier comprising: a discharge path through which steam discharged through the plurality of second discharge holes flows outside the cover.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above tank is, A tank containing water inside; A lower body surrounding the outer surface of the above tank; and A humidifier comprising: an upper body coupled to the upper part of the lower body and having an upper cover rotatably coupled thereto.

13. In Paragraph 12, The upper body above is, A discharge port for discharging steam discharged through the plurality of first discharge holes to the plurality of second discharge holes; A locking groove in which the locking projection of the lever is engaged and unlocked; and A humidifier comprising: a protruding projection formed to protrude from the inner circumference of the upper body, wherein the cover operates in the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode according to the rotation of the upper cover.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above upper cover is a humidifier that includes a guide rail guided by the protruding projection when the above upper cover rotates.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above guide rail is, A first rail where the protruding projection is located when the above cover is in the first mode; A second rail extending downwardly at an angle from one side of the first rail, and guided by the protruding projection when the cover rotates in the first direction so that the upper cover moves upward; A third rail extending parallel to the other side of the first rail and guided by the protruding projection when the cover rotates in the second direction so that the cover can be separated from the water tank; and A humidifier comprising: a fourth rail that extends vertically downward from the third rail and is guided by the protruding projection when the cover is rotated in the second direction so that the cover is separated from the water tank.

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