JP6847122B2 - Humidifier - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a humidifying device for preventing indoor drying.

Conventionally, a humidifying device that vaporizes water with a humidifying element to humidify air has been used. Patent Document 1 discloses a humidifying device capable of increasing the humidifying efficiency. In the humidifying device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the pump is driven during the humidifying operation, and the pump is stopped after the moisture has spread to the humidifying element. In addition, the time during which the moisture adhering to the humidifying element vaporizes or flows downward to increase the surface area of the humidifying element that contributes to the vaporization of the moisture and the amount of humidification increases is predetermined, and the pump is restarted after this time elapses. I try to do it. By intermittently driving the pump during the humidification operation, the humidification efficiency is improved.

Japanese Patent No. 4676400

However, in the humidifying device of Patent Document 1, when a humidifying element having a property of increasing the surface area by intermittent water supply is mounted, improvement in humidification efficiency can be expected, but a humidifying element having no property of increasing the surface area by intermittent water supply is used. It is difficult to expect an improvement in humidification efficiency with the on-board humidifier.

In addition, since the pump is stopped after the moisture has spread to the humidifying element, if the water retention performance of the humidifying element is high, the humidified air continues to be blown from the humidifying element even after the water supply to the humidifying element is stopped. The room became over-humidified, which could impair user comfort.

Further, since the amount of humidification from the humidifying element greatly depends on the temperature and humidity of the air passing through the humidifying element and the amount of air, if the intermittent cycle is set without considering these as in Patent Document 1, useless water supply is generated. On the contrary, when a part of the humidifying element is dried, the karuki component may be precipitated and white powder may be generated, or the life of the humidifying element may be shortened.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to obtain a humidifying device that prevents over-humidification in a room and maximizes the water-saving effect without shortening the life of the humidifying element.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, the present invention provides a main body in which an air air passage for communicating the suction port and the air outlet is formed inside, and the air air passage, and sucks in during operation. An air blowing means that generates an air flow from the mouth to the air outlet, a humidifying element provided in the air air passage, a water supply means that supplies water to the humidifying element, and operation in a humidifying mode in which water is supplied to the humidifying element. It is equipped with a control unit that switches between operation in the ventilation mode in which the supply of water to the humidifying element is stopped and the ventilation means is operated, and the control unit is the humidity of the room to which the air blown from the air outlet is supplied. A humidifying device characterized in that the operating time in the humidifying mode is set based on the humidity.

The humidifying device according to the present invention has the effect of preventing over-humidification in the room and maximizing the water-saving effect without shortening the life of the humidifying element.

The figure which shows the schematic structure of the humidifying apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. The figure which shows the time transition of the humidification amount from the humidification apparatus and the water retention rate of a humidification element which concerns on Embodiment 1. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the first embodiment. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the first embodiment. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the first embodiment. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the first embodiment. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the first embodiment. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the first embodiment. The figure which shows the table which determines the humidification mode target water retention rate used in the humidifying apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1. The figure which shows another example of the table which determines the humidification mode target water retention rate used in the humidification apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the second embodiment. The figure which shows the table which determines the humidification mode target water retention rate used in the humidifying apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the third embodiment. The figure which shows the table which determines the humidification mode target water retention rate used in the humidifying apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3. A flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit of the humidifying device according to the fourth embodiment. The figure which shows the hardware configuration of the control device in Embodiments 1 to 4.

Hereinafter, the humidifying device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

Embodiment 1.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a humidifying device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the humidifying device 100 includes a main body 6 in which an air passage 3 communicating with a suction port 1 and an air outlet 2 is formed inside. The air passage 3 is provided with a sirocco fan 4 which is a means of blowing air. The sirocco fan 4 generates an air flow from the suction port 1 to the air outlet 2 in the air passage 3 at the time of operation.

The air passage 3 is provided with an air cleaning filter 21, a humidity sensor 22, a temperature sensor 23, and a water supply tank 7 in this order from the suction port 1 side. The main body 6 is provided with a water supply means 11 for supplying water to the water supply tank 7. The water supply means 11 includes a water supply connection port 8 formed in the main body 6, a pipe 5 extending from the water supply connection port 8 toward the water supply tank 7, and a water supply valve 9 for opening and closing the pipe 5. By opening the water supply valve 9, water is supplied to the water supply tank 7 from the water supply port 10 which is one end of the pipe 5.

A humidifying element 17 for humidifying the air passing through the air passage 3 is provided in the air passage 3 below the water supply tank 7. On the bottom surface of the water supply tank 7, a plurality of holes (not shown) for dispersing the water supplied by the water supply means 11 in the humidifying element 17 are formed. Water supplied from the water supply tank 7 permeates and diffuses into the humidifying element 17. The water vaporized by the humidifying element 17 humidifies the air passing through the air passage 3. The water that is not retained by the humidifying element 17 flows to the drain tank 12 provided below the humidifying element 17. A drainage port 14 is formed on the bottom surface of the drainage tank 12. The drainage port 14 is connected to the drainage connection port 13 provided in the main body 6 to form the drainage means 15.

The main body 6 is provided with an operating means 20. By operating the operating means 20, the operation and stop of the humidifying device 100 can be selected. Further, by operating the operating means 20, it is possible to perform a selection operation of strong and weak air volume. Further, the main body 6 is provided with a control device 25. The control device 25 is provided with a control unit 19 and a storage unit 16. The control unit 19 controls the operation of the sirocco fan 4 and the water supply valve 9 based on the operation from the operating means 20, the humidity sensor 22, and the information from the temperature sensor 23. Various information described later is stored in the storage unit 16.

The sirocco fan 4 may be provided on the upstream side of the humidifying element 17, or may be provided on the downstream side of the humidifying element 17. Further, it may be provided outside the main body 6 and connected to a duct. Further, when it is provided outside the main body 6, it may be provided on the upstream side of the main body 6 or on the downstream side of the main body 6.

Further, the humidity sensor 22, which is an indoor humidity detecting means, may be provided outside the main body 6 as long as it detects the humidity in the room to which the air blown from the humidifying device 100 is supplied, and the air passage 3 may be provided. Other than that, it may be provided. For example, it may be installed in a humidified space. Further, the operating means 20 may be provided so that the operating means 20 acquires the detected humidity. Further, an external device other than the humidifying device 100 and the operating means 20 may function as a humidity sensor.

When applying the present invention to a heat exchange ventilation device, in addition to the above example, a humidity sensor may be installed in the exhaust air passage that communicates the indoor suction port and the total heat exchanger. Further, when applying the present invention to a non-heat exchange ventilation device, in addition to the above example, a humidity sensor may be installed in an exhaust air passage communicating the indoor suction port and the outdoor discharge port. Further, the operating means 20 may be an operating switch provided on the main body 6 instead of the remote controller as shown in FIG.

Further, the temperature sensor 23 only needs to be able to detect the temperature of the air before passing through the humidifying element 17. Therefore, the temperature sensor 23 may be provided outside the main body 6 or may be provided in a place other than the air passage 3. For example, when the present invention is applied to an indoor circulation type humidifier, a temperature sensor may be installed in the humidification target space. Further, the operating means 20 may be provided with a temperature sensor. Further, the control unit 19 may perform temperature correction in consideration of the difference between the temperature in the room and the temperature in the ceiling. An external device other than the humidifying device 100 and the operating means 20 may function as a temperature sensor.

When the present invention is applied to a heat exchange ventilation device, a temperature sensor installed in an exhaust air passage that communicates an indoor suction port and a total heat exchanger, and a supply that communicates the outdoor suction port and the total heat exchanger. The temperature of the air before passing through the humidifying element 17 may be calculated from the heat exchange efficiency of the temperature sensor installed in the air passage and the total heat exchanger. Further, an external device other than the humidifying device 100 and the operating means 20 may function as a temperature sensor.

When the present invention is applied to a non-heat exchange ventilation device, a temperature sensor may be installed in the air supply air passage that communicates the outdoor suction port and the total heat exchanger, or may be installed outdoors. Further, an external device other than the humidifying device 100 and the operating means 20 may function as a temperature sensor.

Next, a sufficient amount of water is supplied from the water supply tank 7 so that the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 becomes 100%, and after the water permeates and diffuses, the water supply from the water supply means 11 is stopped, and the sirocco fan 4 Explain how the amount of humidification from the humidifying device 100 and the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 change when an air flow from the suction port 1 to the air outlet 2 is generated in the air passage 3 by rotation. ..

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the temporal transition of the humidification amount from the humidifying device 100 and the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 according to the first embodiment. In the embodiment of the present invention, when the humidifying device 100 is operated at the selected air volume "weak", half the air volume is generated as compared with the selected air volume "strong".

Here, the graph of FIG. 2 (a) shows the transition of the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 after the water supply is stopped when the selected air volume is “strong”, and the graph of FIG. 2 (b) shows the transition of the water retention rate when the selected air volume is “strong”. It shows the transition of the humidification amount from the humidifier 100 after the water supply is stopped. Further, the graph of FIG. 2C shows the transition of the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 after the water supply is stopped when the selected air volume is “weak”, and the graph of FIG. 2 (d) shows the water supply when the selected air volume is “weak”. It shows the transition of the humidifying amount from the humidifying device 100 after the stop. The time on the horizontal axis is set to 0 when the rotation of the sirocco fan 4 is started after the water supply is stopped.

First, the transition of the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 and the humidifying amount from the humidifying device 100 when the selected air volume is “strong”, that is, in the cases of FIGS. 2A and 2B will be described. At time 0, the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 is 100%, and the amount of humidification from the humidifying device 100 is 100%, which is the maximum. Further, the humidification amount is 100% when the entire surface of the humidification element 17 is moist and the selective air volume is "strong" and the sirocco fan 4 is operated.

After that, as the sirocco fan 4 rotates, the water retained in the humidifying element 17 is vaporized, and the water retention rate gradually decreases. However, even if the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 decreases, the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 remains moist for a while (in the graph, from the stop of water supply to 2.0 [hr]). The amount of humidification itself from the humidifier 100 will be maintained at almost 100%.

After that, when the vaporization of the water retained in the humidifying element 17 further progresses, the wet area of the humidifying element 17 begins to decrease, so that the amount of humidification from the humidifying device 100 decreases. By reducing the amount of humidification from the humidifying device 100, the decrease in the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 is slowed down. After that, when the vaporization of the water retained in the humidifying element 17 further progresses, the water retention rate finally becomes 0%, and the humidifying element 17 becomes completely dry. This is 3.0 [hr] from the stop of water supply in the graph.

Next, the transition of the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 and the transition of the humidifying amount from the humidifying device 100 when the selected air volume is “weak”, that is, in the cases of FIGS. 2 (c) and 2 (d) will be described. At time 0, the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 is 100%, and the humidifying amount from the humidifying device 100 is 50% because the selected air volume is half of "strong".

After that, as the sirocco fan 4 rotates, the water retained in the humidifying element 17 is vaporized, and the water retention rate gradually decreases. However, even if the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 decreases, the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 remains moist for a while (in the graph, from the stop of water supply to 4.0 [hr]). The amount of humidification itself from the humidifier 100 will be kept substantially constant.

Since the amount of humidification from the humidifying device 100 is halved as compared with the case where the selected air volume is "strong", the rate of decrease in the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 is also halved. As a result, the time during which the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is moistened is about doubled.

After that, when the vaporization of the water retained in the humidifying element 17 further progresses, the wet area of the humidifying element 17 begins to decrease, so that the amount of humidification from the humidifying device 100 decreases. By reducing the amount of humidification from the humidifying device 100, the decrease in the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 is slowed down.

After that, when the vaporization of the water retained in the humidifying element 17 further progresses, the water retention rate finally becomes 0%, and the humidifying element 17 becomes completely dry. This is the time point 6.0 [hr] from the stop of water supply in the graph.

Next, an example of the operation when the user operates the operating means 20 to operate the humidifying device 100 will be described. 3 to 8 are flowcharts showing an example of a control operation by the control unit 19 of the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment.

The operation and stop operation of the humidifying device 100 performed by the user via the operation means 20 may be performed by directly operating the operation / stop button (not shown) provided in the operation means 20, or may be performed by the operation means 20. It may be implemented automatically by the provided schedule function.

Further, the next operation / stop schedule information in the schedule function provided in the operating means 20 is periodically transmitted to the control unit 19 of the humidifying device 100. The steps shown in the following drawings show the determination and control performed by the control unit 19. Various information including the operation / stop schedule information is stored in the storage unit 16. The storage unit 16 may be provided in the operating means 20.

After the power is turned on to the humidifying device 100, in step S1 shown in FIG. 3, initialization for setting the “drying timer” to the “drying completion time” is performed, and the process proceeds to step S2. In the first embodiment, the "drying completion time" is set to "3.0 hr". That is, in step S1, the count value of the "drying timer" is set to "3.0 hr" which is the "drying completion time".

When the "drying timer" is equal to or longer than the "drying completion time", it is determined that the humidifying element 17 is completely dried. If the "drying timer" is less than the "drying completion time", it is determined that all or part of the humidifying element 17 is wet, and the "drying timer" is less than "2.0 hr". If it is, it is determined that the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is wet, and if the "drying timer" is "2.0 hr" or more, a part of the humidifying element 17 is wet. It will be judged that there is. The "drying completion time" set as the initial value of the "drying timer" is a predetermined value, but may be changed by the operating means 20, or may be changed according to the operating time of the humidifying device 100. , It may be corrected in consideration of aging deterioration.

Next, in step S2, the "humidification mode operation timer" and the "blower mode operation timer" are set to clear stop, that is, the count is stopped at 0, and then the process proceeds to step S11 shown in FIG.

In step S11, it is determined whether the count value of the "drying timer" is "3.0 hr" or more. If the "drying timer" is "3.0 hr" or more (steps S11, Yes), the process proceeds to step S12. Immediately after the power is turned on, since the count value of the "drying timer" is set to "3.0 hr" in step S1, it becomes "3.0 hr" or more, and the process proceeds to step S12.

In step S12, the stop mode is set, and then in step S13, the water supply valve 9 is closed, the sirocco fan 4 is stopped, and the process proceeds to step S18. In the following description, the control mode in which the water supply valve 9 is closed and the sirocco fan 4 is stopped is referred to as a stop mode, the control mode in which the water supply valve 9 is closed and the sirocco fan 4 is rotated is referred to as a ventilation mode, and the water supply valve 9 is opened. The control mode is called a humidification mode.

In step S11, if the "drying timer" is less than "3.0 hr" (steps S11, No), the process proceeds to step S14. After setting the ventilation mode in step S14, the water supply valve 9 is closed and the sirocco fan 4 is rotated in step S15, the "drying timer" is counted in step S16, and the process proceeds to step S17.

In step S17, the current water retention rate, which is the current water retention rate of the humidification element 17, is calculated and updated as follows from the characteristics of the humidification element 17 in FIG. 2 and the value of the “drying timer”, and the process proceeds to step S18. That is, the control unit 19 functions as a water retention rate estimation unit that estimates the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17.
When the drying timer is less than 2.0 hr, that is, when the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is wet,
Current water retention rate = 100% -40% × Drying timer [hr]
When the drying timer is 2.0 hr or more, that is, when the wet area of the humidifying element 17 is reduced,
Current water retention rate = 20% -20% × (Drying timer [hr] -2 [hr])

In step S16, the "drying timer" changes the counting method according to the selected air volume. Specifically, when the selected air volume is "strong", 1 second is counted every 1 second. When the selected air volume is "weak", the air volume is halved and the drying speed is halved as compared with the case where the selected air volume is "strong". Therefore, 1 second is counted every 2 seconds. That is, in the humidifying element 17 in the first embodiment, when the selected air volume is "strong" and the air volume is constant, "3.0 hr" elapses and the "drying timer" counts "3.0 hr". When the selected air volume is "weak" and the air volume is constant, "6.0 hr" elapses and the "drying timer" counts "3.0 hr". The "drying timer" may be configured by software by the control device 25, or may be configured as hardware separate from the control device 25.

In step S18, it is determined by the operating means 20 whether or not the user has operated the humidifying device 100. If the humidifying device 100 has not been operated (steps S18, No), the process returns to step S11. On the other hand, if the humidifying device 100 has been operated (steps S18, Yes), the process proceeds to step S21 shown in FIG.

In addition, proceeding to step S14 means that the drying operation is not completed when the humidifying device 100 is operated. Unless it is determined in step S18 that the operation of the humidifying device 100 has been performed, by returning to step S11, the "drying timer" is set to the "drying completion time" when the humidifying device 100 is stopped, that is, "3. The humidifying element 17 is completely dried by continuing the operation of the ventilation mode until it reaches "0 hr".

In step S21, the control mode of the humidifying device 100 is set to the ventilation mode, and in step S22, the “blower mode operation time” is set to “5 minutes”, and then the process proceeds to step S31 shown in FIG.

In step S31, it is determined whether the control mode is the humidification mode or the ventilation mode. If the control mode is the ventilation mode, the process proceeds to step S41 shown in FIG. 7, and if the control mode is the humidification mode, the process proceeds to step S61 shown in FIG. The operation from step S41 to step S52 shown in FIG. 7 is an operation in the ventilation mode, and the operation from step S61 to step S70 shown in FIG. 8 is an operation in the humidification mode.

First, the operation when the ventilation mode is determined in step S31, that is, the operation in the ventilation mode shown in FIG. 7 will be described. In step S41, the "blower mode operation timer" is counted, and the process proceeds to step S42.

In step S42, it is determined whether or not the "blower mode operation timer" has exceeded the "blower mode operation time" set in step S22 described above or step S70 described later.
When the "blower mode operation timer" becomes equal to or longer than the "blower mode operation time" (steps S42, Yes), the process proceeds to step S43. On the other hand, if the "blower mode operation timer" is less than the "blower mode operation time" (steps S42, No), the process proceeds to step S44.

If the "blower mode operation time" = 5 minutes is set in step S22 and then the process proceeds to step S42 via step S31 and step S41, the judgment in step S42 is that the detection value of the humidity sensor 22 is used. The purpose is to wait for a certain period of time until it stabilizes, and the time is adjusted according to the installation environment of the humidifying device 100. In the first embodiment, the fixed time is set to 5 minutes, but it may be changed as appropriate, and there may be no waiting time, that is, the fixed time may be set to 0. Further, when the process first proceeds to step S42 from step S14 through step S18, a certain time may have already passed. In this case as well, the process immediately proceeds to step S43.

Further, in step S70, which will be described later, the time for keeping the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 wet is set as the "blower mode operation time", so that the "blower mode operation timer" is less than the "blower mode operation time". In the case of (steps S42, No), even if the step S43 is not passed, that is, even if “detection humidity <target humidity −5%” is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S44 without transitioning to the humidification mode. In other words, I try not to uselessly supply water.

In step S43, it is determined whether the detected humidity of the humidity sensor 22 is less than the first specified humidity, "target humidity -5%". If the detected humidity is “target humidity −5%” or more (steps S43, No), the process proceeds to step S44. On the other hand, if the detected humidity is less than "target humidity -5%" (steps S43, Yes), the process proceeds to step S49.

The first specified humidity "target humidity -5%" is set to a humidity lower than the second specified humidity "target humidity + 5%", which will be described later, because the detected humidity fluctuates near the target humidity. This is to prevent the occurrence of so-called chattering, in which the control mode is frequently switched between the humidification mode and the ventilation mode. Therefore, as long as the occurrence of chattering can be suppressed, the magnitude relationship between the second specified humidity and the first specified humidity does not matter. Further, it is assumed that the target humidity is preset by the user by the operating means 20.

In step S44, the water supply valve 9 is closed while the sirocco fan 4 is rotating, and the process proceeds to step S45. Since the water supply valve 9 is closed in this step S44, the water supply from the water supply port 10 to the water supply tank 7 is stopped. That is, the water supply to the humidifying element 17 is stopped.

As a result, when water is retained by the humidifying element 17, the amount of humidification is maintained for a certain period of time as shown in FIG. 2 as the vaporization and evaporation progresses, but when the humidifying element 17 gradually dries, it is finally humidified. The air is no longer supplied. Since the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment is provided with the air cleaning filter 21, the air cleaning operation is performed in the ventilation mode after the humidifying element 17 is completely dried. It can be said that it is doing.

In step S45, the counting of the "drying timer" is started, and the process proceeds to step S46. As for the counting of the "drying timer" in step S45, the counting method is changed according to the selected air volume, as in step S16.

In step S46, the "current water retention rate" of the humidifying element 17 is updated from the value of the "drying timer" in the same manner as in step S17, and the process proceeds to step S47.

In step S47, the "detected humidity change rate" of "15 minutes" is updated per fixed time in a state where the drying timer is less than 2.0 hr, that is, the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is wet, that is, in the first embodiment. Then, the process proceeds to step S48.

The calculation of the "detected humidity change rate" in step S47 is compared with the detected humidity 15 minutes ago, but the case where the humidification operation is performed immediately after the power is turned on and the operation state 15 minutes before is the "stop mode". In this case, or when the drying timer 15 minutes ago is 2.0 hr or more, the comparison process is not performed and the "detected humidity change rate" is set to "4%".

By performing the above processing, in the case of humidifying operation immediately after the power is turned on, the lower limit value is first set in the "humidification mode target water retention rate", in other words, the shortest time "15 minutes" is set in the "total wet operation time". Will be. That is, in the case of humidifying operation immediately after the power is turned on, in order to judge the influence of other environmental factors in the room, the "detected humidity change rate" is judged after supplying the minimum necessary water, and the next humidification mode is performed. During operation, the optimum value can be set for the "humidification mode target water retention rate" in consideration of the influence of other environmental factors in the room, so that unnecessary water supply is eliminated.

In step S48, it is determined by the operating means 20 whether or not the user has stopped the humidifying device 100. If the humidifying device 100 has been stopped (steps S48, Yes), the process proceeds to step S11. On the other hand, if the humidifying device 100 has not been stopped (steps S48 and No), the process returns to step S31.

Next, the processing after step S49, which proceeds to the case where the detected humidity is less than “target humidity −5%” (steps S43, Yes), will be described. In step S49, the control mode is changed to "humidification mode", and the process proceeds to step S50.

In step S50, the "blower mode operation timer" is cleared, that is, the count is stopped at 0, and then the process proceeds to step S51.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a table for determining a humidification mode target water retention rate used in the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment. In step S51, after setting the “humidification mode target water retention rate” according to the table of FIG. 9, the process proceeds to step S52. The "humidification mode target water retention rate" is updated in the selected air volume and step S47 described later, and is the "detection humidity change rate" in a state where the water retention rate is 20% or more, that is, the entire surface of the humidification element 17 is wet. It is decided based on.

Here, a method of determining the "humidification mode target water retention rate" in FIG. 9 will be described. If the "detected humidity change rate" is high, the room may become over-humidified if the ventilation mode operation time is long when the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is wet. Therefore, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" I try to keep it as small as possible. In the following description, the ventilation mode operation time in a state where the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is wet is referred to as "total wet operation time".

For example, in FIG. 9, when the selected air volume is “strong” and the “detected humidity change rate” is as high as “+ 4%”, the “humidification mode target water retention rate” is set as low as 30% to achieve the “humidification mode target”. Since the "total wet operation time" after reaching the "water retention rate" is 15 minutes, overhumidification can be prevented. As in the conventional technique, when the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set to 100%, the "total wet operation time" after reaching the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is 120 minutes, so that the humidification is excessive. There is a risk of becoming.

On the other hand, when the "detected humidity change rate" is low, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is relatively high because the possibility of overhumidification is low even if the "total wet operation time" is prolonged. Set. For example, in FIG. 9, when the selected air volume is "strong" and the "detected humidity change rate" is as low as "-1%", if the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set to 60%, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" Since the "total wet operation time" after reaching is 60 minutes, it is not necessary to supply water for a relatively long period of time, and the water saving effect is enhanced.

When the "detected humidity change rate" is low and the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set to 100% as in the prior art, there are the following concerns. When the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set to 100%, the "total wet operation time" is 120 minutes when the selected air volume is "strong" and 240 minutes when the selected air volume is "weak". If there is a factor that affects the indoor humidity other than the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, there is a high possibility that the humidifying state will occur.

Specifically, when the operation of another humidifier exemplified by the portable humidifier is started during the period of "total wet operation time", the amount of exhalation and sweating increases as the number of occupants increases. In some cases, or when the outside air introduced by ventilation changes to high humidity due to rain, a situation of overhumidification can occur. In consideration of the above points, in the first embodiment, by setting an upper limit on the "humidification mode target water retention rate", in other words, setting an upper limit on the "whole surface wet operation time", there is a possibility of overhumidification. It is low.

Further, in order to improve the followability to indoor humidity and environmental factors other than the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment as described above, a lower "target water retention rate during humidification" is set, in other words, shorter. It is possible to set a "total wet operation time", but there are the following concerns. For example, when the water supply valve 9 constituting the water supply means 11 is turned on / off by the relay control mounted on the control device 25, the relay can be turned on / off by setting a shorter "whole surface wet operation time". It occurs frequently and can reduce the life of the relay.

Further, since the "whole surface wet operation time" is shortened after the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is reached, it becomes necessary to shorten the calculation cycle of the "detected humidity change rate" in step S47 described later. As a result, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is determined based on the instantaneous humidity change, and there is a possibility that the optimum value cannot be set. In consideration of the above points, in the first embodiment, by setting a lower limit for the "humidification mode target water retention rate", in other words, setting a lower limit for the "whole surface wet operation time", each of the water supply means 11 is configured. It is possible to prevent the life of the control device 25 that controls the parts and the water supply means 11 from being shortened. In addition, since it is not necessary to extremely shorten the calculation cycle of the "detected humidity change rate", the optimum value can be set for the "humidification mode target water retention rate" even when a momentary humidity change occurs.

In step S52, based on the "humidification mode target water retention rate" determined in step S51 and the "current water retention rate" determined in steps S17, step S46, and step S65 described later, the "humidification mode operation time" is as follows. After setting, the process returns to step S31.
When the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is less than the "current water retention rate"
Humidification mode operation time [minutes] = 0 [minutes]
age,
When the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is equal to or higher than the "current water retention rate"
Humidification mode operation time [minutes] = (humidification mode target water retention rate-current water retention rate) ÷ 10
And.

In this calculation formula, the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 in the first embodiment increases by 10% for every 1 minute of operation (1 minute of water supply) in the humidification mode. It is a determined value. The calculation method may be determined based on the properties of the humidifying element to be mounted.

Next, the operation in the humidification mode shown in FIG. 8 will be described. In step S61, after counting the "humidification mode operation timer", the process proceeds to step S62.

In step S62, it is determined whether or not the "humidification mode operation timer" has exceeded the "humidification mode operation time" set in step S52 described above. When the "humidification mode operation timer" becomes equal to or longer than the "humidification mode operation time" (step S62, Yes), the process proceeds to step S68. On the other hand, if the "humidification mode operation timer" is less than the "humidification mode operation time" (steps S62, No), the process proceeds to step S63.

In step S63, it is determined whether the detected humidity of the humidity sensor 22 is "target humidity + 5%" or more. If the detected humidity is less than "target humidity + 5%" (steps S63, No), the process proceeds to step S64. If the detected humidity is "target humidity + 5%" or more (steps S63, Yes), the process proceeds to step S68.

In step S64, the water supply valve 9 is opened while the sirocco fan 4 is rotating. As a result, water is supplied from the water supply port 10 to the water supply tank 7. Then, water is supplied to the humidifying element 17 via the water supply tank 7. When the sirocco fan 4 rotates after the water is supplied to the humidifying element 17, the air sucked from the suction port 1 passes through the humidifying element 17 in the air passage 3 and flows to the air outlet 2 and is blown into the room. When the air passes through the humidifying element 17, the water on the humidifying element 17 is vaporized, and the humidified air can be supplied to the room.

In step S64, the water supply valve 9 was opened while the sirocco fan 4 was rotating, but the sirocco fan 4 may be stopped. By stopping the sirocco fan 4, it is possible to ensure that water permeates the entire humidifying element 17 without being affected by the blowing air.

In the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, tap water containing chlorine is directly supplied to the humidifying element 17 from the water supply means 11, so that mold and germs are less likely to occur on the humidifying element 17. It has become. It is assumed that the volume of the water supply tank 7 and the density of the holes formed on the bottom surface of the water supply tank 7 are designed so as not to overflow from the water supply tank 7. Further, if the bottom surface of the water supply tank 7 is clogged and overflows, the structure for receiving the overflowed water in the drain tank 12 can prevent water leakage to the outside of the machine.

Further, the residual water of the humidifying supply water that is not retained in the humidifying element 17 flows to the drain tank 12. The residual water is drained from the drainage port 14 formed on the bottom surface of the drainage tank 12 through the drainage connection port 13 provided in the main body 6. Further, in the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, the residual water that is not retained by the humidifying element 17 does not circulate to the humidifying element 17, so that the residual water stays in the machine to cause mold and mold. Problems such as the growth of germs are unlikely to occur. Moreover, since the residual water is not reused, the karuki component is not concentrated.

In step S65, every time the "humidification mode operation timer" increases for 6 seconds, the "current water retention rate" is updated by 1%, and then the process proceeds to step S66. In this update process, the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 in the first embodiment increases by 10% every 1 minute of operation in the humidification mode (1 minute of water supply), that is, 6 seconds of operation in the humidification mode (1 minute of operation in the humidification mode). It is determined by the property that it increases by 1% every 6 seconds of water supply), but the renewal process may be determined based on the property of the humidifying element to be mounted.

In step S66, based on the "current water retention rate" determined in step S65, the "drying timer" is updated as follows, and the process proceeds to step S67.
When the "current water retention rate" is 20% or more Drying timer = 120 [minutes]-(Current water retention rate-20%) x 1.5 [minutes]
age,
When the "current water retention rate" is less than 20% Drying timer = 120 [minutes] + (20% -current water retention rate) x 3.0 [minutes]
And.
In this calculation formula, as shown in FIG. 2, when the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 in the first embodiment is 20% or more with the selected air volume "strong" and the "current water retention rate" is 20% or more, the ventilation mode is used. It is a value determined by the property that it decreases by 1% every 1.5 minutes of operation, and when the "current water retention rate" is less than 20%, it decreases by 1% every 3.0 minutes of operation in the ventilation mode. However, the calculation formula may be determined based on the properties of the humidifying element to be mounted.

In step S67, it is determined by the operating means 20 whether or not the user has stopped the humidifying device 100. If the humidifying device 100 has been stopped (step S67, Yes), the process returns to step S11. On the other hand, if the humidifying device 100 has not been stopped (steps S67, No), the process returns to step S31.

Next, when the "humidification mode operation timer" is equal to or more than the "humidification mode operation time" (step S62, Yes), or when the detected humidity is "target humidity + 5%" or more (step S63, Yes), the process proceeds to step S68 or later. The processing of is described. After changing the control mode to the ventilation mode in step S68, the process proceeds to step S69.

In step S69, the "humidification mode operation timer" is set to a clear stop (that is, the count is stopped at 0), and then the process proceeds to step S70.

In step S70, based on the "current water retention rate" determined in step S65, the "blower mode operation time" is set as follows, and then the process returns to step S31.
When the "current water retention rate" is less than "20%" Blower mode operation time [minutes] = 0 [minutes]
age,
When the "current water retention rate" is "20%" or more Blower mode operation time [minutes] = (current water retention rate -20%) x 1.5 [minutes]
And.
In this calculation formula, as shown in FIG. 2, when the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 in the first embodiment is "20%" or more, the operation in the ventilation mode is 1.5. The value is determined by the property of decreasing by 1% every minute, but the calculation formula may be determined based on the property of the humidifying element to be mounted.

As described above, in step S51, the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment determines the "humidification mode target water retention rate" based on the "detected humidity change rate" and the selected air volume determined in step S47. .. For this reason, when the "detection humidity change rate" is high, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" should be kept as small as possible, in other words, the "total wet operation time" should be as short as possible to prevent the room from becoming over-humidified. Can be prevented.

If the "detected humidity change rate" is low, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set relatively high, in other words, the "total wet operation time" is set relatively long to delay the water supply timing. The water saving effect can be enhanced.

In addition, since the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set according to the selected air volume, wasteful water supply or conversely, a part of the humidification element 17 dries, so that the bleaching component is precipitated and white powder is generated. It is possible to prevent problems such as occurrence or shortening of the life of the humidifying element 17.

Further, in step S51, as shown in FIG. 9, an upper limit is set for the "humidification mode target water retention rate", in other words, an upper limit is set for the "whole surface wet operation time". When there is a factor that affects the indoor humidity other than the humidifying device, the possibility of falling into an over-humidifying situation is suppressed. Specifically, if the operation of another humidifier is started during the "totally humid operation time", the amount of exhalation or sweating increases as the number of people in the room increases, or it is introduced by ventilation. Even when the outside air changes to high humidity due to rain or the like, the possibility of over-humidification can be suppressed because the "total wet operation time" is 60 minutes or less.

Further, by setting an upper limit on the "humidification mode target water retention rate", in the first embodiment, the drying operation time to be performed when the humidifier 100 is stopped is set to 100% from the conventional "humidification mode target water retention rate". Compared to the case where it is set, it can be reduced to less than half, and power consumption can be significantly reduced.

Further, in step S51, as shown in FIG. 9, a lower limit is set for the "humidification mode target water retention rate", in other words, a lower limit is set for the "whole surface wet operation time", so that each component constituting the water supply means 11 is provided. It is possible to prevent the life of the control device 25 that controls the water supply means 11 from being shortened. In addition, since it is not necessary to extremely shorten the calculation cycle of the "detected humidity change rate", the optimum value can be set for the "humidification mode target water retention rate" even when a momentary humidity change occurs.

Further, in step S11, when the "drying timer" is less than the "drying completion time", the operation in the ventilation mode is enabled by steps S14 to S16, so that the drying operation is performed at the stop time of the humidifying device 100. Even if this is not completed, the humidifying element 17 can be reliably completely dried while the humidifying device 100 is stopped, and the growth of mold and germs and the generation of odor can be suppressed.

In the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, various determinations may be made based on the relative humidity, or various determinations may be made based on the absolute humidity.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of a table for determining a humidification mode target water retention rate used in the humidifier according to the first embodiment. In the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, the counting method of the "drying timer" is changed in steps S16, S45 and S66 in consideration of the fluctuation of the humidifying amount due to the selected air volume shown in FIG. It was. Here, the amount of humidification also varies depending on the "difference between the dry-bulb humidity and the wet-bulb humidity" of the air passing through the humidifying element 17. Therefore, the counting method of the "drying timer" may be changed according to the "difference between the dry-bulb humidity and the wet-bulb humidity", and the "humidification mode target water retention rate" set in step S51 is shown in the table shown in FIG. It may be set according to.

Specifically, when the selected air volume is "strong" and the "difference between dry-bulb humidity and wet-bulb humidity" at which the humidification amount is 100% is "10 ° C", the selected air volume is "strong" and " When the "difference between dry-bulb humidity and wet-bulb humidity" is "5 ° C", the amount of humidification is 50%. Therefore, the count of the "drying timer" is set to 1 second every 2 seconds, and the process proceeds to step S51. The “humidity mode target water retention rate” to be set is set according to the columns of the selected air volume “strong” and “difference between dry-bulb temperature and wet-bulb temperature = 5 ° C.” according to FIG.

If the selected air volume is "weak" and the "difference between dry-bulb humidity and wet-bulb humidity" is "5 ° C", the "drying timer" counts 1 second every 4 seconds, and steps are taken. The "humidification mode target water retention rate" set in S51 is set according to the columns of the selected air volume "weak" and "difference between dry-bulb temperature and wet-bulb temperature = 5 ° C." according to FIG.

Further, the wet-bulb temperature may be provided individually with a sensor, or may be calculated from the dry-bulb temperature detected by the temperature sensor 23 and the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor 22.

It is desirable that various temperature sensors and humidity sensors for measuring or calculating the dry-bulb temperature and the wet-bulb temperature are arranged immediately before the humidifying element 17. Therefore, the sensor for detecting "indoor humidity" used in the determinations in steps S43, S47, and S63 is provided separately from the various sensors for measuring or calculating the dry-bulb temperature and the wet-bulb temperature. You may.

Further, since the characteristics of the humidifying element 17 shown in FIG. 2 may change due to aged deterioration, in each step of the control flow shown in FIGS. 3 to 8 according to the operating time of the humidifying device 100 and the like. , The specified value may be modified. For example, the drying completion time "3.0 hr" in step S11 is corrected, the calculation formula of "current water retention rate" in step S17 and the like is corrected accordingly, and the water retention rate "in a state where the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is moist". This is a correction of "20%" and a corresponding correction of "humidification mode target water retention rate" in step S51 and the like.

Further, in the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 is estimated based on the count value of the drying timer from the characteristics of the humidifying element 17 shown in FIG. A mechanism for measuring the weight of 17 may be provided to estimate the water retention rate.

Further, in the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, in step S70, the "current water retention rate" and the water retention rate "20%" in the state where the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is moist are "blower mode operation time". Is calculated, but it is not limited to this. Considering the accuracy of estimating the water retention rate of the humidifying element 17, the "blower mode operation time" is not determined aiming at the water retention rate of "20%" when the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 is moist, but the humidification is surely performed. The "blower mode operation time" may be calculated based on a value in which the entire surface of the element 17 is wet, for example, "25%". In this case, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is also set 5% higher. As a result, even if there is an error between the estimated value of the water retention rate and the actual value, a part of the humidifying element 17 does not dry, and the bleaching component is precipitated to generate white powder, or the life of the humidifying element is extended. It becomes possible to prevent the decrease.

Further, in the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, the drying completion time of 3.0 hr was set in the drying timer in step S1, but the drying timer value was set while the humidifying device 100 was turned on. It may be stored in the storage unit 16 and read from the storage unit 16 when the power is turned on.

Further, in the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, the "humidification mode operation time" is set after estimating the water retention rate of the humidification element 17, but the water retention rate of the humidification element 17 is not estimated and "detection" is performed. The "humidification mode operation time" may be set only by the "humidity change rate". Specifically, when the "detected humidity change rate" is "3.0% or more", the "humidification mode operation time" = 3 minutes, and when the "detected humidity change rate" is "1.5% or more", " Humidification mode operation time = 4 minutes, when "detection humidity change rate" is "0.0% or more", "humidification mode operation time" = 5 minutes, "detection humidity change rate" is "less than 0.0%" In the case of, "humidification mode operation time" = 6 minutes. That is, the current water retention rate of the humidifying element 17 is set to 0% for treatment.

Compared with the case of estimating the water retention rate of the humidification element 17, in the case where the water retention rate of the humidification element 17 is 0%, that is, the humidification mode is set before the humidification element 17 is completely dried, the humidification element is operated even after the "blower mode operation time". Since there is a time when the entire surface of 17 is moist, there is a high possibility that the room will be over-humidified. However, when the "detected humidity change rate" is high as compared with the conventional technique, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" Can be kept as small as possible. In other words, by shortening the "totally humid operation time" as much as possible, it is possible to prevent the room from becoming over-humidified. Further, when the "detection humidity change rate" is low, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" can be set relatively high. In other words, by setting the "total wet operation time" to be relatively long, it is possible to obtain the effect of delaying the water supply timing and enhancing the water saving effect.

Further, in the humidifying device 100 according to the first embodiment, the "humidification mode operation time" is set according to the "detected humidity change rate", but the "humidifying element" is set regardless of the "detected humidity change rate". The "humidification mode operation time" may be set only by the "water retention rate of 17". Specifically, assuming that the "detected humidity change rate" in FIG. 9 is "2.0%", the "humidification mode operation" is performed in step S52 so that the "humidification mode target water retention rate" = "40%". Set the time. Compared to the case where the "humidification mode operation time" is set according to the "detection humidity change rate", in the case where the "detection humidity change rate" is "more than 2.0%", the "blower mode operation time" is compared. Since the length of the room is long, there is a high possibility that the room will be over-humidified. Therefore, when there is a factor affecting the indoor humidity other than the humidifying device 100 described in the first embodiment, the possibility of falling into an over-humidifying situation is suppressed. Specifically, if the operation of another humidifier is started during the "totally humid operation time", the amount of exhalation or sweating increases as the number of people in the room increases, or it is introduced by ventilation. Even when the outside air changes to high humidity due to rain or the like, the possibility of over-humidification can be suppressed because the "total wet operation time" is set to 30 minutes or less.

Embodiment 2.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit 19 of the humidifying device 100 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a table for determining a humidification mode target water retention rate used in the humidifying device 100 according to the second embodiment. Regarding the same configuration as that of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted by using the same reference numerals.

The difference from the first embodiment is that when determining the "humidification mode target water retention rate", in addition to the selected air volume and the "detected humidity change rate", the indoor detected humidity is taken into consideration, and the indoor detected humidity is determined according to the indoor detected humidity. The point that the upper limit of "humidification mode target water retention rate" is variable, and when "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set to 100%, "humidification mode operation time" is set to "water retention rate" to 100%. The point is to set it longer than the required time.

The steps that are different from the above-described embodiment will be described below. As shown in FIG. 11, in step S81, after determining the “humidification mode target water retention rate” according to FIG. 12, the process proceeds to step S82.

In the determination table of the "humidification mode target water retention rate" shown in FIG. 12, when the indoor detected humidity is extremely low with respect to the target humidity, a larger value is set for the "humidification mode target water retention rate" as compared with the first embodiment. The difference is that they are set.

This is excessive even when there is a factor affecting the indoor humidity other than the humidifying device 100 described in the second embodiment, when the indoor detected humidity is extremely low with respect to the target humidity. By judging that the possibility of humidification is low and setting a larger value in the "humidification mode target water retention rate", the purpose is to delay the water supply timing and obtain a higher water saving effect.

In the case of the selected air volume "weak", the "total wet operation time" is twice as long as the selected air volume "strong" at the same "humidification mode target water retention rate". In addition to the humidifying device 100 shown by the above, it becomes more susceptible to factors that affect the indoor humidity. In consideration of this point, the conditions for raising the "humidification mode target water retention rate" are stricter than the selected air volume "strong".

Next, in step S82, as in step S52, based on the "humidification mode target water retention rate" and "current water retention rate" determined in step S81, the "humidification mode operation time" is set as follows, and then step S31. Return to.
When the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is less than the "current water retention rate" Humidification mode operation time [minutes] = 0 [minutes]
age,
When the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is equal to or higher than the "current water retention rate" Humidification mode operation time [minutes] = (humidification mode target water retention rate-current water retention rate) ÷ 10 [minutes]
And.

However,
Only when the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is "100%", the humidification mode operation time [minutes] exceeds the time required to reach the water retention rate of 100% (up to 10 minutes in the second embodiment). ] = 20 [minutes] is set.

When the humidification mode operation time [minutes] = 20 [minutes] is set, sufficient water supply is sufficient even if the concentration of the karuki component of the water retained by the humidification element 17 increases as the number of operations in the humidification mode increases. By performing the above, it is possible to wash away the calcified component or reduce the concentration of the calcified component, and it is possible to extend the life of the humidifying element 17. In the following description, the operation of supplying sufficient water to wash away the calcified components is referred to as a washing operation.

As described above, in step S81, when the indoor detected humidity is extremely low with respect to the target humidity in step S81, the humidifying device 100 according to the second embodiment has a "humidifying mode" as compared with the first embodiment. Since a large value is set for the "target water retention rate", it is possible to delay the water supply timing and obtain a higher water saving effect.

Further, in step S82, only when the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is "100%", the time required to make the water retention rate 100% in the "humidification mode operation time" (in the second embodiment). By setting 20 minutes, which exceeds (up to 10 minutes), sufficient water supply is provided even if the concentration of the karuki component of the water retained by the humidifying element 17 increases as the number of operations in the humidifying mode increases. By doing so, it is possible to wash away the calcified component or reduce the concentration of the calcified component, and it is possible to extend the life of the humidifying element 17.

In the humidifying device 100 according to the second embodiment, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" was set in consideration of the "detected humidity change rate" in FIG. 12, but the "detected humidity change rate" is significantly increased. In an environment that does not fluctuate, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" may be set only by the indoor detection humidity.

Specifically, assuming that the "detected humidity change rate" in FIG. 12 is "1.0%", when the indoor detected humidity is "target humidity less than -20%", "humidification mode target water retention rate" = 100. %, "Humidification mode target water retention rate" = 70% when indoor detection humidity is "target humidity less than -15%", "Humidification mode target water retention rate" when indoor detection humidity is "target humidity -15% or more" The same effect can be obtained even if = 50%.

Embodiment 3.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit 19 of the humidifying device 100 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a table for determining a humidification mode target water retention rate used in the humidifying device 100 according to the third embodiment. The same configurations as those of the first and second embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The difference from the first embodiment is that when determining the "humidification mode target water retention rate", in addition to the selected air volume and the "detected humidity change rate", the number of operations in the humidification mode is taken into consideration, and the humidification mode is used. If the number of operations exceeds the specified number, set the "humidification mode target water retention rate" to 100%, and if the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set to 100%, set the "humidification mode operation time". The point is to set the "water retention rate" longer than the time required to reach 100%.

The steps that are different from the above-described embodiment will be described below. As shown in FIG. 13, in step S91, the “humidification mode operation number” is set to “+1”, and then the process proceeds to step S92 through step S50.

In step S92, after determining the “humidification mode target water retention rate” according to FIG. 14, the process proceeds to step S93.

In the determination table of the "humidification mode target water retention rate" shown in FIG. 14, when the above-mentioned "humidification mode operation count" exceeds the specified number of times, the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is set to 100%. The point is different from the first embodiment.

This is because the concentration of the karuki component in the humidifying element 17 gradually increases as the number of operations in the humidifying mode increases, which may adversely affect the life of the humidifying element 17, and the cleaning operation of the humidifying element 17 is performed. It is intended to be implemented.

The specified number of times is changed according to the "detected humidity change rate". Specifically, when the "detected humidity change rate" is low, there is a higher possibility of overhumidification even if there is a factor affecting the indoor humidity other than the humidifying device 100 shown in the third embodiment. Judging that it is low, the specified number of times is reduced.

Further, in the case of the selected air volume "weak", the "total wet operation time" is twice as long as the selected air volume "strong" at the same "humidification mode target water retention rate". In addition to the humidifier shown in, it becomes more susceptible to factors that affect indoor humidity. In consideration of this point, the condition for setting the "humidification mode target water retention rate" to "100%" is stricter than the selected air volume "strong".

Next, in step S93, as in step S52, based on the "humidification mode target water retention rate" and the "current water retention rate" determined in step S92, the "humidification mode operation time" is set as follows, and then the step Return to S31.
When the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is less than the "current water retention rate" Humidification mode operation time [minutes] = 0 [minutes]
age,
When the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is equal to or higher than the "current water retention rate" Humidification mode operation time [minutes] = (humidification mode target water retention rate-current water retention rate) ÷ 10 [minutes]
And.
However, only when the "humidification mode target water retention rate" is "100%", the humidification mode operation time exceeds the time required to reach the water retention rate of 100% (up to 10 minutes in the third embodiment) [ Minutes] = 20 [minutes] is set, and the number of humidification mode operations is initialized to 0.

When the humidification mode operation time [minutes] = 20 [minutes] is set, sufficient water supply is sufficient even if the concentration of the karuki component of the water retained by the humidification element 17 increases as the number of operations in the humidification mode increases. By performing the above, it is possible to wash away the calcified component or reduce the concentration of the calcified component, and it is possible to extend the life of the humidifying element 17.

As described above, the humidifying device 100 according to the third embodiment counts the "humidification mode operation count" in step S91, and in step S92, the "humidification mode operation count" becomes the specified number or more according to FIG. In this case, since 100% is set in the "humidification mode target water retention rate", when the concentration of the karuki component of the water retained by the humidification element 17 increases as the number of operations in the humidification mode increases. However, by supplying sufficient water, it is possible to wash away the calcified component or reduce the concentration of the calcified component, and it is possible to extend the life of the humidifying element 17.

Embodiment 4.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation by the control unit 19 of the humidifying device 100 according to the fourth embodiment. The same configurations as those in the first to third embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The difference from the first embodiment is that there are factors that affect the indoor humidity other than the humidifying device 100 described in the fourth embodiment during the ventilation mode operation, and the "detected humidity change rate" due to these factors. Is fluctuating, and the air volume is changed when it is determined that the humidification is insufficient or over-humidified.

The steps that are different from the first embodiment will be described below. As shown in FIG. 15, in step S101, after performing the "air volume change determination", the process proceeds to step S44.

The "air volume change determination" in step S101 is performed as follows. When the air volume is operating at "strong", the air volume is changed to "weak" when all of the following conditions are satisfied.
[Condition 1] Detected humidity ≧ Target humidity [Condition 2] Blower mode operation time ≧ Blower mode operation timer (that is, operating with the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 wet)
[Condition 3] Detected humidity change rate x (Blower mode operation time-Blower mode operation timer)> Target humidity + 5%
In other words, if it is expected that "over-humidification" will occur when the "blower mode operation time" is reached, changing the air volume to "weak" will reduce the humidification amount by half and prevent it from becoming "over-humidification". are doing.

On the other hand, when the air volume is operating at "weak", the air volume is changed to "strong" when all of the following conditions are satisfied.
[Condition 1] Detected humidity <Target humidity [Condition 2] Blower mode operation time ≧ Blower mode operation timer (that is, operating with the entire surface of the humidifying element 17 wet)
[Condition 3] Detected humidity change rate x (Blower mode operation time-Blower mode operation timer) <Target humidity-5%
That is, if it is expected that "insufficient humidification" will occur when the "blower mode operation time" is reached, the amount of humidification will be doubled by changing the air volume to "strong" to prevent "insufficient humidification". ing.

As described above, in step S101, the humidifying device 100 according to the fourth embodiment has a factor affecting the indoor humidity other than the humidifying device 100 described in the fourth embodiment during the ventilation mode operation. , "Detected humidity change rate" fluctuates due to these effects, and it is possible to prevent insufficient humidification or over-humidification by appropriately changing the air volume when it is expected that insufficient humidification or over-humidification will occur. Become.

Note that FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the control device 25 according to the first to fourth embodiments. The control device 25 is realized by, for example, a microcomputer 33 equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 31 and a memory 32. In the microcomputer 33, the CPU 31 functions as the control unit 19 by executing the program. Further, a memory 32 such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory) functions as a storage unit 16. The program executed by the CPU 31 may be stored in the storage unit 16 or may be stored in another storage medium.

The configuration shown in the above-described embodiment shows an example of the content of the present invention, can be combined with another known technique, and is one of the configurations without departing from the gist of the present invention. It is also possible to omit or change the part.

1 suction port, 2 outlet, 3 air passage, 4 sirocco fan, 5 piping, 6 main body, 7 water supply tank, 8 water supply connection port, 9 water supply valve, 10 water supply port, 11 water supply means, 12 drainage tank, 13 drainage connection Port, 14 Drainage port, 15 Drainage means, 16 Storage unit, 17 Humidification element, 19 Control unit, 20 Operation means, 21 Air cleaning filter, 22 Humidity sensor, 23 Temperature sensor, 25 Control device, 31 CPU, 32 Memory, 33 Microcomputer, 100 humidifier.

Claims (15)

The main body with an air passage that connects the suction port and the air outlet,
An air blowing means provided in the air passage to generate an air flow from the suction port to the air outlet at the time of operation.
The humidifying element provided in the air passage and
A water supply means for supplying water to the humidifying element and
A control unit for switching between operation in a humidification mode in which water is supplied to the humidification element and operation in a ventilation mode in which water supply to the humidification element is stopped and the ventilation means is operated is provided.
The control unit sets the operation time in the humidification mode based on the indoor humidity, which is the humidity in the room to which the air blown out from the air outlet is supplied, and stops the ventilation means in the humidification mode. A characteristic humidifier. The main body with an air passage that connects the suction port and the air outlet,
An air blowing means provided in the air passage to generate an air flow from the suction port to the air outlet at the time of operation.
The humidifying element provided in the air passage and
A water supply means for supplying water to the humidifying element and
A control unit for switching between operation in a humidification mode in which water is supplied to the humidification element and operation in a ventilation mode in which water supply to the humidification element is stopped and the ventilation means is operated is provided.
The control unit sets the operation time in the humidification mode based on the rate of change of the indoor humidity, which is the humidity in the room to which the air blown out from the air outlet is supplied, and stops the ventilation means in the humidification mode. Humidifying device characterized by The main body with an air passage that connects the suction port and the air outlet,
An air blowing means provided in the air passage to generate an air flow from the suction port to the air outlet at the time of operation.
The humidifying element provided in the air passage and
A water supply means for supplying water to the humidifying element and
A control unit for switching between operation in a humidification mode in which water is supplied to the humidification element and operation in a ventilation mode in which water supply to the humidification element is stopped and the ventilation means is operated is provided.
The control unit estimates the water retention rate of the humidification element, and sets the operation time in the humidification mode based on the water retention rate of the humidification element. The control unit sets the operation time in the humidification mode based on the rate of change in the indoor humidity, which is the humidity in the room to which the air blown out from the outlet is supplied, and the water retention rate of the humidification element. The humidifying device according to claim 3. The claim is characterized in that the control unit sets the operation time in the humidification mode based on the indoor humidity, which is the humidity in the room to which the air blown out from the air outlet is supplied, and the water retention rate of the humidification element. Item 3. The humidifying device according to item 3. The humidifying device according to any one of claims 3 to 5 , wherein the control unit stops the blowing means in the humidifying mode. The control unit sets the rate of change in indoor humidity, which is the humidity in the room to which the air blown out from the air outlet, is set only when the water retention rate of the humidifying element is equal to or higher than a specified value and the blowing means is operating. The humidifying device according to any one of claims 4 to 6 , wherein the humidification device is calculated. The humidifying device according to any one of claims 3 to 7 , wherein the control unit does not operate in the humidifying mode when the water retention rate of the humidifying element is equal to or higher than a specified value. 2. The control unit is characterized in that the higher the rate of change in the indoor humidity, which is the humidity in the room to which the air blown out from the outlet is supplied, the shorter the operating time in the humidification mode is. The humidifying device according to any one of claims 4 to 8. Any of claims 3 to 9 , wherein the control unit sets an upper limit on a target water retention rate, which is a target of the water retention rate of the humidification element, and then sets an operation time in the humidification mode. The humidifying device according to one. Any of claims 3 to 10 , wherein the control unit sets an operation time in the humidification mode after setting a lower limit on the target water retention rate, which is a target of the water retention rate of the humidification element. The humidifying device according to one. The control unit is characterized in that the upper limit value of the target water retention rate, which is the target of the water retention rate of the humidifying element, is changed based on the indoor humidity, which is the humidity in the room to which the air blown out from the outlet is supplied. The humidifying device according to claim 10 or 11. The control unit stores the number of operations in the humidification mode, and when the number of operations exceeds the specified number, sets the target water retention rate, which is the target of the water retention rate of the humidification element, to 100%. The humidifying device according to any one of claims 3 to 12, wherein the humidifying device is characterized. When the target water retention rate is set to 100%, the control unit is characterized by performing a washing operation in which water is supplied for more than the minimum time required to make the water retention rate of the humidifying element 100%. The humidifying device according to claim 12 or 13. When operating in the air blowing mode, the control unit changes the air volume of the air blowing means based on the rate of change of the indoor humidity, which is the indoor humidity to which the air blown from the air outlet is supplied, and the indoor humidity. The humidifying device according to any one of claims 5 to 14, wherein the humidifying device is characterized.

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