JP7584982B2 - Humidification filter unit and humidification device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a humidifying filter unit and a humidifying device.

The humidifying device described in Patent Document 1 includes a humidifying structure, an air blowing means, and a water supplying means. The humidifying structure humidifies air. The humidifying structure is disk-shaped. The air blowing means blows air toward the humidifying structure. The water supplying means supplies water to the humidifying structure. The water supplying means is a ladle. The ladle is arranged along the outer peripheral side surface of the humidifying structure.

JP 2005-282980 A

However, in the humidifier described in Patent Document 1, the ladle is attached to the outer peripheral side of the humidifying structure, so the outer diameter of the humidifying filter unit, like the humidifying structure, becomes large. Therefore, depending on the size of the product, it may not be possible to install the humidifying filter unit. In other words, the freedom of product design is reduced.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above problems, and aims to provide a humidifying filter unit and a humidifier that can improve the freedom of product design.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the humidifying filter unit is rotatable around a rotation axis. The humidifying filter unit includes a humidifying filter, a supply unit, and a holding unit. The humidifying filter absorbs water from a water tank and passes air through it. The supply unit draws up the water from the water tank and supplies the water to the humidifying filter. The holding unit holds the humidifying filter and the supply unit. The holding unit includes a frame and a storage unit. The frame is circular. The storage unit is non-circular and stores the supply unit. The humidifying filter is non-circular and is disposed inside the frame. The storage unit is disposed inside the frame at a position different from the humidifying filter.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a humidifier includes the above-mentioned humidifying filter unit, a water tank, and a detection unit. The water tank stores water. The detection unit detects the detected member.

The humidifying filter unit and humidifier of the present invention allow for greater freedom in product design.

1 is a diagram showing a humidifier according to a first embodiment of the present invention; 2 is a cross-sectional view of the humidifier taken along line II-II in FIG. 1. 2 is an enlarged view of a humidifying filter unit of the humidifier shown in FIG. 1 . FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a supply unit of the humidifier according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a humidifying filter unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a humidifying filter unit of a humidifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a humidifying filter unit according to a second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a humidifying filter unit according to a third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a humidifying filter unit according to a first modified example of the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a humidifying filter unit according to a second modified example of the third embodiment.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts will be denoted by the same reference symbols and description will not be repeated. In addition, for ease of explanation, a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system (X, Y, Z) is appropriately depicted in the drawings. In the drawings, the X-axis and Y-axis are parallel to the horizontal direction, and the Z-axis is parallel to the vertical direction.

[Embodiment 1]
A humidifier 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. First, the humidifier 100 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. The humidifier 100 humidifies air by an evaporation method.

Figure 1 is a diagram showing a humidifier 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the humidifier 100 includes a housing 1 and an operation panel 3. The housing 1 has, for example, a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The operation panel 3 is disposed on the top surface 1a of the housing 1. The operation panel 3 receives inputs for operating the humidifier 100 and notifies the user of the status of the humidifier 100. The humidifier 100 has an air outlet 5 for blowing out air. The air outlet 5 is disposed on the top surface 1a of the housing 1.

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Figure 1. Figure 2 shows a side cross-sectional view of the humidifier 100. In Figure 2, the air flow is indicated by white arrows. Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the humidifier filter unit 13 of the humidifier 100 shown in Figure 1.

As shown in FIG. 2, the humidifier 100 further includes a deodorizing filter 9, a dust collecting filter 11, a humidifying filter unit 13, a rotating shaft 15, a pair of shaft supports 17, a water tank 19, a drive mechanism 21, a blower 23, and a detector 30. The housing 1 houses the deodorizing filter 9, the dust collecting filter 11, the humidifying filter unit 13, the rotating shaft 15, a pair of shaft supports 17, a water tank 19, a drive mechanism 21, a blower 23, and a detector 30. The humidifier 100 also has a plurality of intake ports 7 for drawing in air. The intake ports 7 are located on the rear surface 1b of the housing 1.

As shown in FIG. 2, the detection unit 30 detects the rotational position of the humidifying filter unit 13. Specifically, the detection unit 30 detects the rotation of the humidifying filter unit 13 by detecting a detectable member described below. In this embodiment, the detection unit 30 is a Hall element that detects magnetism. The Hall element outputs a signal indicating the approach of a magnet that generates magnetism at a time interval corresponding to the rotational speed of the humidifying filter unit 13. The detection unit 30 is attached to the side of the storage unit that stores the water tank 19.

The blower 23 takes in air through the multiple intake ports 7. The blower 23 then blows out the air through the outlet port 5. Therefore, inside the housing 1, an air passage PS is formed that connects the multiple intake ports 7 and the outlet port 5. Specifically, the blower 23 includes a fan 23a and a fan motor 23b. The fan motor 23b drives the fan 23a to rotate it.

The deodorizing filter 9 adsorbs odorous components in the air. The odorous components are, for example, acetaldehyde, ammonia, or acetic acid. The deodorizing filter 9 is disposed opposite the multiple intake ports 7. The deodorizing filter 9 has, for example, a structure in which activated carbon is dispersed in a nonwoven fabric, and adsorbs or removes odorous components in the air.

The dust collection filter 11 captures or removes fine dust particles in the air. The dust collection filter 11 is disposed opposite the multiple intake ports 7 via the deodorizing filter 9. The dust collection filter 11 is, for example, a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter.

The humidifying filter unit 13 is disposed on the air passage PS and is rotatable about a rotation axis AX. As shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the humidifying filter unit 13 includes a holding portion 131, a humidifying filter 133, a supply portion 140, and a detected member 301.

The detected member 301 is detected by the detection unit 30. The detected member 301 is a magnet. The detected member 301 is held by the holding unit 131. The detected member 301 is placed at approximately the same position as the supply unit 140 is placed.

The holding part 131 holds the humidifying filter 133 and the supply part 140. The holding part 131 has a generally disk shape and is made of, for example, synthetic resin.

The humidifying filter 133 is disposed downstream of the air flow in the air passage PS from the air inlet 7, the deodorizing filter 9, and the dust collection filter 11. Specifically, the humidifying filter 133 is disposed between the blower 23 and the air inlet 7.

The supply unit 140 supplies water to the humidification filter 133.

The water tank 19 is disposed at the bottom of the housing 1 in correspondence with the humidifying filter 133. The water tank 19 stores water W to be supplied to the humidifying filter 133. The water tank 19 is made of, for example, synthetic resin. A portion of the humidifying filter 133 is located within the water tank 19 and is immersed in the water W of the water tank 19. Specifically, when water W of a predetermined water level LV is stored in the water tank 19, a portion of the humidifying filter 133 is located within the water tank 19 and is immersed in the water W of the water tank 19.

The rotating shaft 15 passes through the humidifying filter unit 13. The rotating shaft 15 is fixed to the center of rotation of the humidifying filter unit 13. Specifically, the rotating shaft 15 is fixed to the center of rotation of the holding portion 131. In other words, the rotating shaft 15 is disposed on the rotation axis AX. The rotating shaft 15 has a generally cylindrical shape.

The pair of shaft support parts 17 support the rotating shaft 15 so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis AX. In other words, the pair of shaft support parts 17 support the humidifying filter unit 13 via the rotating shaft 15 so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis AX.

Specifically, the pair of shaft support parts 17 extend upward from the upper parts of a pair of side walls of the water tank 19. Each of the pair of shaft support parts 17 includes, for example, a U-shaped or circular support 17a. The pair of supports 17a support the rotating shaft 15 so that it can rotate freely. The supports 17a may be, for example, bearings.

The rotating shaft 15 may be fixed to a pair of shaft support parts 17. In this case, the rotating shaft 15 supports the humidifying filter unit 13 so that it can rotate freely around the rotation axis AX. In other words, the rotating shaft 15 supports the holding part 131 so that it can rotate freely. In this case, it is preferable that the holding part 131 has a bearing at the center of rotation.

The drive mechanism 21 contacts the peripheral portion of the humidifying filter unit 13 to rotate the humidifying filter unit 13. Specifically, the drive mechanism 21 includes a drive gear 21a and a motor 21b. The rotation axis of the drive gear 21a is approximately parallel to the rotation axis line AX. The motor 21b drives the drive gear 21a to rotate the drive gear 21a.

On the other hand, the holding portion 131 includes a circular frame body 131a and a ring gear 131x. The ring gear 131x is formed circumferentially on the outer peripheral surface 1311 of the frame body 131a. The drive gear 21a meshes with the ring gear 131x. Therefore, when the drive gear 21a is rotated by the motor 21b, the holding portion 131 rotates around the rotation axis AX. As a result, the humidifying filter 133 rotates around the rotation axis AX together with the holding portion 131. In other words, when the drive gear 21a is rotated by the motor 21b, the humidifying filter unit 13 rotates around the rotation axis AX.

The drive mechanism 21 may include a roller instead of the drive gear 21a. As long as the humidifying filter unit 13 can rotate about the rotation axis AX, the humidifying device 100 does not need to include a rotation shaft 15. For example, multiple rotating bodies may be arranged in the water tank 19, and the multiple rotating bodies may rotatably support the humidifying filter unit 13.

Continuing to refer to Figures 2 and 3, the humidifying filter unit 13 will be described in detail.

As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the holding portion 131 includes a frame body 131a, a shaft insertion portion 131d, and a storage portion 131e.

The frame body 131a has a circular shape. The frame body 131a covers the edge EG1 of the humidifying filter 133 and is positioned outside the humidifying filter 133. The frame body 131a also covers the edge EG3 of the supply unit 140 and is positioned outside the edge EG3 of the supply unit 140. In other words, the frame body 131a holds the humidifying filter 133. The frame body 131a is positioned outside the first holding portion and the second holding portion.

The frame body 131a includes a plurality of first reinforcing members 131b, a second reinforcing member 131c, and an axis insertion portion 131d. The plurality of first reinforcing members 131b extend radially from the axis insertion portion 131d and are connected to the frame body 131a. As a result, the frame body 131a is reinforced by the plurality of first reinforcing members 131b.

The second reinforcing member 131c has a generally annular shape and connects the multiple first reinforcing members 131b. As a result, the multiple first reinforcing members 131b are reinforced by the second reinforcing member 131c.

The shaft insertion portion 131d has a generally cylindrical shape and is inserted into the through-hole 133c of the humidifying filter 133. The rotating shaft 15 (FIG. 2) is inserted into the shaft insertion portion 131d. In this embodiment, the rotating shaft 15 is fixed to the shaft insertion portion 131d. Note that the rotating shaft 15 may not be fixed to the shaft insertion portion 131d, and the shaft insertion portion 131d may have a bearing.

The storage section 131e stores the supply section 140. The storage section 131e has a non-circular shape. In this embodiment, the storage section 131e has an approximately D-shape when viewed from the front. In this embodiment, the front view indicates that the object is viewed from the direction in which the rotation axis AX (Figure 2) extends. Specifically, with respect to the shape of the storage section 131e, the "non-circular shape" includes straight lines and curved lines. In other words, the storage section 131e has an approximately flat plate shape and an approximately arch shape. When the humidifier 100 is not driven, the storage section 131e is arranged in a position to be stored in the water tank 19 (Figure 2). As a result, when the humidifier 100 is not driven, the humidifying filter 133 is not immersed in the water W. The supply section 140 and the detected member 301 are arranged in the storage section 131e. The storage section 13e is located inside the frame 131a, in a different position from the humidifying filter 133.

The humidifying filter 133 is water absorbent and breathable. In other words, the humidifying filter 133 absorbs water from the water tank 19 and allows air to pass through. When air passes through the humidifying filter 133 that has absorbed water, the air is humidified. In other words, the humidifying filter 133 functions as an evaporation filter. The humidifying filter 133 is disposed inside the frame 131a.

As shown in FIG. 3, the humidifying filter 133 is disposed around the rotation axis AX (FIG. 2). The humidifying filter 133 rotates about the rotation axis AX. A portion of the humidifying filter 133 is immersed in the water W of the water tank 19. The blower 23 blows air from the room in which the humidifying device 100 is installed to the water-absorbed humidifying filter 133 through the intake port 7. As a result, the water absorbed in the humidifying filter 133 vaporizes. The blower 23 then blows the air containing the vaporized water through the exhaust port 5 toward the room in which the humidifying device 100 is installed. As a result, the air in the room is humidified.

In this embodiment, the humidifying filter 133 has a pleated structure. Specifically, the humidifying filter 133 has a shape in which a sheet material is folded in an accordion-like shape. That is, the humidifying filter 133 has a zigzag shape in a side cross-sectional view. As a result, the surface area of the humidifying filter 133 increases, and the water content increases. In this embodiment, the side cross-sectional view indicates a cross-section of the target object viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation AX (FIG. 2) and parallel to the horizontal direction. Note that the humidifying filter 133 does not have to be bellows-shaped and can have other shapes as long as it has water absorption and ventilation properties. For example, the humidifying filter 133 may have a honeycomb structure.

The shape of the humidifying filter 133 is non-circular. In this embodiment, the humidifying filter 133 has a substantially D-shape when viewed from the front. With respect to the shape of the humidifying filter 133, a "circular shape" includes straight lines and curved lines. In other words, the circular shape may be substantially a perfect circle or substantially an ellipse, as long as it includes straight lines and curved lines.

When edge EG1 on the curved side of humidifying filter 133 is located at the lowest position, edge EG1 is immersed in the water W of the aquarium 19. In other words, humidifying filter 133 absorbs water. When edge EG2 on the straight side of humidifying filter 133 is located at the lowest position and is approximately parallel to the water surface of the aquarium 19, edge EG2 is not immersed in the water W of the aquarium 19. In other words, humidifying filter 133 does not absorb water.

Specifically, the humidifier 100 is in a non-operated state when the detection unit 30 is in a position where it detects the detected member 301. When the humidifier 100 is in a non-operated state, the supply unit 140 is positioned in a position where it is housed in the water tank 19 (Figure 2). As a result, when the humidifier 100 is in a non-operated state, the humidifying filter 133 is not immersed in the water W and is not humidified.

The supply unit 140 draws up water from the water tank 19 and supplies it to the humidifying filter 133. The humidifying filter 133 not only absorbs water stored in the water tank 19, but is also supplied with water from the supply unit 140. As shown in FIG. 3, the supply unit 140 is held in the holding unit 131 together with the humidifying filter 133. Specifically, the supply unit 140 is housed inside the housing unit 131e. Therefore, the supply unit 140 and the humidifying filter 133 can be arranged in the holding unit 131 without increasing the outer diameter of the holding unit 131. In other words, the supply unit 140 can be arranged on the humidifying filter 133 using space that would not normally be used for humidification. As a result, the degree of freedom in product design can be improved.

The storage section 131e also stores the detected member 301. The supply section 140, the humidifying filter 133, and the detected member 301 are arranged inside the outer edge of the holding section 131. Therefore, the supply section 140, the humidifying filter 133, and the detected member 301 can be arranged in the holding section 131 without increasing the outer diameter of the holding section 131. In other words, the supply section 140 and the detected member 301 can be arranged in the empty space of the storage section 131e. Therefore, it becomes easy to arrange the supply section 140 and the detected member 301 in products of various sizes. As a result, the freedom of design of the product can be improved. Furthermore, since the detected member 301 is arranged in the storage section 131e, the rotation of the humidifying filter unit 13 can be stopped at the position where the storage section 131e enters the water tank 19. Therefore, when humidification is not performed, the humidifying filter 133 does not absorb water, and humidification can be reduced.

Next, the supply unit 140 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the supply unit 140.

The shape of the supply unit 140 includes a portion of a substantially circular shape. In this embodiment, the supply unit 140 has a substantially D-shape when viewed from the front. With respect to the shape of the supply unit 140, a "circular shape" includes straight lines and curved lines. In other words, the circular shape may be a substantially perfect circle or a substantially elliptical shape, as long as it includes straight lines and curved lines.

When the curved edge EG3 of the supply unit 140 is in the lowest position, the edge EG3 is immersed in the water W of the water tank 19. In other words, when the curved edge EG3 of the supply unit 140 is in the lowest position, the supply unit 140 pumps up water. When the straight edge EG4 of the supply unit 140 is in the highest position and is approximately parallel to the water surface of the water tank 19, the supply unit 140 supplies water to the humidifying filter 133.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the supply unit 140 includes a storage unit 141, a pumping port 145, a discharge port 144, and a switching unit 142.

The storage section 141 stores the water pumped up from the pumping port 145. The storage section 141 is cylindrical with one open end and the other closed. The storage section 141 has a first side plate 241, a second side plate 242, a third side plate 243, a fourth side plate 244, and a flange portion 245. The first side plate 241 and the third side plate 243 have sides that extend along the edge EG3 of the supply section 140. The second side plate 242 has a surface that extends along the edge EG3 of the supply section 140. The fourth side plate 244 has a surface that extends along the edge EG4 of the supply section 140. The flange portion 245 extends from the first side plate 241, the second side plate 242, the third side plate 243, and the fourth side plate 244. The flange portion 245 surrounds the opening 143.

The outlet 144 discharges water from the storage section 141. As shown in FIG. 3, the outlet 144 faces the humidifying filter 133. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, when the edge EG4 on the straight side of the supply section 140 is located at the uppermost position and is approximately parallel to the water surface of the water tank 19, the outlet 144 discharges water. The discharged water is absorbed by the humidifying filter 133. In other words, water is supplied to the humidifying filter 133. That is, the humidifying filter 133 not only absorbs water from the water tank 19, but also absorbs water discharged from the outlet 144. As a result, the humidifying filter 133 can be prevented from drying out excessively.

The pumping port 145 pumps up water from the water tank 19. Specifically, when the supply unit 140 is located inside the water tank 19, the pumping port 145 pumps up water from the water tank 19. As shown in FIG. 3, the pumping port 145 is positioned radially outward from the discharge port 144 with respect to the rotation axis AX. In other words, the pumping port 145 is positioned inside the holding unit 131 and near the outer edge of the holding unit 131. Therefore, when the pumping port 145 is located inside the water tank 19, the pumping port 145 is positioned near the bottom of the water tank 19. As a result, even if the water level in the water tank 19 drops, the pumping port 145 can pump up water from the water tank 19.

The switching unit 142 switches the state of the storage unit 141 between a state in which the storage unit 141 and the discharge port 144 are in communication with each other and a state in which the storage unit 141 and the discharge port 144 are not in communication with each other. When the storage unit 141 and the discharge port 144 are in communication with each other, the water stored in the storage unit 141 is discharged from the discharge port 144. When the storage unit 141 and the discharge port 144 are not in communication with each other, the water stored in the storage unit 141 is not discharged from the discharge port 144. In other words, the switching unit 142 switches between a state in which the supply unit 140 supplies water to the humidifying filter 133 and a state in which the supply unit 140 does not supply water to the humidifying filter 133. For example, when the supply unit 140 is located at the uppermost position, the switching unit 142 can switch the supply unit 140 to a state in which the storage unit 141 and the discharge port 144 are in communication with each other. In other words, the water stored in the storage section 141 is prevented from being discharged from the outlet 144 until the supply section 140 is positioned at the uppermost position. Therefore, water can be discharged from the outlet 144 to the humidifying filter 133 at a position suitable for supplying water to the humidifying filter 133. As a result, excessive drying of the humidifying filter 133 can be further suppressed.

The switching unit 142 has a rotating shaft 142A and a rotating plate 142B. The rotating shaft 242A rotatably supports the rotating plate 142B. The end of the rotating shaft 142A is fixed to the holding unit 131.

The rotating plate 142B rotates around the axis of rotation of the rotating shaft 142A. Specifically, the rotating plate 142B rotates in a direction approaching the opening 143 and in a direction moving away from the opening 143.

When the rotating plate 142B rotates in a direction approaching the opening 143, the discharge opening 144 becomes narrower. When the rotating plate 142B rotates in a direction away from the opening 143, the discharge opening 144 becomes wider. Note that when the rotating plate 142B rotates in a direction approaching the opening 143 and the rotating plate 142B and the opening 143 come into contact, the opening 143 may be closed.

Next, the humidifying filter unit 13 of the first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 3 to 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the humidifying filter unit 13 of the first embodiment. Fig. 5 shows the operation of the supply unit 140 up to the point where the pumped water is supplied to the humidifying filter 133. As shown in Fig. 5, the drive mechanism 21 of the first embodiment rotates the humidifying filter unit 13 in the first rotation direction R1. In addition, the opening 143 of the storage unit 141 is open toward the first rotation direction R1.

Figure 5 shows the first rotation state RA, the second rotation state RB, and the third rotation state RC of the humidifying filter unit 13. The first rotation state RA is a state in which the supply section 140 is located inside the water tank 19 (see Figure 3). In the first rotation state RA, water from the water tank 19 (see Figure 3) flows into the storage section 141 from the pumping port 145.

In the first rotation state RA, the switching unit 142 receives water pressure in the direction opposite to the first rotation direction R1. Therefore, the switching unit 142 switches the state of the storage unit 141 to a state in which the storage unit 141 and the outlet 144 are not in communication. Also, in the first rotation state RA, the humidifying filter 133 is not located inside the water tank 19 (see FIG. 3).

The second rotation state RB indicates a state in which the holding portion 131 has rotated a predetermined angle in the first rotation direction R1 from the first rotation state RA. The second rotation state RB is a state in which the supply portion 140 is located outside the water tank 19. In the second rotation state RB, the storage portion 141 is located outside the water tank 19, and water is stored in the storage portion 141.

In the second rotation state RB, the switching unit 142 maintains a state in which the storage unit 141 and the outlet 144 are not in communication. The switching unit 142 comes into contact with the outlet 144 due to the surface tension of the water adhering to the outlet 144. Specifically, the rotating plate 142B comes into contact with the flange portion 245 due to the surface tension of the water adhering to the outlet 144. Also, in the second rotation state RB, a part of the humidifying filter 133 is located inside the water tank 19 (see FIG. 3). That is, in the second rotation state RB, the humidifying filter 133 absorbs water from the water tank 19.

The third rotation state RC indicates a state in which the holding portion 131 has rotated a predetermined angle in the first rotation direction R1 from the second rotation state RB. The third rotation state RC is a state in which the supply portion 140 is located outside the water tank 19, and the supply portion 140 supplies water to the humidifying filter 133. In the third rotation state RC, the switching portion 142 switches the state of the storage portion 141 to a state in which the storage portion 141 and the exhaust port 144 are in communication.

Specifically, in the third rotation state RC, the water stored in the storage section 141 presses the switching section 142 in the first rotation direction R1. Then, the switching section 142 switches the state of the supply section 140 from a state in which the storage section 141 and the outlet 144 are not in communication to a state in which the storage section 141 and the outlet 144 are in communication. Therefore, the water stored in the storage section 141 is discharged from the outlet 144. As a result, water is supplied to the humidification filter 133.

Furthermore, in the third rotation state RC, a portion of the humidifying filter 133 is located inside the water tank 19 (see FIG. 3). That is, in the third rotation state RC, the humidifying filter 133 absorbs water from the water tank 19. Therefore, water is supplied to the humidifying filter 133 from the supply unit 140, and the humidifying filter 133 is able to absorb water from the water tank 19 as well. As a result, the humidifying filter 133 can be prevented from drying out.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, a humidifying filter unit 13 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2, 6, and 7. The humidifying filter unit 13 according to the second embodiment differs from the humidifying filter unit 13 according to the first embodiment in that the humidifying filter unit 13 according to the second embodiment has a plurality of storage sections 141. Below, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, and descriptions of parts that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted.

Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the humidifying filter unit 13 of the humidifying device 100 of embodiment 2. As shown in Figure 6, the humidifying filter 133 is arranged around the rotation axis AX (Figure 2).

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the humidifier 100 of the second embodiment includes a housing 1, an operation panel 3, a deodorizing filter 9, a dust collecting filter 11, a humidifying filter unit 13, a rotating shaft 15, a pair of shaft supports 17, a water tank 19, a drive mechanism 21, a blower 23, and a detector 30. The housing 1 houses the deodorizing filter 9, the dust collecting filter 11, the humidifying filter unit 13, the rotating shaft 15, a pair of shaft supports 17, the water tank 19, the drive mechanism 21, the blower 23, and the detector 30.

The drive mechanism 21 contacts the peripheral portion of the humidifying filter unit 13 to rotate the humidifying filter unit 13. The drive mechanism 21 of the second embodiment rotates the humidifying filter unit 13 in a first rotation direction R1 and a second rotation direction R2. The second rotation direction R2 is the opposite direction to the first rotation direction R1.

The holding portion 131 of the humidifying filter unit 13 holds the humidifying filter 133 and the supply portion 140. The holding portion 131 of the second embodiment rotates in a first rotation direction R1 and a second rotation direction R2.

The supply unit 140 pumps water from the water tank 19 and supplies the water to the humidifying filter 133. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the supply unit 140 includes a first storage unit 141A, a second storage unit 141B, a pumping port 145, a discharge port 144, and a switching unit 142.

The first storage section 141A stores the water pumped up from the pumping port 145. The first storage section 141A is cylindrical with one open end and the other closed. The first storage section 141A has an opening 143A that opens toward the first rotation direction R1. When the holding section 131 rotates in the first rotation direction R1, the first storage section 141A stores the water that flows in from the pumping port 145.

The second storage section 141B stores the water pumped up from the pumping port 145. The second storage section 141B is cylindrical with one open end and the other closed. The second storage section 141B has an opening 143B that opens toward the second rotation direction R2. When the holding section 131 rotates in the second rotation direction R2, the second storage section 141B stores the water that flows in from the pumping port 145.

In other words, when the holding portion 131 rotates in the first rotation direction R1, water can be stored in the first storage portion 141A, and when the holding portion 131 rotates in the second rotation direction R2, water can be stored in the second storage portion 141B. Therefore, whether the holding portion 131 rotates in the first rotation direction R1 or the second rotation direction R2, water pumped up from the water tank 19 can be stored. Therefore, whether the holding portion 131 rotates in the first rotation direction R1 or the second rotation direction R2, water can be supplied to the humidifying filter 133. As a result, the humidifying filter 133 can be further prevented from drying out.

In addition, excessive supply of water to the humidifying filter 133 can be prevented. For example, when the holding portion 131 rotates in the first rotation direction R1, water is stored in the first storage portion 141A, and water is not stored in the second storage portion 141B. Because the opening 143B of the second storage portion 141B opens toward the second rotation direction R2, when the holding portion 131 rotates in the first rotation direction R1 and the supply portion 140 is positioned outside the water tank 19, the water that has flowed into the second storage portion 141B returns to the water tank 19.

For example, when the holding portion 131 rotates in the second rotation direction R2, water is stored in the second storage portion 141B, and water is not stored in the first storage portion 141A. Because the opening 143A of the first storage portion 141A opens toward the first rotation direction R1, when the holding portion 131 rotates in the second rotation direction R2 and the supply portion 140 is positioned outside the water tank 19, the water that has flowed into the first storage portion 141A returns to the water tank 19.

As shown in FIG. 6, in the second embodiment, the opening 143A of the first storage section 141A and the opening 143B of the second storage section 141B face each other. Therefore, when the holding section 131 stops at a position where the detection section 30 detects the detected member 301, water W is stored in each of the first storage section 141A and the second storage section 141B. In other words, when the drive mechanism 21 resumes rotation of the holding section 131, water can be immediately supplied to the humidifying filter 133 regardless of whether the holding section 131 rotates in the first rotation direction R1 or the second rotation direction R2. As a result, it becomes easier to moisten the humidifying filter 133.

The outlet 144 discharges the water from the first storage section 141A or the water from the second storage section 141B. The outlet 144 faces the humidifying filter 133. The water discharged from the outlet 144 is absorbed by the humidifying filter 133. The outlet 144 is disposed between the first storage section 141A and the second storage section 141B.

The pumping port 145 pumps up water from the water tank 19. The pumped up water flows into the first storage section 141A and the second storage section 141B. Specifically, water flows from the water tank 19 through the pumping port 145 into the first storage section 141A and the second storage section 141B. The pumping port 145 is disposed between the first storage section 141A and the second storage section 141B.

As shown in FIG. 6, a detectable member 301 is placed at the position of the pumping port 145. The driving mechanism 21 stops driving at a position where the detection unit 30 detects the detectable member 301. In other words, the driving mechanism 21 stops driving at a position where the pumping port 145 faces the bottom of the water tank 19, and the pumping port 145 is located below the water level of the water tank 19. This makes it easy for water to flow from the pumping port 145 into the first storage section 141A and the second storage section 141B. The flow of water into the first storage section 141A and the second storage section 141B continues until the water level reaches the same as the water level of the water tank 19.

The switching unit 142 switches between the state of the first storage unit 141A and the state of the second storage unit 141B in response to the rotation of the holding unit 131. Specifically, the switching unit 142 switches between the state of the first storage unit 141A and the state of the second storage unit 141B between a first state and a second state. The first state indicates a state in which the opening 143A of the first storage unit 141A and the discharge port 144 are in communication, and the opening 143B of the second storage unit 141B and the discharge port 144 are not in communication. The second state indicates a state in which the opening 143B of the second storage unit 141B and the discharge port 144 are in communication, and the opening 143A of the first storage unit 141A and the discharge port 144 are not in communication.

Therefore, in response to the rotation of the holding portion 131, the switching portion 142 switches between the first state and the second state, and water can be transported to a position where it can be supplied to the humidifying filter 133. The transported water can then be supplied to the humidifying filter 133. As a result, a sufficient amount of water can be supplied to the humidifying filter 133 while preventing a decrease in the amount of water supplied to the humidifying filter 133. In addition, water discharged from the supply portion 140 does not flow into the opposing storage portion 141, and the water in the storage portion 141 can be supplied to the humidifying filter 133.

For example, when rotating in the first rotation direction R1, the switching unit 142 switches the state of the first storage unit 141A and the state of the second storage unit 141B to the second state, thereby preventing the water stored in the first storage unit 141A from leaking and reducing the amount of water supplied to the humidifying filter 133. Furthermore, for example, the switching unit 142 switches the state of the first storage unit 141A and the state of the second storage unit 141B to the first state, thereby allowing the water stored in the first storage unit 141A to be supplied to the humidifying filter 133.

For example, when rotating in the second rotation direction R2, the switching unit 142 switches the state of the first storage unit 141A and the state of the second storage unit 141B to the first state, thereby preventing the water stored in the second storage unit 141B from leaking and reducing the amount of water supplied to the humidifying filter 133. Furthermore, for example, the switching unit 142 switches the state of the first storage unit 141A and the state of the second storage unit 141B to the second state, thereby allowing the water stored in the second storage unit 141B to be supplied to the humidifying filter 133.

As shown in FIG. 6, the switching unit 142 is disposed at the position of the pumping port 145. Specifically, the switching unit 142 is disposed between the first storage unit 141A and the second storage unit 141B.

Next, the humidifying filter unit 13 of the second embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 6 and 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the humidifying filter unit 13 of the second embodiment. Fig. 7 shows the operation of the supply unit 140 up to the point where the pumped water is supplied to the humidifying filter 133. In Fig. 7, the drive mechanism 21 rotates the humidifying filter unit 13 in a first rotation direction R1. The drive mechanism 21 of the second embodiment is capable of rotating the holding unit 131 in the first rotation direction R1 and the second rotation direction R2, but the case where the drive mechanism 21 rotates in the first rotation direction R1 will be described as an example.

7 shows the first rotation state RA, the second rotation state RB, and the third rotation state RC of the humidifying filter unit 13. The first rotation state RA is a state in which the supply unit 140 is located inside the water tank 19 (see FIG. 6). Water pumped up from the pumping port 145 enters the first storage unit 141A and the second storage unit 141B. In the first rotation state RA, the switching unit 142 receives water pressure in the direction opposite to the first rotation direction R1. Therefore, the switching unit 142 switches the state of the first storage unit 141A and the state of the second storage unit 141B to the second state. In other words, the switching unit 142 switches to a state in which the opening 143B of the second storage unit 141B and the outlet 144 are connected, and the opening 143A of the first storage unit 141A and the outlet 144 are not connected. Also, in the first rotation state RA, the humidifying filter 133 is not located inside the water tank 19 (see Figure 6).

The second rotation state RB indicates a state in which the holding portion 131 has rotated a predetermined angle in the first rotation direction R1 from the first rotation state RA. The second rotation state RB is a state in which the first storage portion 141A and the second storage portion 141B are located outside the water tank 19. Water is stored in the first storage portion 141A. Water is not stored in the second storage portion 141B. Since the opening 143B of the second storage portion 141B opens toward the second rotation direction R2, when the second rotation state RB is reached, the water in the second storage portion 141B returns to the water tank 19. In the second rotation state RB, the switching portion 142 maintains the second state. Also, in the second rotation state RB, a part of the humidifying filter 133 is located inside the water tank 19 (see FIG. 3). In other words, in the second rotation state RB, the humidifying filter 133 absorbs water from the water tank 19.

The third rotation state RC indicates a state in which the holding portion 131 has rotated a predetermined angle in the first rotation direction R1 from the second rotation state RB. The third rotation state RC is a state in which the supply portion 140 is located outside the water tank 19, and the supply portion 140 supplies water to the humidifying filter 133. In the third rotation state RC, the switching portion 142 switches the state of the first storage portion 141A and the state of the second storage portion 141B to the first state. In other words, the switching portion 142 switches to a state in which the opening 143A of the first storage portion 141A is connected to the discharge port 144 and the opening 143B of the second storage portion 141B is not connected to the discharge port 144.

Specifically, in the third rotation state RC, the water stored in the first storage section 141A presses the switching section 142 in the first rotation direction R1. Then, the switching section 142 switches between the state of the first storage section 141A and the state of the second storage section 141B to the first state. Therefore, the water stored in the first storage section 141A is discharged from the outlet 144. As a result, water is supplied to the humidifying filter 133.

Furthermore, in the third rotation state RC, a portion of the humidifying filter 133 is located inside the water tank 19 (see FIG. 3). That is, in the third rotation state RC, the humidifying filter 133 absorbs water from the water tank 19. Therefore, water is supplied to the humidifying filter 133 from the supply unit 140, and the humidifying filter 133 is able to absorb water from the water tank 19. As a result, the humidifying filter 133 can be prevented from drying out.

When the holding portion 131 rotates in the second rotation direction R2, the movement of the switching portion 142 to switch between the first state and the second state is reversed.

[Embodiment 3]
Next, a humidifying filter unit 13 of embodiment 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 1, Fig. 2, and Fig. 8. In the humidifying filter unit 13 of embodiment 3, the shape of the supply unit 140 differs from that of embodiment 1 and embodiment 2. Below, the differences between embodiment 3 and embodiments 1 and 2 will be described, and descriptions of parts that overlap with embodiments 1 and 2 will be omitted.

Figure 8 shows the humidifying filter unit 13 according to the third embodiment. Note that in Figure 8, the storage section 131e has been omitted in order to make the invention easier to see. As shown in Figure 8, the frame body 131a has a circular shape. The frame body 131a covers the edge EG1 of the humidifying filter 133 and is positioned outside the humidifying filter 133. The frame body 131a also covers the edge EG3 of the supply section 140 and is positioned outside the edge EG3 of the supply section 140. In other words, the frame body 131a is positioned outside the first holding portion and the second holding portion.

The supply unit 140 in the third embodiment has a sector shape that matches the shape of the storage unit 131e (not shown). A portion of the humidifying filter 133 is cut out in a sector shape.

The supply unit 140 supplies water to the humidifying filter 133. When the curved edge EG3 of the supply unit 140 is located at the lowest position, the edge EG3 is immersed in the water W of the water tank 19. In other words, when the curved edge EG3 of the supply unit 140 is located at the lowest position, the supply unit 140 pumps up water. When the straight edge EG4 of the supply unit 140 is located at the highest position and is approximately parallel to the water surface of the water tank 19, the supply unit 140 supplies water to the humidifying filter 133.

As shown in FIG. 8, the supply section 140 includes a storage section 141.

The storage section 141 stores water. The storage section 141 is open on one side and closed on the other. The storage section 141 has an opening 143.

The opening 143 functions as a discharge port and a pumping port.

The opening 143 as an outlet discharges water from the storage section 141. As shown in FIG. 8, the opening 143 faces the humidifying filter 133. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8, when the edge EG4 on the straight side of the supply section 140 is located at the uppermost position and is approximately parallel to the water surface of the water tank 19, the opening 143 as an outlet discharges water. The discharged water is absorbed by the humidifying filter 133. In other words, water is supplied to the humidifying filter 133. That is, the humidifying filter 133 not only absorbs water from the water tank 19, but also absorbs water discharged from the opening 143 as an outlet. As a result, the humidifying filter 133 can be prevented from drying out excessively.

The opening 143 as a pumping port pumps up water from the water tank 19. Specifically, when the supply unit 140 is located inside the water tank 19, the opening 143 as a pumping port pumps up water from the water tank 19. Specifically, when the opening 143 as a pumping port is located inside the water tank 19, the humidifying filter unit 13 rotates in the first rotation direction R1, so that water from the water tank 19 can be pumped up from the opening 143 as a pumping port.

[Modification 1]
Next, a first modified example of the humidifying filter unit 13 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 9. The humidifying filter unit 13 according to the first modified example of the third embodiment differs from that of the third embodiment in the shape of the supply unit 140. Below, the first modified example of the third embodiment will be described with respect to the points different from the third embodiment, and a description of the points that overlap with the third embodiment will be omitted.

Figure 9 shows a humidifying filter unit 13 according to a first variation of the third embodiment. In Figure 9, the storage section 131e is omitted to make the invention easier to see.

The supply unit 140 of the first modified example has a non-circular shape to match the shape of the storage unit 131e (not shown). In the first modified example, the supply unit 140 has a substantially D-shape when viewed from the front. Specifically, with respect to the shape of the supply unit 140, "non-circular shape" includes straight lines and curved lines.

As shown in FIG. 9, the supply unit 140 includes a storage unit 141. The storage unit 141 stores water. The storage unit 141 has a shape with one open end and the other closed. The storage unit 141 has an opening 143. The opening 143 is located on an edge EG4 on the straight side of the supply unit 140. Specifically, the opening 143 is located on an imaginary line connecting the rotation axis AX and the detected member 301. Therefore, when the edge EG4 on the straight side of the supply unit 140 is immersed in the water of the water tank 19, water enters through the opening 143 and is stored in the storage unit 141. The opening 143 functions as an outlet and a pumping port.

[Modification 2]
Next, a first modified example of the humidifying filter unit 13 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 10. The humidifying filter unit 13 according to a second modified example of the third embodiment differs from that of the third embodiment in the shape of the supply unit 140. Below, the second modified example of the third embodiment will be described with respect to the points different from the third embodiment, and a description of the points that overlap with the third embodiment will be omitted.

Figure 10 shows a humidifying filter unit 13 according to variant 2 of embodiment 3. In Figure 10, the storage section 131e is omitted to make the invention easier to see.

The supply unit 140 in the second modification has a non-circular shape to match the shape of the storage unit 131e (not shown). In the first modification, the supply unit 140 has a substantially D-shape in a front view. Specifically, with respect to the shape of the supply unit 140, "non-circular shape" includes straight lines and curved lines.

As shown in FIG. 10, the supply unit 140 includes a storage unit 141. The storage unit 141 stores water. The storage unit 141 has a shape with one open end and the other closed end. The storage unit 141 has an opening 143. The opening 143 is arranged on the edge EG4 on the straight side of the supply unit 140. In the second modification, when rotating in the first rotation direction R1, water enters the water tank 19 from the opening 143. Therefore, water enters the storage unit 141 from the opening 143 in accordance with the rotation in the first rotation direction R1. Water enters from the opening 143 and is stored in the storage unit 141. The opening 143 functions as a discharge port and a pumping port.

The supply unit 140 of embodiment 3, modification example 1 of embodiment 3, and modification example 2 of embodiment 3 may further include the switching unit 142 shown in embodiments 1 and 2.

The above describes the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in each of the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings are mainly schematic views of each component for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings differ from the actual ones due to the convenience of drawing. In addition, the speed, material, shape, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are merely examples and are not particularly limited, and various modifications are possible within a range that does not substantially deviate from the configuration of the present invention.

(1) In the first embodiment, the holding portion 131 rotates in the first rotation direction D1, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the holding portion 131 may rotate in the second rotation direction D2. When the holding portion 131 rotates in the second rotation direction D2, the opening 143 of the storage portion 141 opens toward the second rotation direction D2.

(2) The humidifying filter 133 in the first embodiment and the humidifying filter 133 in the second embodiment are substantially D-shaped, but are not limited to this. The humidifying filter 133 may be, for example, polygonal. For example, the humidifying filter 133 may be, for example, substantially triangular. Also, for example, the humidifying filter 133 may be, for example, substantially rectangular.

(3) In the first and second embodiments, the rotating plate 142B abuts against the flange portion 245 due to the surface tension of the water adhering to the outlet 144, but this is not limited to the above. For example, the rotating shaft 142A may have a drive mechanism 21, and a detection unit additionally provided on the side wall near the periphery of the humidifying filter unit 13 may detect the detected member 301 attached to the humidifying filter unit 13, and the rotating shaft 142A may repeatedly switch between a state in which the storage unit 141 and the outlet 144 are not in communication and a state in which the storage unit 141 and the outlet 144 are in communication.

Specifically, the rotating plate 142B is rotated by the motor of the drive mechanism 21. The drive mechanism 21 rotates the rotating plate 142B when the detection unit 30 detects the detected member 301. In other words, when it detects that the opening 143 is at the top, it rotates the rotating plate 142B and supplies water to the humidifying filter 133. Therefore, water can be efficiently supplied to the humidifying filter 133.

(4) Although an example has been shown in which the pumping port 145 is positioned radially outward of the discharge port 144 with respect to the rotation axis AX, the pumping port 145 does not necessarily need to be formed outside the discharge port 144, and the pumping port 145 may serve as both the pumping port 145 and the discharge port 144.

(5) In the second embodiment, an example in which the opening 143 of the first storage section 141A and the opening 143 of the second storage section 141B face each other has been described, but this is not limited thereto. For example, the opening 143 of the first storage section 141A and the opening 143 of the second storage section 141B do not have to face each other. In this case, the supply section 140 further includes a switching section 142 that switches the state of the first storage section 141A and a switching section 142 that switches the state of the second storage section 141B. The switching section 142 that switches the state of the first storage section 141A switches the state of the first storage section 141A between a state in which the first storage section 141A and the discharge port 144 are in communication with each other and a state in which the first storage section 141A and the discharge port 144 are not in communication with each other. In addition, the switching unit 142, which switches the state of the second storage unit 141B, switches the state of the second storage unit 141B between a state in which the second storage unit 141B and the discharge port 144 are in communication with each other and a state in which the second storage unit 141B and the discharge port 144 are not in communication with each other.

The present invention provides a humidifying filter unit and a humidifying device, and has industrial applicability.

13: Humidifying filter unit 15: Rotating shaft 19: Water tank 30: Detection section 100: Humidifying device 131: Holding section 131a: Frame body 131e: Storage section 133: Humidifying filter 140: Supply section 141: Storage section 141A: First storage section 141B: Second storage section 142: Switching section 143: Opening 143A: Opening 143B: Opening 144: Discharge port 145: Pumping port 301: Detected member AX: Rotation axis R1: First rotation direction R2: Second rotation direction W: Water

Claims (6)

A humidifying filter unit rotatable about a rotation axis,
A humidifying filter that absorbs water from the aquarium and passes air through it;
a supply unit that draws up the water from the water tank and supplies the water to the humidifying filter;
a holding part that holds the humidifying filter and the supply part,
The holding portion is
A circular frame body;
a housing portion having a non-circular shape and housing the supply portion;
the humidifying filter has a non-circular shape and is disposed inside the frame;
the housing portion is disposed inside the frame at a position different from the humidifying filter ,
The supply unit includes:
An outlet for discharging the water;
A pumping port for pumping up the water;
having
The exhaust port faces the humidifying filter,
The pumping port is disposed radially outward relative to the discharge port with respect to the rotation axis,
The supply unit includes:
A storage section that stores the water pumped up from the pumping port;
The humidifying filter unit further includes a switching unit that switches a state of the storage unit between a state in which the storage unit and the outlet are in communication with each other and a state in which the storage unit and the outlet are not in communication with each other . The storage section includes:
A first storage section that stores the pumped water;
and a second storage section for storing the pumped water,
The holding portion is rotatable in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction,
The first storage portion has an opening that opens toward the first rotation direction,
When the holding portion rotates in the first rotation direction, the first storage portion stores the water that flows in from the pumping port,
The second storage portion has an opening that opens toward the second rotation direction,
The humidifying filter unit according to claim 1 , wherein the second reservoir stores the water that has flowed in through the scooping port when the holding portion rotates in the second rotation direction. The humidifying filter unit according to claim 2 , wherein an opening of the first storage portion faces an opening of the second storage portion. The switching unit switches a state of the first storage unit and a state of the second storage unit between a first state and a second state in response to rotation of the holding unit,
The first state indicates a state in which an opening of the first storage portion and the discharge port are in communication with each other, and an opening of the second storage portion and the discharge port are not in communication with each other,
The humidifying filter unit according to claim 3 , wherein the second state indicates a state in which an opening of the second storage portion and the outlet are in communication with each other, and an opening of the first storage portion and the outlet are not in communication with each other. A humidifying filter unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
A tank for storing water;
a detection unit that detects a rotational position of the humidifying filter unit. The humidifying filter unit further includes a detection member that is detected by the detection unit.
The detected member is disposed in the housing portion,
The humidifier according to claim 5 , wherein the detection section detects the rotation of the humidifying filter unit by detecting the detected member.

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