JP7634580B2 - Filter structure and air purifier intake structure - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to a filter structure and an intake structure for an air purifier, and in particular to a filter structure for an air purifier that is attached to the intake port of the air purifier to filter the air passing through the intake port, and to the intake structure of the air purifier to which the filter structure is attached.

Conventionally, it has been proposed to attach a cover to machines with an air intake surface, such as coolers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, or air purifiers, to prevent dirt from adhering to the air intake surface or other exterior parts of the machine.

For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 11-83069 discloses a technique for attaching a cover body with a string or a hook-and-loop fastener at the end of the string, or a cover body with rubber, to a machine in a removable manner. It also discloses providing a folded-in portion on the cover body to accommodate the air intake surfaces of various manufacturers and models of different sizes.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-83069

However, in general, the size of the air intake surface of an air conditioner tends to be larger than the size of the air intake surface of a floor-standing dehumidifier or air purifier. For this reason, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, when attaching a cover to a dehumidifier or air purifier, it was sometimes necessary to provide a considerable fold-in portion. Therefore, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, by using the cover for both an air conditioner and an air purifier, there was a risk that the resistance to air intake would decrease at the fold-in portion.

As a method for attaching a filter for an air purifier to the air intake of an air purifier, it has been proposed to attach hook-and-loop fasteners to the four corners of the filter and secure the filter around the air intake via the hook-and-loop fasteners. However, with this method, the airflow resistance of the filter body is greater than the airflow resistance of the gaps that are not secured with the hook-and-loop fasteners, so there is a tendency for air to pass through these gaps rather than through the filter body very much. This poses the problem that the filtering performance of the filter body cannot be fully utilized.

This invention was made to solve the above problems, and aims to provide a filter structure and an air purifier intake structure that allows air to pass through the filter body and utilizes the filtering performance of the filter body.

In order to achieve the above object, a filter structure in a first aspect of the present invention is a filter structure for attaching to an intake port of an air purifier to filter air passing through the intake port, the filter structure comprising: a filter body having flexibility, set to a size capable of covering the intake port, and formed in a sheet shape; and a filter layer having a dimensional relationship set in accordance with the size of the outer periphery of the intake port on one side of the filter body, formed so as to continuously surround an inner part located toward the center from the outer periphery on one side of the filter body, for fixing the filter body to the outer periphery of the intake port. and a fixing portion for fixing the filter body to the filter, the fixing portion including an outer circumferential portion continuously surrounding the inner portion of the filter body, and a lattice portion provided in the inner portion of the filter body, the outer circumferential portion having a second band-shaped portion extending along the edge portion, and a fourth band-shaped portion connected to one end of the second band-shaped portion and extending along the edge portion, the lattice portion having a fifth band-shaped portion and a sixth band-shaped portion extending parallel to the second band-shaped portion, and a seventh band-shaped portion and an eighth band-shaped portion extending so as to intersect with the second band-shaped portion, the fifth band-shaped portion and the sixth band-shaped portion, the fifth band-shaped portion and the sixth band-shaped portion being located closer to the second band-shaped portion than the sixth band-shaped portion. the seventh band portion is formed at a position closer to the fourth band portion than the eighth band portion, the interval between the second band portion and the fifth band portion is set smaller than the interval between the fifth band portion and the sixth band portion, and the interval between the fourth band portion and the seventh band portion is set larger than the interval between the seventh band portion and the eighth band portion, the fixing portion is formed by applying an adhesive, and further includes a marking portion on an inner portion of the filter body, the marking portion being formed by applying an adhesive in a marking shape indicating the time to replace the filter structure, the marking portion being composed of a plurality of marking elements, A plurality of sign elements are formed so as to be scattered in an island-like manner in the area surrounded by each band-shaped portion of the part and each band-shaped portion of the lattice part, a line connecting a plurality of sign elements in one area and a line connecting a plurality of sign elements in another area are in a parallel relationship and are offset so as not to intersect even when extended, and the fixing portion is an adhesive pattern that is cut along any of the fifth band-shaped portion, sixth band-shaped portion, seventh band-shaped portion or eighth band-shaped portion depending on the vertical or horizontal size of the rear air intake of the air purifier and surrounds the periphery of the rear air intake of the air purifier.

With this configuration, air passes through the filter body during use. As use progresses, dust adheres to the periphery of the sign. Furthermore, the sign element can be prevented from blocking the gaps in the lattice of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and the visibility of the sign element can be improved as use progresses. Furthermore, the positional relationship of the sign element can be shifted for each area.

A filter structure according to a second aspect of the present invention is the filter structure according to the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the air permeability of the filter body is set to 1500 to 5000 cc/cm ² /sec.

This configuration allows for a ventilation volume that does not excessively impede the air purifier's ventilation.

The filter structure in the third aspect of the present invention is the same as the first or second aspect of the invention, in which the fixing portion is formed by applying an adhesive, and further includes band-shaped portions that pass through the inner portion of the filter body and are formed in bands at predetermined intervals.

This configuration creates adhesive force on the inside of the filter body for fixing.

In a fourth aspect of the present invention, the filter structure is a structure according to any one of the first to third aspects of the present invention, in which the filter body is subjected to at least one of antibacterial and antiviral treatments.

This configuration can suppress the occurrence or proliferation of bacteria or viruses.

A filter structure in a fifth aspect of the present invention is a configuration of the invention in any one of the first to fourth aspects , wherein the sign element is sized to fit within an area formed by a square or rectangle having one side measuring 6 to 15 mm and the other side measuring 6 to 15 mm.

This configuration prevents the sign element from interfering with the gaps in the grille of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and increases the visibility of the sign element as use progresses.

A filter structure in a sixth aspect of the present invention is a filter structure in which, in the configuration of the invention in any one of the first to fifth aspects , the plurality of marker elements are arranged such that the adjacent marker elements are shifted relative to each other either up, down, left, or right.

With this configuration, dust is more reliably attracted to the periphery of the sign element of the sign portion.
A filter structure in a seventh aspect of the present invention is a filter structure for attaching to an air intake of an air purifier to filter air passing through the air intake, the filter structure comprising: a filter body formed in a sheet shape having flexibility and a size set so as to be able to cover the air intake; and a fixing part for fixing the filter body to the outer periphery of the air intake, the fixing part being set on one side of the filter body in a dimensional relationship according to the size of the outer periphery of the air intake and being formed so as to continuously surround an inner part located on the one side of the filter body closer to the center than the outer periphery , the fixing part fixing the filter body to the outer periphery of the air intake, The filter body includes an outer peripheral portion that continuously surrounds the filter body, and a lattice portion provided on an inner portion of the filter body, the outer peripheral portion having a second band portion extending along the edge portion and a fourth band portion connected to one end of the second band portion and extending along the edge portion, the lattice portion having a fifth band portion and a sixth band portion extending parallel to the second band portion, and a seventh band portion and an eighth band portion extending so as to intersect with the second band portion, the fifth band portion and the sixth band portion, the fifth band portion and the sixth band portion being formed at a position closer to the second band portion than the sixth band portion, and the seventh band portion being formed at a position closer to the fourth band portion than the eighth band portion. the filter body includes a filter unit having a filter structure formed on an inner side thereof, the filter unit being configured such that a distance between the second band portion and the fifth band portion is set smaller than a distance between the fifth band portion and the sixth band portion, and a distance between the fourth band portion and the seventh band portion is set larger than a distance between the seventh band portion and the eighth band portion, the filter unit being configured such that a distance between the second band portion and the fifth band portion is set smaller than a distance between the fifth band portion and the sixth band portion, the distance between the fourth band portion and the seventh band portion being larger than a distance between the seventh band portion and the eighth band portion, the filter unit being configured such that a distance between the second band portion and the fifth band portion is set smaller than a distance between the sixth band portion and the eighth band portion, the filter unit being configured such that a distance between the fourth band portion and the seventh band portion is set larger than a distance between the seventh ... The sign elements are sized to fit within an area defined by a square or rectangle with one side measuring 6 to 15 mm and the other side measuring 6 to 15 mm, the multiple sign elements are arranged such that the closest sign elements are offset from each other either vertically or horizontally, the filter body is set to a size of 35 to 45 cm in height and 19 to 38 cm in width, and the fixing portion is an adhesive pattern that is cut along any of the fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth bands depending on the vertical or horizontal size of the rear air intake of the air purifier and surrounds the periphery of the rear air intake of the air purifier.
With this configuration, air passes through the filter body during use. As use progresses, dust adheres to the periphery of the sign. Furthermore, the sign element can be prevented from blocking the gaps in the lattice of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and the visibility of the sign element can be improved as use progresses. Furthermore, the positional relationship of the sign element can be shifted for each area.

An intake structure for an air purifier in an eighth aspect of the present invention is an intake structure for an air purifier, comprising a rear air intake port provided on the rear of the air purifier and set to a size of 33 to 55 cm in height and 19 to 38 cm in width, and the filter structure in any of the first to sixth aspects attached in alignment with the outer periphery of the rear air intake port.

This configuration results in an air purifier intake structure in which air passes through the filter body during use.

As described above, the filter structure in the first aspect of the present invention allows air to pass through the filter body during use, so that the function of the filter body can be effectively utilized. Furthermore, as use progresses, dust adheres to the periphery of the sign portion, so that the sign portion rises due to the dust and can indicate the time to replace the filter structure. Furthermore, the sign element can be prevented from blocking the gaps in the lattice of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and the visibility of the sign element increases as use progresses, so that the sign element functions more reliably as a sign indicating the time to replace the filter structure. Furthermore, the positional relationship of the sign element can be shifted for each area portion, so that it is possible to prevent all the sign elements from failing to rise properly.

The filter structure in the second aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effects of the invention in the first aspect, provides an airflow rate that does not excessively impede the ventilation of the air purifier, thereby preventing any disruption to the operation of the air purifier.

The filter structure in the third aspect of the present invention has the same effects as the first or second aspect of the invention, but also has an adhesive force on the inner part of the filter body for fixing, making it more securely attached to the air purifier.

The filter structure in the fourth aspect of the present invention has the same effect as any of the first to third aspects of the invention, and is therefore advantageous in terms of hygiene, since it can suppress the occurrence or proliferation of bacteria or viruses.

The filter structure in a fifth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effects of the invention in any of the first to fourth aspects , can prevent the indicator element from interfering with the gaps in the lattice of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and the visibility of the indicator element increases as use progresses, so that the indicator element more reliably functions as an indicator indicating when it is time to replace the filter structure.

The filter structure in the sixth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effect of the invention in any one of the first to fifth aspects, more reliably attracts dust around the sign element of the sign part, thereby making it possible to prevent the sign element of the sign part from being unable to float up properly.
In the seventh aspect of the present invention, the filter structure allows air to pass through the filter body during use, so that the function of the filter body can be effectively utilized. As use progresses, dust adheres to the periphery of the sign portion, so that the sign portion is lifted by the dust and can indicate the time to replace the filter structure. Furthermore, the sign element can be prevented from blocking the gaps in the lattice of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and the visibility of the sign element increases as use progresses, so that the sign element functions more reliably as a sign indicating the time to replace the filter structure .

The air intake structure for an air purifier in an eighth aspect of the present invention, in addition to achieving the effects of the invention in any one of the first to seventh aspects, provides an air intake structure for an air purifier in which air passes through the filter body during use, thereby making it possible to effectively utilize the function of the filter body while preventing dust from contaminating the inside of the air purifier.

1 is a plan view showing an external shape of an air purifier filter structure according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is an end view of line II-II shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the X1 portion shown in FIG. 2 . 1A and 1B are diagrams showing the external appearance of an air purifier, in which FIG. 1A shows the external shape of the front side of the air purifier, and FIG. 1B shows the external shape of the rear side of the air purifier. 11A to 11C are diagrams showing a mounting process for mounting the filter structure to an air purifier. FIG. 11 is a plan view showing the external shape of an air intake structure of an air purifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to FIG. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the external shape of an air intake structure of an air purifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to FIG. 6 . FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to FIG. 6 . FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to FIG. 7. FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to FIG. 6. 1A to 1C are diagrams showing a mounting process for mounting the filter structure to an air conditioner. 11A to 11C are diagrams showing a mounting process for mounting the filter structure to an air purifier. 13 is a diagram showing a step following the mounting step shown in FIG. 12 . FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to S31 in FIG. 12. FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to FIG. FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the filter structure shown in FIG. 15 . FIG. 17 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to FIG. 15.

Figure 1 is a plan view showing the external shape of an air purifier filter structure according to a first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is an end view of line II-II shown in Figure 1, and Figure 3 is an enlarged view of part X1 shown in Figure 2.

Referring to these figures, the filter structure 1 is for an air purifier and is attached to the air intake of the air purifier to filter the air passing through the air intake, and includes a filter body 10 and a fixing part 20.

The filter body 10 is flexible, sized to cover the air intake, and made of nonwoven fabric or the like formed into a sheet.

The filter body 10 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape in plan view, with the long side length W11 of the substantially rectangular shape being set to approximately 38.5 cm, and the short side length W12 being set to approximately 25 cm. The filter body 10 is also antiviral treated by adding an inorganic photocatalytic agent, which is advantageous in terms of hygiene as it can suppress the generation of viruses. The airflow rate of the filter body 10 is set to 1500 to 5000 cc/cm ² /sec. Since the airflow rate is set to such a value, it is possible to avoid excessive interference with the airflow of the air purifier and to avoid problems with the operation of the air purifier. For example, it is possible to avoid clogging errors occurring in the air purifier during use.

The fixing part 20 is set on one side of the filter body 10 with dimensions that correspond to the size of the outer periphery of the air intake, and is formed so as to substantially continuously surround the inner part of the filter body 10.

The fixing portion 20 is formed by applying an adhesive (such as a urethane adhesive) in a substantially square-shaped band along the edge of the substantially rectangular shape of the filter body 10 on one side of the filter body 10. The fixing portion 20 can fix the filter body 10 to the outer periphery of the air intake of the air purifier by using this applied adhesive. The width W21 of the band of the fixing portion 20 is set to 1.0 cm.

The effects of configuring the filter structure 1 in this manner will be described later.

Next, we will explain how to attach the filter structure 1 to an air purifier.

Figure 4 shows the external appearance of the air purifier, where (a) shows the external shape of the front side of the air purifier, (b) shows the external shape of the rear side of the air purifier, and Figure 5 shows the installation process for attaching the filter structure to the air purifier.

First, as shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 4, the air purifier 60 has a rear section 61 having a height H61 of 64 cm and a width W61 of 24 cm, and a rear air intake section 62 provided on the rear section 61 and having a height H62 of 37 cm and a width W62 of 24 cm (=W61). The rear air intake section 62 is configured with openings of a substantially rectangular shape aligned vertically and horizontally.

Next, referring to FIG. 5, as shown in S1, the adhesive portion 20 side is placed facing the rear air intake portion 62, and the filter body 10 is aligned and attached to the outer periphery 63 located outside the rear air intake portion 62 in the direction of the arrow, and as shown in S2, the attachment is completed and the air intake structure 70 of the air purifier is completed.

With this type of air intake structure 70, when the air purifier is in use, air passes through the filter body 10 and flows into the air intake port of the air purifier, making effective use of the filtering and anti-viral functions of the filter body 10.

Figure 6 is a plan view showing the external shape of the intake structure of an air purifier according to a second embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 1.

Note that since this is basically the same as the first embodiment, the following explanation will focus on the differences.

Referring to the figure, the fixing portion 20 of the filter structure 1 according to the second embodiment further comprises a band portion 31, a marking portion 32, and a contour portion 33 in addition to the first embodiment.

The belt-shaped portion 31 passes through the inner part of the filter body 10 so as to intersect with the short side of the approximately rectangular shape at an angle of θ = 45°, and is formed at a predetermined interval W31 = 6.0 cm in the long side direction. The width W32 of the belt-shaped portion 31 is set to 0.8 cm.

The sign portion 32 is provided so as to overlap at least a portion of the belt-shaped portion 31, and is coated with adhesive in the form of a sign indicating when it is time to replace the filter structure 1, i.e., the inverted letters "Torikaete ne (Japanese)".

The outline portion 33 is provided around the marker portion 32 and is the portion to which no adhesive is applied.

This configuration creates an adhesive force on the inside of the filter body 10 for fixing, making it more securely attached to the air purifier.

Figure 7 is a plan view showing the external shape of the intake structure of an air purifier according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 6.

Note that since this is basically the same as the second embodiment, the following explanation will focus on the differences.

Referring to the figure, in the fixing portion 20 of the filter structure 1 according to the third embodiment, the band portion 31 in the second embodiment is replaced with a band portion 35.

The belt-shaped portion 35 intersects with the short sides of the substantially rectangular shape at angles θ = approximately 45° and γ = approximately 135°. In other words, the belt-shaped portion 35 has an X-shaped lattice shape. Therefore, the adhesive strength can be further reinforced compared to the second embodiment.

Figure 8 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 6.

Note that since this is basically the same as the second embodiment, the following explanation will focus on the differences.

Referring to the figure, in this fourth embodiment, the band portion 31 in the second embodiment is replaced with a band portion 36.

The band-shaped portion 36 is configured such that bands extending through the inner portion of the filter body 10 are formed at a predetermined interval in the long side direction so as to be approximately perpendicular to the short side of the approximately rectangular shape. In other words, the band-shaped portion 36 has an I-shaped rigid lattice shape.

Even with this configuration, adhesive force is generated on the inside of the filter body 10 for fixing, making attachment to the air purifier more secure.

Figure 9 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 7.

Note that since this is basically the same as the third embodiment, the following explanation will focus on the differences.

Referring to the figure, in this fifth embodiment, the fixed part 20 is configured like the fixed part 20 in the third embodiment, with the band-like portion of the periphery being removed. In other words, the fixed part 20 has a band-like portion 37 having an X-shaped lattice shape that intersects with the short sides of the substantially rectangular shape at angles θ = approximately 45° and γ = approximately 135°.

The outer periphery of the belt-shaped portion 37, i.e., the portion extending along the fold line L, is formed so as to continuously surround the inner portion of the filter body. In addition, the size of the outer periphery of the belt-shaped portion 37 (i.e., the size of the closed fold line L) is set to be slightly larger than the outer periphery shape P of the intake port of the air purifier to which it is to be attached.

In this way, the fixing part 20 is not limited to a square shape, and any shape can be used as long as it is set to a dimensional relationship according to the size of the outer periphery of the air intake and surrounds the inner part of the filter body 10 in a substantially continuous manner. With this configuration, air passes through the filter body during use.

Figure 10 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 6.

Note that since this is basically the same as the second embodiment, the following explanation will focus on the differences.

Referring to the figure, in this sixth embodiment, the filter structure 2 is a piece that is cut out or attached in its entirety to an object to filter the air that passes through it, and is used not only for air purifiers but also for air conditioners.

Specifically, the filter structure 2 is configured to include a filter body 15 that is flexible, has a size that can cover the air conditioner intake port, and is in the form of a sheet that is approximately rectangular in plan view, and a fixing portion 22 that is provided on one side of the filter body 15 and is used to fix the filter body 15 to an object.

The size of the filter body 15 is set so that the length W41 of the long side of the approximately rectangular shape is approximately 80 cm, and the length W42 of the short side is approximately 38 cm.

The fixing portion 22 is formed by applying an adhesive, and like the fixing portion 20 of the second embodiment, includes a strip portion 31, a marking portion 32, and a contour portion 33, and further includes nine strip portions as described below.

The first band portion 41 extends along the edge portion 11 of one side of the approximately rectangular shape.

The second band portion 42 extends along the edge portion 12 of the opposing side that faces one side of the substantially rectangular shape.

The third band portion 43 extends along the edge portion 13 of the connecting side that connects one side of the substantially rectangular shape to the opposing side.

The fourth band portion 44 extends parallel to the third band portion 43 and is spaced a predetermined distance from the third band portion 43.

The fifth band portion 45 extends along the edge portion 14 of the side opposite the above-mentioned connecting side. In other words, the fifth band portion 45 is positioned opposite the third band portion 43.

The sixth belt-shaped portion 46 is formed to extend along the imaginary line M on the first belt-shaped portion 41 side of the imaginary line M that connects the centers of a pair of short sides of the approximately rectangular shape of the filter body 15.

The seventh band portion 47 is formed to extend along the imaginary line M on the second band portion 42 side of the imaginary line M.

The eighth band portion 48 is formed spaced apart from the sixth band portion 46 toward the first band portion 41.

The ninth band portion 49 is formed spaced apart from the seventh band portion 47 toward the second band portion 42.

In addition, in the fixing portion 22, the size of the square shape consisting of the first belt portion 41a, the second belt portion 42a, the third belt portion 43, and the fourth belt portion 44 (i.e., the size of the closed folded line L) is set to a dimensional relationship that corresponds to the size of the outer periphery of the air intake of the air purifier.

When configured in this manner, the filter structure 2 is for use in an air conditioner when the filter body 15 is not cut, and is for use in an air purifier when the filter body 15 is cut along the outer side of the square shape of the fourth belt-shaped portion 44 (i.e., along straight line C).

Below, we will explain how to attach the filter structure 2 to an air conditioner and an air purifier.

Figure 11 shows the installation process for attaching the filter structure to an air conditioner.

Referring to the figure, as shown in S21, the filter structure 2 is folded in a mountain fold along the imaginary line M (see FIG. 10), and the fixing portion 22 side of the filter body 15 is placed facing the front air intake 51 of the air conditioner 50, and the filter structure 2 is attached to the front air intake 51 in the direction of the arrow.

Next, as shown in S22, the filter structure 2 is attached in the direction of the arrow so as to cover the upper air intake 52, and the attachment is completed as shown in S23.

As described with reference to FIG. 10, the filter body 15 of the filter structure 2 has a substantially rectangular shape with the long side length W41 set to approximately 80 cm and the short side length W42 set to approximately 38 cm, so that it fits well with the size of the air intake of commonly used home air conditioners. This results in a filter structure 2 that is highly versatile among air conditioners of different manufacturers and models.

In addition, the sixth belt portion 46 to the ninth belt portion 49 can generate adhesive strength near the center, so that when the filter body is folded near the center, such as during the installation process of an air conditioner, it can be more securely fixed to the target object.

Next, we will explain how to attach the filter structure 2 to an air purifier.

Figure 12 shows the installation process for attaching the filter structure to an air purifier, and Figure 13 shows the process following the installation process shown in Figure 12.

First, referring to FIG. 12, as shown in S31, the long side of the filter body 15 is cut along a straight line C to prepare the cut filter body 16.

Next, as shown in S32, the fixing part 22 is placed opposite the rear air intake part 62, and the cut filter body 16 is aligned and attached to the outer periphery 63 of the rear air intake part 62 in the direction of the arrow, completing the attachment as shown in S33 of FIG. 13, and the air intake structure 70 of the air purifier is completed.

The filter structure 2 is attached to the rear air intake 62 of the air purifier so that the long side direction of the filter body 15 before cutting coincides with the horizontal direction. In the filter body 16, the size of the square shape included in the fixing part (i.e., the size of the closed fold line L) is set to a dimensional relationship that allows the rear air intake 62 to fit (a dimensional relationship in which the closed fold line L corresponds to the outer periphery 63).

As described above, the filter structure 2 can be easily attached to either an air conditioner or an air purifier depending on the cut, and can more reliably prevent dust from entering.

Figure 14 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to S31 in Figure 12.

Note that since this is basically the same as the sixth embodiment, the following explanation will focus on the differences.

Referring to the figure, in this seventh embodiment, the orientation of the filter structure 2 is different from that in the sixth embodiment.

The filter structure 2 is attached to the air intake (not shown) of the air purifier so that the long side direction of the filter body 15 before cutting coincides with the vertical direction. In the filter body 16, the size of the square shape included in the fixing part (i.e., the size of the closed folded line L) is set to a dimensional relationship according to the shape P of the outer periphery of the air intake of the air purifier.

The filter structure 2 may be installed in such an orientation depending on the size of the air intake of the air purifier, etc.

In the above embodiments, a filter structure having specific dimensions has been described, but this is not limited to this. For example, the lengths of the long and short sides of the approximately rectangular shape of the filter body may be interchanged.

In addition, in each of the above embodiments, a filter body with a specific basis weight and airflow volume is described, but this is not limited to this.

Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the fixing portion has been described as having a portion with a specific shape, but this is not limited to this. The fixing portion is not particularly limited as long as it is set on one side of the filter body in a dimensional relationship that corresponds to the size of the outer periphery of the air purifier intake and includes a portion formed to substantially continuously surround the inner portion of the filter body. In addition, as long as it is possible to prevent air from directly entering the air purifier intake, the shape does not have to completely and continuously surround the inner portion of the filter body.

Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the fixing portion for fixing the filter body to the air purifier is formed by applying an adhesive, but this is not limited to this. The fixing portion may be formed from a hook-and-loop fastener or double-sided tape.

Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the filter structure is mainly described as being attached to the rear air intake of the air purifier, but it may be attached to other air intakes in addition to the rear air intake.

Furthermore, in the second embodiment and the like described above, the fixing part is configured to include a marking part and a contour part, but these marking part and contour part may be omitted.

Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, it has been described that the filter body is antiviral-treated, but this is not limited to this. The filter body may be treated with at least one of antibacterial and antiviral treatments. Furthermore, these treatments may be inorganic agents such as photocatalysts as described above, organic agents, or a combination of these, and there are no particular limitations. Furthermore, for example, titanium oxide particles constituting the photocatalyst may be used that support copper. This makes it possible to suppress the occurrence or proliferation of bacteria or viruses.

Furthermore, although not specifically explained in each of the above embodiments, the size of the rear air intake of the air purifier is often a combination of width (W62) 24, 25, 26, 30, or 33 cm and height (H62) 38 or 40 cm, which can be said to be set to a size of roughly 33 to 45 cm in height and 19 to 38 cm in width. In other words, the filter body only needs to be set to a size that can cover such a rear air intake, for example, a size of 35 to 45 cm in height and 19 to 38 cm in width.

Furthermore, in the sixth and seventh embodiments described above, the size of the filter body is set so that the long side length W11 is approximately 80 cm and the short side length W12 is approximately 38 cm so that it can be easily attached to both the air conditioner and the air purifier by cutting it according to the object, but this is not limited to this.

Furthermore, although not specifically described in each of the above embodiments, from the viewpoint of adhesion with an adhesive, it is preferable that the rear surface and rear air intake of the air purifier are made of a material made of a synthetic resin such as polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS).

Furthermore, in the above first embodiment, the adhesive portion is described as being made of a urethane-based adhesive, but this is not limited to this. The adhesive portion may be made of an acrylic-based adhesive or a silicone-based adhesive, etc.

Furthermore, although not specifically described in each of the above embodiments, the ratio of the area of the fixing portion to the area of the filter body may be approximately 40%. Moreover, the above ratio is preferably 60% or less, and more preferably 55% or less.

Figure 15 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 1, and Figure 16 is a bottom view of the filter structure shown in Figure 15.

The following explanation will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

Referring to these figures, in this eighth embodiment, the filter structure 80 can be cut according to the size of the air intake of the air purifier. Specifically, the fixing part 20 includes an outer peripheral part that substantially continuously surrounds the inner part of the filter body 10, and an inner region of the outer peripheral part, i.e., a lattice part provided in the inner part of the filter body 10.

The outer peripheral portion is composed of a first band portion 41 extending along the edge portion 11 of one side of the substantially rectangular shape, a second band portion 42 extending along the edge portion 12 of the opposing side that faces the one side of the substantially rectangular shape, a third band portion 43 extending along the edge portion 13 of the connecting side that connects the one side of the substantially rectangular shape to the opposing side, and a fourth band portion 81 extending along the edge portion 14 of the side that faces the connecting side.

The lattice portion is composed of a fifth band portion 82 and a sixth band portion 83 that extend parallel to the first band portion 41 and the second band portion 42, and a seventh band portion 84 and an eighth band portion 85 that extend approximately perpendicular to the first band portion 41, the second band portion 42, the fifth band portion 82, and the sixth band portion 83.

That is, the seventh band portion 84 and the eighth band portion 85 extend parallel to the third band portion 43 and are spaced a predetermined distance from the third band portion 43. The fourth band portion 81 is positioned opposite the third band portion 43.

The size of the filter structure 80 is set as follows:

Width (H90) of the third belt portion 43, the fourth belt portion 81, the seventh belt portion 84, and the eighth belt portion 85: 10.0 mm
Length of the long side of the filter body 10 (H80): 560.0 mm
Length from the outer end of the fourth belt-like portion 81 to the outer end of the third belt-like portion 43 (H81): 550.0 mm
Length from the outer end of the seventh band portion 84 to the outer end of the third band portion 43 (H82): 440.0 mm
Length from the outer end of the eighth belt portion 85 to the outer end of the third belt portion 43 (H83): 380.0 mm
Length from the inner end of the fourth belt-like portion 81 to the inner end of the third belt-like portion 43 (H84): 530.0 mm
Length from the inner end of the seventh band portion 84 to the inner end of the third band portion 43 (H85): 420.0 mm
Length from the inner end of the eighth band portion 85 to the inner end of the third band portion 43 (H86): 360.0 mm
Width (W90) of the first belt portion 41, the second belt portion 42, the fifth belt portion 82, and the sixth belt portion 83: 10.0 mm
Length of short side of filter body 10 (W80): 380.0 mm
Length from the outer end of the first belt-like portion 41 to the outer end of the second belt-like portion 42 (W81): 370.0 mm
Length from the outer end of the first belt-like portion 41 to the outer end of the fifth belt-like portion 82 (W82): 350.0 mm
Length from the outer end of the first belt-like portion 41 to the outer end of the sixth belt-like portion 83 (W83): 270.0 mm
Length from the inner end of the first belt-like portion 41 to the inner end of the second belt-like portion 42 (W84): 350.0 mm
Length from the inner end of the first belt-like portion 41 to the inner end of the fifth belt-like portion 82 (W85): 330.0 mm
Length from the inner end of the first belt-like portion 41 to the inner end of the sixth belt-like portion 83 (W86): 250.0 mm
The effect of setting it in this way will be explained as follows.

First of all, the sizes of the rear air intakes on air purifiers can be broadly divided into three types: 250mm x 360mm, 330mm x 420mm, and 350mm x 530mm.

When using adhesive to bond the outer periphery of the rear air intakes of these three sizes, if the width of the adhesive is 10.0 mm, the outer size of the fixing part 20 (the outer size of the outer periphery) can be set to 270 mm x 380 mm, 350 mm x 440 mm, and 370 mm x 550 mm, and the above-mentioned sizes H81 to H86 and W81 to W86 are set to match this.

When manufacturing the filter structure 80, the original roll is cut out, but is not cut where the adhesive is applied, so the overall size of the filter body 10 is 380 mm (W80) x 560 mm (H80), with 5 mm on each side to serve as ears.

When attaching to the rear air intake of the air purifier, the filter structure 80 is cut along the strips (82, 83, 84, 85) of the lattice portion according to the vertical or horizontal size of the rear air intake of the air purifier as described above, resulting in an adhesive pattern that surrounds the periphery of the rear air intake of the air purifier.

Figure 17 is a plan view showing the external shape of a filter structure according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to Figure 15.

Note that since this is basically the same as the eighth embodiment, the following explanation will focus on the differences.

Referring to the figure, in this ninth embodiment, the fixing portion 20 in the eighth embodiment further includes a ninth band portion 91 and a tenth band portion 92 that extend parallel to the first band portion 41, etc., and an eleventh band portion 93 and a twelfth band portion 94 that extend approximately perpendicular to the first band portion 41, etc., in the lattice portion. Furthermore, the fixing portion 20 includes a mark portion 95 provided in each area surrounded by the band portions (41, 42, 43, 81) of the outer periphery and the band portions (82, 83, 84, 85, 91, 92, 93, 94) of the lattice portion.

The ninth band portion 91 and the tenth band portion 92 are arranged so as to be symmetrical with the fifth band portion 82 and the sixth band portion 83, respectively, with respect to a center line connecting the centers of a pair of short sides of the approximately rectangular shape of the filter body 10.

The eleventh band portion 93 and the twelfth band portion 94 are arranged so as to be symmetrical with the seventh band portion 84 and the eighth band portion 85 with respect to the center line connecting the centers of a pair of long sides of the approximately rectangular shape of the filter body 10.

The sign 95 is made up of multiple heart shapes, and as use progresses, dust accumulates around the heart shape of the sign 95, causing the heart shape of the sign 95 to rise, indicating when it is time to replace the filter structure 80. There are no particular limitations on the size of the heart shapes, but it is preferable to set them to 13 mm x 13 mm.

The effect of setting the size of the heart shape in this way is explained below.

First, the rear air intake of an air purifier is often formed in a lattice pattern with multiple rectangular openings aligned vertically and horizontally, and the size of the lattice pattern is sometimes set to 15 mm x 15 mm.

In the case of such a grid size of 15 mm x 15 mm, it is preferable to set the size of the heart shape of the sign portion 95 to 15 mm x 15 mm or less so as not to block the gaps between the grids. On the other hand, considering the visibility when the heart shape rises as use progresses, it is preferable that the size of the heart shape is larger than 7 mm x 6 mm or 6 mm x 7 mm. From the above, it can be said that it is preferable to set the size of the heart shape to 7 mm x 6 mm or 6 mm x 7 mm, or 7 mm x 7 mm to 15 mm x 15 mm.

The heart shapes included in the sign portion 95 are arranged in a staggered pattern within each region so as not to overlap with the band portions (41, 42, 43, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 91, 92, 93, 94). For example, the heart shape in a certain region portion B81 is arranged on a line L81 at a 45° angle, and the heart shape in another region portion B82 is arranged on a line L82 at a 45° angle, but the lines L81 and 82 are parallel to each other and are offset so that they do not intersect even when extended.

Here, when the filter structure 80 is attached to the rear air intake of the air purifier, the heart shapes may not rise properly even with continued use, depending on the positional relationship between the rear air intake of the air purifier and the lattice. By arranging it as described above, the positional relationship between the heart shapes and the lattice of the rear air intake of the air purifier can be shifted for each area, preventing all of the heart shapes from failing to rise properly.

In the eighth and ninth embodiments, a filter structure composed of a specific number of bands has been described, but there is no limit to the number. For example, in the eighth embodiment, it is also possible to provide bands similar to those in the ninth embodiment.

In addition, although not specifically described in each of the above embodiments, the marking portion in the filter structure according to the ninth embodiment can also be used in the filter structures according to the eighth embodiment and the first to seventh embodiments.

Furthermore, in the above ninth embodiment, the sign portion is configured with multiple heart shapes, but is not limited to this. The sign portion may be configured with sign elements such as other patterns and letters, so long as the sign portion is coated with adhesive in a sign shape indicating the time to replace the filter structure. Furthermore, the sign element may be sized to fit within an area formed by a square or rectangle with one side measuring 6 to 15 mm and the other side measuring 6 to 15 mm. This configuration can prevent the sign element from blocking the gaps in the lattice of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and increases the visibility of the sign element as use progresses. This allows the sign element to more reliably function as a sign indicating the time to replace the filter structure.

Furthermore, in the above ninth embodiment, the multiple heart shapes are arranged in a staggered pattern in each region, but this is not limited to this. The multiple heart shapes can be configured to be arranged at a distance from each other. In other words, the multiple heart shapes may be formed in the region so that they are scattered like islands.

Furthermore, in the above ninth embodiment, the multiple heart shapes are arranged on a specific line, but this is not limited to this. The multiple heart shapes can be arranged in a state where the closest heart shapes are shifted from each other either up, down, left, or right. This makes it possible to more reliably ensure that dust adheres to the periphery of the sign elements of the sign section, thereby preventing the sign elements of the sign section from failing to lift up properly.

Furthermore, although not specifically described in the eighth and ninth embodiments above, the filter structure may be formed to a size for an air conditioner, as described in the sixth embodiment above, and then cut to a specified size.

The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to examples, although the present invention is not limited to these examples.
I. Configuration of the filter structure used in the test As examples, seven types of filter structures (i.e., those according to the first embodiment) having fixing parts with the adhesive pattern shown in FIG. 1 and the like formed on a filter body made of a nonwoven fabric as described above and different basis weights and air permeabilities were prepared.

Examples 1 to 7 are configured so that the air permeability of the filter body measured based on JIS L 1096 A method (Frazier method) falls within the range of 1500 to 5000 cc/cm ² /sec.

In addition, a filter body made of nonwoven fabric was prepared as Comparative Example 1, which did not have a fixing part as in Examples 1 to 7. The basis weight and air permeability of Comparative Example 1 were set to 40 g/ ^m2 and 4654 cc/ ^cm2 /sec, similar to Example 2.

Furthermore, as Comparative Example 2, we also investigated a case where no filter was provided at the rear air intake of the air purifier.

The sizes of Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Example 1 are as follows:

・Vertical length: Approximately 38 cm
・Width: Approximately 26 cm
II. Test Details and Results As described above, the seven types of filter structures of Examples 1 to 7 were used, and tests were performed by attaching each of them to a target model of an air purifier via a fixing part coated with an adhesive, as shown below.

For Comparative Example 1, hook-and-loop fasteners were attached to the four corners of the outer periphery of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and the device was attached to the rear air intake of the air purifier via the hook-and-loop fasteners, and the following tests were performed.

For Comparative Example 2, the following test was carried out without attaching a filter to the rear air intake of the air purifier.
1. Applicable models of air purifiers: Sharp Corporation Product number: KI-FX55-W
External dimensions (mm): Width 392 x Depth 265 x Height 635
Rear air inlet dimensions (mm): Width 227 x Height 345
2. Test Contents (1) Condition Check Test of Internal Filter of Air Purifier For Examples 1 to 7 and Comparative Example 1, the filter structure was attached to the rear air intake of the air purifier so as to completely cover the rear air intake, and then operation was started and continued for 24 hours a day for 2 weeks with the automatic operation mode set. After that, the dirt on the internal filter (HEPA filter, etc.) of the air purifier was visually checked.

For Comparative Example 2, the air purifier was started without a filter, set to automatic operation mode, and operated 24 hours a day for two weeks, after which the internal filter (HEPA filter, etc.) of the air purifier was visually inspected for dirt.

The results are shown in Table 1 below.

表１を参照して、「空気清浄機の内部フィルター枠周辺の埃汚れの状況」では、空気清浄機の内部フィルター枠周辺に埃汚れがそれほどたまっていない“小”、埃汚れがかなりたまっている“大”及び“小”と“大”との間の程度の“中”の３段階で評価した。

Referring to Table 1, the "dust stain condition around the internal filter frame of the air purifier" was evaluated on a three-level scale: "small," where there was not much dust stain accumulated around the internal filter frame of the air purifier; "large," where there was a considerable amount of dust stain accumulated; and "medium," where the dust stain was somewhere between "small" and "large."

As a result, in Examples 1 to 7, the score was "small." In Comparative Example 1, the score was "medium." Furthermore, in Comparative Example 2, the score was "large."

Comparative Example 2, in which no filter was attached, had relatively high levels of dust and dirt. Comparative Example 1 also had less dirt than Comparative Example 2, in which no filter was attached, but it is presumed that dust penetrates into the internal filter side of the air purifier from the unfixed parts when the four corners of the filter body are simply fixed with hook-and-loop fasteners. In conclusion, it can be said that the dirt prevention performance of Examples 1 to 7, in which the filter structure is attached to the air purifier via the fixing part in which adhesive is applied in a square shape, was superior.
(2) Air purifier abnormality confirmation test/abnormal sound detection test After the filter structure was attached to the air purifier, operation was started and a sensory test was performed to confirm whether any abnormal sounds different from normal operation sounds were generated.
・Cleaning sign confirmation test After attaching the filter structure to the air purifier, we checked whether the cleaning sign would light up after starting operation. In the target model, if the filter is clogged, the cleaning sign will light up. If it lights up, it is considered that the breathability of the filter structure is low.

The results are shown in Table 2 below.

表２を参照して、異音感知試験にて、異音が確認されなかったものは、○印とし、異音が確認されたものは×印としている。又、お掃除サイン確認試験にて、お掃除サインが点灯しなかったものは、○印とし、お掃除サインが点灯したものは、×印としている。

With reference to Table 2, in the abnormal sound detection test, those in which no abnormal sound was detected are marked with an O, and those in which an abnormal sound was detected are marked with an X. In addition, in the cleaning sign confirmation test, those in which the cleaning sign was not lit are marked with an O, and those in which the cleaning sign was lit are marked with an X.

As a result, Examples 1 to 4, in which the airflow rate is set to 1500 cc/ ^cm2 /sec or more, were all rated as ○, while Examples 5 to 7, in which the airflow rate is set to 1342 cc/ ^cm2 /sec or less, were all rated as ×.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY As described above, the filter structure for an air purifier and the intake structure of an air purifier to which the filter structure is attached according to the present invention are suitable for, for example, being attached to an object to filter the gas passing therethrough.

Claims (8)

A filter structure (1, 2) for attaching to an air intake of an air purifier to filter air passing through the air intake,
A filter body (10, 15) having flexibility, set to a size capable of covering the air intake port, and formed in a sheet shape;
a fixing portion (20, 22) that is set to a dimensional relationship corresponding to a size of an outer periphery of the air intake on one surface of the filter body, and is formed so as to continuously surround an inner portion located toward the center from the outer periphery on the one surface of the filter body, and that fixes the filter body to the outer periphery of the air intake,
The fixing portion is
The filter body includes an outer circumferential portion that continuously surrounds the inner portion of the filter body, and a lattice portion that is provided in the inner portion of the filter body,
The outer circumferential portion is
a second band extending along the edge;
a fourth band portion connected to one end of the second band portion and extending along the edge portion;
the lattice portion includes a fifth band portion and a sixth band portion extending parallel to the second band portion, and a seventh band portion and an eighth band portion extending so as to intersect with the second band portion, the fifth band portion, and the sixth band portion,
the fifth band portion is formed at a position closer to the second band portion than the sixth band portion is,
the seventh band portion is formed at a position closer to the fourth band portion than the eighth band portion is,
a distance between the second band portion and the fifth band portion is set smaller than a distance between the fifth band portion and the sixth band portion,
a distance between the fourth band portion and the seventh band portion is set to be larger than a distance between the seventh band portion and the eighth band portion,
The fixing portion is formed by applying an adhesive,
The filter body further includes a marking portion formed by applying an adhesive to an inner portion of the filter body in a marking shape to indicate when the filter structure should be replaced,
The sign portion is composed of a plurality of sign elements,
the plurality of sign elements are formed to be scattered in an island shape in an area surrounded by each of the band-shaped portions of the outer circumferential portion and each of the band-shaped portions of the lattice portion,
a line connecting the plurality of sign elements in one of the areas and a line connecting the plurality of sign elements in another of the areas are parallel to each other and are offset from each other so as not to intersect even when extended;
The filter structure has an adhesive pattern in which the fixing portion is cut along any of the fifth band portion, the sixth band portion, the seventh band portion, or the eighth band portion depending on the vertical or horizontal size of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and surrounds the periphery of the rear air intake of the air purifier. 2. The filter structure according to claim 1, wherein the air permeability of said filter body is set to 1500 to 5000 cc/cm ² /sec. The fixing portion is formed by applying an adhesive,
3. The filter structure according to claim 1, further comprising band-like portions (31, 35, 36, 37) formed in a band shape at predetermined intervals passing through an inner portion of the filter body. The filter structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the filter body is treated with at least one of antibacterial and antiviral properties. The filter structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the marking element is sized to fit within a range formed by a square or rectangle with one side measuring 6 to 15 mm and the other side measuring 6 to 15 mm. The filter structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of marker elements are arranged such that the closest marker elements are offset from each other either vertically or horizontally. A filter structure for attaching to an air intake of an air purifier to filter air passing through the air intake, comprising:
A filter body having flexibility, a size set so as to be able to cover the air intake port, and formed in a sheet shape;
a fixing portion that is set to a dimensional relationship corresponding to a size of an outer periphery of the air intake on one surface of the filter body, and is formed so as to continuously surround an inner portion located toward the center from the outer periphery on the one surface of the filter body, and that fixes the filter body to the outer periphery of the air intake,
The fixing portion is
The filter body includes an outer circumferential portion that continuously surrounds the inner portion of the filter body, and a lattice portion that is provided in the inner portion of the filter body,
The outer circumferential portion is
a second band extending along the edge;
a fourth band portion connected to one end of the second band portion and extending along the edge portion;
the lattice portion includes a fifth band portion and a sixth band portion extending parallel to the second band portion, and a seventh band portion and an eighth band portion extending so as to intersect with the second band portion, the fifth band portion, and the sixth band portion,
the fifth band portion is formed at a position closer to the second band portion than the sixth band portion is,
the seventh band portion is formed at a position closer to the fourth band portion than the eighth band portion is,
a distance between the second band portion and the fifth band portion is set smaller than a distance between the fifth band portion and the sixth band portion,
a distance between the fourth band portion and the seventh band portion is set to be larger than a distance between the seventh band portion and the eighth band portion,
The fixing portion is formed by applying an adhesive,
The filter body further includes a marking portion formed by applying an adhesive to an inner portion of the filter body in a marking shape to indicate when the filter structure should be replaced,
The sign portion is composed of a plurality of sign elements,
the plurality of sign elements are formed to be scattered in an island shape in an area surrounded by each of the band-shaped portions of the outer circumferential portion and each of the band-shaped portions of the lattice portion,
The sign element is sized to fit within a range formed by a square or rectangle having one side of 6 to 15 mm and the other side of 6 to 15 mm,
The plurality of sign elements are provided in such a manner that adjacent sign elements are shifted from each other either vertically or horizontally,
The filter body is set to a size of 35 to 45 cm in length and 19 to 38 cm in width,
The filter structure has an adhesive pattern in which the fixing portion is cut along any of the fifth band portion, the sixth band portion, the seventh band portion, or the eighth band portion depending on the vertical or horizontal size of the rear air intake of the air purifier, and surrounds the periphery of the rear air intake of the air purifier. An intake structure (70) for an air purifier,
A rear air intake port is provided on the rear of the air purifier and has a size of 33 to 55 cm in height and 19 to 38 cm in width;
7. An air intake structure for an air purifier comprising: a filter structure according to claim 1 , which is attached in alignment with an outer periphery of the rear air intake port.

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