KR20240158472A - Humidifier - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a humidifier. The humidifier of the present disclosure may include: a case having an intake port and an exhaust port formed therein; a blower fan disposed inside the case and forming an airflow from the intake port to the exhaust port; and a humidifying module located downstream of the blower fan in the airflow direction and generating humidified air, wherein an airflow path through which an airflow flows is formed between the humidifying module and the inner surface of the case, and the humidifying module may include: a humidifying tank in which humidified air is generated; an air supply pipe disposed in the airflow path and guiding the airflow into the interior of the humidifying tank; and a guide vane located below an inlet of the air supply pipe.

Description

Humidifier {HUMIDIFIER}

The present disclosure relates to a humidifier, and more particularly, to a humidifier that discharges humidified air evenly and smoothly in all directions.

A humidifier is a device that vaporizes water and emits humidified air with a high moisture content. A humidifier can vaporize water by natural vaporization, heating vaporization, or ultrasonic vibration to create humidified air.

The 'humidifier' disclosed in Korean Patent Registration No. 10-2500340 includes: a first space for storing water; a second space in which humidified air is generated at a lower portion of the first space; and a main body including a discharge path located at an upper portion of the second space through which the humidified air is discharged; a vibrator disposed on a bottom surface of the second space for generating humidified air; and a blower fan forming an airflow supplied to the second space.

The above conventional humidifier has a problem in that the airflow formed by the blower fan includes a rotational motion component, and thus is not uniformly discharged into the indoor space through the discharge path. As a result, there is a problem in that the generated humidified air is not uniformly distributed in all directions, but is discharged biased to one side.

In addition, since the humidified air is not discharged evenly in all directions through the discharge port, there is a problem of causing temperature imbalance around the humidifier.

Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0031157 A (Publication date 2023.03.07.)

An object of the present disclosure may be to provide a humidifier that uniformly discharges humidified air in all directions.

Another object of the present disclosure may be to provide a humidifier having improved humidifying performance.

Another object of the present disclosure may be to provide a humidifier having improved humidification capacity.

Another object of the present disclosure may be to provide a humidifier in which temperature imbalance around the humidifier is improved.

Another object of the present disclosure may be to provide a humidifier with improved user comfort.

The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-described object, a humidifier comprises: a case having an inlet and an outlet formed therein; a blower fan disposed inside the case and forming an airflow from the inlet to the outlet; and a humidifying module located downstream of the blower fan in the airflow direction and generating humidified air, wherein an airflow path through which an airflow flows is formed between the humidifying module and the inner surface of the case, and the humidifying module comprises: a humidifying tank having a chamber in which humidified air is generated; an air supply pipe disposed in the airflow path and guiding the airflow to an upper side of a bottom surface of the chamber; and a guide vane located below an inlet of the air supply pipe, so that the flow direction of the airflow introduced into the air supply pipe can be controlled due to the guide vane.

The above blower fan is located at the lower side of the humidifying module and can form a spiral rising airflow toward the blower path.

The upper end of the above guide vane is located at the inlet of the air supply pipe, and the guide vane can control the direction of air flow and guide it to flow into the air supply pipe.

The above guide vane includes: a plurality of guide vanes extending in the vertical direction, and the plurality of guide vanes are positioned below the inlet of the air supply pipe and can be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cross section of the air blower passage.

The above plurality of guide vanes have a length that gradually increases in the vertical direction as they move apart from each other, so that they can efficiently distribute and guide the air flow flowing into the air supply pipe.

A virtual straight line connecting the lower ends of the above-mentioned plurality of guide vanes is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction, so as to guide and evenly distribute the air flow flowing into the air supply pipe.

The above plurality of guide vanes gradually increase in length in the vertical direction in a direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the blower fan, thereby efficiently distributing and guiding the air flow flowing into the air supply pipe.

The plurality of guide vanes described above have a vertical length that gradually decreases as they move away from the center of the inlet of the air supply pipe, so that the air flow introduced into the air supply pipe can be distributed regardless of the rotational direction of the blower fan.

A guide tube is disposed in the chamber and positioned at the outlet of the air supply pipe, wherein the guide tube extends in the vertical direction and guides the air flow introduced into the air supply pipe to the bottom surface of the chamber, so that the introduced air flow can efficiently pull the humidified air remaining on the upper side of the water stored in the tank.

The above guide tube includes: an inlet guide extending in the vertical direction and guiding airflow introduced into the air supply pipe to the bottom surface of the chamber; a first bypass guide extending from one end of the inlet guide; and a second bypass guide extending from the other end of the inlet guide, wherein the first bypass guide and the second bypass guide are bent and extended in a direction away from the air supply pipe, so that a flow path can be branched due to the first bypass guide and the second bypass guide.

The extended length of the above first bypass guide is longer than the extended length of the above second bypass guide, so that the resistance of the branched flow path can be formed differently.

The blower fan is positioned below the humidifying module and rotates in a first direction to form a spiral upward airflow toward the blower path, the first bypass guide extends from the inlet guide in the first direction, the second bypass guide extends from the inlet guide in a direction opposite to the first direction, and the extended length of the first guide is longer than the extended length of the second guide, so that the resistance of the branched path can be formed differently.

The above inlet guide: includes an inlet slit extending in the vertical direction at the center, so that the inlet airflow can pass through the inlet slit.

The above guide tube includes: a first discharge guide extending from a side end of the first bypass guide; and a second discharge guide extending from a side end of the second bypass guide, wherein the first discharge guide and the second discharge guide can be spaced apart from each other to form a discharge opening.

The lower end of the first discharge guide and the lower end of the second discharge guide may be inclined upward in the extended direction, so that the width of the discharge opening may become narrower as it goes upward.

Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a guide vane located on the inlet side of the air supply pipe can attenuate a rotational motion component of air flow flowing into the air supply pipe, and reduce a deviation in the amount of humidified air supplied in each direction of an indoor space.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, due to the guide vane located on the inlet side of the air supply pipe, the rotational motion component of the air flow flowing into the air supply pipe can be attenuated, and the temperature difference of the humidified air discharged in each direction of the indoor space can be reduced.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the length of the plurality of guide vanes gradually increases as they move apart from each other, thereby increasing the amount of airflow that rotates in a spiral shape and flows upward into the air supply pipe, thereby improving the humidifying performance.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the length of the plurality of guide vanes extending in the vertical direction gradually increases in a direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the blower fan, thereby increasing the amount of airflow flowing upward while rotating in a spiral shape and flowing into the air supply pipe, thereby improving the humidifying performance.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the airflow introduced into the air supply pipe can smoothly pull the humidified air staying on the upper side of the water surface due to the guide pipe guiding the airflow introduced into the air supply pipe to the bottom surface of the chamber. Accordingly, the moisture content included in the humidified air can be increased, and the humidifying performance can be improved.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the rotational motion component of the airflow formed by the blower fan can be attenuated due to the first bypass guide and the second bypass guide which branch the flow path within the chamber and adjust the relative flow resistance ratio of each flow path. As a result, the imbalance in the temperature and humidification amount of the humidified air discharged in each direction of the indoor space can be improved.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, airflow can be smoothly introduced into the interior of the humidifying tank due to the inlet slit formed in the guide tube. As a result, humidifying performance can be improved.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, due to the discharge opening formed between the first discharge guide and the second discharge guide, humidified air within the chamber can smoothly flow into the guide tube, thereby improving humidifying performance.

According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the lower end of the first exhaust guide and the lower end of the second exhaust guide may be formed diagonally, so that the width of the exhaust opening may become narrower as it goes upward. As a result, the humidified air within the chamber may smoothly flow into the guide tube, and the loss of the humidified air volume may be minimized.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a blower module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a euro unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a combined euro unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a humidifying module and a euro unit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a combination of a middle tray, a humidifying module, and a display according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a humidifying module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a humidifying module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a portion of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a main housing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a humidifying module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 14 is a photograph showing an airflow formed by a blower fan according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a humidifying module according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 16 is a side view of a humidifying module according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 17 is a graph of a discharge temperature experiment of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 18 is a bottom perspective view of a compartment cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 19 is a side view of a compartment cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 20 is a drawing of a guide tube according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 21 is an elevational view of a compartment cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
Figure 22 is a graph showing the experimental results comparing the airflow of humidifiers according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or similar components are given the same reference numbers and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

The suffixes “module” and “part” used for components in the following description are given or used interchangeably only for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not have distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. In addition, the attached drawings are only intended to facilitate easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

When it is said that a component is “connected” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is said that a component is “directly connected” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

In this application, it should be understood that terms such as “comprises” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

The direction indications of up (U), down (D), left (Le), right (Ri), front (F), back (R), and out (O) shown in the drawings are only for the convenience of explanation, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited thereby.

Referring to FIG. 1, the humidifier (1) may include a case (10) forming an outer shape, a stand (16) supporting the case, a discharge grill (160) arranged in a discharge port formed in the case, and a water tank cover (150).

The case (10) can form the exterior of the humidifier (1). The case (10) can be extended in a vertical direction. For example, the case (10) can have a cylindrical shape that is extended in a vertical direction. The case (10) can include an internal space. The humidifying module (200) described below can be placed in the internal space of the case (10).

The case (10) may include an inlet (not shown). The inlet may be a through-hole formed in the case (10). The inlet may be formed on a side surface of the case (10). The inlet may be formed on a peripheral surface of the case (10). For example, the inlet may be a through-hole formed on a peripheral surface of the case (10). The case (10) may include an outlet (not shown). Humidified air may be supplied to an indoor space through the outlet of the case (10). The outlet may be formed on an upper side of the case (10). The case (10) may be open at the upper side, and the outlet may be an opening formed at the upper side of the case (10). For example, the outlet may be an annular outlet opened on an upper surface of a cylindrical case (10). Indoor air that enters through the inlet may be discharged through the outlet together with the humidified air.

The humidifier (1) may include a stand (16) that supports the case (10). The stand (16) may be placed on the lower side of the case (10). The stand (16) may be fixed to the case (10). The stand (16) may prevent the case (10) from falling over. The diameter of the stand (16) may be larger than the diameter of the case (10). The outer circumference of the stand (16) may be located on the outer side in the horizontal direction than the peripheral wall of the case (10).

The discharge grill (160) can be placed at the discharge port. The discharge grill (160) can be placed at the open upper side of the case (10). The discharge grill (160) can be placed at the discharge port. The discharge grill (160) can form the upper surface of the case (10). Humidified air can pass through the discharge grill (160) and be supplied to the indoor space.

The tank cover (150) may be placed on the opened upper side of the case (10). The tank cover (150) may be placed at the center of the discharge grill (160). The discharge grill (160) may be placed on the outer side of the tank cover (150). The tank cover (150) may cover the tank (110) described below. The tank cover (150) may be a lid of the tank (110). The tank cover (150) may be detachable from the discharge grill (160). For example, a user may separate the tank cover (150) from the discharge grill to supply water to the tank (110). After supplying water, the user may attach the tank cover (150) to the discharge grill (160).

Referring to FIG. 2, a flow mechanism of a humidifier (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. The humidifier (1) may include a case (10), a water tank (110) storing water, a humidifying module (200) generating humidified air, and a blower fan (350) forming an air current flowing inside the case (10).

Indoor air can be drawn in through an intake port (310) formed in the case (10) (Fi). The intake port (310) can be formed at the bottom of the case (10). Air drawn into the interior of the case (10) can flow through a path formed inside (Fi). Air flowing inside the case (10) can be discharged back into the indoor space through an outlet port (1600) formed at the top (Fi). At this time, the humidity of the discharged air can be higher than the humidity of the inhaled air.

The water tank (110) can store water. The water tank (110) can include a water storage space (1100) in which water is stored. The water stored in the water storage space (1100) can be supplied to the humidifying module (200) (Fs1). The humidifying module (200) can generate humidified air using the supplied water.

The humidifying module (200) can generate humidified air. The humidified air can include mist and/or water vapor. That is, the humidified air can refer to air including mist and/or water vapor. The humidity of the humidified air can be higher than the humidity of indoor air.

The humidifying module (200) may include a first humidifying tank (230). Water supplied from the tank (110) may flow into the first humidifying tank (230) (Fs1). The first humidifying tank (230) may heat the water supplied from the tank (110). The first humidifying tank (230) may heat and sterilize the supplied water. In addition, the first humidifying tank (230) may heat the supplied water to generate humidified air.

The humidifying module (200) may include a second humidifying tank (260). The water sterilized in the first humidifying tank (230) may move to the second humidifying tank (260) (Fs1). The second humidifying tank (260) may generate humidified air using the water supplied from the first humidifying tank (230). The second humidifying tank (260) may generate humidified air using any one of an ultrasonic method, a heating method, an evaporation method, and a disk method. For example, the second humidifying tank (260) may generate humidified air by atomizing the supplied water using an ultrasonic vibrator (see FIG. 12, 262).

The blower fan (350) may be placed inside the case (10). The blower fan (350) may be placed at the bottom of the humidifying module (200). The blower fan (350) may form an airflow flowing inside the case (10). The blower fan (350) may form an airflow flowing from the intake port (310) to the discharge port (1600) (Fi). For example, the blower fan (350) may form an upward airflow flowing from the intake port (310) formed at the bottom of the case (10) to the discharge port (1600) formed at the top of the case (10). The blower fan (350) may be located upstream of the humidifying module (200) in the airflow direction. For example, in a case (10) having an intake port (310) formed at the bottom and an exhaust port (1600) formed at the top, a humidifying module (200) and a blower fan (350) are arranged inside the case, and the blower fan (350) may be located at the bottom of the humidifying module (200). The humidifying module (200) may be located at the top of the blower fan (350).

The case (10) may include a blower passage (390). The blower passage (390) may be formed on the inside of the case (10). The blower passage (390) may be a passage through which air blown from a blower fan (350) flows. Air drawn in through the intake port (310) may flow to the blower fan (350) through the intake passage (330) (Fi). Air passing through the blower fan (350) may flow through the blower passage (390) (Fi).

The case (10) may include a discharge path (1000). The discharge path (1000) may be formed on the inside of the case (10). Air passing through the blower path (390) may flow to the discharge path (1000) (Fd). The discharge path (1000) may be located above the blower path (390). The discharge path (1000) may be located on the downstream side of the blower path (390).

The discharge path (1000) may include a first discharge path (1000a) and a second discharge path (1000b). The discharge port (1600) may include a first discharge port (1600a) corresponding to the first discharge path (1000a) and a second discharge port (1600b) corresponding to the second discharge path (1000b). The second discharge path (1000b) may be formed on the inside of the case (10). The first discharge path (1000a) may be formed on the inside of the second discharge path (1000b). The second discharge path (1000b) may be connected to the air blower path (390). The second discharge path (1000b) may be located on the downstream side of the air blower path (390). Some of the air passing through the blower path (390) can rise through the second discharge path (1000b) (Fd2). The air passing through the second discharge path (1000b) can be supplied to the indoor space through the second discharge port (1600b) (Fd2). The remaining part of the air passing through the blower path (390) can flow to the humidifying module (200) (Fs2). The remaining part of the air passing through the blower path (390) can flow to the second humidifying tank (260) (Fs2). The remaining part of the air flowing into the second humidifying tank (260) can flow to the first discharge path (1000a) together with the humidified air generated in the second humidifying tank (260) (Fd1). Humidified air flowing through the first discharge path (1000a) can be supplied to an indoor space through the first discharge port (1600a) (Fd1).

Referring to FIG. 3, a detailed structure of a humidifier according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Referring to FIG. 3, a humidifier (1) may include a blower module (300) that forms an airflow, a humidifying module (200) that generates humidified air, a flow path unit (100) through which an airflow and the generated humidified air flow, a display (500) exposed to one side of a case (10), and an electric part (380).

The blower module (300) can form an airflow. The blower module (300) can be placed inside the case (10). The blower module (300) can form an airflow flowing inside the case (10). The blower module (300) can introduce indoor air into the case (10) through the intake port (310). The blower module (300) can blow the intaked air to the humidifying module (200) and/or the flow unit (100). The blower module (300) can form an airflow that pulls the humidified air generated in the humidifying module (200). The blower module (300) can provide power to discharge the humidified air generated in the humidifying module (200) into an indoor space.

The humidifying module (200) can generate humidified air. The humidifying module (200) can be placed inside the case (10). The humidifying module (200) can be placed above the blower module (300). The humidifying module (200) can discharge humidified air. The rising air current formed from the blower module (300) can be directed to the humidifying module (200) through the blower path (390). The rising air current can pull the humidified air generated from the humidifying module (200) upward. The humidified air can be discharged through the discharge port (1600) together with the rising air current.

The euro unit (100) may include a path through which air is discharged. The euro unit (100) may include a discharge path (1000). The discharge path (1000) may include a first discharge path (1000a) and a second discharge path (1000b). Humidified air generated in the humidifying module (200) may flow to a first discharge port (1600a) through the first discharge path (1000a). The humidified air may be supplied to an indoor space through the first discharge port (1600a). A portion of the air flowing through the blower path (390) may flow to the second discharge port (1600b) through the second discharge path (1000b). The portion of the air may be supplied to an indoor space through the second discharge port (1600b).

The display (500) can display information of the humidifier (1). The display (500) can include an output section that displays information of the humidifier (1) to the user. The information of the humidifier (1) can include information such as the water level stored in the water tank (110), the amount of humidification discharged, the temperature and humidity of the indoor space, the air quality of the indoor space, and the concentration of fine dust in the indoor space. The display (500) can include an input section where a user's command is input. The user can control the operation of the humidifier (1) through the display (500). For example, the user can control the amount of humidification, the amount of wind, the operation time, the on-off of the lighting, the intensity of the lighting, etc. through the display (500).

The electrical part (380) can transmit and receive electrical signals. The electrical part (380) can control the operation of the humidifier (1). The electrical part (380) can control the power supplied to the humidifier (1).

Referring to FIG. 4, the detailed structure of the blower module (300) will be described. Referring to FIG. 4, the blower module (300) may include a filter (320), a blower fan (350), and a blower motor (352).

Indoor air can be sucked into the blower module (300) through the suction port (310) formed in the case (10). The blower module (300) can include a filter (320) that filters the sucked air. The filter (320) can be placed inside the case (10). For example, the filter (320) can be placed inside the cylindrical case (10) and formed in a cylindrical shape. The filter (320) can face the suction port (310) on the inside of the case (10). The air that passes through the filter (320) can flow to the blower fan (350) through the suction path (330). The suction path (330) can be formed inside the filter (320).

The blower module (300) may include an orifice (340) positioned between the blower fan (350) and the filter (320). The orifice (340) may be a hole through which sucked air passes. The orifice (340) may be positioned between the suction path (330) and the blower path (390). The orifice (340) may connect the suction path (330) and the blower path (390). The orifice (340) may correspond to an inlet (not shown) formed in the blower fan (350). That is, the orifice (340) may correspond to an inlet formed in a shroud of the blower fan (350). The sucked air may be introduced from the suction path (330) to the blower fan (350) through the orifice (340) and may flow to the blower path (390) by the rotation of the blower fan (350).

The blower module (300) may include a blower motor (352) that rotates a blower fan (350). The blower motor (352) may be connected to the blower fan (350). For example, a shaft (354) of the blower motor (352) may be connected to the blower fan (350). The blower motor (352) may be arranged above the blower fan (350). The shaft (354) may extend downward from the blower motor (352) and may be connected to a hub of the blower fan (350). The blower fan (350) may rotate and an airflow may be formed according to the driving of the blower motor (352).

The blower module (300) may include a motor cover (360) in which a blower motor (352) is disposed. The blower motor (352) may be accommodated in the motor cover (360). The blower motor (352) may be disposed on the inside of the motor cover (360), and the blower fan (350) may be disposed on the outside of the motor cover (360). For example, the blower fan (350) may be disposed on the lower side of the motor cover (360). The shaft (354) of the blower motor (352) may penetrate the motor cover (360).

The blower module (300) may include a blower housing (370) forming a blower path (390). The blower housing (370) may be placed inside the case (10). A blower fan (350) and a blower motor (352) may be placed inside the blower housing (370). A blower path (390) may be formed between the motor cover (360) and the blower housing (370). The blower housing (370) may extend in a vertical direction.

The case (10) may include an inner case (14) and an outer case (12). The outer case (12) may form an outer shape of the case (10). The outer case (12) may include a plurality of louvers (12a). The plurality of louvers (12a) may be arranged along the periphery of the outer case (12). The inner case (14) may be arranged on the inner side of the outer case (12). The inner case (14) may be arranged on the upper side of the blower housing (370). For example, the inner case (14) and the blower housing (370) may be arranged on the inner side of the outer case (12), and the inner case (14) may be coupled to the upper side of the blower housing (370).

The airflow path (390) may be formed on the inside of the case (10). The airflow path (390) may extend upward and downward from the inside of the case (10). The airflow path (390) may have an annular cross section. The airflow path (390) may be located on the downstream side of the airflow fan (350). The airflow fan (350) may be located between the suction path (330) and the airflow path (390). The motor cover (360) may be arranged on the inside of the airflow housing (370). The airflow path (390) may be formed between the motor cover (360) and the airflow housing (370).

A power unit (380) may be placed on the upper side of the blower motor (352). The power unit (380) may be placed inside the inner case (14). A blower path (390) may be formed between the power unit (380) and the inner case (14). Accordingly, the sucked air may be directed to the humidifying module (200) along the blower path (390) by the blower fan (350).

The blower module (300) may include an air diffuser (372) disposed in the blower passage (390). The air diffuser (372) may control the directionality of the air flow flowing in the blower passage (390). For example, the air diffuser (372) may straighten the air flow flowing in the blower passage (390). The air diffuser (372) may be disposed on the outside of the motor cover (360). The air diffuser (372) may be disposed on the inside of the blower housing (370). For example, the air diffuser (372) may be a plurality of air diffusers (372) disposed between the motor cover (360) and the blower housing (370), and the plurality of air diffusers (372) may be disposed spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cross section of the blower passage (390). A path can be formed between multiple air diffusers (372).

Referring to FIG. 5, a euro unit (100) through which humidified air flows and is discharged will be described. Referring to FIG. 5, the euro unit (100) may include a shell (130, 140), a discharge grill (160), and a tank cover (150).

The euro unit (100) may include a shell (130, 140). The case (10) may include the shell (130, 140). The shell (130, 140) may form an outer appearance of the euro unit (100). The shell (130, 140) may have an accommodation space formed therein. The tank (110) may be accommodated in the shell (130, 140). A discharge passage (1000) may be formed inside the shell (130, 140). The shell (130, 140) may have an open upper side. A discharge port (1600) may be formed on the upper side of the shell (130, 140).

The discharge grille (160) may be positioned on the upper side of the shell (130, 140). The discharge grille (160) may be positioned at the discharge port (1600). The discharge grille (160) may be positioned on the upper side of the shell (130, 140). For example, the discharge grille (160) may extend along the inner circumference of the upper side of the shell (130, 140). The discharge grille (160) may include a plurality of vanes.

The tank cover (150) may be placed on the upper side of the shell (130, 140). The tank cover (150) may cover the opened upper side of the tank (110). The tank cover (150) may open or close the tank (110). The tank cover (150) may be placed on the inner side of the discharge grill (160). The tank cover (150) may be placed at the center of the annular discharge grill (160). For example, the tank (110) may be placed at the center of the shell (130, 140), and the tank cover (150) may cover the opened upper side of the tank (110).

Referring to FIG. 6, a detailed configuration of the euro unit (100) will be described. Referring to FIG. 6, the euro unit (100) may include a water tank (110) for storing water, a water tank cover (150) covering an opening of the water tank (110), a water tank housing (120) for accommodating the water tank (110), an inner shell (130) for accommodating the water tank housing (120), an outer shell (140) for accommodating the inner shell (130) and forming an outer appearance of the euro unit (100), and a discharge grill (160).

The tank (110) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The tank (110) may extend in a vertical direction. The tank (110) may have a water storage space (1100) formed inside. The discharge grill (160) may extend along the perimeter of the upper portion of the tank (110). The discharge grill (160) may be arranged on the outer side of the upper portion of the tank (110). The tank (110) may include a tank peripheral wall (112) forming an outer shape. The tank peripheral wall (112) may partition the water storage space (1100) of the tank (110).

The tank housing (120) can accommodate the tank (110). The tank housing (120) can have an internal space formed in which the tank (110) is placed. The tank housing (120) can surround the tank (110). The tank housing (120) can be a holder of the tank (110). The tank housing (120) can cover the tank peripheral wall (112) of the tank (110). The tank (110) can be fitted into the tank housing (120). The tank peripheral wall (112) can be in close contact with the inner peripheral wall of the tank housing (120). The tank housing (120) can fix the inserted tank (110) so that it does not move in a horizontal direction. The tank housing (120) can maintain the tank (110) horizontal so that it does not fall over inside the case (10). The tank housing (120) and the tank (110) can each be separated from the case (10). The tank housing (120) can include a housing peripheral wall (122) that partitions the internal space.

The shell (130, 140) may include an inner shell (130). The case (10) may include an inner shell (130). The inner shell (130) may accommodate a tank (110) and/or a tank housing (120). The inner shell (130) may be spaced outwardly from the tank (110) and/or the tank housing (120). A first discharge path (1000a) may be formed between the inner shell (130) and the tank housing (120). The first discharge path (1000a) may also be formed between the tank (110) and the inner shell (130). A second discharge path (1000b) may be formed between the inner shell (130) and the inner surface of the case (10). Humidified air generated from the humidifying module (200) can flow through the first discharge path (1000a). The inner shell (130) can partition the first discharge path (1000a) and the second discharge path (1000b). The inner shell (130) can include an inner peripheral wall (132) that partitions the internal space.

The shell (130, 140) may include an outer shell (140). The case (10) may include an outer shell (140). The outer shell (140) may form an outer appearance of the euro unit (100). The outer shell (140) may have an internal space formed therein. The outer shell (140) may be opened at the top. The outer shell (140) may accommodate a tank (110), a tank housing (120), and/or an inner shell (130). The outer shell (140) may be spaced outwardly from the tank (110), the tank housing (120), and/or the inner shell (130). The discharge path (1000) may be formed on the inside of the outer shell (140). A discharge path (1000) may be formed between the outer shell (140) and the tank (110). For example, a first discharge path (1000a) may be formed between the tank housing (120) and the inner shell (130), and a second discharge path (1000b) may be formed between the inner shell (130) and the outer shell (140). The outer shell (140) may include an outer peripheral wall (142) that partitions the internal space.

Referring to FIG. 7, humidified air discharged from the humidifying module (200) can be discharged into an indoor space through the euro unit (100).

The humidifying module (200) may include a main housing (2000), a supply pipe (210), and a humid air outlet (2742).

The main housing (2000) can form the outer shape of the humidifying module (200).

The water stored in the water storage space (1100) can be introduced into the humidifying module (200) through the supply pipe (210). The humidifying module (200) can generate humidified air using the water supplied through the supply pipe (210). The supply pipe (210) can be arranged on the upper side of the humidifying module (200). The supply pipe (210) can be extended upward. For example, the water stored in the water storage space (1100) located on the upper side of the humidifying module (200) can be introduced through the supply pipe (210) arranged on the upper side of the humidifying module (200).

Humidified air generated in the humidifying module (200) can be discharged through the humidifying air outlet (2742). The humidifying air outlet (2742) can be formed on the upper side of the humidifying module (200). The humidifying air outlet (2742) can be opened on the upper surface of the humidifying module (200).

The middle tray (400) can be placed on the upper side of the humidifying module (200). The middle tray (400) can be coupled to the upper surface of the humidifying module (200). The middle tray (400) can be placed between the humidifying module (200) and the euro unit (100).

The display (500) may be placed on one side of the humidifying module (200). The display (500) may be coupled to one side of the main housing (2000). The display (500) may be coupled to one side of the middle tray (400). For example, the middle tray (400) may be placed on the upper surface of the humidifying module (200), and the display (500) may be placed on the side of the humidifying module (200).

The euro unit (100) may include a reservoir space (1100), a discharge path (1000), and a discharge port (1600).

A water storage space (1100) may be formed inside the euro unit (100). Water stored in the water storage space (1100) may be supplied to the humidifying module (200). For example, water stored in the water storage space (1100) may be supplied to the humidifying module (200) through a supply pipe (210) located at the bottom.

The discharge path (1000) may be located inside the euro unit (100). The discharge path (1000) may be located outside the reservoir space (1100). The discharge path (1000) may be located between the peripheral wall of the euro unit (100) and the reservoir space (1100). The discharge path (1000) may include a first discharge path (1000a) located outside the reservoir space (1100) and a second discharge path (1000b) located outside the first discharge path (1000a). The first discharge path (1000a) may be located between the reservoir space (1100) and the second discharge path (1000b). The second discharge path (1000b) can be located between the first discharge path (1000a) and the peripheral wall of the path unit (100).

Humidified air discharged from the humidifying module (200) can flow through the discharge path (1000). For example, humidified air discharged from the humid air discharge port (2742) can flow through the first discharge path (1000a). Humidified air flowing through the first discharge path (1000a) can be supplied to an indoor space through the discharge port (1600). The first discharge path (1000a) and the second discharge path (1000b) can be combined at the discharge port (1600). The first discharge path (1000a) can be connected to the humid air discharge port (2742). The second discharge path (1000b) can be connected to the blower path (390).

Referring to FIG. 8, the middle tray (400) can be coupled to the upper side of the humidifying module (200), and the display (500) can be coupled to the side of the humidifying module (200) and the middle tray (400).

The middle tray (400) may be mounted on the upper side of the humidifying module (200). The supply pipe (210) of the humidifying module (200) may pass through the middle tray (400). The supply pipe (210) of the humidifying module (200) may be arranged in the middle inlet (4002) of the middle tray (400). The middle tray (400) may include a middle outlet (4004) corresponding to the humid air outlet (2742) of the humidifying module (200).

The display (500) can be coupled to the side of the humidifying module (200). The middle tray (400) can be coupled to the upper side of the humidifying module (200), and the display (500) can be coupled to the side of the middle tray (400) and the side of the humidifying module (200).

The display (500) may include a display housing (510) that forms an outer shape of the display (500). The display housing (510) may be open at one end. The display housing (510) may be closed at the other end. The one end and the other end may be opposite each other. For example, the display housing (510) may be open at one end facing the humidifying module (200), and closed at the other end facing the one end and the outside.

The middle tray (400) may include a joining cover (436). The joining cover (436) may extend from a side of the middle tray (400). The joining cover (436) may cover a side of the display housing (510). The joining cover (436) may correspond to a side of the display housing (510).

The joining cover (436) may include an upper cover (4362) covering an upper surface of the display housing (510). The upper cover (4362) may cover at least a portion of the upper surface of the display housing (510). The upper cover (4362) may cover a gap formed between the display housing (510) and the middle tray (400).

The coupling cover (436) may include a side cover (4364) covering a side surface of the display housing (510). The side cover (4364) may extend from the upper cover (4362). For example, the side cover (4364) may extend downwardly from the upper cover (4362). The side cover (4364) may cover at least a portion of the side surface of the display housing (510). The side cover (4364) may cover a gap formed between the display housing (510) and the middle tray (400).

The display (500) may be coupled to the middle tray (400). The display housing (510) may be fastened to the middle tray (400). The upper surface of the display housing (510) may be fastened to the upper cover (4362). The upper cover (4362) may include a first upper fastening portion (4365). The display housing (510) may include a second upper fastening portion (512) formed on the upper surface. The second upper fastening portion (512) may correspond to the first upper fastening portion (4365). For example, the first upper fastening portion (4365) and the second upper fastening portion (512) may be fastened by screws.

The display (500) can be coupled to the humidifying module (200). The display housing (510) can be fastened to a side of the main housing (2000). The main housing (2000) can include a first side fastening portion (2004). The display housing (510) can include a second side fastening portion (514) formed on a side. The second side fastening portion (514) can correspond to the first side fastening portion (2004). For example, the first side fastening portion (2004) and the second side fastening portion (514) can be fastened by screws.

Referring to FIG. 9, the humidifying module (200) may include a first humidifying tank (230) that heats supplied water, a second humidifying tank (260) that generates humidified air using the supplied water, a main cover (2020) that covers the first humidifying tank (230) and the second humidifying tank (260), and a compartment cover (270) coupled to the main cover (2020).

The first humidifying tank (230) may include a heater (250) for heating the stored water. The heater (250) may be placed on the lower side of the first humidifying tank (230). For example, the heater (250) may form the bottom surface of the first humidifying tank (230). The second humidifying tank (260) may be placed on one side of the first humidifying tank (230). The second humidifying tank (260) may receive sterilized water from the first humidifying tank (230).

The main cover (2020) can be placed on the upper side of the first humidifying tank (230) and the second humidifying tank (260). The main cover (2020) can cover the opened upper side of the first humidifying tank (230) and the opened upper side of the second humidifying tank (260). The main cover (2020) can be fixed to the first humidifying tank (230) and the second humidifying tank (260). The middle tray (400) can be coupled to the main cover (2020).

The compartment cover (270) may be fixed to the main cover (2020). The compartment cover (270) may be placed in the second humidifying tank (260). The compartment cover (270) may guide the airflow flowing through the blower passage (390) into the interior of the second humidifying tank (260). The compartment cover (270) may discharge humidified air generated in the second humidifying tank (260) upward. The compartment cover (270) may include a discharge pipe (274) placed in the second humidifying tank (260). The compartment cover (270) may include a humid air discharge port (2742) opened upward. The humid air discharge port (2742) may be formed at one end of the discharge pipe (274).

The supply pipe (210) may protrude upward from the main cover (2020). The humidifying module (200) may include a first valve (212) that opens or closes a path through which water flows to the first humidifying tank (230) through the supply pipe (210). The first valve (212) may be arranged on the upper side of the main cover (2020).

Referring to FIG. 10, the humidifying module (200) may include a supply pipe (210), a first valve (212), a first humidifying tank (230), a first connecting pipe (240), a second humidifying tank (260), and a compartment cover (270).

The supply pipe (210) may be a pipe through which water is supplied to the humidifying module (200). The supply pipe (210) may be connected to the first humidifying tank (230) or the second humidifying tank (260). Water stored in the tank (110) may be supplied to the humidifying module (200) through the supply pipe (210). For example, water stored in the tank (110) may be moved to the first humidifying tank (230) through the supply pipe (210). A supply chamber (2100) may be formed inside the supply pipe (210). Water introduced into the supply pipe (210) may pass through the supply chamber (2100) and flow into the heating tank. Water introduced into the supply pipe (210) may be temporarily stored in the supply chamber (2100).

The first valve (212) can control the flow of water supplied to the humidifying module (200) through the supply pipe (210). For example, when the first valve (212) is opened, water stored in the supply chamber (2100) can move to the first humidifying tank (230). Conversely, when the first valve (212) is closed, the supplied water can be temporarily stored in the supply chamber (2100). The first valve (212) can be opened and closed according to an electrical signal of the electric unit (380). The first valve (212) can receive power from the electric unit (380). For example, the first valve (212) can be a solenoid valve. The first valve (212) can be arranged on the upper side of the first humidifying tank (230). The first valve (212) can be arranged in the supply pipe (210). For example, the first valve (212) may be positioned between the first humidifying tank (230) and the supply pipe (210). The first valve (212) may be spaced upwardly from the first humidifying tank (230). For example, the first valve (212) may be positioned upwardly spaced from the upper surface of the first humidifying tank (230).

The first humidifying tank (230) may be placed inside the main housing (2000). The first humidifying tank (230) may heat water introduced through the supply pipe (210). The first humidifying tank (230) may include a first chamber (2300) in which water is stored. The water stored in the first chamber (2300) may be heated. The first humidifying tank (230) may include a first humidifying tank wall (232) that partitions the first chamber (2300). The first humidifying tank (230) may heat and sterilize water. The water heated in the first humidifying tank (230) may flow to the second humidifying tank (260). The first humidifying tank (230) may include a heater (250) that heats the water stored in the first chamber. The heater (250) can form the lower surface of the first humidifying tank wall (232). The heater (250) can form the bottom surface of the first chamber (2300). For example, the heater (250) and the first humidifying tank wall (232) can partition the first chamber (2300) that is opened upward.

The second humidifying tank (260) can generate humidified air using the supplied water. The humidified air can refer to air including mist and/or water vapor. The second humidifying tank (260) can generate humidified air using any one of an ultrasonic method, a heating method, an evaporation method, and a disk method. For example, the second humidifying tank (260) can generate humidified air by atomizing the supplied water using an ultrasonic vibrator. The humidifying tank can be equipped with an ultrasonic vibrator (262). The second humidifying tank (260) can include a second chamber (2600) in which humidified air is generated.

The first connecting pipe (240) may be a pipe through which water stored in the first humidifying tank (230) flows to the second humidifying tank (260). The first connecting pipe (240) may connect the first chamber (2300) and the second chamber (2600). The height of the first connecting pipe (240) may decrease as it goes downstream. The first connecting pipe (240) may be inclined downward toward the downstream side. The first connecting pipe (240) may have high thermal conductivity. The temperature of water heated in the first humidifying tank (230) may decrease as it flows through the first connecting pipe (240).

The ultrasonic vibrator (262) may be placed on the bottom surface of the second humidifying tank (260). The ultrasonic vibrator (262) may be placed on the lower side of the second chamber (2600). The ultrasonic vibrator (262) may split the supplied water into fine particles using ultrasonic vibration. The ultrasonic vibrator (262) may atomize the supplied water electrically. For example, the ultrasonic vibrator (262) may include a piezoelectric element.

The compartment cover (270) may be placed on the upper side of the main housing (2000). The compartment cover (270) may cover the upper side of the second humidifying tank (260). The compartment cover (270) may partition a flow path flowing into the second humidifying tank (260) and a flow path flowing out of the second humidifying tank (260). For example, the compartment cover (270) may include an air supply pipe (210) which is a flow path through which a portion of the rising air flowing in the blower passage (390) flows into the second humidifying tank (260), and an exhaust pipe (274) through which a portion of the rising air flowing into the second humidifying tank (260) and the smoke stagnant in the second humidifying tank (260) are discharged together.

The air supply pipe (210) can connect the airflow path (390) and the second humidifying tank (260). The air supply pipe (272) can be located in the airflow path (390). The air supply pipe (272) can guide the airflow flowing in the airflow path (390) to the chamber (2300, 2600) of the humidifying tank (230, 260). For example, the air supply pipe (272) can guide the rising airflow flowing in the airflow path (390) to the upper side of the bottom surface of the second chamber (2300, 2600). The rising airflow entering the second humidifying tank (260) through the airflow path (390) can pull and flow the mist generated in the second humidifying tank (260). Through this, the mist generated in the second humidifying tank (260) can be discharged. The discharge pipe (274) may extend in the vertical direction. The discharge pipe (274) may form a discharge path (2740). A humid air discharge port (2742) may be formed at one end of the discharge pipe (274). The discharge pipe (274) may be inserted into the interior of the second humidifying tank (260).

The humidifying module (200) may include a communication path (280) connecting the first humidifying tank (230) and the second humidifying tank (260). The communication path (280) may connect the upper part of the first humidifying tank (230) and the upper part of the second humidifying tank (260). In the first humidifying tank (230), water vapor may be generated in the process of heating the supplied water. The generated water vapor may flow to the second humidifying tank (260) through the communication path (280). The discharge pipe (274) may be opened toward the communication path (280). The communication path (280) may be connected to the discharge path (2740). The water vapor that has moved from the first humidifying tank (230) to the second humidifying tank (260) through the connecting pipe (280) can be discharged through the discharge pipe (274). Through this, the humidified air can include the water vapor generated in the first humidifying tank (230), the mist generated in the second humidifying tank (260), and the rising air current formed by the blower fan (350).

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the main housing (2000) includes a housing recess (2012) sunken from the lower surface, a base opening (2016, 2018) penetrating the bottom surface, a drain hole (2015) through which residual water is discharged, and a guide vane (2014) formed on the outer surface.

The main housing (2000) may include a housing base (2010) which is a bottom surface. One surface of the housing base (2010) may form an inner bottom surface of the main housing (2000), and the other surface of the housing base (2010) may form an outer lower surface of the main housing (2000).

The housing recess (2012) can be recessed upwardly from the housing base (2010). The housing recess (2012) can be positioned higher than the housing base (2010). The housing recess (2012) can protrude from the housing base (2010). For example, the housing recess (2012) can protrude upwardly from the housing base (2010).

The base opening (2016, 2018) may be a through hole formed in the main housing (2000). The base opening (2016, 2018) may be formed in the housing base (2010). The base opening (2016, 2018) may communicate the internal space of the main housing (2000) with the internal space of the electrical housing (382). The base opening (2016, 2018) may include a first base opening (2016) and a second base opening (2018). The first base opening (2016) and the second base opening (2018) may be spaced apart from each other. The electrical unit (380) and the humidifying module (200) may be electrically connected through the base opening (2016, 2018).

The main housing (2000) can include a base perimeter wall (2017, 2019) protruding from a perimeter of the base opening (2016, 2018). The base perimeter wall (2017, 2019) can protrude inwardly of the main housing (2000) from a perimeter forming the base opening (2016, 2018). For example, the base perimeter wall (2017, 2019) can protrude upwardly from a perimeter forming the base opening (2016, 2018). The base perimeter wall (2017, 2019) can include a first base perimeter wall (2017) protruding from a perimeter of the first base opening (2016). The base perimeter wall (2017, 2019) may include a second base perimeter wall (2019) protruding from the perimeter of the second base opening (2018).

The drain hole (2015) may be a through hole formed in the main housing (2000). The drain hole (2015) may be formed at the bottom of the main housing (2000). The drain hole (2015) may be formed in the housing base (2010). The drain hole (2015) may communicate the inside and the outside of the main housing (2000). For example, the drain hole (2015) may communicate the inside of the main housing (2000) and the inside of the case (10). The drain hole (2015) may be formed at the edge of the housing base (2010). There may be a plurality of drain holes (2015).

The humidifier (1) may include a guide vane (2014) that guides an airflow flowing through a blower passage (390). The guide vane (2014) may be located in the blower passage (390). The guide vane (2014) may be formed on an outer surface of the humidifying module (200). The blower passage (390) is formed between the main housing (2000) and the inner surface of the case (10), and the guide vane (2014) may be formed on an outer surface of the main housing (2000) and positioned on the blower passage (390).

The guide vane (2014) may be formed in a direction from the blower fan (350) toward the humidifying module (200). The guide vane (2014) may extend in a direction corresponding to the direction in which the blower path (390) extends. For example, the guide vane (2014) may extend in a direction from the lower side where the blower fan (350) is located toward the upper side where the humidifying module (200) is located. In other words, the guide vane (2014) may extend in an up-down direction.

The guide vane (2014) may include a plurality of guide vanes (2014). The plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be formed on an outer surface of the humidifying module (200). The plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The plurality of guide vanes (2014) may extend in a certain direction. For example, the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may extend in a vertical direction. The directions in which the plurality of guide vanes (2014) extend may be different, respectively. For example, the plurality of guide vanes (2014) include a first guide vane (2014a), a second guide vane (2014b), a third guide vane (2014c), and a fourth guide vane (2014d) extending in a vertical direction, and the extended lengths of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be different, respectively.

Referring to FIG. 13, the humidifying module (200) may include a main housing (2000), a supply pipe (210), a first valve (212), a first humidifying tank (230), a first connecting pipe (240), a drain pipe (290), a second humidifying tank (260), and a compartment cover (270).

The main housing (2000) can be placed inside the case (10). The main housing (2000) can accommodate a first humidifying tank (230) and a second humidifying tank (260). The main housing (2000) can have an open upper side.

The supply pipe (210) may be a pipe through which water is supplied to the humidifying module (200). The supply pipe (210) may be connected to the humidifying module (200). Water stored in the tank (110) may be supplied to the humidifying module (200) through the supply pipe (210). For example, water stored in the tank (110) may be moved to the first humidifying tank (230) through the supply pipe (210). A supply chamber (2100) may be formed inside the supply pipe (210). Water introduced into the supply pipe (210) may pass through the supply chamber (2100) and flow into the heating tank. Water introduced into the supply pipe (210) may be temporarily stored in the supply chamber (2100).

The first valve (212) can control the flow of water supplied to the humidifying module (200) through the supply pipe (210). For example, when the first valve (212) is opened, water stored in the supply chamber (2100) can move to the first humidifying tank (230). Conversely, when the first valve (212) is closed, the supplied water can be temporarily stored in the supply chamber (2100). The first valve (212) can be opened and closed according to an electrical signal of the electric unit (380). The first valve (212) can receive power from the electric unit (380). For example, the first valve (212) can be a solenoid valve. The first valve (212) can be arranged on the upper side of the first humidifying tank (230). The first valve (212) can be arranged in the supply pipe (210). For example, the first valve (212) may be positioned between the first humidifying tank (230) and the supply pipe (210). The first valve (212) may be spaced upwardly from the first humidifying tank (230). For example, the first valve (212) may be positioned upwardly spaced from the upper surface of the first humidifying tank (230).

The first humidifying tank (230) can be placed inside the main housing (2000). The first humidifying tank (230) can heat water introduced through the supply pipe (210). The first humidifying tank (230) can heat and sterilize water. Water heated in the first humidifying tank (230) can flow to the second humidifying tank (260).

The first connecting pipe (240) may be a pipe through which water stored in the first humidifying tank (230) flows to the second humidifying tank (260). The height of the first connecting pipe (240) may decrease as it goes downstream. The first connecting pipe (240) may be inclined downward toward the downstream side. The first connecting pipe (240) may have high thermal conductivity. The temperature of water heated in the first humidifying tank (230) may decrease as it flows through the first connecting pipe (240).

The drain pipe (290) may be connected to the first humidifying tank (230). The drain pipe (290) may discharge residual water stored in the first humidifying tank (230). The residual water may be discharged to the outside of the case (10) through the drain pipe (290). The drain pipe (290) may be connected to the lower portion of the first humidifying tank (230). For example, the drain pipe (290) may be connected to the bottom surface of the first humidifying tank (230).

The second humidifying tank (260) can generate humidified air using the supplied water. The humidified air can refer to air containing mist and/or water vapor. The second humidifying tank (260) can generate humidified air using any one of an ultrasonic method, a heating method, an evaporation method, and a disk method. For example, the second humidifying tank (260) can generate humidified air by atomizing the supplied water using an ultrasonic vibrator. The humidifying tank can be equipped with a vibration module (262).

The vibration module (262) may be placed on the bottom surface of the second humidifying tank (260). The vibration module (262) may split the supplied water into fine particles using ultrasonic vibration. The vibration module (262) may atomize the supplied water electrically. For example, the vibration module (262) may include a piezoelectric element.

The compartment cover (270) may be placed on the upper side of the main housing (2000). The compartment cover (270) may cover the upper side of the second humidifying tank (260). The compartment cover (270) may partition a flow path flowing into the second humidifying tank (260) and a flow path flowing out of the second humidifying tank (260). For example, the compartment cover (270) may include an air supply pipe (210) which is a flow path through which a portion of the rising air current flowing in the blower passage (390) flows into the second humidifying tank (260), and an exhaust pipe (274) through which a portion of the rising air current flowing into the second humidifying tank (260) and the smoke stagnant in the second humidifying tank (260) are discharged together. The air supply pipe (210) may connect the blower passage (390) and the second humidifying tank (260). The rising air current that enters the second humidifying tank (260) through the blower path (390) can pull and flow the smoke generated in the second humidifying tank (260). Through this, the smoke generated in the second humidifying tank (260) can be discharged. The discharge pipe (274) can be extended in the vertical direction. The discharge pipe (274) can form a discharge path (2740). A humid air discharge port (2742) can be formed at one end of the discharge pipe (274). The discharge pipe (274) can be inserted into the interior of the second humidifying tank (260).

The humidifying module (200) may include a communication path (280) connecting the first humidifying tank (230) and the second humidifying tank (260). The communication path (280) may connect the upper part of the first humidifying tank (230) and the upper part of the second humidifying tank (260). In the first humidifying tank (230), water vapor may be generated in the process of heating the supplied water. The generated water vapor may flow to the second humidifying tank (260) through the communication path (280). The discharge pipe (274) may be opened toward the communication path (280). The communication path (280) may be connected to the discharge path (2740). The water vapor that has moved from the first humidifying tank (230) to the second humidifying tank (260) through the connecting pipe (280) can be discharged through the discharge pipe (274). Through this, the humidified air can include the water vapor generated in the first humidifying tank (230), the mist generated in the second humidifying tank (260), and the rising air current formed by the blower fan (350).

Referring to FIG. 13, the humidifier (1) may include a display (500).

The display (500) may be arranged on one side of the humidifying module (200). The display (500) may be coupled to one side of the main housing (2000). For example, the display (500) may be coupled to a side of the humidifying module (200). The display (500) may be spaced apart horizontally from the second humidifying tank (260). The display (500) may be spaced apart horizontally from the discharge pipe (274) through which humidified air generated in the second humidifying tank (260) is discharged. The supply pipe (210) may be arranged between the display (500) and the discharge pipe (274). For example, the display (500) and the discharge pipe (274) may be arranged on opposite sides in the horizontal direction based on the central axis (CX) of the case (10). That is, based on the central axis (CX) of the case (10), the display (500) can be placed on the front of the case, and the humid air discharge port (2742) can be placed on the rear.

Referring to FIG. 14, the internal air flow of a humidifier (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

The blower fan (350) can form a rotating airflow toward the blower path (390). The blower fan (350) can form a spiral rising airflow. The blower fan (350) can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Accordingly, an airflow that progresses while rotating clockwise from the blower fan (350) or an airflow that progresses while rotating counterclockwise can be formed. For example, when the blower fan (350) is placed below the humidifying module (200) and rotates clockwise, an airflow that flows upward while rotating clockwise toward the humidifying module (200) can be formed. Conversely, when the blower fan (350) is placed below the humidifying module (200) and rotates counterclockwise, an airflow that flows upward while rotating counterclockwise toward the humidifying module (200) can be formed. Figure 16 is a photograph showing the flow of rising air current formed when the blower fan (350) located at the bottom of the humidifying module (200) rotates clockwise. At this time, the rising air current can rise in a spiral shape while rotating clockwise.

Referring to FIG. 15, a plurality of guide vanes (2014) according to embodiments of the present disclosure are examined.

The guide vane (2014) may be positioned at the lower side of the inlet of the air supply pipe (272). A plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be positioned at the lower side of the inlet of the air supply pipe (272). For example, the guide vane (2014) may extend downward from the inlet of the air supply pipe (272).

The plurality of guide vanes (2014) can be spaced apart from each other. The plurality of guide vanes (2014) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the main housing (2000). The plurality of guide vanes (2014) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cross section of the air blower passage. The plurality of guide vanes (2014) can divide the inlet of the air supply pipe (272) into a plurality of inlets. For example, the plurality of guide vanes (2014) include a first guide vane (2014a), a second guide vane (2014b), a third guide vane (2014c), and a fourth guide vane (2014d) positioned below the inlet of the air supply pipe (272), and the plurality of guide vanes (2014) can be arranged spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the main housing (2000). At this time, the first guide vane (2014a), the second guide vane (2014b), the third guide vane (2014c), and the fourth guide vane (2014d) can divide the inlet of the air supply pipe (272) into a plurality of inlets. Through this, the air flow flowing into the air supply pipe (272) can be distributed and flowed. In addition, the plurality of guide vanes (2014) can include a fifth guide vane (2014e). In the present embodiments, the plurality of guide vanes (2014) are illustrated as including four or five guide vanes (2014), but are not limited thereto, and may include more or fewer guide vanes.

Referring to FIG. 15(a), the extended length of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may increase as they go toward one side. The extended length of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may decrease as they go toward the other side. The extended length of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) in the vertical direction may gradually increase or decrease as they go away from each other. For example, the first guide vane (2014a), the second guide vane (2014b), the third guide vane (2014c), and the fourth guide vane (2014d) are arranged to be spaced apart from each other, and the extended length of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) in the vertical direction may gradually decrease as they go from the first guide vane (2014a) toward the fourth guide vane (2014d). Additionally, the length of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) extending in the vertical direction may gradually increase from the fourth guide vane (2014d) toward the first guide vane (2014a).

The length of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) extended in the vertical direction may gradually increase in a direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the blower fan (350). For example, the blower fan (350) may be arranged at the lower side of the humidifying module (200) and rotate clockwise, and the airflow rising through the blower passage (390) may form a spiral upward flow while rotating clockwise. At this time, the direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the blower fan (350) may be a direction from the fourth guide vane (2014d) toward the first guide vane (2014a). The length of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) extended in the vertical direction may gradually increase from the fourth guide vane (2014d) to the first guide vane (2014a). That is, the fourth guide vane (2014d) may have the shortest extended length, and the first guide vane (2014a) may have the longest extended length.

In contrast, the blower fan (350) is positioned at the lower side of the humidifying module (200) and rotates counterclockwise, and the airflow rising through the blower path (390) may form a spiral upward flow while rotating counterclockwise. At this time, the direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the blower fan (350) may be the direction from the first guide vane (2014a) to the fourth guide vane (2014d). The length of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) extended in the vertical direction may gradually increase from the first guide vane (2014a) to the fourth guide vane (2014d). That is, the extended length of the first guide vane (2014a) may be the shortest, and the extended length of the fourth guide vane (2014d) may be the longest.

Referring to FIG. 15(b), a plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be extended to a predetermined length. The lengths of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) extended in the vertical direction may correspond to each other. For example, the first guide vane (2014a), the second guide vane (2014b), the third guide vane (2014c), and the fourth guide vane (2014d) may each be extended to a predetermined length and may be arranged on the lower side of the inlet of the air supply pipe (272).

Referring to FIG. 15(c), the vertically extended lengths of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may gradually decrease as they move away from the center of the inlet of the air supply pipe (272). The extended length of the guide vane (2014) located at the center of the air supply pipe (272) may be longer than the extended length of the guide vane (2014) located at the edge of the inlet of the air supply pipe (272). That is, the vertically extended lengths of the guide vanes (2014) may decrease as they move from the center to the edge of the air supply pipe (272). For example, the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may include a first guide vane (2014a), a second guide vane (2014b), a third guide vane (2014c), a fourth guide vane (2014d), and a fifth guide vane (2014e), and the third guide vane (2014c) may be positioned at the center of the inlet of the air supply pipe (272), and the first guide vane (2014a) and the fifth guide vane (2014e) may be positioned at the edges of the inlet of the air supply pipe (272). At this time, the length extending in the vertical direction from the third guide vane (2014c) to the first guide vane (2014a) may decrease. In addition, the length extending in the vertical direction from the third guide vane (2014c) to the fifth guide vane (2014e) may decrease. In other words, the extended length of the third guide vane (2014c) may be longer than the extended lengths of the remaining guide vanes (2014a, 2014b, 2014d, 2014e), and the extended lengths of the first guide vane (2014a) and the fifth guide vane (2014e) may be shorter than the extended lengths of the remaining guide vanes (2014b, 2014c, 2014d).

Referring to Fig. 16, the effect of the guide vane (2014) guiding the air flow flowing into the air supply pipe (272) is explained.

The upper end of the guide vane (2014) may be positioned at the inlet of the air supply pipe (272). The guide vane (2014) may include a plurality of guide vanes (2014) extending downward from the inlet of the air supply pipe (272). The plurality of guide vanes (2014) may each extend to different lengths. For example, the plurality of guide vanes (2014) include a first guide vane (2014a), a second guide vane (2014b), a third guide vane (2014c), and a fourth guide vane (2014d) that are spaced apart from each other, and the extended length from the first guide vane (2014a) to the fourth guide vane (2014d) may decrease. For example, a plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be spaced apart from each other by a constant interval (G1), and a difference between the extension length of one guide vane (2014) and the extension length of the neighboring guide vane (2014) may be formed as a constant length (G2). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the distances spaced between the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be formed differently. Accordingly, a difference between the extension length of one guide vane (2014) and the extension length of the neighboring guide vane (2014) may also be formed differently.

The guide vane (2014) can be extended in the vertical direction. The guide vane (2014) can be extended in the vertical direction. The guide vane (2014) can control the direction of the airflow flowing upward in a spiral manner. For example, the guide vane (2014) extended in the vertical direction can attenuate the rotational motion component of the airflow flowing upward in a spiral manner so that the airflow flows in a straight line. The airflow flowing upward in a spiral manner can also be introduced into the air supply pipe (272) with the rotational motion component attenuated by the guide vane (2014) extended in the vertical direction. Accordingly, the airflow supplied to the chamber (2300, 2600) of the humidifying tank (230, 260) through the air supply pipe (272) can be introduced without being biased to one side. That is, the air flow supplied to the chamber (2300, 2600) of the humidifying tank (230, 260) through the air supply pipe (272) can be uniformly introduced in the left and right directions.

The lower ends of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be gradually raised or lowered in a spaced direction. For example, the plurality of guide vanes (2014) include a first guide vane (2014a), a second guide vane (2014b), a third guide vane (2014c), and a fourth guide vane (2014d) spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval (G1), and from the first guide vane (2014a) to the fourth guide vane (2014d), the lower ends of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be sequentially raised by a predetermined interval (G2). Conversely, from the fourth guide vane (2014d) to the first guide vane (2014a), the lower ends of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) may be sequentially lowered by a predetermined interval (G2).

A virtual straight line (L1) connecting the bottoms of the plurality of guide vanes (2014) can be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. The virtual straight line (L1) can be inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal direction. For example, the virtual straight line (L1) can be inclined by a first angle (ceta1) in a counterclockwise direction with respect to the horizontal direction. The airflow (Fu) flowing upward in a spiral shape can be introduced at an angle of a second angle (ceta2) with respect to the horizontal direction. In this case, the second angle (ceta2) can be a value obtained by subtracting the first angle from 90 degrees (90 degrees - ceta1). Conversely, the airflow (Fu) flowing upward in a spiral shape can be introduced at an angle of a first angle (ceta1) with respect to the vertical direction.

Referring to FIG. 17, the measured temperature of humidified air discharged in all directions from a humidifier (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described.

Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 17(a), the front (F), rear (R), left (Le), and right (Ri) directions of the humidifier (1) will be described. The front of the humidifier (1) may be the direction in which the display (500) is exposed. In other words, the front may be the direction from the central axis of the humidifier (1) toward the display (500). The rear of the humidifier (1) may be the other side opposite to one side of the humidifier (1) where the display is positioned. With respect to the plane of the humidifier (1), the right side of the humidifier (1) may be an angle rotated 90 degrees clockwise from the front. With respect to the plane of the humidifier (1), the left side of the humidifier (1) may be an angle rotated 90 degrees clockwise from the rear. Conversely, with respect to the plane of the humidifier (1), the left side of the humidifier (1) may be an angle rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from the front. Based on the plane of the humidifier (1), the right side of the humidifier (1) may be rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise from the rear.

Referring to Fig. 17(b), the measured temperature of humidified air discharged in the front (F), rear (R), left (Le), and right (Ri) directions of the humidifier (1) will be described. The temperature of the discharged humidified air can be measured at the discharge port of the humidifier (1). For example, the temperature of the discharged humidified air can be measured at the discharge grill (160).

Fig. 17(b) is a graph showing the measured temperatures of the discharged humidified air between the embodiment to which the guide vane (2014) is applied and the embodiment to which the guide vane (2014) is not applied. Case 01 is a bar graph showing the measured temperatures of the discharged humidified air in the forward (F), backward (R), left (Le), and right (Ri) directions in the embodiment to which the guide vane (2014) is not applied. Case 02 is a bar graph showing the measured temperatures of the discharged humidified air in the forward (F), backward (R), left (Le), and right (Ri) directions in the embodiment to which the guide vane (2014) is applied.

Looking at Case 01, the measured temperature of the humidified air discharged to the left and the measured temperature of the humidified air discharged to the right differ by approximately 0.837 degrees Celsius. However, looking at Case 02, the measured temperature of the humidified air discharged to the left and the measured temperature of the humidified air discharged to the right differ by approximately 0.478 degrees Celsius. That is, because the airflow flowing into the humidifying tank (230, 260) is uniformly introduced without being biased to one side due to the guide vane, the temperature difference of the humidified air discharged to the left and right can be reduced.

Also, when examining the temperature difference between the humidified air discharged in the forward (F), backward (R), left (Le), and right (Ri) directions, Case 02 is smaller than Case 01. That is, because the air flow flowing into the humidifying tank (230, 260) is uniformly introduced without being biased to one side due to the guide vane, the temperature difference of the humidified air discharged in all directions can be reduced.

Through this, it is possible to provide a humidifier that evenly supplies humidified air in all directions in an indoor space.

In addition, the temperature difference of the humidified air discharged in all directions can be reduced.

Additionally, it can reduce local temperature differences in indoor spaces.

Referring to FIG. 18, an air supply pipe (272) that guides airflow to a humidifying tank (230, 260) and a guide pipe (273) that guides airflow introduced into the air supply pipe (272) to the water surface of water stored in the humidifying tank (230, 260) are described.

The humidifier (1) may include a guide tube (273) arranged in a chamber (2300, 2600) of a humidifying tank (230, 260). The compartment cover (270) may include the guide tube (273). It may be located below a discharge tube (274) of the guide tube (273). The guide tube (273) may be formed in an oval shape with a cross section open on one side. The guide tube (273) may extend in a vertical direction. The guide tube (273) may be arranged in a chamber (2300, 2600) of the humidifying tank (230, 260). For example, the guide tube (273) may be arranged in a second chamber (2300, 2600) of a second humidifying tank (260). The guide tube (273) may be located above an ultrasonic vibrator (262). The guide tube (273) can guide humidified air generated by the ultrasonic vibrator (262) to the discharge tube (274). As a result, the humidified air generated by the ultrasonic vibrator (262) can be discharged to the upper side of the humidifying module (200) through the guide tube (273).

The guide pipe (273) may be located at the outlet of the air supply pipe (272). In terms of the air flow path, the guide pipe (273) may be located on the downstream side of the air supply pipe (272). For example, the guide pipe (273) may be located in front of the air supply pipe (272). The air supply pipe (272) may guide the rising air flow to the guide pipe (273) located in front. The air supply pipe (272) may guide the rising air flow through the blower path (390) to the chamber (2300, 2600) of the humidifying tank (230, 260). The guide pipe (273) may guide the air flow introduced into the air supply pipe (272) to the bottom surface of the chamber (2300, 2600). For example, the guide tube (273) can guide airflow to the surface of the water stored in the second chamber (2300, 2600). Through this, the airflow flowing into the interior of the second chamber (2300, 2600) of the second humidifying tank (260) can pull the humidified air remaining on the upper side of the surface of the water and flow to the outlet.

The guide tube (273) may include an inlet guide (2732) that guides airflow introduced into the air supply tube (272) to the bottom surface of the chamber (2300, 2600). The inlet guide (2732) may be located on the downstream side of the air supply tube (272). For example, the inlet guide (2732) may be located in front of the air supply tube (272). The airflow introduced into the air supply tube (272) may be guided by the inlet guide (2732). The inlet guide (2732) may guide the introduced airflow to the bottom surface of the humidifying tank (230, 260). For example, the inlet guide (2732) may guide the introduced airflow to the water surface, and the guided airflow may pull the humidified air remaining on the upper side of the water surface and flow to the exhaust port.

The guide tube (273) may include a bypass guide (2733, 2734) extended from a lateral end of the inlet guide (2732). The lateral end of the inlet guide (2732) may be a lateral edge of the inlet guide (2732). For example, the bypass guides (2733, 2734) may extend from the left end and the right end of the inlet guide (2732). The bypass guides (2733, 2734) may include a first bypass guide (2733) extended from one end of the inlet guide (2732) and a second bypass guide (2734) extended from the other end of the inlet guide (2732). For example, the bypass guides (2733, 2734) may include a first bypass guide (2733) extending from the left end of the inlet guide (2732) and a second bypass guide (2734) extending from the right end of the inlet guide (2732).

The bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be bent. The bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be bent and extended. For example, the bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be bent and extended in a direction away from the air supply pipe (272). The bypass guide (2733, 2734) may have a curved shape that is formed convexly in an outward direction. The bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be formed convexly toward the inner surface of the humidifying tank (230, 260). For example, the bypass guides (2733, 2734) include a first bypass guide (2733) and a second bypass guide (2734) extending from the left and right ends of the inlet guide (2732), respectively, and a cross-section of the guide tube (273) including the inlet guide (2732), the first bypass guide (2733), and the second bypass guide (2734) may form a portion of an oval shape.

The guide tube (273) may include an inlet slit (2730) extending upwardly and downwardly in the center. The inlet slit (2730) may be a cut formed in the center of the guide tube (273). The inlet slit (2730) may be formed in the inlet guide (2732). The inlet slit (2730) may be cut downwardly in the center of the inlet guide (2732). The inlet slit (2730) may be opened downwardly.

This allows the air flowing into the humidifying tank to flow more smoothly.

Additionally, the amount of air supplied into the humidifying tank can be increased.

The guide tube (273) may include a discharge guide (2735, 2736) extending from a lateral end of a bypass guide (2733, 2734). The lateral end of the bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be a lateral edge of the bypass guide (2733, 2734). For example, the discharge guide (2735, 2736) may extend from a left end and a right end of the bypass guide (2733, 2734). The discharge guide (2735, 2736) may include a first discharge guide (2735) extending from a lateral end of a first bypass guide (2733) and a second discharge guide (2736) extending from a lateral end of a second bypass guide (2734). For example, the exhaust guides (2735, 2736) may include a first exhaust guide (2735) extending from the front end of the first bypass guide (2733) and a second exhaust guide (2736) extending from the right end of the second bypass guide (2734).

The first exhaust guide (2735) and the second exhaust guide (2736) may be spaced apart from each other. An opening may be formed between the spaced apart first exhaust guide (2735) and second exhaust guide (2736). Water vapor generated from the first humidifying tank (230) may flow to the second humidifying tank (260) through the communication path (280) and may flow into the guide tube (273) through the opening formed between the first exhaust guide (2735) and the second exhaust guide (2736). One side of the guide tube (273) may be opened toward the communication path (280).

The compartment cover (270) may include an air supply pipe (272). The air supply pipe (272) may be located upstream of the guide pipe (273). For example, the air supply pipe (272) may be located at the rear of the guide pipe (273). The air supply pipe (272) may guide the airflow flowing through the blower path (390) to the rear of the guide pipe (273) located in the second chamber (2300, 2600) of the second humidifying tank (260). The airflow guided by the guide pipe (273) may be branched by the guide pipe (273). For example, the airflow guided by the guide pipe (273) may be branched into airflows flowing in the left direction and the right direction, respectively. The bypass guide (2733, 2734) can cause the airflow to bypass and flow into the chamber (2300, 2600). The airflow can be subject to resistance while flowing along the bypass guide (2733, 2734). The rotational motion component of the airflow can be attenuated by the resistance of the bypass guide (2733, 2734). The airflow can be discharged through the exhaust port (2742) by pulling the humidified air staying on the upper side of the water surface.

Referring to FIG. 19, the extended lengths of the first bypass guide (2733) and the second bypass guide (2734) are described.

The bypass guide (2733, 2734) may extend in a direction away from the air supply pipe (272). The bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be bent and extended in a direction away from the air supply pipe (272). The bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be bent convexly outward. The inner surface of the bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be formed concavely.

The extended length of the first bypass guide (2733) may be longer than the extended length of the second bypass guide (2734). The extended length of the bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be the length of the bypass guide (2733, 2734) measured from the side end of the inlet guide (2732). The extended length of the bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be measured laterally along the outer surface. The starting point of the measurement of the extended length of the bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be the connection point of the inlet guide (2732) and the bypass guide (2733, 2734). Alternatively, the starting point of the measurement of the extended length of the bypass guide (2733, 2734) may be based on the side view of the guide tube (273). For example, the extended length of the bypass guides (2733, 2734) may be the length from the rear end of the inlet guide (2732) to the front end of the bypass guides (2733, 2734). That is, the extended length of the first bypass guide (2733) may be the length (l1) measured from the rear end of the inlet guide (2732) to the front end of the first bypass guide (2733). In addition, the extended length of the second bypass guide (2734) may be the length (l2) measured from the rear end of the inlet guide (2732) to the front end of the second bypass guide (2734).

As the extension length of the bypass guide (2733, 2734) becomes longer, the resistance applied to the airflow flowing along the bypass guide (2733, 2734) may increase. Accordingly, the resistance of the branched flow paths may be formed differently. For example, when the blower fan (350) rotates clockwise, the airflow that flows upward while rotating clockwise flows into the air supply pipe (272) and is branched by the guide pipe (273). At this time, the airflow that flows in while rotating clockwise has a property of flowing more to the flow path formed on the left than to the flow path formed on the right. By making the extension length of the first inflow guide (2732) formed on the left longer than the extension length of the second inflow guide (2732) formed on the right longer, the resistance of the left flow path can be increased. Through this, the resistance of the right flow path can be relatively reduced compared to the resistance of the left flow path. By setting the extension lengths of the first bypass guide (2733) and the second bypass guide (2734) differently, the amount of airflow flowing to the left and right paths can be evenly distributed.

Accordingly, humidified air can be supplied evenly in all directions in the indoor space.

In addition, the temperature difference of humidified air discharged in all directions can be reduced.

According to one embodiment disclosed in FIG. 19, the extension length (l1) of the first bypass guide (2733) may be longer than the extension length (l2) of the second bypass guide (2734). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and conversely, the extension length (l2) of the second bypass guide (2734) may be formed longer than the extension length (l1) of the first bypass guide (2733). This may be appropriately changed depending on the rotational direction of the blower fan (350). For example, if the blower fan (350) rotates clockwise to form a spiral rising airflow that rotates clockwise with the blower passage located at the top, the extension length (l1) of the first bypass guide (2733) may be formed longer than the extension length (l2) of the second bypass guide (2734). Conversely, if the blower fan (350) rotates counterclockwise to form a spiral rising airflow that rotates counterclockwise with the blower duct located at the top, the extension length (l2) of the second bypass guide (2734) can be formed longer than the extension length (l1) of the first bypass guide (2733).

The ratio of the extension length of the first bypass guide (2733) to the extension length of the second bypass guide (2734) may be formed at a predetermined ratio. For example, the ratio of the extension length (l2) of the second bypass guide (2734) to the extension length (l1) of the first bypass guide (2733) may be formed at a ratio of 1:1.4 to 1:2.1. That is, the extension length (l1) of the first bypass guide (2733) may be formed to be 1.4 to 2.1 times the extension length (l2) of the second bypass guide (2734). However, as described above, the extension length of the second bypass guide (2734) may be formed longer than the extension length of the first bypass guide (2733), and in this case, the predetermined ratio may be formed in reverse. In addition, the predetermined ratio may be appropriately changed depending on the performance and structure of the blower fan (350).

Referring to FIG. 20, the arrangement structure of the first bypass guide (2733) and the second bypass guide (2734) within the second humidifying tank (260) is described.

Referring to FIG. 20(a), the guide pipe (273) may include an inlet guide (2732) extending in the vertical direction, a first bypass guide (2733) extending from one end of the inlet guide (2732), and a second bypass guide (2734) extending from the other end of the inlet guide (2732). The guide pipe (273) may be placed in the second chamber (2300, 2600) of the second humidifying tank (260). At this time, the lower end of the guide pipe (273) may be immersed in water stored in the second chamber (2300, 2600). Accordingly, the air flow introduced into the air supply pipe (272) may be introduced to the rear of the guide pipe (273) and may flow to the front of the second chamber (2300, 2600) along the first bypass guide (2733) and the second bypass guide (2734).

Referring to Fig. 20(b), an ultrasonic vibrator (262) may be placed on the bottom surface of the second chamber (2300, 2600). The ultrasonic vibrator (262) may be placed at the center of the bottom surface of the second chamber (2300, 2600). The guide tube may be spaced apart from the ultrasonic vibrator (262) in the horizontal direction. Based on the horizontal direction, the guide tube (273) may be located between the ultrasonic vibrator (262) and the inner surface of the second humidifying tank (260). Accordingly, humidified air generated by the ultrasonic vibrator (262) may be introduced into the guide tube (273). Based on the horizontal direction, the guide tube (273) may surround the ultrasonic vibrator (262). For example, a cross-section of the guide tube (273) may be formed in a partial elliptical shape, and the ultrasonic vibrator (262) may be located on the inner side of the ellipse. As the guide tube (273) is spaced horizontally from the ultrasonic vibrator (262), the flow of humidified air generated by the ultrasonic vibrator (262) may not be disturbed.

Referring to Fig. 21, the structure and mutual relationship of the first discharge guide (2735) and the second discharge guide (2736) are described.

The exhaust guides (2735, 2736) may extend from a portion of the side end of the bypass guides (2733, 2734). For example, the first exhaust guide (2735) may be bent and extended from an upper portion of the side end of the first bypass guide (2733). Additionally, the second exhaust guide (2736) may be bent and extended from an upper portion of the side end of the second bypass guide (2734).

The first exhaust guide (2735) and the second exhaust guide (2736) can be horizontally spaced apart from each other. An exhaust opening ㅍ through which humidified air flows into the interior of the guide tube (273) can be formed between the first exhaust guide (2735) and the second exhaust guide (2736). Through this, the air current carrying the humidified air can smoothly flow into the interior of the guide tube (273) and be discharged through the exhaust tube (274).

The edges of the discharge guides (2735, 2736) may be formed diagonally. The edges may be the lower ends of the discharge guides. For example, the lower ends of the discharge guides (2735, 2736) may be inclined upward in an extended direction. The lower ends of the first discharge guides (2735) may be inclined upward in a rightward direction. The lower ends of the second discharge guides (2736) may be inclined upward in a leftward direction. The lower ends of the discharge guides (2735, 2736) may be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal direction. For example, the lower ends of the first discharge guides (2735) may be inclined counterclockwise by a first angle (pi 1) with respect to the horizontal direction. In addition, the lower ends of the second discharge guides (2736) may be inclined clockwise by a second angle (pi 2) with respect to the horizontal direction.

The exhaust opening (2737) may be formed between the lower end of the first exhaust guide (2735) and the lower end of the second exhaust guide (2736). The width of the exhaust opening (2737) may be the distance (d) between the first exhaust guide (2735) and the second exhaust guide (2736). The width of the exhaust opening (2737) may decrease as it goes upward. Conversely, the width of the exhaust opening (2737) may increase as it goes downward. Through this, humidified air may be smoothly introduced into the lower end of the wide exhaust opening (2737).

Referring to FIG. 22, a comparison of humidifying air volume between one embodiment to which the inlet slit (2730) of the present disclosure is applied and another embodiment to which it is not applied is described.

A is a graph showing the humidifying air volume of an example in which an inlet slit (2730) is applied. B is a graph showing the humidifying air volume of an example in which an inlet slit (2730) is not applied.

The horizontal axis of the graph represents the rotation speed (rpm) of the blower fan. The vertical axis of the graph represents the air volume (CMM) of the humidified air. In A and B, as the rotation speed of the blower fan increases, the humidified air volume may increase. At the same rotation speed of the blower fan, A may have a greater humidified air volume than B. Specifically, when the blower fan rotates at about 500 rpm, the humidified air volume of A is about 0.03 CMM, and the humidified air volume of B is about 0.025 CMM. In addition, when the blower fan rotates at about 700 rpm, the humidified air volume of A is about 0.055 CMM, and the humidified air volume of B is about 0.045 CMM. In addition, when the blower fan rotates at about 1100 rpm, the humidified air volume of A is about 0.105 CMM, and the humidified air volume of B is about 0.08 CMM. Also, when the blower fan rotates at approximately 1500 rpm, the humidifying air volume of A is approximately 0.160 CMM, and the humidifying air volume of B is approximately 0.130 CMM. Also, when the blower fan rotates at approximately 1800 rpm, the humidifying air volume of A is approximately 0.215 CMM, and the humidifying air volume of B is approximately 0.170 CMM. Also, when the blower fan rotates at approximately 2300 rpm, the humidifying air volume of A is approximately 0.270 CMM, and the humidifying air volume of B is approximately 0.215 CMM. The humidifying air volume of A may be approximately 20% to 30% more than the humidifying air volume of B. The difference between the humidifying air volumes of A and B may increase as the rotation speed of the blower fan increases.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 22, a humidifier according to an aspect of the present disclosure may include: a case having an intake port and an exhaust port formed therein; a blower fan disposed inside the case and forming an airflow from the intake port to the exhaust port; and a humidifying module positioned downstream of the blower fan in the airflow direction and generating humidified air, wherein an airflow path through which airflow flows is formed between the humidifying module and the inner surface of the case, and the humidifying module may include: a humidifying tank having a chamber in which humidified air is generated; an air supply pipe disposed in the airflow path and guiding the airflow upward from the bottom surface of the chamber; and a guide vane positioned below an inlet of the air supply pipe.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the blower fan is located at the lower side of the humidifying module and can form a spiral upward airflow toward the blower path.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper end of the guide vane may be located at the inlet of the air supply pipe.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the guide vane includes: a plurality of guide vanes extending in the vertical direction, wherein the plurality of guide vanes are positioned below the inlet of the air supply pipe and can be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cross section of the blower passage.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of guide vanes may have a length that gradually increases in the vertical direction as they move apart from each other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a virtual straight line connecting the lower ends of the plurality of guide vanes can be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of guide vanes may have a length that gradually increases in the vertical direction in a direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the blower fan.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the plurality of guide vanes may have a length extending in the vertical direction gradually decreasing as they move away from the center of the inlet of the air supply pipe.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a guide tube is provided which is arranged in the chamber and is positioned at an outlet of the air supply pipe, wherein the guide tube extends in a vertical direction and can guide airflow introduced into the air supply pipe to a bottom surface of the chamber.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the guide tube includes: an inlet guide extending in a vertical direction and guiding airflow introduced into the air supply pipe to a bottom surface of the chamber; a first bypass guide extending from one end of the inlet guide; and a second bypass guide extending from the other end of the inlet guide, wherein the first bypass guide and the second bypass guide can be bent and extended in a direction away from the air supply pipe.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the extended length of the first bypass guide may be longer than the extended length of the second bypass guide.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the blower fan is positioned below the humidifying module and rotates in a first direction to form a spiral upward airflow toward the blower passage, the first bypass guide extends from the inlet guide in the first direction, the second bypass guide extends from the inlet guide in a direction opposite to the first direction, and the extended length of the first guide may be longer than the extended length of the second guide.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inlet guide may include: an inlet slit extending in a vertical direction at the center;

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the guide tube includes: a first discharge guide extending from a side end of the first bypass guide; and a second discharge guide extending from a side end of the second bypass guide, wherein the first discharge guide and the second discharge guide can be spaced apart from each other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the lower end of the first discharge guide and the lower end of the second discharge guide can each be inclined upward in an extended direction.

Any of the embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct. Any of the embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may have their respective components or functions combined or used together.

For example, it means that a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and/or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and/or drawing. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, it means that a combination is possible, except in cases where a combination is described as impossible.

The above detailed description should not be construed as restrictive in all respects but should be considered as illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes coming within the equivalent scope of the invention are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention.

1: Humidifier
10: Case
110: Tank
120: Tank Housing
130: Inner Shell
140: Outer Shell
270: Compartment cover
272: Ultrasonic vibrator
272: Air supply pipe
274: Exhaust pipe
273: Guide tube
2730: Inlet slit
2732: Inflow Guide
2733: 1st Bypass Guide
2734: 2nd Bypass Guide
2735: 1st Emission Guide
2736: 2nd Emission Guide
2740: Emission Euro

Claims (15)

A case having an inlet and an outlet formed therein;
A blower fan disposed inside the case and forming an airflow from the intake port to the exhaust port; and
A humidifying module is located downstream of the blower fan in the airflow direction and includes a humidifying module that generates humidified air.
An airflow path is formed between the above humidifying module and the inner surface of the case,
The above humidifying module:
A humidifying tank in which humidified air is generated;
An air supply pipe arranged in the above-mentioned blower passage and guiding airflow into the interior of the above-mentioned humidifying tank; and
A humidifier including a guide vane positioned at the lower side of the inlet of the above air supply pipe. In the first paragraph,
The above blower fan,
A humidifier positioned below the above humidifying module and forming a spiral rising airflow toward the above blower path. In the first paragraph,
The top of the above guide vane is,
A humidifier located at the inlet of the above air supply pipe. In the first paragraph,
The above guide vanes are:
It comprises a plurality of guide vanes extending in the vertical direction,
The above multiple guide vanes are,
A humidifier positioned below the inlet of the above air supply pipe and spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cross section of the above air blower path. In the fourth paragraph,
The above multiple guide vanes are,
A humidifier in which the vertical extension length gradually increases as it moves in the above-mentioned direction. In clause 5,
An imaginary straight line connecting the lower ends of the above plurality of guide vanes is
Humidifier tilted with respect to the horizontal direction. In the fourth paragraph,
The above multiple guide vanes are,
A humidifier in which the vertical extension length gradually increases in the direction corresponding to the rotational direction of the blower fan. In the fourth paragraph,
The above multiple guide vanes are,
A humidifier in which the vertical length gradually decreases as it moves away from the center of the inlet of the air supply pipe. In the first paragraph,
A guide pipe is disposed inside the humidifying tank and is located at the outlet of the air supply pipe.
The above guide tube,
A humidifier that extends in a vertical direction and guides airflow introduced into the air supply pipe to the bottom surface inside the humidifying tank. In Article 9,
The above guide tube:
An inflow guide extending in the vertical direction and guiding the air flow introduced into the air supply pipe to the bottom surface inside the humidifying tank;
A first bypass guide extended from one end of the above inflow guide; and
Including a second bypass guide extended from the other end of the above inflow guide,
The above first bypass guide and the above second bypass guide,
A humidifier that bends and extends away from the above air supply pipe. In Article 10,
The length of the above first bypass guide is extended,
A humidifier having a length longer than the extended length of the second bypass guide. In Article 10,
The above blower fan,
Located at the lower side of the above humidifying module, and rotating in the first direction to form a spiral rising airflow toward the above blower path,
The above first bypass guide is,
Extending from the above inflow guide in the first direction,
The above second bypass guide is,
Extending from the above inflow guide in a direction opposite to the first direction,
The length of the above first bypass guide is extended,
A humidifier having a length longer than the extended length of the second bypass guide. In Article 10,
The above inflow guide:
A humidifier comprising an inlet slit extending vertically in the center. In Article 10,
The above guide tube:
A first discharge guide extending from the side end of the first bypass guide; and
Including a second discharge guide extended from the side end of the second bypass guide,
The above first discharge guide and the above second discharge guide,
Humidifiers spaced apart from each other. In Article 14,
The bottom of the first discharge guide and the bottom of the second discharge guide are,
A humidifier that slopes upward in each extended direction.

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