CN117769632A

CN117769632A - Humidification device and household appliance

Info

Publication number: CN117769632A
Application number: CN202280053567.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 金贤雅; 罗善旭; 金俊衡; 金孝珍; 朴永察; 徐炯濬; 宋永泰; 曹东号; 曹城准
Original assignee: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd
Current assignee: Samsung Electronics Co Ltd
Priority date: 2021-12-29
Filing date: 2022-11-11
Publication date: 2024-03-26
Also published as: US20230204249A1; EP4365500A1

Abstract

The humidifying device may include: a water tank configured to hold water; a heating device for heating water contained in the water tank; a discharge chamber disposed above the water tank, including a discharge port for discharging water vapor generated in the water tank by heating; a guide chamber located between the water tank and the discharge chamber, configured to guide water vapor generated in the water tank to the discharge chamber; and a baffle plate located in the center of the guide chamber, spaced apart from the inner wall of the guide chamber to form a gap between the baffle plate and the inner wall, blocking the flow of the water vapor guided by the guide chamber, and allowing the water vapor to flow through the gap to be guided by the guide chamber to the discharge chamber.

Description

Humidification device and household appliance

Technical Field

The disclosed invention relates to a humidifying device and a household appliance having an improved structure.

Background

The humidifying device refers to a device that vaporizes water to adjust humidity in a room. Humidification devices are used to maintain the humidity in the room at a proper level and to prevent various respiratory diseases.

For example, the humidifier may be an ultrasonic humidifier that vaporizes water by ultrasonic waves, a heating humidifier that heats water to vaporize water, or a vaporization humidifier that humidifies water by natural vaporization.

In the case of the heating type humidifying device, high-temperature water vapor can be discharged by heating water. At this time, in the case where the user directly contacts the high-temperature water vapor, the user may be burned. In addition, when the humidifying device is used, noise of water boiling may be generated.

In addition, mineral components, organic matters, and the like contained in water may be precipitated as scale and water slag and fixed inside the humidifying device. If left alone, the humidifying device may be discolored or may generate odor at the humidifying device.

Disclosure of Invention

Technical problem

An aspect of the disclosed invention provides a humidifying device that improves use stability.

An aspect of the disclosed invention provides a humidifying device with improved vaporization efficiency.

An aspect of the disclosed invention provides a humidifying device capable of preventing deposit accumulation.

An aspect of the disclosed invention provides a noise-reducing humidifying device.

Technical proposal

The humidifying device according to an embodiment may include: a water tank configured to hold water; a heating device for heating water contained in the water tank; a discharge chamber disposed above the water tank, including a discharge port for discharging water vapor generated in the water tank due to the water heated by the heating device; a guide chamber located between the water tank and the discharge chamber, and configured to guide the water vapor generated in the water tank to the discharge chamber; and a baffle plate located at a center portion of an interior of the guide chamber, spaced apart from an inner sidewall of the guide chamber to form a gap between the baffle plate and the inner sidewall, the baffle plate blocking a flow of the water vapor guided by the guide chamber at the center portion, and causing the water vapor guided by the guide chamber to flow through the gap to be guided by the guide chamber to the discharge chamber.

The humidifying device may further include: and a lower plate which is disposed in the guide chamber so as to be spaced apart from each other below the baffle plate, and has a through hole formed in a central portion thereof so that the water vapor guided by the guide chamber flows into the gap through the through hole.

The humidifying device may further include: and an upper plate which is disposed in the guide chamber so as to be spaced apart from each other above the baffle plate, and has a through hole formed in a central portion thereof so that the water vapor flowing through the gap is guided by the upper plate, passes through the through hole, and flows into the discharge chamber.

The humidifying device may further include: an air supply fan comprising: a suction unit for sucking external air; and a discharge portion communicating with the discharge chamber to transfer the external air sucked from the suction portion to the discharge chamber.

The discharge chamber may further include: a base detachably coupled to an upper portion of the guide chamber; and a mixing tower extending from the base in a flow direction of the water vapor and configured to mix the water vapor flowing in from the guide chamber with the outside air flowing in from the blower fan.

The baffle plate may be inclined downward in a direction away from a central portion of the inside of the guide chamber to guide water condensed by the water vapor flowing in the inside of the guide chamber downward and away from the discharge chamber.

The lower plate may be inclined downward toward the through hole of the lower plate to guide the water condensed by the water vapor flowing inside the guide chamber downward and away from the discharge chamber.

The upper plate may be provided to be inclined downward toward the through hole of the upper plate to guide the water condensed by the water vapor flowing inside the guide chamber downward and away from the discharge chamber.

The humidifying device may be configured such that the blower fan is turned off after a preset time elapses after the humidifying operation is completed.

The air supply fan may further include a first air supply fan and a second air supply fan, and the mixing tower of the discharge chamber may be disposed between the first air supply fan and the second air supply fan.

The humidifying device may further include: a perforated plate disposed between the guide chamber and the water tank to reduce noise generated when the heating device heats water contained in the water tank.

The size of the inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber may be non-uniform in the flow direction of the water vapor such that the pressure of the water vapor guided through the guide chamber changes with respect to the previous pressure of the pressure.

The humidifying device may further include: a first plate disposed in the guide chamber so as to be spaced apart from the baffle plate downward, the first plate including a first through hole formed in a central portion thereof; and a second plate disposed in the guide chamber to be spaced apart from the baffle plate, and including a second through hole formed in a central portion of the second plate, the guide chamber may further include: a first guide chamber part detachably coupled to an upper side of the water tub, including the first plate, the baffle plate, and a connection rib connecting the first plate and the baffle plate; and a second guide chamber portion detachably coupled to an upper side of the first guide chamber portion and communicating with the discharge chamber, including the second plate.

The water tank includes a bottom and a sidewall extending from the bottom to an upper portion, and the heating device is disposed at the sidewall of the water tank.

The humidifying device may further include: a supply pump connected to the water tank to supply water to the water tank; and a drain pump connected with the water tank to drain water contained in the water tank.

The humidifying device according to an embodiment may include: a water tank configured to receive water; heating means arranged to heat said water to produce water vapour; a blower fan configured to forcibly flow outside air; and a mixing chamber disposed above the water tank, wherein the mixing chamber may include: a base, the lower side of which is communicated with the water tank so that the water vapor flows into the base from the water tank, and the upper side of which is communicated with the air supply fan so that the external air flows into the base from the air supply fan; a mixing tower extending upward from the base and configured to mix water vapor flowing into the base with outside air; and a discharge port formed at an upper end portion of the mixing tower, for discharging water vapor mixed with the outside air.

The humidifying device may further include: a guiding chamber arranged between the water tank and the mixing chamber, configured to guide water vapor generated in the water tank to the mixing chamber.

The humidifying device may further include: a first plate disposed inside the guide chamber and including a first through hole in a central portion; a baffle plate disposed to be spaced upward from the first plate and provided so as to correspond to the first through hole; and a second plate spaced upward from the baffle plate and including a second through hole provided to correspond to the baffle plate, wherein water vapor generated in the water tank can be turned by the baffle plate inside the guide chamber.

The first plate may include a concave shape to guide water flowing inside the guide chamber to the first through hole, the second plate may include a concave shape to guide water flowing inside the guide chamber to the second through hole, and the baffle may have a convex shape to guide water flowing inside the guide chamber to below.

The home appliance according to an embodiment may include: a main body; an external air inflow port formed at a side of the main body; a steam outflow port formed above the main body; and a humidifying device provided inside the main body, generating water vapor, wherein the humidifying device may include: a water tank for containing water; a heater for heating water in the water tank; a guide chamber configured to flow water vapor generated in the water tank; a baffle plate disposed at a central portion inside the guide chamber and configured to block a flow of the water vapor; an air supply fan provided to communicate with the external air inflow port to suck external air; and a mixing chamber provided to mix the water vapor flowing in from the guide chamber with the external air flowing in from the blower fan, including a discharge port arranged corresponding to the water vapor outflow port to discharge the water vapor mixed with the external air.

Technical effects

According to an aspect of the disclosed invention, the humidifying device may have a structure that improves the stability in use.

According to an aspect of the disclosed invention, the humidifying device can prevent deposit accumulation in the water tank.

According to an aspect of the disclosed invention, the humidifying device can reduce noise generated when water contained in the water tank is heated.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a front perspective view of a humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a rear perspective view of a humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 3 is an exploded view of a humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 4 is an exploded view illustrating the humidifying device shown in fig. 3 from another direction.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 6 is a view showing a part of a humidifying device in a cutaway manner according to an embodiment.

Fig. 7 is a partial enlarged view of the humidifying device shown in fig. 5.

Fig. 8 is a control block diagram of a humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a flowchart of an example of a control method of the humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an example of an air purifier including a humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Fig. 11 is a rear perspective view of the air cleaner shown in fig. 10.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in fig. 10.

Detailed Description

The embodiments described in the specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are only a preferable example of the disclosed invention, and there may be various modifications that can replace the embodiments and the drawings of the specification.

In the drawings, the same reference numerals or symbols indicate components or elements that perform substantially the same functions.

Also, the terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the embodiments and is not intended to be limiting and/or limiting of the disclosed invention. The expression in the singular includes the expression in the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this specification, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and the like are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof.

In addition, throughout the specification, when it is referred to that a certain portion is "connected" to another portion, this includes not only a case of direct connection but also a case of indirect connection with other constituent elements. Likewise, when it is referred to that a certain portion is "combined" with another portion, this includes not only the case of direct combination but also the case of indirect combination with other constituent elements.

Furthermore, throughout the specification, when reference is made to a certain element being "on" another element, this includes not only the case where the certain element is in contact with the other element, but also the case where there are other elements between the two elements.

Further, terms including ordinal numbers such as "first", "second", and the like used in the specification are used to describe various constituent elements, but these constituent elements are not limited by the above terms, and the above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from another constituent element. For example, a first component may be termed a second component, and, similarly, a second component may be termed a first component, without departing from the scope of the present claims. The term "and/or" includes a combination of a plurality of associated recited items or any of a plurality of associated recited items.

The terms "front-rear direction", "left-right direction", "vertical direction", "front", "rear", "upper side", "lower side", and the like used in the following description are defined with reference to the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

For example, as shown in fig. 1, in the humidifying device 10, the direction in which the heating device 200 is directed may be defined as the front (+x direction), and the opposite direction may be defined as the rear (-X direction). For example, the X direction may be referred to as the front-rear direction, the Y direction may be referred to as the left-right direction, and the Z direction may be referred to as the vertical direction. However, this is referred to with reference to the drawings for convenience of description only, and is not limited thereto.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 is a front perspective view of a humidifying device according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is a rear perspective view of a humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, the humidifying device 10 may include a water tank 100, a heating device 200, and a mixing chamber 500.

The water tank 100 may be configured to hold water.

The sink 100 may include a supply port 110. The water tank 100 may receive water through a supply port 110. For example, a supply pump 180 described later may be connected to the supply port 110 of the water tank 100. The supply pump 180 may be provided to supply water from a water storage part (not shown) to the water tank 100. However, not limited thereto, the user may directly fill the water tank 100 with water without using the supply port 110.

The sink 100 may include a drain opening 120. The water contained in the water tub 100 can be discharged through the water discharge opening 120. For example, a drain pump 190 described later may be connected to the drain port 120 of the water tank 100. The drain pump 190 may be provided to drain the water contained in the sump 100 to the outside of the sump 100. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a user may directly pour water from the water tank 100 without using the drain port 120.

For example, the water tub 100 may include a bottom 100a and a sidewall 100b extending upward from the bottom 100a. The upper portion of the tub 100 may be opened. In the drawings, a case where the water tank 100 includes a substantially box shape and the side walls 100b of the water tank 100 are four is illustrated, but it is not limited thereto, and may be provided in various shapes. For example, the water tank 100 may include a substantially hollow cylindrical shape, and in this case, the side wall 100b may be provided as a circumferential surface.

The heating device 200 may be provided to heat the water contained in the water tub 100. The heating device 200 may be provided to boil water contained in the water tank 100. The heating device 200 may generate water vapor by heating water contained in the water tank 100.

The heating device 200 may be disposed at a side of the tub 100. However, the heating device 200 is not limited thereto, and may be provided inside the water tank 100. The heating device 200 may be disposed in the water contained in the water tub 100. That is, the heating device 200 may indirectly heat the water in the water tank 100 by heating the water tank 100, or may directly heat the water in the water tank 100.

For example, the heating device 200 may be provided not to be disposed at the bottom 100a of the tub 100. The heating device 200 may be disposed at a sidewall 100b of the tub 100 other than the bottom 100a. The heating device 200 may be disposed inside the tub 100 except for the bottom 100a.

The water in the water tank is heated, and mineral components, organic matters, and the like contained in the water may remain in the water tank as scale, water slag, foreign matters, and the like (hereinafter, collectively referred to as "sediment"). Such deposits may accumulate along the heated surface and the user needs to periodically remove the deposits. In the past, when steam is generated by heating the bottom of the water tank, the precipitate is deposited and fixed on the bottom of the water tank, and thus it is difficult to clean.

In contrast, according to an embodiment, the heating device 200 is disposed at a side of the sump 100 other than the bottom 100a or at an inside of the sump 100 other than the bottom 100a, so that it is possible to prevent the deposition of the sediment on the bottom 100a of the sump 100 to be fixed. Further, in the case where the heating device 200 is disposed at a side other than the bottom 100a or at an inside other than the bottom 100a, the sediment may be accumulated under the water tank 100 by the influence of gravity before being fixed to the water tank 100. At this time, the sediment collected below the water tank 100 may be discharged together with the water remaining in the water tank 100. For example, the sediment may be discharged through the drain port 120 together with the water in the water tub 100.

The water tub 100 may include an inclined portion 170 formed at a side. The precipitate generated by the heating of the heating device 200 may be disposed to move downward along the inclined part 170 before being fixed to the inner sidewall of the tub 100. Thus, the accumulation of the precipitate 100 can be minimized and the precipitate can be easily removed at the time of washing.

For example, the inclined portion 170 may include a first inclined portion 171 and a second inclined portion 172. The first inclined portion 171 and the second inclined portion 172 may be disposed opposite to each other. The first inclined portion 171 may be formed at a lower portion of the tub 100, and the second inclined portion 172 may be formed at an upper portion of the tub 100. However, this is merely exemplary and is not limited thereto. The inclined portion 170 may be provided in one or more than three.

The mixing chamber 500 may be disposed above the water tank 100. The mixing chamber 500 may be provided to discharge the water vapor generated in the water tub 100. The mixing chamber 500 may include: the discharge port 530 discharges the water vapor generated in the water tank 100 to the outside of the humidifying device 10. The discharge port 530 may be provided at an upper end portion of the mixing chamber 500. In addition, the mixing chamber 500 may be referred to as an exhaust chamber 500.

The humidifying device 10 may also include a guide chamber 300.

The guide chamber 300 may be disposed between the water tank 100 and the mixing chamber 500. For example, the guide chamber 300 may be located above the water tank 100 and below the mixing chamber 500.

The guide chamber 300 may be provided to extend from the water tank 100 to the mixing chamber 500 and to flow water vapor. The guide chamber 300 may guide the water vapor generated in the water tub 100 to the mixing chamber 500.

For example, referring to fig. 1 and 2, the guide chamber 300 may include a first guide chamber portion 310 and a second guide chamber portion 320. The second guide chamber portion 320 may be detachably installed at an upper portion of the first guide chamber portion 310. However, not limited thereto, the first guide chamber portion 310 and the second guide chamber portion 320 may be formed as one body. That is, the guide chamber 300 may be provided as an integral structure. Alternatively, the guide chamber 300 may be provided with three or more chamber portions that can be coupled to each other.

The humidifying device 10 may also include a fan assembly 600.

The fan assembly 600 may be configured to take in air from the outside and discharge it to the inside of the humidifying device 10. The fan assembly 600 may provide external air to the interior of the humidifying device 10. For example, the fan assembly 600 may be provided to communicate with the mixing chamber 500 and discharge external air to the mixing chamber 500.

The fan assembly 600 may be provided in a plurality. In the drawings, the fan assembly 600 is shown as two, but is not limited thereto, and may be provided as three or more. In addition, the fan assembly 600 may be provided as one.

For example, the fan assembly 600 may be provided as a pair. The pair of fan assemblies 600 may include a first fan assembly 600a and a second fan assembly 600b. The first and second fan assemblies 600a and 600b may be disposed opposite to each other. The first and second fan assemblies 600a and 600b may be arranged side by side in the left-right direction Y. However, not limited thereto, the first fan assembly 600a and the second fan assembly 600b may be arranged side by side in the front-rear direction X. A mixing tower 520 of the mixing chamber 500 may be disposed between the first fan assembly 600a and the second fan assembly 600b. In addition, the position of the fan assembly 600 is not limited as long as it supplies external air to the mixing chamber 500.

Fig. 3 is an exploded view of a humidifying device according to an embodiment. Fig. 4 is an exploded view illustrating the humidifying device shown in fig. 3 from another direction.

The water tub 100 may be detachably coupled to the heating device 200. The heating device 200 may be detachably coupled to a portion of the sump 100 other than the bottom 100 a. The heating device 200 may be detachably coupled to a side of the tub 100. The heating device 200 may be detachably coupled to the sidewall 100b of the tub 100. The heating device 200 may be detachably coupled to the inside of the tub 100 except for the bottom 100 a.

For example, one side wall (corresponding portion) 150 of the water tub 100 provided with the heating device 200 may include a shape corresponding to the shape of the heating device 200. The corresponding portion 150 may include a shape corresponding to a shape of the heater case 210 described later.

For example, the water tub 100 may include a housing coupling portion 130 for coupling with the heating device 200. The housing coupling portion 130 may be provided to be coupled with a water tank coupling portion 213 of the heater housing 210, which will be described later.

For example, the water tub 100 may include hooks 160 to secure the heating device 200. The hooks 160 may be provided to be combined with hook hooks 214 of the heater case 210, which will be described later.

The water tank 100 may be detachably combined with the guide chamber 300. The water tub 100 may be detachably coupled with the first guide chamber part 310. The first guide chamber portion 310 may be detachably coupled to the upper side of the tub 100.

For example, the water tub 100 may include a chamber coupling part 140 for coupling with the first guide chamber part 310. The chamber coupling portion 140 may be provided to be coupled with a water tank coupling portion 313 of the first guide chamber portion 310, which will be described later.

The sink 100 may include a supply port 110 and a drain port 120. A supply pump 180 may be connected to the supply port 110. A drain pump 190 may be connected to the drain port 120. Thus, water can be supplied into the water tank 100, or water in the water tank 100 can be discharged. However, not limited thereto, the user may directly fill the water tank 100 with water or pour out the water of the water tank 100.

The water tank 100 may comprise a polypropylene (PP) material. Alternatively, the water tank 100 may comprise a Steel (Steel) material to efficiently receive heat from the heating device 200. The water tank 100 may be integrally formed with a heat conduction member 40 described later. However, this is merely exemplary, and the sink 100 may be provided using a variety of materials.

The heating device 200 may include a heater 220 and a heater housing 210 configured to house the heater 220.

The heater housing 210 may stably fix the heater 220 to the sump 100. The heater housing 210 may prevent the heater 220 from being detached from the water tub 100.

For example, the heater housing 210 may be provided in plurality. The heater housing 210 may include a first housing 211 and a second housing 212. The first housing 211 and the second housing 212 may be provided to be detachably coupled in the front-rear direction (X direction).

The heater housing 210 may include a sump coupling 213 for coupling with the sump 100. The sump coupling 213 may be detachably coupled with the housing coupling 130 of the sump 100. For example, the water tank coupling portion 213 may be formed at the first housing 211.

The heater housing 210 may include a hook catch 214 for coupling with the sink 100. The hook hooking portion 214 may be provided as a hook 160 hooked to the water tub 100. For example, the hook hooking portion 214 may be formed at the second housing 212.

The heater housing 210 may include a sealing member mounting portion 215. The seal member 30 described later may be attached to the seal member attachment portion 215. The sealing member mounting portion 215 may include a shape corresponding to the sealing member 30. For example, the sealing member mounting portion 215 may include a substantially four-sided frame shape. The sealing member mounting portion 215 may include a groove shape so that the sealing member 30 can be inserted.

The heater case 210 may be configured to house a heat conductive member 40 described later. The heater case 210 can stably fix the heat conductive member 40 to the water tub 100. The heater housing 210 may prevent the heat conductive member 40 from being detached from the water tub 100.

A heat transfer member 40 may be provided between the heater 220 and the tub 100 to transfer heat of the heater 220 to the tub 100. The heat conductive member 40 may comprise a material of high thermal conductivity. For example, the thermally conductive member 40 may comprise a steel (steel) material. However, not limited thereto, the heat conductive member 40 may include various materials having high thermal conductivity.

The heat conductive member 40 may be disposed in contact with the heater 200. The heat conductive member 40 may be provided to be housed inside the heater case 210 together with the heater 200. However, the heat conduction member 40 is not limited thereto, and may be formed integrally with the water tank 100, for example. Alternatively, the heat conductive member 40 may form a side wall of the water tub 100. Alternatively, the heat conductive member 40 may be integrally formed with the heater 220.

The heat conductive member 40 may include a substantially plate shape. However, the heat conduction member 40 is not limited thereto, and may be provided in a shape corresponding to the shape of the water tank 100 to be heated. For example, in the case where the water tank 100 includes a cylindrical shape, the heat conductive member 40 may include a curved shape to correspond to the cylindrical shape.

A perforated plate 20 may be provided between the water tank 100 and the guide chamber 300. The perforated plate 20 may be disposed between the water tub 100 and the first guide chamber portion 310. For example, the perforated plate 20 may be installed at the lower side of the first guide chamber part 310. The perforated plate 20 can be inserted into a plate mounting portion 314 (see fig. 5) of the first guide chamber portion 310, which will be described later. However, the perforated plate 20 may be installed at the upper side of the tub 100 without being limited thereto.

As the water in the water tank 100 is boiled by the heating device 200, noise due to the burst sound may be generated when the bubbles burst. To reduce such noise, the humidifying device 10 may be equipped with a perforated plate 20. The water vapor generated in the water tub 100 may pass through the plurality of holes 20h formed in the perforated plate 20 to reduce noise. During the passage through the perforated plate 20, the pressure deviation of the water vapor may be reduced and the temperature may be lowered, whereby noise generated when the water boils may be reduced.

The guide chamber 300 may extend from the water tank 100 to the mixing chamber 500, and may guide water vapor generated in the water tank 100 to the mixing chamber 500. The guide chamber 300 may extend in the flow direction of the water vapor. The guide chamber 300 may extend in the up-down direction (Z direction).

For example, the guide chamber 300 may include a first guide chamber portion 310 and a second guide chamber portion 320 disposed at an upper portion of the first guide chamber portion 310.

As an example, the first guide chamber portion 310 may include a first chamber body 311. The first chamber body 311 may include: a first upper body 311a forming an upper appearance of the first guide chamber portion 310; and a first lower body 311b forming a lower appearance of the first guide chamber portion 310. The first upper body 311a and the first lower body 311b may be provided in different shapes. The first upper body 311a and the first lower body 311b may be provided to have different internal cross-sectional areas. The average inner cross-sectional area of the first upper body 311a may be set smaller than the average inner cross-sectional area of the first lower body 311 b. The inner cross-sectional area of the first lower body 311b may be set to decrease upward.

The first guide chamber portion 310 may include a water tank coupling portion 313 corresponding to the chamber coupling portion 140 of the water tank 100. The water tank coupling portion 313 may be detachably coupled to the chamber coupling portion 140.

The first guide chamber portion 310 may include a plate mounting portion 314 (refer to fig. 5) to which the perforated plate 20 can be mounted. The board mounting portion 314 may be disposed at a lower portion of the first guide chamber portion 310. The plate mounting portion 314 may include a groove shape to enable the insertion of the perforated plate 20.

As an example, the second guide chamber portion 320 may include a second chamber body 321. The second chamber body 321 may include: a second upper body 321a forming an upper appearance of the second guide chamber part 320; and a second lower body 321b forming a lower appearance of the second guide chamber portion 320. The second upper body 321a and the second lower body 321b may be provided in different shapes. The second upper body 321a and the second lower body 321b may be provided to have different internal cross-sectional areas. The average inner cross-sectional area of the second upper body 321a may be set to be greater than the average inner cross-sectional area of the second lower body 321 b. The inner cross-sectional area of the second upper body 321a may be set to increase upward.

The humidifying device 10 may include: the baffle 430 is disposed inside the guide chamber 300 and configured to guide the flow of the water vapor flowing inside the guide chamber 300. The humidifying device 10 may include: the first plate 410 is spaced apart from the lower portion of the baffle 430 in the guide chamber 300. The humidifying device 10 may include: the second plate 420 is spaced above the baffle 430 in the guide chamber 300. For example, the baffle 430 and the first plate 410 may be provided to the first guide chamber portion 310. For example, the second plate 420 may be disposed at the second guide chamber portion 320. The detailed description will be described later.

The mixing chamber 500 may include a base 510, a mixing tower 520, and a vent 530.

The underside of the base 510 may be in communication with the water tub 100 such that water vapor generated in the water tub 100 flows into the base 510. For example, the base 510 may communicate with the sink 100 by way of the guide chamber 300. The underside of the base 510 may communicate with the guide chamber 300 such that water vapor generated in the water tub 100 and passing through the guide chamber 300 flows into the base 510. For example, the susceptor 510 may receive water vapor from the guide chamber 300 through a water vapor inflow portion 513 (see fig. 5) described later.

The upper side of the base 510 may communicate with the fan assembly 600 such that external air flows from the fan assembly 600 into the base 510. The base 510 may communicate with a discharge 622 of the blower fan 620. For example, the base 510 may receive external air from the blower fan 620 through a communication portion 514 described later.

The susceptor 510 may be disposed above the guide chamber 300. The base 510 may be coupled with an upper side of the second guide chamber portion 320. For example, the base 510 may include a guide chamber mounting portion 511 detachably coupled to the second guide chamber portion 320. The guide chamber mounting part 511 may be bent downward from the base 510. The guide chamber mounting part 511 may be coupled in such a manner as to cover the upper end edge of the second guide chamber part 320.

The susceptor 510 may include a water vapor inflow portion 513 (refer to fig. 5) formed below the susceptor 510 to accommodate water vapor guided from the guide chamber 300. For example, the water vapor inflow portion 513 may be formed by opening a lower portion of the base 510.

The base 510 may include a fan mounting portion 512 to which the fan assembly 600 is detachably coupled. A communication portion 514 may be formed at the fan mounting portion 512 to accommodate external air flowing in from the fan assembly 600. The communication portion 514 may communicate the mixing tower 520 with the fan assembly 600. In a state where the fan assembly 600 is mounted to the fan mounting portion 512, the communication portion 514 may correspond to the discharge portion 622 of the blower fan 620.

The mixing tower 520 may extend from the base 510. The mixing tower 520 may extend from the base 510 in the flow direction of the water vapor. The mixing tower 520 may extend upward from the base 510. For example, mixing tower 520 may include a generally hollow cylindrical shape.

The mixing tower 520 may mix the water vapor flowing from the guide chamber 300 with the external air flowing from the fan assembly 600. The mixing tower 520 may form a mixing flow path 521 that mixes the water vapor with the outside air. The mixing flow path 521 may extend long along the flow of the air flow so that the water vapor is sufficiently mixed with the outside air.

In the case where high-temperature steam generated in the water tank is directly scattered to the outside of the humidifying device, the use stability is lowered, and the user's sense of discomfort may be increased. For example, in the case where the user directly contacts high-temperature water vapor, there is a risk of burn.

In contrast, according to an example of the humidifying device 10, the mixing chamber 500 mixes the water vapor generated in the water tub 100 with the external air to be discharged to the outside of the humidifying device 10, so that the use stability and the use satisfaction can be improved. For example, the water vapor flowing from the guide chamber 300 into the mixing chamber 500 flows along the mixing flow path 521 and is mixed with the outside air, so that it can be effectively cooled and vaporization efficiency can be improved. That is, as the high-temperature water vapor flows inside the mixing tower 520 while being mixed with the outside air, the temperature may be lowered, and relatively large water particles contained in the water vapor may be dried. The water vapor mixed with the outside air may be discharged to the outside of the humidifying device 10 through the discharge port 530. Therefore, the risk of burn caused by high-temperature water vapor can be prevented, and water particles can be prevented from splashing upward through the discharge port 530.

For example, the length of the mixing chamber 500 in the up-down direction may be set to be equal to or longer than the length of the guide chamber 300 in the up-down direction. However, this is merely exemplary, and the length of the mixing chamber 500 may be variously set according to the setting environment of the humidifying device 10, the arrangement of the internal constituent members, and the like.

The discharge port 530 may be formed at an upper end portion of the mixing chamber 500, and may discharge the water vapor passing through the mixing flow path 521. The discharge port 530 may discharge the water vapor mixed with the outside air while flowing in the mixing flow path 521.

The fan assembly 600 may include a fan housing 610, a blower fan 620, and a fan drive 630. For example, each of the first and second fan assemblies 600a and 600b may include a fan housing 610, a blower fan 620, and a fan driving part 630.

The fan housing 610 may be configured to house the blower fan 620 and the fan driving part 630. The fan housing 610 may guide air flowing into the blower fan 620 to the mixing chamber 500.

For example, the fan housing 610 may include a first fan housing 611 and a second fan housing 612. The first fan housing 611 and the second fan housing 612 may be detachably coupled. As the first fan housing 611 is combined with the second fan housing 612, an opening portion 613 may be formed. The opening portion 613 may be provided to be formed at the lower side of the fan housing 610 and correspond to the communication portion 514 of the mixing chamber 500. The external air sucked into the suction portion 621 of the blower fan 620 may be discharged to the discharge portion 622 of the blower fan 620, and flows into the interior of the mixing chamber 500 through the opening portion 613 and the communication portion 514.

The blower fan 620 may be provided to forcibly flow the external air. The blower fan 620 may suck air outside the humidifying device 10 and blow the air into the humidifying device 10.

The blower fan 620 may include a suction part 621 sucking external air and a discharge part 622 discharging the external air sucked from the suction part 621. The discharge portion 622 of the blower fan 620 may be in communication with the mixing chamber 500. The discharge portion 622 of the blower fan 620 may be provided to correspond to the communication portion 514. For example, the blower fan 620 may be provided as a centrifugal fan that discharges air in a radial shape.

The fan driving part 630 may be provided to drive the blower fan 620. The fan driving part 630 may share a rotation axis with the blower fan 620 and transmit power to the blower fan 620. For example, the fan driving part 630 may include a motor.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a humidifying device according to an embodiment. Fig. 6 is a view showing a part of a humidifying device in a cutaway manner according to an embodiment. Fig. 7 is a partial enlarged view of the humidifying device shown in fig. 5.

Referring to fig. 5 to 7, the water vapor generated in the water tank 100 may be discharged through the discharge port 530 via the guide chamber 300 and the mixing tower 520 (refer to solid arrows). The external air flowing in from the fan assembly 600 may be mixed with the water vapor flowing in the mixing tower 520 (refer to the dotted arrow).

A baffle (screen) 430 may be disposed inside the guide chamber 300. The baffle 430 may block the central portion of the inside of the guide chamber 300 to block the flow of the water vapor. The baffle 430 may be disposed to cover a central portion of the inside of the guide chamber 300. The baffle 430 may be provided to partition a portion of the interior of the guide chamber 300. For example, the baffle 430 may be disposed in a direction intersecting the flow direction of the water vapor.

The baffle 430 may be configured to switch the flow direction of the water vapor. The baffle 430 may direct the flow of the water vapor such that the water vapor flows inside the guide chamber 300 while bypassing the baffle 430.

The baffle 430 may be spaced apart from the inner sidewall of the guide chamber 300 to form a gap (gap) 450 configured to allow water vapor to pass through. For example, the gap 450 may be a space provided between an inner sidewall of the guide chamber 300 and an edge of the baffle 430. The gap 450 may be a space provided between an inner sidewall of the second guide chamber portion 320 and an edge of the baffle 430.

In general, in the case where water vapor flows inside the chamber, for example, the flow rate of water vapor on the center portion side may be fast and the flow rate of water vapor on the side adjacent to the inner side wall may be slow due to the front shear stress of the inner side wall of the chamber or the like. That is, the water vapor in the region other than the central portion may stagnate. Due to such a deviation in the flow rate of the water vapor, a phenomenon in which the temperature is not uniform and water condensation occurs in the chamber may occur. Water condensed inside the chamber may accumulate sediment inside the chamber to increase the contamination level inside the chamber. In addition, water condensed inside the chamber may fall downward due to the influence of gravity and generate noise.

In addition, as the water boils in the water tank, the water may splash upward. At this time, if the high-temperature water particles are discharged to the outside of the humidifying device, there is a risk of burning for the user. In addition, in the case where relatively large water particles are mixed and discharged to the outside of the humidifying device, uniformity of humidity supplied into the room may be lowered, and thus humidifying efficiency may be lowered. Furthermore, in the case where relatively large water particles directly contact the body of the user or fall onto the floor in the room, discomfort to the user may be increased.

In contrast, according to an example, the baffle 430 may be provided to block the central portion of the guide chamber 300. Thereby, the flow of the water vapor at the central portion of the guide chamber 300 may be blocked by the baffle 430 to slow down the flow rate. Accordingly, the flow rate of the water vapor flowing through the guide chamber 300 can be made uniform. That is, the baffle 430 may eliminate temperature non-uniformity inside the guide chamber 300 and prevent the water condensation phenomenon by reducing the flow rate deviation of the water vapor. Further, the baffle 430 can suppress the condensation of water inside the guide chamber 300, thereby preventing the accumulation of sediment inside the chamber and preventing noise generated when water falls downward.

Further, according to an example, the baffle 430 may be provided to block water particles that splash upward as the water in the water tank 100 boils. For example, the water particles flowing into the guide chamber 300 may collide with the baffle 430 to flow downward. That is, the baffle 430 may prevent relatively large water particles from being discharged through the discharge port 530. For example, the baffle 430 may filter relatively large water particles. Thereby, the use stability and the use satisfaction can be improved.

The first plate 410 may be spaced apart from the inside of the guide chamber 300 below the baffle 430. The first plate 410 may also be referred to as a lower plate 410.

The first plate 410 may be provided to block the flow of water vapor inside the guide chamber 300. The first plate 410 may be provided to divide a portion of the inside of the guide chamber 300.

The first plate 410 may include a first plate body 411 and a first through hole 412 penetrating the first plate body 411. The first through hole 412 may be formed at a central portion of the first plate body 411.

The water vapor passing through the first through-hole 412 may be guided by the baffle 430 to flow into the gap 450. For example, the water vapor passing through the first through-holes 412 may flow along the upper surface 413 of the first plate 410 and the lower surface 430b of the baffle 430 to flow into the gap 450. For example, the water vapor passing through the first through-hole 412 may collide with the lower surface 430b of the baffle 430 to change the direction toward the gap 450. Thereby, the flow rate of the water vapor may be reduced and cooled in the course of being guided by the baffle 430.

The second plate 420 may be spaced apart from the inside of the guide chamber 300 above the baffle 430. The second plate 420 may also be referred to as an upper plate 420.

The second plate 420 may be provided to block the flow of water vapor inside the guide chamber 300. The second plate 420 may be provided to divide a portion of the inside of the guide chamber 300.

The second plate 420 may include a second plate body 421 and a second through hole 422 penetrating the second plate body 421. The second through hole 422 may be formed at a central portion of the second plate body 421.

The water vapor passing through the gap 450 may be guided by the baffle 430 to flow into the second through hole 422. For example, the water vapor passing through the gap 450 may flow along the upper surface 430a of the baffle 430 and the lower surface 424 of the second plate 420 to flow into the second through-holes 422. For example, the direction of the water vapor passing through the gap 450 may be converted toward the second through-hole 422 by the baffle 430 and the second plate 420. Thereby, the flow rate of the water vapor may be reduced and cooled in the course of being guided by the baffle 430.

For example, the first plate 410, the second plate 420, and the baffle 430 may be provided as separate structures and provided to be combined inside the guide chamber 300. For example, at least a portion of the first plate 410, the second plate 420, and the baffle 430 may be formed integrally with the guide chamber 300.

For example, the first guide chamber portion 310 may include a first plate 410 and a baffle 430. The first guide chamber part 310 may further include a connection rib 440 connecting the first plate 410 and the baffle 430. The connection rib 440 may extend in the up-down direction. The connection rib 440 may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of connection ribs 440 may be arranged along the edge of the first through-hole 412 in a spaced apart manner. At least a portion of the first plate 410, the connection rib 440, and the barrier 430 may be integrally formed. At least a portion of the first plate 410, the connection rib 440, and the baffle 430 may be formed integrally with the first guide chamber portion 310.

For example, the second guide chamber portion 320 may include a second plate 420. The second guide chamber portion 320 may be integrally formed at the second plate 420.

An example of the flow of water vapor is described with reference to fig. 5 to 7. The water vapor generated in the water tub 100 may pass through the perforated plate 20. The water vapor passing through the perforated plate 20 may flow inside the first guide chamber portion 310 and flow into the first through holes 412 of the first plate 410. The water vapor flowing into the second guide chamber 320 through the first through hole 412 is prevented from flowing upward by the baffle 430, and can flow toward the inner wall of the guide chamber 300 while changing the direction. For example, the water vapor may flow radially. The water vapor redirected by the baffle 430 may pass through the gap 450. The water vapor passing through the gap 450 may be guided by the baffle 430 while its direction is converted to flow toward the central portion of the guide chamber. The water vapor, which is turned by the baffle 430, may flow into the second through holes 422 of the second plate 420. For example, the water vapor may flow in a meandering shape. Thereby, it may be arranged that the water vapor is cooled during the flow of the inside of the guide chamber 300. It may be arranged that the pressure deviation of the water vapor becomes small in the process of guiding the flow of the inside of the chamber 300. It may be configured that the water vapor flowing into the inside of the mixing chamber 500 is cooled again while being mixed with the outside air. Finally, the relatively low temperature water vapor is discharged through the discharge port 530, so that the use stability of the humidifying device 10 can be improved.

In addition, the baffle 430 may include a shape inclined downward in a direction away from the central portion of the inside of the guide chamber 300 to guide the water flowing in the inside of the guide chamber 300 downward. For example, the baffle 430 may include a central portion convex shape. Accordingly, the water collided with the lower surface 430b of the baffle 430 may flow downward along the slope of the lower surface 430 b. The water falling to the upper surface 430a of the baffle 430 may flow downward along the slope of the upper surface 430 a.

The first plate 410 may include a shape inclined downward toward the first through hole 412 to guide water flowing inside the guide chamber 300 downward. For example, the first plate 410 may include a concave shape. Accordingly, the water flowing inside the guide chamber 300 may be guided along the slope of the first plate 410 to the first through hole 412 formed at the central portion. The water falling to the upper surface 413 of the first plate 410 may be guided to the first through hole 412 along the slope of the upper surface 413 of the first plate 410.

The second plate 420 may include a shape inclined downward toward the second through hole 422 to guide water flowing inside the guide chamber 300 downward. For example, the second plate 420 may include a concave shape. Accordingly, the water flowing inside the guide chamber 300 may be guided along the slope of the second plate 420 to the second through hole 422 formed at the central portion. The water falling to the upper surface 423 of the second plate 420 may be guided to the second through holes 422 along the slope of the upper surface 423 of the second plate 420.

The inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber 300 may be set to be different according to the flow direction of the water vapor. The inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber 300 may be set to be different according to the up-down direction (Z direction) such that the size of the inner cross-sectional area is not uniform (non-uniform). Here, the internal cross-sectional area may refer to a cross-sectional area of a region through which water vapor passes. For example, the inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber may be gradually increased or may be gradually decreased after being gradually increased or may be gradually increased after being gradually decreased according to the flow direction of the water vapor. However, the embodiments are not limited to these specific examples.

The pressure of the water vapor flowing through the guide chamber 300 may be different according to the internal sectional area. In the case where the inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber 300 is small, the pressure of the water vapor may be increased. In the case where the inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber 300 is large, the pressure of the water vapor may be reduced. The pressure of the water vapor may be increased or decreased while flowing in the guide chamber 300. The water vapor may repeat the increase or decrease of the pressure while flowing in the guide chamber 300. Thus, the pressure deviation of the water vapor can be reduced, thereby reducing noise. In addition, the temperature inside the guide chamber 300 can be made uniform, thereby preventing the water condensation phenomenon.

For example, the first lower body 311b of the first guide chamber portion 310 may include a shape in which an inner cross-sectional area gradually decreases upward. The second upper body 321a of the second guide chamber portion 320 may include a shape in which an inner cross-sectional area gradually increases upward.

For example, as the baffle 430, the first plate 410, and the second plate 420 are provided inside the guide chamber 300, the inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber 300 may be set to be changed. The inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber 300 may be repeatedly reduced and increased.

Referring to fig. 7, an inner sectional area of the position P1 where the first through hole 412 is provided may be smaller than an inner sectional area of the position P2 between the first plate 410 and the baffle 430. The inner cross-sectional area of the position P2 between the first plate 410 and the barrier 430 may be greater than the inner cross-sectional area of the position P3 where the barrier 430 is disposed. The inner cross-sectional area of the position P3 where the baffle 430 is disposed may be smaller than the inner cross-sectional area of the position P4 between the baffle 430 and the second plate 420. The inner sectional area of the position P4 between the baffle 430 and the second plate 420 may be larger than the inner sectional area of the position P5 where the second through hole 422 is provided.

For example, the size of the baffle 430 may be larger than the size of the first through hole 412. The baffle 430 may have a diameter greater than the diameter of the first through-hole 412. Accordingly, the water vapor passing through the first through-hole 412 can be prevented from being recirculated to flow again to the first through-hole 412. Further, the water vapor passing through the first through-holes 412 may be effectively guided by the upper surface 413 of the first plate 410 and the lower surface 430b of the baffle 430.

For example, the size of the baffle 430 may be larger than the size of the second through hole 422. The diameter of the baffle 430 may be greater than the diameter of the second through-hole 422. Accordingly, the water vapor passing through the second through-holes 422 can be prevented from being recirculated to flow again to the second through-holes 422. In addition, the water vapor passing through the second through-holes 422 may be effectively guided by the lower surface 424 of the second plate 420 and the upper surface 430a of the baffle 430.

Fig. 8 is a control block diagram of a humidifying device according to an embodiment. Fig. 9 is a flowchart of an example of a control method of the humidifying device according to an embodiment.

Referring to fig. 8, the humidifying device 10 according to an embodiment may include a sensing portion 90, a control portion 50, a communication portion 60, an input portion 70, and a display portion 80. However, each of the configurations of the humidifying device 10 shown in fig. 8 may be omitted according to an embodiment, and may further include a configuration not shown in fig. 8 according to an embodiment.

The sensing part 90 may sense various states of the humidifying device 10.

For example, the sensing part 90 may include a moisture sensing sensor that senses moisture inside the humidifying device 10. The moisture sensing sensor may transmit the moisture information sensed inside the humidifying device 10 to the control portion 50.

For example, the sensing part 90 may include a water level sensing sensor that senses the water level of the water tank 100 of the humidifying device 10. The water level sensing sensor may transmit the water level information sensed in the water tank 100 of the humidifying device 10 to the control portion 50.

The communication section 60 may perform communication with a user terminal (e.g., a portable phone, a tablet computer, a computer (PC), etc.) 700. The input 70 may receive user instructions. The input section 70 may transfer information input by the user to the control section 50. The display portion 80 may display various status and operation information of the humidifying device 10.

The control part 50 may be provided to control operations of the fan driving part 630, the supply pump 180, the drain pump 190, the heating device 200, and the display part 80, respectively.

For example, in the case where the moisture inside the humidifying device 10 exceeds a predetermined level, foreign substances such as sediment may be caught inside the humidifying device 10. To prevent this, the control part 50 may control the fan driving part 630 corresponding to the moisture information received from the moisture sensing sensor. In case that the moisture sensed by the moisture sensing sensor exceeds the moisture of the preset range, the control part 50 may control the fan driving part 630 to start (ON) the blowing fan 620.

For example, the control part 50 may control the fan driving part 630 to not immediately end the operation of the blower fan 620 at the end of the humidification operation, but to be turned OFF (OFF) after a predetermined time has elapsed. That is, when the humidification operation is ended, the blower fan 620 may be set to be turned OFF (OFF) after a preset time elapses.

For example, in a case where the water level of the water tank 100 is lower than the water level of the preset range, the control part 50 may supply water into the water tank 100 by controlling the supply pump 180. In the case where the water level of the sump 100 exceeds the water level of the preset range, the control part 50 may discharge the water in the sump 100 by controlling the drain pump 190. The control unit 50 may control the supply pump 180 to supply water into the water tank 100 when the humidification operation is started. The control unit 50 may control the drain pump 190 to drain the water in the water tank 100 when the humidification operation is completed.

For example, the control unit 50 may control to start the heating device 200 (ON) when the humidification operation starts, and to turn OFF the heating device 200 (OFF) when the humidification operation ends.

Referring to fig. 9, the humidifying device 10 may receive a signal corresponding to the end of the humidifying operation (810). For example, the control section 50 may receive a user input regarding the end of the humidification operation from the input section 70. The humidifying device 10 may determine whether a preset time has elapsed after the end of the humidifying operation (820). After the preset time passes, the blower fan 620 may be in a turned-OFF (OFF) state. For example, the control part 50 may control the on/off of the blower fan 620 by the fan driving part 630.

In addition, the above-described humidifying device 10 may be applied to various home appliances. For example, the home appliance may include at least one of a humidifier, an indoor unit, an air cleaner, and a laundry care machine. However, this is merely an example, and the humidifying device 10 may be applied to any home appliance as long as it is a home appliance designed to require a humidifying operation, and the kind of home appliance is not limited.

The home appliance may include a main body, an external air inflow port, and a steam outflow port.

A humidifying device 10 may be provided inside the main body. The body may be configured to house the humidifying device 10. The main body may house other constituent members other than the humidifying device 10.

The external air inflow port may be provided to allow air to flow in from the outside. The external air inflow port may be disposed corresponding to the fan assembly 600. The outside air inflow port may be provided to communicate with the blower fan 620. For example, the external air inflow port may be formed at a side of the main body.

The water vapor outflow port may be provided so that water vapor generated in the humidifying device 10 flows out to the outside. The water vapor flow outlet may be disposed corresponding to the discharge port 530 of the mixing chamber 500. The water vapor mixed with the outside air in the mixing tower 520 may be discharged to the outside through the discharge port 530 and the water vapor outflow port. For example, the water vapor flow outlet may be formed above the main body.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an example of an air purifier including a humidifying device according to an embodiment. Fig. 11 is a rear perspective view of the air cleaner shown in fig. 10. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in fig. 10.

Referring to fig. 10 to 12, the air cleaner 1 is illustrated as an example of a home appliance including the humidifying device 10.

As shown in fig. 10 to 12, the air cleaner 1 may include a main body 1a. The main body 1a may form an external appearance of the air cleaner 1. For example, the main body 1a may substantially include a box shape. Wheels 1b may be provided at a lower portion of the main body 1a to enable free movement of the air cleaner 1.

The humidifying device 10 that generates water vapor may be housed inside the main body 1a.

The main body 1a may include a suction panel 2 configured to suck external air. The main body 1a may include an exhaust panel 4 configured to exhaust air purified inside the air purifier. For example, the suction panel 2 may be disposed at a first side of the main body 1a, and the discharge panel 4 may be disposed at a second side which is an opposite side of the first side of the main body 1a.

For example, the suction panel 2 may be an external air inflow port of the above-described home appliance.

For example, the suction panel 2 may include a plurality of suction holes 2a. However, not limited thereto, the suction panel 2 may include a suction grill.

For example, the discharge panel 4 may include a plurality of discharge holes 4a. However, not limited thereto, the discharge panel 4 may include a discharge grill.

The air cleaner 1 may include a filter member 5 configured to purify outside air inhaled from the inhalation panel 2. The filter member 5 may be provided to filter foreign substances in the air flowing into the inside of the air cleaner 1.

The air cleaner 1 may include a fan 6 that forcibly blows air. The fan 6 may cause outside air to flow into the inside of the main body 1a of the air cleaner 1 or cause purified air to flow out of the main body 1a of the air cleaner 1. In fig. 12, the case where the fans 6 are two is shown, but not limited thereto, the fans 6 may be provided in one or more than three. In addition, in the case where a plurality of fans 6 are provided, a case where a plurality of fans 6 are arranged in the up-down direction is shown in fig. 12, but this is not a limitation, and a plurality of fans 6 may be arranged in the front-back direction or the left-right direction. For example, the fan 6 may be arranged behind the filter element 5.

The main body 1a may include a water vapor outflow port 3 provided to allow water vapor generated in the humidifying device 10 to flow out to the outside. The water vapor outflow port 3 may be provided in communication with the discharge port 530 of the humidifying device 10. The water vapor outflow port 3 may be provided to correspond to the discharge port 530 of the humidifying device 10. For example, the humidifying device 10 may be arranged behind the fan 6.

In fig. 10 to 12, the case where the steam flow outlet 3 has a shape protruding upward of the main body 1a is shown, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the steam flow outlet 3 may have a shape in which a part of the upper side of the main body 1a penetrates.

An example of the air flow of the air purifier is described with reference to fig. 12.

Referring to fig. 12, the filter member 5, the fan 6, and the humidifying device 10 may be arranged along the flow of air (see arrows). The air sucked into the inside of the main body 1a through the suction hole 2a of the suction panel 2 can be filtered while passing through the filtering member 5 by the blowing force of the fan 6. The air passing through the filter member 5 may be discharged to the discharge side of the fan 6 and discharged to the outside of the main body 1a through the discharge holes 4a of the discharge panel 4. In addition, a part of the air passing through the filter member 5 (or a part of the air passing through the filter member 5 and the fan 6) may flow into the suction portion 621 of the blower fan 620 of the humidifying device 10. The air flowing into the suction portion 621 may be mixed with high-temperature steam in the mixing tower 520. Eventually, the water vapor having a relatively low temperature mixed with the air flowing into the suction portion 621 can flow upward and be discharged through the discharge port 530. The water vapor discharged through the discharge port 530 may be discharged to the outside of the main body 1a of the air cleaner 1 through the water vapor outflow port 3. That is, the air cleaner 1 can perform the humidification operation.

According to the above-described example, the blower fan 620 of the humidifying device 10 may be provided to suck the air purified through the filter member 5. That is, high-temperature water vapor generated in the water tank 100 of the humidifying device 10 may be mixed with the purified air. Accordingly, contamination of the fan assembly 600 and the mixing chamber 500 may be reduced, and the cleaning period of the humidifying device 10 may also be prolonged. However, this is merely an example, and the shape and arrangement of the humidifying device 10 are not limited to the illustrated example.

In addition, as described above, the home appliance to which the humidifying device 10 is applied is not limited to the air purifier. For example, the humidifying device 10 may be provided in an indoor unit of an air conditioner. As an example, in the case of an indoor unit of an air conditioner, a heat exchanger may be additionally provided in the main body 1a shown in fig. 10 to 12.

Specific embodiments have been shown and described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can variously change and implement the present invention without departing from the gist of the technical idea of the invention described in the claims.

Claims

1. A humidifying device, comprising:

A water tank configured to hold water;

a heating device for heating water contained in the water tank;

a discharge chamber disposed above the water tank, including a discharge port for discharging water vapor generated in the water tank due to the water heated by the heating device;

a guide chamber located between the water tank and the discharge chamber, and configured to guide the water vapor generated in the water tank to the discharge chamber; and

a baffle plate positioned at a center portion of an inside of the guide chamber, spaced apart from an inner sidewall of the guide chamber to form a gap between the baffle plate and the inner sidewall, the baffle plate (screen) blocking a flow of the water vapor guided by the guide chamber at the center portion, and causing the water vapor guided by the guide chamber to flow through the gap to be guided by the guide chamber to the discharge chamber.

2. The humidifying device of claim 1, further comprising:

and a lower plate which is disposed in the guide chamber so as to be spaced apart from each other below the baffle plate, and has a through hole formed in a central portion thereof so that the water vapor guided by the guide chamber flows into the gap through the through hole.

3. The humidifying device of claim 1, further comprising:

and an upper plate which is disposed in the guide chamber so as to be spaced apart from each other above the baffle plate, and has a through hole formed in a central portion thereof so that the water vapor flowing through the gap is guided by the upper plate, passes through the through hole, and flows into the discharge chamber.

4. The humidifying device of claim 1, further comprising:

an air supply fan comprising:

a suction unit for sucking external air; and

and a discharge part communicating with the discharge chamber to transfer the external air sucked from the suction part to the discharge chamber.

5. The humidifying device according to claim 4, wherein,

the discharge chamber includes:

a base detachably coupled to an upper portion of the guide chamber; and

and a mixing tower extending from the base in a flow direction of the water vapor and configured to mix the water vapor flowing in from the guide chamber with the external air flowing in from the blower fan.

6. The humidifying device according to claim 1, wherein,

the baffle plate is inclined downward in a direction away from a central portion inside the guide chamber to guide downward water condensed by the water vapor flowing inside the guide chamber and away from the discharge chamber.

7. The humidifying device according to claim 2, wherein,

the lower plate is inclined downward toward the through hole to guide water condensed by the water vapor flowing inside the guide chamber downward and away from the discharge chamber.

8. The humidifying device according to claim 3, wherein,

the upper plate is inclined downward toward the through hole to guide water condensed by the water vapor flowing inside the guide chamber downward and away from the discharge chamber.

9. The humidifying device according to claim 4, wherein,

the humidifying device is set to stop the air supply fan after the preset time passes after the humidifying operation is finished.

10. The humidifying device according to claim 5, wherein,

the air supply fan also comprises a first air supply fan and a second air supply fan,

the mixing tower of the discharge chamber is disposed between the first and second blower fans.

11. The humidifying device of claim 1, further comprising:

a perforated plate disposed between the guide chamber and the water tank to reduce noise generated when the heating device heats water contained in the water tank.

12. The humidifying device according to claim 1, wherein,

the size of the inner cross-sectional area of the guide chamber is not uniform in the flow direction of the water vapor, so that the pressure of the water vapor guided through the guide chamber changes with respect to the previous pressure of the pressure.

13. The humidifying device of claim 1, further comprising:

a first plate disposed in the guide chamber so as to be spaced apart from the baffle plate downward, the first plate including a first through hole formed in a central portion thereof; and

a second plate which is disposed in the guide chamber so as to be spaced above the baffle plate, and which includes a second through hole formed in a central portion of the second plate,

the guide chamber includes:

a first guide chamber part detachably coupled to an upper side of the water tub, including the first plate, the baffle plate, and a connection rib connecting the first plate and the baffle plate; and

and a second guide chamber part detachably coupled to an upper side of the first guide chamber part and communicating with the discharge chamber, including the second plate.

14. The humidifying device according to claim 1, wherein,

the sink includes a bottom and a sidewall extending from the bottom to an upper portion,

The heating device is arranged on the side wall of the water tank.

15. The humidifying device of claim 1, further comprising:

a supply pump connected to the water tank to supply water to the water tank; and

and a drain pump connected with the water tank to drain water contained in the water tank.