JP2011147918A - Electrostatic atomizer and vacuum cleaner - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electric atomizer capable of atomizing moisture immediately. <P>SOLUTION: An insulating sheet 97 is disposed to cover the absorption side of a Peltier element 95. A tip side of a water-absorbent electrode 91 is disposed oppositely to the insulating sheet 97. Moisture is condensed on a surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 which is cooled by flowing current to the Peltier element 95, and adhered to the tip side of each water-absorbent electrode 91. The moisture adhered to the tip side of the water-absorbent electrode 91 can be immediately atomized without soaking up moisture from the base end side to the tip side of the water-absorbent electrode 91. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an electrostatic atomizer that atomizes moisture by natural discharge and a vacuum cleaner equipped with the electrostatic atomizer.

  Conventionally, this type of electrostatic atomizer includes a porous molded body having a plurality of pin-shaped water-absorbing electrodes, and a water supply unit for supplying moisture to the base end side of the porous molded body. . As this water supply part, there exists a tank-shaped thing which stores water, or a thing which supplies the water | moisture content condensed using the Peltier element as a thermoelectric element. Then, the porous molded body is charged to a predetermined DC negative voltage, and the porous molded body sucks up moisture from the water supply portion, and the sucked-up water is atomized from the tip side of the water absorbing electrode into mist containing radicals. Deodorization and sterilization are performed by scattering into the air (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

JP 2008-212887 A (page 4-9, FIG. 1-3) Japanese Patent No. 4016934 (page 3-4, FIG. 1)

  However, in the above-described electrostatic atomizer, moisture is sucked from the proximal end side to the distal end side of the water-absorbing electrode by capillary action, immersed in the entire water-absorbing electrode, and the water is fogged by electric field concentration on the distal end side. Therefore, there is a problem that mist cannot be generated until the water absorbing electrode sucks up moisture.

  This invention is made | formed in view of such a point, and it aims at providing the electrostatic atomizer which can atomize a water | moisture content immediately, and a vacuum cleaner provided with the same.

  The present invention relates to a dew condensation member disposed so as to cover the heat absorption side of the thermoelectric element, and a dew condensation member which is supplied with power from the base end side and whose front end side is disposed opposite to the dew condensation member and is cooled by heat absorption of the thermoelectric element It comprises an electrode that atomizes the condensed moisture into a mist containing radicals by natural discharge from the tip side.

  According to the present invention, when a current is passed through the thermoelectric element, the dew condensation member covering the heat absorption side of the thermoelectric element is cooled, moisture is condensed on the dew condensation member, and the condensed moisture is aggregated to face the dew condensation member. Since it adheres to the distal end side of the electrode, for example, the moisture adhered to the distal end side of the electrode can be immediately atomized without sucking up moisture from the proximal end side of the electrode to the distal end side.

It is a perspective sectional view showing the electrostatic atomizer of the 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows an electrostatic atomizer same as the above. It is a partial exploded perspective view which shows an electrostatic atomizer same as the above from the front side. It is a partial exploded perspective view which shows an electrostatic atomizer same as the above from the back side. It is a perspective view which shows an electrostatic atomizer same as the above. It is a disassembled perspective view of the discharge side of an electrostatic atomizer same as the above. It is a perspective view which shows the water supply side of an electrostatic atomizer same as the above. It is explanatory side view which shows typically the internal structure of the vacuum cleaner provided with the electrostatic atomizer same as the above. It is a perspective view which shows a vacuum cleaner same as the above. It is explanatory side view which shows typically the internal structure of the vacuum cleaner of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the electrostatic atomizer of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In FIG. 9, reference numeral 11 denotes a so-called canister-type circulation electric vacuum cleaner. The electric vacuum cleaner 11 includes a pipe portion 12 that is a suction air passage body and a vacuum cleaner to which the pipe portion 12 is detachably connected. And a main body 13.

  The pipe part 12 is provided on the distal end side of the hose body 16, the connecting pipe part 15 connected to the cleaner body 13, the flexible hose body 16 communicating with the distal end side of the connecting pipe part 15. The hand operating section 17, the extension pipe 18 that is detachably connected to the distal end side of the hand operating section 17, and the detachable connection selectively connected to the distal end side of the extension pipe 18 or the distal end side of the hose body 16. And a floor brush 19 as a suction port body.

  On the hand operating portion 17, a gripping portion 21 protrudes toward the hose body 16, and the gripping portion 21 is provided with a plurality of setting buttons 22 for operation.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the cleaner body 13 includes a body case 25 formed in a hollow shape by a synthetic resin or the like, and inside the body case 25, from the front part to the rear part, A first partition wall 26, a second partition wall 27, a third partition wall 28, and a fourth partition wall 29 are sequentially formed, and a primary dust separation means is provided between the first partition wall 26 and the second partition wall 27. A filter 31 is disposed, and a secondary filter 32 as a second dust separating means is disposed between the second partition wall 27 and the third partition wall 28. For this reason, a dust collection chamber 34 is defined in the main body case 25 between the first partition wall 26 and the primary filter 31, and the first intake chamber 35 is defined between the primary filter 31 and the second partition wall 27. , A second intake chamber 36 is defined between the second partition wall 27 and the secondary filter 32, a third intake chamber 37 is defined between the secondary filter 32 and the third partition wall 28, and a third A fourth intake chamber 38 is defined between the partition wall 28 and the fourth partition wall 29, and a blower chamber 39 is defined between the fourth partition wall 29 and the rear portion of the main body case 25. Further, a first ventilation air passage 41 as a connection air passage that connects the second intake chamber 36 and the dust collecting chamber 34 in an airtight manner is formed inside the main body case 25, and the first intake chamber 35 and the fourth intake air are connected. A second ventilation air passage 42 is formed as a connection air passage portion that hermetically connects the chamber 38, and a third ventilation air passage 43 is formed as a communication air passage connecting the blower chamber 39 and the second intake chamber 36. Is formed. Therefore, a circulation air passage 45 that circulates from the blower chamber 39 toward the dust collection chamber 34 is formed by the third ventilation air passage 43, the second intake chamber 36, and the first ventilation air passage 41. Further, a main body suction port 47 to which the connecting pipe portion 15 of the pipe portion 12 is connected is formed in the front portion of the main body case 25, and a main body exhaust that communicates the blower chamber 39 and the outside air is formed in the rear portion of the main body case 25. A plurality of ports 48 are formed. In the blower chamber 39, an electric blower 51 is disposed, and a control means 52 as a main body control unit for controlling the driving of the electric blower 51 is disposed below the electric blower 51, and a third ventilation air passage is provided. 43, that is, an electrostatic atomizer 53 is arranged in the circulation air passage 45. The main body case 25 includes a lid 55 that opens and closes the dust collection chamber 34. Further, the main body case 25 is configured such that traveling wheels 56 (only one is shown) are rotatably attached to both sides so that the cleaner body 13 can travel on the floor surface as a surface to be cleaned.

  The first partition wall 26 is positioned to face the rear part of the main body suction port 47. The first partition wall 26 is provided with a normally open first on-off valve 61 such as an electromagnetic valve as a first on-off means for switching between communication between the main body suction port 47 and the dust collection chamber 34. Yes. Further, a first ventilation air passage 41 communicates with the first partition wall 26 and is connected to the dust collection chamber 34 in an airtight manner.

  The second partition wall 27 is provided with a normally open second opening / closing valve 63 such as an electromagnetic valve as second opening / closing means for switching between communication and blocking between the first intake chamber 35 and the second intake chamber 36. .

  A normally open third opening / closing valve 65 such as an electromagnetic valve is attached to the third partition wall 28 as third opening / closing means for switching between communication and blocking between the third intake chamber 37 and the blower chamber 39.

  The fourth partition wall 29 includes a facing portion 67 that constitutes a lower portion facing the third partition wall 28, a protruding portion 68 that protrudes horizontally from the upper end portion of the facing portion 67, and an upward direction from the protruding portion 68. And an extending portion 69 that extends.

  The opposed portion 67 is formed with an intake cylinder portion 71 that protrudes forward toward the third partition wall 28. The intake cylinder portion 71 has a front end portion (upstream end portion) that abuts against the rear surface of the third partition wall 28 via a seal member (not shown) and the inside thereof is connected to the third on-off valve 65 in an airtight manner. ing. An opening 73 that communicates with the fourth intake chamber 38 is formed in the lower portion of the intake cylinder portion 71.

  The protruding portion 68 is a portion constituting a part of the lower side of the third ventilation air passage 43, and the electrostatic atomizer 53 is placed thereon. Further, the secondary filter 32 is disposed below the projecting portion 68.

  Further, the primary filter 31 filters dust in the dust-containing air, for example, to separate it from air. Accordingly, the dust collection chamber 34 is configured to collect dust.

  The secondary filter 32 functions as a final filter, for example. That is, the secondary filter 32 can collect dust (fine dust) that could not be collected by the primary filter 31, and for example, surface dust collection such as a pleated filter having pleats (soot) along the vertical direction. A filter is used. Further, a dust removing means 75 is attached to the rear portion of the secondary filter 32 to remove dust collected by the secondary filter 32 by applying vibrations to the secondary filter 32, for example.

  The first ventilation air passage 41 extends downward from the position of the front part of the secondary filter 32 of the second intake chamber 36, and passes through the lower sides of the first intake chamber 35 and the dust collection chamber 34. It communicates with the front end of the dust collection chamber 34. Further, in the first ventilation air passage 41, a normally closed fourth on-off valve 76 such as an electromagnetic valve as a fourth on-off means for switching the communication between the second intake chamber 36 and the dust collecting chamber 34 is cut off. Is attached.

  The second ventilation air passage 42 extends downward from the position of the rear portion of the primary filter 31 of the first intake chamber 35, passes through the lower portions of the second intake chamber 36 and the third intake chamber 37, and enters the fourth intake chamber. It communicates with the bottom of 38. Further, in the second ventilation air passage 42, a normally closed fifth on-off valve such as an electromagnetic valve serving as a fifth on-off means for switching between communication between the first intake chamber 35 and the fourth intake chamber 38 is cut off. 78 is installed.

  The third ventilation air passage 43 is formed along the protruding portion 68 of the fourth partition wall 29 so as to extend from the upper portion of the blower chamber 39 to the front portion. The third ventilation air passage 43 has a normally closed sixth opening / closing member such as an electromagnetic valve as sixth opening / closing means for switching communication between the third ventilation air passage 43 and the second intake chamber 36. A valve 81 is attached to the extending portion 69 of the fourth partition wall 29.

  In addition, the electric blower 51 includes an intake port 83 at the front end and an exhaust port 84 on the outer periphery on the rear end side. In the electric blower 51, an intake port 83 is airtightly connected to a rear end portion of the intake cylinder portion of the fourth partition wall 29 via a seal member (not shown).

  The control means 52 is supplied with power from, for example, a commercial AC power supply or a secondary battery, the setting button 22, the electric blower 51, the on-off valves 61, 63, 65, 76, 78, 81, the dust removing means 75, and It is electrically connected to the electrostatic atomizer 53 and the like. The control means 52 controls, for example, phase angle control of the driving of the electric blower 51 in response to the setting operation of the operator by the setting button 22, and opens / closes the on-off valves 61, 63, 65, 76, 78, 81. , And driving of the electrostatic atomizer 53 are controlled.

  The electrostatic atomizer 53 generates a fine mist M having a pico-size or nano-size containing radicals such as OH radicals. For example, as shown in FIGS. A first case 86 which is an atomizing main body side case, a second case 87 as a holding case accommodated in the first case 86, and a third case 88 which is a dew condensation part side case as a water supply part side case For example, a case body 89 made of synthetic resin, which is a case that can be divided into two, is provided. Further, the electrostatic atomizer 53 includes a discharge electrode portion 92 that holds a plurality of water absorbing electrodes 91 as electrodes in a first case 86 and a second case 87 of the case body 89, and a water supply sheet 93 as a water supply member. And a conductive sheet 94 as a conductive portion are integrally assembled in a unit shape, and a Peltier element 95 as a thermoelectric element, a heat transfer plate 96 as a heat conductive member, a dew condensation member (cover) An insulating sheet 97 that is a resin member (insulating member) as a member and a heat radiating plate (heat sink) 98 as a heat radiating member are integrally assembled in a unit shape.

  The first case 86 is formed in, for example, a rectangular box shape having an opening on the third case 88 side, and one and other openings 101 and 102 are formed on both sides of the first case 86. In addition, an upper fixing portion 103 for locking and fixing the second case 87 and the third case 88 is formed at the center of the upper portion of the first case 86. Further, a lower fixing portion 104 for locking and fixing the third case 88 is formed at the center of the lower portion of the first case 86. Further, on both sides of the lower fixing portion 104 of the first case 86, a locking fixing portion 105 (only one is shown) for locking and fixing the second case 87 is formed to project upward in a claw shape. Yes. The first case 86 is configured such that air passing through the circulation air passage 45 passes through the inside of the case body 89 from one opening 101 to the other opening 102.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 2, 5, and 6, the second case 87 is formed in a rectangular frame shape that can be fitted into the first case 86. That is, an insertion opening 106 through which each water absorbing electrode 91 of the discharge electrode portion 92 is inserted is formed in the center portion of the second case 87. Further, boss portions 107 that are pressing portions for pressing the water supply sheet 93 are formed to protrude from the four corners of one main surface of the second case 87 on the third case 88 side. Further, an insertion portion 108 into which a water supply sheet 93 is inserted and attached is formed in a slit shape below the insertion opening 106 of the second case 87. In addition, a holding portion 109 for holding the discharge electrode portion 92 is formed in a step shape around the other main surface side of the insertion opening 106 of the second case 87. The second case 87 is locked and fixed in the first case 86 at the upper and lower positions by the upper fixing portion 103 and the locking fixing portion 105.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the third case 88 is formed in, for example, a rectangular frame shape covering the opening of the first case 86, and is fixed by the fixing portions 103 and 104 of the first case 86. In the state, it faces the second case 87 fixed in the first case 86 substantially in parallel. Further, for example, a rectangular attachment opening 111 to which the Peltier element 95 is attached is formed at the center of the third case 88, and the Peltier element 95 is fitted around the attachment opening 111. A holding frame portion 112 having a rectangular frame shape for holding is formed. Further, a holding step 113 for holding the heat transfer plate 96 is formed in a step shape at a position on the second case 87 side of the mounting opening 111 of the third case 88. Further, on the opposite side of the third case 88 to the second case 87, a frame part 114 for fitting and holding the heat sink 98 is enclosed in a rectangular frame shape surrounding the outside of the holding frame part 112. Is formed.

  Thus, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, the case body 89 includes the first case 86 and the second case 87, the water absorbing electrode 91 (discharge electrode portion 92), the water supply sheet 93, and the conductive sheet 94. And the third case 88 are fixed integrally with the Peltier element 95, the heat transfer plate 96, the insulating sheet 97, and the heat sink 98 to form the dew condensation unit U2. ing. Further, the dew condensation unit U2 is integrally held and held on the discharge unit U1 by the fixing portions 103 and 104 of the first case 86.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, each water-absorbing electrode 91 has water-absorbing properties, water-retaining properties, and moisture-absorbing characteristics. For example, the pin-like shape formed of a porous molded body or a fiber body is used. It is a rod-shaped body. Each water-absorbing electrode 91 has a tip portion that is narrower than a base end portion. For this reason, each water absorbing electrode 91 is configured to generate a pico-sized or nano-sized fine mist M containing OH radicals by natural discharge from the tip side. In other words, no counter electrode is disposed in the vicinity of each water absorbing electrode 91.

  Further, the discharge electrode portion 92 is formed in a trapezoidal shape corresponding to the insertion opening 106 of the second case 87, for example, with insulating synthetic resin, and a plurality of water absorbing electrodes 91 are inserted at substantially equal intervals. As a result, the water absorbing electrodes 91 are integrally held.

  The water supply sheet 93 is formed of a member having water absorption and water retention properties such as a sponge. Further, the water supply sheet 93 includes a water absorbing portion 117 that is in close contact with the insulating sheet 97, an insertion portion 118 that is a continuous portion with one end continuous to the lower portion of the water absorbing portion 117, and a second end portion of the insertion portion 118. A continuous supply unit 119 is integrally provided.

  The water absorbing portion 117 is formed in a rectangular frame shape (frame shape) having a rectangular window portion 117a in the central portion, for example, and each boss portion of the second case 87 in a state where the units U1 and U2 are fixed to each other. 107 is pressed against the insulating sheet 97 around the mounting opening 111 of the third case 88. That is, the water absorption part 117 is located between the second case 87 (discharge part unit U1) and the third case 88 (condensation part unit U2).

  The window part 117a is an opening through which the tip side of each water absorbing electrode 91 and the insulating sheet 97 face.

  The insertion part 118 is a part that is inserted into the insertion part 108 of the second case 87.

  The supply unit 119 is a portion sandwiched between the conductive sheet 94 and the first case 86, and is configured to carry the water sucked up by the water absorption unit 117 to the conductive sheet 94 via the insertion unit 118. Yes.

  The conductive sheet 94 is formed of a member having water absorption and water retention, and is in close contact with the back side of the discharge electrode portion 92, that is, the proximal end side of the water absorbent electrode 91, and the proximal end side of these water absorbent electrodes 91. And are electrically connected. In addition, the conductive sheet 94 protrudes out of the case body 89 through the lead-out opening 120 formed in the upper part of the first case 86 and protrudes outside the case body 89, and the protrusion 94a is connected to the electric blower 51 (FIG. 8). ) Etc. are electrically connected to a DC power supply (not shown) that generates a negative voltage of, for example, about −10 to −4 kV, preferably about −6 kV, from a commercial AC power supply for supplying power to a secondary battery or the like. Therefore, the conductive sheet 94 is configured to supply power to each water absorbing electrode 91 from the base end side by a voltage from the DC power supply unit, and to charge these water absorbing electrodes 91 negatively.

  The Peltier element 95 converts electric energy into heat energy, and is a heat exchanger having a heat absorption side surface 95a on the heat absorption side and a heat radiation side surface 95b on the heat radiation side. In the Peltier element 95, lead wires 95c and 95d are inserted into lead holes 122 and 123 formed in the upper portion of the third case 88 and electrically connected to a power source (not shown). The temperature can be controlled by controlling the current according to FIG. Further, the Peltier element 95 is attached to the attachment opening 111 of the third case 88 so that the heat absorbing side surface 95a faces the second case 87 side.

  The heat transfer plate 96 is formed in a rectangular flat plate shape that is larger than the heat absorption side surface 95a of the Peltier element 95 by a member such as aluminum having excellent heat transfer properties, such as aluminum, and a heat dissipation member is disposed on the heat absorption side surface 95a of the Peltier element 95. The heat-absorbing side surface 95a is thermally connected to the heat-absorbing side surface 95a. Further, the heat transfer plate 96 is substantially flush with the main surface of the third case 88 on the second case 87 side in a state where the heat transfer plate 96 is fitted and held in the holding step portion 113 of the third case 88.

  The insulating sheet 97 is formed in a rectangular thin film layer larger than the mounting opening 111, and abuts against and covers the heat absorbing side surface 95a of the Peltier element 95, here, the heat transfer plate 96. The third case 88 is attached to the main surface of the second case 87 side. That is, the insulating sheet 97 is disposed so as to be cooled by the heat absorption of the Peltier element 95. In this state, the outer edge portion of the insulating sheet 97 is located outward from the mounting opening 111. Further, the insulating sheet 97 has a water repellent finish on at least a surface 97a which is a dew condensation surface opposite to the heat transfer plate 96 (Peltier element 95), and the units U1 and U2 are connected to each other on the surface 97a. In the fixed state, the front end side of each water absorbing electrode 91 is opposed to the window portion 117a through a predetermined gap that contacts the water droplet W grown by condensation of moisture condensed on the surface 97a. The water absorbing portion 117 of the water supply sheet 93 is pressed against the surface 97a around the position where these water absorbing electrodes 91 face each other, that is, outside the mounting opening 111, in other words, around the heat transfer plate 96. .

  The heat radiating plate 98 is formed of a member such as aluminum having excellent heat conductivity, such as aluminum, and is fixed to the heat radiating side surface 95b of the Peltier element 95 with heat radiating silicone or the like as a heat radiating member. Thermally connected. The heat sink 98 can have any shape and material as long as it has predetermined thermal characteristics.For example, the heat sink 98 has a plurality of fins 98a protruding to the opposite side of the Peltier element 95. Yes. For example, the fins 98a are arranged in a lattice pattern so as to be spaced apart from each other at approximately equal intervals, and are formed so as to be exposed to the air in the blower chamber 39 (circulation air passage 45).

  In the electrostatic atomizer 53, the heat absorbing side surface 95a of the Peltier element 95, the insulating sheet 97, and the water absorbing portion 117 of the water supply sheet 93 are each in an angle with respect to the horizontal direction, and in this embodiment, along the vertical direction. As shown in FIG. That is, the second case 87 and the third case 88 are locked and fixed to the first case 86 in a vertical manner.

  Next, the operation of the first embodiment will be described.

  In the control means 52 shown in FIG. 8, for example, a normal cleaning mode used for cleaning the surface to be cleaned and a dust removal mode for cleaning the filters 31 and 32 are set. Hereinafter, the dust removal mode is performed, for example, immediately after the end of the cleaning mode.For example, a configuration performed immediately before the start of the cleaning mode, a configuration performed immediately before the start of the cleaning mode, and immediately after the end of the cleaning mode, or a cleaning operation is performed. You may comprise so that it may be performed at arbitrary timings, such as a structure performed when interrupted more than predetermined time.

  In the cleaning mode, for example, the control means 52 first prepares the first opening / closing as a preparation in a state where power can be supplied from a commercial AC power source connected via a power cord (not shown) or a secondary battery incorporated in the main body case 25. Each of the valve 61, the second on-off valve 63, and the third on-off valve 65 is kept open, and each of the fourth on-off valve 76, the fifth on-off valve 78, and the sixth on-off valve 81 is closed. Maintain state.

  In this state, the control means 52 drives the electric blower 51 in the operator's desired operation mode input via the setting button 22 shown in FIG. 9, and supplies a predetermined current to the Peltier element 95 shown in FIG. Then, the temperature of the Peltier element 95 is controlled.

  The Peltier element 95 absorbs heat from the heat absorbing side surface 95a and radiates heat from the heat radiating side surface 95b in accordance with the flowing current. In the heat radiating side surface 95b, heat is radiated into the blower chamber 39 (FIG. 8) through the heat radiating plate 98 thermally connected to the heat radiating side surface 95b, thereby radiating heat and efficiently absorbing heat. 95 efficiently absorbs heat from the endothermic side surface 95a and causes a rapid temperature difference with respect to the outside air temperature.

  At this time, the heat transfer plate 96 thermally connected to the heat absorption side surface 95a of the Peltier element 95 is cooled to a temperature substantially equal to the heat absorption side surface 95a, and the insulating sheet 97 covering the heat transfer plate 96 is similarly cooled. . For this reason, moisture contained in the air in the blower chamber 39 (FIG. 8) that has entered the inside of the case body 89 is condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 having water repellency.

  Then, the operator grips the gripping portion 21 shown in FIG. 9, moves the floor brush 19 on the surface to be cleaned, and sucks dust together with air.

  At this time, the dust-containing air is sucked into the main body case 25 from the main body suction port 47 after moving the tube portion 12 from the distal end side to the proximal end side. Then, as shown in FIG. 8, the dust-containing air first reaches the dust collection chamber 34 through the open first on-off valve 61, and then is relatively large dust, that is, coarse dust by the primary filter 31. Separated into air. For this reason, the separated coarse dust is collected in the dust collection chamber 34.

  In addition, the air that has passed through the primary filter 31 and has flowed into the first intake chamber 35 flows into the second intake chamber 36 through the open second on-off valve 63 and is relatively small dust by the secondary filter 32. That is, it is separated into fine dust and air. For this reason, while the fine dust is captured on the upstream surface 32a of the secondary filter 32, the air that has passed through the secondary filter 32 and flows into the third intake chamber 37 is opened. The air passes through 65 and further passes through the intake cylinder portion 71 and is sucked into the electric blower 51 from the intake port 83. Then, the exhaust gas flowing out from the exhaust port 84 of the electric blower 51 into the blower chamber 39 is discharged to the outside of the main body case 25 (the vacuum cleaner main body 13) through the main body exhaust port 48. The air flow is indicated by a solid line A1 in FIG.

  On the other hand, in the dust removal mode, when the operator operates the predetermined setting button 22 to finish cleaning, the control means 52 first prepares the first on-off valve 61, the second on-off valve 63, and the first Each of the three on-off valves 65 is maintained in a closed state, and each of the fourth on-off valve 76, the fifth on-off valve 78, and the sixth on-off valve 81 is maintained in an open state.

  Thereafter, the control means 52 energizes the conductive sheet 94 of the electrostatic atomizer 53 (electrostatic atomizer 53 is on) and performs input control for driving the electric blower 51. The input of the electric blower 51 in this case is assumed to be lower than the maximum input given to the electric blower 51 in the cleaning mode, for example.

  Here, in the electrostatic atomizer 53, as shown in FIG. 1, moisture condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 is aggregated, and the water droplets W on which the aggregated moisture has grown are interspersed with the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97. It adheres to the front end side of each water-absorbing electrode 91 that faces through. Since a high-voltage negative voltage is applied to each water absorbing electrode 91 via the conductive sheet 94, electric field concentration occurs on the tip side of these water absorbing electrodes 91, spontaneous discharge occurs, and the water absorbing electrodes 91 An invisible mist M (FIG. 8) of pico-sized or nano-sized (about 500 pm to 5,000 pm) is immediately split and scattered by an electric action exceeding the surface tension of water directly attached to the tip side by surface tension and capillary action. To do.

  Further, when the amount of water aggregated on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 is relatively large, a part of the water absorption portion of the water supply sheet 93 from the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 is indicated by an arrow X1 in FIG. The water is absorbed by 117, and is conveyed from the water absorption part 117 to the conductive sheet 94 as shown by the arrow X3 in FIG. 1 through the insertion part 118 and the supply part 119 as shown by the arrow X2, and is sucked up by the conductive sheet 94. Then, it is carried to the proximal end side of the water absorbing electrode 91. This water is sucked up to the tip side by time by capillary action by each water-absorbing electrode 91 and atomized in the same manner as the water adhering to the tip side of each water-absorbing electrode 91 to become mist M (FIG. 8). Scatter.

  The scattered mist M is discharged into the air in the circulation air passage 45 passing through the case body 89 shown in FIG.

  Further, as the electric blower 51 is driven, the intake negative pressure is changed into the intake cylinder portion 71, the opening 73, the fourth intake chamber 38, the second ventilation air passage 42, the first intake chamber 35, the dust collection chamber 34, By sequentially acting on the first ventilation air passage 41, the second intake air passage 36, and the third ventilation air passage 43, the exhaust discharged from the exhaust port 84 of the electric blower 51 to the blower chamber 39 is transferred to the third ventilation air passage. It flows into the second intake chamber 36 through 43. As a result, as indicated by a broken line A2 in FIG. 8, the exhaust of the electric blower 51 circulates to the dust collection chamber 34 side through the circulation air passage 45, and the mist M is circulated through the circulation air passage 45, the dust collection chamber 34, The first intake chamber 35, the second ventilation air passage 42, the fourth intake chamber 38 and the intake cylinder portion 71 are scattered all over the corner.

  Since the exhaust gas circulating as described above is supplied with a fine mist M containing OH radicals generated by the electrostatic atomizer 53, the mist M causes the thickness of the secondary filter 32 during the circulation process. Without passing in the direction, flows from the upper side to the lower side along the surface 32a on the upstream side (upstream side in the cleaning mode) of the secondary filter 32, and further through the first ventilation air passage 41, the dust collecting chamber Flows into 34. At this time, the exhaust from the electric blower 51 is blown against the upstream surface 32a of the secondary filter 32, and the fine dust collected on the surface 32a is blown downward.

  Further, the control means 52 drives the dust removing means 75 to apply vibration to the secondary filter 32, and removes fine dust collected by the secondary filter 32 from the secondary filter 32. The removed fine dust floats in the second air intake chamber 36, and the mist M acts on the fine dust that has floated.

  Further, the circulated exhaust gas passes through the second intake air passage 42 from the dust collection chamber 34, bypasses the secondary filter 32, and passes through the fourth intake chamber 38 and the opening 73 of the intake cylinder portion 71. It is sucked into the air inlet 83 of the electric blower 51 and does not pass through the secondary filter 32 in the thickness direction. In other words, the intake negative pressure of the electric blower 51 acts on the secondary filter 32 from the rear side (downstream side), and fine dust is attracted to the upstream surface 32a of the secondary filter 32. Absent. For this reason, the secondary filter 32 is easily dust-removed by the dust removing means 75, and the removed fine dust moves to the dust collecting chamber 34 along the flow of exhaust gas passing through the second intake chamber 36.

  As described above, the electrostatic atomizer is applied to the floating dust (fine dust) removed from the secondary filter 32 and moved to the dust collecting chamber 34, and the coarse dust collected in the dust collecting chamber 34. The OH radicals contained in the mist M generated by 53 repeatedly act, so that decomposition of various bacteria, that is, sterilization (sterilization) and deodorization are performed effectively. These sterilizing action and deodorizing action are also given to the secondary filter 32 itself.

  When the control means 52 determines that a predetermined time, for example, about 10 seconds has elapsed since the start of the dust removal mode, the control means 52 stops the dust removal means 75. At the stage immediately after the end of cleaning when the dust removal mode is started, the fine dust collected by the secondary filter 32 has not yet solidified and does not exhibit strong adhesive force. The fine dust collected by the secondary filter 32 can be sufficiently removed by driving.

  Further, when the control means 52 determines that a predetermined time, for example, about 20 seconds to 30 seconds has elapsed since the start of the dust removal mode, the control means 52 supplies power to the conductive sheet 94 and the Peltier element 95 of the electrostatic atomizer 53 and the electric blower. Stop the power supply to each 51 and finish the dust removal mode.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, by passing a current through the Peltier element 95, the insulating sheet 97 that covers the heat transfer plate 96 on the heat absorption side of the Peltier element 95 is cooled. Moisture is condensed on the surface 97a, and the condensed moisture aggregates and adheres to the distal end side of each water absorbing electrode 91 facing the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97. For example, from the proximal end side to the distal end side of the water absorbing electrode 91 The water adhering to the tip side of the water-absorbing electrode 91 can be immediately atomized without sucking up the water.

  That is, in the first embodiment, moisture can be directly adhered to the tip side of each water absorbing electrode 91 that atomizes moisture on the tip side. The time from when the electrostatic atomizer 53 is driven to when the mist M scatters can be shortened, in other words, the time difference between the dew condensation phenomenon and the atomization phenomenon can be almost eliminated, and the immediate effect is excellent.

  Further, the efficiency of electric field concentration on the tip side of each water-absorbing electrode 91 is increased by making the tip side of each water-absorbing electrode 91 face the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 via a predetermined minute gap. In addition, each water absorbing electrode 91 is instantly contacted with the tip of the water droplets condensed and condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97. Heat conduction to the insulating sheet 97 (heat transfer plate 96, Peltier element 95) side can be cut off, and the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 can be kept at a low temperature to prevent loss during condensation. Can be prevented.

  In addition, by making the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 water-repellent, the height of the water droplets condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 is increased, so even if the amount of condensed water is small, each water absorption is efficiently performed. Can be supplied to the tip side of the conductive electrode 91.

  In addition, a water absorbing portion 117 is provided around the position of the insulating sheet 97 that faces the distal end side of the water absorbing electrode 91, and a part of the moisture condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 is transferred to the proximal end side of the water absorbing electrode 91. When a large amount of moisture is condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 by having the water supply sheet 93 to be conveyed, the moisture is transferred to the base end side of each water absorbing electrode 91 via the water supply sheet 93. Since water can be sucked up by the water absorbing electrode 91, moisture condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 can be used effectively.

  Further, since the heat absorption side of the Peltier element 95, the insulating sheet 97 and the water absorbing portion 117 of the water supply sheet 93 are arranged at an angle with respect to the horizontal direction, for example, vertically, dew condensation occurs on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97. Water can be grown larger, and this water can be reliably absorbed into the water absorption part 117.

  And, when carrying the water absorbed by the water absorption part 117 of the water supply sheet 93 to the proximal end side of the water absorbing electrode 91, since it is carried from the water absorption part 117 to the supply part 119 via the insertion part 118, supply Although the route is long and it takes time to transport moisture, the water supply sheet 93 has high water retention performance, so it can not only reliably transport moisture to the water absorbing electrode 91 but also a large amount on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97. Even when moisture is condensed, water leakage can be prevented, and the range of use environment and use time can be expanded.

  Furthermore, by subjecting the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 to water repellency, moisture condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 can be more reliably aggregated and supplied to each water absorbing electrode 91.

  Further, the heat absorbing side of the Peltier element 95 is covered with an insulating sheet 97, and moisture is condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97.For example, moisture is absorbed on the heat absorbing side of the Peltier element 95, for example, the heat absorbing side surface 95a or the heat transfer plate 96. As in the case of direct condensation, it is possible to prevent the endothermic side surface 95a or the heat transfer plate 96 from being corroded or damaged due to repeated moisture condensation and drying. That is, the insulating sheet 97 can protect the Peltier element 95 and the heat transfer plate 96 from moisture.

  Then, the mist M generated in the electrostatic atomizer 53 is applied to the dust collected in the dust collection chamber 34 of the vacuum cleaner 11, thereby disinfecting the dust collected in the dust collection chamber 34. Deodorized. That is, in the case of the vacuum cleaner 11, since it is common to collect dust in the dust collecting chamber 34 until a certain amount is collected, bacteria and odor are likely to be generated in this dust. By being able to sterilize and deodorize using the gasifying device 53, bad odor can be suppressed even when dust is collected in the dust collection chamber 34 for a long period of time or when a large amount of dust is collected in the dust collection chamber 34.

  In particular, since the vacuum cleaner 11 generally has a relatively short drive (energization) time, by using the electrostatic atomizer 53, the condensed water is immediately removed even in a short drive time. And since it can be atomized reliably, it is easy to use.

  In addition, by disposing the above-described electrostatic atomizer 53 in the circulation air passage 45, the mist M containing radicals generated in the electrostatic atomizer 53 is circulated to the dust collection chamber 34, thereby collecting the dust. It is possible to repeatedly act on the dust inside the filter 34 and the filters 31 and 32, that is, increase the chance of contact, so that bacteria can be effectively sterilized and deodorized.

  In particular, in the above configuration in which the dust (fine dust) collected on the upstream surface 32a of the secondary filter 32 is blown off by the exhaust gas circulating in the circulation air passage 45, the chance that the mist M acts on the dust is further increased. Therefore, the efficiency of deodorization and sterilization can be further improved.

  Further, the dust removal mode prevents dust from being attracted to the secondary filter 32 by the circulating exhaust flow, so that the fine dust collected by the secondary filter 32 can be easily removed by driving the dust removing means 75. The fine dust removed from the secondary filter 32 during dust removal can be sterilized and deodorized by the mist M.

  Furthermore, since the electrostatic atomizer 53 generates mist M by spontaneous discharge of each water absorbing electrode 91, it suppresses the generation of ozone compared to an atomizer that has a counter electrode and generates mist by corona discharge or the like. It is possible to cut off the leakage of ozone from the main body case 25 from the beginning.

  Since the moisture in the circulation air passage 45, in other words, moisture in the atmosphere is condensed and supplied to each water absorbing electrode 91, it can be used as a vacuum cleaner 11 without selecting a place, and water supply is not required. That is, since it can be configured as a water supply-free (maintenance-free) configuration, it is easy to use such that an operator or the like does not have to supply water and the range of use is widened.

  In the first embodiment, details such as the circulation air passage 45 are not limited to the above configuration. That is, in the normal cleaning mode, each air intake chamber, as long as it is configured to suck air through the dust collection chamber 34 and circulate the exhaust of the electric blower 51 to the dust collection chamber 34 in the dust removal mode, Arrangement and number of each ventilation air passage, each on-off valve, etc. can be arbitrarily set.

  Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the structure and effect | action similar to the said 1st Embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In the second embodiment, the vacuum cleaner 11 provided with the electrostatic atomizer 53 of the first embodiment is a non-circulating type so-called cyclonic vacuum cleaner.

  Inside the main body case 25 of the vacuum cleaner body 13 is a cyclone separator 125 that is a dust collector as a dust collector that is detachably mounted in the dust chamber 34, and is downstream of the cyclone separator 125. A first ventilation air passage 126 that is a ventilation air passage communicating from the upper side to the intake port 83 of the electric blower 51 in the blower chamber 39 is formed.

  The cyclone separation device 125 has a substantially bottomed cylindrical dust collecting body 132 that divides the dust containing chamber 131 therein. The front end of the dust collecting body 132 is connected to the main body suction port 47. An air intake opening 133 that protrudes from the rear end and communicates with the dust chamber 131 is formed to protrude. Further, a second ventilation air passage 134 that is an outside air intake air passage communicating with the first ventilation air passage 126 is formed at the rear portion of the dust collecting portion main body 132 so as to protrude.

  A cylindrical cyclone separator 136 that separates dust by swirling the dust-containing air sucked from the intake opening 133 along the outer periphery is attached to the inside of the dust chamber 131. The cyclone separator 136 An opening 137 is formed on the outer periphery of the, and a primary filter 138 as a first dust separating means is attached to the opening 137. In addition, a secondary filter 139 as a second dust separation means is attached to the upper end of the dust storage chamber 131 (dust collector main body 132).

  The primary filter 138 separates dust in the dust-containing air from the air by filtering, for example.

  The secondary filter 139 functions as, for example, a final filter. That is, the secondary filter 139 can collect dust (fine dust) that could not be collected by the primary filter 138.

  The second ventilation air passage 134 communicates with the inside of the dust storage chamber 131 via a normally closed on / off valve 141 such as an electromagnetic valve as an opening / closing means. Further, the second ventilation air passage 134 is formed with an outside air opening 142 for taking outside air, here, for example, air in the dust collecting chamber 34 into the second ventilation air passage 134 at the lower portion. The second ventilation air passage 134 communicates with the first ventilation air passage 126 via the communication opening 144, and the electrostatic atomizer 53 is attached with the communication opening 144 closed.

  Here, in the electrostatic atomizer 53, the outer edge portion of the third case 88 is fitted into the communication opening 144 without a gap so that the heat radiating plate 98 is inserted into the first ventilation air passage 126, and the discharge unit U1 side is It arrange | positions so that it may be located in the 2nd ventilation air path 134. FIG.

  On the other hand, a part of the first ventilation air passage 126 may be formed, for example, inside the lid 55.

  Next, the operation of the second embodiment will be described.

  In the cleaning mode, for example, in a state in which power can be supplied from a commercial AC power source connected via a power cord (not shown) or a secondary battery built in the main body case 25, the control means 52 first prepares the on-off valve 141 as a preparation. Is kept closed.

  In this state, the control means 52 drives the electric blower 51 in the operator's desired operation mode input via the setting button 22, and supplies a predetermined current to the Peltier element 95 to cause the Peltier element 95 to be heated. Control. In addition, when the air sucked into the electric blower 51 passes through the heat sink 98 when passing through the first ventilation air passage 126, effective heat dissipation at the heat sink 98 is enabled. As a result, moisture contained in the air that has entered the case body 89 is condensed on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97 having water repellency.

  Then, the operator grips the grip portion 21, moves the floor brush 19 and the like on the surface to be cleaned, and sucks dust together with air.

  At this time, the dust-containing air is sucked into the main body case 25 from the main body suction port 47 after moving the tube portion 12 from the distal end side to the proximal end side. The dust-containing air first flows from the intake opening 133 into the dust storage chamber 131 inside the dust collector main body 132 along the inner peripheral surface of the dust collector main body 132, whereby the cyclone separator 136. And is separated into relatively large dust, that is, coarse dust and air by centrifugal force. For this reason, the separated coarse dust is dropped and accommodated in the dust chamber 131.

  The air that has passed through the primary filter 138 is further separated into relatively small dust, that is, fine dust and air, by passing through the secondary filter 139. For this reason, while fine dust is captured by the secondary filter 139, air that has passed through the secondary filter 139 is sucked into the electric blower 51 from the intake port 83 via the first communication air passage 126. Then, the exhaust gas flowing out from the exhaust port 84 of the electric blower 51 into the blower chamber 39 is discharged to the outside of the main body case 25 (the vacuum cleaner main body 13) through the main body exhaust port 48. The air flow is indicated by a solid line A3 in FIG.

  On the other hand, in the dust removal mode, when the operator operates the predetermined setting button 22 to finish the cleaning, the control means 52 first maintains the on-off valve 141 in the open state as a preparation.

  Thereafter, the control means 52 energizes the conductive sheet 94 of the electrostatic atomizer 53 (electrostatic atomizer 53 is on) and performs input control for driving the electric blower 51. The input of the electric blower 51 in this case is assumed to be lower than the maximum input given to the electric blower 51 in the cleaning mode, for example.

  Here, the electrostatic atomizer 53 immediately splits and scatters the invisible mist M of pico-sized or nano-sized (about 500 pm to 5,000 pm) by the same operation as the first embodiment. . The scattered mist M is released into the air in the second ventilation air passage 134 through the openings 101 and 102.

  Further, as the electric blower 51 is driven, the intake negative pressure sequentially acts on the first ventilation air passage 126, the dust chamber 131, the second ventilation air passage 134, and the outside air port 142, so that the outside air port 142 Outside air flows into the second ventilation air passage 134. As a result, as indicated by a broken line A4 in the figure, air is sucked into the outside air port 142, the second ventilation air passage 134, the dust containing chamber 131, and the first ventilation air passage 126, and is generated from the electrostatic atomizer 53. The mist M is scattered to every corner of the second ventilation air passage 134, the dust storage chamber 131, and the first ventilation air passage 126.

  As described above, since the fine mist M containing OH radicals generated by the electrostatic atomizer 53 is supplied to the intake air, the mist M is dust of the cyclone separator 125 located in the dust collection chamber 34. It acts on the dust collected in the storage chamber 131 and also acts on the dust collected in the filters 138 and 139 by passing through the filters 138 and 139 in the thickness direction. As a result, various bacteria are decomposed, that is, sterilized (sterilized) and deodorized. These sterilizing action and deodorizing action are also given to the filters 138 and 139 themselves.

  When the control means 52 determines that a predetermined time, for example, about 20 seconds to 30 seconds has elapsed since the start of the dust removal mode, the control means 52 supplies power to the conductive sheet 94 and the Peltier element 95 of the electrostatic atomizer 53 and the electric blower. Stop the power supply to each 51 and finish the dust removal mode.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, the electrostatic atomizer 53 of the first embodiment is arranged in the air passage in the dust removal mode, so that the first embodiment and the first embodiment are different from the first embodiment. Similar effects can be obtained.

  Further, the vacuum cleaner main body 13 can be simplified in the internal air passage configuration, can be manufactured at a low cost, and can be easily controlled by the control means 52, as compared with the case of the circulation type vacuum cleaner.

  Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the structure and effect | action similar to said each embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In the electrostatic atomizer 53 according to the third embodiment, an air cooling fan 146 is attached to the front end portion of the fin 98a of the heat sink 98 in each of the above embodiments.

  The air cooling fan 146 is electrically connected to a power source (not shown) or the like, and the drive is controlled by the control means 52, for example.

  The air cooling fan 146 forcibly sends air between the fins 98a of the heat sink 98 to assist heat dissipation at the heat sink 98, that is, heat dissipation at the heat dissipation side surface 95b of the Peltier element 95. More efficient temperature control. That is, the air can be cooled more efficiently and quickly on the heat absorbing side surface 95a of the Peltier element 95, and moisture can be condensed more efficiently and quickly on the surface 97a of the insulating sheet 97.

  In each of the above embodiments, the tip side of each water absorbing electrode 91 may be in close contact with the insulating sheet 97.

  Further, the heat absorption side of the Peltier element 95, the insulating sheet 97, and the water absorption part 117 of the water supply sheet 93 may not be arranged vertically as long as they have an angle with respect to the horizontal direction. Further, for example, in the case of the vacuum cleaner 11 in which the vacuum cleaner body 13 tilts or swings during use, at least in any state under use, the heat absorption side of the Peltier element 95, the insulating sheet 97 and As long as the water absorbing portion 117 of the water supply sheet 93 has an angle with respect to the horizontal direction, the same operational effects as those of the above embodiments can be obtained.

  Further, as the vacuum cleaner 11, for example, an upright type in which a floor brush 19 is connected to the lower part of the vacuum cleaner body 13, or an optional type such as a handy type can be used. The configuration is not limited.

  The electrostatic atomizer 53 can be used for any electric device other than the vacuum cleaner 11.

11 Vacuum cleaner
25 Main unit case
34 Dust collection chamber
39 Blower room
51 Electric blower
53 Electrostatic atomizer
91 Water-absorbing electrode as electrode
93 Water supply sheet as a water supply member
95 Peltier element as thermoelectric element
97 Insulation sheet as condensation material
117 Water absorption part

Claims (6)

A thermoelectric element having an endothermic side and a heat dissipating side;
A dew condensation member disposed over the heat absorption side of the thermoelectric element;
Power is supplied from the base end side and the front end side is disposed opposite to the dew condensation member, and moisture condensed on the dew condensation member cooled by heat absorption of the thermoelectric element is converted into a mist containing radicals by natural discharge from the front end side. An electrostatic atomizer comprising: an atomizing electrode. The electrostatic atomizer according to claim 1, wherein a tip side of the electrode is opposed to the dew condensation member via a predetermined gap. The electrode is a water absorbing electrode,
A water supply member comprising a water absorption portion disposed around a position of the dew condensation member facing the tip side of the water absorbent electrode, and carrying a part of moisture condensed on the dew condensation member to the base end side of the water absorption electrode; The electrostatic atomizer according to claim 1, wherein the electrostatic atomizer is provided. The heat absorption side of the thermoelectric element, the dew condensation member, and the water absorption part of the water supply member are arranged so as to have an angle with respect to the horizontal direction at least in any of the usage states. The electrostatic atomizer described. The electrostatic atomizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the dew condensation member is subjected to water repellent treatment on at least a surface facing the tip side of the electrode. A body case with a dust collection chamber and a fan chamber;
An electric blower in which the suction side communicates with the dust collection chamber of the main body case and is accommodated in the blower chamber; and
6. An electric vacuum cleaner comprising: the electrostatic atomizer according to any one of claims 1 to 5 that causes atomized water disposed in the main body case to act on dust in the dust collection chamber.

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