JP2014074571A - Humidifier and dehumidifier - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve the problem in which in a conventional humidifier, even when it is already in a state where water supply is necessary at the time of humidification operation start, water supply display is not performed until a predetermined period of time elapses from the start of a humidification operation.SOLUTION: A humidity adjustment device (a humidifier) includes: a humidification rotor for humidifying air; a water tray for storing water to be supplied to the humidification rotor; detection means for detecting the state where a water amount stored in the water tray is less than a predetermined amount; determination means for determining whether the humidifier is in a state where water supply is necessary or not based on a determination result of the detection means; and display means for displaying the state where the humidifier is in a state where water supply is necessary when the determination means determines that it is in a state where water supply is necessary. The determination means, when the state where the water amount stored in the water tray is less than the predetermined amount continues for a predetermined period of time before the start of the humidification operation, determines that the humidifier is in a state where water supply is necessary when the humidification operation starts.

Description

  The present invention relates to a humidifying device that performs a humidifying operation and a dehumidifying device that performs a dehumidifying operation.

  The humidifying device that performs the humidifying operation includes a humidifying means, a water storage tank that stores water supplied to the humidifying means, a water passage that supplies water from the water storage tank to the humidifying means, and a float type that detects the water level in the water passage. And a display means for displaying a water supply when the water level in the water passage is lowered (for example, see Patent Document 1). In this humidifier, when the water level in the water passage is lowered, the user can be prompted to supply water to the water storage tank.

  The dehumidifying device for performing the dehumidifying operation includes a dehumidifying means, a tank for storing the water removed by the dehumidifying means, a micro switch for detecting the full condition of the tank, and a display means for displaying that the tank is full. (For example, see paragraphs 0028 and 0030 of Patent Document 2). In this dehumidifier, the user can be prompted to drain the water in the tank when the tank is full.

  By the way, in the device capable of displaying the water supply, such as the above-mentioned humidifying device, water supply is necessary when the water supply state continues for a predetermined time after the humidification operation is started in order to prevent erroneous display due to water level hunting. In general, it is determined that the water supply is present and the water supply is displayed.

  Similarly, in a device capable of displaying drainage, such as the above dehumidifying device, in order to prevent erroneous display due to hunting of the water level, when the full water condition continues for a predetermined time after the dehumidifying operation is started. In general, it is determined that the drainage is necessary and the drainage is displayed.

JP 2004-108599 A JP 2004-317003 A

  However, when the water supply state is continued for a predetermined time after the humidification operation is started, when the water supply display is performed, even when the water supply is already necessary at the start of the humidification operation, the humidification operation is started. The water supply display is not performed until the predetermined time has elapsed. Also, when the drainage display is performed when the full water condition continues for a predetermined time after the dehumidifying operation is started, even if the drainage is already necessary at the start of the dehumidifying operation, the dehumidifying operation is started. The drainage display is not performed until the predetermined time has elapsed. Therefore, there is a problem that if the user who has performed the operation of starting the humidifying operation or the dehumidifying operation leaves the apparatus before the predetermined time has elapsed, the user is not aware of the water supply display or the drainage display.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a humidifying device capable of displaying that the water supply is necessary at the same time as the start of the humidifying operation, and a dehumidifying device capable of displaying that the water is in a necessary state simultaneously with the start of the dehumidifying operation.

  The humidifying device according to the first aspect of the present invention is that a humidifying member that humidifies air, a water storage portion that stores water supplied to the humidifying member, and an amount of water stored in the water storage portion is less than a predetermined amount. The detection means for detecting, the determination means for determining whether or not the water supply is required based on the determination result of the detection means, and the water supply required state when it is determined by the determination means that the water supply is required Display means for displaying that, when the state in which the amount of water is less than a predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before the start of the humidification operation, when the humidification operation is started, the determination means It is determined that it exists.

  In this humidifier, since it is determined that the water supply is required when the state where the amount of water stored in the water storage unit is less than the predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before the humidification operation, water supply is required simultaneously with the start of the humidification operation. The status can be displayed.

  The humidifying device according to the second invention is characterized in that, in the humidifying device according to the first invention, the determination means always performs the determination while the power source is driven.

  In this humidifier, since it is always determined whether the water supply is necessary or not while the power is turned on, it can be easily displayed that the water supply is necessary simultaneously with the start of the humidification operation.

  In the humidifying device according to the third aspect of the present invention, the humidifying device according to the first or second aspect of the present invention comprises storage means for storing the determination result of the determination means when the power supply driving is stopped, When the power supply driving is started, if the storage means stores the fact that the water supply is required, the fact that the water supply is required is displayed.

  Since this humidifier is provided with storage means for storing the determination result when the power is stopped, when the water supply is required when the power is stopped, it can be displayed that the water supply is required simultaneously with the next power ON.

  In the humidifying device according to the fourth invention, in the humidifying device according to any one of the first to third inventions, an air cleaning operation that purifies the air without humidifying the air is possible, and the determination means includes the When the state where the amount of water is less than the predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before switching from the air cleaning operation to the humidification operation, it is determined that the water supply is required when switching to the humidification operation.

  In this humidifier, it is possible to display that the water supply is necessary at the same time as switching from the air cleaning operation to the humidification operation.

  A dehumidifying device according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is a dehumidifying member that removes moisture contained in air, a water reservoir that stores water removed by the dehumidifying member, and a predetermined amount of water stored in the water reservoir. When it is determined by the determination means that it is above, the determination means that determines whether or not the drainage is necessary based on the determination result of the detection means, and the determination means that the drainage is necessary Display means for indicating that the drainage is necessary, and the determination means is configured to start the dehumidifying operation when the state in which the amount of water is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before starting the dehumidifying operation. It is characterized in that it is determined that the wastewater is necessary.

  In this dehumidifying device, it is determined that the drainage is necessary when the amount of water stored in the water storage unit is greater than or equal to the predetermined amount for a predetermined time before the dehumidifying operation. The status can be displayed.

  In the dehumidifying apparatus according to the sixth invention, in the dehumidifying apparatus according to the fifth invention, the determination means always performs the determination while the power source is driven.

  In this dehumidifying apparatus, since it is always determined whether or not the drainage is necessary while the power is turned on, it can be easily displayed that the drainage is necessary simultaneously with the start of the dehumidifying operation.

  In the dehumidifying device according to the seventh invention, in the dehumidifying device according to the fifth or sixth invention, the dehumidifying device comprises storage means for storing the determination result of the determining means when power supply driving is stopped, When power supply driving is started, if the storage means stores the state that the drainage is necessary, the fact that the drainage is necessary is displayed.

  Since the dehumidifying device is provided with a storage unit for storing the determination result when the power is stopped, when the drainage is necessary when the power is stopped, it can be displayed that the drainage is necessary simultaneously with the next power-on.

  In the dehumidifying device according to the eighth invention, in the dehumidifying device according to any of the fifth to seventh inventions, an air cleaning operation for purifying the air without dehumidifying the air is possible, and the determining means includes the When the state in which the amount of water is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before switching from the air cleaning operation to the dehumidifying operation, it is determined that the drainage is necessary when switching to the dehumidifying operation.

  In this dehumidifying device, it is possible to display that drainage is necessary at the same time as switching from the air cleaning operation to the dehumidifying operation.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

  In the first invention, since it is determined that the water supply is necessary when the state in which the amount of water stored in the water storage unit is less than the predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before the humidification operation, You can display that you are in the necessary state.

  In the second invention, since it is always determined whether the water supply is necessary or not while the power is turned on, it can be easily displayed that the water supply is necessary simultaneously with the start of the humidification operation.

  In the third aspect of the invention, since the storage means for storing the determination result when the power is stopped is provided, when the water supply is required when the power is stopped, it can be displayed that the water supply is required simultaneously with the next power ON.

  In 4th invention, it can display that it is in a water supply required state simultaneously with switching from an air cleaning operation to a humidification operation.

  In the fifth aspect of the invention, since it is determined that the drainage is necessary when the state in which the amount of water stored in the water storage unit is greater than or equal to the predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before the dehumidifying operation, the drainage is performed simultaneously with the start of the dehumidifying operation. You can display that you are in the necessary state.

  In the sixth aspect of the invention, the determination as to whether or not the drainage is necessary is always performed while the power is turned on. Therefore, it is possible to easily display that the drainage is necessary at the same time as the dehumidifying operation is started.

  In the seventh invention, since the storage means for storing the determination result at the time of power supply stop is provided, when the drainage is required at the time of power supply stop, it is possible to display that the drainage is required at the same time as the next power-on.

  In the eighth aspect of the invention, it can be displayed that the drainage is necessary at the same time as switching from the air cleaning operation to the dehumidifying operation.

It is a perspective view of the humidity adjustment apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view of a dehumidification unit and a humidification unit. It is the perspective view which looked at the dehumidification unit from the front side. It is the perspective view which looked at the dehumidification unit from the back side. It is the perspective view which looked at the humidification unit from the front side. It is the perspective view which looked at the humidification unit from the back side. It is the schematic of a water tray and a water level sensor. It is the schematic of a display selection panel. It is a functional block diagram of the humidity control apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the humidity control apparatus shown in FIG. It is a timing chart which shows operation | movement at the time of a humidification driving | operation. It is a timing chart which shows operation at the time of dehumidification operation being started. It is a timing chart which shows operation | movement at the time of a humidification driving | operation. It is a timing chart which shows operation | movement of the conventional humidifier.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  The humidity adjusting device 1 (humidifying device, dehumidifying device) according to the embodiment of the present invention has a dehumidifying function, a humidifying function, and an air cleaning function, and is used as a dehumidifying device during a dehumidifying operation and as a humidifying device during a humidifying operation. As an air purifier (hereinafter referred to as an air purifying operation), it functions as an air purifier. The humidity adjusting device 1 can be driven not only by a single function but also by combining a plurality of functions at the same time. For example, a combination of an air cleaning function and a dehumidifying function, a combination of an air cleaning function and a humidifying function, and a combination of a dehumidifying function and a humidifying function.

[Configuration of Humidity Adjustment Device 1]
As shown in FIG. 1, the humidity adjusting device 1 includes a main body casing 10, a first fan 2, a dehumidifying unit 3, a humidifying unit 4, an air cleaning unit 5, a water level sensor 6 (detecting means), and a display selection panel 7 (displaying means). ), And a control device 8 or the like. The first fan 2, the dehumidifying unit 3, the humidifying unit 4, the air cleaning unit 5, the water level sensor 6, and the control device 8 (see FIG. 7) are housed inside the main body casing 10. In the following description, the upstream side of the arrow A shown in FIG. 1 is defined as the front side, and the downstream side of the arrow A is defined as the back side.

  The first fan 2 is located on the back side inside the main body casing 10. As the first fan 2 rotates, an air flow path A is formed. First, air sucked from the front side passes through the air cleaning unit 5 and is purified. The air purified by the air cleaning unit 5 passes through the dehumidifying unit 3 and the humidifying unit 4 in this order and is blown out from the humidity adjusting device 1.

  The air cleaning unit 5 is located on the front side inside the main body casing 10. The air cleaning unit 5 includes a prefilter, a plasma ionization unit, a dust collection filter, a deodorizing filter, a streamer discharge unit, and the like (all not shown). The prefilter removes relatively large dust in the air. The plasma ionization unit charges dust or the like contained in the air with a positive charge. The dust collection filter adsorbs dust charged to a positive charge. A deodorizing filter containing activated carbon or the like decomposes or adsorbs formaldehyde or odor components. The streamer discharge unit generates active species by streamer discharge. Air containing active species inactivates or extinguishes viruses, fungi, bacteria, and the like.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the dehumidifying unit 3 and the humidifying unit 4. The dehumidifying unit 3 is located on the near side, and the humidifying unit 4 is located on the far side. In FIG. 1, the water tray 40, the humidification rotor 41, and the water wheel 42 which are the components of the humidification unit 4 are removed from the humidity control apparatus 1, but are arrange | positioned in the humidity control apparatus 1 in an assembly state.

<Dehumidification unit 3>
The dehumidifying unit 3 is disposed behind the air cleaning unit 5, and the air that has passed through the air cleaning unit 5 flows in. As shown in FIG. 3, the dehumidifying unit 3 includes a dehumidifying rotor 31 (dehumidifying member), a heater 32, a second fan 33, a blower pipe 34, and a heat exchanger 35.

  The dehumidification rotor 31 (dehumidification member) is a disk-shaped honeycomb structure, and is composed of a porous body. For this reason, the dehumidification rotor 31 has high hygroscopicity.

  The heater 32 is disposed to face a part on the back side of the dehumidifying rotor 31. The heater 32 has a substantially fan shape and is provided at a position covering about one-sixth of the back side of the dehumidifying rotor 31.

  The second fan 33 is attached so as to protrude from the upper side of the dehumidification rotor 31 to the downstream side of the air flow path A. The heater 32 and the second fan 33 are communicated with each other by a first air duct 34a so that air can flow. The air generated by the driving of the second fan 33 reaches the heater 32 through the first blower pipe 34a and is heated there to become high-temperature air.

  The air duct 34 has a first air duct 34a, a second air duct 34b, a third air duct 34c, and a fourth air duct 34d. The high-temperature air heated by the heater 32 flows from the back side of the dehumidification rotor 31 through the dehumidification rotor 31 to the front side of the dehumidification rotor 31. The region of the dehumidifying rotor 31 through which the high-temperature air passes is heated by the high-temperature air and releases moisture to the high-temperature air.

  The high-temperature air that has passed through the dehumidifying rotor 31 becomes high-temperature and high-humidity air and enters the second blower pipe 34b. The 2nd ventilation pipe 34b is arrange | positioned so that the front side of the dehumidification rotor 31 may be collected so that the high temperature, high humidity air which passed the dehumidification rotor 31 can be collect | recovered. The second blower pipe 34b has a fan shape and covers about one-sixth of the side surface.

  The 3rd ventilation pipe 34c flows the high temperature, high humidity air which flows from the 2nd ventilation pipe 34b along the outer periphery of the radial direction outer side of the dehumidification rotor 31. FIG. The third blower pipe 34c is provided with a plurality of long holes 35a penetrating in the same direction as the air flow path A, and the air flowing through the air flow path A passes through the long holes 35a. Since the high-temperature and high-humidity air flowing through the third blower pipe 34c flows while contacting the wall surface of the long hole 35a, the air passing through the long hole 35a takes away heat from the high-temperature and high-humidity air. For this reason, the high-temperature and high-humidity air that has contacted the wall surface of the long hole 35a is cooled, and the wall surface of the long hole 35a is condensed. The condensed water passes through a predetermined outlet and is stored in a water tray 40 (water storage unit) of the humidifying unit 4 described later.

  The fourth air duct 34d communicates the third air duct 34c and the second fan 33. The high-temperature and high-humidity air flowing through the third blower pipe 34c is sucked into the second fan 33 through the fourth blower pipe 34d after contacting the wall surfaces of the plurality of long holes 35a and depriving the heat and moisture.

  The long holes 35 a are provided so as to surround the radially outer side of the dehumidifying rotor 31, and the plurality of long holes 35 a form the heat exchanger 35.

  Further, the dehumidifying unit 3 has a drive motor 36 as shown in FIG. The drive motor 36 has a pinion gear 361, and a driven gear 311 that meshes with the pinion gear 361 is provided on the outer periphery of the dehumidification rotor 31. While the drive motor 36 is being driven, the dehumidifying rotor 31 rotates, contacts the air passing through the air flow path A and adsorbs moisture, releases the moisture at a position facing the heater 32, and then flows again. Contact air passing through path A. For this reason, the dehumidification rotor 31 can repeat adsorption | suction and discharge | release of a water | moisture content.

<Humidification unit 4>
The humidifying unit 4 is disposed between the dehumidifying unit 3 and the first fan 2, and the air that has passed through the dehumidifying unit 3 flows in. As shown in FIG. 5, the humidification unit 4 includes a water tray 40 (water storage unit), a humidification rotor 41 (humidification member), a water wheel 42, and a drive unit 43.

  The water tray 40 (water storage unit) stores water supplied to the humidification rotor 41 and is detachably stored in the main body casing 10. When the water in the water tray 40 is insufficient, the user draws the water tray 40 from the outlet of the main body casing 10 and supplies water. In the humidity adjusting device 1, the water removed from the air by the dehumidifying unit 3 is stored in the water tray 40 to reduce the number of times of water supply.

  The humidification rotor 41 (humidification member) is formed into a disk shape with a non-woven fabric and rotates to supply water supplied from the water tray 40 to the air to humidify the air. The humidification rotor 41 has a first gear 411 on the outer periphery, and the first gear 411 is rotated by the drive unit 43. Since the humidification rotor 41 is disposed above the water level when the water tray 40 is full, it is not in direct contact with the water in the water tray 40.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the water wheel 42 is rotatably supported by a bearing 40 a formed on the water tray 40, and draws water in the water tray 40 and discharges it toward the humidification rotor 41. Specifically, a plurality of concave portions 421a having trapezoidal openings are formed on the outer peripheral portion of the water turbine 42, and when the concave portions 421a are submerged by the rotation of the water turbine 42, water is stored in the openings of the concave portions 421a. Rises, the water accumulated in the opening of the recess 421a flows toward the humidification rotor 41. The water wheel 42 has a second gear 423 and meshes with the first gear 411 of the humidification rotor 41. The water wheel 42 rotates as the humidification rotor 41 rotates.

  Here, when the determination unit 72 described later determines that the water supply is necessary, the control device 8 does not drive the drive unit 43. Therefore, when the determination part 72 determines with the water supply required state, the humidification rotor 41 and the water wheel 42 are not driven.

<Water level sensor 6>
In the water tray 40, a water level sensor 6 (detection means) for detecting the water surface position in the water tray 40 is provided. As shown in FIG. 7, the water level sensor 6 is a float type water level sensor, and includes a main body 50 a, a stem 50 b, a float 50 c, a lower limit switch 51, and an upper limit switch 52. The main body 50 a is attached to the upper part of the water tray 40. The stem 50b is suspended from the lower surface of the main body 50a. The float 50c is attached so that the stem 50b can slide in the vertical direction. The upper and lower limit switches 51 and 52 generate a detection signal when the float 50c reaches a predetermined position.

  The float 50c has a donut shape having a hollow that fits into the columnar stem 50b, and has a specific gravity smaller than that of water. For this reason, the float 50c moves up and down along the stem 50b according to the water level in the water tray 40. Further, the float 50c includes a magnetic body therein, and is configured to operate the limit switches at the positions of the upper and lower limit switches 51 and 52 provided in the stem 50b.

  The lower limit switch 51 is arranged at a position where water supply to the water tray 40 is necessary when the humidifying operation is performed, that is, at a water supply position P1 where the water wheel 42 cannot pump water from the water tray 40. . On the other hand, the upper limit switch 52 is disposed at a position where water must be discharged from the water tray 40 when the dehumidifying operation is performed, that is, at the full water position P2.

  Here, the lower limit switch 51 arranged at the water supply position P1 outputs an OFF signal when the position of the float 50c is below the water supply position P1. The lower limit switch 51 outputs an ON signal when the position of the float 50c is equal to or higher than the water supply position P1.

  On the other hand, the upper limit switch 52 disposed at the full water position P2 outputs an ON signal when the position of the float 50c is below the full water position P2. Further, the upper limit switch 52 outputs an OFF signal when the position of the float 50c is equal to or higher than the full water position P2. The ON signal and the OFF signal output from the limit switch are sent to the control device 8.

<Display selection panel 7>
A display selection panel 7 (display means) is provided on the upper surface of the main body 10. As shown in FIG. 8, the display selection panel 7 is provided with an operation on / off switch 62, an operation changeover switch 63, a water supply display lamp 64, a full water (drainage) display lamp 65, and the like. The main body casing 10 is provided with a power switch (not shown).

  The power switch selects driving or stopping of the power supply of the humidity adjusting device 1. The operation on / off switch 62 selects the operation on / off of the humidity adjusting device 1. When the operation on / off switch 62 is pressed while the power is being driven and the operation is cut off, that is, when the operation on / off switch 62 is turned on, the emptying operation is started. Here, the air cleaning operation is an operation in which the first fan 2 is driven and the dehumidification rotor 31 and the humidification rotor 41 are not driven in the humidification cut mode and the dehumidification cut mode. That is, the air is purified without humidifying and dehumidifying the air.

  The operation changeover switch 63 can select switching between dehumidifying operation, humidifying operation, and emptying operation. When the dehumidifying operation is selected, the dehumidifying operation is started by changing to the dehumidifying operation mode. When the humidification operation is selected, the humidification operation mode is started by changing to the humidification mode. Further, when the air purifying operation is selected from the dehumidifying operation and the humidifying operation, the air purifying operation is started by changing to the humidifying off mode and the dehumidifying off mode.

  Here, the humidification operation refers to an operation in a humidification mode. The operation in the humidification mode is usually an operation in which the first fan 2 and the humidification rotor 41 are driven and the dehumidification rotor 31 is not driven. That is, in the humidifying operation, the air is humidified and the air is purified.

  However, when the determination unit 72 (determination means) described later determines that the water supply is required, the control device 8 does not drive the humidification rotor 41, so that the operation in the humidification mode only drives the first fan 2. The operation is such that the dehumidifying rotor 31 and the humidifying rotor 41 are not driven.

  The dehumidifying operation refers to an operation that is in the dehumidifying mode. The operation in the dehumidification mode is usually an operation in which the first fan 2 and the dehumidification rotor 31 are driven (the heater 32 and the second fan 33 are simultaneously driven) and the humidification rotor 41 is not driven. That is, in the dehumidifying operation, the air is dehumidified and the air is purified.

  However, when the determination unit 72 described later determines that the drainage is necessary, the control device 8 does not drive the dehumidification rotor 31, so that the operation in the dehumidification mode only drives the first fan 2, and the dehumidification rotor 31 is driven. And it becomes the driving | operation which does not drive the humidification rotor 41. FIG.

  The water supply display lamp 64 is turned on when the determination unit 72 described later determines that the water supply is required. The water supply indicator lamp 64 is turned off when water supply is not required.

  The full water display lamp 65 is turned on when the determination unit 72 described later determines that the drainage is necessary. The full water display lamp 65 is turned off when the drainage is not necessary.

<Control device 8>
FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of the humidity adjusting apparatus 1 shown in FIG. The control device 8 includes a plurality of hardware such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a RAM (Random Access Memory). The ROM stores a control program for controlling the operation of the control device 8. The control device 8 includes a water amount detection unit 71 (detection unit), a determination unit 72 (determination unit), a display unit 73 (display unit), and a storage unit 74 (storage unit).

  The water amount detection unit 71 (detection means) reads the ON / OFF signal of the lower limit switch 51, and whether the water amount Q stored in the water tray 40 is less than the water amount Q1 when the water surface position is the water supply position P1. Determine whether or not. Specifically, if the signal output from the lower limit switch 51 is ON, it is determined that the water amount Q is equal to or greater than the water amount Q1, and if the signal output from the lower limit switch 51 is OFF, the water amount Q is It is determined that the amount of water is less than Q1.

  Further, the water amount detection unit 71 reads the ON / OFF signal of the upper limit switch 52 and determines whether or not the water amount Q stored in the water tray 40 is equal to or greater than the water amount Q2 when the water surface position is the full water position P2. Determine. Specifically, if the signal output from the upper limit switch 52 is ON, it is determined that the water amount Q is less than the water amount Q2, and if the signal output from the upper limit switch 52 is an OFF signal, the water amount Q Is determined to be greater than or equal to the amount of water Q2.

  The determination unit 72 (determination means) determines whether or not water supply to the water tray 40 is necessary (water supply necessary state) based on the determination result of the water amount detection unit 71, and whether the water in the water tray 40 is discharged. It is determined whether or not it is a necessary state (necessary drainage state). The determination unit 72 starts determination at the same time when the power source of the humidity adjusting device 1 is driven, and always performs determination while the power source of the humidity adjusting device 1 is driven.

  Specifically, the determination unit 72 performs humidification when the OFF signal of the lower limit switch 51 (a state in which the water amount Q is less than the water amount Q1) continues for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds) before the humidification operation starts. When the operation is started, it is determined that the water supply is necessary. Further, when the OFF signal of the upper limit switch 52 (the state where the water amount Q is equal to or greater than the water amount Q2) continues for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds) before the dehumidifying operation starts, drainage is required when the dehumidifying operation is started. It is determined that it is in a state.

  Here, the predetermined time before the start of the humidifying operation refers to a predetermined time immediately before the start of the humidifying operation. More precisely, it refers to a predetermined time in the past going back from the time when the humidifying operation was started. The predetermined time before the start of the dehumidifying operation refers to a predetermined time immediately before the start of the dehumidifying operation. More precisely, it refers to a predetermined time in the past going back from the time when the dehumidifying operation was started.

  In addition, after the humidifying operation is started, the determination unit 72 is in a case where the OFF signal of the lower limit switch 51 (a state where the water amount Q is less than the water amount Q1) continues for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds). It is determined that water supply is necessary. In addition, after the dehumidifying operation is started, if the OFF signal of the upper limit switch 52 (the state where the water amount Q is equal to or greater than the water amount Q2) continues for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds), the drainage is necessary. judge.

  The display unit 73 (display unit) turns on the water supply display lamp 64 when the determination unit 72 determines that the water supply is required. In addition, the display unit 73 lights the full water display lamp 65 when the determination unit 72 determines that the drainage is necessary.

  The storage unit 74 (storage unit) stores the determination result of the determination unit 72 when the power is turned off (stopped), for example, when the power switch is turned off while the power is on. For example, if the determination unit 72 determines that the water supply is required when the power is turned off, the fact that the water supply is required is stored. If the determination unit 72 determines that the drainage is necessary when the power is turned off, the fact that the drainage is necessary is stored. If the determination unit 72 determines that the water supply is not required or the drainage is not required when the power is turned off, it is stored that the water supply is not required or the drainage is not required.

<Flow>
Next, the operation (flow) of the humidity adjusting apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 10 (flowchart).

  When starting, the power is turned off (stopped). First, it is determined whether or not the power is on (drive) (S1). When the power is ON (S1: Yes), the determination unit 72 starts determining whether or not the water supply is necessary and whether or not the drain is necessary (S2). On the other hand, if the power is off (S1: No), the system waits until the power is turned on.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the storage unit 74 stores that the water supply is required when the power supply was stopped last time (S3). If it is stored that the water supply is required (S3: Yes), the display unit 73 turns on the water supply display lamp 64 to display that the water supply is required (S10). On the other hand, if it is stored that the water supply is not required (S3: No), it is determined whether or not the storage unit 74 stores that the drainage is required when the power is stopped last time (S4). And when it has memorize | stored that it is a drainage required state (S4: Yes), the display part 73 lights the full water display lamp 65, and displays that it is a drainage required state (S14). On the other hand, when it is memorized that it is not in the drainage required state (S4: No), it is determined whether or not the operation on / off switch 62 is turned on (S5). When the operation on / off switch 62 is turned on (S5: Yes), the emptying operation is started (S6). When the operation on / off switch 62 is OFF (S5: No), it waits until the operation on / off switch 62 is turned ON.

  In step S7, it is determined whether the humidifying operation has been started. When the humidification operation is started (S7: Yes), the humidification operation is performed by determining whether or not the state in which the water amount Q is less than the water amount Q1 is continued for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds) before the humidification operation is started. It is determined whether water supply is required at the start (S8). If the water supply is required (S8: Yes), the water turbine 42 is kept stopped without driving the drive unit 43 of the humidification unit 4 (S9), and the water supply indicator lamp 64 is turned on to supply water. Is displayed (S10). On the other hand, when the water supply is not necessary at the start of the humidification operation (S8: No), the drive unit 43 of the humidification unit 4 is driven to drive the water wheel 42 (S11).

  In step S7, when the humidification operation is not started (S7: No), it is determined whether or not the dehumidification operation is started (S12). When the dehumidifying operation is started (S12: Yes), the dehumidifying operation is determined by determining whether or not the state in which the water amount Q is equal to or higher than the water amount Q2 is continued for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds) before the dehumidifying operation is started. It is determined whether or not drainage is required at the start (S13). When the drainage is required (S13: Yes), the full water display lamp 65 is turned on to indicate that the drainage is required (S14). On the other hand, when the drainage is not required at the start of the dehumidifying operation (S13: No), the flow ends.

  Next, the operation (flow) of the humidity adjusting apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 13 (timing charts).

  In FIG. 11, it is assumed that the humidity adjusting device 1 is in a state where water supply is necessary before the power is turned on (t1). However, the memory | storage part 74 shall not memorize | store the water supply required state at the time of a power supply stop last time.

  In FIG. 11, when the power is turned on, determination by the determination unit 72 is started (t1). After t1, when the operation on / off switch 62 is operated and the emptying operation is selected (ON), the first fan 2 is driven (ON) and the emptying operation is started (t2). When the humidifying operation is selected (ON) after t2, the humidifying operation is started (t3). At the start of the humidification operation (t3), the state in which the water amount Q is less than the water amount Q1 continues for a predetermined time (t4 to t3) before the start of the humidification operation, so that the determination unit 72 is in a state where water supply is necessary. At the same time, the display unit 73 lights the water supply display lamp 64 (t3). As a result, it is displayed that the water supply is required simultaneously with the start of the humidifying operation. In this case, the control device 8 continues the drive stop (OFF) state of the water turbine 42 without driving the drive unit 43 of the humidifying unit 4.

  In FIG. 12, it is assumed that the humidity adjusting device 1 has been in a state of requiring drainage before the power is turned on (t1). However, the memory | storage part 74 shall not memorize | store that it is a drainage required state at the time of a power supply stop last time.

  In FIG. 12, when the power is turned on, determination by the determination unit 72 is started (t1). After t1, when the operation on / off switch 62 is operated and the emptying operation is selected (ON), the first fan 2 is driven (ON) and the emptying operation is started (t2). When the dehumidifying operation is selected (ON) after t2, the dehumidifying operation is started (t3). At the start of the dehumidifying operation (t3), the state in which the water amount Q is equal to or greater than the water amount Q2 is continued for a predetermined time (t4 to t3) before the dehumidifying operation is started. At the same time, the display unit 73 lights the full water display lamp 65 (t3). As a result, it is displayed that drainage is necessary at the same time as the dehumidifying operation is started.

  In FIG. 13, it is assumed that the storage unit 74 stores the fact that the water supply is required when the power supply is stopped last time.

  In FIG. 13, when the power is turned on, the water supply display lamp 64 is turned on based on the information that the display unit 73 is in the water supply necessary state stored in the storage unit 74 (t1). As a result, it is displayed that the water supply is required at the same time as the power is turned on.

<Comparative example>
Although the present embodiment has been described above, the operation of the humidity / humidity control apparatus according to the related art will be described for comparison with the present embodiment.

  The determination part of the humidity control apparatus concerning a prior art starts determination simultaneously with humidification operation or dehumidification operation being started. Then, after the humidification operation is started, when the state where the water amount Q is less than the water amount Q1 continues for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds), it is determined that the water supply is necessary. In addition, after the dehumidifying operation is started, when the state in which the water amount Q is equal to or greater than the water amount Q2 continues for a predetermined time (for example, 20 seconds), it is determined that the drainage is necessary. Further, the humidity adjusting device of the prior art does not have a control unit corresponding to the storage unit 74 of the present embodiment.

  Next, the operation of the humidity control apparatus according to the prior art will be specifically described with reference to FIG. 14 (timing chart). In FIG. 14, it is assumed that the humidity adjusting device 1 is in a state where water supply is necessary before the power is turned on (t11).

  In FIG. 14, first, the power is turned on (t11). When the operation on / off switch is operated and the air cleaning operation is selected (ON), the first fan is driven (ON) and the air cleaning operation is started (t12). After that, when the humidifying operation is selected (ON) at t13, the driving unit of the humidifying unit is driven to drive (ON) the water wheel, and the determination by the determining unit of the humidity control apparatus according to the related art is started. . Then, when the state where the water amount Q is less than the water amount Q1 continues for a predetermined time (t13 to t14), the determination unit determines that the water supply is necessary, and the display unit lights the water supply display lamp (t14). At the same time, the driving of the water turbine is stopped (t14).

  Therefore, in the humidity control apparatus according to the conventional technique, even when the water supply is already required at the start of the humidification operation, the water supply display lamp does not light until a predetermined time has elapsed after the humidification operation is started. That is, in FIG. 14, a blank is generated from t13 to t14. As a result, if the user who has started the humidifying operation is away from the humidity adjusting device during t13 to t14, the user may not notice the water supply display.

  Moreover, in the humidity control apparatus according to the conventional technique, the water turbine is driven until the predetermined time elapses after the humidification operation is started, even though the water supply is necessary, and the water turbine is idled.

[Features of Humidity Adjustment Device 1 of the Present Embodiment]
The humidity adjusting apparatus 1 of the present embodiment has the following characteristics.

  In this humidity adjusting device 1 (humidifying device), when the state where the amount Q of water stored in the water tray 40 is less than the amount Q1 continues for a predetermined time before the humidifying operation, it is determined that the water supply is necessary. Therefore, it can be displayed that the water supply is necessary at the same time when the humidification operation is started. As a result, the water supply display is not performed after the user who has performed the operation of starting the humidification operation has left, and the user can easily notice the water supply display.

  Further, in this humidity adjusting device 1 (humidifying device), since it is determined that the water supply is necessary at the same time as the humidification operation is started, a predetermined time has passed since the humidification operation was started even though the water supply was necessary. Until then, the water turbine 42 is not driven. As a result, idling of the water wheel 42 (rotation of the water wheel 42 when there is no water in the water tray 40) can be prevented, and wear of the water wheel 42 can be suppressed.

  Further, in this humidity adjusting device 1 (humidifying device), since it is always determined whether the water supply is necessary or not while the power is on, it is easy to be in the water supply necessary state simultaneously with the start of the humidification operation. Can be displayed.

  Further, since the humidity adjusting device 1 (humidifying device) is provided with a storage unit 74 (storage means) that stores a determination result at the time of power supply stop, if the water supply is required at the time of power supply stop, the next power ON At the same time, it can be displayed that water supply is required.

  Moreover, in this humidity adjustment apparatus 1 (humidification apparatus), when the state where the amount of water Q stored in the water tray 40 is less than the amount of water Q1 continues for a predetermined time before switching from the air cleaning operation to the humidification operation, Since it is determined that the water supply is necessary, it is possible to display that the water supply is necessary at the same time when the air cleaning operation is switched to the humidification operation.

  Moreover, in this humidity adjustment apparatus 1 (dehumidification apparatus), when the state where the amount of water Q stored in the water tray 40 is equal to or greater than the amount of water Q2 continues for a predetermined time before the dehumidification operation, it is determined that the drainage is necessary. Therefore, it can be displayed that drainage is necessary at the same time as the dehumidifying operation is started. As a result, the drainage display is not performed after the user who has performed the operation of starting the dehumidifying operation leaves, and the user can easily notice the drainage display.

  Further, in this humidity adjusting device 1 (dehumidifying device), the determination as to whether or not the drainage is necessary is always performed while the power is on, so that it is easy to be in the drainage necessary state simultaneously with the start of the dehumidifying operation. Can be displayed.

  In addition, since the humidity adjusting device 1 (dehumidifying device) is provided with a storage unit 74 (storage means) that stores the determination result when the power is stopped, if the drainage is required when the power is stopped, the next power ON At the same time, it can be displayed that drainage is necessary.

  Further, in this humidity adjusting device 1 (dehumidifying device), when the state in which the amount of water Q stored in the water tray 40 is equal to or greater than the amount of water Q2 continues for a predetermined time before switching from the air cleaning operation to the dehumidifying operation, Since it is determined that the drainage is necessary, it is possible to display that the drainage is necessary at the same time that the air cleaning operation is switched to the dehumidification operation.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, it should be thought that the specific structure of this invention is not limited to the said embodiment. The scope of the present invention is shown not only by the description of the above-described embodiment but also by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes meanings equivalent to the scope of claims for patent and all modifications within the scope.

[Modification]
In the present embodiment, the determination by the determination unit 72 is always performed while the power source is driven. However, the determination by the determination unit may be performed only for a predetermined time before the start of the humidification operation or the dehumidification operation. .

  Further, in the present embodiment, the storage unit 74 that stores the determination result of the determination unit 72 when power supply driving is stopped is provided, but the storage unit 74 may not be provided.

  In the present embodiment, the humidity adjustment device 1 can perform an air cleaning operation that purifies air without humidifying the air, and the determination by the determination unit 72 when switching from the air cleaning operation to the humidifying operation or the dehumidifying operation. It was decided to do. However, the humidity adjusting device 1 cannot perform an air cleaning operation that purifies the air without humidifying the air, and performs a humidifying operation (an operation that purifies the air and humidifies the air) or a dehumidifying operation (an air that purifies the air and purifies the air). The determination by the determination unit 72 may be performed at the start, or when the humidification operation is switched to the dehumidification operation, or when the dehumidification operation is switched to the humidification operation. A determination may be made.

  In the present embodiment, the humidity adjusting device 1 is a device that can perform any of the dehumidifying operation, the humidifying operation, and the air cleaning operation, but may be a device that cannot perform the air cleaning operation. Moreover, the apparatus (simple humidifier or dehumidifier) which can be operated only in any one of a dehumidification driving | operation and a humidification driving | operation may be sufficient.

  Further, the humidifying operation of the present embodiment refers to an operation of purifying air and humidifying the air, but the humidifying operation may be an operation of humidifying air without purifying the air. In addition, the dehumidifying operation of the present embodiment refers to an operation of purifying air to dehumidify air, but the dehumidifying operation may be an operation of dehumidifying air without purifying air.

  In the present embodiment, the water tray 40 serves as both the water tray of the humidifier and the water tray of the dehumidifier. However, the water tray of the humidifier and the water tray of the dehumidifier are separate, and each has a water level sensor. May be provided.

  If this invention is utilized, it can display that it is a water supply required state simultaneously with the start of a humidification driving | operation. In addition, it is possible to display that the drainage is necessary at the same time when the dehumidifying operation is started.

1 Humidity adjustment device (humidifier, dehumidifier)
6 Water level sensor (detection means)
7 Display selection panel (display means)
31 Dehumidification rotor (dehumidification member)
40 Water tray (water storage part)
41 Humidification rotor (humidification member)
71 Water quantity detection part (detection means)
72 determination unit (determination means)
73 Display section (display means)
74 Storage section (storage means)

Claims (8)

A humidifying member for humidifying the air;
A water reservoir for storing water to be supplied to the humidifying member;
Detection means for detecting that the amount of water stored in the water storage unit is less than a predetermined amount;
Determination means for determining whether or not water supply is necessary based on the determination result of the detection means;
Display means for displaying a water supply necessary state when it is determined by the determination means that the water supply is necessary;
The determination means includes
When the state where the amount of water is less than a predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before the start of the humidifying operation, it is determined that the water supply is necessary when the humidifying operation is started. The determination means includes
The humidifying device according to claim 1, wherein the determination is always performed while the power source is driven. Storage means for storing the determination result of the determination means when the power supply drive is stopped;
The display means includes
3. The humidification according to claim 1, wherein when the power supply driving is started, the fact that the water supply is necessary is stored in the storage unit, and the fact that the water supply is necessary is displayed. apparatus. Air purification operation that purifies air without humidifying air is possible,
The determination means includes
When the state where the amount of water is less than a predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before switching from the air cleaning operation to the humidifying operation, it is determined that the water supply is necessary when switching to the humidifying operation. Item 4. A humidifier according to any one of Items 1 to 3. A dehumidifying member for removing moisture contained in the air;
A water storage section for storing water removed by the dehumidifying member;
Detecting means for detecting that the amount of water stored in the water storage unit is a predetermined amount or more;
Determination means for determining whether or not the drainage is necessary based on the determination result of the detection means;
A display means for indicating that the drainage is required when the determination means determines that the drainage is necessary,
The determination means includes
A dehumidifying device, wherein when the state where the amount of water is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before the start of the dehumidifying operation, it is determined that the drainage is necessary when the dehumidifying operation is started. The determination means includes
The dehumidifying device according to claim 5, wherein the determination is always performed while the power source is driven. Storage means for storing the determination result of the determination means when the power supply drive is stopped;
The display means includes
The dehumidification according to claim 5 or 6, wherein when the power drive is started, if the storage means stores that the drainage is necessary, the drainage is necessary. apparatus. Air purification operation that purifies air without dehumidifying air is possible,
The determination means includes
When the state in which the amount of water is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount continues for a predetermined time before switching from the air cleaning operation to the dehumidifying operation, it is determined that the drainage is necessary when switching to the dehumidifying operation. Item 9. The dehumidifying device according to any one of Items 5 to 8.

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