JP2016054099A - Ion generation unit and air conditioner equipped with the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ion generation unit that can give ions to the air efficiently.SOLUTION: An ion generation unit 1A comprises an inlet port 23A for introducing the air, an outlet port 23B for discharging the air, a ventilation route 26 connecting the inlet port 23A and the outlet port 23B, and an ion generation element (a discharge electrode 34) arranged to face the ventilation route 26. On a wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generation element is arranged, a projection part 25a that protrudes from the wall surface toward the wall surface on which the ion generation element is arranged is provided at a position facing the ion generation element or a position at an upstream side of the ventilation route 26 with respect to the former position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

  The present invention relates to an ion generation unit installed in an air passage and an air conditioner including the same.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, electric devices that are configured to produce effects such as sterilization, deodorization, and refresh by generating one or both of positive ions (plus ions) and negative ions (minus ions) have become widespread. .

  In many cases, ion generators that generate ions are integrated with a casing to form an ion generation unit, and the ion generation unit is assembled to various electric devices. Here, as a document disclosing the ion generation unit assumed to be installed in the air passage of the air conditioner, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2004-53040 (Patent Document 1) and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-160307. (Patent Document 2), JP 2012-248349 A (Patent Document 3), and the like.

  Among these, the ion generating unit disclosed in Patent Document 1 has an ion generator embedded in the air passage so as to constitute a part of the wall surface of the air passage, and a cover in the air passage so as to face the ion generator. Is installed. The cover is provided with air inlets and outlets so as to face the air passage, and thereby the ventilation path is configured to face the ion generating element included in the ion generator. Air is taken into the ventilation path through the introduction port, and ions are given to the taken-in air.

  Moreover, the ion generation unit disclosed in Patent Documents 2 and 3 includes a base and a cover as a casing, and an ion generation device accommodated in the base and the cover, and the base of these is the air passage. It is configured to be fixed to the wall surface. The cover is provided with an inlet and an outlet through which air is introduced and led out, and a ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet is formed inside the casing. An ion generator is arrange | positioned so that the ion generating element contained in this may face the ventilation path mentioned above, and ion is provided with respect to the air which flows through a ventilation path by this.

JP 2004-53040 A JP 2012-160307 A JP 2012-248349 A

  Generally, in an ion generating unit, it is important to efficiently give ions to air. However, the ion generation units disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3 still have room for improvement in this respect.

  For example, the ion generation units disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3 are configured such that air flows in a substantially parallel manner in the ventilation path, and the cross-sectional shape of the ventilation path is formed in a relatively simple rectangular shape. It is a thing. Therefore, in order to efficiently apply ions to the air, there is room for studying the air flow by considering the shape of the ventilation path and the like.

  In addition, the ion generation units disclosed in Patent Documents 2 and 3 are provided with lattice portions at the introduction port and the discharge port so that fingers and the like are not accidentally inserted into the unit. There is still room for improvement in the shape of the part.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an ion generating unit capable of efficiently applying ions to air and an air conditioner including the same. And

  An ion generation unit according to a first aspect of the present invention is installed in an air passage, and connects an inlet for introducing air, a outlet for discharging air, and the inlet and the outlet. A ventilation path and an ion generating element arranged to face the ventilation path are provided. Among the wall surfaces facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed, the ion generating element is disposed from the wall surface at a position facing the ion generating element or at a position upstream of the ventilation path from the position. A protrusion that protrudes toward the wall surface is provided.

  In the ion generation unit based on the first aspect of the present invention, it is preferable that a plurality of the protrusions are provided in a dotted line in a direction intersecting the air flow direction in the ventilation path.

  In the ion generation unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the ion generation element may include a discharge electrode and an induction electrode, and in that case, air flow in the ventilation path When viewed along the direction, the protrusion is preferably provided at a position that does not overlap the discharge electrode.

  In the ion generation unit according to the first aspect of the present invention, the height of the ventilation path in the protruding direction of the protruding portion is D11, the height of the protruding portion in the protruding direction is D12, When the distance between the protrusion in the flow direction and the discharge electrode is L1, the D11, the D12, and the L1 are (1/4) × D11 ≦ D12 ≦ (1/2) × D11, In addition, it is preferable that the condition of 0 ≦ L1 ≦ D12 is satisfied.

  The ion generating unit based on the second aspect of the present invention is installed in the air passage, and connects the inlet for introducing air, the outlet for extracting air, the inlet and the outlet. A ventilation path and an ion generating element arranged to face the ventilation path are provided. Among the wall surfaces facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed, the air flow direction in the ventilation path is at a position facing the ion generating element or at a position upstream of the ventilation path from the position. A ridge that protrudes from the wall surface toward the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed is provided so as to extend in a direction intersecting with the wall.

  In the ion generation unit based on the second aspect of the present invention, the height of the ventilation path in the protruding direction of the ridge portion is D21, the height of the protruding portion in the protruding direction is D22, When the distance between the protruding portion and the discharge electrode in the flow direction is L2, D21, D22, and L2 are (1/4) × D21 ≦ D22 ≦ (1/2). It is preferable that the condition of × D21 and 0 ≦ L2 ≦ D22 is satisfied.

  An ion generation unit based on the third aspect of the present invention is installed in an air passage, and connects an inlet for introducing air, an outlet for extracting air, the inlet and the outlet. A ventilation path and an ion generating element arranged to face the ventilation path are provided. Of the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed, between a position on the upstream side of the ventilation path with respect to the ion generating element and a position on the downstream side of the ventilation path with respect to the ion generating element. Is provided with a restricting portion for restricting the ventilation path toward the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed. The ion generation unit according to the third aspect of the present invention includes a portion corresponding to the throttle portion by forming an air flow separated from an upstream edge portion located at the uppermost stream of the throttle portion. The air passing around the ion generating element in the air passage is configured to generate a contracted flow.

  In the ion generation unit according to the third aspect of the present invention, the wall surface defining the throttle portion, which is a pair of wall surfaces constituting the upstream edge portion, and the introduction from the upstream edge portion. The angle formed by the wall surface located on the mouth side is preferably 45 ° or more and 90 ° or less.

  In the ion generation unit according to the third aspect of the present invention, the ion generation element may include a discharge electrode and an induction electrode, in which case the upstream edge portion is located. The height of the ventilation path, which is the distance between the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed and the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed, is D3, and the air in the ventilation path D3 and L31 satisfy the condition of (1/4) × D3 ≦ L31 ≦ D3, where L31 is the distance between the upstream edge portion and the discharge electrode in the flow direction of It is preferable.

  In the ion generation unit according to the third aspect of the present invention, the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed and the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed in the portion where the upstream edge portion is located. The height of the ventilation path, which is the distance between the opposing wall surfaces, is D3, and the upstream edge part in the air flow direction in the ventilation path and the downstream edge part located on the most downstream side of the throttle part When the distance between is L32, it is preferable that the D3 and the L32 satisfy the condition of D3 ≦ L32 ≦ 3 × D3.

  An ion generation unit according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is installed in an air passage, and connects an inlet for introducing air, an outlet for extracting air, the inlet and the outlet. A ventilation path and an ion generating element arranged to face the ventilation path are provided. Of the pair of wall surfaces that are positioned relative to each other and that connects the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed and the wall surface opposite to the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed, Between the position on the upstream side and the position on the downstream side of the ventilation path with respect to the ion generating element, there is provided a throttle portion that restricts the ventilation path toward the inside. The ion generation unit according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is a portion corresponding to the throttle portion by forming an air flow separated from the upstream edge portion located at the uppermost stream of the throttle portion. The air passing through the ion generating element is caused to generate a contracted flow.

  In the ion generation unit according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the wall surface defining the throttle portion, which is a pair of wall surfaces constituting the upstream edge portion, and the introduction from the upstream edge portion. The angle formed by the wall surface located on the mouth side is preferably 60 ° or more and 90 ° or less.

  In the ion generation unit according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the ion generation element may include a discharge electrode and an induction electrode. In that case, the ion generation element is disposed. The width of the ventilation path, which is the distance between a pair of wall surfaces that are positioned relative to each other, connecting the wall surface and the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed, is D4, and in the flow direction When the distance between the upstream edge portion and the discharge electrode is L41, it is preferable that D4 and L4 satisfy the condition of (1/4) × D4 ≦ L4 ≦ D4.

  In the ion generation unit according to the first to fourth aspects of the present invention, a recess may be provided on the wall surface on which the ion generation element is arranged. In that case, the ion generation element It is preferable that at least a part of is accommodated in the recess.

  An ion generation unit according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is installed in an air passage, and connects an inlet for introducing air, an outlet for extracting air, the inlet and the outlet. A ventilation path and an ion generating element arranged to face the ventilation path are provided. In the ion generation unit according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, a pair of the ion generation units connected to each other and connected to the wall surface on which the ion generation element is arranged in a direction intersecting with the air flow direction in the ventilation path. The wall surface and the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed are inclined at a portion connecting them.

  An ion generation unit according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is installed in an air passage, and connects an inlet for introducing air, an outlet for extracting air, the inlet and the outlet. A ventilation path and an ion generating element arranged to face the ventilation path are provided. In the ion generation unit according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the ion generation units are connected to a wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed in a direction intersecting with the air flow direction in the ventilation path. A pair of wall surfaces located on the wall and a wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed are inclined at a portion connecting them.

  An ion generation unit according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is installed in an air passage, and connects an introduction port for introducing air, a lead-out port for deriving air, and the introduction port and the lead-out port. A ventilation path, an ion generating element arranged to face the ventilation path, and a lattice portion provided between the position of the ventilation path where the ion generating element is arranged and the inlet. Yes. In the ion generating unit based on the seventh aspect of the present invention, the tip portion located on the upstream side of the lattice portion is formed in an acute angle shape or a curved shape.

  An ion generation unit according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is installed in an air passage, and connects an inlet for introducing air, an outlet for extracting air, the inlet and the outlet. A ventilation path, an ion generation element arranged to face the ventilation path, and a lattice portion provided between the position where the ion generation element of the ventilation path is arranged and the outlet. Yes. In the ion generation unit based on the eighth aspect of the present invention, the tip portion located on the upstream side of the lattice portion is formed in an acute angle shape or a curved shape.

  In the ion generation unit based on the seventh and eighth aspects of the present invention, it is preferable that the cross section of the lattice portion is a hexagon.

  The air conditioner based on this invention is equipped with one of the ion generating units mentioned above, the ventilation path in which the said ion generation unit was installed, and the ventilation means for making air flow in the said ventilation path.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it can be set as the ion generating unit which can provide an ion with respect to air efficiently, and an air conditioner provided with the same.

It is a perspective view of the indoor unit of the air conditioner in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a perspective view of the ion generation unit in Embodiment 1 of this invention. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the ion generation unit shown in FIG. 2. It is a schematic cross section along the IV-IV line shown in FIG. It is a schematic cross section along the VV line shown in FIG. It is a schematic cross section for demonstrating the suitable shape etc. of the ion generation unit provided with the projection part. It is a perspective view of the ion generation unit in Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a schematic cross section along the VIII-VIII line shown in FIG. It is a schematic cross section for demonstrating the suitable shape etc. of the ion generation unit provided with the protrusion part. It is a perspective view of the ion generation unit in Embodiment 3 of this invention. It is a schematic cross section along the XI-XI line shown in FIG. It is a schematic cross section for demonstrating the suitable shape etc. of the ion generation unit provided with the narrowing part in the height direction of the ventilation path. It is a partially broken perspective view of the ion generation unit in Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is a partially broken top view of the ion generating unit shown in FIG. It is a schematic cross section for demonstrating the suitable shape etc. of the ion generation unit provided with the narrowing part in the width direction of the ventilation path. It is a perspective view of the ion generation unit in Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a partially expanded plan view which shows the structure of the ventilation path of the ion generation unit shown in FIG. It is a schematic cross section along the XVIII-XVIII line shown in FIG. It is a principal part expanded sectional view of the ion generation unit which concerns on a 1st modification. It is a principal part expanded sectional view of the ion generation unit which concerns on a 2nd modification. It is a perspective view of the ion generation unit in Embodiment 6 of this invention. It is a principal part expanded sectional view which shows the structure of the ventilation path of the ion generation unit shown in FIG. FIG. 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the line XXIII-XXIII shown in FIG. 22. It is a figure for demonstrating the suitable shape etc. of a grating | lattice part.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same or common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and description thereof will not be repeated.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. First, with reference to FIG. 1, the indoor unit 100 of the air conditioner in this Embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an indoor unit 100 of an air conditioner is installed on a wall surface of a room, and a blower outlet 101 for blowing out air after heat exchange into the room is provided at the lower front part of the cabinet. It has been. The said blower outlet 101 is connected to the heat exchanger provided in the inside of the cabinet via the ventilation path similarly provided in the inside of the cabinet. The blower outlet 101 is provided with a wind direction plate 102, and the direction of the air blown from the blower outlet 101 is adjusted using the wind direction plate 102.

  In the indoor unit 100 of the air conditioner in the present embodiment, the ion generation unit 1A is assembled to the wind direction plate 102 provided at the air outlet 101, and a part of the air passing through the air passage is By incorporating ions into the ion generating unit 1A and applying ions thereto, air containing ions is blown into the room from the air outlet 101. Note that the assembly position of the ion generating unit 1A is not limited to this, and may be assembled at any position as long as it is within the air passage.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the ion generation unit according to the present embodiment assembled in the indoor unit of the air conditioner according to the present embodiment described above. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the ion generation unit shown in FIG. It is a perspective view. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line IV-IV shown in FIG. 2, and FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V shown in FIG. Next, an ion generation unit 1A in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the ion generation unit 1A in the present embodiment has a flat, elongated, substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape having a longitudinal direction and a short direction when viewed along the thickness direction. The base 10, the cover 20, and the ion generator 30 are provided. The base 10 is formed of a substantially flat plate-shaped member made of resin, and the cover 20 is formed of a box-shaped member made of resin. On the other hand, the ion generator 30 has a flat and elongated substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape whose outer shell is constituted by a resin housing 31. In addition, the base 10, the cover 20, and the housing 31 of the ion generator 30 may be comprised by members other than resin.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the base 10 and the cover 20 constitute a casing of the ion generator 30 by being combined with each other. The ion generator 30 is accommodated in a casing constituted by the base 10 and the cover 20, and thereby a unitized ion generation unit 1 </ b> A is configured.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the base 10 includes a bottom plate portion 11 and a pair of standing wall portions 12 provided at predetermined positions on the periphery of the bottom plate portion 11, and the pair of standing walls. A plurality of locking claws 12 a are provided at predetermined positions of the portion 12. An ion generator 30 is placed on the bottom plate portion 11 of the portion surrounded by the pair of standing wall portions 12.

  On the other hand, the cover 20 includes a top plate portion 21 that faces the bottom plate portion 11 of the base 10 and a frame-shaped peripheral wall portion 22 that is provided continuously with the top plate portion 21. A locking hole 22a that engages with the locking claw 12a provided in the base 10 described above is provided at a predetermined position of the peripheral wall portion 22, and the locking claw 12a is inserted into the locking hole 22a. The cover 20 is attached to the base 10 by engaging.

  Thus, the ion generator 30 is covered with the base 10 and the cover 20 when the cover 20 is attached to the base 10 while being placed on the base 10, and is fixedly accommodated in the casing. Will be.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a substrate 32 is accommodated inside the housing 31 of the ion generator 30, and four ion generating elements 33 are provided on the substrate 32. Each ion generating element 33 includes a discharge electrode 34 having a needle shape and an annular induction electrode 35 surrounding the discharge electrode 34. Each discharge electrode 34 is disposed at the center of an induction electrode 35 having an annular shape.

  In addition, a power supply unit (not shown) is provided inside the ion generator 30, and a voltage is supplied from the power supply unit to each discharge electrode 34. A voltage difference is generated between the discharge electrode 34 and the induction electrode 35 due to the voltage supplied from the power supply unit, and a discharge is generated between them based on the potential difference. Due to the discharge, plasma is generated around the discharge electrode 34, whereby water molecules or oxygen molecules in the air are electrically decomposed to generate positive ions or negative ions.

More specifically, when a positive voltage is applied to the discharge electrode 34, water molecules in the air are electrically decomposed in a plasma region due to discharge, and mainly hydrogen ions H ⁺ are generated. Then, when water molecules in the air aggregate around the generated hydrogen ions H ⁺ , positive cluster ions H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m (m is an arbitrary integer), that is, positive ions are formed. .

On the other hand, when a negative voltage is applied to the discharge electrode 34, oxygen molecules in the air are electrically decomposed in a plasma region due to discharge, and mainly oxygen ions O ²⁻ are generated. Then, when water molecules in the air aggregate around the generated oxygen ions O ²⁻ , negative cluster ions O ²⁻ (H ₂ O) _n (n is an arbitrary integer), that is, negative ions are formed. Is done.

  Here, in the ion generating unit 1A according to the present embodiment, one of the four ion generating elements 33 arranged close to each other generates positive ions and the other generates negative ions. generate. In addition to this, an ion generator that generates only negative ions or an ion generator that generates other ions may be used. Moreover, you may comprise so that the polarity of the ion which generate | occur | produces from an ion generating element may switch for every predetermined time.

  A portion of the housing 31 facing each ion generating element 33 is provided with an opening 31a having a circular shape in plan view. As a result, the discharge electrode 34 of the ion generating element 33 is exposed on the surface of the housing 31 of the ion generating device 30.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, air flows through the top plate portion 21 of the cover 20 that is positioned opposite to the ion generating device 30 in the portion corresponding to the ion generating element pairs that are arranged close to each other. The air passage 26 is formed so as to swell so as to be formed inside thereof. Two portions of the bulging shape are provided in the top plate portion 21 corresponding to each of the two pairs of ion generating elements.

  More specifically, the top plate portion 21 of the cover 20 has a pair of side wall portions 24 erected so as to sandwich the ion generating element pair in the longitudinal direction, and an upper end portion of the pair of side wall portions 24 as a bridge. A space surrounded by the pair of side wall portions 24, the top wall portion 25, and the upper surface of the housing 31 of the ion generator 30 is provided as an air passage 26. It is configured.

  In addition, at a position where the top wall portion 25 is sandwiched along the short direction of the cover 20, an introduction port 23 A for introducing air into the ventilation path 26 and an outlet port 23 B for deriving air from the ventilation path 26. Is provided.

  One of the pair of peripheral wall portions 22 and the top wall portion 25 that are located opposite to each other in the short direction of the cover 20 is curvedly connected to the introduction port 23A along the short direction and the thickness direction of the cover 20. As described above, a plurality of introduction port side lattice portions 27 are provided in parallel with each other. As a result, the introduction port 23A is divided into a plurality of portions in the longitudinal direction of the cover 20 by the plurality of introduction port side lattice portions 27, and fingers and the like enter the inside of the ion generation unit 1A via the introduction port 23A. It is prevented from being inserted.

  The lead-out port 23 </ b> B connects the other of the pair of peripheral wall portions 22 and the top wall portion 25 that are positioned relative to each other in the short-side direction of the cover 20 by being curved along the short-side direction and the thickness direction of the cover 20. As described above, a plurality of outlet port side lattice portions 28 are provided in parallel with each other. Accordingly, the outlet 23B is divided into a plurality of parts in the longitudinal direction of the cover 20 by the plurality of outlet-side lattice portions 28, and fingers and the like enter the inside of the ion generation unit 1A via the outlet 23B. It is prevented from being inserted.

  Here, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, in the ion generation unit 1 </ b> A in the present embodiment, a plurality of protrusions 25 a are provided at predetermined positions on the top wall portion 25 of the cover 20. Specifically, the plurality of projecting portions 25a are provided at a position upstream of the ion generating element 33 in the top wall portion 25 so as to protrude from the top wall portion 25 toward the ion generating device 30 side. ing. The plurality of protrusions 25 a are arranged in a dot array along the longitudinal direction of the cover 20, which is a direction intersecting the air flow direction in the ventilation path 26.

  In this manner, by providing the protrusion 25a at the upstream side of the ion generating element 33 along the air flow direction, as shown in FIG. 4, the air is introduced into the ventilation path 26 via the introduction port 23A. The air flows so as to avoid the projection 25a. Therefore, the air taken into the ventilation path 26 from the inlet 23A flows toward the ion generating element 33, and the gas molecules that serve as the ion source in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33 are relatively dense. It will exist. Therefore, by adopting the above configuration, the amount of ions generated in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33 can be increased, and ions can be efficiently applied to the air.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, since the discharge electrode 34 of the ion generating element 33 is configured to be accommodated in a recess provided in the ion generator 30, sufficient air is normally distributed in the recess. However, by adopting the above configuration, a large amount of air is distributed in the concave portion, so that the amount of ions generated can be greatly increased.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the protrusion 25 a does not overlap at least the discharge electrode 34 when viewed along the air flow direction in the ventilation path 26, that is, along the short direction of the cover 20. In addition, it is preferably provided at a position shifted from the discharge electrode 34 in the longitudinal direction and the thickness direction of the cover 20. This is because a portion with a low pressure is formed on the downstream side of the protrusion 25a, and there are not enough gas molecules as a raw material of ions in the portion, but the position is shifted from the position. This is because the protrusion is provided on the surface of the discharge electrode 34, so that the pressure around the discharge electrode 34 is increased, whereby the flow velocity is increased and more gas molecules serving as an ion source pass.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a suitable shape and the like of an ion generation unit having a protrusion as in the above-described embodiment. In the following, a suitable shape and the like will be described using the ion generation unit as a generalized model.

  As shown in FIG. 6, assuming that the cross-sectional shape of the ventilation path 44 formed inside the ion generation unit is rectangular, the ventilation path 44 is formed on the inner surface of the bottom wall 41 on which the discharge electrode EL is disposed. 41a, the inner surface 43a of the top wall 43 provided with the protrusion 43b, and the inner surfaces of the pair of side walls 42 that connect the bottom wall 41 and the top wall 43 to each other, The ventilation path 44 is positioned so as to connect the air inlet 44a and the air outlet 44b. Here, the discharge electrode EL is accommodated in a recess 41b provided on the bottom wall 41, and the protrusion 43b is provided on the top wall 43 at a position upstream of the discharge electrode EL.

  In this case, the portion from the position where the introduction port 44a is provided along the flow direction to the position where the projection 43b is provided is the introduction portion S1 in which the air flow is close to the laminar flow. From the position where the protrusion 43b is provided along the direction to the predetermined position on the downstream side beyond the position where the discharge electrode EL is provided, the protrusion 43b is provided so that air is near the discharge electrode EL. The portion of the contracted flow portion S2 that flows relatively much becomes a portion that is downstream of the contracted flow portion S2 and reaches the outlet port 44b along the flow direction, and the air flow returns to a state close to a laminar flow. Deriving unit S3.

  Here, when the height of the ventilation path 44 in the projecting direction of the projecting portion 43b is D11 and the height in the projecting direction of the projecting portion 43b is D12, these D11 and D12 are (1/4) × It is preferable that the condition of D11 ≦ D12 ≦ (1/2) × D11 is satisfied. This is because when D12 is less than (1/4) × D11, the effect of providing the protrusion 43b is reduced, and the flow of air flowing toward the discharge electrode EL is not sufficiently formed. When D12 exceeds (1/2) × D11, the air flow is inhibited by the projection 43b, the flow resistance is greatly increased, and the air flowing through the ventilation path 44 is greatly disturbed. It is because it ends.

  Further, when the distance between the protrusion 43b and the discharge electrode EL in the air flow direction is L1, it is preferable that the L1 and the D12 satisfy the condition of 0 ≦ L1 ≦ D12. . This is because, when L1 is less than 0, that is, the protrusion 43b is provided on the downstream side of the discharge electrode EL, and thus the effect of providing the protrusion 43b is greatly diminished. In addition, when L1 exceeds D12, the effect of providing the projection 43b is reduced by increasing the distance between the projection 43b and the discharge electrode EL, and the flow of air flowing toward the discharge electrode EL is reduced. This is because is not sufficiently formed.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an ion generation unit according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, and FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the line VIII-VIII shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the ion generation unit 1B in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 7 and FIG. In addition, the ion generation unit 1B in the present embodiment is installed, for example, in the air passage of the indoor unit 100 of the air conditioner as described above, similarly to the ion generation unit 1A in the first embodiment described above. is there.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the ion generation unit 1B in the present embodiment is not provided with the protrusion 25a when compared with the ion generation unit 1A in the first embodiment described above, and instead of this, In the point provided with the protrusion 25b, the structure is mainly different.

  Specifically, the protrusion 25b protrudes from the top wall 25 toward the ion generator 30 at a position upstream of the ion generating element 33 in the top wall 25 of the cover 20. Is provided. The protrusion 25b extends along the longitudinal direction of the cover 20, which is a direction intersecting the air flow direction in the ventilation path 26.

  In this way, by providing the protrusion 25b at the upstream side of the ion generating element 33 along the air flow direction, as shown in FIG. 8, the air is introduced into the ventilation path 26 via the introduction port 23A. The air thus made will flow so as to avoid the ridges 25b. Therefore, the air taken into the ventilation path 26 from the inlet 23A flows toward the ion generating element 33, and the gas molecules that serve as the ion source in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33 are relatively dense. It will exist. Therefore, by adopting the above configuration, the amount of ions generated in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33 can be increased, and ions can be efficiently applied to the air.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, since the discharge electrode 34 of the ion generating element 33 is configured to be accommodated in a recess provided in the ion generator 30, sufficient air is normally distributed in the recess. However, by adopting the above configuration, a large amount of air is distributed in the concave portion, so that the amount of ions generated can be greatly increased.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a suitable shape and the like of an ion generation unit having a protrusion as in the present embodiment described above. In the following, a suitable shape and the like will be described using the ion generation unit as a generalized model.

  Assuming that the cross-sectional shape of the ventilation path 44 formed inside the ion generation unit is rectangular as shown in FIG. 9, the ventilation path 44 is the inner surface of the bottom wall 41 on which the discharge electrode EL is disposed. 41a, the inner surface 43a of the top wall 43 provided with the protrusion 43c, and the inner surfaces of the pair of side walls 42 that are connected to each other and connect the bottom wall 41 and the top wall 43, The ventilation path 44 is positioned so as to connect the air inlet 44a and the air outlet 44b. Here, the discharge electrode EL is accommodated in a recess 41b provided in the bottom wall 41, and the protrusion 43c is provided on the top wall 43 at a position upstream of the discharge electrode EL. .

  In this case, the portion from the position where the introduction port 44a is provided along the flow direction to the position where the protrusion 43c is provided is the introduction portion S1 in which the air flow is almost in a laminar flow state. The portion near the discharge electrode EL by providing the protrusion 43c from the position where the protrusion 43c is provided along the flow direction to the predetermined position further downstream than the position where the discharge electrode EL is provided. In this case, the flow becomes a contracted portion S2 in which a relatively large amount of air flows, and the portion downstream from the contracted portion S2 and reaching the outlet 44b along the flow direction is mainly close to the laminar flow of air. The derivation unit S3 returns to the state.

  Here, when the height of the ventilation path 44 in the protruding direction of the ridge 43c is D21 and the height in the protruding direction of the ridge 43c is D22, these D21 and D22 are (1/4). ) × D21 ≦ D22 ≦ (1/2) × D21 is preferably satisfied. This is because when D22 is less than (1/4) × D21, the effect of providing the protrusion 43c is reduced, and the flow of air flowing toward the discharge electrode EL is not sufficiently formed. When D22 exceeds (1/2) × D21, the flow of air is inhibited by the protrusion 43c, the flow resistance is greatly increased, and the air flowing through the ventilation path 44 is greatly disturbed. It is because it will be done.

  Further, when the distance between the protrusion 43c in the air flow direction and the discharge electrode EL is L2, the L2 and the D22 may satisfy the condition of 0 ≦ L2 ≦ D22. preferable. This is because, when L2 is less than 0, that is, the protrusion 43c is provided on the downstream side of the discharge electrode EL, and thus the effect of providing the protrusion 43c is greatly diminished. Further, when L2 exceeds D22, the effect of providing the protrusion 43c is reduced by increasing the distance between the protrusion 43c and the discharge electrode EL, and toward the discharge electrode EL side. This is because the flowing air flow is not sufficiently formed.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an ion generation unit according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the line XI-XI shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the ion generation unit 1C in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 10 and FIG. In addition, the ion generating unit 1C in the present embodiment is installed, for example, in the air passage of the indoor unit 100 of the air conditioner as described above, similarly to the ion generating unit 1A in the first embodiment described above. is there.

  As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the ion generation unit 1C in the present embodiment does not include the protrusion 25a when compared with the ion generation unit 1A in the first embodiment described above, and instead of this, The configuration differs mainly in that the top wall portion 25 constitutes a throttle portion that restricts the ventilation path 26 toward the wall surface on which the discharge electrode 34 of the ion generating element 33 is disposed.

  Specifically, the top wall portion 25 is directed toward the ventilation path 26 between a position on the upstream side of the ventilation path 26 with respect to the discharge electrode 34 and a position on the downstream side of the ventilation path 26 with respect to the discharge electrode 34. And the above-described throttle part is constituted by the part. That is, in the present embodiment, the throttle portion is provided in the height direction of the ventilation path 26, that is, in the thickness direction of the ion generation unit. Here, the upstream edge portion E1 of the top wall portion 25 located on the most upstream side of the throttle portion is configured to have an angular shape, and the downstream edge portion E2 of the top wall portion 25 located on the most downstream side of the throttle portion. Also, it has a square shape.

  In this way, by providing a throttle portion that narrows the portion of the ventilation path 26 where the discharge electrode 34 is disposed toward the wall surface side where the discharge electrode 34 is provided, as shown in FIG. In the air introduced into the ventilation path 26, a separated flow starting from the upstream edge portion E1 located at the uppermost stream of the throttle portion is formed. Therefore, a contracted flow is generated in the air passing through the discharge electrode 34 in the portion of the ventilation path 26 corresponding to the throttle portion, and the gas molecules serving as the ion source in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33 are compared. It becomes a state that exists closely. Therefore, by adopting the above configuration, the amount of ions generated in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33 can be increased, and ions can be efficiently applied to the air.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, since the discharge electrode 34 of the ion generating element 33 is configured to be accommodated in a recess provided in the ion generator 30, sufficient air is normally distributed in the recess. However, by adopting the above configuration, a large amount of air is distributed in the concave portion, so that the amount of ions generated can be greatly increased.

  FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a suitable shape and the like of an ion generation unit having a constricted portion in the height direction of the ventilation path as in the present embodiment described above. In the following, a suitable shape and the like will be described using the ion generation unit as a generalized model.

  As shown in FIG. 12, assuming that the cross-sectional shape of the ventilation path 44 formed inside the ion generation unit is rectangular, the ventilation path 44 is formed on the inner surface of the bottom wall 41 on which the discharge electrode EL is disposed. 41a, the inner surface 43a of the top wall 43 provided with the throttle portion, and the inner surfaces of the pair of side walls 42 that are connected to each other to connect the bottom wall 41 and the top wall 43. The path 44 is positioned so as to connect the air inlet 44a and the air outlet 44b. Here, the discharge electrode EL is accommodated in a recess 41b provided in the bottom wall 41, and the throttle portion is constituted by the top wall 43 of the portion including the discharge electrode EL.

  In this case, from the position where the introduction port 44a is provided along the flow direction to the position where the upstream edge portion E1 of the throttle portion is provided, the introduction portion in which the air flow is almost in a state close to laminar flow. S1 and from the position where the upstream edge portion E1 of the throttle portion is provided along the flow direction to the position where the downstream edge portion E2 of the throttle portion is provided beyond the position where the discharge electrode EL is provided. By providing the throttle part, the flow becomes a contracted part S2 in which a relatively large amount of air flows near the discharge electrode EL, and the outlet 44b is provided from the position where the downstream edge E2 of the throttle part is provided along the flow direction. Up to the position where it is located, it becomes the derivation unit S3 where the air flow returns to a state close to laminar flow.

  Here, the inner surface 43a of the top wall 43 that defines the throttle portion, which is a pair of wall surfaces constituting the upstream edge portion E1, and the inner surface of the top wall 43 that is positioned on the inlet 44a side with respect to the upstream edge portion E1. The angle θ3 formed by 43a is preferably 45 ° or more and 90 ° or less. This is because when θ3 is less than 45 °, it is difficult to form a separated air flow starting from the upstream edge portion E1, and there is a sufficient amount in the ventilation path 44 corresponding to the throttle portion. This is because the contracted flow is not formed, and when θ3 exceeds 90 °, the effect is the same as when θ3 is 90 °. When θ3 is 90 °, the strength of the vortex, which is the separated air flow, is maximized, and the contracted flow can be formed most effectively. The ion generating unit 1C shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 described above shows a case where θ3 is 90 °.

  The upstream edge E1 preferably has an angular shape as described above, but is configured by a curved surface having a radius of curvature of (1/4) × D3 or less in relation to D3 described later. May be. By satisfying the condition, even if the upstream edge portion E1 is formed of a curved surface, a peeled air flow can be formed.

  Further, the height of the ventilation path 44, which is the distance between the inner surface 43a of the top wall 43 and the inner surface 41a of the bottom wall 41 of the portion constituting the throttle portion, is D3, and the upstream edge in the flow direction in the ventilation path 44 When the distance between the part E1 and the discharge electrode EL is L31, it is preferable that these D3 and L31 satisfy the condition of (1/4) × D3 ≦ L31 ≦ D3. This is because, when L31 is less than (1/4) × D3, most of the separated air flow starting from the upstream edge E1 is formed downstream of the discharge electrode EL. For this reason, the effect of providing the throttle portion is greatly diminished, and when L31 exceeds D3, the distance between the upstream edge portion E1 and the discharge electrode EL is increased, thereby reducing the throttle portion. This is because the effect of providing is reduced and sufficient contracted current is not formed in the vicinity of the discharge electrode EL. Note that L31 is preferably about (1/2) × D3 in order to obtain the maximum effect of providing the aperture portion.

  Further, when the distance between the upstream edge portion E1 and the downstream edge portion E2 in the air flow direction in the ventilation path 44 is L32, the L32 and the D3 are D3 ≦ L32 ≦ 3 ×. It is preferable that the condition of D3 is satisfied. This is because when L32 is lower than D3, most of the peeled air flow starting from the upstream edge E1 is formed downstream of the discharge electrode EL, so that a throttle portion is provided. This is because when the L32 exceeds 3 × D3, the pressure loss becomes so large that it cannot be ignored. Note that L32 is preferably about 2 × D3 in order to obtain the maximum effect of providing the aperture portion.

(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 13 is a partially broken perspective view of the ion generating unit according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, and FIG. 14 is a partially broken plan view of the ion generating unit shown in FIG. Hereinafter, with reference to these FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the ion generating unit 1D in the present embodiment will be described. In addition, the ion generation unit 1D in the present embodiment is installed, for example, in the air passage of the indoor unit 100 of the air conditioner as described above, like the ion generation unit 1A in the first embodiment described above. is there.

  As shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the ion generation unit 1D in the present embodiment has a ventilation path when compared with a generalized model (see FIG. 12) of the ion generation unit 1C in the third embodiment described above. It is different in that it does not include a throttle portion that squeezes 44 in the height direction, and instead includes a throttle portion that squeezes the ventilation path 44 in the width direction.

  Specifically, each of the pair of side walls 42 defining the ventilation path 44 is between a position on the upstream side of the ventilation path 44 with respect to the discharge electrode EL and a position on the downstream side of the ventilation path 44 with respect to the discharge electrode EL. Furthermore, it has the site | part which protruded toward the ventilation path 44 side, and the aperture | diaphragm | squeeze part mentioned above is comprised by these site | parts. That is, in the present embodiment, the throttle portion is provided in the width direction of the ventilation path 44, that is, in the longitudinal direction of the cover (not shown). Here, each of the upstream edge portions E3 of the pair of side walls 42 positioned at the uppermost stream of the throttle portion is formed in an angular shape, and the downstream edges of the pair of side walls 42 positioned at the most downstream side of the throttle portion. The part E4 is also configured in an angular shape.

  As shown in FIG. 14, by providing the throttle portion for narrowing the portion of the ventilation path 44 where the discharge electrode EL is disposed toward the central portion of the ventilation path 44, which is the side where the discharge electrode EL is located. In addition, in the air introduced into the ventilation path 44 through the introduction port 44a, a separated flow starting from the pair of upstream edge portions E3 positioned at the uppermost stream of the throttle portion is formed. Therefore, a contracted flow is generated in the air passing through the discharge electrode EL in the portion of the ventilation path 44 corresponding to the constricted portion, and the gas molecules serving as the ion source are relatively near the discharge electrode EL. It becomes a state that exists densely. Therefore, by adopting the above configuration, the amount of ions generated in the vicinity of the ion generating element can be increased, and ions can be efficiently applied to the air.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, since the discharge electrode EL is configured to be accommodated in the recess 41b provided in the bottom wall 41, it is usually difficult to allow sufficient air to reach the recess 41b. By adopting the above configuration, a large amount of air is distributed in the recess 41b, so that the amount of ions generated can be significantly increased.

  FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining a suitable shape and the like of an ion generation unit having a constricted portion in the width direction of the ventilation path as in the present embodiment described above. In the following, a suitable shape and the like will be described using the ion generation unit as a generalized model.

  As shown in FIG. 15, in the ion generation unit 1D, the flow of air is exclusively from the position where the introduction port 44a is provided along the flow direction to the position where the upstream edge portion E3 of the throttle portion is provided. The introduction portion S1 is in a state close to a laminar flow, and the downstream edge portion of the restriction portion extends from the position where the upstream edge portion E3 of the restriction portion is provided along the flow direction to the position where the discharge electrode EL is provided. Up to the position where E4 is provided, the provision of the constriction portion results in a contracted portion S2 in which a relatively large amount of air flows near the discharge electrode EL, and the downstream edge portion E4 of the constriction portion is provided along the flow direction. From the provided position to the position where the outlet 44b is provided, the outlet portion S3 returns to a state in which the air flow is close to a laminar flow.

  Here, an inner surface 42a of the side wall 42 that defines the throttle portion, which is a pair of wall surfaces constituting the upstream edge portion E3, and an inner surface 42a of the side wall 42 that is positioned on the inlet 44a side with respect to the upstream edge portion E3. Is preferably 60 ° or more and 90 ° or less. This is because, when θ4 is less than 60 °, it is difficult to form a peeled air flow starting from the upstream edge portion E3, which is sufficient in a portion of the ventilation path 44 corresponding to the throttle portion. This is because the contracted flow is not formed, and when θ4 exceeds 90 °, the effect is the same as when θ4 is 90 °. When θ4 is 90 °, the strength of the vortex, which is the separated air flow, is maximized, and the contracted flow can be formed most effectively. The ion generation unit 1D shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 described above shows a case where θ4 is 90 °.

  The upstream edge portion E3 preferably has an angular shape as described above, but is configured by a curved surface having a radius of curvature of (1/4) × D4 or less in relation to D4 described later. May be. By satisfying the condition, even if the upstream edge portion E3 is formed of a curved surface, a peeled air flow can be formed.

  Further, the width of the ventilation path 44, which is the distance between the inner surfaces 42a of the pair of side walls 42 in the portion constituting the throttle section, is D4, and the distance between the upstream edge portion E3 and the discharge electrode EL in the flow direction in the ventilation path 44. When L4 is L4, it is preferable that these D4 and L4 satisfy the condition of (1/4) × D4 ≦ L4 ≦ D4. This is because, when L4 is less than (1/4) × D4, most of the separated air flow starting from the upstream edge portion E3 is formed downstream of the discharge electrode EL. For this reason, the effect of providing the throttle portion is greatly diminished, and when L4 exceeds D4, the distance between the upstream edge portion E3 and the discharge electrode EL is increased, thereby reducing the throttle portion. This is because the effect of providing is reduced and sufficient contracted current is not formed in the vicinity of the discharge electrode EL. Note that L4 is preferably about (1/2) × D4 in order to obtain the maximum effect of providing the aperture portion.

(Embodiment 5)
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an ion generation unit according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a partially enlarged plan view showing the configuration of the ventilation path of the ion generation unit shown in FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the line XVIII-XVIII shown in FIG. Hereinafter, with reference to these FIG. 16 thru | or FIG. 18, the ion generation unit 1E in this Embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIGS. 16 to 18, the ion generation unit 1 </ b> E in the present embodiment does not include the protrusion 25 a when compared with the ion generation unit 1 </ b> A in the above-described first embodiment, and instead of this, The configuration is mainly different in that an inclined portion 24a is provided at a portion connecting the side wall portion 24 of the cover 20 and the upper surface of the housing 31 of the ion generator 30 constituting the bottom surface of the ventilation path 26. .

  Specifically, the inclined portion 24 a is configured such that a portion near the lower end of the side wall portion 24 of the cover 20 protrudes toward the ventilation path 26, and thereby the cross section of the ventilation path 26. The shape of the portion near the ion generator 30 is configured to gradually narrow as the width approaches the ion generator 30. In addition, the inclined portion 24a is configured such that the width of the air passage 26 becomes wider as it approaches the inlet 23A and the outlet 23B at the portion closer to the inlet 23A and the portion near the outlet 23B.

  Here, when the cross-sectional shape of the ventilation path is rectangular, it is difficult for air to smoothly flow at the corners, which may cause turbulence. When a turbulent flow occurs in the portion, a significant pressure loss is caused, resulting in a loss of blowing efficiency.

  In this regard, in the ion generation unit 1E in the present embodiment, a pair of the inclined portions 24a are provided in the width direction of the ventilation path, so that the pair of side wall portions 24 and the upper surface of the housing 31 of the ion generation device 30 are provided. However, it will have an inclined shape at the part connecting them, allowing air to flow smoothly in the vicinity of the part and not only suppressing the loss of blowing efficiency, Since the air flow velocity in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33 is also accelerated accordingly, ions can be efficiently given to the air.

  19 and 20 are enlarged cross-sectional views of main parts of ion generation units according to first and second modifications based on the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the ion generating unit 1E1 according to the first modification is provided with an inclined portion 24b at a portion connecting the side wall portion 24 and the top wall portion 25 of the cover 20 instead of the pair of inclined portions 24a described above. However, the configuration is different.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 20, an ion generation unit 1E2 according to the second modification has an inclined portion 31b having the same shape as the above-described pair of inclined portions 24a instead of the pair of inclined portions 24a described above. The configuration is different in that it is configured by.

  Even when these configurations are adopted, the same effect as in the case of the ion generation unit 1E in the present embodiment described above can be obtained, air can be smoothly passed, and the loss of blowing efficiency can be reduced. Generation | occurrence | production can be suppressed and it becomes possible to provide an ion with respect to air efficiently because the flow velocity of the air in the ion generating element 33 vicinity increases.

  When the inclined portions 24a, 24b, 31b as described above are provided in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33, the creeping distance of the ion generating element 33 is affected, or the electric field formed by the ion generating element 33 is affected. It is necessary to give sufficient consideration to this point because it may have an impact. In this regard, when the inclined portions 24a and 24b are provided at the corners on the ion generating device 30 side of the ventilation path 26 as in the configuration according to the present embodiment and the second modification described above, the ion generating element Since the possibility of affecting the electric field formed by 33 can be greatly reduced, this is advantageous over the configuration according to the first modification in this respect.

(Embodiment 6)
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an ion generation unit according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention, and FIG. 22 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the main part showing the configuration of the ventilation path of the ion generation unit shown in FIG. FIG. 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the line XXIII-XXIII shown in FIG. Of these, FIG. 22 shows a cut surface along a plane that crosses the inlet-side lattice portion 27 and the outlet-side lattice portion 28. Hereinafter, the ion generation unit 1F in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, in the ion generation unit 1 </ b> F in the present embodiment, both the inlet-side lattice portion 27 and the outlet-side lattice portion 28 are cross sections in a direction orthogonal to the extending direction. The tip is configured to have a substantially hexagonal shape, and each of the inlet-side lattice portion 27 and the outlet-portion-side lattice portion 28 is located on the upstream side of the air passage 26 along the air flow direction. The portions 27a and 28a are configured in an acute angle shape or a curved shape.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 22, in the present embodiment, the distal end portion 27 a located on the upstream side of the inlet port side lattice portion 27 is configured in a curved shape, and the outlet port side lattice portion 28 The tip end portion 28a located on the upstream side is configured with an acute angle. By configuring in this way, it becomes possible to allow air to flow smoothly, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in blowing efficiency caused by the air colliding with the inlet side lattice part 27 and the outlet side lattice part 28. At the same time, the flow velocity of air in the vicinity of the ion generating element 33 is increased, so that ions can be efficiently applied to the air.

  Furthermore, the extinction of ions generated due to the agitation of air in the vicinity of the outlet port side lattice portion 28 by making the tip portion 28a of the outlet port side lattice portion 28 as described above in particular. Therefore, the amount of ions released from the ion generation unit can be increased, and efficiency can be improved also in this respect.

  Referring to FIG. 23, as a lattice portion that preferably has an acute-angled or curved tip portion located on the upstream side in the air flow direction in the air passage 26, the inlet-side lattice portion 27 is used. And parts represented by regions R3 and R4 of the outlet-side lattice portion 28.

  Here, with respect to the height direction, it is preferable that the tip of the lattice portion is formed in an acute angle or curved shape at a position farther away from the ion generating element 33, and in that sense, in the regions R2 and R3, The shape of the tip should be acute or curved. On the other hand, with respect to the flow direction, it is preferable that the tip of the lattice portion is formed in an acute angle or a curved shape on the downstream side of the ion generating element 33. Should be sharp or curved. However, it goes without saying that it is optimal to make the tip of the lattice portion have an acute angle shape or a curved shape in all portions of the lattice portion (that is, all of the regions R1 to R4).

  In the present embodiment, only the front end portions 27a and 28a located on the upstream side in the air flow direction of the air passage 26 in each of the inlet-side lattice portion 27 and the outlet-side lattice portion 28 are used. In addition, the rear end portion located on the downstream side along the air flow direction in the ventilation path 26 is also configured to have an acute angle or a curved shape. By comprising in this way, the smooth air flow can be formed in the downstream of these rear-end parts, and the improvement of ventilation efficiency is achieved also in this point.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining a suitable shape and the like of the lattice portion. As shown in FIGS. 24A to 24C, suitable shapes of the lattice portion 45 include an elongated hexagon (see FIG. 24A), an elongated rhombus (see FIG. 24B), An elongated oval shape (see FIG. 24C) or the like is particularly suitable, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and a front end portion located on the upstream side of the lattice portion 45 and / or a rear end portion located on the downstream side is provided. It does not have to be a plane perpendicular to the air flow direction.

  In the above-described embodiment of the present invention and the modification thereof, the description has been given by exemplifying the configuration example in the case where the discharge electrode of the ion generating element is not positioned so as to protrude in the ventilation path. Only a part of the discharge electrode may be accommodated in the recess, and the remaining part may be arranged to protrude into the ventilation path, or the entire discharge electrode may be arranged to protrude into the ventilation path. However, when the space of the discharge electrode and the creepage distance are secured, the thickness of the ion generation unit is suppressed, and when this is installed in the air passage, it does not obstruct the flow of air flowing through the air passage as much as possible. Thus, from the viewpoint of reducing the thickness of the ion generation unit, it is preferable that the discharge electrode is not positioned so as to protrude into the ventilation path.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment of the present invention and its modifications, the ion generation unit provided in the indoor unit of the air conditioner and the case where the present invention is applied to the indoor unit of the air conditioner will be described as an example. Ion generation unit provided in other air conditioners (for example, air purifiers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, blowers, built-in type air conditioners embedded in buildings, etc.) and air conditioners thereof Of course, it is possible to apply the present invention.

  Further, the characteristic configurations shown in the above-described embodiment of the present invention and the modifications thereof can naturally be combined with each other without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  As described above, the above-described embodiment and its modifications disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The technical scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1A to 1E, 1E1, 1E2, 1F Ion generation unit, 10 base, 11 bottom plate, 12 upright wall, 12a locking claw, 20 cover, 21 top plate, 22 peripheral wall, 22a locking hole, 23A inlet, 23B outlet port, 24 side wall portion, 24a, 24b inclined portion, 25 top wall portion, 25a projection portion, 25b ridge portion, 26 ventilation path, 27 inlet port side lattice portion, 27a tip portion, 28 outlet port side lattice portion, 28a tip part, 30 ion generator, 31 housing, 31a opening, 31b inclined part, 32 substrate, 33 ion generating element, 34 discharge electrode, 35 induction electrode, 41 bottom wall, 41a inner surface, 42 sidewall, 42a inner surface, 43 Top wall, 43a inner surface, 43b protrusion, 43c ridge, 44 ventilation path, 44a inlet, 44b outlet, 45 grid, 100 chambers Machine, 101 outlet, 102 louvers, E1, E3 upstream edge portion, E2, E4 downstream edge portion, EL discharge electrodes, S1 introducing portion, S2 vena contracta, S3 deriving unit.

Claims (20)

An ion generating unit installed in the air passage,
An inlet for introducing air;
An outlet for deriving air;
A ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
An ion generating element disposed so as to face the ventilation path,
Of the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed, the ion generating element is disposed from the wall surface at a position facing the ion generating element or at a position upstream of the ventilation path from the position. The ion generating unit is provided with a protrusion that protrudes toward the wall surface.   2. The ion generation unit according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the protrusions are provided in a dotted line in a direction intersecting with an air flow direction in the ventilation path. The ion generating element includes a discharge electrode and an induction electrode,
The ion generation unit according to claim 1, wherein the projection is provided at a position that does not overlap the discharge electrode when viewed along the air flow direction in the ventilation path.   The height of the ventilation path in the protruding direction of the protruding portion is D11, the height of the protruding portion in the protruding direction is D12, and the distance between the protruding portion and the discharge electrode in the flow direction is L1. In this case, the D11, the D12, and the L1 satisfy (1/4) × D11 ≦ D12 ≦ (1/2) × D11 and 0 ≦ L1 ≦ D12. The ion generating unit described. An ion generating unit installed in the air passage,
An inlet for introducing air;
An outlet for deriving air;
A ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
An ion generating element disposed so as to face the ventilation path,
Among the wall surfaces facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed, the air flow direction in the ventilation path is at a position facing the ion generating element or at a position upstream of the ventilation path from the position. An ion generation unit provided with a protrusion that protrudes from the wall surface toward the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed so as to extend in a crossing direction.   The height of the ventilation path in the protruding direction of the protrusion is D21, the height of the protrusion in the protruding direction is D22, and the distance between the protrusion and the discharge electrode in the flow direction. Where D21, D22, and L2 satisfy the conditions of (1/4) × D21 ≦ D22 ≦ (1/2) × D21 and 0 ≦ L2 ≦ D22. Item 6. The ion generation unit according to Item 5. An ion generating unit installed in the air passage,
An inlet for introducing air;
An outlet for deriving air;
A ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
An ion generating element disposed so as to face the ventilation path,
Of the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed, between a position on the upstream side of the ventilation path with respect to the ion generating element and a position on the downstream side of the ventilation path with respect to the ion generating element. A throttle part is provided for narrowing the ventilation path toward the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed,
By forming an air flow separated from the upstream edge portion located at the uppermost stream of the constricted portion, the air flow in the portion corresponding to the constricted portion and around the ion generating element is formed. An ion generation unit that creates a contracted flow in the passing air.   An angle formed by a wall surface defining the throttle portion, which is a pair of wall surfaces constituting the upstream edge portion, and a wall surface located on the inlet side with respect to the upstream edge portion is 45 ° or more and 90 ° or less. The ion generating unit according to claim 7, wherein The ion generating element includes a discharge electrode and an induction electrode,
The height of the ventilation path, which is the distance between the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed and the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed in the portion where the upstream edge portion is located. When D3 is L3 and the distance between the upstream edge portion and the discharge electrode in the air flow direction in the ventilation path is L31, D3 and L31 are (1/4) × D3 ≦ L31. The ion generating unit according to claim 7 or 8, wherein a condition of ≦ D3 is satisfied.   The height of the ventilation path, which is the distance between the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed and the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed in the portion where the upstream edge portion is located. D3, and when the distance between the upstream edge portion in the air flow direction in the ventilation path and the downstream edge portion located on the most downstream side of the throttle portion is L32, D3 and L32 are The ion generating unit according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein a condition of D3 ≦ L32 ≦ 3 × D3 is satisfied. An ion generating unit installed in the air passage,
An inlet for introducing air;
An outlet for deriving air;
A ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
An ion generating element disposed so as to face the ventilation path,
Of the pair of wall surfaces that are positioned relative to each other and that connects the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed and the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed, Between the position on the upstream side and the position on the downstream side of the ventilation path with respect to the ion generating element, a throttling portion for restricting the ventilation path toward the inside is provided,
By forming an air flow separated from the upstream edge portion located at the uppermost stream of the constricted portion, the air flow in the portion corresponding to the constricted portion and around the ion generating element is formed. An ion generation unit that creates a contracted flow in the passing air.   An angle formed by a wall surface defining the throttle portion, which is a pair of wall surfaces constituting the upstream edge portion, and a wall surface located on the inlet side with respect to the upstream edge portion is 60 ° or more and 90 ° or less. The ion generating unit according to claim 11, wherein The ion generating element includes a discharge electrode and an induction electrode,
The width of the ventilation path, which is the distance between a pair of wall surfaces positioned relative to each other, connecting the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed and the wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generation element is disposed. When the distance between the upstream edge portion in the flow direction and the discharge electrode is L4, D4 and L4 satisfy the condition of (1/4) × D4 ≦ L4 ≦ D4. The ion generating unit according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the ion generating unit is satisfied. A recess is provided on the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed,
The ion generating unit according to claim 1, wherein at least a part of the ion generating element is accommodated in the recess. An ion generating unit installed in the air passage,
An inlet for introducing air;
An outlet for deriving air;
A ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
An ion generating element disposed so as to face the ventilation path,
A pair of wall surfaces positioned relative to each other and connected to a wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed in a direction intersecting with a direction of air flow in the ventilation path, and a wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed, An ion generating unit having an inclined shape at a portion connecting them. An ion generating unit installed in the air passage,
An inlet for introducing air;
An outlet for deriving air;
A ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
An ion generating element disposed so as to face the ventilation path,
A pair of wall surfaces located opposite to each other and connected to a wall surface facing the wall surface on which the ion generating element is disposed in a direction crossing the air flow direction in the ventilation path, and the ion generating element is disposed. An ion generating unit in which a wall surface facing the wall surface is inclined at a portion connecting them. An ion generating unit installed in the air passage,
An inlet for introducing air;
An outlet for deriving air;
A ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
An ion generating element disposed so as to face the ventilation path;
A lattice portion provided between the position where the ion generating element of the ventilation path is disposed and the inlet,
The ion generation unit in which the front-end | tip part located in the upstream of the said grating | lattice part is formed in acute angle shape or curve shape. An ion generating unit installed in the air passage,
An inlet for introducing air;
An outlet for deriving air;
A ventilation path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
An ion generating element disposed so as to face the ventilation path;
A lattice portion provided between the position where the ion generating element of the ventilation path is disposed and the outlet port;
The ion generation unit in which the front-end | tip part located in the upstream of the said grating | lattice part is formed in acute angle shape or curve shape.   The ion generation unit according to claim 17 or 18 whose section of said lattice part is a hexagon. An ion generation unit according to any one of claims 1 to 19,
An air passage in which the ion generation unit is installed;
An air conditioner comprising air blowing means for causing air to flow in the air blowing path.

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