JP2019027706A - Humidification element, and humidifier using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a humidification element including an excellent humidification capacity by increasing an effective area of a water absorbing film, easy to maintain, stably usable for a long period, capable of suppressing the number of components, and capable of reducing a cost of manufacture, and to provide a humidification unit using the humidification element, and a humidifier using the humidification unit.SOLUTION: A humidification element is a humidification element which comprises a frame body, two water absorbing films, and a water conduction port. The frame body has a shape made by punching the center of a thin plate, and the frame body includes a plurality of comb-shaped blades which extend from one side of a pair of opposed sides of the frame body to the other side, and extend from the other side to the one side. The two water absorbing films are each fixed to both surfaces of the frame body so as to cover the hollow part of the frame body, and the hollow part of the frame body covered with the two water absorbing films is formed with a liquid flow passage. The water conduction port is provided in the upper and lower sides of the frame body and communicated with the liquid flow passage.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

  The present invention relates to a humidifying element and a humidifier device using the humidifying element. More specifically, the present invention has an excellent humidifying ability by increasing the effective area of a water absorption film, is easy to maintain, and is used for a long period of time. The present invention relates to a humidifying element that can be used stably, can reduce the number of parts, and can reduce manufacturing costs, and a humidifier device using the humidifying element.

  Conventionally, a vaporizing type humidifier device has been used. The vaporizing type humidifier device humidifies the vaporizing water by vaporizing it. A humidification mechanism such as a drop permeation vaporization type or a moisture permeable membrane type is used for a vaporization type humidifier device.

  A moisture permeable membrane type humidifier device uses a humidifying element provided with a moisture permeable membrane using a porous sheet made of a hydrophobic polymer material (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2). . This humidifying element is configured to form a tubular membrane body by a sheet of a hydrophobic polymer porous membrane that prevents passage of water but allows passage of water vapor. Humidification water is supplied to the inside of the tubular membrane body from the water inlet provided in the humidifying element, air is sent to the opening of the mounting frame, and the humidifying water inside the tubular membrane body passes through the hydrophobic polymer porous membrane. Humidification is performed by being discharged to the outside as water vapor.

  In Patent Document 1, a waterproof and moisture-permeable sheet is fixed to the front surface (front surface, more precisely, the back surface, that is, the back surface) of a frame body in which a thin plate is hollowed so as to cover the hollowed portion. And a gas-liquid separation element material in which a plurality of ribs are disposed on the surface of the waterproof / moisture permeable sheet on the side where the frame is provided so as to mount a pair of opposing sides of the frame. Two sheets, the back surfaces are overlapped, and the liquid flow path (surrounded by the frame) is integrated by bonding or fusing except for the hollowed out part and surrounded by the frame and the waterproof and moisture permeable sheet Meaning that the space surrounded by the waterproof and moisture permeable sheet is a liquid flow path, that is, the liquid flow path is surrounded by the waterproof and moisture permeable sheet) Is formed, and a part of the frame body communicates with the liquid flow path and is used for supplying or discharging liquid. Gas-liquid separating element, characterized in that the drain port is formed above one location (i.e., humidifying element) is disclosed.

  In Patent Document 2, waterproof and moisture permeable membranes are fixed to both main surfaces of a frame having a shape in which a thin plate is hollowed out, and the humidifier plate supplies water from one end to a humidified portion between the waterproof and moisture permeable membranes in the frame. The thickness of the frame is thicker than the portion defining the humidifying portion in the portion defining the water supply portion, and the humidifying plates are laminated so that the water supply portions overlap each other, forming a common water supply portion for each humidifying plate, and There is disclosed a humidifying plate (that is, a humidifying element) configured such that a space is formed between the humidifying plates based on a difference in thickness between the water supply unit and the humidifying unit.

However, since the humidifying element of Patent Document 1 is provided with ribs on the outer side of the waterproof moisture permeable membrane (that is, outside of the liquid flow path), the waterproof moisture permeable membrane swells to come into strong contact with the ribs. There is a possibility that the membrane may be damaged, and there is a problem that it is difficult to use the humidifying element for a long period of time.
In addition, since the humidifying element of Patent Document 1 is formed by overlapping two frames, the number of parts of the humidifying element is increased, and the manufacturing of the humidifying element is complicated and the manufacturing costs high. There was also a problem.
In addition, since the humidifying element of Patent Document 1 is formed by overlapping two frames, the thickness of the humidifying element increases, the number of humidifying elements that can be provided per unit volume decreases, Since it becomes difficult to increase the surface area of the wet film, there is also a problem that the humidification capacity of the entire humidifier is lowered.

In the humidifying element of Patent Document 2, since the water supply part of the humidifying plate has an opening structure, the pressurized water leakage test cannot be performed on the humidifying plate alone, and the pressurized water leakage test is performed when the humidifier is assembled. Therefore, if even one humidifying plate causes water leakage, there is a problem that the entire humidifier becomes unusable.
Further, since the humidifying element of Patent Document 2 has a water supply part provided only on the upper part of the humidifying element, it is difficult to completely drain the humidifying water supplied to the humidifying plate, and the humidifying element remaining on the humidifying plate remains. There was also a problem that mold and the like were easily generated in the water.
In addition, there is a problem that it is difficult to use stably over a long period of time, for example, a component contained in the humidifying water is deposited under the humidifying plate, causing clogging.

Patent No. 4077187 Patent No. 3675529

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, has an excellent humidifying ability by increasing the effective area of the water absorption membrane, is easy to maintain, and has a long period of time. Provided are a humidifying element that can be used stably over a long period of time, can reduce the number of parts, and can reduce the manufacturing cost, a humidifying unit that uses the humidifying element, and a humidifier device that uses the humidifying unit. For the purpose.
In the present invention, the requirement to form a liquid flow path by superimposing two frames described in Patent Document 1 and the thickness of the frame described in Patent Document 2 are humidified at the portion defining the water supply unit. One of the features is to eliminate the requirement of being thicker than the part defining the part.

The invention according to claim 1 is a humidifying element including a frame, two water absorbing films, and a water passage,
The frame body has a shape in which a thin plate is hollowed out,
The frame includes a plurality of comb blades extending from one side of the pair of opposing sides of the frame to the other side and from the other side to the one side, respectively.
The two water-absorbing films are respectively fixed to both sides of the frame so as to cover the hollow portion of the frame,
A liquid flow path is formed in the hollow portion of the frame covered with the two water absorption films,
The humidifying element according to claim 1, wherein the water flow port is provided on an upper side and a lower side of the frame body and communicates with the liquid flow path.

  The invention according to claim 2 relates to the humidifying element according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of comb blades alternately extend from both sides of the pair of opposing sides.

  The invention according to claim 3 is that the protruding lengths of the plurality of comb blades extending alternately from both sides of the pair of opposing sides are 50% or more of the length in the width direction of the frame body. The humidifying element according to claim 2, characterized in that

  The invention according to claim 4 relates to the humidifying element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the water absorption film is paper, non-woven fabric, or cloth.

  The invention according to claim 5 is characterized in that head portions are respectively provided on an upper portion of one surface of the frame body and a lower portion of the other surface of the frame body. It is related with the humidification element of any one.

The invention according to claim 6 is a humidifying element according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A humidifying unit including a housing in which a plurality of the humidifying elements are stored,
In the housing, the plurality of humidifying elements are connected in series and / or in parallel with a gap so as to form a ventilation path,
A lower water passage is provided below the plurality of humidifying elements,
An upper water passage is provided above the plurality of humidifying elements,
The housing is provided with a water supply / drain port for communicating the outside of the housing with the lower water passage,
The humidifying unit is characterized in that the casing is provided with an intake / exhaust port for communicating the outside of the casing with an upper water passage.

The invention according to claim 7 is a humidifier device including the humidification unit according to claim 6, a water supply tank, a drain tank, and an intake / exhaust pipe,
The humidification unit, the water supply tank, and the drainage tank are communicated with each other at the lower part of the humidification unit via a water supply / drainage pipe having means for enabling a water supply operation and a drainage operation,
The intake / exhaust soot is connected to the upper portion of the humidifying unit,
The present invention relates to a humidifier device, wherein a fan for ventilating the ventilation path of the humidifying unit is provided.

The invention according to claim 8 is a circulation type humidifier device including the humidification unit according to claim 6, a water supply tank, a water supply pump, and an intake pipe,
The water supply tank is provided below the humidification unit,
The humidification unit and the water supply tank are communicated with each other at a lower portion of the humidification unit through a water supply pipe having a water supply operation and the water supply pump and a drain valve.
The humidification unit and the water supply tank are communicated with each other at an upper portion of the humidification unit via a drain pipe provided with the intake valve,
The present invention relates to a humidifier device, wherein a fan for ventilating the ventilation path of the humidifying unit is provided.

  The invention according to claim 9 relates to the humidifier device according to claim 7, wherein a cleaning or sterilizing tank containing a cleaning liquid or a sterilizing liquid is provided at an upper portion of the water supply / drainage pipe.

  The humidifier apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the intake and exhaust pipe is provided with a cleaning and / or sterilizing tank containing a cleaning liquid and / or a sterilizing liquid. About.

The invention according to claim 1 is a humidifying element including a frame, two water-absorbing films, and a water passage, wherein the frame has a shape in which a thin plate is hollowed out, and the frame is A plurality of comb blades extending from one side of the pair of opposite sides of the frame to the other side and from the other side to the one side, the two water-absorbing films, The frame is fixed to both sides of the frame so as to cover the hollow portion, and a liquid flow path is formed in the hollow portion of the frame covered with the two water-absorbing films. Since the frame is provided on the upper side and the lower side of the frame and communicates with the liquid flow path, the humidifying element can be formed with a single frame and the thickness of the humidifying element can be reduced. . Therefore, the effective membrane area per unit volume can be increased, and the humidification ability can be increased.
In addition, since the number of components of the humidifying element can be reduced, the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the manufacturing is not time-consuming.
In addition, since the water absorption film is fixed on both sides of the frame, the head pressure due to the humidifying water in the humidification element works in the direction of peeling the water absorption film on both sides of the frame and balances, and the swelling of the humidification element due to deformation of the frame Can be prevented.

According to the second aspect of the invention, the plurality of comb blades are alternately extended from both sides of the pair of opposing sides, so that the distance (area of the channel) of the liquid channel of the humidifying element is increased. The water absorption efficiency of the water flowing through the liquid flow path can be increased.
Furthermore, by providing the comb blades so as to alternately extend from both sides of the pair of opposing sides, water supplied from the water passage provided at the lower portion of the humidifying element can be more easily supplied to the upper portion of the humidifying element. it can.
In addition, by providing the comb blades so as to alternately extend from both sides of the pair of opposing sides, the water absorbing film can be more easily fixed to the frame body while securing the liquid flow path, and the shape of the water absorbing film Can be held more easily.
Further, by letting the humidifying water meander through the liquid flow path, the humidifying water can flow uniformly in the liquid flow path, and it is possible to prevent bubbles from accumulating in the liquid flow path.

  According to the invention of claim 3, the protruding lengths of the plurality of comb blades extending alternately from both sides of the pair of opposing sides are 50% or more of the length in the width direction of the frame. Therefore, the water absorption film can be more easily fixed to the frame body while securing the zigzag-shaped liquid flow path, and the effect according to claim 2 can be more easily achieved.

  According to the invention of claim 4, since the water absorbing film is paper, non-woven fabric, or cloth, the humidifying ability can be improved by increasing the water-containing ability per unit volume due to capillary action.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the head portions are respectively provided on the upper portion of one surface of the frame body and the lower portion of the other surface of the frame body, the water absorption film is further formed by the head portion. Can be easily fixed.
In addition, when the head part protrudes from the frame in the direction of the water absorption film, when a plurality of humidification elements are connected, the head part comes into contact with the frame of the adjacent humidification element, and between the water absorption films of the humidification elements. A space for passing air can be formed.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a humidifying unit including the humidifying element according to any one of the first to fifth aspects and a casing in which a plurality of the humidifying elements are stored. In the body, a plurality of humidifying elements are connected in series and / or in parallel with a gap so as to form an air passage, and a lower water passage is provided below the plurality of humidifying elements. An upper water passage is provided above the plurality of humidifying elements, and a water supply / drain port that communicates the outside of the housing with the lower water passage is provided in the housing. Since there is an intake / exhaust port that connects the outside of the body and the upper water passage, humidification water flows to the lower water passage by flowing the humidification water from the water supply / drainage port to the lower part of the humidification unit. Liquid flow path inside Elevated flows to the upper water passage, it is possible to easily fill the humidifying unit by humidifying water.
In addition, since the humidifying element according to any one of claims 1 to 5 is used, a humidifying unit having an excellent humidifying capability can be provided.
Furthermore, since the humidifying element is composed of a single frame, the size of the humidifier device can be made smaller than before when the humidifier device has a desired humidifying capacity.

According to the invention which concerns on Claim 7, It is a humidifier apparatus containing the humidification unit of Claim 6, a water supply tank, a drainage tank, and an intake / exhaust pipe | tube, Comprising: The said humidification unit, the said water supply tank, The drainage tank communicates with the lower part of the humidification unit through a water supply / drainage pipe having means for enabling a water supply operation and a drainage operation, and the intake / exhaust trough is connected to the upper part of the humidification unit, Since the fan for ventilating the ventilation path of the humidifying unit is provided, the effective membrane area per unit volume can be increased, and the humidifying capacity of the humidifier device can be increased.
In addition, since the water supply tank is communicated with the lower part of the humidification unit through a water supply / drainage pipe having a means for enabling water supply operation and drainage operation and an intake / discharge portion, water supply / drainage to the humidification element is performed easily and smoothly. be able to.
In addition, since the intake and exhaust pipes are connected to the upper part of the humidification unit, air can be extracted from the intake and exhaust pipes when humidifying water is supplied, and air can be drawn from the intake and exhaust pipes when humidifying water is drained. Water for humidification can be easily and quickly supplied to the humidification unit and drained from the humidification unit.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a circulation type humidifier device including the humidification unit according to the sixth aspect, a water supply tank, a water supply pump, and an intake pipe, wherein the water supply tank includes the humidification unit. The humidification unit and the water supply tank are provided below the unit and communicated with each other at a lower part of the humidification unit via a water supply pipe provided with a water supply pump and a drain valve that enables a water supply operation. The unit and the water supply tank communicate with each other at the upper part of the humidification unit via a drain pipe provided with the intake valve, and a fan is provided to ventilate the ventilation path of the humidification unit. The effective membrane area at the periphery can be increased, and the humidification ability of the circulation humidifier can be increased.
Since the water supply tank is communicated with the lower part of the humidification unit via the water supply pipe provided with means for enabling the water supply operation, water supply to the humidifying element can be performed easily and smoothly.
Furthermore, since the water supply pipe is provided with a drain valve, the humidifying element can be drained easily and smoothly.
In addition, since the drain pipe is connected to the upper part of the humidification unit, and this drain pipe is also connected to the water supply tank, the humidification water drained from the humidification unit can be repeatedly used as the humidification water.
In addition, since the intake valve is connected to the drain pipe, air can be introduced from the intake valve when the humidifying water is drained, and the humidifying water can be drained from the humidifying unit easily and quickly.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, since a cleaning or sterilizing tank containing a cleaning liquid or a sterilizing liquid is provided at the upper part of the water supply / drainage pipe, the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid can be easily supplied via the water supply / drainage pipe. The humidifier unit can be delivered to the humidifier unit, and the humidifier device can be easily cleaned or sterilized without requiring a complicated operation such as separately attaching a tank to the humidifier device.

  According to the invention of claim 10, since the intake / exhaust pipe is provided with a cleaning and / or sterilization tank containing a cleaning liquid and / or a sterilizing liquid, the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing tank are provided via the intake / exhaust pipe. The bacterial solution can be easily delivered to the humidification unit, and the humidifier device can be easily washed and / or sterilized without requiring a complicated operation such as separately attaching a tank to the humidifier device.

It is a schematic perspective view which shows the frame of the humidification element of this invention. It is a schematic perspective view which shows the structure of the humidification element of this invention. It is a figure which shows the humidification element of this invention, Comprising: (a) is a schematic perspective view of a humidification element, (b) is a schematic side view of a humidification element. It is a figure which shows the humidification unit using the humidification element of this invention, Comprising: (a) is a schematic perspective view of a humidification unit, (b) is a schematic perspective view which shows the structure of a humidification unit. It is explanatory drawing of the humidification unit of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the humidifier apparatus using the humidification unit of this invention, Comprising: (a) is explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a humidifier apparatus, (b) is explanatory drawing which shows the ventilation system of a humidifier apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the humidification water in the humidification element in the humidification unit of this invention, Comprising: (a) is a schematic perspective view which shows the flow of the humidification water in the liquid flow path of a humidification element, (b) is a humidification element lower part FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view showing the flow of humidifying water in FIG. 2, (c) is a schematic perspective view showing the flow of humidifying water in the upper portion of the humidifying element. It is explanatory drawing which shows the flow of the water in the humidification unit upper part water passage of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the water supply / drain to the humidification unit in the humidifier apparatus of this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation | movement which flows a washing | cleaning liquid or disinfecting liquid from the water supply / drain pipe of the humidifier apparatus of this invention, and wash | cleans or disinfects a humidifier apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation | movement which flows a washing | cleaning liquid and / or disinfection liquid from the intake / exhaust pipe of the humidifier apparatus of this invention, and wash | cleans and / or disinfects a humidifier apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the circulation type humidifier apparatus of this invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a humidifying element according to the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the frame of the humidifying element of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the configuration of the humidifying element of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the humidifying element of the present invention. ) Is a schematic perspective view of the humidifying element, and (b) is a schematic plan side view of the humidifying element.

As shown in FIG. 2, the humidifying element (1) according to the present embodiment includes a frame (2), two water absorption films (3), and a water passage opening (4).
As shown in FIG. 1, the frame (2) has a shape in which a thin plate is hollowed out, and extends from one side (21) of a pair of opposing sides of the frame (2) to the other side (22). And a plurality of comb blades (2B) extending from the other side (22) toward the one side (21).
The shape of the frame (2) has a hollow portion (25) and a comb blade (2B), and a liquid flow path (F) (see FIG. 3A) is formed in the hollow portion (25). Any shape can be used as long as it is possible, for example, any shape such as a substantially square shape or an oval shape when viewed from the front, but the moisture permeable membrane area per volume of the humidifier device (6) can be increased. It is desirable to have a substantially rectangular shape in front view.

The dimension of a frame (2) can be suitably set according to the magnitude | size of the humidifier apparatus (6) which uses the humidification element (1) which concerns on this invention.
For example, the thickness of the frame (2) is about 0.5 to 10 mm, the length (L) in the longitudinal direction is about 20 to 500 mm, and the length (W) in the width direction is about 20 to 500 mm. The thinner the frame (2), the larger the water absorbing sheet area per volume of the humidifier device and the higher the humidifying efficiency. However, if it is thinner than 0.5 mm, the pressure loss becomes too high and the humidifying element There is a concern that the element may be deformed by water pressure due to insufficient strength.
The shape of the frame (2) (that is, the humidifying element (1)) is not particularly limited, and may be any shape such as a circle, an oval, an ellipse, a triangle, a square, a rectangle, or a combination of one or more of these. It may be.

  The material of the frame (2) is not particularly limited. For example, aliphatic polyolefin such as ABS, polyethylene, polypropylene, polymethylpentene, crystalline polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, Plastics such as polycarbonate, nylon 66, nylon 6, POM, PPS, polyvinyl chloride, acrylic, polycarbonate, and metal alloy materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium can be used. Anything that is obvious to the trader can be used.

The comb blade (2B) extends from one side (21) of the pair of opposing sides of the frame (2) toward the other side (22) and from the other side (22) to one side (21). It is provided to extend toward each.
The comb blade (2B) may be provided integrally with the frame (2) or may be provided as a separate body. In the case of providing as a separate body, methods such as adhesion, heat fusion, and welding can be used.

As shown in FIG. 1, the comb blades (2B) are provided so as to alternately extend from both sides of a pair of opposing sides. By providing comb blades (2B) on the frame body (2) so as to alternately extend from both sides of a pair of opposing sides, the area of adhesion of the water absorption film (3) to the frame body (2) and the comb blade (2B) As a result, the water-absorbing film (3) can be easily and firmly adhered (or welded) to the frame (2), and the water-absorbing film (3) can be removed from the frame (2). Since the stress in the peeling direction can be dispersed, the humidifying element (1) can be used stably over a long period of time.
Moreover, the distance of the liquid flow path (F) (refer (a) of FIG. 3) of a humidification element (1) can be lengthened, and the water absorption efficiency of the water which flows through a liquid flow path (F) can be improved.
Furthermore, the comb blade (2B) was supplied from the water inlet (4) provided at the lower part of the humidifying element (1) by providing the comb blade (2B) so as to alternately extend from both sides (21, 22) of the pair of opposing sides. Humidification water can be more easily supplied (sucked up) to the top of the humidifying element (1).
The comb blade (2B) and the water-absorbing film (3) may be bonded directly or via another member by bonding or heat fusion. By adhering or heat-sealing the comb blade (2B) and the water absorbing film (3), the water absorbing film (3) is prevented from being excessively swollen by the humidifying water flowing in the liquid flow path (F) of the humidifying element (1). be able to. This eliminates the need for a stopper to prevent the humidifying element from bulging, ensures a large air flow path, minimizes the reduction in the passing air volume, and reduces the cost of the stopper, etc. it can.

The protruding length of the plurality of comb blades (2B) that alternately extend from both sides (21, 22) of the pair of opposing sides is 50% or more of the length (W) in the width direction of the frame (2). It is desirable that Adhesion of the water absorption film (3) to the frame (2) and the comb blade (2B) by setting the length (W) of the comb blade (2B) in the width direction (W) of the frame (2) to 50% or more. Since the area can be increased and the stress in the direction of peeling the water absorption film (3) out of the frame (2) can be dispersed, the humidifying element (1) can be used stably over a long period of time. can do.
The protruding length of the comb blade (2B) is most preferably a length that makes the width of the liquid flow path (F) formed by the comb blade (2B) constant. By making the width of the liquid flow path (F) constant, the water for humidification can be supplied to the humidification unit (5) more easily and stably.
The protruding lengths of the plurality of comb blades (2B) that alternately extend from both sides of the pair of opposing sides are less than 50% of the length (W) in the width direction of the frame (2) (that is, the plurality of alternately extending edges). When the length of the comb blade (2B) is such that the tip of the comb blade (2B) does not overlap, it is not preferable because the above effect cannot be achieved.
The water absorption efficiency of the humidifying water flowing through the liquid flow path (F) can be increased more easily, and the water supplied from the water passage (4) provided at the lower part of the humidifying element (1) can be more easily humidified. The upper part of (1) can be supplied.

  The comb blade (2B) preferably has a shape that tapers from both sides (21, 22) of the pair of opposing sides of the frame (2) to the protruding end of the comb blade (2B). With this shape, the water for humidification existing above the comb blade (2B) is likely to flow to the protruding end side of the comb blade (2B) due to the inclination of the surface of the comb blade (2B), so that it is difficult for water to remain during drainage.

The number of comb blades (2B) is preferably 10 to 20 on one side (21) and the other side (22). By increasing the number of comb blades (2B) to 10 to 20, the distance of the liquid flow path (F) of the humidifying element (1) is increased without greatly reducing the effective membrane area of the humidifying element (1). The water absorption efficiency of the water flowing through the liquid flow path (F) can be enhanced, and the water supplied from the water flow port (4) provided at the lower portion of the humidifying element (1) can be more easily added to the humidifying element ( It can be supplied up to the top of 1).
In addition, the adhesion area of the water absorbing film (3) to the frame (2) and the comb blade (2B) can be increased, and the stress in the direction of peeling the water absorbing film (3) out of the frame (2). Therefore, the humidifying element (1) can be used stably over a long period of time.
However, the number of the comb blades (2B) is not limited to this, and the number of the comb blades (2B) is appropriately selected depending on the dimensions of the humidifying element, and any number can be used as long as the above effect can be obtained. It may be provided.

  The material of the comb blade (2B) is not particularly limited. For example, ABS, polyethylene, polypropylene, polymethylpentene, aliphatic polyolefin such as crystalline polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polytrimethylene terephthalate, Plastics such as polycarbonate, nylon 66, nylon 6, POM, PPS, polyvinyl chloride, acrylic, polycarbonate, and metal alloy materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium can be used. Anything that is obvious to the trader can be used. The same material as the frame (2) may be used, or another material may be used.

The two water-absorbing films (3) are respectively fixed to both sides of the frame (2) so as to cover the hollow portion (25) of the frame (2).
The hollow part (25) of the frame (2) covered with the two water-absorbing films (3) serves as the liquid flow path (F).
The method for fixing the water absorbing film (3) to the frame (2) is not particularly limited, and a method of fixing the water absorbing film (3) and the water absorbing film (3) by integral molding at the time of forming the frame (2), hot melt adhesive, urethane Adhesive fixing to the frame using an adhesive such as polypropylene, polyethylene, epoxy, silicone, solvent, acrylic, etc., a method of fusing by a method such as ultrasonic fusion, high frequency fusion, heat fusion, etc. Any method obvious to the trader can be used.

The water absorption film (3) is preferably paper, non-woven fabric, cloth, or a combination thereof. By using paper, non-woven fabric, cloth, or a combination thereof for the water absorption film (3), it is possible to improve the humidifying capacity by increasing the water-containing capacity per unit volume due to capillary action.
The paper, non-woven fabric, or cloth used for the water-absorbing film (3) is not particularly limited, and can absorb water from the surface of the water-absorbing film (3) while sucking and holding humidifying water (that is, water-absorbing film). Anything having water retention property) can be used.
Examples of the paper used for the water-absorbing film (3) include water-absorbing or hydrophilic paper, and more specifically, paper made of pulp and the like. However, the paper is not limited to this and is obvious to those skilled in the art. Any material can be used as long as it can be used as a water absorbing film.
Examples of the nonwoven fabric used for the water absorption film (3) include nonwoven fabrics made of natural spun yarn such as cotton and hemp, nonwoven fabrics made of chemical fibers, and more specifically, acrylic fibers, polylactic acid, polyurethane, polyimide, fluororesin, and aramid fibers. Non-woven fabrics including, but not limited to, glass fiber, cellulose fiber, nylon fiber, vinylon fiber, polyester fiber, polyethylene fiber, polypropylene fiber, polyolefin fiber, rayon fiber, etc. Any material can be used as long as it can be used as a water-absorbing film.
Examples of the cloth used for the water-absorbing film (3) include water-absorbing or hydrophilic cloth, and more specifically, cloth knitted filament yarn containing polyester monofilament or the like (preferably a three-dimensional structure). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any material can be used as long as it is obvious to those skilled in the art and can be used as a water absorbing film.

  The water-absorbing film (3) is desirably paper, non-woven fabric, or cloth, or a combination thereof as described above, but has a waterproof and moisture-permeable function of allowing water vapor to pass through without passing liquid such as water, for example, A moisture permeable film such as a porous polymer material may be used. The moisture-permeable film is not limited to a specific one, and for example, hydrophobic such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene / hexafluoropropylene copolymer, polyvinyl fluoride, and polyvinylidene fluoride. As long as it is normally used as a waterproof and moisture permeable membrane such as a porous porous membrane and is obvious to those skilled in the art, any material can be used. Further, by combining a plurality of raw materials or adjusting the shape such as fiber length and thickness, it is possible to provide a function corresponding to the purpose and application.

Further, the water absorption film (3) may have a laminated structure. For example, a laminate of a water absorption film and a protective sheet can be used. The protective sheet can be in the form of a woven fabric, a knitted fabric, a nonwoven fabric, a net, a foamed sheet, a porous film, etc., but the woven fabric, the knitted fabric, and the nonwoven fabric are preferably used because they are excellent in reinforcing effect, flexible, and inexpensive. It is done. Moreover, as the material, resin materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, nylon, polyurethane, and polyvinyl chloride, metal, glass, and the like can be used.
When a protective sheet is used, the thickness is preferably 5 μm to 5 mm, and preferably about 10 μm to 1 mm. If the thickness is less than 5 μm, the protective function of the protective sheet is insufficient, and if it exceeds 5 mm, the thickness of the water-absorbing film increases and the humidifier becomes large.
The protective sheet may be laminated on one side of the water-absorbing film or on both sides, but it is better to use a protective sheet laminated on one side and the water-absorbing film facing the air side for better humidification efficiency. preferable. This is because when the air side is a water-absorbing film, the diffusion resistance on the air side is low, so that the water vapor that has passed through the moisture permeable film quickly diffuses into the air.

The method of laminating the protective sheet and the water absorbing film is to apply the adhesive with a roll that has a gravure pattern on the water absorbing film, and then apply the protective sheet on the roll and press it with the roll, or spray the adhesive onto the water absorbing film. Any method that is usually used and obvious to those skilled in the art, such as a method in which a protective sheet is combined and pressure-bonded with a roll, and a method in which a water-absorbing film and a protective sheet are superimposed and heat-sealed with a heat roll are used. Anything can be used.
In the case of using an adhesive, an adhesive such as urethane, polypropylene, polyethylene, epoxy, and silicone can be used, but is not limited thereto, for example, an instantaneous system, a hot melt system, a two-part room temperature curing resin system, a thermosetting Adhesives such as an adhesive resin type, an elastomer type, a thermoplastic resin type, an elastic type, and an emulsion type can also be used.
The adhesion area between the water absorption film and the protective sheet is 3 to 95%, preferably 10 to 50%. If the adhesion area is less than 3%, the adhesive strength between the water-absorbing film and the protective sheet becomes insufficient, and if it exceeds 95%, sufficient humidification performance cannot be obtained.

When a moisture-permeable film is used as the water-absorbing film (3), the higher the moisture permeability, the better, but usually 5000 to 150,000 g / m ² · day, preferably 10000 to 100000 g / m ² · day, more preferably 20000. -70,000 g / m ² · day. The measuring method of moisture permeability is based on JIS 1099-B1 method.

As shown in FIG. 1, the water inlet (4) is provided on the upper side (23) and the lower side (24) of the frame (2), and the liquid channel (F) (see FIG. 3 (a)). ).
As shown in FIG. 2, the head portion (4H) is fixed to an upper portion of one surface of the frame (2) and a lower portion of the other surface of the frame (2) (FIG. 3 (a)). reference). Moreover, it is desirable that the head portion (4H) is thicker than the frame (2).
Thus, by providing the head portion (4H) on the upper portion of one surface of the frame body (2) and the lower portion of the other surface of the frame body (2), the head portion (4H) becomes a spacer, When a plurality of humidifying elements (1) are arranged in series, the distance between adjacent humidifying elements (1) can be determined, and a ventilation path (P) can be formed between the humidifying elements (1) ( (See FIG. 5).
The head portion (4H) is desirably provided as a separate body from the frame (2). By making it a separate body, the distance between the elements (that is, the width of the ventilation path (P)) can be set to a desired distance by changing the thickness of the head portion (4H).
Furthermore, by providing the head portion (4H), it is possible to reinforce the frame body (2) (particularly in the vicinity of the water passage (4)).

A water inlet (4) is provided in the lower part of the frame (2), and a water supply tank (7) to be described later is arranged at a position higher than the humidifying element (1), so that humidifying water is supplied to the lower part of the humidifying element (1). When supplied, the water for humidification flows into the liquid flow path (F) from the water inlet (4) provided at the lower part of the humidification element (1) by the head pressure (head), and rises in the liquid flow path (F). (I.e., the supplied humidifying water reaches the top of the humidifying element (1)).
When draining the humidifying water, the water inlet (4) is provided in the lower part of the frame (2), so that the humidifying water is easily provided in the lower part of the frame (2) by its own weight. It can be discharged from (4).

As described above, since the humidifying element (1) according to the present invention is composed of one frame (2), the thickness is made thinner than the conventional humidifying element composed of two frames. Can do. Therefore, when the humidifying element (1) according to the present invention is used for a humidifying unit, when the humidifying unit has the same outer dimensions, or when the same number of elements is installed in the humidifying unit, A ventilation path can be formed wider than the conventional humidification element comprised from two frames.
Furthermore, the humidifying element (1) according to the present invention does not have an outer rib structure (that is, a rib structure provided outside the frame body in order to fix the water absorption film from the outside of the frame body), and is humidified. Since there are few protrusions in the thickness direction of the element (1), the ventilation path can be formed wider than a conventional humidifying element having an outer rib structure.

Hereinafter, a suitable embodiment of a humidification unit (5) using a humidification element (1) concerning the present invention is described, referring to an accompanying drawing.
FIG. 4 is a view showing a humidification unit using the humidification element of the present invention, in which (a) is a schematic perspective view of the humidification unit, and (b) is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of the humidification unit. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the humidifying unit of the present invention.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the humidifying unit (5) according to the present invention includes a humidifying element (1) according to the present invention, a housing including a tray portion (5T) and a side portion (5S). Body (5C).
More specifically, in the casing (5C), a plurality of humidifying elements (1) are arranged in series (that is, in the thickness direction of the humidifying element (1)) while being spaced apart so as to form a ventilation path (P). ) And / or in parallel (that is, in the width direction of the humidifying element (1)), a lower water passage (CL) is provided below the plurality of humidifying elements (1). An upper water passage (CU) is provided above the humidifying element (1) (see FIG. 5).
The side part (5S) of the housing (5C) has a water supply / drain port (51) for communicating the outside of the housing (5C) and the lower water passage (CL), or the outside of the housing (5C) and the upper water passage ( An intake / exhaust port (52) that communicates with CU) is provided (see FIG. 5).
The lower water passage (CL) and the upper water passage (CU) are formed by connecting the water passage ports (4) of the connected humidifying elements (1).
The tray portion (5T) is provided above and below the humidifying element in order to fix the plurality of humidifying elements (1). The side portion (5S) is connected to the inside of the housing (5C) in order to fix the plurality of humidifying elements (1) and to provide the above-described water supply / drain ports (51) and intake / exhaust ports (52). Are attached to the humidifying elements (1) at both ends of the humidifying element (1).
The dimension of the humidifying unit (5) is not particularly limited, and a plurality of humidifying elements (1) are connected (that is, in the humidifying elements adjacent to each other in the thickness direction, the head portion of one humidifying element and the frame of the other humidifying element) As long as it is a size that can be stored in a fixed (adhered / adhered) state (for example, a size that allows 120 humidifying elements (1) to be connected and stored). Also good.

As shown to (a) of FIG. 4, although the humidification unit (5) is exhibiting the substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, it is not limited to this, For example, the humidification element (inside a substantially cube shape etc.) provided in the humidification unit (5) ( According to the shape of 1) and the installation location of the humidification unit (5), the desired shape and dimensions can be obtained. As mentioned above, it goes without saying that the shape of the humidifying element (1) is not limited to a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the front, but may be a shape other than this.
For example, the dimension of the humidifying unit (5) is a dimension that allows two humidifying elements (1) to be installed in the width direction, and a dimension that allows five humidifying elements (1) to be installed in the thickness direction. Thus, two humidifying elements (1) can be provided in parallel and five in series, with a ventilation interval.

Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of a humidifier device (6) using a humidifying unit according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory view of a humidifier device using the humidifying unit of the present invention, where (a) is an explanatory view showing the configuration of the humidifier device, and (b) is an explanatory view showing a blower system of the humidifier device. It is.

As shown to (a) and (b) of FIG. 6, the humidifier apparatus (6) which concerns on this embodiment is a humidification unit (5), a water supply tank (7), a drainage tank (8), and an intake / exhaust pipe. (9).
More specifically, the humidifying unit (5), the water supply tank (7), and the drainage tank (8) are provided with means (10) for enabling the water supply operation and means (11) for enabling the drainage operation. Via the water supply / drain pipe (12), the lower part of the humidification unit (5) (ie, the water supply / discharge port (51)) communicates with each other, and the upper part of the humidification unit (5) (ie, the intake / exhaust port (52)) The fan (13) for ventilating to the ventilation path (P) of a humidification unit (5) is provided with the coffin (9) connected.
In addition to the above-described configuration, the humidifier device (6) according to the present embodiment is generally used for a humidifier device (especially a vaporizing humidifier device), and any device that is obvious to those skilled in the art can be used. Can also be included in the configuration.

As shown in FIG. 6 (a), the humidifying unit (5) and the humidifying unit (5) are connected via the water supply pipe (12) provided with the means (10) enabling the water supply operation and the means (11) enabling the water discharge operation. The water supply tank (7) and the drainage tank (8) communicate with each other at the lower part of the humidification unit (5) (that is, the water supply / drainage port (51)).
Since the water supply / drainage pipe (12) includes means (10) for enabling water supply operation and means (11) for enabling water discharge operation, water supply operation and drainage from the water supply tank (7) can be performed manually or automatically. The draining operation to the tank (8) can be easily switched.
The means (10) for enabling the water supply operation and the means (11) for enabling the drainage operation are, for example, those that automatically open and close such as electromagnetic valves and motorized valves, or those that open and close manually. Any material can be used as long as it is usually used for water supply and drainage pipes and the like and is obvious to those skilled in the art.

As shown in FIG. 6 (a), an intake / exhaust rod (9) is connected to the upper portion of the humidifying unit (5).
The intake / exhaust pipe (9) is connected to the intake / exhaust port (52) of the humidification unit (5).
When the intake / exhaust pipe (9) is connected to the intake / exhaust port (52) of the humidification unit (5), the humidification unit (5) is supplied when the humidification water is supplied from the water supply tank (7) to the humidification unit (5). The inside air can be discharged from the intake / exhaust pipe (9), and the humidifying water can be easily and rapidly supplied into the humidifying unit (5).
In addition, when the intake / exhaust pipe (9) is connected to the intake / exhaust port (52) of the humidification unit (5), the humidification water supplied to the humidification unit (5) is discharged to the drain tank (8). In addition, air can be supplied (intake) into the humidification unit (5) from the intake / exhaust pipe (9), and humidification water can be easily and quickly discharged from the humidification unit (5).

The water supply tank (7) is connected to the water supply / drain pipe (12) and is provided above the humidification unit (5). By providing the water supply tank (7) above the humidification unit (5), it is possible to supply humidification water from the water supply / drain port (51) into the humidification unit (5) without using a motor or the like due to the weight of the water. it can.
In addition, by providing the water supply tank (7) above the humidification unit (5), by supplying humidification water from the water supply / drain port (51) into the humidification unit (5), the lower water passage (CL) is provided. The inflowing humidifying water rises in the humidifying element (1) through the liquid flow path (F) from the water inlet (4) provided in the lower portion of the humidifying element (1) by the head pressure (that is, supplied). The humidifying water reaches the upper part of the humidifying element (1)), passes through the water passage opening (4) provided at the upper part of the humidifying element (1), reaches the upper water passage (CU), and enters the humidifying unit (5). Can be met.
That is, by providing the water supply tank (7) above the humidification unit (5), the water for humidification can be raised to the same height as the water level in the water supply tank (7) by the head pressure. Thereby, without using a motor, an electric pump, etc., the inside of a humidification unit (5) can be always filled with humidification water. Further, since the humidifying water is constantly supplied up to the same water level as the water level in the water supply tank (7) due to the water head pressure, the humidifying water can be continuously supplied by the amount of the humidifying water reduced by the humidifying operation. it can.

The material, dimensions, etc. of the water supply tank (7) are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the size and installation location of the humidifier device (6), and are normally used as a water supply tank, and are obvious to those skilled in the art. Anything can be used.
The water used as the humidifying water may be tap water, but any water such as distilled water or natural water such as well water can be used as long as it does not cause any problems in the humidifier unit (6) even if supplied to the humidifying unit. It may be used.
Moreover, a water supply tank (7) can also be installed below a humidification unit (5) by using a motor, an electric pump, etc. (refer FIG. 12).

The drainage tank (8) is connected to the water supply / drainage pipe (12) and is provided below the humidification unit (5). By providing the drain tank (8) below the humidification unit (5), the humidification water in the humidification unit (5) is discharged to the drain tank (8) without using a motor or an electric pump due to its own weight. be able to.
The material, dimensions, etc. of the drainage tank (8) are not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected according to the size and installation location of the humidifier device (6), and are usually used as a drainage tank, and are obvious to those skilled in the art. Anything can be used.

The water supply / drainage pipe (12) may be provided as separate members, such as a water supply pipe (not shown) and a drainage pipe (not shown).
That is, the humidification unit (5) and the water supply tank (7) are connected via a water supply pipe and a water supply port (not shown) provided with means for enabling a water supply operation (for example, a drain pipe provided with a valve). The humidifier unit (5) communicates with the lower portion of the humidifier unit (5), and the humidifier unit (5) and the drainage tank (8) have a drain pipe and a drain provided with means (for example, a drain pipe having a valve) that enables a drain operation. You may communicate in the lower part of a humidification unit (5) through the exit (not shown), respectively.
In this case, it is desirable that the water supply pipe is provided above the humidification unit (5) rather than the drain pipe. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any arrangement is possible as long as it can supply and drain water to the humidification unit (5). May be.

As shown in FIG. 6B, the fan (13) is provided at, for example, the lower part of the front surface of the humidifying unit (5). The air supplied from the front surface of the humidification unit (5) is humidified including the water vapor of the humidification water absorbed by the water absorption film (3) when passing through the ventilation path (P) between the humidification elements (1). The humidified air passes through the ventilation path (P) as it is and passes to the back of the humidification unit (5). In addition, the arrow in FIG.6 (b) shows the flow of the air supplied by the fan (13).
Moreover, you may provide the duct for ventilation | gas_flowing in the front surface and / or back surface of a humidification unit (5). The shape of the duct or the like is not particularly limited, and any duct may be used as long as it can supply humidified air to the outside of the humidifying unit (5).
In addition, the arrangement | positioning location of a fan (13) is not specifically limited, Air can be ventilated to the ventilation path (P) of a humidification unit (5), and the water for humidification which the water absorption film (3) absorbed into the ventilated air Any arrangement may be used as long as the air is humidified by adding water vapor and the humidified air can be supplied to the outside of the humidifier device (6).
The type of the fan (13) used in the humidifier device (6) according to the present embodiment is not particularly limited. For example, a humidifier device such as a sirocco fan, a centrifugal blower, an axial blower, a mixed flow blower, a cross flow blower, or the like. Any material may be used as long as it is usually used in the field and is obvious to those skilled in the art.
Moreover, the air supply method by the fan (13) is not particularly limited, and air can be supplied to the humidification unit (5) such as a blowing method or a suction method, and the humidified air can be supplied to the outside of the humidification unit (5). Any thing can be used.

Hereinafter, the humidification unit (5) and the flow of humidification water and air in the humidification element (1) connected to the humidification unit (5) will be described.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory view showing the flow of humidifying water in the humidifying element in the humidifying unit of the present invention, wherein (a) is a schematic perspective view showing the flow of humidifying water in the liquid flow path of the humidifying element, and (b). Is a schematic perspective view showing the flow of humidification water in the lower part of the humidification element, (c) is a schematic perspective view showing the flow of humidification water in the upper part of the humidification element. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of humidifying water in the upper portion of the humidifying unit of the present invention.

The flow of the humidifying water when supplying the humidifying water to the humidifying unit (5) will be described.
Humidification water supplied from the water supply tank (7) is supplied from the water supply / drain port (51) of the humidification unit (5) into the humidification unit (5), flows into the lower water passage (CL), and is supplied to the humidification element by water head pressure. (1) is supplied into the liquid flow path (F) from the water flow opening (4) provided in the lower part of the liquid flow path (F) (FIG. 6 (a), FIG. 7 (a) and (See (b)). When the humidification water reaches the upper end of the liquid flow path (F), the humidification water is supplied to the upper water flow path (CU) from the water flow opening (4) provided at the upper part of the humidification element (1), and the upper water flow path (CU) The humidification water is supplied to the intake / exhaust pipe (9) from the intake / exhaust port (52) communicating with the intake / exhaust port (see FIGS. 6 (a), 7 (c) and 8). In addition, the arrow in FIG.7 and FIG.8 has shown the flow of the water for humidification.

The flow of the humidifying water when the humidifying water is discharged from the humidifying unit (5) will be described.
The humidifying water is discharged to the drain tank (8) by operating the means (11) that enables the drain operation. The water for humidification supplied to the intake / exhaust pipe (9) is discharged from the intake / exhaust port (52) to the upper water passage (CU), and the water passage provided at the upper portion of the humidifying element (1) from the upper water passage (CU). It passes through (4) and is discharged to the liquid flow path (F) (see (c) of FIG. 7). Further, the water for humidification descends the liquid flow path (F), is discharged from the water flow port (4) provided at the lower part of the humidification element (1) to the lower water flow path (CL), and is humidified from the lower water flow path (CL). It passes through the water supply / drain port (51) of the unit (5), and is discharged from the water supply / drainage pipe (12) to the drainage tank (8) (see FIGS. 7A and 7B).

Next, the operation | movement regarding water supply / drainage of the humidification unit (5) which concerns on this invention is demonstrated.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of water supply / drainage to the humidification unit in the humidifier device of the present invention.

(A) of FIG. 9 is a figure which shows a mode (namely, unit dry) that the water for humidification is not supplied at all to the humidification unit (5) which concerns on this invention. This state in which no humidifying water is supplied to the humidifying unit (5) is, for example, a state at the start of operation of the humidifier or during an air cleaning operation.
In the state of FIG. 9 (a), the means (10) for enabling the water supply operation is operated to connect the water supply tank (7) and the humidifying unit (5), so that it is shown in FIG. 9 (b). As described above, the humidifying water is supplied from the water supply / drain port (51) of the humidification unit (5) to the lower water passage (CL) of the humidification unit (5) through the water supply / drain pipe (12). (B) in FIG. 9 shows that the water for humidification supplied to the lower water passage (CL) enters the liquid flow path (F) from the water inlet (4) provided at the lower part of the humidifying element (1) by the head pressure. A state in which the liquid flow path (F) is rising is shown. At this time, the air in the humidifying unit (5) is pushed out to the humidifying water supplied into the humidifying unit (5), but the pushed out air is discharged from the intake / exhaust pipe (9) to the outside of the humidifier device. Water supply is performed smoothly.
When the humidifying water is further supplied to the humidifying unit (5) from the state of FIG. 9B, the humidifying unit (5) is filled with the humidifying water as shown in FIG. Unit wet). Finally, the humidifying water reaches the intake / exhaust pipe (9) and becomes the same water level as the humidifying water level in the water supply tank (7).
During the humidification operation, the state shown in (c) of FIG. 9 is maintained, and air is supplied to the ventilation path (P) formed between the humidification elements (1), so that water is absorbed by the water absorption film (3). Air is humidified by the humidifying water.

Next, the operation | movement which drains the humidification water in a humidification unit (5) from the state of (c) of FIG. 9 is demonstrated.
First, the means (10) enabling the water supply operation is operated to shut off the water supply tank (7) and the humidification unit (5). Subsequently, the drainage tank (8) is connected to the humidification unit (5) by operating the means (11) that enables the drainage operation. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 9 (d), the humidifying water supplied to the humidifying unit (5) is discharged by its own weight through the water supply / drain pipe (12) to the drain tank (8).
(D) of FIG. 9 has shown a mode that the humidification water is discharged | emitted by the drainage tank (8), and the humidification water supplied to the humidification unit (5) is the liquid flow path ( F) shows a descending state. At this time, the air outside the humidifier unit (6) flows into the humidifying unit (5) through the intake / exhaust pipe (9) so that the humidifying water is smoothly discharged. .
When the humidifying water in the humidifying unit (5) is completely discharged, the state returns to the state shown in FIG. In addition, the arrow in FIG. 9 shows the flow of humidification water.

Next, an example of the cleaning (disinfecting) function of the humidifier device (6) according to the present invention will be described.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an operation of washing or sterilizing the humidifier device by flowing a cleaning solution or a sterilizing solution from the water supply / drain pipe of the humidifier device of the present invention.

In an example of the cleaning (disinfecting) operation of the humidifier device (6) shown in FIG. 10, a cleaning or disinfecting tank (14) containing a cleaning liquid or a disinfecting liquid is provided above the humidifying unit (5).
The cleaning or sterilization tank (14) is provided above the water supply / drainage pipe (12) and communicates with the water supply / drainage pipe (12), and is a means (15) (15) that enables the supply of the cleaning liquid or the sterilization liquid. For example, the supply to the humidification unit (5) is controlled by a drain pipe provided with a valve.
(A) of FIG. 10 shows a state where the humidifying water and the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid are not supplied to the humidifying unit (5) (that is, unit dry). In an example of the cleaning (disinfecting) function, the cleaning liquid or the disinfecting liquid is supplied to the humidifying unit (5) in a unit dry state.
By operating the means (15) that enables the supply of the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid from the state of FIG. 10 (a), the cleaning or sterilizing tank (14) and the humidification unit (5) are communicated with each other, thereby Alternatively, the sterilizing liquid is supplied from the water supply / drain port (51) to the lower water passage (CL) of the humidification unit (5) through the water supply / drain pipe (12). The cleaning liquid or sterilizing liquid supplied to the lower water passage (CL) enters the liquid flow path (F) from the water flow opening (4) of the humidifying element (1) by the water head pressure, and ascends the liquid flow path (F). The inside of the humidifying unit (5) is filled with a cleaning liquid or a sterilizing liquid. Finally, as shown in FIG. 10B, the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid reaches the intake / exhaust pipe (9), and the same water level as the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid in the cleaning or sterilizing tank (14). It becomes.

After the humidification unit (5) is filled with the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid for a certain period of time (for example, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1 hour or more), the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid is added to the humidifying unit ( Eject from 5). The cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid is discharged according to the following procedure.
First, the cleaning or sterilization tank (14) and the humidification unit (5) are shut off by operating the means (15) that enables the supply of the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid. Subsequently, the drainage tank (8) is connected to the humidification unit (5) by operating the means (11) that enables the drainage operation. Thereby, the washing | cleaning liquid or disinfection liquid supplied to the humidification unit (5) is discharged | emitted by the dead weight to a drainage tank (8) through a water supply / drain pipe (12).
In addition, when it is desired to completely remove the cleaning liquid or the sterilizing liquid remaining in the humidifying unit (5), rinsing by supplying / draining humidifying water may be performed as necessary.
Thus, the humidifier device (6) can be easily and quickly maintained by providing the humidifier device (6) with the cleaning or sanitizing tank (14). According to this washing (disinfecting) operation, the inside of the humidifying unit (5) can be placed with a washing solution or a disinfecting solution. Therefore, adhesion (deposition) of calcium or the like derived from humidification water, which is difficult to remove by pouring, can be removed.
Further, by providing a timer or the like in the humidifier device (6), the humidification unit (5) can be easily washed or sterilized at an arbitrary timing.
In addition, a cleaning or sterilization tank (14) is provided outside the humidifier device (6), and cleaning or sterilization is performed by supplying a cleaning liquid or a sterilizing liquid to the humidifying unit (5) using an electric pump or the like. May be.

Next, another example of the cleaning (disinfecting) function of the humidifier device (6) according to the present invention will be described.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing the operation of cleaning and / or sterilizing the humidifier device by flowing the cleaning solution and / or the sterilizing solution from the intake / exhaust pipe of the humidifier device of the present invention.

In another example of the cleaning (disinfecting) operation of the humidifier device (6) shown in FIG. 11, the cleaning and / or disinfecting tank (16) containing the cleaning liquid and / or the disinfecting liquid is used as the humidifying unit (5). It is provided above. The cleaning and / or sterilization tank (16) is in communication with the intake / exhaust pipe (9), and means (17) (for example, water supply provided with a valve) that enables supply of the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid. The supply to the humidification unit (5) is controlled by a pipe or the like.
(A) of FIG. 11 has shown the mode that humidification operation is carried out in the state (namely, unit wet) with which the humidification unit (5) is satisfy | filled with the water for humidification. In another example of the cleaning (sterilization) operation, the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid are supplied to the humidification unit (5) in a unit wet state.
From the state of FIG. 11 (a), the means (10) for operating the water supply operation is operated to stop the supply of the humidifying water, and the means (17) for enabling the supply of the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid is provided. By operating the cleaning and / or sterilization tank (16) and the humidification unit (5) to communicate with each other, the cleaning solution and / or the sterilizing solution are supplied to the intake and exhaust pipe (9) as shown in FIG. Supplied.

Since the humidifier device (6) is performing a humidifying operation, the humidifying water in the humidifying unit (5) evaporates from the ventilation path (P), and the amount of humidifying water in the humidifying unit (5) decreases. Therefore, the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid supplied to the intake / exhaust pipe (9) pass through the upper portion of the humidification unit (5) from the intake / exhaust port (52) as the humidification water in the humidification unit (5) decreases. The cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid supplied to the water channel (CU) and supplied to the upper water channel (CU) enter the liquid channel (F) from the water flow port (4) of the humidifying element (1), and the liquid flow The path (F) is lowered (see (c) of FIG. 11).
By continuing the humidification operation in the state of FIG. 11 (c), the amount of humidification water in the humidification unit (5) further decreases, and the humidification water in the humidification unit (5) The liquid is completely replaced (see (d) of FIG. 11). Thus, the humidifying unit (5) can be filled uniformly with the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid by gradually replacing the humidifying water with the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid while performing the humidifying operation. According to this cleaning (disinfecting) operation, the cleaning liquid and / or the disinfecting liquid can be supplied to the humidifying unit (5) in a flowing manner. Therefore, this cleaning (sterilization) operation can be suitably used for a cleaning liquid and / or a sterilizing liquid, such as hypochlorous acid water, which is more effective when used in a pouring method than a soaking.

After the inside of the humidifying unit (5) is completely replaced with the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid, the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid is discharged from the humidifying unit (5). The washing liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid are discharged according to the following procedure.
First, the drainage tank (8) and the humidification unit (5) are made to communicate with each other by operating the means (11) that enables the drainage operation. Thereby, the washing | cleaning liquid and / or disinfection liquid which were supplied to the humidification unit (5) are discharged | emitted by the dead weight to a drainage tank (8) through a water supply / drain pipe (12).
In addition, when it is desired to completely remove the cleaning liquid and / or the sterilizing liquid remaining in the humidifying unit (5), rinsing with humidifying water supply / drainage may be performed as necessary.
Thus, by providing the humidifier device (6) with the cleaning and / or sterilization tank (16), the humidifier device (6) can be easily and quickly maintained.
Further, by providing a timer or the like in the humidifier device (6), the humidification unit (5) can be easily washed and / or sterilized at an arbitrary timing.

As washing water for washing the humidifying unit (5) according to the present invention, any water can be used as long as it is usually used for washing a vaporizing humidifier device such as citric acid.
As sterilizing water for sterilizing the humidification unit (5) according to the present invention, it is usually used for sterilization of vaporizing humidifier devices such as electrolytic hyponitrous water, hypochlorous acid water, peracetic acid water, and the like. Anything can be used.

Next, a modification of the humidifier device according to the present invention will be described. More specifically, this modification relates to a humidifier device that circulates humidification water between a water supply tank and a humidification unit.
FIG. 12 is an explanatory view showing a circulation type humidifier device of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 12, the circulation type humidifier device (6) according to the present invention includes a humidification unit (5), a water supply tank (7), a water supply pump (18), and an intake valve (21). .
More specifically, the water supply tank (7) is provided below the humidification unit (5), and the humidification unit (5) and the water supply tank (7) enable a water supply operation and a water supply pump (18) and a drain valve. The lower part of the humidification unit (5) (that is, the water supply / drainage port (51)) is communicated via a water supply pipe (20) provided with (19), and the humidification unit (5) and the water supply tank (7) are connected to the intake valve. In order to communicate with the upper part of the humidification unit (5) (that is, the intake / exhaust port (52)) through the drain pipe (22) provided with (21) and to ventilate the ventilation path (P) of the humidification unit (5). The fan (13) is provided.
In addition to the above-described configuration, the humidifier device (6) according to the present embodiment is generally used for a humidifier device (especially a vaporizing humidifier device), and any device that is obvious to those skilled in the art can be used. Can also be included in the configuration.

As shown in FIG. 12, the water supply tank (7) and the humidification unit (5) are communicated with each other at the lower part of the humidification unit (that is, the water supply / discharge port (51)) via the water supply pipe (20).
The water supply pipe (20) is provided with a water supply pump (18). The water supply pump (18) pumps up the water for humidification in the water supply tank (7), and supplies the water for humidification into the humidification unit (5). Is done. As described above, in the humidifier device (6) according to the present embodiment, since the water supply pump (18) is used for supplying the humidifying water into the humidifying unit (5), it is necessary to use the head pressure for supplying the humidifying water. Therefore, the positional limitation of providing the water supply tank (7) above the humidification unit (5) can be eliminated.
It is desirable that the water supply tank (7) is provided with a supply port (not shown) for supplying humidification water so that the humidification water reduced by the humidification operation can be easily supplied.
The material, dimensions, etc. of the water supply tank (7) are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the size and installation location of the humidifier device (6), and are normally used as a water supply tank, and are obvious to those skilled in the art. Anything can be used.

The amount of humidification water supplied by the water supply pump (18) may be larger than the amount of humidification water evaporation in the humidification unit (5) during the humidification operation.
The water supply pump (18) is usually used for supplying water to a humidifier device such as a small pressure tank control method, a large pressure tank control method, a pressure increase direct connection method, a rotation speed control method, a constant pressure method, etc. Anything obvious can be used.

The water supply pipe (20) is provided with a drain valve (19), and the humidifying water discharged from the drain valve (19) is discharged to the water supply tank (7). By providing the drain valve (19) in the water supply pipe (20), the water for humidification in the humidification unit (5) can be discharged easily and quickly.
The drain valve (19) is usually used for drainage or the like, such as a solenoid valve or an electrically operated valve that opens and closes automatically, or a valve that manually opens and closes, and is obvious to those skilled in the art. Anything can be used.

As shown in FIG. 12, the humidification unit (5) and the water supply tank (7) are connected to the upper part of the humidification unit (5) (that is, the intake / exhaust port (22) via the drain pipe (22) provided with the intake valve (21). 52)).
Thereby, the water for humidification supplied from the lower part of the humidification unit is discharged to the water supply tank (7) through the drain pipe (22) connected to the upper part of the humidification unit (5). Therefore, the humidifying water in the water supply tank (7) can be used repeatedly for humidification.
The intake valve (21) is provided in the drain pipe (22).
Thus, when the humidifying water supplied into the humidifying unit (5) is discharged to the water supply tank (7) through the drain valve (19), the air is introduced into the humidifying unit (5) from the intake valve (21). The humidifying water can be easily and quickly discharged from the humidification unit (5).
The intake valve (21) is normally used for intake and the like, such as those that are automatically opened and closed such as electromagnetic valves and motorized valves, or those that are manually opened and closed, and are obvious to those skilled in the art. Anything can be used.

A fan (13) is provided in the lower front part of a humidification unit (5), for example. The air supplied from the front surface of the humidification unit (5) is humidified including the water vapor of the humidification water absorbed by the water absorption film (3) when passing through the ventilation path (P) between the humidification elements (1). The humidified air passes through the ventilation path (P) as it is and passes to the back of the humidification unit (5).
Moreover, you may provide the duct for ventilation | gas_flowing in the front surface and / or back surface of a humidification unit (5). The shape of the duct or the like is not particularly limited, and any duct may be used as long as it can supply humidified air to the outside of the humidifying unit (5).
In addition, the arrangement | positioning location of a fan (13) is not specifically limited, Air can be ventilated to the ventilation path (P) of a humidification unit (5), and the water for humidification which the water absorption film (3) absorbed into the ventilated air Any arrangement may be used as long as the air is humidified by adding water vapor and the humidified air can be supplied to the outside of the humidifier device (6).
The type of the fan (13) used in the humidifier device (6) according to the present embodiment is not particularly limited. For example, a humidifier device such as a sirocco fan, a centrifugal blower, an axial blower, a mixed flow blower, a cross flow blower, or the like. Any material may be used as long as it is usually used in the field and is obvious to those skilled in the art.
Moreover, the air supply method by the fan (13) is not particularly limited, and air can be supplied to the humidification unit (5) such as a blowing method or a suction method, and the humidified air can be supplied to the outside of the humidification unit (5). Any thing can be used.

The humidifier device () according to the present embodiment can circulate humidification water between the water supply tank (7) and the humidification unit (5) by having the above-described configuration.
The amount of evaporation of the humidifying water in the humidifying unit (5) varies depending on the conditions of the outside air. Therefore, the supply amount (i.e., circulation amount) of the humidifying water by the feed water pump (18) may be appropriately changed manually or automatically according to the fluctuation of the evaporation amount of the humidifying water in the humidifying unit (5). When changing the supply amount of humidification water, for example, it is conceivable to measure the condition of the outside air using a humidity sensor or the like and change the supply amount based on this.

A humidifying element according to the present invention is a humidifying element including a frame, two water absorbing films, and a water passage, wherein the frame has a shape in which a thin plate is hollowed out. A plurality of comb blades extending from one side to the other side of the pair of opposing sides of the frame and from the other side to the one side, and the two water-absorbing films are the frame The frame is fixed to both sides of the frame so as to cover the hollow portion of the body, and a liquid flow path is formed in the hollow portion of the frame covered with the two water-absorbing films. Since it is provided on the upper side and the lower side of the frame and communicates with the liquid flow path, the humidifying element can be formed with one frame, and the thickness of the humidifying element can be reduced. Therefore, the effective membrane area per unit volume can be increased, and the humidification ability can be increased.
In addition, since the number of components of the humidifying element can be reduced, the manufacturing cost can be reduced, and the manufacturing is not time-consuming.
In addition, since the water absorption film is fixed on both sides of the frame, the head pressure due to the humidifying water in the humidification element works in the direction of peeling the water absorption film on both sides of the frame and balances, and the swelling of the humidification element due to deformation of the frame Can be prevented.
Therefore, the humidifying element according to the present invention can be used as a constituent element of a humidifier device, for example.
In addition, the humidifier device using the humidifying element according to the present invention can be used as a humidifier device used in a space having any volume from a relatively narrow space such as a home to a wide space such as a tenant building. it can.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Humidification element 2 Frame 21 One side 22 The other side 23 Upper side 24 Lower side 25 Lower part 2B Comb blade 3 Water absorption film 4 Water inlet 4H Head part 5 Humidification unit 51 Water supply / drain port 52 Air intake / exhaust port 5C Body 6 Humidifier device 7 Water supply tank 8 Drain tank 9 Intake / exhaust pipe 10 Means for enabling water supply operation 11 Means for enabling drainage operation 12 Water supply / drain pipe 13 Fan 14 Cleaning or disinfection tank 16 containing cleaning liquid or disinfecting liquid Cleaning liquid Washing and / or sterilization tank 18 containing sterilization liquid 18 Water supply pump 19 Drain valve 20 Water supply pipe 21 Intake valve 22 Drain pipe CL Lower water flow path CU Upper water flow path F Liquid flow path L Longitudinal length P Ventilation path W Length in width direction

Claims (10)

A humidifying element including a frame, two water absorption films, and a water passage,
The frame body has a shape in which a thin plate is hollowed out,
The frame includes a plurality of comb blades extending from one side of the pair of opposing sides of the frame to the other side and from the other side to the one side, respectively.
The two water-absorbing films are respectively fixed to both sides of the frame so as to cover the hollow portion of the frame,
A liquid flow path is formed in the hollow portion of the frame covered with the two water absorption films,
The humidifying element according to claim 1, wherein the water flow port is provided on an upper side and a lower side of the frame body and communicates with the liquid flow path.   The humidifying element according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of comb blades alternately extend from both sides of the pair of opposing sides.   The protrusion length of the plurality of comb blades extending alternately from both sides of the pair of opposing sides is 50% or more of the length in the width direction of the frame body, according to claim 2, The humidifying element described.   The humidifying element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the water absorption film is paper, non-woven fabric, or cloth.   The humidification according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein head portions are respectively provided on an upper portion of one surface of the frame body and on a lower portion of the other surface of the frame body. element. The humidifying element according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
A humidifying unit including a housing in which a plurality of the humidifying elements are stored,
In the housing, the plurality of humidifying elements are connected in series and / or in parallel with a gap so as to form a ventilation path,
A lower water passage is provided below the plurality of humidifying elements,
An upper water passage is provided above the plurality of humidifying elements,
The housing is provided with a water supply / drain port for communicating the outside of the housing with the lower water passage,
The humidification unit according to claim 1, wherein the casing is provided with an intake / exhaust port for communicating the outside of the casing with the upper water passage. A humidifier device comprising the humidification unit according to claim 6, a water supply tank, a drainage tank, and an intake / exhaust pipe,
The humidification unit, the water supply tank, and the drainage tank are communicated with each other at the lower part of the humidification unit via a water supply / drainage pipe having means for enabling a water supply operation and a drainage operation,
The intake / exhaust soot is connected to the upper portion of the humidifying unit,
A humidifier device, wherein a fan for ventilating the ventilation path of the humidifying unit is provided. A circulation type humidifier device including the humidification unit according to claim 6, a water supply tank, a water supply pump, and an intake valve,
The water supply tank is provided below the humidification unit,
The humidification unit and the water supply tank are communicated with each other at a lower portion of the humidification unit through a water supply pipe having a water supply operation and the water supply pump and a drain valve.
The humidification unit and the water supply tank are communicated with each other at an upper portion of the humidification unit through a drain pipe provided with the intake tank.
A humidifier device, wherein a fan for ventilating the ventilation path of the humidifying unit is provided.   The humidifier device according to claim 7, wherein a cleaning or sterilizing tank including a cleaning liquid or a sterilizing liquid is provided in an upper portion of the water supply / drain pipe.   The humidifier device according to claim 7, wherein the intake and exhaust pipe is provided with a cleaning and / or sterilization tank containing a cleaning liquid and / or a sterilizing liquid.