WO2017216968A1

WO2017216968A1 - Humidification element, humidification device, air conditioner, and ventilation device

Info

Publication number: WO2017216968A1
Application number: PCT/JP2016/068166
Authority: WO
Inventors: 秀和平井; 亀石　圭司; 勝高田
Original assignee: 三菱電機株式会社
Priority date: 2016-06-17
Filing date: 2016-06-17
Publication date: 2017-12-21
Also published as: CN109312943A; CN109312943B; JPWO2017216968A1; JP6636148B2

Abstract

A humidification element, provided with a plurality of humidifiers arranged along a first direction so that gaps are provided therebetween, a water storage tank (12) which is provided above the humidifiers and which stores water, and a channel (100) provided above the humidifiers so as to enable passage of water. A plurality of water injection holes for dripping water are formed on the bottom surface of the water storage tank (12). The channel (100) has inlets (101) communicating to the interior of the water storage tank (12), and outlets (102) for draining water passing through the channel (100). The inlets (101) and the outlets (102) are provided so as to be set away from each other in the first direction. The outlets (102) are formed at positions lower than the inlets (101) when the water storage tank (12) is disposed horizontally.

Description

Humidifier, humidifier, air conditioner and ventilator

The present invention relates to a humidifying element, a humidifier, an air conditioner, and a ventilator that generate humidified air.

Equipment that generates humidified air includes natural evaporation, electric heating, water spray, and ultrasonic. The natural evaporation type tends to have a smaller humidifying capacity than other types. The electric heating type tends to have a higher running cost than other methods. The water spray type has a lower humidification efficiency than other methods and tends to be large in size. The ultrasonic type tends to have a higher initial cost than other types. In addition, the life of the device is short, and the bacteria in water and the fine powder of calcium carbonate tend to scatter.

In such circumstances, the natural evaporation type humidifier is useful for use in a place that is operated for a long time because it can easily reduce the running cost as compared with other methods. Moreover, improvement is also progressing about the humidification capability mentioned above as a problem.

There are various forms of natural evaporating humidifiers. Among them, there is little change in the humidifying capacity over time, and there is a “drip-type” humidifier suitable for long-term use. The drop-type humidifier is used for commercial humidifiers such as air conditioners. Tend to be.

As a humidifier using a drip-type humidification system, the humidifier is an evaporation member that absorbs and evaporates water, and a water storage tank provided above the humidifier, and water is supplied to the humidifier from the bottom of the water tank. Patent Document 1 discloses a humidifying element that drops water.

Japanese Patent No. 5485791

In the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1, by providing an inclination on the bottom surface of the water storage tank, even when the humidifying element itself is inclined, water is evenly supplied to the humidifier. However, the water supplied to each humidifier is affected by gravity and flows downward. That is, the amount of water flowing through the humidifying body at a high position due to the inclination is smaller than the amount of water flowing through the humidifying body at a low position due to the inclination.

In this case, since the amount of evaporation from each humidifying body is limited, water that has flowed excessively to the humidifying body at a low position flows down from the humidifying body without evaporating. Moreover, in the humidifier in a high position, the amount of flowing water decreases, so that the humidification amount decreases. Therefore, when the humidifying element is provided at an inclination, there is a problem that the humidifying performance of the humidifying element is deteriorated.

In addition, there is a possibility that water that has not evaporated by the humidifier at a low slope is blown off from the surface of the humidifier and scattered in the room.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and provides a humidifying element capable of maintaining humidification performance and suppressing scattering of water into a room even when arranged at an inclination. With the goal.

In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention is provided above a humidifier and a plurality of humidifiers arranged along the first direction so as to provide a gap between them. A water storage tank that stores water and a flow path that is provided above the humidifier and that allows water to pass therethrough. A plurality of water injection holes for dripping water are formed on the bottom surface of the water storage tank, and the flow path includes an inflow port communicating with the inside of the water storage tank, and an outflow port for discharging water passing through the flow path. The inflow port and the outflow port are spaced apart from each other in the first direction, and the outflow port is formed at a position lower than the inflow port in a state where the water storage tank is horizontally disposed.

The humidifying element according to the present invention has an effect that it is possible to maintain the humidifying performance and suppress the scattering of water into the room even when it is disposed at an inclination.

The block diagram of the humidification apparatus concerning Embodiment 1 of this invention. The figure which expanded the humidification element with which the humidification apparatus concerning Embodiment 1 is provided. The perspective view of the humidification element in Embodiment 1 The disassembled perspective view of the humidification element in Embodiment 1 Front view of the humidifying element in the first embodiment Sectional view along the line XX of the humidifying element shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the humidifying element shown in FIG. 6 taken along the line ZZ and is an enlarged view of the water storage tank. It is the figure which expanded the water injection hole part of the water storage tank in Embodiment 1, Comprising: The figure which looked at the water storage tank from the downward direction The perspective view of the peripheral part of the water storage tank in Embodiment 1 The top view which looked at the water storage tank in Embodiment 1 from upper direction Sectional view along the line WW of the water tank shown in FIG. Sectional drawing which shows an example of the peripheral part of the water storage tank in Embodiment 1 The figure which shows the water storage tank periphery in Embodiment 1 in the cross section along the ZZ line shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the periphery of the water storage tank in the first embodiment in a cross section along the line WW shown in FIG. 10, and shows a state where the water storage tank is installed at an inclination. The figure which shows the other example of the water tank shown in FIG. The figure which expanded the water storage tank of the sectional view along the ZZ line shown in FIG. Schematic diagram of the water tank shown in FIG. The top view which looked at the water storage tank in Embodiment 2 of this invention from the upper direction Sectional view along the VV line of the water storage tank shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a water storage tank portion of a humidifying element according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, corresponding to a cross-sectional view taken along the line ZZ shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a humidifying element according to Embodiment 3, corresponding to a cross-sectional view taken along the line WW shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a water storage tank portion of a humidifying element according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, corresponding to a cross-sectional view along the line ZZ shown in FIG. Sectional drawing of the water storage tank in the modification of Embodiment 4 FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a water storage tank portion of a humidifying element according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, corresponding to a cross-sectional view taken along the line ZZ shown in FIG. The figure which shows the water storage tank concerning the modification of Embodiment 5.

Hereinafter, a humidifying element, a humidifier, an air conditioner, and a ventilator according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a humidifying device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. A humidifying element 2 is incorporated in the humidifying device 1. A blower 5 is incorporated on the upper side or lower side of the humidifying element 2 to send indoor air into the humidifying element 1 and blow it out into the room again.

The humidifying device 1 is connected to a humidifying element 2, a water supply pipe 3 that is connected to a water supply source such as a water supply facility and supplies humidifying water to the humidifying element 2, and water remaining without being humidified by the humidifying element 2 to the outside. A drain pipe 4 to be discharged and a blower 5 that allows the air flow to pass through the humidifying element 2 are provided. Further, the humidifying device 1 includes a control device 6 that operates the blower 5 and a water supply valve 3a that is an electromagnetic valve of a water supply system, and a drain pan 7 that receives drainage and drains it to the outside.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the humidifying element 2 provided in the humidifying apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. One or more humidifying elements 2 are directly installed on the drain pan 7. The ridge corners on both sides of the top structure of each humidifying element 2 are detachably held by guide rails (not shown) mounted on the partition wall and the front inner wall surface of the main body box. The humidifying element 2 is connected to a water supply system having a water supply valve 3 a for supplying and shutting off water for humidification, and a drain pipe 4 is connected to the drain pan 7.

The water supply system for supplying humidifying water to the humidifying element 2 includes a water supply valve 3a for adjusting the pressure and flow rate of water supplied to the humidifying element 2, a strainer for preventing dust from entering the water supply system, and water supply for water supply. It is configured as a water channel including the pipe 3. It is desirable that all connection portions of the water supply system except for the connection portion with the water supply source side are concentrated in the drain pan 7.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the humidifying element 2 in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the humidifying element 2 in the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a front view of the humidifying element 2 in the first embodiment. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the humidifying element shown in FIG. 5 taken along line XX. The humidifying element 2 includes a large number of plate-like humidifiers 20 arranged along a first direction which is a direction indicated by an arrow Y in FIGS. 4 and 5 so as to provide a gap between them. As shown in FIG. 6, a diffusion member 30 is in contact with the upper portion of the humidifying body 20. The diffusion member 30 is formed so as to extend along the first direction, and the plurality of humidifiers 20 come into contact with the single diffusion member 30 together.

As shown in FIG. 6, above the humidifying body 20, there are a water storage tank 12 for storing water to be supplied to the humidifying body 20 and a water supply port 11 for injecting water from the water supply pipe 3 into the water storage tank 12. Further, below the humidifying body 20, there are a drainage section 13 and a drain outlet 13a for receiving and draining water remaining from the humidifying body 20 without being humidified. The humidifier 20 is housed and fixed inside the casing 10.

As shown in FIG. 4, the water supply port 11 and the drainage part 13 are formed in the casing 10. The casing 10 is formed with a structural wall 14 that connects a water storage tank 12 as an upper structure and a drainage section 13 as a lower structure.

The casing 10 is formed by injection molding using a thermoplastic plastic including ABS resin, PS resin, and PP resin. The casing 10 is divided into two parts, a casing 10a and a casing 10b. The humidifier 20 is sandwiched between the casing 10a and the casing 10b, and the engaging portion 15 of the casing 10a and the casing 10b is combined so that the casing 10a and the casing 10b are integrated.

The casing 10a and the casing 10b are respectively provided with a portion serving as a drain port 13a and an opening 10c for introducing humidified air into the humidifying body 20. Further, the casing 10 b is provided with a water supply port 11 for supplying water to the water storage tank 12. A storage space for storing the humidifying body 20 is provided inside the casing 10.

A portion of the casing 10 that comes into contact with the humidifying body 20 is provided with a positioning projection 10d for regulating the position of the humidifying body 20. Since the humidifying body 20 softens when it contains water and deforms due to the weight of the water, the flow between the humidifying bodies 20 is restricted by regulating the position of the humidifying body 20 at the outer peripheral portion of the humidifying body 20 in contact with the casing 10. The dimension of the path can be secured and air can flow uniformly.

Thereby, a decrease in the pressure loss of the humidifying element 2 is suppressed, and the entire surface of the humidifying body 20 is effectively used as a humidifying surface. Therefore, an effect of increasing the amount of humidification can be expected as compared with the case where the humidifying body 20 is distorted. .

The water supply port 11 is provided above the humidifying element 2 and on the upper surface side of the humidifying body 20 in order to supply water to the water storage tank 12. The shape of the water supply port 11 may be a shape that matches the water supply pipe 3, and may be formed with a convex band or tied with a hose band so that it does not easily come off. The position of the water supply port 11 is not limited as long as it is a structure that can supply water from the upper part of the humidifying body 20, but considering the case where water leaks from the joint between the water supply pipe 3 and the water supply port 11, It is desirable to arrange on the windward side. By doing in this way, the water leaked from the joint between the water supply pipe 3 and the water supply port 11 rides on the airflow, is guided to the leeward side, that is, the humidifying element 2 side, and is absorbed by the humidifying element 20. The scattering of water to the leeward side of 2 can be reduced.

When the amount of water supply is excessive with respect to the humidification amount, the amount that flows from the drainage part 13 without being humidified increases and the amount of useless water increases, so the water supply port 11 is provided with a mechanism for reducing the amount of water. It is desirable to adjust the flow rate. A mechanism for reducing the amount of water is, for example, the orifice section 40 shown in FIG. When adjusting the flow rate, it is necessary to supply a flow rate larger than the maximum humidification amount of the humidifying element 2. The orifice portion 40 only needs to be capable of adjusting the flow rate, and there is no functional problem even if the amount of water is adjusted using a metal mesh or a porous material.

As shown in FIG. 6, the water tank 12 is provided above the diffusion member 30. A plurality of water injection holes 12 a for dropping water to the diffusion member 30 are formed on the bottom surface of the water storage tank 12. The water storage tank 12 and the diffusion member 30 are combined as an integral part, and the integral part is sandwiched and held between the casing 10a and the casing 10b. Further, a water level detection sensor 8 that detects the water level of the water storage tank 12 may be installed in the water storage tank 12. The detected water level may be fed back to control the opening / closing of the water supply valve 3a by the control device 6 shown in FIG.

The diffusion member 30 is formed of a porous plate material. In order to absorb the water dripped from the water storage tank 12 and send the water to the humidifier 20, the surface of the material is more hydrophilic as much as possible, so that the permeability is good and the flow rate through which the water can flow increases. Moreover, since the diffusing member 30 is always in contact with water, it is desirable that the diffusing member 30 be formed of a material that is not easily deteriorated by water. The diffusion member 30 formed of a material that is not easily deteriorated by water includes a porous plate made of polyester such as PET resin, PP resin, or cellulose, and is made of titanium, copper, or stainless steel. A porous plate obtained. Further, in order to increase the hydrophilicity of the material surface, the diffusing member 30 may be subjected to a hydrophilic treatment.

The humidifier 20 is formed of a porous plate material like the diffusion member 30. Suitable conditions are the same as those of the diffusing member 30, and the same material as that of the diffusing member 30 may be used. However, if a material having better water absorption than the diffusing member 30 is used for the humidifying body 20, the humidifying body 20 absorbs water before the diffusing member 30 absorbs water and the water is sufficiently diffused therein. The uniformity of water supply to the camera may be reduced. In such a case, measures can be taken by increasing the vertical dimension of the diffusing member 30. In addition, when there is a dimensional restriction in the height direction of the entire humidifying element 2, a restriction is imposed on the vertical dimension of the diffusing member 30. Thus, it is desirable that the size of the diffusing member 30 in the vertical direction can be reduced.

A convex part 21 is provided on the surface of the humidifier 20. The convex portion 21 can maintain the interval between the humidifying bodies 20. The convex portion 21 is formed by pressing a jig or the like against the humidifying body 20 and plastically deforming the portion. By alternately arranging two types of humidifying bodies 20 having different arrangement positions of the convex portions 21 on the humidifying body 20, there is a function of keeping the interval between the humidifying bodies 20 constant. In addition, the humidification body 20 should just keep the space | interval constant along a 1st direction, and meshes the humidification body 20 with the comb which the notch for the plate | board thickness of the humidification body 20 entered in the regular space | interval. A structure in which the interval is maintained may be used, or a structure in which the interval is maintained by stacking the humidified bodies 20 formed in a wave shape in a honeycomb shape may be employed.

The lower end of the diffusing member 30 and the upper end of the humidifying body 20 are partly in contact with each other. If the diffusing member 30 and the humidifying body 20 are in contact with each other, water flows down due to the action of the capillary force of the humidifying body 20, but taking into account variations during assembly and the effects of vibration during transportation, You may connect so that a lower end and the upper end of the humidification body 20 may be inserted mutually.

Note that the diffusion member 30 uniformly distributes water dripping from the water storage tank 12 positioned above in the first direction, that is, uniformly to the plurality of humidifiers 20 arranged side by side in the first direction. Is provided to supply. Therefore, when the plurality of humidifiers 20 are integrated and water can be diffused in the first direction between the plurality of humidifiers 20, the humidifier 20 itself has the same water diffusion function as the diffusion member 30. Will have. In this case, a configuration in which water is dropped directly from the water storage tank 12 to the humidifier 20 without using the diffusion member 30 may be used.

Next, the structure of the water storage tank 12 will be described in detail. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the humidifying element 2 shown in FIG. 6 taken along the line ZZ, and is an enlarged view of the water storage tank 12. A plurality of water injection holes 12 a are formed on the bottom surface of the water storage tank 12. The plurality of water injection holes 12a are in the same plane, and are formed so that all the water injection holes 12a are arranged horizontally when the humidifying device 1 and the humidifying element 2 are installed horizontally. A cylindrical wall surface 12 b extending downward from the water injection hole 12 a is formed on the outside of the water storage tank 12. The tip end of the cylindrical wall surface 12 b contacts the diffusing member 30. A space corresponding to the height of the cylindrical wall surface 12 b is provided between the upper surface of the diffusion member 30 and the outside of the water storage tank 12.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the water injection hole 12a portion of the water storage tank 12 according to Embodiment 1, and is a view of the water storage tank 12 viewed from below. A notch 12c is formed at the tip of the cylindrical wall surface 12b.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the peripheral portion of the water storage tank 12 in the first embodiment. On the outer wall of the water storage tank 12, a communication flow path 100 that is two flow paths extending from the water storage tank 12 is formed. Each communication channel 100 is formed with an inflow port 101 that communicates with the inside of the water storage tank 12 and an outflow port 102 that allows water that passes through the communication channel 100 to flow out. The water storage tank 12 and the communication channel 100 are integrally formed of, for example, resin. The communication channel 100 is a channel for guiding water overflowing from the water storage tank 12 to the diffusion member 30.

The flow channel structure of the communication flow channel 100 will be described. Attention is paid to one communication channel 100 formed on the back side of the water storage tank 12 shown in FIG. The outflow port 102 is formed at a position opposite to the inflow port 101 across the water storage tank 12. Further, the outlet 102 is formed at a position below the inlet 101 in a state where the water storage tank 12 is horizontally disposed. The communication channel 100 is inclined from the inlet 101 toward the outlet 102 in the state where the water storage tank 12 is horizontally disposed. Accordingly, the outlet 102 formed on the right side in FIG. 9 is connected to the communication channel 100 formed on the back side of the water storage tank 12 and the inlet 101 formed on the left side. In FIG. 9, the inflow port 101 formed on the right side is connected to the communication channel 100 formed on the front side of the water storage tank 12 and the outflow port 102 hidden behind the water storage tank 12 on the left side.

In other words, the outlet 102 formed on the right side in FIG. 9 is not connected to the inlet 101 formed on the right side, but is a separate communication channel 100. Taking FIG. 7 as an example, the inflow port 101 and the outflow port 102 that are formed side by side on the right side of FIG.

The cross-sectional shape of the communication channel 100 shown in FIG. 7 is formed by a U-shaped opening having an open top. The communication channel 100 only needs to be able to flow water, and may be formed in a cylindrical shape. In the case of opening, there is an advantage that the flow path is easy to mold and the water in the flow path is easy to dry and excellent in hygiene. In the case of a pipe formed in a cylindrical shape, there are advantages that the degree of freedom of the piping path is high and the flow rate can be easily adjusted by changing the inner diameter of the pipe.

When the communication channel 100 is formed by opening, the cross-sectional shape may be a trapezoidal shape or a semicircular shape instead of the U shape. In the trapezoidal shape and the semicircular shape, the width of the communication channel 100 is widened to obtain the same cross-sectional area. The trapezoidal or semicircular communication channel 100 can have a shorter wetting edge length than the U-shaped communication channel 100 under the same cross-sectional area. Thereby, the flow resistance in the communication channel 100 can be reduced. The cross-sectional area of the flow path portion between the inflow port 101 and the outflow port 102 is such that the water flowing in from the inflow port 101 can flow without leaking out of the flow path. It is formed larger than.

As shown in FIG. 7, the communication channel 100 is formed outside the outer wall of the water storage tank 12. The communication channel 100 only needs to allow water to flow, and may be formed inside the outer wall of the water storage tank 12 or may be formed at a position away from the outer wall of the water storage tank 12.

FIG. 10 is a top view of the water storage tank 12 according to the first embodiment as viewed from above. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line WW of the water tank 12 shown in FIG. The broken-line arrows shown in the drawing represent a flow path when water flows in the communication channel 100. The communication channel 100 from the inflow port 101 to the outflow port 102 is formed with a smooth slope having a constant slope. If there are irregularities in the middle of the flow path, it is not preferable because water accumulates and there is a risk that bacteria and mold will adhere and grow. The gradient α [°] of the communication channel 100 in a state where the water storage tank 12 is horizontally disposed is relative to the maximum allowable inclination angle (maximum allowable gradient) β _MAX [°] in design of the water storage tank 12. The following relationship is established.
α> β _MAX (1)

As shown in FIG. 7, the inflow port 101 is positioned lower than the upper end of the outer wall of the water storage tank 12 and from the upper end of the communication flow path 100 so that water overflowing from the water storage tank 12 is introduced into the communication flow path 100. Is also formed at a lower position. Further, in the water tank 12 in a state where the water tank 12 is horizontally installed at a position higher than the upper end of the water injection hole 12a so that water does not flow into the communication channel 100 until the water overflows from the water tank 12. When a specified amount of water is supplied to the water tank 12, it is provided above the water level where the dropping flow rate of the water injection hole 12 a and the supply flow rate to the water storage tank 12 are balanced and balanced. The water level in which the dropping flow rate and the supply flow rate are balanced and balanced will be described later.

When the inlet 101 cannot be provided on the upper surface of the outer wall of the water tank 12, an opening may be provided at a position lower than the outer wall of the water tank 12, and this opening may be used as the inlet 101. The inflow port 101 needs to be sufficiently wide so that the water overflowing from the water storage tank 12 can be reliably guided into the communication channel 100. It is desirable to make it at least larger than the diameter of the water injection hole 12a.

As shown in FIG. 10, the inflow port 101 is provided at a location that is susceptible to a change in the water level accumulated in the water tank 12 when the water tank 12 is inclined. As in the first embodiment, when the water storage tank 12 is viewed from above, the shape has a longitudinal direction and a short side direction, for example, a rectangular shape, and is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outer wall of the water storage tank 12. It is attached to a flat surface. In the first embodiment, the longitudinal direction matches the first direction.

As shown in FIG. 7, the outlet 102 is located immediately above the diffusion member 30. The outflow port 102 only needs to be able to supply the water flowing through the communication channel 100 to the diffusion member 30, and may be configured to be located on the side surface of the diffusion member 30 and supply water from the side. The outlet 102 is provided on the end side in the longitudinal direction of the diffusing member 30. By forming the position of the outlet 102 with respect to the diffusing member 30 in this way, when the diffusing member 30 is inclined, the water flowing out from the outlet 102 can be supplied above the inclination of the diffusing member 30. The cross-sectional area of the outlet 102 is formed larger than that of the communication channel 100 so that water flowing through the inlet 101 and the communication channel 100 can flow without leaking out of the communication channel 100.

As described above, two communication channels 100 are formed in the water tank 12 shown in FIG. Therefore, two inlets 101 and two outlets 102 are provided. The two inlets 101 provided in the water storage tank 12 are separately arranged at positions separating the water storage tank 12 with respect to the first direction. The two inflow ports 101 are provided at the same height from the bottom surface of the water storage tank 12.

In the first embodiment, two communication channels 100 extending in the longitudinal direction of the water storage tank 12 are provided, but communication channels extending in the short direction of the water storage tank 12 may be provided. The number of the communication channels 100 may be one, or three or more.

Next, a series of water flows from the water supply port 11 to the humidifier 20 will be described. A constant flow rate of water controlled by the water supply valve 3a is supplied to the water supply port 11. The water flowing in from the water supply port 11 flows into the water storage tank 12. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the peripheral portion of the water storage tank 12 in the first embodiment. The water that has flowed into the water storage tank 12 drops from a plurality of water injection holes 12 a on the bottom surface of the water storage tank 12, travels through the cylindrical wall surface 12 b having the notches 12 c, and is absorbed by the diffusion member 30. The water absorbed by the diffusion member 30 flows down while spreading inside the diffusion member 30 and reaches the lower end of the diffusion member 30.

Since the lower end of the diffusion member 30 and the upper end of the humidifying body 20 are in contact with each other, the water that has flowed down is transmitted to the humidifying body 20 from the contact portion by the action of the capillary force of the humidifying body 20 and flows down. Water spreads inside the humidifying body 20, penetrates the entire humidifying body 20, flows down, and drops from the lower end of the humidifying body 20. Excess water that has not evaporated in the humidifier 20 flows out of the casing 10 from the lower drainage 13. At this time, moisture is taken away from the surface of the humidifying body 20 by the air ventilated between the humidifying bodies 20 and is exhausted from the humidifying element 2 as humidified air. For this reason, the flow rate dripped and drained from the lower end of the humidifier 20 is the amount of water obtained by subtracting the amount of water taken from the humidifier 20 as humidified air from the amount of water supplied from the water supply port 11.

In this series of flows, the relationship between the water level stored in the water storage tank 12 and the water injection hole 12a will be described. There is a flow resistance when water is passed through the water injection hole 12a. There is the following relationship between the water head pressure Pi applied to the inlet of one water injection hole 12a (the head difference from the inlet of the water injection hole 12a to the height of the water level) and the flow rate Qi passing through the water injection hole 12a.
Qi = Ci × Ai × √ (2 × Pi / ρ) (2)
In the above equation, Ci is a coefficient depending on the shape or the like of the water injection hole, Ai is the cross-sectional area of the water injection hole, ρ is the density of water, and i is a subscript representing the number when there are a plurality of water injection holes.

Briefly, if the shape of the water injection hole 12a is constant, the higher the water level stored in the water storage tank 12, the higher the water head pressure Pi applied to the inlet of the water injection hole 12a, and the water injection hole 12a in proportion to the square root thereof. The flow rate Qi flowing through increases. When N water injection holes 12a are provided in the water storage tank 12, the total Qout of the flow rate dropped from the water injection hole 12a is expressed by the following equation.
Qout = Q1 + Q2 + Q3 + ... Qi + ... + Qn (3)

That is, the coefficient C depending on the shape of the water injection hole 12a, the cross-sectional area A of the water injection hole, and the inlet of the water injection hole 12a so that all the water supply flow rate Qin supplied from the water supply port 11 to the water storage tank 12 can be dripped from the water injection hole 12a. By determining the water head pressure P and the number of water injection holes 12a, the water supplied to the water storage tank 12 can be dripped from the water injection hole 12a to the diffusion member 30 without overflowing the water storage tank 12.

When the humidifying device 1 and the humidifying element 2 are installed horizontally, all the water injection holes 12a are formed so as to be arranged horizontally. This state is also referred to as a state where the water storage tank 12 is disposed horizontally. When the humidifier 1 and the humidifying element 2 are installed horizontally, the water level in the water storage tank 12 is parallel to the water injection hole 12a, and the water head pressure Pi applied to the inlet of the water injection hole 12a in the above formula (2) is all. The water injection holes 12a are equal. That is, the flow rate Qi dropped from the water injection hole 12a is uniform in all the water injection holes 12a, and the supply water flowing through the diffusion member 30 and the humidifying body 20 can be made to flow uniformly in the first direction.

Next, stop of the humidification operation when humidification becomes unnecessary such as at night will be explained. For example, when the living room is unattended and humidification is unnecessary, such as at night, the humidifying operation of the humidifying device 1 may be stopped. Here, it is not preferable for hygiene to leave the humidifying element 2 in a wet state for a long time. When bacteria and mold in the air adhere to the wet part and grow, there is a concern that when the humidification operation is restarted, the bacteria and mold spores are transported by the air passing through the surface of the humidifying element 2 and released into the room. is there. As a method for suppressing the growth of such bacteria and molds, it is effective to dry the humidifying element 2 as soon as possible.

From this point of view, when the humidifier 1 is stopped, it is preferable to perform control to dry the humidifying element 2 by operating the blower 5 after closing the water supply valve 3a under the control of the control device 6. Here, in order to shorten the drying time of the humidifying element 2, it is necessary to dry the inside of the water storage tank 12 at an early stage. However, the water storage tank 12 is difficult to ventilate and dry because of its concave shape. Therefore, after the water supply valve 3a is closed, it is important that the water in the water storage tank 12 quickly flows out toward the diffusion member 30.

The bottom surface inside the water storage tank 12 shown in FIG. 12 is inclined so as to be lowest at the water injection hole 12a. Therefore, after the water supply valve 3a is closed, the water in the water tank 12 continues to drip due to the water head pressure Pi applied to the inlet of the water injection hole 12a. Further, when the water head pressure Pi applied to the inlet of the water injection hole 12a is as close to zero as possible, the water in the water storage tank 12 is smoothly absorbed by the capillary force of the diffusion member 30 brought into contact with the water injection hole 12a. Therefore, the water in the water tank 12 flows out through the diffusion member 30 and can be quickly dried in the water tank 12.

Thus, by using a container having an open top for the water storage tank 12, it is possible to ensure hygiene inside the water tank when the humidifying element 2 is not used for a long period of time. Further, compared to a water supply method in which the water injection hole 12a is formed by a closed container and water is dropped, a sealing member or the like is unnecessary, the structure can be simplified, and the humidifying element 2 that is inexpensive and has high long-term reliability is provided. Can do.

Next, the secular change of the water tank 12 will be described. When hardness components in the water supply and evaporation residues such as silica and iron rust accumulate over time in the water injection hole 12a, the water injection hole cross-sectional area Ai in the above formula (2) becomes small. If the water supply flow rate to the water storage tank 12 is constant, the water head pressure Pi applied to the inlet of the water injection hole 12a increases. That is, the water level in the water tank 12 rises. In this case, since all the water supply can be dripped from the water injection hole 12a up to the upper limit of the outer wall of the water storage tank 12, it is desirable that the water storage tank 12 be a container as deep as possible. However, an upper limit value exists in the allowable amount of increase in the water level, that is, the depth of the water storage tank 12 due to restrictions on the dimensions of the water storage tank 12 and the casing 10.

When the evaporation residue or dust enters the water injection hole 12a, the water level in the water storage tank 12 rises as described above. Since the inflow port 101 is located at a position lower than the outer wall of the water storage tank 12, when the water level rises and the water is about to overflow inside the water storage tank 12, the water flows into the inflow port 101. The water that has flowed into the inflow port 101 flows through the communication channel 100 and flows down from the outflow port 102 to the diffusion member 30. That is, the communication channel 100 functions as an auxiliary channel when the water injection hole 12a becomes difficult to pass water.

Next, a case where the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is installed at an inclination will be described. According to said structure, when the humidification apparatus 1 and the humidification element 2 are installed horizontally, the flow volume dripped from the water injection hole 12a becomes uniform in all the water injection holes 12a. However, in reality, it is not necessarily installed horizontally.

For example, in a ceiling-embedded humidifier, when the humidifier 1 is installed using metal fittings on anchor bolts embedded in the ceiling, the humidifier may be installed slightly inclined from the horizontal. Further, when the humidifying element 2 is removed by inspection or the like, it may be attached with a slight inclination when it is installed again. Therefore, even when the humidifying device 1 and the humidifying element 2 are installed in an inclined state, it is desirable that water is uniformly diffused in the humidifying body 20 so that there is no difference between the humidifying performance at the time of horizontal and at the time of inclination. .

Next, a detailed flow of water in the communication channel 100 when the humidifying device 1 and the humidifying element 2 are arranged to be inclined will be described in detail.

FIG. 13 is a view showing the periphery of the water storage tank 12 in the first embodiment in a cross section along the line ZZ shown in FIG. The water storage tank 12 is inclined by β [°] so that the right side in the figure becomes lower. Moreover, the state just before water overflows from the water storage tank 12 is represented. In this case, the water overflowing from the water storage tank 12 tries to flow into the inflow port 101. Of the two inflow ports 101, the inflow port 101 located on the lower side due to the inclination, that is, on the right side in the drawing. It flows into the inflow port 101 located.

14 is a view showing the periphery of the water storage tank 12 in Embodiment 1 in a cross section along the line WW shown in FIG. 10, and is a view showing a state in which the water storage tank 12 is installed inclined. . FIG. 14 is inclined by β [°] so that the right side in the figure becomes lower, as in FIG. 13. FIG. 14 illustrates a state in which water (broken arrows in the figure) flowing in from the inflow port 101 flows through the communication channel 100, the diffusion member 30, and the humidifier 20. Since the gradient α satisfies the relationship expressed by the above formula (1), the water flowing into the communication channel 100 from the inflow port 101 flows toward the outflow port 102 along the inclination of the communication channel 100. By tilting the water storage tank 12, water is supplied to the diffusion member 30 from the outlet 102 at a high position.

As shown in FIG. 14, the outlet 102 is provided on the end side in the longitudinal direction of the diffusion member 30. Water permeates above the slope of the diffusing member 30. The water that has permeated the diffusing member 30 flows downward in the diffusing member 30 along the inclination, and thereby permeates the humidifying body 20 in order from the higher position side to the lower position.

That is, even when the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is inclined, the water overflowing from the low position of the water storage tank 12 can be supplied to the high position of the diffusion member 30, and water is supplied to the entire humidifying body 20. can do.

For example, when the water overflowing from the low position of the inclined water storage tank 12 flows downward as it is, the overflowing water is supplied to the low position of the diffusion member 30. In this case, the water that has permeated the low position of the diffusing member 30 is less likely to spread to a high position due to the influence of gravity. Therefore, the water supplied to the diffusing member 30 is concentrated and transmitted to the humidifying body 20 immediately below the portion where the diffusing member 30 is at a low position. When water is concentrated on some of the humidifiers 20, the water floats on the surface of the humidifiers 20, and the water rides on the wind and scatters and may leak out of the product. Moreover, since water is not sufficiently supplied to the humidifying body 20 at a high position, the humidifying performance is deteriorated.

On the other hand, according to the first embodiment, the water overflowing from the low position of the water storage tank 12 can be supplied to the portion where the diffusion member 30 is at a high position in the communication channel 100. Thereby, the supply of water to the entire humidifier 20 can be made uniform using gravity. In addition, it is possible to suppress the scattering of water and the decrease in the humidification performance due to the concentration of water on some humidifiers 20. If the inflow port 101 and the outflow port 102 are formed apart from each other in the first direction, when the water storage tank 12 is inclined in the direction shown in FIG. Can do.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing another example of the water tank 12 shown in FIG. The inflow port 101 only needs to be able to guide water into the communication channel 100. When the lateral length of the water storage tank 12 (width of the water storage tank 12) is short, the inflow port 101 may be provided on the end side of the surface parallel to the longitudinal direction on the outer wall of the water storage tank 12. In this case, the inflow port 101 may be provided close to a surface perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outer wall of the water storage tank 12.

Next, the effect of the installation position of the inlet 101 on the flow rate flowing through the water injection hole 12a will be described in detail. First, the flow of water flowing through the water injection hole 12a when the humidifier 1 or the humidifying element 2 is installed at an inclination will be described.

When the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is installed with an inclination, the water head pressure P applied to the inlet of the water injection hole 12a is different for each water injection hole 12a. That is, the flow rate flowing out from the water injection hole 12a positioned on the highest side compared to the other water injection holes 12a due to the inclination is higher than the flow rate flowing out from the water injection hole 12a positioned relatively lower than the water injection hole 12a. Less. For example, when the head pressure at the inlet of the water injection hole 12a is ½ of the original, the flow rate is reduced to about 70%. As described above, when the flow rate dropped from the water injection hole 12a is uneven due to the inclination, the flow rate flowing through the diffusion member 30 and the humidifying body 20 provided downstream is also uneven.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of the water storage tank 12 in a cross-sectional view taken along the line ZZ shown in FIG. The flow rate supplied from the water supply port 11 to the water storage tank 12 is controlled to be constant by the water supply valve 3a, and the flow rate at that time is Q0. The supplied flow rate and the flow rate dropped from the water injection hole 12a are balanced, and the water storage tank 12 is maintained at a constant water level. The balance line of the water level when the water storage tank 12 is horizontal at this time is represented by a straight line A in the figure, and the balance of the water level when the right side in the figure is inclined at the maximum allowable gradient β _MAX [°] so as to be lowered. The line is represented by a straight line B.

FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of the water tank 12 shown in FIG. A straight line A (broken line) in FIG. 17 represents a horizontal balance line of the water level as in FIG. Moreover, while the straight line B in FIG. 16 represents a case where only the right side in the figure is inclined, the broken line B (two-dot chain line) in FIG. It represents the maximum balanced water level when it is inclined at the maximum allowable gradient β _MAX [°]. It is assumed that the flow rate supplied to the water storage tank 12 is controlled to be constant at the flow rate Q0, as in FIG.

Suppose that the inlet 101 is provided below the straight line A in FIG. In such an arrangement, even when the designed flow rate Q0 is supplied and the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is installed horizontally, water flows through the inflow port 101 to the communication channel 100. That is, since the flow rate that should be able to be dropped uniformly from the water injection hole 12a flows to the communication channel 100, the arrangement of the inlet 101 is not preferable.

Next, consider a case where the inlet 101 is provided above the straight line A and below the broken line B. If the designed flow rate Q0 is supplied to the water storage tank 12, water drops only from the water injection hole when horizontal. On the other hand, when the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is installed with an inclination equal to or less than the maximum allowable gradient, depending on the position of the inflow port 101, water can be allowed to flow through the communication channel 100. When water flows through the communication channel 100, the water can be supplied to a portion at a high position of the inclined diffusion member 30. Therefore, by arranging the inflow port 101 above the straight line A and below the broken line B, it is inclined to a portion at a high position of the diffusion member 30 where the dripping amount of the water injection hole 12a is relatively reduced due to the inclination. Water can be directly supplied by using the communication channel 100 through which water flows only.

Next, consider a case where the inlet 101 is provided above the polygonal line B. If the flow rate Q0 is supplied to the water storage tank 12 and the inclination of the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is equal to or less than the maximum allowable gradient, water does not flow into the communication channel 100. However, as described above, when the water injection hole 12 a is blocked due to aging, the water level in the water storage tank 12 rises, and the water flows through the inlet 101 to the communication channel 100. Therefore, when the inflow port 101 is arranged in this way, the communication channel 100 can be used as an emergency flow rate securing means such as blocking the water injection hole 12a.

In the first embodiment, the inflow port 101 is provided above the straight line A as described above. That is, the inflow port 101 is always positioned above the water level balance position when the water storage tank 12 is installed horizontally and water is dripping from the water injection hole 12a. By arranging the inflow port 101 in this way, only the water overflowing from the water storage tank 12 can be flowed to the communication channel 100 without impairing the flow rate dropped from the water injection port 12a.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
FIG. 18 is a top view of the water storage tank 12 according to the second embodiment of the present invention as viewed from above. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV of the water storage tank 12 shown in FIG. Since the second embodiment has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment except that the shape of the communication channel 100 is different, the description of the part having the same configuration is omitted.

18 and 19, in addition to the outlet 102 provided at the end, a plurality of outlets 103 are provided on the bottom surface of the communication channel 100. Thereby, water can be dripped at the diffusing member 30 from a plurality of locations. Therefore, the distribution of the flow rate supplied to the diffusing member 30 can be adjusted more precisely than in the first embodiment. By changing the hole diameter, number, and position of the outlet 103, the flow rate of water dripped from the

outlets

102 and 103 onto the diffusion member 30 can be finely controlled.

Embodiment 3 FIG.
FIG. 20 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the water storage tank 12 portion of the humidifying element 2 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, corresponding to the cross-sectional view taken along the line ZZ shown in FIG. It inclines so that the right side in a figure may become low. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of humidifying element 2 according to Embodiment 3, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view taken along the line WW shown in FIG. It inclines so that the right side in a figure may become low. Since the third embodiment has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment except that the shape of the communication channel 100 is different, the description of the part having the same configuration is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 20, in one communication channel 100, in addition to the inlet 101 provided at the end, a plurality of inlets 104 are provided. In addition, the inflow port 104 which consists of two circular (dotted line) openings provided in the water storage tank 12 shown in the drawing schematically represents the inflow port 101 located on the near side of the drawing. The water that flows from the water storage tank 12 to the inlet 101 flows into the communication channel 100 shown in FIG. 21, flows out of the outlet 102, and is absorbed by the diffusion member 30. By providing a plurality of inflow ports 104 in this way, the ratio of the flow rate flowing through the water injection hole 12a and the flow rate flowing through the communication channel 100 can be finely controlled using the above equation (2).

When a plurality of inlets 104 are provided, it is necessary to reduce the flow rate in at least one inlet 104. If the hole diameter of the inflow port 104 is increased more than necessary and the flow rate is not reduced, all the water concentrates on one inflow port 104 and the flow rate flowing through the communication channel 100 cannot be adjusted. The merit to provide becomes small.

Embodiment 4 FIG.
FIG. 22 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the water storage tank 12 portion of the humidifying element 2 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view along the line ZZ shown in FIG. In the fourth embodiment, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment except that the shape of the water storage tank 12 is different. Therefore, the description of the same configuration is omitted. In addition, FIG. 22 has shown the water tank 12 inclined so that the right side in a figure may become low.

A pipe which is a communication channel 100 is provided inside the water storage tank 12 of the fourth embodiment. The communication channel 100 is formed of a bent pipe having a convex curve upward. The communication channel 100 is made of a material having water resistance and anticorrosion properties such as a silicon tube and a metal tube subjected to anticorrosion treatment.

The inlet 101 which is one end of the communication channel 100 is located at a position higher than the upper end of the water injection hole 12a and a position lower than the upper end of the outer wall of the water storage tank 12 when the water storage tank 12 is installed horizontally. Is formed. Further, it is arranged near the bottom surface of the water tank 12. The outlet 102 that is the other end of the communication channel 100 is provided on the bottom surface of the water storage tank 12 and immediately above the diffusion member 30. The outflow port 102 may be located on the side surface of the diffusion member 30 as long as it can supply the water flowing through the communication channel 100 to the diffusion member 30. In the state where the water storage tank 12 is horizontally disposed, the inflow port 101 and the outflow port 102 are disposed at different heights. More specifically, the inflow port 101 is disposed at a higher position than the outflow port 102.

The flow of water in the communication channel 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 22, the water level in the water storage tank 12 is balanced at the water level J by balancing the flow rate supplied to the water storage tank 12 and the flow rate dropped from the water injection hole 12a. At this time, the water that has flowed in from the inlet 101 is filled in the communication channel 100 to a position slightly lower than the water level J. At this time, there is the following relationship between the surface tension F that works in a direction that hinders the flow of water in the communication channel 100 and the force F ′ caused by the water pressure that causes water to flow through the communication channel 100.
F> F ′ (4)

Here, a case is considered where hardness components and dust in water accumulate around the water injection hole 12a over time and the flow resistance of the water injection hole 12a increases. The water level in the water storage tank 12 gradually rises from the position of the water level J. However, since the communication flow path 100 is formed by an upwardly convex pipe, the water in the pipe does not flow out from the outlet 102 at least until it exceeds the apex of the bent portion.

Next, when the force acting on the liquid surface in the communication channel 100 has the following relationship, at that moment, water starts to flow in the communication channel 100 by the siphon principle.
F <F '(5)

Suppose that the water level in the water tank 12 at this moment is the water level K. The water flowing in the communication channel 100 exits from the outlet 102 and is absorbed by the diffusion member 30. Moreover, the water level in the water storage tank 12 falls by water flowing out.

Next, when the force acting on the liquid level in the communication channel 100 is again in the state of the above equation (4), the water in the communication channel 100 stops flowing. Let the water level at this moment be the water level L. In this state, since the water in the water tank 12 does not flow out, the water is again accumulated in the water tank 12, and the water level in the water tank 12 rises. When the water level reaches the water level K, water begins to flow through the communication channel 100 again. Thereafter, the water level fluctuates between the water level L and the water level K, and water flows intermittently through the communication channel 100.

According to the fourth embodiment, the rising water level is intermittently supplied from the water storage tank 12 to the diffusing member 30 using the siphon principle, and the diffusing member 30 and the humidifier 20 are flushed. it can. By configuring the communication channel 100 as described above, the water supplied to the diffusion member 30 through the communication channel 100 can be converted into a pulsating flow. Compared to the steady flow shown in the first embodiment, the evaporation residue and dust attached to the diffusion member 30 and the humidifying body 20 can be washed away instantaneously at a large flow rate, and the humidification performance is reduced due to the adhesion of the evaporation residue and dust. Can be suppressed, and the improved humidification performance can be improved.

On the other hand, if the instantaneous flow rate flowing through the communication channel 100 is too large, the water floating on the surface of the humidifying body 20 may fly on the wind and splash outside the product. Therefore, the flow rate flowing through the communication channel 100 needs to be regulated to a certain flow rate or less. The flow rate that flows in the communication channel 100 is the vertical distance from the height of the top of the bent portion of the communication channel 100 to the higher one of the inlet 101 or the outlet 102, and the communication channel. 100 can be adjusted by the wettability of the material constituting 100, the pipe inner diameter of the communication channel 100, and the like. Specifically, as the vertical distance from the height of the apex of the bent portion of the communication channel 100 to the height of the inlet 101 or the outlet 102, whichever is higher, the flow rate flowing through the communication channel 100 becomes larger. Become more. Moreover, the larger the pipe inner diameter of the communication channel 100, the greater the flow rate flowing through the communication channel 100.

In addition, when the pipe | tube internal diameter of the communication flow path 100 is too large, the flow of the water in the communication flow path 100 is not based on the principle of a siphon, but becomes an open flow. That is, when the water level exceeds the height (water level M) of the bottom of the bent portion of the communication channel 100, the water constantly flows in the communication channel 100. Therefore, in the fourth embodiment, it is necessary to pay attention to the setting of the inner diameter of the communication channel 100.

Two or more communication channels 100 may be installed. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a water storage tank in a modification of the fourth embodiment. Two communication channels 100 are provided in the water storage tank 12. When two or more communication channels 100 are provided, at least two of the communication channels 100 may be provided at positions where the outlets 102 face each other with respect to the first direction. In this case, the position where the pipe of the communication channel 100 is bent so as to protrude upward may be provided at a position facing the outlet 102 of the communication channel 100 with respect to the first direction. Thereby, even when the water storage tank 12 is installed to be inclined to one of the sides, the water flows only in the communication channel 100 having the outlet 102 on the high inclination side, and the water in the water storage tank 12 is drained. The diffusion member 30 can be guided to the upper side of the inclination.

In addition, although the communication flow path 100 of this Embodiment 4 is formed inside the water storage tank 12, what is necessary is just the thing using the siphon effect, and the communication flow path 100 is outside the outer wall of the water storage tank 12, You may form in the position away from the outer wall of the water storage tank 12. FIG.

Embodiment 5 FIG.
FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the water storage tank 12 portion of the humidifying element 2 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view along the line ZZ shown in FIG. In the fifth embodiment, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment except that the shape of the water storage tank 12 is different. Therefore, the description of the same configuration is omitted. FIG. 24 shows the water storage tank 12 inclined so that the right side in the figure is lowered.

A communication channel 100 is formed outside the outer wall of the water storage tank 12. An inlet 101 is formed on the wall surface of the water tank 12. The inflow port 101 is located at a position higher than the upper end of the water injection hole 12 a and a position lower than the upper end of the outer wall of the water storage tank 12 in a state where the water storage tank 12 is installed horizontally. The outflow port 102 is provided outside the water storage tank 12 and is located immediately above the diffusion member 30.

The water storage tank 12 is formed with a flow path switching member 110 for switching the communication flow path 100 through which water flows. One flow path switching member 110 is provided at each end of the water storage tank 12 in the longitudinal direction. The flow path switching member 110 is located on the inner side of the water storage tank 12 with respect to the inlet 101, and is formed of a valve body that opens only to the inner side of the water tank with the support portion 111 as a fulcrum. The flow path switching member 110 is formed of a plate larger than the opening of the inflow port 101 and can cover the inflow port 101. The channel switching member 110 functions as a channel opening / closing unit that opens and closes the inflow port 101. The flow path switching member 110 has waterproofness and corrosion resistance, and is formed of a material having a specific gravity greater than that of water.

When the water storage tank 12 is installed at an inclination, the flow path switching member 110 at a lower position due to the inclination is held in contact with the outer wall of the water storage tank 12 by the action of gravity. On the other hand, the flow path switching member 110 at a high position due to the inclination is opened and held inside the water storage tank 12 by the action of gravity. Therefore, the inflow port 101 at the relatively low position is closed by the flow path switching member 110, and the inflow port 101 at the high position is in an open state.

The flow of water in the communication channel 100 when the humidifier 1 and the humidifying element 2 are installed at an inclination will be described. It is assumed that hardness components and dust in the water have accumulated over time around the water injection hole 12a and the flow resistance of the water injection hole 12a has increased. As the flow of the water injection hole 12a becomes worse, the water level in the water storage tank 12 rises as described above.

24. At this time, as shown in FIG. 24, there is no gap between the flow path switching member 110 located on the low slope side and the inflow port 101, and water does not flow out. On the other hand, a gap is formed between the flow path switching member 110 and the inflow port 101 that are located on the higher slope side. When the water level reaches the water level N in the figure, the water flows into the communication channel 100 through the gap between the channel switching member 110 and the inflow port 101 located on the higher slope side. The water flows out from the outflow port 102, is absorbed by the higher inclined side of the diffusion member 30, and flows down to the humidifier 20.

In Embodiment 1 to Embodiment 4, when the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is inclined, the inlet 101 is used as a measure for supplying the water overflowing from the water storage tank 12 to the upper side of the inclination of the diffusing member 30. And the outlet 102 are formed at positions opposite to each other across the water storage tank 12. On the other hand, in the fifth embodiment, by using the flow path switching member 110, the inflow port 101 and the outflow port 102 are formed on the same side with respect to the water storage tank 12. Therefore, the communication channel 100 can be shortened. Thereby, size reduction of the upper structure of the humidification element 2 including the water storage tank 12 and the communication flow path 100 can be achieved. Therefore, it is suitable when the water storage tank 12 and the casing 10 have dimensional restrictions. In FIG. 24, the communication channel 100 is constituted by a pipe, but it is sufficient if water can be flowed, and it may be constituted by an open channel. Further, one or more communication channels 100 may be provided.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a water storage tank according to a modification of the fifth embodiment. In the modification of the fifth embodiment, a sphere is used for the flow path switching member 110. In addition, FIG. 25 has shown the water storage tank 12 inclined so that the right side in the figure may become low.

The flow path switching member 110 is made of a material such as a resin having a specific gravity greater than that of water and having waterproofness and corrosion resistance, and a metal such as aluminum. The flow path switching member 110 is formed as a sphere that is larger than the opening of the inflow port 101 and smaller than the water storage tank 12. Therefore, the inlet 101 can be closed by fitting the flow path switching member 110 to the inlet 101. Further, the water storage tank 12 is provided with a support portion 111 for limiting the amount of movement of the flow path switching member 110.

The support unit 111 has a spherical channel switching member 110 mounted thereon, and thus a mounting unit 111a that positions the channel switching member 110 at the same height as the inflow port 101, and upward from the mounting unit 111a. And a wall portion 111 b that extends and faces the inflow port 101. The flow path switching member 110 is disposed between the inflow port 101 and the wall portion 111b, so that the drop from the placement portion 111a is prevented. Note that the wall portion 111b may be formed on the near side and the far side in FIG. 25 in order for the flow path switching member 110 to restrict movement toward the near side or the far side in FIG. In addition, in order to restrict the upward movement of the flow path switching member 110, a top surface portion facing the mounting portion 111a is formed to more reliably prevent the flow path switching member 110 from dropping from the mounting portion 111a. You may comprise so that it can do.

The flow of water in the communication channel 100 when the humidifier 1 or the humidifying element 2 is installed at an inclination will be described. As shown in FIG. 25, the flow path switching member 110 receives the action of gravity and moves to a lower position due to the inclination. At this time, the flow path switching member 110 located at a low position due to the inclination moves to the inlet 101 side, and the inlet 101 is closed. That is, water does not flow into the inlet 101 located at a low position due to the inclination.

On the other hand, the flow path switching member 110 at a high position due to the inclination moves toward the wall portion 111b of the support portion 111 and is held in contact with the wall portion 111b. As a result, a gap is formed between the flow path switching member 110 and the inflow port 101 at a high position due to the inclination, and when the water level reaches the water level O in the figure, the water passes through the gap and the high position due to the inclination. The water is absorbed by the diffusion member 30 through the outflow port 102.

In addition, although the spherical body is used for the flow path switching member 110 in the modification of the fifth embodiment, the flow path switching member 110 is movable when the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is inclined, and the position is relatively low. The inflow port 101 at the upper position may be closed and the inflow port 101 at a relatively high position may be opened. Therefore, the flow path switching member 110 may be a mass body that moves in the direction of gravity, and may be a member such as a linear motion bearing that operates in the linear direction.

In the fifth embodiment, the flow path switching member 110 made of a material having a specific gravity greater than that of water is used. On the other hand, the flow path switching member 110 is configured to supply water to the upper side of the inclination of the diffusing member 30 by moving or deforming the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 as compared with the horizontal state when the humidifying device 1 or the humidifying element 2 is inclined. Good. A material having a specific gravity smaller than that of water may be used for the flow path switching member 110, and the flow path switching member 110 may be operated by its own buoyancy to switch the communication flow path 100 through which water flows.

By providing the humidifier 1 described in Embodiments 1 to 5 in the air conditioner or the ventilator, the air supplied from the air conditioner or the ventilator to the room can be humidified.

The configuration described in the above embodiment shows an example of the contents of the present invention, and can be combined with another known technique, and can be combined with other configurations without departing from the gist of the present invention. It is also possible to omit or change the part.

1 humidifier, 2 humidifier, 3 water supply pipe, 3a water supply valve, 4 drain pipe, 5 blower, 6 control device, 7 drain pan, 8 water level detection sensor, 10, 10a, 10b casing, 10c opening, 10d protrusion, 11 Water supply port, 12 Water tank, 12a Water injection hole, 13 Drainage part, 13a Drainage port, 14 Structural wall, 15 Engagement part, 20 Humidifier, 21 Convex part, 30 Diffusion member, 40 Orifice part, 100 Communication channel, 101 , 104 inlet, 102, 103 outlet, 110 flow path switching member, 111 support part, 111a mounting part, 111b wall part.

Claims

A plurality of humidifiers arranged along the first direction so as to provide a gap between each other;
A water storage tank provided above the humidifying body for storing water;
A flow path provided above the humidifying body and capable of passing water;
A plurality of water injection holes for dripping water are formed on the bottom surface of the water storage tank,
The flow path has an inflow port communicating with the inside of the water storage tank, and an outflow port through which water passing through the flow path flows out,
The inflow port and the outflow port are provided apart from each other in the first direction;
The humidifying element, wherein the outlet is formed at a position lower than the inlet while the water storage tank is horizontally disposed.
A diffusion member that extends along the first direction and that is provided below the water storage tank and contacts the plurality of humidifiers;
The humidifying element according to claim 1, wherein the outlet of the flow path is provided above the diffusion member.
The humidifying element according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the flow paths are provided.
4. The humidifying element according to claim 3, wherein at least two of the plurality of inflow ports of the flow paths are arranged with the water storage tank interposed therebetween.
The humidifying element according to claim 4, wherein the outlet of the channel is arranged at a position opposite to the inlet of the channel with the water tank interposed therebetween.
The gradient of the flow path in a state where the water tank is horizontally disposed is α,
When the maximum allowable tilt angle in the design of the water tank is β MAX ,
The humidifying element according to claim 5, wherein a relationship of α> β MAX is established.
The inlet of the flow path is the case where the water storage tank is disposed horizontally, water is supplied to the water storage tank at a designed flow rate, and water flows out from the water injection hole at a designed flow rate. The humidifying element according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the humidifying element is located above a water level in the water storage tank.
The humidifying element according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the outlets are provided in one of the flow paths.
The humidifying element according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the inlets are provided in one of the flow paths.
A flow path opening / closing section that opens and closes the plurality of flow paths;
The flow path opening / closing part closes the inflow port at a relatively low position and opens the inflow port at a relatively high position according to the posture of the water storage tank. The humidifying element as described.
The humidifying element according to claim 10, wherein the flow path opening / closing part is formed of a material having a specific gravity smaller than that of water.
The humidifying element according to claim 1, wherein the flow path and the water storage tank are integrally formed of resin.
A plurality of humidifiers arranged along the first direction so as to provide a gap between each other;
A water storage tank provided above the humidifying body for storing water;
A flow path provided above the humidifying body and capable of passing water;
A plurality of water injection holes for dripping water are formed on the bottom surface of the water storage tank,
The flow path is a pipe having an upward convex curve that is disposed inside the water storage tank, and an inflow port that is one end and an outflow port that is the other end are disposed at different heights. A humidifying element characterized by that.
A humidifying element according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
A humidifier comprising: a blower that sends wind to the humidifying element.
An air conditioner comprising the humidifying device according to claim 14.
A ventilation device comprising the humidification device according to claim 14.