HUMIDIFIER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Application No. 10-2023-0055142 filed in Korea on Apr. 27, 2023, whose entire disclosure(s) is/are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND
1. Field

This disclosure relates to a humidifier.

2. Background

A humidifier is a device that vaporizes water and emits humidified air with the vaporized water to have a relatively high moisture content. A humidifier can generate humidified air by vaporizing water through various techniques, such as natural evaporation, heated evaporation, or ultrasonic vibration.

An ‘upward discharge type large-capacity humidifier’ discussed in Korean Patent No. 10-2500340 includes a water tank for storing water; and a main body that is disposed above the water tank and has a discharge hole formed in the upper side, wherein the main body includes a water storage space where supplied water is temporarily stored; a vibrator disposed on the bottom surface of the water storage space; a display disposed on an exterior wall; and a machine room formed below the water storage space.

However, since the display in this humidifier is disposed on a peripheral, exterior wall of the main body forming the water storage space, it may be relatively difficult to electrically connect the display to the machine room and to supply power to the display. In addition, since the display is disposed on the peripheral wall of the main body forming the water storage space, electric energy may leak from the display to the water stored in the water storage space, causing a potential safety risk to a user.

The above reference is incorporated by reference herein where appropriate for appropriate teachings of additional or alternative details, features and/or technical background.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a blowing device in a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a flow path unit of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a coupling exploded view of a flow path unit of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a humidifying device and a flow path unit of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a coupling exploded view of a display, a humidifying device, and a middle tray of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a coupling exploded view of a display and a humidifying device in a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a humidifying device of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a main housing of a humidifier according to an embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a humidifying device of a humidifier according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 14 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an electrical equipment unit of a humidifier according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Description will now be given in detail according to exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of brief description with reference to the drawings, the same or equivalent components may be denoted by the same reference numbers, and description thereof will not be repeated.

In general, suffixes such as “module” and “unit” may be used to refer to elements or components. Use of such suffixes herein is merely intended to facilitate description of the specification, and the suffixes do not have any special meaning or function.

In the present disclosure, concepts that may be relatively well known to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art have generally been omitted for the sake of brevity. The accompanying drawings are used to assist in easy understanding of various technical features, and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawings.

It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected with” another element, there may be intervening elements present. In contrast, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “directly connected with” another element, there are no intervening elements present. A singular representation may include a plural representation unless context clearly indicates otherwise.

In the present application, it should be understood that the terms “comprises, includes,” “has,” etc. specify the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof. The direction indications of up (U), down (D), left (Le), right (Ri), front (F), rear (R), and outside (O) shown in the drawing are only for convenience of explanation, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 1, a humidifier 1 in certain implementations may include a case 10, a stand 16, a discharge grill 160, and a water tank cover 150. The case 10 may form an outer shape of the humidifier 1. The case 10 may extend relatively longer in the up-down direction. For example, the case 10 may have a substantially cylindrical shape or other shape extending lengthwise in the up-down direction. The case 10 may include an internal space. A humidifying device 200 (see FIG. 2) to form humidified air, which will be described later, may be disposed in the internal space of the case 10.

The case 10 may include a suction hole, such as suction hole 310 in FIG. 2. The suction hole may be a through hole formed in the case 10. The suction hole may be formed in a side surface of the case 10. The suction hole may be formed in a circumferential surface of the case 10 when, for example, the case 10 has a cylinder shape. For example, the suction hole may be a through hole formed in a side or circumferential surface of the case 10. The case 10 may include a discharge hole, such as discharge hole 1600 in FIG. 2). The humidified air may be supplied to the indoor space through a discharge hole of the case 10. The discharge hole may be formed above the case 10. The upper side of the case 10 may be open. The discharge hole may be an opening formed above the case 10. For example, the discharge hole may be a substantially annular or other shaped discharge hole opened in the upper surface or other region of the cylindrical case 10. The indoor air flowing into the case 10 through the suction hole may be discharged from the case 10 through the discharge hole, together with humidified air.

The humidifier 1 may include a stand 16 that supports the case 10. The stand 16 may be disposed below the case 10. The stand 16 may be fixed to the case 10. The stand 16 can help to improve the stability of case 10 and to help prevent the case 10 from falling. For example, the diameter of the stand 16 may be relatively larger than the diameter of the case 10. The outer circumference of the stand 16 may be located outside the peripheral wall of the case 10 in the horizontal direction.

The discharge grill 160 may be disposed in the discharge hole. The discharge grill 160 may be disposed in the open upper side of the case 10. The discharge grill 160 may be disposed in the discharge hole. The discharge grill 160 may form a portion of the upper surface of the case 10. Humidified air and air discharged from case 10 may pass through the discharge grill 160 and be supplied to the indoor space.

The water tank cover 150 may be disposed on the open upper side of the case 10. For example, the water tank cover 150 may be disposed at the radial center of the discharge grill 160 in the upper side of case 10. The discharge grill 160 may be disposed in radially outside of the water tank cover 150 in a horizontal direction. The water tank cover 150 may cover a water tank 110 described later. For example, the water tank cover 150 may be a lid of the water tank 110. The water tank cover 150 may be removably or hingedly attached to the discharge grill 160. For example, a user may supply water to the water tank 110 by separating the water tank cover 150 from the discharge grill 160. After supplying water, a user may recouple the water tank cover 150 to the discharge grill 160 to seal the water tank 110.

Referring to FIG. 2, the humidifier 1 in certain implementations may include a case 10, a water tank 110, a humidifying device 200, and a blowing fan 350. The indoor air may be flowed into the humidifier 1 through a suction hole 310 formed in the case 10 (Fi). The suction hole 310 may be formed in the lower portion of the case 10. The air flowing into the inside of the case 10 may flow through the flow path formed therein (Fi). The air flowing inside the case 10 may be discharged back to the indoor space through a discharge hole 1600 formed in the upper side (Fi). At this time, the humidity of the discharged air may be higher than the humidity of the sucked air.

The water tank 110 may store water. The water tank 110 may define or otherwise include a water storage space 1100 in which water may be stored. As previously described, the water tank 110 may receive the water via an upper opening, such as when water tank cover 150 is removed. In another example, at least a portion of the water provided to the water tank 110 may be received from an external water source via an input water line coupled to the humidifier 1. The water stored in the water storage space 1100 may be supplied to the humidifying device 200 (Fs1). The humidifying device 200 can generate humidified air using supplied water from the water tank 110.

The humidifying device 200 may generate humidified air. Humidified air may include mist (e.g., water droplets) and/or water vapor (e.g., evaporated water). For example, humidified air may refer to air including mist and/or water vapor. The humidity of humidified air may be higher than the humidity of indoor air.

The humidifying device 200 may include a heating water tank 230. Water supplied from the water tank 110 may flow into the heating water tank 230 (Fs1). The heating water tank 230 may heat the water supplied from the water tank 110. The heating water tank 230 may sterilize the supplied water by heating it. The heating water tank 230 may heat and evaporate at least a portion of the supplied water to form the humidified air.

The humidifying device 200 may include a humidifying water tank 260. The water sterilized in the heating water tank 230 may move to the humidifying water tank 260 (Fs1). The humidifying water tank 260 may utilize water supplied from the heating water tank 230 to generate humidified air. In other examples, the heating water tank 230 may be omitted or the humidifying water tank 260 may utilize water supplied directly from water tank 110 and bypassing the heating water tank 230. The humidifying water tank 260 may generate humidified air by using any one of an ultrasonic method, a heating method, an evaporation method, and/or a disk method. For example, the humidifying water tank 260 may generate humidified air by atomizing the supplied water by using an ultrasonic vibrator (such as vibration device 262 depicted in FIG. 13).

The blowing fan 350 may be disposed inside the case 10. The blowing fan 350 may be disposed below the humidifying device 200. The blowing fan 350 may form an air current that flows inside the case. The blowing fan 350 may form an airflow flowing from the suction hole 310 to the discharge hole 1600 (Fi). For example, the blowing fan 350 may form a rising airflow that flows from the suction hole 310 formed in the lower portion of the case 10 to the discharge hole 1600 formed in the upper surface of the case 10.

For example, the air flowing in through the suction hole 310 may flow toward the blowing fan 350 through the suction flow path 330 (Fi). The case 10 may define or otherwise include a blowing flow path 390. The blowing flow path 390 may be formed inside the case 10. The blowing flow path 390 may be a flow path through which air flow away from the blowing fan 350. The air passed through the blowing fan 350 may flow into the blowing flow path 390 (Fi).

The case 10 may include a discharge flow path 1000. The discharge flow path 1000 may be formed inside the case 10. The air passed through the blowing flow path 390 may subsequently flow to the discharge flow path 1000 to be discharged from case 10 (Fd). For example, the discharge flow path 1000 may be located above the blowing flow path 390. The discharge flow path 1000 may be located in the downstream side of the blowing flow path 390.

In certain implementations of humidifier 1, the discharge flow path 1000 may include a first discharge flow path 1000a and a second discharge flow path 1000b. The discharge hole 1600 may include a first discharge hole 1600a corresponding to and receiving air flowing in the first discharge flow path 1000a, and a second discharge hole 1600b corresponding to and receiving air flowing in the second discharge flow path 1000b. The second discharge flow path 1000b may be formed inside the case 10. The first discharge flow path 1000a may be formed radially inside the second discharge flow path 1000b. The second discharge flow path 1000b may be connected to the blowing flow path 390 to receive non-humidified air. The second discharge flow path 1000b may be located in the downstream side of the blowing flow path 390. Some of the air passed through the blowing flow path 390 may rise through the second discharge flow path 1000b (Fd2) to bypass humidifying device 200. The non-humidified air that passed through the second discharge flow path 1000b may be supplied to the indoor space through the second discharge hole 1600b (Fd2). Some remaining portion of the air that passed through the blowing flow path 390 may flow into the humidifying device 200 (Fs2). Some remaining portion of the air passed through the blowing flow path 390 may flow into the humidifying water tank 260 (Fs2). The air flowing into the humidifying water tank 260 may mix with mist and/or water vapor within the humidifying water tank 260 to form humidified air, and this humidified air may flow into the first discharge flow path 1000a from the humidifying water tank 260 (Fd1). Humidified air flowing through the first discharge flow path 1000a may be supplied to the indoor space through the first discharge hole 1600a (Fd1).

Referring to FIG. 3, the humidifier 1 in certain implementations may include a blower 300, a humidifying device 200, a flow path unit 100, a display 500, and an electrical equipment unit 380. The blower 300 may form an airflow. The blower 300 may be disposed inside the case 10. The blower 300 may form an airflow flowing inside the case 10. The blower 300 may suction indoor air into the case 10 through the suction hole 310. The blower 300 may blow the sucked—in air toward, for example, the humidifying device 200 and/or the flow path unit 100. The blower 300 may form an airflow that pulls the humidified air generated by the humidifying device 200. The blower 300 may provide power to discharge humidified air generated by the humidifying device 200 to the indoor space.

The humidifying device 200 may generate humidified air. The humidifying device 200 may be disposed inside the case 10. The humidifying device 200 may be disposed above the blower 300. The humidifying device 200 may discharge humidified air. The rising airflow formed from the blower 300 may be directed to the humidifying device 200 through the blowing flow path 390. The rising airflow may pull the humidified air generated by the humidifying device 200 upward. The humidified air may be discharged through the discharge hole 1600 along with an upward airflow.

A flow path unit 100 may include a flow path through which air is discharged from case 10. The flow path unit 100 may include a discharge flow path 1000. The discharge flow path 1000 may include a first discharge flow path 1000a and a second discharge flow path 1000b. Humidified air generated by the humidifying device 200 may flow to the first discharge hole 1600a through the first discharge flow path 1000a. The humidified air may be supplied to the indoor space through the first discharge hole 1600a. A portion of the air flowing in the blowing flow path 390 may bypass the humidifying device 200 and flow to the second discharge hole 1600b through the second discharge flow path 1000b. The portion of non-humidified air may be supplied to the indoor space through the second discharge hole 1600b.

The display 500 may display information on the humidifier 1. For example, as depicted in FIG. 3, a surface of the display 500 may be exposed outside of the humidifier 1 through an opening in the case 10. The display 500 may include an output unit that displays information on the humidifier 1 to a user. Information on the humidifier 1 may include status information, such as the level of water stored in the water tank 110, the amount of humidification discharged, the temperature and humidity of the indoor space, the quality of air in the indoor space, the concentration of fine dust in the indoor space, and the like. The display 500 may include an input unit, such as a touch screen or one or more buttons, through which a user's command may be input. A user may control the operation of the humidifier 1 through the display 500. For example, a user may control the humidification amount, air volume, operation time, turn on-off of lighting, the intensity of lighting, etc. through the display 500.

The electrical equipment unit (or control unit) 380 may transmit and receive electrical signals. The electrical equipment unit 380 may control the operation of the humidifier 1. The electrical equipment unit 380 may control the power supplied to the humidifier 1.

Referring to FIG. 4, the blower 300 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 may include a filter 320, a blowing fan (or impeller) 350, and a blower motor 352. The indoor air may be sucked into the blower 300 through the suction hole 310 formed in the case 10. The blower 300 may include a filter 320 that filters the sucked air. The filter 320 may be disposed inside the case 10. For example, the filter 320 may be disposed inside the cylindrical case 10, and may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The air passed through the filter 320 may flow toward the blowing fan 350 through the suction flow path 330. At least a portion of the suction flow path 330 may be formed in central cavity inside the filter 320 to receive air flowing through filter 320.

The blower 300 may include an orifice 340 located between the blowing fan 350 and the filter 320. The orifice 340 may be at least one hole through which the sucked air passes. The orifice 340 may be located between the suction flow path 330 and the blowing flow path 390. The orifice 340 may communicate with the suction flow path 330 and the blowing flow path 390. The orifice 340 may correspond to an inlet formed in the blowing fan 350. For example, the orifice 340 may correspond to the inlet formed in a shroud of the blowing fan 350. The sucked air may flow from the suction flow path 330 to the blowing fan 350 through the orifice 340, and may flow to the blowing flow path 390 by rotation of the blowing fan 350.

The blower 300 may include a blower motor 352 that rotates the blowing fan 350. The blower motor 352 may be connected to the blowing fan 350. For example, the shaft 354 of the blower motor 352 may be connected to the blowing fan 350. The blower motor 352 may be disposed above the blowing fan 350. The shaft 354 may extend downward from the blower motor 352, and may be connected to a hub of the blowing fan 350. As the blower motor 352 is driven, the blowing fan 350 may rotate to form an airflow.

The blower 300 may include a motor cover 360 in which the blower motor 352 is disposed. The blower motor 352 may be accommodated in the motor cover 360, and the blowing fan 350 may be disposed outside the motor cover 360. For example, the blowing fan 350 may be disposed below the motor cover 360. The shaft 354 of the blower motor 352 may penetrate the motor cover 360.

The blower 300 may include a blower housing 370 that forms at least a portion of the blowing flow path 390. The blower housing 370 may be disposed inside the case 10. The blowing fan 350 and the blower motor 352 may be disposed inside the blower housing 370. At least a portion of the blowing flow path 390 may be formed between the motor cover 360 and the blower housing 370. A side section of the blower housing 370 may extend in the up-down direction.

The case 10 may include an inner case 14 and an outer case 12. The outer case 12 may form a portion of the outer shape of the case 10, such as a side surface of the case 10. The outer case 12 may include a plurality of louvers 12a. The plurality of louvers 12a may be disposed along the circumference of the outer case 12. The inner case 14 may be disposed inside the outer case 12. The inner case 14 may be disposed above the blower housing 370. For example, the inner case 14 and the blower housing 370 may be disposed inside the outer case 12, and the inner case 14 may be coupled to the upper side of the blower housing 370.

The blowing flow path 390 may be formed inside the case 10. The blowing flow path 390 may extend in the up-down direction inside the case 10. The blowing flow path 390 may have a substantially annular cross-section. The blowing flow path 390 may be located in the downstream side of the blowing fan 350 to receive air blown from the fan 350. The blowing fan 350 may be located between the suction flow path 330 and the blowing flow path 390. The motor cover 360 may be disposed inside the blower housing 370. A portion of the blowing flow path 390 may be formed between the motor cover 360 and the blower housing 370, such as to guide blown air from fan 350 and toward an outlet of blower 300.

The electrical equipment unit 380 may be disposed above the blower motor 352. The electrical equipment unit 380 may be disposed inside the inner case 14. A portion of the blowing flow path 390 may be formed between the electrical equipment unit 380 and the inner case 14. Accordingly, an air flow may be directed toward the humidifying device 200 and/or outlet 1000 along the blowing flow path 390 by the blowing fan 350.

The blower 300 may include an air diffuser 372 disposed in the blowing flow path 390. The air diffuser 372 may control the directionality of the airflow flowing in the blowing flow path 390. For example, the air diffuser 372 may extend vertically to straighten the airflow flowing through the blowing flow path 390. The air diffuser 372 may be disposed in the outside of the motor cover 360. The air diffuser 372 may be disposed inside the blower housing 370. For example, the air diffuser 372 may include a plurality of air diffusers 372 disposed between the motor cover 360 and the blower housing 370, and the plurality of air diffusers 372 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the cross section of the blowing flow path 390. A flow path for air within the blowing flow path 390 may be formed between the plurality of air diffusers 372.

Referring to FIG. 4, the blower 300 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 may include an electrical equipment unit 380. The electrical equipment unit 380 may include a controller 388 that controls the operation of the humidifier 1. The controller 388 may control the turn on-off, operation time, humidification amount, turn on-off and intensity of lighting, etc. For example, the controller 388 may be a microcontroller (MCU) or a printed circuit board (PCB).

The electrical equipment unit 380 may include a power supply device (or power supply) 384 that receives external power and supplies electrical energy to the humidifier 1. For example, the power supply device 384 may selectively supply electrical energy to the humidifying device 200, the blower 300, and the display 500. The power supply device 384 may include a rectifier to convert external AC power into DC power.

The electrical equipment unit may include a phase control device 386. The phase control device 386 may convert the voltage and current input to the humidifying device 200. For example, the phase control device 386 may convert the power input to the heater 250 (see FIG. 11) that heats water received in the heating water tank 230.

The electrical equipment unit 380 may include a communication device, such as a modem or transmitter that transmits and receives data. The communication device may include a wireless communication device. The communication device may use wireless communication technologies such as Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, and cellular. The communication device may transmit and receive data to other devices, such as remote computer or a user device.

The electrical equipment unit 380 may include or be coupled to a sensor that detects information on the indoor space. For example, the sensor may include a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the indoor space and a humidity sensor that detects the humidity of the indoor space.

Referring to FIG. 5, the flow path unit 100 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 may include a shell 130, 140, the discharge grill 160, and the water tank cover 150. The flow path unit 100 may include the shell 130, 140. The case 10 may include the shell 130, 140. The shell 130, 140 may form at least a portion of the outer shape of the flow path unit 100. The shell 130, 140 may have an accommodation space formed therein. The water tank 110 may be accommodated in the shell 130, 140. At least a portion of the discharge flow path 1000 may be formed inside the shell 130, 140. The upper side of the shell 130, 140 may be open. The discharge hole 1600 may be formed above the shell 130, 140.

The discharge grill 160 may be disposed above or at an upper end of the shell 130, 140. The discharge grill 160 may be disposed in the discharge hole 1600. The discharge grill 160 may be disposed in upper end of the shell 130, 140. For example, the discharge grill 160 may extend along the inner circumference of the upper end of the shell 130, 140. The discharge grill 160 may include a plurality of vanes to direct a flow of air outputted from the humidifier 1.

The water tank cover 150 may be disposed above the shell 130, 140. The water tank cover 150 may cover the open upper side of the water tank 110. The water tank cover 150 may open or close the water tank 110. The water tank cover 150 may be disposed radially inside the discharge grill 160. The water tank cover 150 may be disposed in the center of the substantially annular discharge grill 160. For example, the water tank 110 may be disposed in the radial center of the shell 130, 140, and the water tank cover 150 may cover the open upper side of the water tank 110.

Referring to FIG. 6, the flow path unit 100 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 may include a water tank 110, a water tank cover 150, a water tank housing 120, an inner shell 130, an outer shell 140, and a discharge grill 160. The water tank 110 may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, such as to have a circular cross section shape in a horizontal direction. The water tank 110 may extend in the vertical direction. The water tank 110 may have a water storage space 1100 formed therein. The discharge grill 160 may extend along the circumference of the upper end of the water tank 110. The discharge grill 160 may be disposed radially outside the upper end of the water tank 110. The water tank 110 may include a water tank peripheral wall 112 that forms an outer shape of the water tank 110. The water tank peripheral wall 112 may partition the water storage space 1100 of the water tank 110.

The water tank housing 120 may accommodate the water tank 110. For example, the water tank housing 120 may have or define an internal space where the water tank 110 may be disposed. The water tank housing 120 may substantially surround the water tank 110. The water tank housing 120 may be a holder for the water tank 110. The water tank housing 120 may cover the water tank peripheral wall 112 of the water tank 110. The water tank 110 may be fitted into the water tank housing 120. The water tank peripheral wall 112 may be in relatively close contact with the inner peripheral wall of the water tank housing 120. The water tank housing 120 may fix the inserted water tank 110 so that it does not move in the horizontal direction. The water tank housing 120 may be maintained horizontally so that the water tank 110 does not tip over inside the case 10. The water tank housing 120 and the water tank 110 may be separated from the case 10 respectively. The water tank housing 120 may include a housing peripheral wall 122 that partitions the internal space and that may be in relatively close contact with water tank peripheral wall 112.

The shell 130, 140 may include an inner shell 130. The case 10 may include the inner shell 130. The inner shell 130 may accommodate the water tank 110 and/or the water tank housing 120. The inner shell 130 may be spaced apart from the water tank 110 and/or the water tank housing 120 in an outward direction. A portion of the first discharge flow path 1000a may be formed in a space between the inner shell 130 and the water tank housing 120, and as previously described, humidified air generated in the humidifying device 200 may flow through the first discharge flow path 1000a. In another example, at least a portion of the first discharge flow path 1000a may be formed between the water tank 110 and the inner shell 130. A portion of the second discharge flow path 1000b may be formed between the inner shell 130 and the inner surface of the case 10. Thus, the inner shell 130 may partition the first discharge flow path 1000a and the second discharge flow path 1000b. The inner shell 130 may include an inner peripheral wall or peripheral side wall 132 that partitions the internal space.

The shell 130, 140 may include an outer shell 140. The case 10 may include the outer shell 140. The outer shell 140 may form the outer shape of the flow path unit 100. The outer shell 140 may have an internal space. The upper side of the outer shell 140 may be open. The outer shell 140 may accommodate the water tank 110, the water tank housing 120, and/or the inner shell 130. The outer shell 140 may be spaced outwardly from the water tank 110, the water tank housing 120, and/or the inner shell 130. The discharge flow path 1000 may be formed inside the outer shell 140. For example, the discharge flow path 1000 may be formed between the outer shell 140 and the water tank 110. For example, the first discharge flow path 1000a may be formed between the water tank housing 120 and the inner shell 130, and the second discharge flow path 1000b may be formed between the inner shell 130 and the outer shell 140. The outer shell 140 may include an outer peripheral wall or outer side wall 142 that partitions the internal space.

Referring to FIG. 7, humidified air discharged from the humidifying device 200 may be discharged through the flow path unit 100 in certain implementations of humidifier 1. For example, the humidifying device 200 may include a main housing 2000, a supply pipe 210, and a humid air outlet 2742. The main housing 2000 may form the outer shape of the humidifying device 200.

Water stored in the water storage space 1100 may flow into the humidifying device 200 through the supply pipe 210. The humidifying device 200 may generate humidified air by using water supplied through the supply pipe 210. The supply pipe 210 may be disposed at an upper end of the humidifying device 200. The supply pipe 210 may extend upward, such as from an upper surface of the humidifying device 200. For example, water stored in the water storage space 1100 located above the humidifying device 200 may flow in through the supply pipe 210 located above the humidifying device 200.

Humidified air generated by the humidifying device 200 may be discharged through the humid air outlet 2742. The humid air outlet 2742 may be formed at an upper end of the humidifying device 200. The humid air outlet 2742 may be open in the upper surface of the humidifying device 200.

A middle tray 400 may be disposed above the humidifying device 200. The middle tray 400 may be coupled to or may be integrally provided at the upper surface of the humidifying device 200. The middle tray 400 may be disposed between the humidifying device 200 and the flow path unit 100. For example, middle tray 400 may collect and guide downward flowing water that spills from water tank 110 and into first discharge flow path 1000a toward humid air outlet 2742 to be received in humidifying chamber 260.

The display 500 may be disposed in one side of the humidifying device 200. A portion (e.g., a lower portion) of the display 500 may be coupled to one side of the main housing 2000. A portion (e.g., an upper portion) of the display 500 may be coupled to one side of the middle tray 400. For example, the middle tray 400 may be disposed at the upper surface of the humidifying device 200, and the display 500 may be disposed at the side surface of the humidifying device 200.

Continuing with FIG. 7, the flow path unit 100 may include the water storage space 1100, the discharge flow path 1000, and the discharge hole 1600. The water storage space 1100 may be formed inside the flow path unit 100. Water stored in the water storage space 1100 may be supplied to the humidifying device 200. For example, as previously described, the water stored in the storage space 1100 may flow into the humidifying device 200 through the supply pipe 210 located in below the water storage space 1100.

At least a portion of the discharge flow path 1000 may be located inside the flow path unit 100. The discharge flow path 1000 may be located radially outside of the water storage space 1100. At least a portion of the discharge flow path 1000 may be located between the peripheral wall of the flow path unit 100 and the water storage space 1100. As previously described, the discharge flow path 1000 may include the first discharge flow path 1000a located outside the water storage space 1100 and the second discharge flow path 1000b located outside the first discharge flow path 1000a. In this example, the first discharge flow path 1000a may be located between the water storage space 1100 and the second discharge flow path 1000b. Similarly, the second discharge flow path 1000b may be located between the first discharge flow path 1000a and the peripheral wall of the flow path unit 100.

Humidified air discharged from the humidifying device 200 may flow through the discharge flow path 1000. For example, the humidified air discharged from the humid air outlet 2742 may flow upward through the first discharge flow path 1000a. The humidified air flowing through the first discharge flow path 1000a may be supplied to the indoor space through the discharge hole 1600. The first discharge flow path 1000a and the second discharge flow path 1000b may be joined at the discharge hole 1600. The first discharge flow path 1000a may be fluidly connected to the humid air outlet 2742, such as in space between an upper end of the humidifying device 200 and a lower end of flow path unit 100. The second discharge flow path 1000b may be connected to a portion of the blowing flow path 390, such as a space between an outer side surface of the humidifying device 200 and case 10 (see FIG. 2) that bypassed the humidifying device to receive a flow on non-humidified air.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 10, the middle tray 400 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 may be coupled to the upper side of the humidifying device 200, and the display 500 may be coupled to the side surface of the middle tray 400 and the humidifying device 200. For example, the middle tray 400 may be seated on the upper side of the humidifying device 200. The supply pipe 210 of the humidifying device 200 may penetrate the middle tray 400. The supply pipe 210 of the humidifying device 200 may be disposed in or extend through a middle inlet 4002 of the middle tray 400. The middle tray 400 may include a middle outlet 4004 corresponding to the humid air outlet 2742 of the humidifying device 200.

The display 500 may be coupled to the side surface of the humidifying device 200. The middle tray 400 may be coupled to the upper side of the humidifying device 200, and the display 500 may be coupled to the side surface of the middle tray 400 and the side surface of the humidifying device 200.

The display 500 may include a display housing 510 that forms the outer shape of the display 500. One side (e.g., a rear side) of the display housing 510 may be open, such as to provide an opening to receive other components of display 500. The other side (e.g., a front or exposed side) of the display housing 510 may be closed, such as to cover the other components of display 500. The open side and the other closed side may be opposite to each other. For example, the display housing 510 may have one side that faces the humidifying device 200 and is open, and the other side that is opposite to the one side, faces the outside, and is closed. In another example, display housing 510 may include an open side (e.g., an open side surface) that intersects a closed side (e.g., a front surface), and the rear surface may also be closed. As depicted in FIG. 3, the front surface of the display housing 510 may be exposed through an opening in case 10, and at least a portion of the front surface of the display housing 510 may be transparent to output information generated in display 500 to user. Furthermore, the front surface of the display housing 510 may correspond to an input device, such as touch screen, to receive a command from the user.

The middle tray 400 may include a coupling cover 436. The coupling cover 436 may extend from the side surface of the middle tray 400. The coupling cover 436 may cover the side surface of the display housing 510. The coupling cover 436 may correspond to and cover a side surface, such as an upper side surface, of the display housing 510.

The coupling cover 436 may include an upper cover 4362 that covers the upper surface of the display housing 510. The upper cover 4362 may cover at least a portion of the upper surface of the display housing 510. The upper cover 4362 may cover a portion of a gap formed between the display housing 510 and the middle tray 400.

The coupling cover 436 may include a side cover 4364 that covers at least a portion of the side surface of the display housing 510. The side cover 4364 may extend from the upper cover 4362. For example, the side cover 4364 may extend downward from the upper cover 4362. The side cover 4364 may cover at least an upper portion of the side surface of the display housing 510. The side cover 4364 may cover a portion of the gap formed between the display housing 510 and the middle tray 400.

The display 500 may be coupled to the middle tray 400. The display housing 510 may be fastened to the middle tray 400. The upper surface of the display housing 510 may be fastened to the upper cover 4362. The upper cover 4362 may include a first upper fastening portion (or first upper fastening region) 4365. The display housing 510 may include a second upper fastening portion (or second upper fastening region) 512 formed in the upper surface. The second upper fastening portion 512 may correspond to the first upper fastening portion 4365. For example, the first upper fastening portion 4365 and the second upper fastening portion 512 may be screw fastened. For example, the first upper fastening portion 4365 may include a wall having an opening through which a screw or other coupler passes, and the second upper fastening portion 512 may include a boss having a recess to receive an end of the screw or other coupler.

The display 500 may be coupled to the humidifying device 200. The display housing 510 may be fastened to the side surface of the main housing 2000. The main housing 2000 may include a first side fastening portion (or first side fastening region) 2004. The display housing 510 may include a second side fastening portion (or second side fastening region) 514 formed in a side surface of the display housing 510. The second side fastening portion 514 may correspond to the first side fastening portion 2004. For example, the first side fastening portion 2004 and the second side fastening portion 514 may be screw fastened. For example, the second side fastening portion 514 may include a wall having an opening through which a screw or other coupler passes, and the first side fastening portion 2004 include a boss having a recess to receive an end of the screw or other coupler.

Referring to FIG. 9, the display 500 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 may include a display substrate (or display circuitry) 520 installed inside the display housing 510. The display substrate 520 may include components to output information through the front surface of the display housing 510, and components to receive a command via the front surface of the display housing 510, such as a touch screen device having display circuitry to output light output and sensor circuitry to detect a user contact to the front surface of the display housing 510.

The display housing 510 may include an internal space 5100 in which the display substrate 520 may be disposed. The one side of the internal space 5100 may be open. For example, the display housing 510 may include an internal space 5100, and the internal space 5100 may be open toward the humidifying device 200 (e.g., in a rearward direction). The display substrate 520 may be disposed in the internal space 5100 of the display housing 510, and may face the main housing 2000.

The display substrate 520 may include insulation provided on a surface facing the main housing 2000. For example, insulation may cover a rear surface of the display substrate 520. The insulation may be formed of an insulating material. The insulation may be formed of a waterproof material to seal the components of the display substrate 510 from any water passing between the display cover 510 and the main housing 2000. For example, the insulation may be formed of silicone.

Referring to FIG. 11, the humidifying device 200 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 may include a heating water tank 230 that heats supplied water, a humidifying water tank 260 that generates humidified air by using heated supplied water, a main cover 2020 that covers the heating water tank 230 and the humidifying water tank 260, and a compartment cover 270 coupled to the main cover 2020.

The heating water tank 230 may include a heater 250 that heats the stored water. The heater 250 may include a heating element that emits heat based on electrical current received from electrical equipment unit 380. The heater 250 may be disposed below the heating water tank 230. The humidifying water tank 260 may be disposed in one side of the heating water tank 230, such as at a lower side of the heating water tank 230. The humidifying water tank 260 may receive sterilized water from the heating water tank 230.

The main cover 2020 may be disposed above the heating water tank 230 and the humidifying water tank 260. The main cover 2020 may cover the open upper side of the heating water tank 230 and the open upper side of the humidifying water tank 260. The main cover 2020 may be fixed to the heating water tank 230 and the humidifying water tank 260. The middle tray 400 may be coupled to the main cover 2020.

The compartment cover 270 may be fixed to the main cover 2020. A portion of the compartment cover 270 may be extend to be disposed within the humidifying water tank 260. The compartment cover 270 may guide a portion of the airflow flowing through the blowing flow path 390 to the inside of the humidifying water tank 260. The compartment cover 270 may define a path to discharge humidified air generated in the humidifying water tank 260 upward and away from the humidifying water tank 260. The compartment cover 270 may include a discharge pipe 274 that may have a lower end disposed in the humidifying water tank 260. The compartment cover 270 may include a humid air outlet 2742 that opens upward, such as toward first discharge flow path 1000a. The humid air outlet 2742 may be formed in one end of the discharge pipe 274.

The supply pipe 210 may protrude upward from the main cover 2020. The humidifying device 200 may include a first valve 212 that opens or closes a flow path through which water flows into the heating water tank 230 through the supply pipe 210. The first valve 212 may be disposed above the main cover 2020.

Referring to FIG. 12, the main housing 2000 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 be provided below main cover 2020 and may include a housing recess 2012 recessed from a lower surface, a base opening 2016, 2018 penetrating a bottom surface, and a drain hole 2015 through which residual water is discharged.

The main housing 2000 may include a housing base 2010 which may define a bottom wall of the main housing 2000. One surface of the housing base 2010 may form the inner bottom surface of the main housing 2000, and the other surface of the housing base 2010 may form the outer bottom surface of the main housing 2000.

The housing recess 2012 may be recessed inward and upward from the housing base 2010, and in a direction away from electrical equipment unit 380 provide below the humidifying device 200. The housing recess 2012 may extend or otherwise be located above the housing base 2010. The housing recess 2012 may protrude from housing base 2010. For example, the housing recess 2012 may protrude upward from the housing base 2010.

The base opening 2016, 2018 may be a through hole formed in the main housing 2000. The base opening 2016, 2018 may be formed in the housing base 2010. The base opening 2016, 2018 may communicate the inner space of the main housing 2000 with the inner space of an electrical equipment housing 382. The base opening 2016, 2018 may include a first base opening 2016 and a second base opening 2018. The first base opening 2016 and the second base opening 2018 may be spaced apart from each other. The electrical equipment unit 380 and the humidifying device 200 may be electrically connected through the base opening 2016, 2018. For example, wires caring power and control signals from the electrical equipment unit 380 and to heating water tank 230 and the humidifying water tank 260 may pass through the base openings 2016, 2018.

The main housing 2000 may include a base peripheral wall 2017, 2019 that protrudes upwards around the base opening 2016, 2018. The base peripheral wall 2017, 2019 may protrude toward the inside of the main housing 2000 from the outer edge of the base opening 2016, 2018. For example, the base peripheral wall 2017, 2019 may protrude upward from the perimeter of the base opening 2016, 2018. The base peripheral wall 2017, 2019 may include a first base peripheral wall 2017 protruding from the perimeter of the first base opening 2016. The base peripheral wall 2017, 2019 may include a second base peripheral wall 2019 protruding from the perimeter of the second base opening 2018. The base peripheral wall 2017, 2019 may define paths through which wires pass between the interiors of electrical equipment unit 380 and main housing 2000.

The drain hole 2015 may be a through hole formed in the main housing 2000. The drain hole 2015 may be formed in the lower portion of the main housing 2000. The drain hole 2015 may be formed in the housing base 2010. The drain hole 2015 may communicate with the inside and outside of the main housing 2000. For example, the drain hole 2015 may communicate the inside of the main housing 2000 with the inside of the case 10. The drain hole 2015 may be formed in the edge of the housing base 2010. There may be a plurality of drain holes 2015. Water in the main housing 2000 may be drained via the drain hole 2015, such as to a drain pipe 290 (see FIG. 13).

Referring to FIG. 13, the humidifying device 200 in certain implementations of humidifier 1 may include the main housing 2000, the supply pipe 210, the first valve 212, the heating water tank 230, a first connection pipe 240, a drain pipe 290, the humidifying water tank 260, and the compartment cover 270. The main housing 2000 may be disposed inside the case 10. The main housing 2000 may accommodate and cover the heating water tank 230 and the humidifying water tank 260. The upper side of the main housing 2000 may be open, such as to be coupled to main cover 2020 and/or middle tray 400.

As previously described, the supply pipe 210 may be a conduit through which water may be supplied to the humidifying device 200, such as from water tank 110. The supply pipe 210 may be connected to the humidifying device 200, such as to an upper end of the humidifying device. The water stored in the water tank 110 may be supplied to the humidifying device 200 through the supply pipe 210. For example, the water stored in the water tank 110 may be moved to the heating water tank 230 through the supply pipe 210. A supply chamber 2100 may be formed inside the supply pipe 210. The water flowing into the supply pipe 210 may pass through the supply chamber 2100 and flow into the heating tank 230. The water flowing into the supply pipe 210 may be temporarily stored in the supply chamber 2100 before passing to the heating tank 230.

The first valve 212 may control the flow of water supplied to the humidifying device 200 through the supply pipe 210. For example, when the first valve 212 is opened, water stored in the supply chamber 2100 may move to the heating water tank 230. Conversely, when the first valve 212 is closed, the supplied water may remain and may be temporarily stored in the supply chamber 2100. The first valve 212 may be opened and closed according to an electrical signal from the electrical equipment unit 380. The first valve 212 may receive power from the electrical equipment unit 380. For example, the first valve 212 may be a solenoid or other type of valve. The first valve 212 may be disposed above the heating water tank 230. The first valve 212 may be disposed in the supply pipe 210. For example, the first valve 212 may be disposed between the heating water tank 230 and the supply pipe 210. The first valve 212 may be spaced upward from the heating water tank 230. For example, the first valve 212 may be disposed to be spaced upward from the upper surface of the heating water tank 230.

The heating water tank 230 may be disposed inside the main housing 2000. The heating water tank 230 may heat water that flows in the heating water tank 230 through the supply pipe 210. The heating water tank 230 may sterilize and/or evaporate water by heating it. The water heated in the heating water tank 230 may flow into the humidifying water tank 260.

The first connection pipe 240 may be a pipe through which the sterilized water stored in the heating water tank 230 may flow into the humidifying water tank 260. The height of the first connection pipe 240 may decrease as it progresses downstream. For example, the first connection pipe 240 may be inclined downward toward the downstream side at or near the humidifying water 260. The first connection pipe 240 may be formed from a metal or other heat conductive material to have a relatively high thermal conductivity. The temperature of water heated in the heating water tank 230 may be lowered while flowing through the first connection pipe 240 due to the relatively high thermal conductivity of the first connection pipe 240.

The drain pipe 290 may be connected to the heating water tank 230. The drain pipe 290 may discharge residual water stored in the heating water tank 230. The residual water may be discharged to the outside of the case 10 through the drain pipe 290. An end of the drain pipe 290 may be connected to the lower portion of the heating water tank 230. For example, the drain pipe 290 may be connected to the bottom surface of the heating water tank 230.

The humidifying water tank 260 may generate humidified air by using supplied water, such as water from heating water tank 230. Humidified air may refer to air containing mist and/or water vapor. The humidifying water tank 260 may generate humidified air by using, for example, at least one of an ultrasonic method, a heating method, an evaporation method, a disk method, or other method for vaporizing water. For example, the humidifying water tank 260 may generate humidified air by atomizing supplied water by using an ultrasonic vibrator. The humidifying water tank 260 may be equipped with a vibration device 262 to atomize water.

The vibration device 262 may be disposed in the bottom surface or other region of the humidifying water tank 260. The vibration device 262 may vaporize the supplied water into fine particles by using ultrasonic vibration. The vibration device 262 may atomize supplied water. For example, the vibration device 262 may include a piezoelectric element that vibrates based on receiving electrical power from electrical equipment unit 380, and the vibrations may agitate the water into droplets.

The compartment cover 270 may be disposed above the main housing 2000. The compartment cover 270 may cover the upper side of the humidifying water tank 260. The compartment cover 270 may partition a flow path flowing into the humidifying water tank 260 and a flow path flowing out from the humidifying water tank 260. For example, the compartment cover 270 may include an air supply pipe 210 which is a flow path through which a portion of the rising airflow flowing through the blowing flow path 390 may flow into the humidifying water tank 260, and a discharge pipe 274 through which a portion of the rising airflow flowing into the humidifying water tank 260 and the mist stagnant in the humidifying water tank 260 are discharged together out of the humidifying water tank 260. The air supply pipe 210 may connect the blowing flow path 390 and the humidifying water tank 260. The portion of the rising airflow that is directed towards and enters the humidifying water tank 260 through the blowing flow path 390 may pull the mist generated in the humidifying water tank 260 out of the humidifying water tank 260. Through this interaction, the mist generated in the humidifying water tank 260 may be carried out by the air flow and discharged. The discharge pipe 274 may extend in the vertical direction. The discharge pipe 274 may form a discharge flow path 2740. A humid air outlet 2742 may be formed in one end of the discharge pipe 274. A lower portion of the discharge pipe 274 may be inserted into the humidifying water tank 260.

The humidifying device 200 may include a communication flow path 280 connecting the heating water tank 230 and the humidifying water tank 260. The communication flow path 280 may connect the upper portion of the heating water tank 230 and the upper portion of the humidifying water tank 260. In the heating water tank 230, water vapor may be generated in the process of heating the supplied water. The generated water vapor may flow into the humidifying water tank 260 through the communication flow path 280. The discharge pipe 274 may be open toward the communication flow path 280. The communication flow path 280 may be connected to the discharge flow path 2740. Water vapor that moved from the heating water tank 230 to the humidifying water tank 260 through the communication flow path 280 may be discharged through the discharge pipe 274. Through this connection, the humidified air may include water vapor generated in the heating water tank 230, the mist generated in the humidifying water tank 260, and the rising airflow formed by the blowing fan 350.

Referring to FIG. 13, the humidifier 1 in certain implementations may include a first (or lower) communication opening 2013 and a second (or upper communication opening 2122 that communicate with the internal space 5100 of the display housing 510. The first communication opening 2013 may be connected to the internal space 5100 of the display housing 510. The first communication opening 2013 may communicate the internal space 5100 of the display housing 510 with the internal space of the case 10. The internal space 5100 of the display housing 510 may be connected to the electrical equipment unit 380 through the first communication opening 2013. For example, a wire may electrically connect the electrical equipment unit 380 to the display substrate 520 and may extend through the first communication opening 2013. Through this electrical connection through the first communication opening 2013, the display 500 may receive power from the power supply device 384.

The first communication opening 2013 may be located outside of the humidifying device 200. The first communication opening 2013 may be defined between the humidifying device 200 and the display 500. The first communication opening 2013 may be defined between the display housing 510 and the main housing 2000. The housing recess 2012 may be spaced upward from the lower surface of the display housing 510. The first communication opening 2013 include be a separation gap between the housing recess 2012 and the lower surface of the display housing 510.

The second communication opening 2122 may be connected to the internal space 5100 of the display housing 510. The second communication opening 2122 may communicate the internal space 5100 of the display housing 510 with the internal space of the humidifying device 200. The humidifying device 200 may include an accommodation space 2120 in which the first valve 212 is disposed. The second communication opening 2122 may communicate the internal space 5100 of the display housing 510 with the accommodation space 2120 of the humidifying device 200. A wire may be connected to the first valve 212 through the second communication opening 2122. Through this, the first valve 212 may receive power from the power supply device 384.

The second communication opening 2122 may be defined in the outer wall of the humidifying device 200. The second communication opening 2122 may be adjacent to the first valve 212. The second communication opening 2122 may face the display substrate 520. The wire wired to the internal space 5100 of the display housing 510 through the first communication opening 2013 may be connected to the first valve 212 through the second communication opening 2122. The accommodation space 2120 may be defined between the main cover 2020 and the middle tray 400. The second communication opening 2122 may be a separation gap between the peripheral wall of the middle tray 400 and the peripheral wall of the main cover 2020.

Referring to FIG. 14, the power supply device 384 and the phase control device 386 may be disposed inside a control box 385, and the controller 388 may be disposed in the inner surface of the electrical equipment housing 382, in certain implementations of the humidifier 1. The electrical equipment housing 382 may include a seal recess 3828 in which the controller 388 is disposed. For example, controller 388 may be disposed in the seal recess 3828. The seal recess 3828 may protrude from the inner surface of the electrical equipment housing 382 in an outward direction. For example, the seal recess 3828 may be defined by recessing upward from the inner upper surface of the electrical equipment housing 382.

The controller 388 may be disposed upside down or disposed reversedly. For example, each of the power supply device 384, phase control device 386, and controller 388 may include a substrate, and a main surface of the substrate of the controller 388 may be disposed to face downward, and a rear surface of the substrate of the controller 388 may be disposed to face upward. As used herein, the main surfaces of the power supply device 384, phase control device 386, and controller 388 may refer to a surface on which electrical components may be disposed. Electrical components may include, for example, resistors, capacitors, inductors, switches, relays, sensors, etc.

The phase control device 386 may be disposed upside down or reversedly. For example, the main surface of a substrate of the phase control device 386 may be disposed to face downward, and the rear surface of the phase control device 386 may be disposed to face upward. For example, the phase control device 386 may be fixed to a box bracket 3857 so that the main surface of the phase control device 386 faces downward in that electrical components are coupled to a lower surface of the substrate of the phase control device 386 and an upper, rear surface of the phase control device 386 may be face the box bracket 3857.

The electrical equipment housing 382 may include a wire hole 3826 through which wire passes. The wire hole 3826 may be a through hole defined in the upper surface of the electrical equipment housing 382. The wire passing through the wire hole 3826 may connect the electrical equipment unit 380 and the display 500. In addition, the wire passing through the wire hole 3826 may connect the electrical equipment unit 380 and the humidifying device 200. For example, the wire passing through the wire hole 3826 may connect the controller 388 and the first valve 212 of the humidifying device 200.

The wire hole 3826 may be located below the housing recess 2012. The wire hole 3826 may be adjacent to the first communication opening 2013. The wire connected to the electrical equipment unit 380 may be connected to the display 500 through the wire hole 3826 and the first communication opening 2013. The wire connected to the electrical equipment unit 380 may be connected to the first valve through the first communication opening 2013 and the second communication opening 2122.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 14, a humidifier according to one aspect may include a humidifying device which generates humidified air; a display coupled to one side of the humidifying device, wherein the display includes: a display housing which is open toward the humidifying device; and a display substrate which is installed inside the display housing, wherein the humidifying device includes a coupling cover which extends in an outward direction, and covers the display housing. According to another aspect, the humidifying device may include a humidifying water tank which generates humidified air; a main housing which accommodates the humidifying water tank; and a middle tray which is coupled to an upper side of the main housing, wherein the display is fixed to the main housing and the middle tray.

According to another aspect, the coupling cover may include an upper cover which is formed on an outer surface of the middle tray, and covers an upper surface of the display housing. According to another aspect, the coupling cover may include a side cover which extends from the upper cover, and covers a side surface of the display housing.

According to another aspect, the display is coupled to a side surface of the humidifying device, wherein the humidifying device may include a supply pipe which is disposed on an upper surface and receives water; and a humid air outlet which is opened on an upper surface and discharges humidified air. According to another aspect, the humidifier may further include a molding member filled between the display substrate and the humidifying device.

According to another aspect, the humidifier may further include a case which accommodates the humidifying device and the display; and a water tank which is disposed above the humidifying device, and stores water, wherein the case includes: an outer shell which is spaced outward from the water tank; and an inner shell which is disposed inside the outer shell, and in which the water tank is accommodated therein, a first discharge flow path through which humidified air flows is formed between the inner shell and the water tank, wherein the display is disposed outside the inner shell. According to another aspect, the humidifier may further include a blowing fan which is disposed below the humidifying device and forms a rising airflow, wherein the case includes an outer case which extends downward from the outer shell, and in which the humidifying device and the blowing fan are disposed, wherein a blowing flow path is formed between the humidifying device and the outer case, wherein the display is disposed on the blowing flow path.

According to another aspect, the humidifier may further include an electrical equipment unit which is disposed below the humidifying device and supplies power, wherein the main housing includes a housing recess recessed upward from a lower surface, wherein the housing recess is located above a lower surface of the display housing, wherein a first communication opening is formed between the housing recess and the lower surface of the display housing. According to another aspect, the electrical equipment unit may include a power supply unit that supplies power; and an electrical equipment housing in which the power supply unit is accommodated, wherein the electrical equipment housing includes a wire hole which is located below the housing recess, and opened upward. According to another aspect, the humidifying device may include a first valve which controls an amount of water inflow; and an accommodation space in which the first valve is disposed, wherein the humidifying device has a second communication opening which is formed to communicate the accommodation space with an internal space of the display housing.

According to at least one of the embodiments, the coupling cover covers the gap formed between the display housing and the humidifying device, so that the amount of moisture infiltrating into the connection portion between the display and the humidifying device can be reduced. Thus, the risk of submerging or otherwise exposing the display to moisture can be reduced and the waterproof performance of the humidifier can be improved.

According to at least one of the embodiments, the humidifying device receives water from the upper side and discharges humidified air, and the display is provided on the side surface of the humidifying device, so that the display is spaced apart from the inflow and outflow paths of moisture, thereby reducing the risk of submerging or otherwise exposing the display to moisture. In addition, the waterproof performance of the humidifier can be improved.

According to at least one of the embodiments, the risk of submerging or otherwise exposing the display to moisture can be reduced by providing a molding member that covers the display substrate. According to at least one of the embodiments, the display is isolated from the discharge flow path, thereby reducing the risk of submerging or otherwise exposing the display to moisture.

According to at least one of the embodiments, the display may be disposed in a blowing flow path through which dry air flows, thereby drying the display when exposed to moisture. Thus, the risk of damaging the display due to moisture can be reduced, and the waterproof performance of the humidifier can be improved. According to at least one of the embodiments, the first communication opening where the electric wire is disposed is spaced apart from the flow path of the humidified air, so that risks exposing the humidifier to moisture and the risk related to electric leakage can be reduced.

Embodiments disclosed herein may provide a humidifier having improved durability. Embodiments disclosed herein may further provide a humidifier having improved waterproof performance. Embodiments disclosed herein may furthermore provide a humidifier having a reduced risk of flooding. Additionally, embodiments disclosed herein may provide a humidifier with a reduced risk of short circuit. Embodiments disclosed herein provide a humidifier having improved safety in use.

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a humidifier may include a molding member filled between the display substrate and the humidifying device, thereby protecting a display from moisture. The humidifier may further include a case which accommodates the humidifying device and the display; and a water tank which is disposed above the humidifying device, and stores water, wherein the case includes: an outer shell which is spaced outward from the water tank; and an inner shell which is disposed inside the outer shell, and in which the water tank is accommodated therein, wherein a first discharge flow path through which humidified air flows is formed between the inner shell and the water tank, and the display is disposed outside the inner shell, so that the display may be isolated from the discharge flow path through which humidified air flows.

The humidifier may further include a blowing fan which is disposed below the humidifying device and forms a rising airflow, the case includes an outer case which extends downward from the outer shell, and in which the humidifying device and the blowing fan are disposed, wherein a blowing flow path is formed between the humidifying device and the outer case, and the display is disposed on the blowing flow path, so that dry air flowing through the blowing flow path can pass through the display.

The humidifier may further include an electrical equipment unit which is disposed below the humidifying device and supplies power, the main housing includes a housing recess recessed upward from a lower surface, wherein the housing recess is located above a lower surface of the display housing, and a first communication opening is formed between the housing recess and the lower surface of the display housing, so that the first communication opening may be spaced apart from the flow path of humidified air.

The electrical equipment unit may include a power supply unit that supplies power; and an electrical equipment housing in which the power supply unit is accommodated, wherein the electrical equipment housing includes a wire hole which is located below the housing recess, and opened upward, so that the wire connected to the electrical equipment unit may be connected to the display through the wire hole.

The humidifying device may include a first valve which controls an amount of water inflow; and an accommodation space in which the first valve is disposed, wherein the humidifying device has a second communication opening which is formed to communicate the accommodation space with an internal space of the display housing, so that the wire may be connected to the first valve through the first communication opening and the second communication opening.

Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the invention described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments of the invention described above may be combined or combined with each other in configuration or function.

For example, a configuration “A” described in one embodiment of the invention and the drawings and a configuration “B” described in another embodiment of the invention and the drawings may be combined with each other. Namely, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except in the case where it is described that the combination is impossible.

Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on” another element or layer, the element or layer can be directly on another element or layer or intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

Spatially relative terms, such as “lower”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “lower” relative to other elements or features would then be oriented “upper” relative to the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “lower” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures). As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, embodiments should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Any reference in this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,” etc., means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of such phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with any embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the purview of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other ones of the embodiments.

Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

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Priority Claims (1)